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How Andre Did A 7-day Bike Tour From Siem Reap To Phnom Penh Cambodia?

Day 1: Arrival in Siem Reap - Immediate immersion

I've always been passionate about active travel, and my Cambodia 7 days bike tour was one of the most enriching experiences of my life. I discovered this 7 days bike tour from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh by browsing Autour Asia – my Cambodia tour agency, and as soon as I read the itinerary, I knew it was for me. During these 7 days, I cycled approximately 300 km through rice paddies, majestic temples, and welcoming villages, returning with unforgettable memories.

Upon my arrival in Siem Reap, I was warmly welcomed by the local guide, with whom I immediately felt at ease. He handed me my bicycle, which was very well-maintained, comfortable, and perfectly suited for the route I was about to follow. The afternoon was dedicated to a detailed briefing on the bike tour between Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, an opportunity to get to know the group and ask all our questions.

Afterward, I took a short first bike ride around the city to familiarize myself with the equipment and Cambodian roads. This initial contact gave me a taste of what awaited me: a peaceful atmosphere, spontaneous smiles, and surprisingly smooth traffic.

In the evening, I shared our first dinner in a local restaurant where I was able to taste delicious Khmer cuisine. The atmosphere was friendly, full of enthusiasm, and curiosity. It was an excellent way to start this 7-day bike tour in Cambodia on the best possible note. I spent the night at Angkor Vattanak Guesthouse, a modest but clean and well-located accommodation in the center of Siem Reap, perfect for a smooth start to the trip.

Day 2: Angkor temples by bike

The day started early to beat the heat, but more importantly, to experience a magical moment: arriving at Angkor Wat at sunrise. Cycling through the forest paths to the temples was an experience in itself.

Unlike traditional bus tours, I could stop whenever I pleased, savor the tranquility, and discover less-frequented spots. I visited iconic sites like Ta Prohm, engulfed by the roots of giant trees, the mysterious Bayon with its towers sculpted with smiling faces, and of course, the majestic Angkor Wat.

The bike offered great freedom and a unique connection with the site. Away from the crowds, I felt like I was rediscovering these jewels in an almost intimate atmosphere. It was a physical but fascinating day, where ancient history and nature intertwined. I spent the night at Angkor Vattanak Guesthouse (second night), ideal for staying close to the temples while maintaining a local and friendly spirit. This second day truly anchored me in the 7 days bike tour from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh and confirmed that I had made the right choice by opting for this type of tour.

Day 3: Siem Reap to Kampong Thom – Visit rural Cambodia

That day, I left the Angkor region to venture into rural Cambodia, heading towards Kampong Thom. This approximately 65 km stage proved to be a true immersion in nature and local life. I cycled through immense, vibrant green rice paddies, passed villages where children waved joyful "hello!" to me, and encountered simple yet touching scenes of daily life.

Regular stops provided opportunities to discover local gastronomy, particularly during a break at a family's home where they offered me freshly picked exotic fruits.

This section of the 7 days bike tour from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh perfectly illustrates the balance between physical effort and authentic encounters. I greatly appreciated the day's rhythm, which was both challenging and accessible thanks to the impeccable organization by the Cambodia tour agency.

Upon arriving in Kampong Thom, a quiet small town traversed by a river, I felt like I had experienced a day rich in emotions. The journey was taking on a more human and immersive turn, exactly what I was looking for. I spent the night at Mittapheap Hotel in Kampong Thom, a small, simple hotel with all the necessary comforts to recover after an intense day of cycling.

Day 4: Sambor Prei Kuk

The day began with a beautiful cycling stage towards the archaeological site of Sambor Prei Kuk, one of the oldest in Cambodia. Less known than Angkor, this pre-Angkorian site is nonetheless fascinating. I explored these ruined brick temples, buried in the jungle, with very few tourists in sight. A mystical atmosphere emanated from these historically rich places. In the afternoon, I continued our route to a small village for a homestay.

It was here that the Cambodia 7 days bike tour truly took on its human dimension. I was welcomed with open arms by a lovely family. After a well-deserved shower, I participated in preparing dinner, shared life stories, and laughed around the fire. I spent the night at a homestay in a traditional Khmer house in Prasat Sambor village for an authentic cultural immersion. Sleeping in a traditional house, far from modern comforts, reconnected me to the essentials. This day remains one of my most cherished travel memories: authentic, touching, and profoundly human.

Day 5: Kampong Cham - Along the Mekong

On the fifth day, I set off for Kampong Cham, a peaceful city on the banks of the Mekong. The route was splendid: lined with rubber plantations, banana trees, and dotted with small local markets. I stopped at a roadside eatery for an iced lime tea, a true breath of fresh air.

Upon arriving in Kampong Cham, I was immediately charmed by the city's tranquil atmosphere. I strolled along the river and crossed the famous bamboo bridge, hand-built each year during the dry season.

This bridge, both fragile and impressive, symbolizes the ingenuity and resilience of Cambodians. This section of the 7 days bike tour from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh particularly struck me with the beauty of its landscapes and the serenity of the places. The majestic and peaceful Mekong seemed to accompany me on my journey. I spent the night at Monorom VIP Guesthouse in Kampong Cham, an economical and well-located option with a partial view of the river. It was a day that was both contemplative and full of unexpected discoveries, perfect for recharging.

Day 6: Pagodas - Lotus fields in Cambodia

This shorter stage allowed me to slow down and savor every moment. I visited several pagodas, including the famous Wat Nokor, an astonishing temple that blends ancient Khmer architecture with more modern Buddhist structures. The spiritual atmosphere was palpable, reinforced by the chanting of monks and the scent of incense. This day added a new dimension to the 7 days bike tour from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh, making it more introspective and contemplative.

Leaving the temples, I rode through endless lotus fields: a true sea of pink flowers undulating with the wind. The setting was enchanting. I took a moment to rest, lying in the shade and watching the clouds drift by. I spent the night at Prey Veng Guesthouse, a small local inn offering basic amenities, quiet and welcoming. Each pedal stroke felt like a meditation in motion. Less physically demanding than the previous days, this route allowed me to recenter myself, breathe deeply, and appreciate the beauty of Cambodia from a new perspective.

Day 7: Arrival in Phnom Penh - Mission accomplished

On the last day of this 7 days bike tour from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh, I rode to Phnom Penh, the capital. Cycling in the increasingly bustling surroundings of the city was a striking contrast to the previous days spent in the tranquility of the countryside.

Despite this, the group remained cohesive and focused. I cycled through the outlying villages, along the river, and past noisy and colorful markets. Arriving in the heart of the city, with the Royal Palace as the final point, was very moving.

I had covered over 300 km, through an incredible diversity of landscapes and cultures. In the evening, I celebrated this wonderful adventure with a festive dinner with the group. Emotions, laughter, and thanks concluded this extraordinary experience. I looked at my bicycle with gratitude: it had been my faithful companion throughout this journey. A true mission accomplished, with a full heart and happy legs.

This 7 days bike tour from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh far exceeded all my expectations. It offered me much more than a simple tourist trip: a true reconnection with nature, an immersion in a rich and welcoming culture, and an opportunity to push myself physically. The circuit between Siem Reap and Phnom Penh is perfectly designed, alternating physical effort, historical discoveries, and authentic encounters. Each stage is well-paced, with professional and benevolent support. The local guide was passionate and always attentive, while the logistical support (support vehicle, local meals, simple but comfortable accommodations) was impeccable. For those who dream of an active, human, and exotic trip, I highly recommend this type of tour. Go for it with a reputable Cambodia travel agency like Autour Asia, a specialist in bike tours in Southeast Asia.