Siem Reap: 8-Hour Forgotten Treasures Motorbike Tour

Imagine zipping through Cambodia’s countryside on a sturdy motorbike, surrounded by rice paddies and traditional villages, with the breeze in your face and a guide sharing stories of rural life. This 8-hour Forgotten Treasures Motorbike Tour offers just that—a chance to explore parts of Siem Reap’s outskirts that most travelers never see, all for $78 per person. Led by knowledgeable guides, this adventure combines scenic beauty, cultural insight, and a touch of history.

What we love about this tour is how it takes you off the beaten path to remote temples like Beng Mealea and Chau Srei Vibol, far from the crowds of Angkor Wat. Plus, the inclusion of a rustic local lunch provides a genuine taste of Cambodian cuisine and hospitality. On the flip side, if you’re not comfortable riding a motorbike or have limited experience, this might be a bit more challenging. Still, the tour’s emphasis on safety and guidance makes it accessible for adventurous travelers eager to experience Cambodia beyond the usual highlights.

This experience is perfect for those who crave authenticity, enjoy a bit of adventure, and want a deeper connection with Cambodia’s countryside. If you’re curious about rural life, ancient temples that aren’t overrun by travelers, and scenic landscapes best seen from a motorbike seat, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Authentic rural experience with visits to remote villages and hidden temples
• All-inclusive price covers transportation, guide, lunch, and safety gear
• Limited group size (max 6) ensures a personalized experience
• Suitable for adventurous travelers comfortable with motorbike riding
• Includes historical sites like Beng Mealea and Chau Srei Vibol
• Flexible cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Forgotten Treasures Tour

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $78, you get hotel pick-up and drop-off, motorbike with helmet and fuel, a guide, and a local lunch. The only extra is the entry ticket to Beng Mealea, which you’ll need to bring along—the multi-day Angkor pass covers this, so plan accordingly. The tour’s all about giving you a seamless experience with minimal fuss, so you can focus on the scenery and culture rather than logistics.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Your day begins with a hotel pick-up at 8:30 am, followed by a brief motorbike training session. Even if you’re new to riding, the guides are attentive—one reviewer noted that Scott was “patient” and “ensured your safety like a friend.” Soon, you’re weaving through rice paddies and traditional villages, where you’ll see how Cambodians live and work. This is a big plus: fewer travelers venture here, making the experience feel authentic and personal.

Next, the journey takes you to the remote temple of Beng Mealea. This sprawling ruin, partially overgrown and mysterious, offers the chance to wander among ancient stones largely untouched by commercial tourism. It’s a place that feels like stepping back in time, and without the usual crowds, you can truly savor the atmosphere.

After exploring, you’ll stop at a local restaurant in the countryside. Expect rustic Cambodian fare—think fresh vegetables, rice, and perhaps some grilled meats. Reviewers have appreciated this stop, as it adds an authentic touch to the day; “a chance to cool down with some cold drinks and enjoy the rural life,” as one said.

Back on your bike, you’ll visit the temple of Chau Srei Vibol, an enigmatic site believed to have been a war temple. With its quiet, contemplative ambiance, it offers a peaceful contrast to the more famous Angkor sites. The journey also crosses the original bridge of the old Angkor road, an ancient structure dating back around 1,000 years, providing a tangible link to Cambodia’s history.

Scenic Highlights and Cultural Insights

The route goes beyond just sightseeing. Along the way, your guide will share stories about rural Cambodian life and explain how these landscapes and sites relate to the country’s history. The opportunity to relax at the sandy river bank adds a restful pause before heading back to Siem Reap.

More Great Tours Nearby

Authentic Experience Versus Practicality

The tour’s reviews highlight how it’s suited for those with an appetite for adventure. One reviewer noted, “It’s only suited for those who have an appetite for adventure… Scott was patient and attentive.” This suggests that some motorbike experience is helpful, but the guides go out of their way to ensure safety.

A thoughtful point from a reviewer was the expectation of guiding inside the temples, which isn’t included. If you’re hoping to have a guide accompany you into each site, this tour might not fully meet that expectation. Still, the focus on the surrounding countryside is a strength.

Pricing and Value

At $78, this tour offers a well-rounded package—it’s more than just transport; it’s a full-day immersion. The chance to visit remote temples and villages for a reasonable price makes it appealing, especially compared to standard tours that focus solely on Angkor Wat. The small group size adds a personal touch, making conversation and safety easier to manage.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re comfortable on a motorbike and eager to see Cambodia’s less-visited areas, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially appealing if you’re interested in rural culture and historic sites that aren’t swamped with travelers. However, if you’re nervous about riding or have limited experience, you might want to practice beforehand or consider a different experience.

The Sum Up

This Forgotten Treasures Motorbike Tour delivers a genuinely authentic glimpse into Cambodia’s countryside, combining scenic beauty, historical ruins, and local culture into one memorable day. It’s a wonderful way to step away from the crowds of Angkor Wat and experience the quieter, more personal side of Siem Reap.

For travelers who love a bit of adventure, are comfortable on a motorbike, and want to connect with rural life, this tour offers excellent value. It’s especially perfect for those who want to see hidden temples like Beng Mealea, and enjoy a rustic, roadside lunch in a peaceful setting.

That said, it’s best suited for those with some confidence in riding a motorbike—though the guides are attentive and safety is a priority. If you’re seeking a relaxed, fully guided temple visit without the riding component, other options might suit better.

Overall, this tour provides a rare chance to explore Cambodia’s remote treasures in a relaxed, friendly environment. It’s a wonderful blend of adventure, history, and culture—experience it if you’re ready to see more than just the famous temples.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
It’s designed for those comfortable with riding a motorbike, but guides are attentive and provide training, so beginners with some confidence should be fine.

What should I bring?
Bring your multi-day Angkor ticket, comfortable clothes, sunscreen, and a hat. It’s a good idea to carry some water and a camera to capture the scenic views.

Are helmets provided?
Yes, helmets are included in the package for your safety during the ride.

How long is the ride between stops?
The tour is structured for 8 hours, with a mix of riding, exploring, and resting, but the exact duration between stops varies depending on traffic and pace.

Can I join if I have limited motorbike experience?
While some experience is recommended, the guides are patient and will accommodate riders who are cautious—just communicate your comfort level beforehand.

Is there a dress code for visiting temples?
It’s respectful to wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees, especially when entering temples.

What about food allergies or dietary restrictions?
The included lunch is a local rustic meal. If you have specific dietary needs, it’s best to inform the guide in advance.

Is this tour family-friendly?
It’s best suited for adventurous travelers or those comfortable on a motorbike, so families with young children or those nervous about riding may find it less suitable.

How do I book the tour?
You can reserve via GetYourGuide or through the provider directly, with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

What’s the best time of year to do this tour?
Dry season (November to April) offers the best weather for riding and exploring outdoors.

This motorbike tour offers a genuine taste of Cambodia’s countryside, perfect for those seeking adventure and authenticity beyond the usual tourist spots. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or eager to try something different, it’s an experience that’s likely to stay with you long after you leave Siem Reap.

You can check availability for your dates here: