Siem Reap’s Elevated Experience: Angkor Stunning Hot Air Balloon

Imagine drifting quietly above the ancient temples of Cambodia, capturing unbelievable views of Bakong Temple, lush rice fields, and charming villages. For around $216, you can enjoy a 30-minute hot air balloon ride that promises an exhilarating perspective on some of the area’s most iconic sights. Whether you opt for the early morning sunrise or the beautiful evening sunset, this experience offers a unique way to see Siem Reap from a whole new angle.

What we like most about this tour is the bird’s eye view of the stunning Khmer architecture and the countryside’s patchwork of green. The calmness of floating high above the landscape makes it a peaceful yet exciting experience. Plus, the included round-trip transportation from your hotel saves you the hassle of logistics, allowing you to focus solely on enjoying the ride.

One challenge worth considering is the sensitivity to weather. Several reviews mention cancellations due to wind or other weather conditions, which means you should keep your schedule flexible and be prepared for possible rescheduling. Still, the chance to soar over the temples at dawn or dusk makes this a top pick for travelers craving authentic, memorable views.

This experience suits those who appreciate aerial views of historical sites, are comfortable with early mornings or late afternoons, and want a special story to tell about Cambodia. Ideal for photography lovers, history buffs, or anyone seeking a peaceful yet exhilarating adventure above a UNESCO World Heritage site.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Stunning Views: Offers panoramic perspectives of Bakong Temple and the Cambodian countryside.
Flexible Timing: Operates twice daily at sunrise and sunset, fitting easily into most travel plans.
Inclusive Transport: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple.
Capacity & Comfort: Can accommodate 18-25 passengers, providing a semi-private, social experience.
Weather Dependence: Cancellations are possible if conditions are unsafe, so keep plans flexible.
Authentic Experience: Provides a peaceful, scenic view that’s hard to match with other activities.

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An In-Depth Look at the Hot Air Balloon Adventure in Siem Reap

The Experience and Its Highlights

Flying in a hot air balloon over Bakong Temple and the surrounding temples is a chance to see Cambodia from a perspective few get to enjoy. As you float upwards, you’ll notice the intricate layout of Preh Ko and Lolei Temple, nestled amidst vast rice paddies and quaint villages. The panoramic vistas stretch far, giving you a sense of the scale and beauty of this UNESCO site.

Unlike crowded bus tours or early-morning temple visits, this balloon ride offers a tranquil, almost meditative experience. The view at sunrise is often praised for its vibrant light, casting a soft glow on the ancient stones and verdant landscape. Several travelers have shared how they loved witnessing the Cambodian scenery as the sun rose, offering a peaceful start to the day. One traveler even said, “I enjoyed the Cambodian scenery as the sun rose,” capturing that special magic.

The sunset flights are equally captivating, with the sky often painted in warm hues. Both times of day provide different atmospheres: the morning’s freshness versus the evening’s calmness. Plus, seeing the temples from above adds a new layer of appreciation for their grandeur and the natural beauty surrounding them.

Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Siem Reap, ensuring a hassle-free start. The transfer is comfortable, usually in a car or minivan, with an English-speaking driver guiding the way. The ride to the launch site is straightforward, and the experience is designed to get you to the balloon for your preferred time—either around 6:20-6:30 am for sunrise or around 5:30-5:40 pm for sunset.

Once at the launch site, you’ll likely have some time to watch the balloons being prepared before your flight. The actual 30-minute flight offers ample time to enjoy the panoramic views and take plenty of photos. Since the balloon can carry up to 25 passengers, it’s a comfortably sized group, allowing everyone good vantage points.

After landing, the tour concludes with a return trip back to your hotel, completing a smooth, well-organized experience. The round-trip transportation is included, removing the stress of navigating Siem Reap traffic or finding a taxi.

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What Makes It Special?

What elevates this tour from a simple sightseeing activity is its authenticity and exclusivity. Floating above Bakong Temple—an often overlooked yet impressive site—delivers a perspective that grabs your attention and stays with you long after landing. The calm of the balloon ride contrasts nicely with the often bustling temple tours.

A quoted traveler noted, “It was all exciting and fun,” emphasizing the pure joy of the experience. The aerial views provide a new appreciation for Cambodia’s history, blending natural beauty with ancient architecture.

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The Practicalities: Price, Duration, and Booking

While $216 per person might seem steep compared to other activities, the value comes with the spectacular views and the peaceful, memorable experience. The 30-minute flight is a reasonable duration—long enough to enjoy the scenery without feeling overstretched—and includes hotel pickup and drop-off.

Booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak tourist seasons. The tour operates twice daily, but weather can impact schedules, so flexibility is essential. The cancellation policy allows you to cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund, which offers peace of mind.

Considering the Weather and Cancellation Policies

A notable downside is the weather dependency. Reviewers have experienced cancellations due to wind or other weather conditions, which is common for balloon rides worldwide. One traveler expressed disappointment over a missed flight due to wind, noting a lack of immediate communication and slow responses from the operator. It’s wise to stay flexible with your plans and be prepared for possible rescheduling.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for photography enthusiasts, history lovers, and travelers who enjoy peaceful, scenic experiences. It suits early risers and those who want a special story about their trip. If you’re after a unique, panoramic view of Cambodia’s iconic temples and countryside, this is a memorable choice. However, if weather conditions are unfavorable, patience and flexibility will be your best friends.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For anyone seeking a peaceful yet exhilarating way to see Siem Reap’s ancient landscape, the hot air balloon ride offers something truly special. The views from above are breathtaking, and the experience provides a sense of calm and awe that’s hard to match with other tours. It’s a great value for those who appreciate authentic perspectives and photo-worthy moments.

However, travelers should be aware of the weather dependency and potential cancellations, so flexibility and patience are essential. If you’re prepared for a serene flight over historic temples and lush countryside, this tour will deliver memorable moments and stunning visuals. It’s best suited for those who want more than just a ground-level experience and are comfortable with early mornings or late afternoons.

In the end, this balloon ride isn’t just about the views—it’s about connecting with the landscape in a peaceful, unhurried way. For a memorable highlight of your Cambodia trip, it’s certainly worth considering.

FAQ

How long is the hot air balloon flight?
The flight lasts approximately 30 minutes.

What are the operating times for the rides?
Flights are available twice daily: at sunrise (around 6:20-6:30 am) and sunset (around 5:30-5:40 pm).

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making the experience easy to arrange.

What is the maximum group size?
The balloon can accommodate up to 25 passengers, providing a relatively intimate group experience.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the operator can cancel due to wind or weather conditions. You can reschedule or get a full refund if canceled for safety reasons.

What should I wear or bring?
Dress comfortably, in layers if possible, as mornings and evenings can be cool. Bring a camera or smartphone for photos.

Are there any weight restrictions?
Passengers weighing over 110 kg will be charged double the fare.

Whether you’re after a unique perspective on Cambodia’s temples or simply want a peaceful, photo-ready adventure, the Angkor Stunning Hot Air Balloon offers a memorable way to elevate your Siem Reap experience. Just remember, patience with weather and flexible plans will make your flight all the more enjoyable.

You can check availability for your dates here: