A Complete Guide to Cambodia Cycling

Cambodia, there’s no place quite like it anywhere else on the planet. A unique mix of historical, spiritual and natural elements make it a region full of geographical diversity and cultural complexity. And, when it comes to methods of exploration, nothing is quite like the freedom of exploring such a vibrant land than on two wheels. Here is everything you need to know in order to get the most out of Cambodia cycling.

Why Cambodia Cycling?

Cambodia has a unique magic thanks to its combination of historic temple complexes, jungle expanse, beautiful beaches, picturesque countryside and smiling local faces. It is home to one of the world’s most revered sites and the national symbol of Cambodia, the temple complex that is Angkor Wat. These are some of the most awe-inspiring remnants of history that you might ever get to see in your lifetime.

Cambodia is now emerging as a top cyclist destination. Cycle tours have grown very quickly over the past few years, and it is now possible to find yourself pedalling through rice paddies with the breeze in your hair just 15 minutes away from the stifling streets of Phnom Penh. You are free to simply lock your bike to a tree or a post and explore at your leisure. Cycling through Cambodia allows you to see the sights from a different vantage point, one that is up close and personal and can allow you to experience the ‘real’ side of this vibrant place and its people.

Before You Get There

Cambodia has its own specific set of border protection laws. Travel to this country also requires vaccinations. This is particularly important should you choose to embark on a cycling tour in more remote regions.

Visa and Passport

A visa (and passport) is required for most visitors to Cambodia. Note: a visa exemption does exist for those with a nationality belonging to Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Vietnam, Thailand and Indonesia (can stay in Cambodia for up to 30 days).

Vaccinations

At the top of your list of things to do when travelling to Cambodia is to get your required vaccinations. According to the official advice, this includes vaccines for Hepatitis A and Typhoid. This is due to food and water possibly being contaminated, especially in rural areas. You may also wish to consider shots for Hepatitis B, Japanese Encephalitis, Malaria, Rabies and Yellow Fever, plus Malaria tablets.

Safety

Cambodia is a developing country so when it comes to traffic, road signs and similar, there are some things you should definitely be aware of when it comes to cycling within its borders.

It’s a good idea to stick to some general guidelines for safe cycling in Cambodia. The first is to always cycle in a group. This means you will be a lot more visible to traffic. You also can’t rely on the traffic signs as in Cambodia (they exist as only a rough guide and not as an enforced reality like in most countries in the western world). You also need to ensure that you ride with confidence, otherwise you might come unstuck. So, your safest bet is to stick to an organised Cambodia biking tour.

You should also consider general precautions that are part and parcel of visiting Cambodia, like landmines and many other dangers. Also, be aware of government guidelines issued by your country of origin to keep abreast of current travel restrictions and official advice for travellers. Make sure you abide by cultural/religious observances to stay clear of any possible infringement of Cambodian custom and law, as some penalties can be more obscure/tougher than you might realise.

For more information on Cambodia, check out our Cambodia travel guide.

Perfect Timing for Cambodia Cycling

Cycling is an outdoor activity and inclement weather and environmental conditions play a major role in the enjoyment and practicality of Cambodia biking. You should be aware of the best times (and times to avoid) before embarking on a cycling tour.

Low Season

Cambodia’s low season is between March/April and June/September until October. These are the times of peak temperatures. So, it’s pretty obvious that this is not your best time to try Cambodia biking. If, for some reason, you do find yourself cycling during these months, ensure that your hydration is optimal (remember to purchase bottled water only).

Wet Season

The wet season is from around June/July to August. This is a time of rainfall and high humidity. Therefore, there is a lot of mud and also a fair chance of flooded streets. It is not an advisable time to plan a biking holiday in Cambodia.

High Season

The most popular time for tourists to visit Cambodia is from November to March, referred to as the high season. January through to December is the peak time for cyclists in the region. The weather is a bit cooler and breezier than any other time of the year, and it makes all the difference when you are cycling. Make sure you pre-book your accommodation and cycling tours, as you will be up against some competition.

Location Is Everything

They say location is everything, and nothing could be more true when it comes to Cambodian cycling. The most popular regions in Cambodia for cycling tours and established routes (in approximate descending order) are Siem reap, Phnom Penh, Battambang, Banteay Meanchey and Koh Kong. Customise this trip that covers Cambodian highlights and cycling.

Planning

Long before you set out on a cycling tour, or even travel to Cambodia, you’ll need to think about mapping your adventure. Start with overall information on the region to get a clue about where everything is situated. A good idea is to figure out which cycling tour sounds the most appealing, factoring in location and what your most productive course of action might be.

Hard Copy Maps

It would be advisable to get a copy of a Lonely Planet guidebook (Cambodia edition) to bring with you on your travels. This will assist in locations where there isn’t adequate wifi, and give you a good overall impression of the region.

Cambodia Cycling Routes

In terms of Cambodia cycling maps, you can use a bike route planner. You can find the perfect route to suit your bike. There are also popular routes already completed by other users that will give you a good idea of some of the more tried and tested (including distances).

The Route to Adventure

Cambodia is a great country for exploration by bicycle. An intrepid cyclist can find so many rewarding experiences gained by traversing the terrain in this totally unencumbered way. It allows for closer interaction with locals and new dirt tracks in remote parts of the country are currently being installed to make the experience so much easier.

Best Regions for Cambodia Cycling

Angkor Wat has to be one of the top experiences you could expect as a cyclist. You don’t have to pay anything to take your bike to this historical temple park. How amazing is that? You will see that many tourists leave their bikes at the site to go explore further, with many people enjoying a picnic by the moat that surrounds Angkor Wat.

Phnom Penh is a region that offers cycling tours that range from leisurely to competitive. Whether you opt for a half-day, the full-day or multi-day tour is entirely up to you. It’s the best of both worlds as you can hop on your bike and within a short time, the scenery will change from a bustling capital city to a rural picturesque landscape. The tours in this region are generally described as safe and the local people as very friendly.

Massive expanses of open space, scenic rice paddies and delightful examples of everyday rural life make Battambang a great place to explore on two wheels. You can easily rent a bicycle from local vendors for only one or two dollars per day. Or, there are plenty of organised cycling tours in the region, one even includes a visit to a bat cave.

Best Regions for Mountain Biking

The West Baray Cycle Circuit in Siem Reap is appropriate for mountain bikers. This 37 kilometres route exists mainly on unpaved roads with a flat profile. West Baray encompasses a giant reservoir constructed during the Khmer empire. At its centre is an island housing the West Mebon temple. With such wonders to explore, this region makes for a great place for a cycling expedition. After you are done, you can even relax in one of the hammocks by the lake.

Mondulkiri Province is a remote region with vast mountain biking opportunities. The wildlife here is incredible. Possible wildlife sightings include tigers, clouded leopards, elephants, sun bears and gibbons. The area supports eco-tourism and some of the cycling tours even include dinner prepared by local villagers.

The Cardamom Mountains hold a strong pull for those that love the sheer thrill of an intense mountain biking experience. You’ll be rewarded by a journey through one of Southeast Asia’s largest remaining rainforests. Just as exotic as their name suggests, the Cardamom Mountains are alive with a rare display of fauna and flora. However, be aware of undulating and craterous terrains. This is not for the faint-hearted.

The Right Equipment (And Advice)

Knowing how to plan for a ride, the right kind of bike and all the other essentials are very important. When cycling in a foreign country it pays to be prepared!

When it comes to Cambodia cycling it is generally advised that mountain bikes are your best option. A racer is a no-go. Reputable cycling tours offer the best equipment and support, so make sure you check reviews, talk to our Local Designers, and do your research before booking. General advice is to make sure the saddle fits your rear end. Please don’t forget to check the equipment out before you ride!

Roads in Cambodia are a mix of dirt and paved surfaces and there are a lot of potholes and, in the worst case, there can be a lot of silt (which can be slippery). There are a lot of new roads and routes that are being improved, but the downside of this is increased dust. There are usually some roadside repair guys in most towns to tighten a bolt or blow up your tyres.

If you’re planning on going mountain biking on more advanced routes make sure you have prior experience and build up your endurance before you leave, at least a few months in advance and with a gradual momentum. Work on your balance, your leg endurance and your upper body strength. You will need to know about braking and shifting and speed control.

You’ll need a good helmet, eyewear and a bicycle repair kit. Take insect repellent and plenty of sunscreens. Make sure you wear appropriate cycling clothing – a good pair of activewear shorts is a must. Plus, plenty of bottled water. Snacks from street vendors are readily available but always check hygiene standards.

If you’re planning to do multi-day cycling tours make sure you have provisions and safety gear with you. For safety reasons a first-aid kit is non-negotiable. You can also consider a torch, swiss army knife and emergency whistle. Please note: this is only applicable to remote cycling expeditions. Always exercise caution and stick to the safest and most reputable vendors.

On Ya Bike

Now that you have absorbed the most relevant of information and advice when it comes to Cambodian cycling, you can now set your sights on the amazing experience ahead. If you enjoy the rush and ‘free as a bird’ element to cycling and mountain biking then you’re going to appreciate adding the incredible landscape and culture of Cambodia to the mix. From picturesque countryside to the bustling city, to jungle wilderness, and smiling local faces, there’s so much fun to have on a ride in Cambodia.

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