Angkor Region & Rainforest Bike Tour

If you’re planning a visit to Siem Reap and want to see the temples beyond the usual crowds, the Angkor Region & Rainforest Bike Tour is an option worth considering. While we haven’t personally taken this exact journey, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a clear picture of a memorable and authentic adventure. This tour offers a fantastic way to explore Angkor’s most iconic sites while avoiding the tourist bottlenecks that often spoil the experience.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines the beauty of untouched nature with the majesty of ancient temples, guided by knowledgeable local experts. The inclusion of a quality mountain bike, helmet, and refreshing drinks makes it feel both safe and relaxed. The opportunity to pedal through hidden trails and jungle pathways gives a sense of discovery that you just can’t get from a tuk-tuk or bus. That said, it’s important to note that the tour doesn’t include the temple entrance fee, which is an additional expense, and the pick-up and drop-off are not covered, so you’ll want to plan accordingly.

This experience is best suited for active travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, are comfortable riding a mountain bike, and want a more intimate look at Angkor’s lesser-seen corners. If you’re after an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience with a dash of adventure, this tour might be just what you need.

Key Points

• Hidden Trails: Avoid crowds by exploring off the usual tourist routes through jungle paths and rainforest trails.
• Included Equipment: A high-quality TREK mountain bike and helmet are provided, removing the hassle of sourcing gear.
• Comprehensive Visits: Five major temples are covered, including Angkor Wat, Bayon, Preah Khan, Tanei, and Taprom, offering a mix of iconic sights and lesser-known sites.
• Relaxed Pace & Refreshments: The 8-hour tour includes a local lunch, coconut water, and drinking water, keeping you energized.
• Guided Expertise: The tours are led by experienced English-speaking guides, making the history and significance of each site more accessible.
• Additional Costs: Entrance tickets to the temples are not included, so budget an extra $37 for the day’s passes.

The Details of the Tour

Starting the Adventure

The tour kicks off early at 7:30 am from Taphul Rd in Siem Reap, giving you a full day to explore without the midday heat or heavy crowds. Since the tour lasts approximately 8 hours, you’ll want to wear comfortable clothes, bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a camera to capture the sights. The group is small—no more than 10 travelers—so expect a personalized experience and plenty of interaction with your guide.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: Angkor’s Rainforest Trails
Your adventure begins on a natural, undeveloped path weaving through the lush surroundings. This part of the ride is perfect for those who enjoy nature and want a break from the stone and crowds. You’ll get a chance to see how the jungle has preserved some of Angkor’s secrets, with reviewer Franck_Q noting that “it was a muddy day and a great tour,” highlighting the authentic touch of riding through the damp forest trails.

Angkor Wat
Arguably the most famous temple in Cambodia, Angkor Wat is often crowded, but on a bike, you can bypass the lines and appreciate its grandeur from different angles. The guide will probably point out details you might miss on a bus tour, such as intricate carvings or the serene reflection pools.

South Gate of Angkor Thom
Next, you’ll visit the impressive southern entrance of Angkor Thom—its ornate gates and detailed bas-reliefs are worth a slow look. Riders often climb up parts of the wall for panoramic views, a favorite among reviewers who say, “Great ride on small wet trails in the rain forest,” capturing the thrill of riding through less accessible areas.

Prasat Chrung & Other Gates
From there, you’ll venture onto the walls of Angkor Thom itself, stopping at Prasat Chrung for a stunning view. The tour includes stops at the West and North gates, which are less frequently visited but equally impressive.

Bayon Temple
Known for its 54 towers adorned with smiling faces, Bayon is a highlight that blends spirituality with artistry. The guide’s insights will help you understand the significance of the faces and the temple’s history, making it more meaningful than just snapping photos.

Preah Khan & Tanei
Next, you’ll explore Preah Khan, a sprawling, jungle-covered temple that takes on a mysterious vibe, especially if you’ve seen the reviews mentioning its jungle overgrowth. It feels like stepping into a secret world. Then, there’s Tanei, an ancient hospital untouched by modern archaeologists—an unusual but fascinating site that adds depth to your experience.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour price of $50 per person is quite reasonable considering the quality of the bike, guide, and meals included. You’ll get a premium mountain bike, helmet, lunch, and drinks, which adds significant value. The temple entry fee of $37 is separate, so budget accordingly.

Transportation to and from your hotel isn’t included, so plan your morning logistics. The meeting point is conveniently located in Siem Reap, and the early start helps you beat the crowds and the midday heat.

The Experience from the Guides & Reviewers

Multiple reviewers rave about the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, with Franck_Q mentioning Bo Bo and his team as very professional. They highlight the well-maintained bikes and the ability to see hidden temple sites that most travelers miss. Janie_W loved that she could bring her family along, commenting, “It’s a great way to see several temples as well as enjoy some rainforest and countryside.”

The Value Factor

While $50 seems affordable for a full-day guided tour, it’s important to remember that the entrance fee isn’t included. Still, when you consider the quality of the bikes, the expert guides, the food, and drinks, this tour offers good value for active travelers seeking a more authentic experience of Angkor’s wilderness.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This bike tour is perfect for those who want to combine culture, adventure, and nature. If you’re comfortable cycling for several hours and enjoy exploring on two wheels, you’ll find it particularly rewarding. The knowledgeable guides will enrich your understanding of each site, making this more than just a sightseeing trip.

It also suits travelers who prefer a small group setting, as the maximum group size is 10, ensuring plenty of personal attention. Expect to get a little muddy and sweaty—this is a physically active way to see Siem Reap, so good footwear, water, and sunscreen are essential.

The Sum Up

The Angkor Region & Rainforest Bike Tour offers an engaging, authentic way to see some of Siem Reap’s most treasured sites. Riding through jungle trails and discovering hidden temples provides a sense of adventure that a standard tour can’t match. The friendly, knowledgeable guides, combined with the high-quality equipment and delicious lunch, make it a compelling choice for travelers wanting to go beyond the typical Angkor experience.

If you’re a history buff, nature lover, or active explorer, this tour is a fantastic option. It balances physical activity with cultural discovery, ensuring you walk away with a deeper appreciation of Angkor’s grandeur and mystery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation to and from my hotel included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pick-up or drop-off. You’ll need to arrange your transportation to the meeting point in Siem Reap.

Do I need to bring my own bike gear?
No, a premium mountain bike and helmet are provided as part of the tour. However, bringing sunglasses, sunscreen, and comfortable clothing is recommended.

How much does the temple pass cost?
The admission ticket for the temples is not included in the tour price and costs $37 for a one-day pass.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-cyclists?
The tour is active and involves cycling for several hours. It’s best suited for travelers comfortable on a mountain bike and in good physical condition.

What’s the group size?
The maximum group size is 10 travelers, which offers a more personalized experience.

Are the guides knowledgeable about the sites?
Yes, the guides are experienced and speak English well, enhancing your understanding of the history and significance of each temple.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring your camera, sunglasses, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes. Be sure to advise your passenger height when booking for proper bike fitting and inform the guide of any dietary needs.

In summary, if you’re after a more adventurous and intimate exploration of Angkor, with the benefit of expert guiding and a scenic route through jungle trails, this bike tour offers excellent value. It’s well-suited for active, curious travelers eager to see a different side of Cambodia’s most famous temples.