Angkor Wat Backroads Private Cycling Tour

If you’re looking to see Angkor beyond the crowds and mainstream guides, this Backroads Private Cycling Tour in Siem Reap offers a refreshing, authentic way to explore Cambodia’s ancient temples. Instead of battling through tourist-heavy routes, you’ll pedal along peaceful jungle trails, quiet rural roads, and discover some of the lesser-visited spots that most visitors miss. Led by an experienced guide, this tour feels more like a day spent with friends rather than a standard sightseeing trip, blending scenic beauty with cultural richness.

Our favorite aspects? First, the intimate access to lesser-known temples and forest paths. Second, the knowledgeable guidance—our guide, Steven, was praised for his sincerity and deep understanding of the local culture. Third, the delicious Cambodian lunch included, which offers a perfect recharge. The main consideration? The price—at $79 per person, it’s a fantastic value, but it does exclude the Angkor Pass fee ($37/day). This tour is best suited for active travelers craving a more personal, immersive experience of Angkor’s quieter side.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Ride along peaceful trails away from tourist crowds.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides share engaging stories and insights.
• Scenic Diversity: From temples to countryside, the views are varied and beautiful.
• Flexibility: Option to cycle back or transfer via support vehicle.
• Value for Money: Combines scenic adventure, cultural education, and included lunch.
• Physical Demand: Moderate fitness needed, but guides accommodate different paces.

Why Choose This Cycling Tour?

The Angkor Wat Backroads Private Cycling Tour is a smart choice for those who want more than just a quick photo at Angkor’s main sites. Instead, it’s a journey into the lesser-explored corners of the complex, perfect for adventurous souls and culturally curious travelers. The tour strikes a careful balance—offering enough activity to keep you engaged, but not so strenuous that it’s inaccessible.

From the start, the experience is crafted for comfort and safety. You’ll be fitted with a high-quality mountain bike and helmet, and a support vehicle will follow, ready to assist or transfer you back if needed. This setup means you can focus on soaking up the scenery without worry, which many reviewers appreciated—especially those who hadn’t been on a bike for years, like one couple who praised their guide for making the day “comfortable, even after 30 years off the bike.”

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Meeting in Siem Reap & Briefing

Your day begins early, around 8AM, with a hotel pickup—convenient and stress-free. After a quick safety briefing and overview of the day, you’re fitted with the gear needed for a smooth ride. The guide’s professionalism and friendliness immediately set a welcoming tone, making sure everyone feels prepared for the adventure ahead.

First Stop: Angkor Wat

The ride into Angkor Wat itself is special. Instead of a bus or crowded tour bus, you’ll cycle along peaceful jungle trails that weave through the park. The guide shares interesting stories about the temple’s construction, emphasizing the atmosphere of serenity that often gets lost amidst crowds. The trails give a sense of discovery, as you get close enough to see the details of the temple’s structure without being packed among other travelers. This part of the tour lasts approximately 2 hours, including time to capture photos and ask questions.

Exploring Angkor Thom & Bayon

Next, the journey takes you to Angkor Thom, entering through its South Gate decorated with elephants and faces, setting the tone for the grandeur inside. The cycling route continues through shaded pathways, providing a refreshing break from the heat, and leads to the famous Bayon Temple. Here, you’re greeted by the iconic stone faces and intricate carvings that tell stories of Khmer power and spirituality. Our guide explained the symbolism behind the 54 towers and the faces, making this stop both visually stunning and intellectually engaging.

Passing Key Landmarks

As you pedal along, you’ll see other notable ruins like the Baphuon Temple, Terrace of the Elephants, and Terrace of the Leper King. These sites are less crowded but equally mesmerizing, offering a deeper appreciation for the scale and ceremonial nature of Angkor’s layout. The guide provided insights into their functions and historical significance, transforming these ruins from mere stones into stories of Cambodia’s royal past.

Forest Trails & Ta Prohm

The highlight for many is the Ta Prohm Temple, famously entwined with jungle roots. The forest trails leading here are shaded and atmospheric—perfect for photography and soaking in the wild, untouched vibe. Once there, you’ll see towering roots gripping the stone walls, a scene made famous by movies like Tomb Raider. The 1.5-hour visit allows plenty of time for wandering and admiring the incredible natural architecture.

Return & Optional Extended Ride

After the temple visits, your support vehicle is ready to take you back to Siem Reap. Alternatively, if you’re feeling energetic, your guide can lead you on a longer ride back through the tranquil countryside, which many guests enjoyed. The flexibility is a big plus—either way, you’ll reach your hotel comfortably.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The reviews shine a light on some of the tour’s unique strengths. For instance, one traveler mentioned their guide Steven, who was “incredibly sincere and knowledgeable,” making the entire day both fun and informative. Others appreciated how the guide took into account their experience level, especially for those who hadn’t cycled in years, ensuring everyone felt comfortable throughout.

The scenic routes are a major selling point. Cycling along jungle trails and rural roads reveals Cambodia’s countryside and daily life, offering a taste of local culture you won’t get from standard tours. The peaceful atmosphere allows for better reflection and photography, especially at sunrise or sunset, which some guests found to be a magical addition.

The lunch included—a typical Cambodian meal—keeps you energized for the day’s activities. While drinks aren’t included, cold water is provided, and many guests found the food to be tasty and filling, providing good value for the overall price.

Practical Details & What to Expect

Duration & Flexibility

The tour lasts roughly 7 hours, starting early at 8AM, with the option to extend the ride back or relax in the support vehicle. The moderate physical fitness requirement means you should be comfortable on a bike for several hours, but the guide will tailor the pace as needed. The mix of riding, walking, and resting makes it accessible for most active travelers.

Cost & What It Covers

At $79 per person, the price includes a private guide, mountain bike, helmet, support vehicle, and a Cambodian lunch. The additional $37 for the Angkor Pass is paid separately, which is standard for most visits to the temples. This makes the tour quite good value, considering the personalized experience and the depth of exploration.

Meeting Point & Logistics

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Siem Reap, making logistics simple. Confirmation is quick, and the private nature means you won’t be sharing with strangers, allowing for a more relaxed, personalized experience.

What to Bring & Wear

Comfortable clothing suitable for cycling, sun protection, and water shoes if you want to explore temple interiors are recommended. The guide provides a first aid kit and safety gear, but it’s always good to carry your own sunblock and any personal medications.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This private backroads cycling adventure is perfect for travelers eager to see Angkor from a different perspective. It suits those who enjoy physical activity, have a moderate fitness level, and want to escape the crowds for a more intimate experience. If you’re interested in Cambodian history, culture, and stunning scenery, this tour offers a meaningful way to connect with Angkor beyond the typical tourist spots.

The combination of knowledgeable guides, scenic rural routes, and peaceful temple visits makes it a memorable day. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group, the flexible options and personalized touch ensure you’ll come away with plenty of stories and beautiful photos.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners or those with limited cycling experience?
Yes, the tour is suitable for most, especially since guides are attentive to your pace and comfort level. It’s designed for moderate activity, but guidance and support are available if needed.

What is included in the price?
The $79 fee covers your private guide, mountain bike, helmet, support vehicle, and lunch. Drinks are not included but cold water is provided.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 7 hours, starting at 8AM. You can choose to cycle back or let the support vehicle take you to your hotel after temple visits.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the Angkor Pass ($37 per day) is paid separately. The tour visits temple sites where the pass is required, but the fee isn’t included.

Can I extend the ride back to Siem Reap after visiting the temples?
Yes, your guide can lead you on a longer ride through the countryside or take the support vehicle. It’s flexible based on your energy and interest.

What should I bring?
Wear comfortable, breathable clothing, sun protection, and bring a camera. The guide provides safety gear and a first aid kit, but personal sunblock and any medications are recommended.

In summary, this private Angkor biking tour offers an exceptional blend of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and active exploration. It’s ideal for travelers who want to experience Cambodia’s temples in a relaxed, authentic way—without the crowds, and with plenty of local flavor.