Angkor Wat Bike Tour with Lunch Included

Exploring Angkor’s legendary temples is a must-do when visiting Siem Reap, and doing it on a bike adds a unique, rewarding twist. The Angkor Wat Bike Tour offers an 8-hour adventure that combines cultural insights, stunning sights, and a healthy dose of physical activity—all for just $55. With small group sizes, a private option, and excellent reviews, this tour promises an authentic and engaging experience.

Our review highlights what makes this tour stand out, such as the expert guidance and carefully curated stops, but also points out some considerations to help you decide if it’s the right fit. Whether you’re a history buff, a cycling enthusiast, or simply eager to see Angkor from a different perspective, this experience might be just what you’ve been seeking.

What we love most about this tour is the way it balances active exploration with culture. Plus, the inclusion of lunch at a local restaurant adds a delicious touch of Khmer cuisine to the day. A potential challenge? The tour involves some riding, so if you’re not comfortable on a bike, it’s worth considering the physical aspect beforehand.

This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy active sightseeing and want an intimate, less crowded way to experience Angkor’s highlights. It’s perfect for those looking to avoid large, noisy bus groups and instead prefer a more personal journey through Cambodia’s awe-inspiring temples.

Key Points

• Small Group Experience: Intimate groups of 2 to 7 travelers enhance the personal touch.
• Expert Local Guides: Knowledgeable guides enrich the visit with stories and context.
• Active Exploration: Cycling allows for a flexible, close-up view of temples and surroundings.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Visits include Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple, Ta Nei Temple, and Ta Prohm.
• Inclusive Comforts: Hotel pickup, transportation, bottled water, and lunch are all included.
• Affordable Value: At $55, it’s a budget-friendly way to see multiple sites with guided commentary.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Booking and Planning

This tour is popular, with bookings typically made two weeks in advance, reflecting its appeal. The price of $55 per person covers most essentials, but note that Temple Passes are not included—these must be purchased separately. The tour starts at 8:30 am, with pickup from your hotel around 7:30 am, giving you ample time to start your day early and beat the heat and crowds.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour features modern giant bikes, which are comfortable for long rides, and transportation is provided for the transfer to and from the temples. Group sizes are kept small, with a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience—our source notes that one reviewer appreciated the “great experience biking with the local guide,” adding that the group felt more like a friendly outing than a large tour.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The day begins with a visit to Angkor Wat, the most iconic and largest religious monument in the world. The guide will help you appreciate the Khmer art and architecture that reached its zenith in the 12th century. Be prepared for a 2-hour exploration, and keep in mind that admission tickets are not included, so you’ll need to purchase your pass beforehand.

Next, you’ll ride to Bayon Temple, famous for its multitude of stone faces and as the former site of Mahayana Buddhist worship under King Jayavarman VII. The guide provides insights into the symbolism of the faces and the history behind this impressive site. This stop lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, with no included tickets, so plan accordingly.

Then, the route takes you to Ta Nei Temple—a lesser-visited, jungle-covered ruin that feels like stepping back in time. It’s a quieter, more relaxed spot to soak in the atmosphere and enjoy some fresh local fruits, making it a perfect moment to slow down and appreciate the surroundings.

The final stop is Ta Prohm, famously left as it was discovered, with giant kapok trees entwined with the ruins. This site has an eerie, mystical vibe—think “Tomb Raider”—and is a highlight for many travelers. You’ll spend about an hour here, taking in the majestic roots and weathered stones.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s inclusions are genuinely valuable: an English-speaking guide, bottled water, modern bikes, hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, and a lunch at a local restaurant. The lunch is a pleasant surprise, with many reviewers noting the quality and authenticity of the Khmer food served.

Exclusions include temple admission passes—which are an essential expense to consider—and personal expenses, tips, and breakfast. It’s worth budgeting around $37 for a standard 3-day pass, which is a worthwhile investment to access all sites.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views. One reviewer, Rodney_D, called it “Backroad Cycling through Angkor Wat doesn’t get any better than this,” highlighting the joy of exploring on a bicycle rather than by bus. Others appreciated the chance to learn about the temples’ history and architecture from someone who “knew the stories behind each stone,” making the experience more meaningful.

Many also loved the delicious local lunch, describing it as a highlight of the day. The small group size and personalized approach mean you’re not rushed, and there’s room for questions and spontaneous stops.

Physical and Practical Considerations

While most travelers found the cycling manageable, it’s important to be comfortable on a bike for about 8 hours, with some uphill sections and uneven terrain. The tour is suitable for most ages and fitness levels but check your comfort level with biking for extended periods.

Timing-wise, the early start allows you to enjoy cooler temperatures and avoid the biggest crowds, enhancing the overall experience. The tour concludes in the afternoon, leaving plenty of time to relax or explore more of Siem Reap afterward.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This tour appeals most to active travelers who love cycling and want to combine physical activity with cultural discovery. It’s also well-suited for those who appreciate small-group tours with expert guides, ensuring a more intimate and educational experience. If you’re on a budget but want to see multiple temples with a local touch, this offers excellent value.

However, it’s less suited for travelers who prefer a more relaxed, seated tour or are uncomfortable on a bike for long periods. Also, remember that temple tickets are not included, so budget that additional cost into your planning.

The Sum Up

The Angkor Wat Bike Tour with Lunch offers a compelling mix of adventure, culture, and comfort, all at a reasonable price point. You’ll get to see the main highlights like Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Ta Prohm in a way that feels genuine and personal—away from the crowds and noise of larger tours. The knowledgeable guides, fresh local lunch, and scenic routes make it an engaging way to experience the Khmer temples.

Ideal for active explorers, history enthusiasts, and those who want a more authentic, less commercialized visit, this tour delivers value and memorable moments. Just ensure you’re comfortable on a bike, account for the temple pass, and you’re set for a fantastic day of discovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to buy a temple pass separately?
Yes, the tour price does not include the temple passes, so you’ll need to purchase your own in advance or on the day. Expect to pay around $37 for a three-day pass, which grants access to all the sites visited.

What kind of bikes are used?
The tour features modern giant bikes, designed to be comfortable for long rides. They are suitable for most riders, but if you’re unsure about biking for several hours, it’s worth considering your comfort level beforehand.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but it depends on individual fitness and comfort with biking. The distance and terrain are manageable for many, but very young children or those with mobility issues might find it challenging.

What is the start time and how early should I be ready?
The tour starts at 8:30 am, with hotel pickup approximately at 7:30 am. Arriving on time ensures you have everything ready for a smooth start.

How long does each site visit last?
Expect around 2 hours at Angkor Wat, 1 hour 30 minutes at Bayon, 1 hour at Ta Nei, and 1 hour at Ta Prohm. The total tour duration is about 8 hours, including transfers and breaks.

What’s included in the price?
You get an English-speaking guide, bottled water, modern bikes, hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, and lunch.

Are meals included?
Yes, a delicious Khmer lunch at a local restaurant is part of the experience. Reviewers particularly enjoyed it, noting the authenticity and flavor.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour offers standard visits, but private tours with custom itineraries for groups of 4 or more can be arranged—contact the provider for details.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The experience requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Exploring Angkor by bike offers a unique, immersive way to connect with Cambodia’s history and landscape. With expert guides, manageable group sizes, and a well-rounded itinerary, this tour promises a memorable day that combines activity, culture, and delicious food—all at a great price. Perfect for adventurous souls who want more than just a quick snapshot of Angkor’s wonders.