Angkor Wat & Bayon: the Smiling Temple Bike Tour

A Relaxed Ride Through Cambodia’s Greatest Temples: Angkor Wat & Bayon: the Smiling Temple Bike Tour

If you’re looking for a way to experience the legendary Angkor temples without the crowds or the intense heat, this bike tour offers a peaceful, intimate look at Cambodia’s most famous sites. It’s a leisurely ride designed for those who prefer gentle exploration over adrenaline or speed, making it an excellent choice for travelers wanting a relaxed yet enriching experience.

What we particularly love about this tour are its easy pace, the chance to enjoy beautiful natural surroundings, and the opportunity to see hidden trails you might miss on a bus or tuk-tuk. Plus, the chance to chat with an English-speaking guide who shares insightful stories enhances the experience. That said, because entrance fees aren’t included, it’s worth budgeting a bit extra for your tickets. This tour suits those who want a gentle, guided exploration—ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small groups seeking a leisurely day out.

Key Points

• Relaxed and non-competitive cycling suited for all fitness levels
• Includes a quality mountain bike, helmet, and a delicious lunch
• Provides insightful commentary from an experienced guide
• Explores both Angkor Wat and Bayon temples at a comfortable pace
• Highlights hidden trails and natural scenery
• Not including entrance fees means budget accordingly

An Honest Look at the Experience

This 5-hour bike tour sits at a friendly price point of $40 per person, which, when you consider the guided commentary, bike rental, lunch, and drinks included, offers good value for a comprehensive half-day experience. The tour begins bright and early at 8:00 am, perfectly timed to beat the larger crowds and the midday heat, especially considering the September to April dry season.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes a mountain bike (Giant or Trek), helmet, lunch, fresh coconut juice, and pure drinking water—a thoughtful touch in a warm climate. Guides are English-speaking, ensuring clear explanations about the sites and their stories. The admission tickets to the Angkor Archaeological Park are not included, so plan for those separately, which allows flexibility based on your interests and budget.

Meeting Point and Practicalities

Start time of 8:00 am makes it a smooth, early start, allowing you to make the most of your day afterward. The meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation, making it easy to access without extra fuss. As this is a private tour, only your group will join, ensuring a more personalized experience.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See

Stop 1: Serene Cyclist’s Passage to Angkor’s Wonders

The ride begins on a flat, peaceful trail, where you’ll enjoy the tranquil environment—enormous trees providing natural shade and the occasional monkey darting across the path. It’s a chance to soak up the serenity of Cambodia’s countryside without the hustle and bustle of tuk-tuks or large groups.

Angkor Wat: A Wonder in Its Own Right

Your guide will share details about Angkor Wat, one of the world’s most recognizable seven wonders. You’ll get to appreciate its majesty from the outside, and although the entry fee isn’t included, the view from the outside alone is worth the trip. The temple’s intricate architecture and symmetrical design stand out, and the early morning light adds a magical touch.

South Gate of Angkor Thom

Next, you’ll visit the South Gate of Angkor Thom, famous for its defensive walls and carved faces. It’s a fantastic place for photos and gives you a sense of the ancient city’s scale. The guide might point out the defensive features and tell stories about the history of Angkor’s capital.

Climb at Prasat Chrung for Views

One of the tour’s highlights is climbing the protection wall at Prasat Chrung, which offers breathtaking views over the surrounding landscape. It’s a rare chance to see the temple complex from an elevated perspective, making for memorable photos.

West Gate of Angkor Thom

The West Gate is less restored but equally evocative, offering a glimpse into the ruins and the passage of time. Its untouched charm appeals to those interested in authentic, less-polished sites.

Bayon Temple: The Smiling Heart

Finally, you’ll visit Bayon, famous for its 54 towers and 216 smiling faces. The faces seem to greet visitors from every angle, and the temple’s intricate carvings tell stories of Khmer mythology. The guide will explain the symbolism behind the massive stone faces and the significance of the site in Cambodia’s history.

The Ride: What to Expect

This is a leisurely ride, with most of the path being flat and suitable for cyclists of all levels. Several reviewers mention that it’s not physically demanding, making it perfect for those who want to enjoy the sights without breaking a sweat.

Monkey encounters and butterfly sightings are common along the trails, adding a touch of wildlife charm. Some travelers noted how quiet and peaceful the environment is, giving a sense of being immersed in nature rather than in a crowded tourist hotspot.

How the Tour Feels

Most reviews highlight the relaxing pace, giving plenty of time for photos, breaks, and soaking in the scenery. The quality bikes and helmets provided mean you don’t need to worry about gear, and the lunch is described as tasty and filling—great fuel for the rest of the day.

Authenticity and Personalization

Because this is a private tour, you can ask your guide questions and get tailored explanations. One reviewer appreciated their guide’s knowledge and friendliness, mentioning that the quiet, personal vibe made the experience more memorable.

What Could Be Better?

While many praise the tour, some note the additional cost of entrance tickets, which can add up if you’re planning to visit multiple temples independently. Also, the weather can be a factor—if it’s rainy or very hot, the experience might be less enjoyable. However, the tour’s flexibility allows you to reschedule or cancel with a 24-hour notice for a full refund.

Is This Tour for You?

This bike tour is best suited for travelers who prefer a relaxed, scenic exploration over intense physical activity or long-distance cycling. It’s ideal if you want a guided, educational experience with plenty of time for photos and reflection. Those who are not comfortable on a bike or looking for a packed, adventure-style day may prefer other options.

Final Thoughts

This Angkor Wat & Bayon bike tour offers a peaceful way to enjoy Cambodia’s most famous temples without the chaos of larger groups. The combination of scenic trails, insightful guides, and visits to iconic sites makes it a value-packed experience for travelers wanting an authentic, relaxed day.

The included lunch and drinks add to the comfort, while the private setting ensures your group can explore at your own pace. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy gentle outdoor activities and want to see the temples from a different perspective—on two wheels, in harmony with nature.

If you’re after a calm, intimate, and insightful way to explore Angkor, this tour could be just the right fit.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, but the meeting point is near public transportation, making it easy to join.

What’s the best time to start?
The tour starts at 8:00 am, allowing you to enjoy the cooler morning hours and avoid the midday crowds.

Are the bikes suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, the tour is designed as a leisurely, non-professional ride, suitable for most fitness levels and even those who rarely cycle.

Do I need to pay entrance fees separately?
Yes, entrance tickets to Angkor Archaeological Park are not included, so plan to purchase those in addition.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring sun protection, sunglasses, a hat, and your camera. The tour provides water, coconut juice, and a helmet.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to weather, a full refund or alternative date will be offered.

This bike tour combines beautiful scenery, historical insights, and relaxed pacing into a memorable way to experience Angkor’s magic. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply after a peaceful half-day, it’s a thoughtful, accessible way to explore Cambodia’s crown jewel.