- Day 1: Siem Reap Arrival (D)
Upon your arrival at the REP Airport in Siem Reap for Cycling Cambodia, you’ll be greeted with a warm welcome. A short transfer will take you to your hotel in the center of Siem Reap, where you can take the time to soak in your first impressions of the country. Later, our guide will accompany you to a premier restaurant for a delightful welcome dinner. Overnight stay at a 4-star hotel in Siem Reap.
The transfer from the airport to the hotel and the welcome dinner are included in your package, providing you with a seamless start to your Cambodian adventure.
- Day 2: Siem Reap, Angkor Complex (B, L, D/Cycling 35km+)
Today, we’ll make a short drive to Angkor Wat, where we’ll collect our bikes that we’ll be using for the remainder of the trip. We’ll then set off to explore several of the ancient temple cities by bike.
Our first stop will be the impressive Ta Prohm Temple, where the ancient structures remain in the clutches of the encroaching jungle. After spending time at this unique and captivating site, we’ll pedal along small, hidden trails to the ruins at Phimeanakas, the Elephant Terraces, the Bayon, Baphoun, and Preah Khan.
In the afternoon, we’ll visit the magnificent Angkor Wat, marveling at its extraordinary architecture and intricate bas-reliefs. At the end of the day, we’ll cycle back to our hotel. The total cycling distance for today is approximately 35 kilometers, with 80% of the riding being off-road but not technically challenging.
The package includes a comfortable air-conditioned support van, mountain bikes with helmets, biking guides, an Angkor ticket for 3 days, and refreshments along the way.
- Day 3: Banteay Srei & Lingas (43 km cycling) (B, L/Cycling 43 km+)
Today, we’ll leave the crowds behind and embark on a cycle ride to the small village of Rolous, where we’ll visit the temples before continuing on to a local market. After a rest and time to explore the stalls, we’ll take a boat to the floating village of Kompong Phluk.
The ride through rural Cambodia offers ample opportunities to connect with local people. Kompong Phluk is a fascinating village built on stilts in Tonle Sap Lake, where the residents live a communal lifestyle. You’ll see everything from floating pig pens to young children paddling around in what looks like a bowl, selling souvenirs and singing songs.
After the boat trip, we’ll enjoy a home-hosted lunch where we can ask questions and learn about local cuisine and everyday life. In the afternoon, we’ll take a bus to visit Banteay Srey, where we’ll collect our bikes again and cycle 25 kilometers to either East Mebon to watch the sunset, before cycling or driving back to Siem Reap. Our total cycling distance today is approximately 56 kilometers.
The package includes a comfortable air-conditioned support van, mountain bikes with helmets, biking guides, an Angkor ticket, and refreshments along the way.
- Day 4: Siem Reap – Kampong Thom (B, L, D/Cycling 55 km+)
After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, you’ll embark on a long bike ride through the villages of Kampong Thom. Explore local life on dirt tracks, through villages, and charming temples, where you may witness the intriguing traditional wedding ceremonies of the local people, with many stops to interact with locals and their temples.
After lunch, we’ll get in the vehicle and head to the hotel, arriving there in the late afternoon. Overnight in Kampong Thom!
The package includes an English-speaking cycling tour guide, transportation to carry the bikes and transfer our riders, mountain bikes with helmets, ferry and entrance fees, a 3-star hotel (Kampong Thom Royal Hotel or similar), and refreshments.
- Day 5: Kampong Thom to Phnom Penh (B, L/Cycling 60 km+)
Today, we’ll have a long drive of about 3 hours in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle to the ferry crossing to Tonle Sap’s island. The vast, beautiful countryside will be open for your cycling challenge. We’ll tailor your 35km ride over the silk-worm village, including a visit to a local farm and a chance to taste tropical fruits. This is a good opportunity for you to purchase some nice little presents for your family and friends back home.
In the afternoon, we’ll leave the bustling city of Phnom Penh to take a motorized boat for about 2 hours on the Tonle Sap River, which will provide you with a picturesque view of the Royal Palace and the skyline of Phnom Penh. Leisurely enjoy the relaxing sunset until our team picks you up for dinner and a chance to discover the city on your own for one more night.
The package includes an English-speaking cycling tour guide, transportation to carry the bikes and transfer our riders, mountain bikes with helmets, refreshments, ferry and entrance fees, and a 4-star hotel (Ohana Hotel).
- Day 6: Phnom Penh City (B/Rest day)
Today is a free day in Phnom Penh, allowing you to explore the city at your own pace or follow the suggested highlights. Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your 4-star hotel, the Ohana Hotel.
One of the must-visit sites in Phnom Penh is Wat Phnom, a Buddhist temple situated on a hill overlooking the city. Climb the 72 steps to the top of the hill and take in the panoramic views of the surrounding area. The temple complex is an important religious and cultural landmark, housing various statues and shrines that are significant to Cambodian Buddhism.
Next, venture to the majestic Royal Palace, the official residence of the King of Cambodia. Admire the intricate Khmer architecture and the stunning gardens that surround the palace. Don’t miss the dazzling Silver Pagoda, located within the palace grounds, which features a floor covered in over 5,000 silver tiles.
Afterward, visit the National Museum, which houses an impressive collection of Khmer art and artifacts, including ancient sculptures, ceramics, and religious objects. Spend time exploring the museum’s galleries and learning about Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage.
As you explore Phnom Penh, take the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the bustling markets, trying traditional Cambodian cuisine, or simply wandering the lively streets. This free day allows you to create your own memorable experiences in the capital city.
- Day 7: Phnom Penh to Krong Takaeo (B, L, D/Cycling 60 km+)
Today, you’ll embark on a cycling adventure from Phnom Penh to Krong Takaeo, covering approximately 60 kilometers. After breakfast at your hotel, you’ll be provided with a sturdy mountain bike (Trek, Cannondale, or GT) and a helmet, ensuring a comfortable and safe ride.
Your first stop will be Tonle Bati, a picturesque lake area where you’ll enjoy a local lunch. From there, you’ll head to Phnom Chiso, a hillside temple that can be reached via a 180-step climb. The stunning views from the summit overlooking the surrounding countryside will make the effort well worth it.
Throughout the ride, you’ll be accompanied by a knowledgeable biking guide who will provide support and assistance as needed. Snacks, local fruits, and ample drinking water will be provided to keep you fueled and hydrated during the journey.
At the end of the day, you’ll arrive at Daunkeo Guesthouse in Takaeo, where you’ll spend the night. A private air-conditioned vehicle will be available for your transfer to and from the biking loops, ensuring a seamless and comfortable experience.
- Day 8: Takaeo to Krong Kaeb (B, L, D/Cycling 52 km+)
After breakfast, you’ll be transferred by private air-conditioned vehicle from Takaeo to the gate of Kabas, where you’ll begin your cycling adventure for the day. The first stop will be the charming Khmer town of Angkor Borei, a historic site known for its ancient temples and ruins.
From Angkor Borei, you’ll continue cycling to Phnom Da, a hilltop temple that offers a peaceful and serene setting for relaxation. After exploring the temple, you’ll ride onwards to Krong Kaeb, your final destination for the day.
Once again, you’ll be equipped with a high-quality mountain bike (Trek, Cannondale, or GT) and a helmet, and your biking guide will accompany you throughout the journey. Snacks, local fruits, and ample drinking water will be provided to keep you fueled and hydrated.
At the end of the day, you’ll arrive at Atmaland Resort, a 3-star resort in Krong Kaeb, where you’ll have the opportunity to rest and recharge.
- Day 9: Kaeb – Krong Kampot 35km cycling (B, L/Cycling 35 km+)
This morning, you’ll depart Kaeb and head towards the limestone caves of Phnom Sia. After exploring the caves, you’ll continue cycling until you reach the seaside town of Kep.
In Kep, you’ll have the chance to take a boat trip to the beautiful Rabbit Island, where you can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and simply relaxing on the beach. The island’s tranquil setting and clear waters provide the perfect opportunity to unwind and soak up the sun.
After your time on Rabbit Island, you’ll return to Kampot, where you’ll spend the night at the Kampot Sweet Boutique, a 4-star hotel.
As with the previous days, you’ll be provided with a mountain bike (Trek, Cannondale, or GT) and a helmet, and your biking guide will be there to support you throughout the ride. Snacks, local fruits, and ample drinking water will be available to keep you energized.
- Day 10: Kampot to Bokor to Sihanoukville (B, L/Cycling 40 km)
Today, you’ll embark on a scenic drive through the Bokor National Park, where you’ll have the opportunity to explore the abandoned hill station. This historical site, with its crumbling colonial buildings and serene natural surroundings, offers a unique glimpse into Cambodia’s past.
After your visit to Bokor, you’ll stop for lunch at the PoPokVil waterfalls, where you can enjoy a refreshing break and soak in the natural beauty of the area.
Following your lunch, you’ll have a relaxing cycle to Veal Rihn, taking in the picturesque countryside along the way. At the end of the day, you’ll arrive in the quiet beach resort town of Sihanoukville, where you’ll spend the night at the La Vogue Boutique Hotel, a 4-star property.
Throughout the day, your private air-conditioned vehicle will be available for any necessary transfers, and your biking guide will be on hand to assist you. You’ll also be provided with a mountain bike (Trek, Cannondale, or GT), a helmet, and snacks, local fruits, and drinking water to make your cycling experience comfortable and enjoyable.
As you reflect on your journey, you’ll have the opportunity to appreciate the diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unique experiences that this region of Cambodia has to offer. From the bustling capital of Phnom Penh to the serene coastal towns, each day has provided a new adventure and a deeper understanding of this fascinating country.
- Day 11: Sihanouk Ville – Ream – Sihanouk Ville (B, L/Cycling 56km+)
On the eleventh day of our journey, we’ll embark on an exhilarating cycling adventure to the Ream Maritime National Park, a true gem of Cambodia’s natural wonders. This picturesque destination is known for its lush mangrove forests, vibrant offshore coral reefs, and charming fishing villages.
We’ll start our day by hopping on our bikes and pedaling through the scenic landscape, taking in the breathtaking views along the way. As we make our way to the Ream National Park, we’ll have the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the local culture and way of life.
Once we reach the park, we’ll take some time to explore the jungles and mangrove swamps by boat, marveling at the diverse array of flora and fauna that call this place home. We’ll have the chance to visit a traditional fishing village, where we can observe the daily routines of the local fishermen and learn about their sustainable practices.
After our exploration of the village, we’ll have the opportunity to venture out to a nearby tropical island, where we can relax on the pristine beaches and soak up the sun. This idyllic setting is the perfect place to recharge and take in the natural beauty that surrounds us.
As the day draws to a close, we’ll boat back to the port and cycle back to Sihanoukville, our base for the day. Throughout the journey, we’ll be supported by a private air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience.
Our biking guide will be with us every step of the way, providing expert knowledge and assistance to ensure we make the most of our adventure. We’ll also have access to high-quality bikes from brands like Trek, Cannondale, and GT, as well as helmets to keep us safe on the roads.
To fuel our journey, we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch and indulge in refreshing snacks and local fruits. We’ll also have access to drinking water to keep us hydrated throughout the day.
At the end of our cycling adventure, we’ll return to our accommodation, the La Vogue Boutique Hotel in Sihanoukville, where we can rest and recharge in the comfort of our 4-star surroundings.
- Day 12: Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh Departure (B)
On the final day of our trip, we’ll savor one last breakfast at the hotel before saying goodbye to the stunning beaches of Sihanoukville. We’ll have some time to enjoy a leisurely swim and a peaceful stroll along the calm shoreline, taking in the serene atmosphere one last time.
When it’s time to depart, we’ll be transported to the Phnom Penh Airport by a private air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free journey. Our guide will be with us throughout the transfer, providing any necessary assistance and answering any final questions we may have.
As we bid farewell to Cambodia, we’ll carry with us the memories of our incredible adventure, the breathtaking natural landscapes we’ve explored, and the warm hospitality of the Cambodian people. This journey has been a true testament to the beauty and richness of this remarkable country, and we’ll leave with a renewed appreciation for the wonders of Southeast Asia.
Throughout our Cycling Cambodia Holiday! we’ve been supported by a dedicated team of professionals, from our knowledgeable biking guide to the driver of our private air-conditioned vehicle. Their attention to detail and commitment to ensuring our comfort and safety have been invaluable, making this an unforgettable experience.
From the moment we set out on our cycling adventure to the final transfer to the airport, every aspect of our journey has been meticulously planned and executed, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the beauty and culture of Cambodia. The inclusion of various amenities, such as high-quality bikes, helmets, snacks, and drinking water, has further enhanced our experience, making it a truly seamless and enjoyable journey.
As we prepare to depart, we’ll take a moment to reflect on the incredible sights we’ve witnessed, the connections we’ve made, and the memories we’ve created. This trip has been a testament to the power of exploration, the richness of cultural exchange, and the transformative power of travel.
We’re grateful for the opportunity to have experienced the wonders of Cycling Cambodia, and we’ll carry the lessons and insights we’ve gained with us as we continue on our journeys, both near and far. The Ream Maritime National Park, with its lush mangrove forests, vibrant coral reefs, and charming fishing villages, has left an indelible mark on our hearts and minds, and we know that we’ll always treasure the time we spent there.
As we board our flights and bid farewell to this remarkable country, we’ll do so with a renewed sense of wonder and a deep appreciation for the natural and cultural riches that Cambodia has to offer. This has been a truly unforgettable experience, and we know that the memories we’ve made will continue to inspire and motivate us long after we’ve returned home.