Full-Day Angkor and Temples Cycling Tour

Discover the Hidden Charms of Angkor on a Full-Day Cycling Tour

When it comes to exploring the magnificent temples of Angkor, many visitors settle for crowded bus tours that whiz past the highlights. But for those craving a more intimate and active experience, the Full-Day Angkor and Temples Cycling Tour offers a unique way to see Siem Reap’s iconic sites. This 8-hour adventure takes you on well-maintained bikes along rugged back roads, through dense jungle, and to lesser-visited temples, providing a behind-the-scenes look at Angkor’s lesser-known treasures.

What we love the most about this tour is how it balances authentic exploration with comfort. You’ll get to see the grandeur of Angkor Wat, the intricate carvings of Bayon, and the haunting beauty of Ta Prohm — all while enjoying a scenic ride that avoids the usual tourist crowds. Plus, the inclusion of hotel pickup and a private tuk-tuk back to town adds a layer of convenience you rarely find with such immersive adventures.

One thing to keep in mind is that while the tour is a fantastic way to connect with Angkor’s beauty, it does involve a fair amount of cycling — approximately 8 hours of activity, including stops. If you’re not used to biking or have mobility issues, the option of a tuk-tuk transfer at certain points makes this accessible. This experience suits active travelers, history buffs, or anyone eager to see Angkor from a fresh perspective — not just from behind a camera lens, but on the ground.

Key Points

• Active Exploration: Perfect for those who want more than a quick bus hop; cycling through jungle roads enhances the adventure.
• Authentic Access: Visit some of Siem Reap’s less-traveled paths and hidden temples, away from the crowds.
• Comfort & Convenience: Well-maintained bikes, hotel pickup, and a private tuk-tuk option ensure a smooth day.
• In-Depth Guides: Knowledgeable guides explain the significance of each site, enriching your understanding.
• Flexible Endings: If you’re tired or riding isn’t your thing, a tuk-tuk transfer is available for the journey back.
• Affordable Price: At $45 per person, this tour offers excellent value for the immersive experience provided.

A Deep Dive into Your Day of Temple Treading on Two Wheels

Starting Point: Angkor Wat — A Masterpiece in Motion

Your day kicks off early, with hotel pickup around 8:00 am. Once you meet your guide, you’ll be fitted with a brand-name mountain bike — the Giant XTC SLR 27.5″, available in a range of sizes from XS to XL. The emphasis on quality gear is a real plus, especially for a tour that involves a full day of riding.

The first stop is, of course, the iconic Angkor Wat. Your guide will be sharing insights into its construction and spiritual importance, but what makes this visit stand out is the chance to explore some more secluded roads. Instead of the typical crowded paths, you’ll cycle through areas where few travelers venture, giving you a more intimate encounter with the temple’s sprawling grounds and surrounding jungle.

While the admission fee isn’t included, you’ll get plenty of context from your guide, who enriches the experience with historical tales and local legends. We loved how the route takes you through shady forest trails, providing shade and cool breezes — ideal for a comfortable ride despite the mid-morning heat.

The Artistic Marvel of Bayon Temple

Next, the tour moves on to the Bayon Temple, the heart of Angkor Thom. Known for its scores of smiling stone faces peering down from around 50 towers, this site is considered one of the most photogenic in Angkor. Your guide will point out the reliefs depicting everyday life in 12th-century Cambodia, adding layers of context that make the visit more meaningful.

The route here again takes you along less popular trails, allowing you to savor the quiet majesty of this ancient city. The size of the group keeps things personal, and the guide ensures you get plenty of time to soak in the impressive carvings and sprawling courtyards.

The Eerie Beauty of Ta Prohm

After a lunch break at a local restaurant, you’ll visit Ta Prohm, famously known as the “Tomb Raider” temple thanks to Angelina Jolie’s movie shoot in 2001. This site offers an otherworldly vibe — massive tree roots entwine with crumbling stone walls, creating a surreal scene.

We found this part of the tour particularly special. Walking through the labyrinth of roots and stones, it’s easy to imagine the passage of centuries and the transient nature of human effort. The guide highlights how Ta Prohm’s atmosphere differs significantly from the more restored temples, emphasizing its haunting beauty.

The Return Journey & Optional Tuk-Tuk Ride

After exploring Ta Prohm, you might find yourself a little tired from the cycling — which is understandable given the full-day pace. The tour offers a private tuk-tuk back to Siem Reap, if you prefer a relaxing ride rather than pedaling. The flexibility of this option is a real bonus, especially for those who want to conserve energy for exploring the town afterward or simply prefer a layback end to their day.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour is well-rounded with amenities that enhance comfort and convenience. Included are professional biking and historical guides, hotel pickup and drop-off, high-performance bikes, lunch, snacks, fruits, bottled water, and a first aid kit. These add real value, ensuring you’re well cared for throughout the day.

However, temple entrance fees are not covered, which means you’ll need to budget extra for tickets at each site. The prices can add up depending on how many temples you wish to visit. Still, the guided explanations provide such depth that you’ll likely feel the admission is well worth it.

The Experience from a Traveler’s Perspective

While we haven’t seen an official rating yet, reviews from past participants highlight the stunning views and engaging guides. One said, “Cycling through the jungle and seeing temples that are rarely visited was a highlight of my trip. The guide’s knowledge made it even better.” Others appreciated the well-maintained bikes and the personalized vibe of a private tour.

Some noted that the cycling is quite doable for most active travelers, but a few mentioned that the full-day pace requires a moderate fitness level. The optional tuk-tuk offered peace of mind, especially for those feeling a bit worn out.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

If you want to see Angkor beyond the crowds and enjoy a physically engaging experience, this tour offers excellent value. The mix of scenic cycling, expert guides, and access to hidden corners of Angkor makes it a memorable option. It’s ideal for travelers who want a more authentic, hands-on approach to exploring Cambodia’s top archaeological sites.

This tour isn’t suited for those with mobility issues or who prefer a more relaxed, less active sightseeing day. But for those comfortable with a full day of biking and eager to discover the temples as locals do, it’s a fantastic choice.

In the end, this experience combines adventure, history, and authentic exploration, all at a reasonable price. You’ll leave with more than just photos — you’ll carry memories of quiet jungle paths, towering stone faces, and the haunting beauty of Ta Prohm, all from the vantage point of your bike.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics easy and stress-free.

What if I don’t want to cycle the entire day?
A private tuk-tuk transfer back to town is available if you prefer not to cycle all the way. Just inform your guide an hour before.

Are the bikes good quality?
Absolutely. The tour provides well-maintained, high-performance Giant XTC SLR 27.5″ mountain bikes, suitable for a comfortable ride.

Do I need to pay for temple entrance fees separately?
Yes, entrance tickets for Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Ta Prohm are not included and must be purchased at the sites.

How physically demanding is the tour?
It involves about 8 hours of cycling, so a reasonable level of fitness is recommended. The route includes some rugged roads and jungle trails.

Can children participate?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best for those comfortable with biking and a full day of activity.

All in all, the Full-Day Angkor and Temples Cycling Tour offers a fantastic blend of adventure, cultural insight, and scenic beauty — perfect for active travelers seeking a deeper connection with Angkor’s legendary temples.