Mad Monkey Siem Reap: Sunset Countryside Cycling Tour

Siem Reap’s countryside is a world away from the temple crowds, and Mad Monkey’s Sunset Countryside Cycling Tour offers a chance to see it up close. For just $18, you’ll spend around four hours exploring lush rice fields, watching a spectacular sunset, and savoring cold drinks and local snacks. The tour is guided, making it easy for anyone with basic biking skills to join, and it’s a delightful way to connect with Cambodia’s rural life.

We especially appreciate how this tour balances active outdoor fun with moments of relaxation, all set against the stunning backdrop of a sunset over lotus-filled waters. The chance to stop for photos along vibrant rice paddies is a highlight, and the final sunset view is truly breathtaking. One thing to consider: the tour starts in the early afternoon and covers about 27 km, so a reasonable level of fitness helps, although the route is fairly gentle.

This experience suits travelers who love outdoor adventures, cultural insights, and scenic photography. It’s especially ideal for those wanting a break from temples, with a relaxed pace and friendly guides. However, if you’re not comfortable cycling or have mobility issues, it might be less suitable.

Key Points

• Affordable and scenic: A four-hour bike tour through Siem Reap’s countryside for just $18.
• Cultural insights: Observing local farming life and rice fields offers a genuine glimpse of rural Cambodia.
• Beautiful sunsets: The highlight is watching the sunset over lotus ponds, with drinks and snacks to enjoy along the way.
• Guided experience: Led by English-speaking guides, making it easy to learn and stay safe.
• Great for photo lovers: Multiple stops for capturing vibrant rice paddies and rural scenes.
• Group size & timing: Usually on Monday and Friday, starting at 2:45 PM, with a total ride of about 27 km.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Sunset Countryside Cycling Tour

Starting with the basics, the tour begins at Mad Monkey Siem Reap hostel, where you meet your guide at 2:45 PM. For a modest price of $18, you get a mountain bike, helmet, water bottle, a local snack, and your choice of soft drink or beer during the ride. After the tour, you’re rewarded with two draft beers at the bar—an excellent way to unwind after your ride. The whole experience lasts about four hours, covering roughly 27 km, making it accessible for most reasonably fit travelers.

The ride itself kicks off around 3:00 PM, heading south into the scenic countryside. The route is designed to be enjoyable rather than strenuous, with plenty of stops to take photos and soak in the lush landscape. Along the way, you’ll pass through vibrant rice fields—some still green, others turning yellow—offering a visual feast of Cambodia’s agricultural life. Your guide will point out interesting sights, farmers working in the fields, and the natural beauty of lotus ponds that dot the landscape.

What we loved was the way the tour combines active movement with moments of calm and reflection. The stops for photos aren’t rushed, and the guides are knowledgeable, making sure you understand and appreciate the local customs and environment. We also enjoyed the way the water and snack breaks keep you refreshed without breaking the rhythm of the ride.

Reaching the sunset viewpoint around 4:30 PM, you’ll settle in to enjoy your drinks and snacks while taking in a view that’s hard to beat. The sunset here is truly spectacular, with hues that change from gold to deep orange, reflecting off lotus flowers and rice paddies. It’s a peaceful moment that stays with you long after.

As the ride concludes around 5:30 PM, you’ll head back to town, still captivated by the vivid colors and tranquil countryside. Upon returning, you can claim your two draft beers, making the experience feel complete and satisfying.

Potential drawbacks? A few reviewers mention the inconsistency in tour scheduling or cancellations, often due to low participation. One traveler noted, “they canceled the tour because there weren’t enough people,” which highlights the importance of confirming availability before planning your day. The route is mostly flat, but if you’re uncomfortable on a bike or have mobility challenges, this may not be the best fit.

Who this tour suits best? If you enjoy gentle cycling, authentic rural scenery, and sunset views, you’ll find it a real treat. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a relaxed outdoor activity that’s more about the experience than challenging terrain. It also appeals to those wanting to see Cambodia’s countryside beyond the temples, with the bonus of a social atmosphere and local snacks.

Breaking Down the Experience

The itinerary is straightforward but thoughtfully designed. Starting with a quick briefing, your guide explains what’s ahead and makes sure everyone is comfortable. The first stretch of the ride takes you through lively rural scenes—farms, farmers tending to their crops, children playing nearby, and fields brimming with rice.

Stops for photos and observations are frequent, allowing you to document the vibrant green and yellow paddies, the lotus flowers, and the simple life of the farmers. The guides’ local knowledge enriches these moments, offering insights into agricultural practices and local customs. We loved the way the guide pointed out a cluster of lotus flowers as the perfect frame for your camera.

The sunset view spot is a dedicated peaceful place where the group gathers to relax, chat, and share a drink. It’s a quiet, scenic area, far from the hustle of Siem Reap’s busy streets, giving you a chance to breathe and reflect on the day’s sights and sounds.

Back on the bikes, the return journey is equally pleasant, with the changing light creating a magical atmosphere. As the sun dips lower, the sky turns shades of pink and purple, making every photo a masterpiece. The tour wraps up at the hostel around 6:30 PM, leaving plenty of time afterward for dinner or exploring more of Siem Reap.

Value and Practical Tips

At only $18, the tour offers excellent value—covering transportation, guiding, snacks, drinks, and the sunset experience. We think it’s a smart choice for budget travelers wanting a richer connection to the local land and lifestyle.

Practical advice? Wear comfortable clothes suited for cycling, bring a sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, especially since much of the ride is exposed. A camera is essential for capturing the picturesque rice fields and lotus ponds. Also, confirm availability and start times beforehand, as cancellations can occur if there aren’t enough participants.

Safety and comfort are well considered, with helmets provided and a moderate pace that’s suitable for most riders. Still, if you’re not comfortable biking or have young children, check with the provider beforehand—they do restrict participation to those who can ride a bike comfortably.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cycling adventure is perfect for those craving an authentic view of rural Cambodia, away from temples and crowded streets. It suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, scenic views, and cultural insights, especially if you’re keen to photograph rice paddies and lotus ponds at sunset. It’s also a good option for groups, friends, or solo travelers who want a social, relaxed way to spend an afternoon.

However, if you’re looking for a physically demanding ride or traveling with children under 18, this may not be the best choice. Also, since the tour relies on good weather conditions, it’s worth checking the forecast, as rain could impact the experience.

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The Sum Up

The Mad Monkey Siem Reap: Sunset Countryside Cycling Tour provides a wonderfully accessible way to see Cambodia’s rural life. With its focus on scenic beauty, cultural glimpses, and a relaxing sunset finale, it offers good value for a modest price. The knowledgeable guides, sweeping views, and relaxed pace make it a standout activity for anyone wanting to break from temple-hopping and connect more deeply with Siem Reap’s countryside.

Whether you’re an avid photographer, a nature lover, or simply in search of a peaceful way to end your day, this tour hits the right notes. Just remember to book in advance, bring your camera and sun protection, and be prepared for a gentle ride that’s more about the experience than athleticism.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 18 as it requires riding a bike comfortably.

How long is the bike ride?
The entire route covers approximately 27 km and lasts about four hours, including stops and breaks.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a camera, and water are recommended for comfort and safety.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Since the tour is outdoors, bad weather like rain could lead to cancellations. It’s best to check the weather forecast and confirm booking details beforehand.

Can I join if I’m not an experienced cyclist?
The route is designed to be gentle and suitable for most riders, but basic cycling skills are needed. It’s best to assess your comfort level.

What’s included in the price?
You get a mountain bike, helmet, water bottle, local snack, soft drink or beer during the ride, and two draft beers at the bar after the tour.

How do I confirm availability?
Since the tour runs on specific days (Monday and Friday), confirm your preferred date and start time in advance to avoid surprises.

This cycling tour offers a peaceful, scenic, and culturally rich escape from the busy streets of Siem Reap. It’s a simple yet memorable way to see Cambodia’s countryside, watch a stunning sunset, and enjoy a cold drink—an experience worth considering for your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: