| Number of Cycling Days: 6 Days | Total Cycling Distance: 320 Km |
| Accommodation: Included | Bike Hire: Included |
| Single Supplement: Supplement Charge | Tour Code: CAM – CBA |
| Next departure: 08th August, 2024 | Difficulty: Moderate |
Discover the real Cambodia on this 11 days Cambodia Backroads Adventure that will see you pedal through some of the land’s most rural and scenic landscapes. Starting off in the historic capital of Phnom Penh, we first pause to learn of the country’s tragic history before embarking on bike to uncover the many varied and beautiful layers Cambodia has to offer. Cycling through the port town of Kampong Chhang and colonial Battambang, we also ride through remote villages, across gentle rivers and along quiet rural paths that dot the countryside. Expect to be warmly welcomed by the locals as we ride before ending our rewarding journey in Siem Reap to explore the magnificent Angkor Wat by bike!
Day 1: Phnom Penh Arrival
Welcome to Phnom Penh! Our local guide and driver will welcome you at Phnom Penh Airport then transfer you to your comfortable hotel. The rest of the day enjoy at your own leisure.
Day 2: Phnom Penh city tour
Experience Cambodia’s rich culture and history, starting with a visit to the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, overlooking the confluence of the Mekong and Tonle Sap Rivers. Built in 1866, the palace is home to the reigning monarch and includes the coronation hall, an open air theatre for the Royal Dance Troupe, and the Silver Pagoda, featuring a floor covered with 5,000 silver tiles.
Next, visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, once Security Prison 21 and the largest detention and torture center in the country during the Khmer Rouge regime. The museum offers a chilling look at the atrocities committed against political prisoners and everyday Cambodians. Then, travel to Choeung Ek – the Killing Fields, where more than 17,000 men, women and children were brutally executed. Though the mass grave pits are gone, a stupa filled with skulls serves as a haunting memorial. Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in Cambodia’s fascinating history and culture.
Day 3: Phnom Penh – Kampong Chhnang (Cycling 85Km)
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city on our cycling tour from Udong to Kampong Chhnang. We’ll transfer 15km out of the city before cycling on scenic back roads to Udong, the former capital of Cambodia in the 18th century. Marvel at the historic king stupas that still stand tall on the hill. Take a break and savor a picnic lunch at a local restaurant before continuing on to ride on dirt roads and experience the local Bamboo train. Finally, cycle the last 30km on peaceful back roads to Kampong Chhnang. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore Cambodia’s rich history and stunning countryside.
Day 4: Kampong Chhnang – Pursat
On day 5, join us for exciting day cycling from Kampong Chhnang to Pursat, where you’ll experience the unique beauty of Cambodia’s countryside. We’ll transfer 20 minutes to Kdol before starting our challenging 4km dirt road journey with occasional potholes and stream crossings (during the rainy season). Stop at the local village to learn more about Cambodian culture and lifestyle. After lunch in Bomnok, continue to cycle to Krakor, where we’ll regroup before crossing National Road No.5 to visit Kampong Luong’s charming floating village, less crowded than its Siem Reap Angkor counterpart. Our cycling ends after visiting Kampong Luong, and we’ll transfer the last 30 minutes to Pursat for your comfort and safety.
Day 5: Pursat – Battambang
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel before embarking on an unforgettable cycling journey from your hotel in Pursat to Battambang. Follow the Prek Chik, one of the longest man-made canals in Cambodia, stretching 60km long. Built during the Khmer Rouge regime in the late 1970s, the canal is a reminder of Cambodia’s tragic history. Learn about the forced labor and starvation that caused the deaths of almost 3 million people during this period. After reaching Prek Chik, we’ll turn right towards Moung Roussei, then transfer to Battambang for your safety and comfort. If time allows, we’ll take you to Phnom Sampov for a stunning sunset view. Join us for an emotional and educational journey through Cambodia’s history and culture.
Day 6: Battambang – Siem Reap (By Boat)
After breakfast, we will transfer to the boat pier to catch the boat to Siem Reap, which takes around 6-7 hours to reach Siem Reap. Enjoy stunning views of the Sangker River and witness the daily activities of local fishermen as we cross Tonle Sap, Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake. The lake plays a crucial role in regulating water levels in Cambodia, preventing floods during the rainy season. Keep an eye out for the Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary, home to thousands of water birds.
Upon arrival at Chong Kneas floating village, we’ll explore this unique community where Cambodian, Muslim, and Vietnamese cultures intersect. Ride your bike for 15km through beautiful countryside to your comfortable hotel. Book now to experience this unforgettable journey!
Day 7: Cycle to Angkor Wat
Embark on an unforgettable Angkor Adventure Tour, starting with a scenic 30km bike ride to the ancient temple complex of Angkor Wat. Your expert local guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel, fitting you with a bike and providing a safety briefing before setting off through the Angkor pass checkpoint. As you cycle along the shady road, you’ll stop at several stunning temples, including Kravan, Banteay Kdei, and the famous Ta Phrom, adorned with enormous fig trees and creepers.
Explore the impressive ancient city of Angkor Thom, entering through its stone gate carved with elephants and giant faces. Continue to the iconic Bayon Temple, known for its enigmatic faces representing the provinces of the Great Khmer Empire. Don’t miss the intricate bas-reliefs of the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King.
Take a break at a local restaurant for a delicious Cambodian lunch before continuing your adventure to the gem of the Angkor complex, Angkor Wat. Your afternoon will be spent exploring this magnificent ancient temple, learning about its rich history and symbolic meaning.
After a day filled with incredible sights and experiences, return to your hotel, relishing in the memories of your unforgettable Angkor Adventure Tour.
Day 8: Cycle to Tonle Sap Lake – Kampong Pluk (50Km)
Today continue to explore the area around Siem Reap by cycling through the beautiful countryside to reach Kampong Phluk fishing village. This is a great opportunity to discover the local way of life in Siem Reap and meet some of the friendly locals who live in the area. Along the way, you’ll pass by the ancient Rolous group temples, which date back to the 9th century and were part of the Khmer city of Hariharalaya.
Once you reach Kampong Phluk, you’ll get to experience the unique livelihoods of the Cambodian people who live in the floating villages on the Tonle Sap lake. The boat trip on the lake will give you an up-close look at how families have adapted their lives to living on the water, and you’ll get to see the fishing techniques and other ways of life that have sustained these communities for generations.
After the boat trip, you’ll return to Siem Reap by private vehicle, ending another day of peaceful and insightful cycling away from the tourist crowds.
Day 9: Siem Reap Departure
The tour officially ends this morning. Hotel check out time is midday. We will arrange transfer from the hotel to the airport (Siem Reap) for your international flight home.
What’s Included
What’s Excluded
Guide
Your trip will be led by our local cycling tour guide. For groups of less than 5, your tour will be led by one English-speaking guide and a driver. For groups of 6 or more, you will have a Cycling Tour Leader, an English-speaking guide, drivers, and assistants to ensure a smooth and informative experience. Our guides are knowledgeable about the history, culture, and religion of the area and will share their insights with you during the tour.”
Bikes & Repairs
Ride in comfort on well-known makes of hybrid or mountain bikes, chosen specifically for the tour. Our guide carries a comprehensive tool kit and will assist with any bike issues, so all you need is a daypack for your personal items. Although we strive to be prepared for any bike repairs, we cannot guarantee that we will be equipped for all situations. If you plan to bring your own bike, please ensure that it is in good working order and consider having it fully serviced by a bike shop before the tour.”
Support Vehicle
Have peace of mind with our support vehicle always accompanying the tour. The vehicle will carry your luggage and provide a break if needed. The backup van will be with us every 15 km, offering a convenient stop for rest and relaxation.
Safety
Ensure your safety while on the tour by wearing a helmet, which is mandatory. Our tour guides are trained in first aid and emergency rescue, but ultimately, it’s your responsibility to take care of yourself while riding. Don’t compromise on safety, wear a helmet for a fun and secure experience.
Terrain
The Cambodia Backroads Adventure covers a mixture of terrains, including flat tarmac roads and dirt roads through the countryside and rural villages. You’ll enjoy scenic views as you leisurely cycle on back roads, with regular stops for snacks and drinks, and to take photos. Our guides are flexible and can accommodate riders of all levels. If you’re unable to complete the distance, you can opt to ride in the support vehicle.
Fitness Level
This tour is designed to accommodate cyclists of all levels of experience, fitness, and ages. The tour is tailored to suit all participants and is not a race. The guides can easily accommodate riders who are unable to complete the distance and they can jump into the support vehicle. The tour is focused on enjoying the challenges of cycling while respecting the limits of each participant.
Health and Medical conditions
It’s important to inform the tour guide of any medical conditions or any changes in health status before and during the tour to ensure the safety of everyone involved. The tour guide is trained in first aid and emergency rescue, but it’s still crucial for each participant to be aware of their own physical health and limit. This will help to ensure an enjoyable and safe cycling adventure for everyone.
Drinking
Keeping you hydrated is a job we take very seriously. Cold water, some energy-restoring local fruit, and soft drinks are included in the tour price while riding. Soft drinks and other beverages during meals are not included. Beer is freely available everywhere but is not included in the price.
Extra Expenses
Most of the things are included in the package tour, you might want to budget for food and drinks if you choose to head out at night, or additional activities. The cost of the activity depends on what you want to do. We would recommend you to bring a small cash of US$30 for incidentals.
Money
Thai baht and US dollars are widely used in Cambodia, especially in larger cities and towns. In smaller towns and villages, Cambodian riels are usually preferred. There are ATMs in most areas, however, machines dispense US dollars. The guides will be able to show you where the ATMs are. Spend riel before departing as no one will exchange them for you once you leave.
Solo Travellers
We have a wide mix of cyclists on our tours from couples, friends to solo travellers. Our prices are based on twin shared accommodation. If you sign up for one of our tours as a solo traveller we will share a twin room with another person of the same gender in your group. If you prefer to have your own room this is an option on most of our tours for an extra charge.
Passport and Visa
Visitors to Cambodia require a passport to enter the country and all travellers must hold a passport with the validation for 6 months after their planned exit from Cambodia.
Most nationalities can get a visa on arrival at Phnom Penh & Siem Reap international airports without prior registration. Visa issued on arrival for most nationalities, US $30/pax, please bring 1 passport photo. You can also get it in advance at; www.evisa.gov.kh
Travel insurance
It is compulsory for all participants to have travel insurance covering the duration of the tour. This insurance must cover against personal accident, death, medical expenses and repatriation. It is essential to bring a copy of your insurance policy with you and to give details to your tour guide at the beginning of the tour. In the event of an accident or illness, evacuation and treatment costs are the responsibility of the individual.
Climate
November in Cambodia is the start of the dry season; although the odd, short shower early in the month is not unusual. Comfortable temperatures (avg: 25 °C), low humidity and plenty of sunshine make this a popular time to travel in Cambodia. December is characterised by dry, sunny weather, low humidity and relatively cool temperatures (avg: 26 °C). In January Cambodia is well into its dry season. By August it is experiencing the rainy season, but this does not affect our cycling too much, as rain generally falls late afternoon or at night. The advantage of visiting Cambodia during the wet season is the vibrant spectacle of lush green rice fields and countryside.
Deposit
Once the trip is confirmed, we will be required you to pay a deposit to guarantee your booking with us. For the tours less than 7 days to the departure date, the deposit amount is 100% of the tour price, per person. For the tours more than 7 days to the departure date, the 30% of the tour price per person will be required.
Balance
The remaining balance must be paid 45 days before the departure date with fees for any bicycle rental(s), single supplement(s) and extra hotel nights.
Final Tour Confirmation
Our team will send you the final tour confirmation of our Cambodia Backroads Adventure, which includes personal details you provided us (including your flight information), visa application advice, a packing suggestion list and a detailed tour itinerary. It will also include a checklist to ensure you get everything ready for your holiday.
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