Cambodia Cycling Adventure Holiday

Day 1: Arrival in Siem Reap

Arrive in Siem Reap (SAI) and settle in. Enjoy a leisurely day before a welcome dinner featuring authentic Khmer cuisine and a full trip briefing. No cycling is scheduled for the day..

Day 2: The Magnificent Temples of Angkor

Begins in Siem Reap with an early morning cycle to Angkor Wat to witness a breathtaking sunrise. The morning is dedicated to exploring the vast temple complex, including Angkor Thom, the iconic Bayon with its smiling faces, and the mystical, tree-entangled Ta Prohm, all navigated via backroads and jungle trails. The cycling distance for the day is approximately 30–45 km over flat, mixed terrain. In the afternoon, participants often visit a local NGO project, offering insight into community initiatives. This day combines the awe-inspiring history and architecture of Angkor with an active exploration of the surrounding landscape and a touch of local engagement.

Day 3: River Ride and Boat Trip to Battambang

Cycling out of Siem Reap towards the massive Tonle Sap Lake, covering approximately 40–50 km over flat, mixed terrain. Participants then board a scenic longtail boat (or take a vehicle transfer) to navigate the wetlands and Tonle Sap River, observing unique floating and stilt villages. After disembarking, the journey continues by cycling along quiet backroads into the charming colonial city of Battambang. This day offers a blend of active exploration and cultural immersion, showcasing the diverse landscapes and traditional life along the Tonle Sap.

Day 3: River Ride and Boat Trip to Battambang

This day begins with a 40-50 km cycle from Siem Reap towards the vast Tonle Sap Lake, traversing flat, mixed terrain. Participants will then experience a scenic longtail boat journey (or vehicle transfer) across the wetlands and Tonle Sap River, offering a unique glimpse into the lives of those in floating and stilt villages. Upon disembarking, the adventure continues with a cycle along tranquil backroads, leading to the charming colonial city of Battambang. This immersive day beautifully combines active exploration with cultural insights, highlighting the diverse landscapes and traditional riverside life along the Tonle Sap.

Day 4: Rural Life and Local Projects

This day's journey takes you from Battambang to Pursat, covering an approximate cycling distance of 50-60 km over flat, mixed terrain of paved and dirt roads. The highlights include an immersive exploration of the Battambang countryside, where you'll witness local industries such as traditional rice paper making. You'll also cycle to historical attractions like the hill-top ruin of Banan Temple, offering a glimpse into Cambodia's rich past. The adventure then continues as you cycle or transfer to the provincial town of Pursat, with an enriching option to visit a local community project, providing insight into the region's social initiatives. This day offers a blend of active exploration and cultural discovery, showcasing rural Cambodian life.

Day 5: The Final Push to the Capital

Embark on the longest ride of the trip, cycling 70-80 km from Pursat to Phnom Penh. This journey takes you along scenic backroads and dirt tracks that trace the Tonle Sap River, offering breathtaking views of rural villages and expansive rice fields. Experience unique small ferry crossings as you make your way to the bustling capital. Conclude your active day (or opt for a short transfer) at your hotel, nestled in the vibrant heart of Phnom Penh, ready to explore the city's rich history and culture. This day promises an immersive experience of Cambodia's diverse landscapes and local life.

Day 6: Culture, History, and Silk Island

This day in Phnom Penh offers a blend of cultural immersion and historical reflection, with an approximate cycling distance of 30 km over flat, mixed terrain. The morning begins with a scenic ferry ride to Silk Island (Koh Dach), where you'll cycle along peaceful trails and visit traditional silk weaving houses, gaining insight into this ancient craft. The afternoon shifts to a more somber but essential experience, dedicated to the city's poignant history with a visit to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21). This day provides a comprehensive look into Cambodia's rich cultural heritage and its challenging past, offering a deeply moving and educational experience.

Day 7: Cycling to the South

This day begins with an early morning vehicle transfer, taking you out of Phnom Penh's bustling city traffic. From there, you'll embark on a scenic 60-70 km cycle along quiet secondary roads, winding through the picturesque Cambodian countryside. As you pedal towards the charming riverside town of Kampot, you'll be treated to distant, breathtaking views of the majestic Elephant Mountains. This journey offers a serene and active exploration of Cambodia's diverse landscapes, blending the tranquility of rural life with the excitement of an invigorating ride. The flat, mixed terrain ensures an enjoyable experience for cyclists as they make their way to the beautiful southern town.

Day 8: Bokor Mountain Challenge (Optional)

In Kampot, cyclists face the trip's ultimate challenge: an optional 40-80 km ride up Bokor Mountain. This demanding ascent leads to an abandoned French hill station, offering a significant test for those seeking adventure. For a less strenuous experience, participants can opt for a support van ride to the summit and cycle back down, or simply enjoy a relaxing day exploring the charming town of Kampot. This day provides flexibility, catering to both avid cyclists and those who prefer a more leisurely pace, all while surrounded by the scenic beauty of the region.

Day 9: Pepper and Crab

This day offers a leisurely 30-40 km cycle from Kampot to Kep, traversing flat, mixed terrain through the picturesque coastal landscape. A key highlight is a visit to a certified Kampot Pepper Farm, where you'll have the opportunity to learn about the cultivation of this world-renowned spice and enjoy a tasting. The journey then continues to Kep, a serene former French resort town. Kep is celebrated for its vibrant seafood market and the culinary delight of Pepper Crab, which is a must-try for any visitor. This day perfectly blends active exploration with unique cultural and gastronomic experiences, showcasing the best of Cambodia's southern coast.

Day 10: Mangroves and Return to Phnom Penh

This day features a short morning cycle of approximately 30 km along flat dirt tracks, leading to a charming fishing village situated near the Vietnam border. Here, you'll have the opportunity to explore local salt fields and potentially participate in a mangrove reforestation project, offering a unique insight into the region's natural environment and community efforts. Following a delightful coastal lunch, you'll embark on a comfortable vehicle transfer back to Phnom Penh, a journey of approximately 4–5 hours. The day concludes with a final evening dinner in the capital, providing a perfect end to your Cambodian adventure. This day blends active exploration with cultural and environmental discovery, culminating in a relaxing return to the city.

Day 11: Departure

Your Cambodian adventure concludes with a final breakfast in Phnom Penh. This day is designed for your leisure, offering ample time for any last-minute souvenir shopping or sightseeing you might wish to do. When you're ready, a transfer will take you to Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH) for your onward flight, marking the end of your memorable journey. There is no cycling scheduled for this day, allowing for a relaxed departure.