Slow Road to Angkor

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Slow Road to Angkor

Scheduled Tour

Price

1490 USD

Duration

5 Days | 4 Nights

Level

Tour Code

GHTR10

VIEW TOUR DATES

Cycle Thailand to Cambodia, Bangkok to Siem Reap

Make the most of this incredible route by bike touring from Bangkok to Angkor, the ultimate way to travel between these popular destinations. Along the way experience rural life, diverse scenery, friendly hospitality, exciting cycling, and delicious food, all of which make this an unforgettable adventure.

Quality Bikes
Cannondale CX3

Your Guide
Friendly local leaders

Group Size
2 to 14

Accommodation
Comfortable hotels & resorts

Activities
Ride

Minimum Age
16

Overview

Why fly or bus from Bangkok to Siem Reap and miss the scenery and the friendly folk in between? Give a bike ride a try instead, and discover a unique patch of SouthEast Asia. Cycle along the coast, through orchards, gem mining towns, and the charming cities of Cambodia with their well preserved French architecture and extraordinary ancient temples. Engaging locals and lovely accommodation all found on one of the lesser trodden paths through South East Asia.

Easy, pleasant rides and effective use of the support vehicle allow us to make the credible claim that anyone who enjoys a recreational ride on a bike can enjoy this cycling adventure.

215 Km Riding. This is a predominantly flat ride, but we do encounter a few smaller hills. We cycle on a variety of surfaces including dirt, asphalt and semi-constructed surface. In Cambodia we cycle on small trails at times and these can be a little bumpy. We will be crossing the highlands separating Thailand and Cambodia, but essentially we'll drive up and cycle down in order to keep this an achievable ride for the vast majority of regular recreational bike riders. If at any time it becomes a struggle, there is a comfortable, air-conditioned support vehicle on hand. We take a slow and relaxed pace so this trip is well suited to fit riders looking for a relaxing ride or those new to cycle touring who are looking to find out what it's all about. We spend two short sections of less than 10km each on the main highway, but the main highway in Cambodia is like a back road anywhere else in the world. Drivers are largely very considerate and flexible and it would be very unusual to feel at all threatened by traffic on these roads.

Peak Season Surcharge: For tours commencing from Dec 20 to Jan 5, and Feb 3-7 there is a peak season surcharge of 15% on the price of this tour due to hotel rate increases at this time of year.

Highlights

Bike along the beach to Chanthaburi as you discover the old Thai town.

Take a locally-run tour of village industries in Battambang to learn more about daily Cambodian life.

Marvel at the colors of sunrise over the spires of Angkor Wat.

Cycle fun single tracks through the jungle to discover hidden temples as well as famous ones.

Day to Day

Expand All

Day 1Transfer & Cycle to Chanthaburi

Riding: 50km cycling

Meal: LD

After picking you up from your hotel in Bangkok, it is a 3-hour drive to reach the starting point of the ride. On a sleepy beach far from the bustle of Bangkok we unload and set up the bikes before embarking on a lovely ride along the coast of Thailand’s Gulf. At times a few small hills provide nice views out over the water as we cycle, and just as your mind starts to drift into communication with your stomach, we discover our lunch stop where the first of many great meals awaits you.

We ride into the town of Chanthaburi in the mid-afternoon where our friendly host awaits to introduce you to his cozy guesthouse and his vegetable garden, two things he is very passionate about.

Day 2Cycle & Transfer to Pailin

Riding: 60km cycling

Meal: BLD

Leaving Chanthaburi, we pass through the old town, the Catholic quarter and then into the surrounding orchards. Today enjoy pedaling solid, quiet roads with very little traffic. Late morning, we transfer past a busier section to our next culinary stop. From here it isn’t a far ride to the border with Cambodia. When the immigration process is completed, we drive to the hotel in the gem-studded hills of Pailin.

Pailin is known not only for gems but also for housing several high-ranking members of the Khmer Rouge long after its violent reign was over. Since the town is no longer home to these officials, Pailin is attempting to become a tourist destination by providing hospitality to visitors. We spend the night in this place of historical significance.

Day 3Cycle & Transfer to Battambang

Riding: 55km cycling

Meal: BLD

Today we veer off of paved roads and cycle down some fun dirt paths through the villages behind Pailin. Although the locals are accustomed to seeing a few foreign passersby, they will still greet you warmly and inquire about your journey. After an hour and a half, we join the main road again and then cycle our way over rolling hills out of the highlands and into the flatlands. We finish up the day’s cycling on the outskirts of Battambang. As the sun hits its peak in the sky and the surroundings become more populated, we hit the heart of the city to enjoy a delicious local lunch. After waiting out the heat of the day, we saddle up and pedal to one of the province’s most impressive 11th-century temples on Phnom Banan. We check into our well-located accommodation and use the rest of our time to wander through this charming town.

Day 4The Village Industries Tour & Transfer to Siem Reap

Riding: 25km cycling

Meal: BLD

This morning we will take a tour led by students of Kinyei: a local vocational training NGO that has created a cycling program called Soksabike. With this cycling tour we will discover the various village industries of Battambang, most of which are food related, so be prepared to see that food baby emerge! Our exploration provides a great insight into how the locals live and get by here. We will see the production of rice wine, dried bananas, and a local snack called Kralanh (bamboo sticky rice) before we return to town to eat once again. From here we have a three-hour transfer to Siem Reap. Once we get there, we’ll have the opportunity to glimpse the sunset over Southeast Asia’s largest body of freshwater, Tonle Sap, from a small mountain nearby.

Day 5Angkor Sunrise Discovery

Riding: 25km cycling

Meal: BL

Bright and early we’ll be at the most significant religious sites in Cambodia, watching the sunrise over the towers of Angkor Wat. Once the crowd subsides, enjoy a memorable walk through the temple, where the morning glow and low temperatures make for an optimal visit. Hop on the bike for a short ride to a hearty breakfast.

When our morning meal is complete, we cycle the hidden trails of the Angkor National Park to discover some of the best-kept secrets of Bayon, Ta Prohm, and the Elephant Terrace. We take a break from the increasing heat to eat lunch with a view of Sra Srang Lake, then you'll be transferred to the hotel around 2 pm.

Today provides a fundamental introduction to this otherworldly complex that will leave you with a good basic understanding of the park’s history and your orientation within it so that you may explore on your own should you wish to extend your stay in Siem Reap. We have a late checkout at 4pm when the tour concludes.

You can book flights out of Siem Reap starting from 6 pm if you wish to leave today.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

Cannondale CX 3s are the latest addition to the Grasshopper fleet for multi-day tours based-in (or traveling through) Cambodia. They are well suited to the Grasshopper touring style and terrain typically encountered here. Fast and smooth rolling 700cc wheels, lockout front suspension and a riding position that offers a good balance of upright comfort and forward-riding efficiency make cycles on regular, rough or unpaved roads a pleasant experience for everyone. A true do-it-all bike for touring, with a class-leading lightweight build and powerful hydraulic disc brakes, the Cannondale CX 3s are a great addition to the Cambodian fleet.
Additionally, all bikes are fitted with removable handlebar bags and comfortable saddles for touring.

The hotels we use are a great, and sometimes unexpected, part of this tour. In the larger cities and established tourist centers, we use stylish and supremely comfortable hotels and resorts, while in the smaller and more out of the way areas we stay in the best available accommodation, which is often simple yet always well run, clean and comes with air-conditioning and a private bathroom.

Cambodian guide showing the murals of Angkor Wat

Experienced English speaking, local leaders will host you on this trip who are well spoken, very knowledgeable, and charming. Our leaders are often cited as being the main highlight of the tour. We use local guides who have a passion for their countries and are always well informed on topics ranging from history, politics, cuisine and importantly local customs and cultures. Our leaders will take pride in introducing you to every aspect of their country and will help you to connect with the villagers you meet along the way. They will also keep your safety and comfort top priorities at all times.

For groups of 5+ people, a bike mechanic will join the group. While not masters of linguistics, our technical team always make an effort to form a bond with the group and provide not just mechanical support, but additional encouragement to those who may find themselves at the back of the group. Our drivers support the group by ensuring that the freshest fruit and tastiest snacks are picked up along the way.

Support van with man leaning out of window

An air-conditioned backup support vehicle is always available for tired riders and to carry your luggage.

Four people eating traditional Thai meal

This is as much a food adventure as it is a bike one. Thai food is internationally famous, and for good reason, with all the best of Thai food provided throughout the trip. While Cambodian cuisine may not be as famous as Thai, it offers some subtle, understated flavors. There is a strong emphasis on fish and fresh vegetables in the traditional diet, but contemporary Cambodian cuisine offers a wide range of options and surely has something for everyone. Our guides are experts at introducing you to the finest food on both sides of the border. Included meals are listed in the day by day itinerary, and drinking water is always included with meals. Any soft or alcoholic drinks are not included and will be at your own expense. All dietary requirements will be accommodated.

Energy bars and local snacks are provided to keep your energy levels up for the riding, and clean water and electrolyte drinks are always available to keep you well hydrated.

Two cyclists in Thailand Grasshopper Adventures jersey

A beautiful souvenir Grasshopper cycling jersey is yours to wear and take home. We also provide a Grasshopper drink bottle as an extra memento.

This tour is guaranteed for a minimum of just 2 travelers. And we limit the group size to only 14 travelers so that you get all the attention you want in an intimate group.

There is no surcharge for single travelers - we will match you with another same-sex single traveler. If you want a single room there is an optional upgrade that you can book.

GUEST REVIEWS

Did this 5 day tour in October/November with a friend and cannot believe how well we were taken care of by Sophat (in Cambodia) and Tick (in Thailand). We made memories to last a lifetime.

-Cowichan99

A wonderful way to see the real Thailand and Cambodia. There were too many highlights to mention, great food, lovely places to stay, smiling children shouting hello...Everything was thought of; cool water, fruit stops and even breakfast cooked for us. A great job! Well done! Can’t wait for the next adventure!

-Arabianjanx

Slow Road to Angkor was an exhilarating trip. Good cycling, excellent planning, exceptional guides, comfortable hotels and wonderful food!!

-Mark

I cannot recommend Grasshopper more strongly - from all angles our tour was exceptional. We were so well taken care of by our guides (Tam and Sophat) and our drivers. The food was superb. The hotels and guest house were amazing. Bikes were excellent. As two women travelling on our own we felt safe and so well cared for. It was so wonderful to have all of the details taken care of for us. It was my first trip to Asia and I can't wait to go back. I cannot wait to do another tour as I am confident that any of the options would be excellent.

-Maggie

A superbly executed and enjoyable eye-opener to the local sights that are far from the normal tourist paths.

-Jeremiah

Grasshopper tours is a first class act. They have thought of everything. We could not have possibly asked for more. The fresh cold water at our stops, the fresh fruit snacks, comfortable van transport and bikes in good condition. Both Serymom and Tob were fanstastic, friendly guides with outstanding support teams.

-Liana

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is the pass to the Angkor Archaeological Park included in the tour fee?

Yes, it is.

2. Do you organize the visas for each country?

No, each participant is responsible for their own travel documents and arranging visas.

3. What time is the sunrise at Angkor Wat?

The sunrise varies according to the season. To find the time of the next sunrise at Angkor Wat click this link.

4. What is traveling in Thailand like?

Click here to see our Thailand Travel Guide. Here is some general travel information for Thailand.

5. What is traveling in Cambodia like?

Click here to see our Cambodia Travel Guide. Here is some general travel information for Cambodia.

6. Follow link below for general questions about our multi-day bike tours

Multi-day Cycling Tours Frequently Asked Questions

Dates & Price

Dates Availability Price * Deposit payment: $500 USD
* Single room option: $350 USD

16 - 20 Sep 2019 Guaranteed to Depart

Adult 1490USD

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Home > Thailand

Slow Road to Angkor

Price

Duration

Level

Tour Code

Cycle Thailand to Cambodia, Bangkok to Siem Reap

Overview

Highlights

Day to Day

Day 1Transfer & Cycle to Chanthaburi

Day 2Cycle & Transfer to Pailin

Day 3Cycle & Transfer to Battambang

Day 4The Village Industries Tour & Transfer to Siem Reap

Day 5Angkor Sunrise Discovery

Dates & Price

WHAT MAKES US STAND OUT

GRASSHOPPER STYLE

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