DB 3 Day, 2 Night Dirt Bike Tour Preah Khan & Koh Ker Temples Offroad

If you’re looking for an adventure that combines adrenaline, authentic culture, and breathtaking scenery, the 3-Day, 2-Night Dirt Bike Tour to Preah Khan and Koh Ker might just be your ideal escape. Operating in Siem Reap, Cambodia, for over 20 years, this tour offers a rare chance to explore some of the country’s most remote and intriguing temples on challenging off-road trails. It’s designed for those who crave more than just sightseeing—who want to experience Cambodia’s landscape and history with their own hands on the handlebars.

What sets this tour apart is the expert guidance, personalized experiences, and the chance to ride through areas few travelers ever see. Plus, the tour’s inclusions like gear, accommodations, and meals make it a practical choice for those seeking value. That said, it’s not for the faint-hearted—expect rugged terrain, some long stretches of difficult riding, and a physically demanding itinerary.

If you’re comfortable with moderate physical activity and crave an immersive, off-the-beaten-path adventure, this trip offers a rare, rewarding perspective on Cambodia’s countryside and its ancient monuments. Whether you’re a seasoned dirt biker or a curious traveler eager to try, this tour promises genuine encounters and memorable vistas.

Key Points

• Authentic Off-Road Adventure: Ride through remote villages, jungle tracks, and ancient highways, away from crowded tourist spots.
• Expert Guides & Local Welcome: Knowledgeable guides with over 20 years of experience ensure safety and cultural insights.
• Comprehensive Inclusions: Gear, meals, and accommodations are covered, offering good value and convenience.
• Challenging & Scenic Routes: Expect rugged tracks suited to your skill level, with stunning temple views at every stop.
• Authentic Interactions: Opportunities to meet locals and visit small villages, adding cultural depth.
• Suitable for Moderate Fitness: Designed for those with a decent level of physical fitness and adventure spirit.

An In-Depth Look at the Cambodia Dirt Bike Experience

This tour is a blend of adventure, history, and culture wrapped into three days of off-road riding. It’s tailored to those who want an active, authentic exploration of Cambodia beyond temple ruins and tourist crowds. Let’s break down what you can expect across each day, based on the detailed itinerary and real traveler insights.

Day 1: Journey into Pre-Angkorian Wilderness

Starting early from Siem Reap, the first leg takes you onto dirt roads winding past small villages and lush countryside. The ride is designed to suit different skill levels—so the emphasis is on fun, not just challenge. Along the way, you’ll stop at local markets to see vegetables, produce, and perhaps sample some street snacks, giving a glimpse into daily Khmer life.

The highlight is the visit to Preah Khan Kompong Svay, a sprawling site located 180 km into the jungle. This remote temple, also called Bakan locally, is an ancient capital nestled in Preah Vihear province. The ride here is a true test of riding skills—overgrown single tracks, ancient bridges, and twisty jungle paths that feel like stepping back in time. As one reviewer noted, the roads are challenging ox cart tracks through the jungle, and the experience is made all the more special by the sense of isolation and discovery.

After exploring the temple ruins and surrounding area, you’ll stop in Ta Seng village to meet locals. Here, some travelers opt to stay overnight at a local homestay or a comfortable hotel in Tbeng Meanchey, depending on their energy levels and preferences.

Day 2: Discovering Koh Ker—A Lost Khmer Kingdom

Day two takes you further afield to Koh Ker, a UNESCO site that served as a 10th-century Khmer capital. The journey of over 150 km from Siem Reap is filled with a mix of challenging off-road tracks and scenic views, making it a true highlight.

The tour includes stops at Prasat Thom, the commanding central pyramidal temple, with panoramic views of surrounding rice paddies and forests. You’ll also visit Prasat 5 (Temple of the Five Towers), Prasat Chen (the Chinese Temple), and the haunting Elephant Temple, among others. Each site reveals different facets of Khmer architecture and history, with guides sharing insights along the way.

One reviewer praised the “challenging ox cart tracks through the jungle” and the collaborative effort to customize the route based on rider ability. The experience feels like an exploration of Cambodia’s secret history, away from the crowds, with the chance to see ancient ruins in a natural setting.

Day 3: From Koh Ker to Beng Mealea and Hidden Hinterlands

The final day begins with a hearty breakfast before heading to Beng Mealea, often called the “lost temple” because of its overgrown, jungle-covered ruins. Located on an ancient highway connecting Koh Ker and Bakan, this site offers an atmospheric backdrop for more off-road riding.

Beng Mealea is regarded as a prototype for Angkor Wat and features over 11 galleries filled with hanging ferns, butterflies, and moss-covered stones. As one reviewer expressed, “just what you’d imagine in Cambodia,” with the added thrill of exploring an almost untouched temple complex. The route also takes you through satellite temples and scenic forested landscapes, making for a fitting finale to the adventure.

Practical Details & Considerations

This tour packs in a lot over a short time, making it a physically demanding journey. The Honda XR 250 bikes come with electric start, and the option for upgrades like CRF, WR, or KTM models allows for some customization depending on rider preference. The included gear—helmet, goggles, gloves, motocross boots, elbow, and knee pads—ensures safety, though riders should come prepared for rugged terrain.

The tour includes 3 meals (lunch, dinner, breakfast), bottled water, and night accommodations—either at local homestays or hotels, depending on your choice and logistics. Ice-cold beer at the end of each day is a well-appreciated perk, making post-ride relaxation all the sweeter.

While the tour is designed for moderate physical fitness, reviews underscore the importance of rider confidence on challenging tracks. Long stretches of difficult terrain and steep climbs are part of the thrill, but could be tiring for less experienced riders. The guide’s expertise and local knowledge were frequently praised, with many reviewers noting how their guides, like Mr. Rong and Mr. Slim, went above and beyond to ensure safety and enjoyment.

Authentic Encounters and Cultural Insights

What we love about this experience is the genuine interaction with locals. From stopping at markets to sharing meals in small villages, the tour fosters a sense of connection and understanding. One reviewer mentioned how their guide was a good cook and a knowledgeable storyteller, enriching the journey beyond just riding.

Travelers also appreciated the chance to see Cambodia’s countryside, often described as “deserted temples and remote hamlets,” which are rarely accessible without a vehicle. These encounters give the trip a sense of discovery and authenticity, far removed from typical tourist routes.

Pricing, Value, and Overall Experience

At approximately $958 per person, this tour offers comprehensive value. It includes gear, accommodations, meals, and expert guides—elements that can quickly add up if booked separately. The fact that it’s a private experience enhances its appeal, providing personalized attention and flexibility.

The price reflects the adventure’s rugged terrain, expert leadership, and curated routes through some of Cambodia’s most secluded sites. Many reviewers highlighted how their experience exceeded expectations, especially given the high level of organization and attention to detail.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This dirt bike adventure is best suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness who are comfortable on bikes and eager to explore Cambodia’s landscapes beyond popular sights. It’s ideal for those craving off-the-beaten-path encounters, enthusiastic about history, and capable of handling challenging terrain.

While not a beginner’s tour, experienced dirt bikers will appreciate the technical aspects, and less experienced riders should be prepared for some physically demanding riding. The small group size and expert guides ensure safety and personalized experiences, making it accessible to a range of adventure lovers.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

In short, this 3-day dirt bike tour offers a unique blend of adventure, culture, and discovery. You’ll ride through remote villages, jungle tracks, and ancient highways, visiting temples that few travelers get to see. The guides’ local knowledge and the authentic encounters ensure that you not only see Cambodia but feel it in a way only riding can facilitate.

It’s an excellent choice for adventure-seeking travelers, history buffs, or those eager to step outside typical tourist paths. The effort involved in the rugged terrain is balanced by the sense of achievement and the stunning sights you’ll encounter. For anyone with a desire to explore Cambodia from a different perspective, this tour delivers excitement, authenticity, and memories that will last a lifetime.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
This tour is designed for those with moderate physical fitness and some riding experience. It involves challenging off-road tracks and long distances, so beginners should assess their comfort level with rugged terrain.

What type of motorcycle is provided?
You’ll ride a Honda XR 250 with electric start. There’s an option for upgrades to models like CRF, WR, or KTM, depending on availability and rider preference.

Are meals and accommodations included?
Yes, your package covers breakfast, lunch, dinner, and two nights’ accommodation—either at local homestays or hotels, based on your choice and the itinerary.

What safety gear is provided?
Riders are supplied with helmets, goggles, gloves, motocross boots, elbow, and knee pads, helping to safeguard you during the ride.

Can I join if I’m not from Cambodia?
Absolutely. The tour operates for international travelers, with pickup and drop-off services from Siem Reap provided.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to three days before the experience for a full refund. Cancellations less than three days prior are non-refundable unless the tour is canceled due to weather or minimum group size issues.

Embarking on this adventure means stepping into Cambodia’s wild side—far from crowded temples, into the heart of its landscape and history. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or an enthusiastic explorer, this tour offers a rare, authentic glimpse into a land brimming with stories and scenic surprises.