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Holidays

Backroads of Cambodia Bike

Cambodia
3 reviews
Available Departures: Feb, Mar, Oct, Nov, Dec

14 days from

US$2,320

without flights
Cycle
Guided Group
LEISURELY LEISURELY

A cycling holiday in Cambodia from Angkor Wat to the Cardamom Mountains

Trip Code: CAMB
Holiday Grades
          

Our Holiday Grades Explained

To show the relative difficulty of our holidays, each trip is graded on a scale of 1 to 12, with 12 being the most challenging. Although we have tried to make our grading system as clear as possible, it cannot take into account your personal interests, abilities or experience. If you have any questions about the nature of a particular trip or its suitability for you, please read the 'Is this holiday for you?' section or contact us.

 1 - 3 LEISURELY
1 - 3 LEISURELY

Suitable for most people in good health, holidays at this grade include only limited amounts of activity.

View leisurely holidays
4 - 6 MODERATE
4 - 6 MODERATE

Suitable for reasonably fit individuals, such as weekend walkers and cyclists. There can be the occasional more difficult day.

View moderate holidays
7 - 9 CHALLENGING
7 - 9 CHALLENGING

Physically challenging holidays, where you need to be prepared before you go.

View challenging holidays
10 - 12 TOUGH
10 - 12 TOUGH

Our toughest holidays, involving many long days, often in isolated areas. A high level of fitness and previous wilderness and mountain experience is essential.

View Tough holidays

Backroads of Cambodia Bike

Highlights
  • Short and fun day-rides amongst the amazing temples at Angkor

  • Travel by boat on the lake of Tonle Sap and the Sangkae River

  • Dirt road cycling on the Phnom Kulen plateau and in the Cardamom Mountains

  • A day at the palm-fringed beach on the island of Koh Tongsay

  • Phnom Penh and a sunset cruise on the Mekong River


At a Glance
  • Group Size 6 to 15
  • 11 days biking
  • 250 kms
  • 20% off-road - 90% vehicle supported
  • Join In Siem Reap, End in Phnom Penh

Accommodation & Meals
  • 13 Breakfasts
  • 12 Lunches
  • 11 Dinners
  • 7 nights Hotel
  • 3 nights Homestay
  • 2 nights Bungalow
  • 1 nights Camping
Overview

Born out of the Khmer Empire, which dominated much of the region 1000 years ago, the Kingdom of Cambodia is one of the most exciting of South-East Asian destinations. This leisurely cycle tour is simply the best way to explore the highlights of a country whose chief means of transport often seems to be the bike. Starting out in Siem Reap, we are provided with our bikes and set off to explore on backroads and village trails amongst the breathtaking temples of Angkor Wat.


We also have 2 days exploring the plateau and national park of Phnom Kulen, where we can cycle on a purpose-built trail and camp out at the high point of the reserve with far-reaching views. A boat trip on the great waterway of Tonle Sap then takes us to Battambang, set in a landscape of rice fields, palm trees and pretty riverside villages. Moving on to the coastal town of Kampot, there is time for some R&R, including a boat trip to an island in the Gulf of Thailand. Then, we take another a boat ride, this time on a river, to Chi Phat on the edge of the Cardamom Mountains, where we ride on jungle trails to the waterfalls of O'Malu and to the tribal village of O'Kay. A final city tour of Phnom Penh and a sunset cruise on the Mekong River is a great way to sign off on this unforgettable adventure. A leisurely mountain biking holiday, offering the chance to experience the very best of Cambodia.

Is this holiday for you?

ADVENTURE CYCLING. Leisurely cycling on backroads and dirt trails between the temples and villages that we visit, this is our easiest biking holiday. We ride for an average of just 25 kilometres each day, with the emphasis on sightseeing. The more challenging days are at Phnom Kulen and in the foothills of the Cardamom Mountains, where we will encounter some slightly more rolling terrain and ea …

ADVENTURE CYCLING. Leisurely cycling on backroads and dirt trails between the temples and villages that we visit, this is our easiest biking holiday. We ride for an average of just 25 kilometres each day, with the emphasis on sightseeing. The more challenging days are at Phnom Kulen and in the foothills of the Cardamom Mountains, where we will encounter some slightly more rolling terrain and easy forest tracks. Clients finding any day to be difficult can take advantage of the support vehicle. Anyone who rides a bike occasionally will manage this holiday. Vehicle support is available for most of the route. Bikes (Trek 3700 with front suspension, V-brakes and Shimano components) are provided locally within the cost of the holiday. 

Why KE?

Hire Bike Included

There's no need to go to the trouble of taking your own bike to Cambodia - we include one within the holiday price.

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Itinerary

Your holiday starts at the hotel in Siem Reap. A single group transfer from Siem Reap Airport is provided. The remainder of the day is free for catching up on sleep following the long flight, or for independent sightseeing. Siem Reap is located a few kilometres south of Angkor Wat and extends along the banks of the Siem Reap River. As the gateway to the Angkor complex, the town is a popular tourist destination, with colonial and Chinese style architecture in the old French Quarter and some colourful and bustling markets.

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

D

After breakfast, you will pick up your bikes and the local guide will be on hand to make sure you get the right size. We then leave the hotel by bike for the world famous temples of Angkor, a source of national pride to all Khmers after years of horrific war and trauma. Bypassing the main tourist route we follow small dirt roads and narrow jungle paths which lead us to the stunning spectacle of Angkor Wat, the biggest of the Angkor temples and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1992. Angkor Wat is the largest Hindu temple complex and the largest religious monument in the world. Literally translated, Angkor Wat, means 'heaven on earth' and has become a national symbol of Cambodia. Angkor is the earthly representation of Mt Meru, the Mount Olympus of the Hindu faith and the abode of ancient gods. We will spend some time looking around the site and then, at sunset, we will climb the pyramid at Pre Rup. As the sun goes down, the majestic reddish hues of the temple are intensified and views of the surrounding rice fields of the Eastern Barray are quite stunning. We return to our hotel in Siem Reap.

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

B L D

Ascent

40 M

Descent

40 M

Time

2 hrs cycling

Distance

20 KM

We will drive out this morning (1.5 hours) to the natural plateau of the Phnom Kulen National Park. For the final part of the approach by bus there is the option for the more adventurous to cycle up to the plateau at an elevation of around 400 metres. Here, there's the chance to swim at a waterfall pool in the river before we set off to ride a new bike trail created by the CBTC which meanders through the rainforest and visits hidden 9th century pre-Angkorian temples on the way. Arriving at the village of Anlong Thom, we meet our hosts for a night in a wooden stilt house homestay. It is also possible to walk the section of CBTC trail.

Accommodation

Homestay

Meals

B L D

Ascent

380 M

Descent

50 M

Time

3 hrs cycling

Distance

25 KM

We enjoy a second day of mountain biking on the plateau of Phnom Kulen. Following forest tracks, we will cycle to the village of Sangkelak where there is a handicraft workshop (Kulen Crafts). There is the chance to try traditional mat weaving here, before we continue our ride to the highest point of the plateau at an elevation of around 500 metres. There are great views of the plain below and this is a great place to spend the night. There are wooden bivouac platforms (and the option to have a tent) with all bedding including mosquito nets provided.

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Ascent

110 M

Descent

40 M

Time

2 hrs cycling

Distance

20 KM

In the early morning, this is a great place to do some bird spotting and there are binoculars available for use. Then, after breakfast, we'll set off on our bikes, following easy trails to the edge of the plateau where we find a hermits cave with ancient Khmer inscriptions. At Wat Chas, a small monastery at the eastern edge of the plateau, we can look down to Svay Leu and the plains below. We descend to Ta Penh, meet our vehicle support and set off across the plains to the temples of Roluos. We will concentrate here on the special 'mountain temple' of Bakhong, built by King Indravarman in 881. It is the most remote of the temples and the least visited, but that make it perfect for us. There's lots to see here, including an active Buddhist monastery at one of the entrances. We will have lunch at a traditional Khmer house in the countryside. In the afternoon, we will cycle back to our hotel in Siem Reap.

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

B L D

Ascent

110 M

Descent

600 M

Time

4 hrs cycling

Distance

35 KM

Cycling to Angkor Thom from our hotel, the spectacular sight of the faces of 54 demons and 54 gods makes for a jaw dropping entrance to this ancient capital. The major Khmer king, Jayavarman VII, built this huge facility in the late 12th to early 13th century, after driving enemy forces from his kingdom. A square wall with a side length of approximately 3 kilometres surrounds the holy city of Angkor Thom. We visit Bayon, the central temple of Angkor Thom. Bayon has several towers and its most impressive features are the stunning, metre-high, stone-carved faces of the Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara. After lunch in a local restaurant, we have the opportunity to visit the lesser known sites hidden in the forest on foot and by bike. The Phimeanakas Temple is reached by a short walk through the jungle and is a 3-tiered laterite pyramid. This temple is said to have been the home of a spirit who, each night, took the form of a beautiful woman and was visited by the Khmer Kings. At dinner, we will be entertained by traditional Khmer Apsara dancers. We spend our final night at the hotel in Siem Reap.

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

B L

Ascent

40 M

Descent

40 M

Time

2 hrs cycling

Distance

20 KM

After breakfast at the hotel, we have a short ride to Tonie Sap Lake, where we board the public speedboat which will take us on the Sangkae River to Battambang. The Tonle Sap (Khmer: Great Lake) is the largest lake in South-East Asia and one of the most productive inland waters of the earth. The inhabitants of the stilted floating villages on the Tonle Sap live mainly from fishing and growing vegetables in the same way that their families have for generations. These villages are primarily Khmer and have around 3000 inhabitants between them. Travelling by boat is a simple, yet rewarding way to gain an insight into the lifestyles of these Cambodian people, whose livelihoods are dependant on the lake and river. Depending on water levels, our journey takes between 6 and 8 hours. During particularly dry conditions it may be necessary to make part of this transfer by road. There will the opportunity to stretch our legs during the journey. Overnight at a hotel in Battambang.

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

B L D

Ascent

10 M

Descent

10 M

Time

1 hr cycling

Distance

10 KM

After breakfast, we cycle through traditional riverside villages and across a scenic landscape, to the 11th century temple of Wat Ek (10 kilometres north-west of Battambang) which is a popular pilgrimage and picnic site for Khmers. After lunch, we leave Battambang province and drive along the Tonle Sap to the easy-going town of Kampong Chhnang. Literally translated, Kampong Chhnang means 'Clay Pot Port' and it is famous for its distinctive pottery. Kampong province was important during the French period for the production of rubber. In the late afternoon, we stroll by the river port, with its floating houses and numerous fishing boats and can get a real feel for traditonal Cambodia. Overnight at a hotel in Kampong Chhnang.

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

B L D

Ascent

20 M

Descent

20 M

Time

2 - 3 hrs cycling

Distance

25 KM

Today's pleasant morning ride takes us through paddy fields and plantations fringed with palm trees. Small villages along the way produce attractive pottery and we have chance to stop and peruse their wares. In the afternoon, we leave the Kampong province and transfer (4 to 5 hrs) to the former French colonial town of Kampot, famous for its endless rice fields and Kampot pepper. Overnight in a bungalow beside the Kampot River.

Accommodation

Bungalow

Meals

B L D

Ascent

50 M

Descent

50 M

Time

3 hrs cycling

Distance

30 KM

After breakfast, we cycle along the coast and across salt flats to Kep. Here, we find a fusion of faded French Indo-China and a real seaside atmosphere, set beside a tropical sea. From the 1930's right up until the Khmer Rouge period, Kep was a popular place for wealthy travellers and a stroll along its promenade is testament to its rather 'swisher' past. From Kep, we take a 30 minute boat ride to Koh Tonsay or Rabbit Island, (locals say it resembles a rabbit). The main beach on the island is a 250 metre, palm fringed stretch and after our full-on adventures in Cambodia we have definitely earned the right for some full-on R&R! In the evening, we return to our bungalow accommodation at Kampot.

Accommodation

Bungalow

Meals

B L D

Ascent

20 M

Descent

20 M

Time

2 hrs cycling

Distance

25 KM

The day begins with a 4-hour drive to Andoung Teuk where we board a traditional wooden boat for the journey into the Cardomom Mountains. Heading upstream on the Piphot River, it takes a couple of hours or so to reach our destination, the village of Chi Phat, which has a population of around three thousand. On arrival, we'll stretch our legs with a short cycle ride around the village, ending up at a good place to watch the sunset. We overnight at a local community project homestay in Chi Phat.

Accommodation

Homestay

Meals

B L D

Ascent

40 M

Descent

40 M

Time

1 hr cycling

Distance

10 KM

Located in the southern Cardamom Mountains, Chi Phat is at the heart of South-East Asia's largest remaining tract of rainforest. Whilst poachers and loggers used to operate in this area, the establishment of the Wildlife Alliance in 2002 effectively put a stop on their activities. A large community-based ecotourism project, using local labour to actively regenerate the area was set up. This has included reforestation projects to encourage the wildlife to return to the region. The people of Chi Phat are directly involved and the village benefits from this involvement. Cycling on hidden trails through the jungle, there is a lot of up and down and some sections where we will have to push our bikes. We also have the chance to swim in the clear waters of an idyllic natural pool below O'Malu Waterfall. We will also visit the Village of O'Kay, set amongst lush rainforest and banana plantations, where elephants often feed. We spend a second night at the homestay in Chi Phat.

Accommodation

Homestay

Meals

B L D

Ascent

300 M

Descent

300 M

Time

3 - 4 hrs cycling

Distance

30 KM

After breakfast, we drive back across country (4 hours) to the country's capital, Phnom Penh. Rising from its troubled past, Phnom Penh is very much on the 'up', alive and a real feast for the senses in every respect. Situated beside the Tonle Sap River, the waterfront is crowded with Cambodians every evening and this provides an excellent way of 'getting in amongst it' and immersing ourselves in the local culture. Our city tour will include the distinctive structure of the Royal Palace and a visit to the Silver Pagoda and National Museum. Alternatively, the Russian and French markets can be an option for those keen to practice their haggling skills! At sunset, we take a boat ride on the Mekong. The chocolate-coloured waters of the Tonle Sap and the Mekong are the real lifeblood of the city and from the river we can admire the Phnom Penh skyline and its Royal Palace, as the sun goes down. Overnight at a hotel in Phnom Penh.

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

B L

Your holiday ends after breakfast. A single group transfer to Phnom Penh Airport is provided.

Meals

B
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Essential Information

We've compiled some of our Frequently Asked Questions to help you learn more about this amazing trip.

  • English-speaking professional cycle guide guide
  • A single group airport transfer on arrival and departure days
  • Transfers by car and boat as required
  • A support vehicle and driver
  • All accommodation as described
  • Meals as per the Meal Plan
  • Trek 3700 (or Giant equivalent) mountain bike

  • Travel insurance
  • Some meals as per the Meal Plan
  • Cycling helmet (bring your own)
  • Tips
  • Visa
  • Temple fees
  • Miscellaneous personal expenses
  • Bike Carriage on the flights - please check with your carrier for charges

The group will meet at the hotel in Siem Reap.

A single transfer from Siem Reap Airport is provided on Day 1 of the Land Only itinerary.

On the last day of the Land Only itinerary, there will be a single transfer from the hotel in Phnom Penh to Phnom Penh Airport.

Anyone may join the group transfers by prior arrangement. Travelling as a group or on public transport saves energy. If this is not practical, we can provide private transfers at an additional cost. Taxis are also available.

Hotel contact details and an emergency number will be provided with your booking confirmation.

All meals are included except one dinner in Siem Reap (Day 6) and dinner in Phnom Penh on the penultimate day of the Land Only itinerary.

It is not recommended to drink untreated water from the taps. If you are on a trekking or cycling holiday, water is supplied to fill up your individual bottles. This will be boiled, filtered or provided in large jerry cans or 5 litre bottles. Additionally you should take purification tablets or a filter bottle (such as a Water-To-Go bottle) to treat your water when in towns or where water is not supplied. We do not encourage the purchasing of single use plastic bottles.

Wherever we travel in Cambodia, we will find a wide variety of cuisine is available including French, Italian, Indian, Chinese, Thai, and Vietnamese. In smaller towns and villages, local food such as ‘charcoal chicken’, ‘sticky rice’ and ‘fried fish’ will commonly be offered. Cambodian food tends not to be as hot or spicy as Thai. The most popular fast food in Cambodia, often served from street stalls, is the Chinese noodle soup or `pho`.

There are 4 nights at a hotel in Siem Reap, 1 night in Battambang, 1 night in Kampong Chhnang and 1 night in Phnom Penh. There is one night in a homestay and one night camping in the Phnom Kulen National Park, 2 nights in a homestay (or simple guesthouse) at the village of Chi Phat and 2 nights in bungalow accommodation on the Kampot River.

An English-speaking locally-based biking leader will accompany the group. There will also be a support vehicle and driver.

We suggest that $250 - $300 should be sufficient to cover your personal and incidental expenses including the 2 non-included meals (lunch and dinner) when in Phnom Penh, as well as the cost of your Cambodian Visa ($20) which you will pay for on arrival at Siem Reap Airport. This amount will also allow you to pay reasonable tips to your local guide, drivers and other local staff (allow approximately $70). And, should also cover refreshments, optional tours and other miscellaneous expenses. Temple Fees. Please note that you will need to pay these fees locally and will need to budget accordingly. These fees total approximately $100 (June 2023). We recommend that you carry your travel money in the form of US dollars cash as this is most easily exchanged. If you are intending to buy expensive souvenirs or considerable quantities of soft drinks or beer, you should budget accordingly. You can withdraw cash from ATM's (using a debit or credit card) in Siem Reap and in Phnom Penh.

Tips are the accepted way of saying ‘thank you’ to your local guide and other local staff. They do not form part of their wages. KE always pays local crews the best rates of pay, no matter what country they are in and any tips they receive are seen as a personal thank you from group members. We advise our local teams that tips are a bonus and entirely dependent on the service that they provide. We suggest that you allow a total of $50 (per group member) for tipping your local staff.

Bikes are provided locally within the cost of the holiday. Our agent in Cambodia provides Trek 3700 (or similar) bikes with front suspension, V-brakes and Shimano components which come in a full range of sizes. The bikes are well-maintained and in good condition. They are fitted with flat pedals. Please provide us with your height when you book, so we can make sure that a bike of the appropriate size is made available to you. Bike helmets are provided with the bikes, but you might choose to take your own.

This is a leisurely biking holiday and we rarely cover more than 10 or 15 kilometres, before stopping to look around at one or other of Cambodia's tourist sites. We do, however, have a support vehicle which will follow the group at a discreet distance, carrying water and the group's day-packs, as well as service items and repair kits for the bikes. Anyone who chooses not to ride a section of the itinerary can take a ride in the support vehicle instead.

We recommend that you travel with one main item of luggage, such as a KE Trek Bag or similar holdall, as well as a small day pack or mountain bike-specific hydration pack. The day pack can be used to carry valuable items such as cameras and GPS devices whilst travelling and will also carry your day-ride essentials during the rides.

For each holiday there is a minimum number of participants required to enable it to go ahead. Once the minimum number is reached, the trip status will change from 'Available' to 'Guaranteed to run'. You can check the trip status for each departure in the ‘Dates and Prices’ table. Other than in exceptional circumstances, we will not cancel a trip once it has achieved this guaranteed to run status so you are free to proceed with your international flight booking and other travel arrangements.

The information that we provide is for UK passport holders. A passport with 6 months remaining validity at the end of your stay is generally required, and you should have at least 2 blank pages for each country that you visit.

It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the correct travel documents and visas for your holiday. Please ensure that you check for the latest advice before travel. For the most up to date information on entry requirements, please visit the UK Government website.

Visa Cambodia

UK and USA passport holders do require a visa. The visa fee is $30 and the visa can be picked up on arrival at the international airport or at the land border if crossing into Cambodia from Vietnam. Payment must be made in cash, your passport must have 6 months remaining validity and you need 2 passport photographs.  You can apply for an e-visa prior to departure online at https://www.evisa.gov.kh/. The e-visa fee is $30 + $7 processing charge. The e-visa may not be valid if crossing into Cambodia at a land border - please check.

e-ARRIVAL REGISTRATION - PRE-DEPARTURE - IMPORTANT

The Cambodian authorities now require travellers to go through this e-Arrival procedure at least a week before arrival in Cambodia.

Download the official E-arrival app: https://arrival.gov.kh/

Enter your personal information and travel details.

Receive a confirmation email with a QR code.

Show the QR code to the immigration officer upon arrival.

We do keep our information up to date but be advised that visa requirements are subject to change. It is recommended that you contact the relevant commission in case of recent alterations.

If you have a severe allergy please inform the KE office before you travel. We will do all we can to help, but we cannot guarantee an allergy free environment on KE trips. You will need to carry your own treatment for the allergy with you, as 'adrenaline auto-injectors' are not carried as standard by KE leaders and staff. You should inform your leader on arrival of your allergy, and let them know where you keep your adrenaline pen.

Dengue fever is a known risk in places visited. It is a tropical viral disease spread by daytime biting mosquitoes. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available and therefore the best form of prevention is to avoid being bitten. We recommend you take precautions to avoid mosquito bites.

VACCINATIONS

You should contact your doctor or travel clinic to check whether you require any specific vaccinations or other preventive measures. You should be up to date with routine courses and boosters as recommended in the UK e.g. diphtheria-tetanus-polio and measles-mumps-rubella, along with hepatitis A and typhoid. Malarial prophylaxis are required. On holidays to more remote areas you should also have a dentist check up. A good online resource is Travel Health Pro.

The unit of currency in Cambodia is the Riel.

The better conditioned you are the more you will enjoy your trip. We suggest that you adopt a sensible weekly exercise regime and fit in a number of long cycle rides in hilly country to ensure you are physically capable of taking part in this trip - this will also provide you with an opportunity to make sure all your riding kit is tried and tested before you travel. Cycling is obviously the best activity to prepare for this trip,.However, running, squash and swimming are also good for developing aerobic fitness and stamina.

Cambodia has a tropical climate, with a rainy season from June to September. The hottest months are just before the monsoon, in April and May. From October through to April there is little rain and from December through to March is the `cool` season although it rarely gets cold. Daytime temperatures will hover around a humid 30 degrees centigrade, falling to the low 20's at night.

As a reputable tour operator, KE supports the British Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office's ‘Travel Aware campaign to enable British citizens to prepare for their journeys overseas. The 'Travel Aware' website provides a single, authoritative source of advice for all kinds of travellers and we recommend that before travel, all KE clients visit the official UK Government website at travelaware.campaign.gov.uk and read the FCDO Travel Advice for their chosen destination. North Americans can also check out the U.S. Department of State website: www.travel.state.gov for essential travel advice and tips.

KE treat the safety and security of all clients as the most important aspect of any trip we organise. We would not run any trip that we did not consider reasonably safe.  Should the FCDO advise against travel for any reason, we will contact everyone booked to travel to discuss the situation.  We receive regular updates directly from the FCDO and are in constant touch with our contacts on the ground.  If you have any questions about government travel advice, please call our office.

KE do not encourage the use of single use plastic items. We are ensuring that our agents all over the world are working together to reduce the problem and educate those around them. We are leading by example in our KE office by reducing our plastic use.

  • Cambodia. Lonely Planet

  • Laos and Cambodia. Insight Guides

  • Angkor. Odyssey Books

  • Travels in Siam, Cambodia & Laos (Henry Mouhot)

  • Angkor ; An Introduction to the Temples (D. Rooney)

  • A Guide to the Angkor Monuments (Maurice Glaize)

Reise-Know-How Verlag. Cambodia. 1:500,000

Indexed, waterproof and tear-resistant road map of Cambodia with topographic and tourist information, including street plans of central Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, plus an enlargement for the Angkor area.

It is an essential condition of joining a holiday with KE Adventure Travel that you have a valid travel insurance policy to cover the cost of medical treatment and to protect the value of your holiday in the event of cancellation.  When taking out insurance please ensure the policy you choose covers you for the activities and altitude included in your itinerary.

For appropriate insurance cover we recommend Campbell Irvine Direct.  Please go to our Travel Insurance page for further information and to get a quote.

This holiday is part of our Explore International range. Participants on these trips can book through KE or through one of our international partners. This helps us to gather together sufficient numbers of like-minded adventurers to get your holiday up and running quickly. Led by an English-speaking guide, the cosmopolitan nature of these groups can be an important part of the experience!

For this holiday you will need normal cycling clothing, including suitable shoes, cycling gloves and a helmet (which must be worn at all times when cycling).

Dress Code at Angkor Wat

In July 2016, a new Code of Conduct was introduced for all temple visits in Cambodia. The key elements of the new Dress Code that we have to adhere to is that shoulders should be covered and shorts or skirts should reach below the knees. If you don't have suitable below knee-length cycling shorts, take a pair of loose, lightweight trousers to wear over you cycling shorts when visiting temples.

Bike Gear

  • Cycling helmet

  • Trainers or stiff-soled cycling shoes

  • Daypack or mountain bike-specific hydration pack (e.g. Camelbak)

  • Water bladder - min. 2 litres water capacity (we encourage re-filling water bottles rather than single use plastic)

  • Water purification tablets

  • Padded (baggy) cycling shorts

  • Base-layer – short sleeve cycling tops

  • Mid-layer - long sleeved cycling tops

  • Fleece jacket or jumper

  • Lightweight waterproof jacket

  • Regular biking gloves

  • Sunglasses

  • Sun cream (inc. total bloc for lips/nose)

  • Camera

Other Stuff

  • Travel and off-the-bike clothing and footwear

  • Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing - see note above - to cover up during temple visits

  • Wash bag, towel, toiletries, including anti-bacterial handwash

  • Sheet sleeping bag for use at the homestay

  • Swimwear

  • Basic First Aid kit and personal medication

  • Reusable cloth bag for shopping (to avoid plastic bags)

Tools and spares

You do not need to take any tools or spares. The local guide will take care of any and all issues.

Please contact us if you have any questions about your equipment.

Cotswold Outdoor Red PantonMany of the Equipment items listed above are available from Cotswold Outdoor - our 'Official Recommended Outdoor Retailer'. When you book a holiday with KE you will receive 12.5% discount voucher from Cotswold Outdoor and other retailers.
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Reviews

5 out of 5 from 3 reviews

Exciting and Fun Filled Adventure in Cambodia ★★★★★

This was a wonderful tour for travelers who like active and immersive holidays. The tour is fast paced and covers a wide cross section of Cambodia. We had an excellent guide who took countless opportunities to add spontaneous interactions each day with local Cambodians going about their daily lives. This made the trip so much more enriching to help us understand the culture. In addition, our guide had an excellent knowledge of the architectural, political, and religious history of this country. Our trail bike rentals were good quality with good service from the driver and mechanic when needed. Cambodia roads are mostly rugged dirt paths, so trail bikes are a must. Rides are 20 to 25km per day, but the rough roads and trails make it a solid workout. Rides this length gave the right amount of time to see all the sites that are on the itinerary. The planned tour strikes an excellent balance of active biking and immersion into Cambodian history and culture. Do bring a pair of water socks if you are a swimmer. You are going to want to swim in all of the waterfalls you visit as they are spectacular and unspoiled!
By James from Hopewell | 15 December 2022

October 2018

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By Lyndsey from Derby | 11 November 2018

Bike tour of Cambodia October/November

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By Lois from Tacoma | 14 November 2016

A trip of variety ★★★★★

An excellent trip with lots of variety. This is described as an easy cycling holiday and I would certainly agree with that. Whilst the heat and humidity makes the cycling harder, our trip leader was excellent at ensuring we took regular breaks and drank enough water. As a result, this was very manageable. There is a good variety of cycling, temple sightseeing, exploring, swimming, kayaking, and leisure time throughout the trip. I would recommend that you check with KE regarding the kit list befo re you travel as we took lots of spare parts which were not required by the support crew. Also, for us, specialist cycling shoes/shorts/gloves were not required and therefore I would suggest that you simply take whatever you are comfortable cycling in. As you cycle on backroads, these can be very dusty and you can end up very dusty and dirty at the end of each day.
By Richard from LINLITHGOW | 04 January 2016

A varied holiday with biking through Cambodian villages and temples. ★★★★★

Great biking holiday. The cycling can be a bit more demanding than the grade 2 suggests due to the heat and the possible pace of the group although the back up team always are on hand to provide the option of a lift in the support vehicle. A great itinerary providing a variety of experiences of temples, villages and landscapes including some river trips with fascinating floating villages. An excellent local guide worked very hard to look after the group. Some accommodation was a bit unsatisfacto ry but our guide was anxious to receive our feedback and clearly looking to explore future improvements.
By John from NORMANTON | 22 November 2015

Traveller Reviews
5 out of 5 from 5 reviews

Exciting and Fun Filled Adventure in Cambodia
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
This was a wonderful tour for travelers who like active and immersive holidays. The tour is fast paced and covers a wide cross section of Cambodia. We had an excellent guide who took countless opportunities to add spontaneous interactions each day with local Cambodians going about their daily lives. This made the trip so much more enriching to help us understand the culture. In addition, our guide had an excellent knowledge of the architectural, political, and religious history of this country. Our trail bike rentals were good quality with good service from the driver and mechanic when needed. Cambodia roads are mostly rugged dirt paths, so trail bikes are a must. Rides are 20 to 25km per day, but the rough roads and trails make it a solid workout. Rides this length gave the right amount of time to see all the sites that are on the itinerary. The planned tour strikes an excellent balance of active biking and immersion into Cambodian history and culture. Do bring a pair of water socks if you are a swimmer. You are going to want to swim in all of the waterfalls you visit as they are spectacular and unspoiled!
By James from Hopewell | 15 December 2022

October 2018

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By Lyndsey from Derby | 11 November 2018

Bike tour of Cambodia October/November

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By Lois from Tacoma | 14 November 2016

A trip of variety
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
An excellent trip with lots of variety. This is described as an easy cycling holiday and I would certainly agree with that. Whilst the heat and humidity makes the cycling harder, our trip leader was excellent at ensuring we took regular breaks and drank enough water. As a result, this was very manageable. There is a good variety of cycling, temple sightseeing, exploring, swimming, kayaking, and leisure time throughout the trip. I would recommend that you check with KE regarding the kit list befo re you travel as we took lots of spare parts which were not required by the support crew. Also, for us, specialist cycling shoes/shorts/gloves were not required and therefore I would suggest that you simply take whatever you are comfortable cycling in. As you cycle on backroads, these can be very dusty and you can end up very dusty and dirty at the end of each day.
By Richard from LINLITHGOW | 04 January 2016

A varied holiday with biking through Cambodian villages and temples.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Great biking holiday. The cycling can be a bit more demanding than the grade 2 suggests due to the heat and the possible pace of the group although the back up team always are on hand to provide the option of a lift in the support vehicle. A great itinerary providing a variety of experiences of temples, villages and landscapes including some river trips with fascinating floating villages. An excellent local guide worked very hard to look after the group. Some accommodation was a bit unsatisfacto ry but our guide was anxious to receive our feedback and clearly looking to explore future improvements.
By John from NORMANTON | 22 November 2015

DATES & PRICES

Private Departure?

Gather a few friends, family or club and take over your own departure.

2024

Dates

Adults from

Deposit

Status

More Information

  • Backroads of Cambodia Bike
    Without Flights
  • Departure Reference: CAMB/02/24/
  • This trip begins on Sun 27 Oct and ends on Sat 9 Nov
  • This departure is available and departs within 18 days. Secure your place today with full payment
  • Single Supplement Price: US$680
  • Download Trip Notes

2025

Dates

Adults from

Deposit

Status

More Information

  • Backroads of Cambodia Bike
    Without Flights
  • Departure Reference: CAMB/01/25/
  • This trip begins on Sun 23 Feb and ends on Sat 8 Mar
  • This departure is available to book. Secure your place today with a deposit of US$425
  • Single Supplement Price: US$680
  • Download Trip Notes

More Information

  • Backroads of Cambodia Bike
    Without Flights
  • Departure Reference: CAMB/02/25/
  • This trip begins on Sun 26 Oct and ends on Sat 8 Nov
  • This departure is available to book. Secure your place today with a deposit of US$425
  • Single Supplement Price: US$680
  • Download Trip Notes

More Information

  • Backroads of Cambodia Bike
    Without Flights
  • Departure Reference: CAMB/03/25/
  • This trip begins on Sun 30 Nov and ends on Sat 13 Dec
  • This departure is available to book. Secure your place today with a deposit of US$425
  • Single Supplement Price: US$680
  • Download Trip Notes

Land Only Information

The LAND ONLY dates and prices are for the itinerary starting at the hotel in Siem Reap. A single group transfer is included from Siem Reap Airport. The holidays ends in Phnom Penh and a single group transfer to Phnom Penh Airport is included.

ZEN_HOLIDAY_DATES_PRICES_LAND_ONLY_USD_NOTICE

BOOK WITH KE CONFIDENCE - No surcharge guarantee

The price of our holidays can change depending on a variety of factors but unlike some other tour operators, KE have undertaken to guarantee the Land Only price of your holiday will not change after you have booked. The price when you book is the price you will pay, whether you are booking for this year or the next. Book early to avoid any tour price increases, get the best flight prices and take advantage of our 'No Surcharge Guarantee'.

KE Adventure is a fully bonded tour operator. We hold an ATOL license (No: 2808) and are bonded with ABTA (Membership No: W4341)


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