Introduction:
Embark on a mesmerizing journey through Thailand and Cambodia, as we take you from the ancient pagodas of Thailand to the bustling streets of Bangkok and across the majestic Mekong River. Brace yourself for an unforgettable adventure as you sail across the tranquil Tole Sap Lake and witness the grandeur of the world-renowned UNESCO heritage site, Angkor Wat.
Our expedition begins in the vibrant city of Bangkok, where you will be greeted by the bustling energy of this cosmopolitan metropolis. From here, we will transfer to the picturesque Pattaya beach city, where our meticulously prepared mountain bikes await. Our knowledgeable guide will provide a comprehensive briefing on the upcoming cycling tour, ensuring that you are well-prepared for the adventure that lies ahead.
As we commence our thrilling cycling journey, we will embark on an arduous yet exhilarating ride towards the border of Thailand and Cambodia. Along the way, the road may vary from dirt with occasional potholes to rugged paths, broken roads, or even vehicle-width dirt roads. These diverse terrains will challenge both your physical endurance and your sense of adventure, as you navigate through smooth, gritty, stony, rocky, rutted, loose, or hard-packed surfaces.
The 55-kilometer stretch from Pailin to Battambang is notorious for its road conditions, yet it offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s past and present. As you traverse this complex terrain, you will bear witness to the remnants of the former Khmer Rouge stronghold in Pailin. This evocative experience serves as a reminder of Cambodia’s tumultuous history, juxtaposed with the transformative changes the country has undergone. The journey continues as we venture off the beaten path, leading us to the enigmatic Angkor historical complex, a true marvel of architectural brilliance.
One of the highlights of this cycling tour is the opportunity to cross the border between Thailand and Cambodia on a bicycle. This unique experience grants you a deeper understanding of the stark contrasts between these two amazing countries. Immerse yourself in the local culture, soak up the breathtaking landscapes, and engage with the welcoming locals as you pedal your way through the heart of Southeast Asia.
For those seeking an extended adventure, this trip can be seamlessly combined with our Southern Adventure expedition, allowing you to further explore the wonders of this captivating region.
Over the course of approximately 375 kilometers, with predominantly asphalt roads, our cycling journey promises unparalleled excitement and discovery. Each twist and turn along this exhilarating route offers a new opportunity to uncover hidden gems and unravel the mysteries of Thailand and Cambodia.
Prepare to be captivated by the ancient pagodas, vibrant cities, and awe-inspiring natural beauty that await you. Join us on this epic expedition, as we traverse breathtaking landscapes, unlock the secrets of historic sites, and forge unforgettable memories along the way. It’s time to embark on a cycling adventure like no other – an adventure that will leave an indelible mark on your soul.
Day 1: Bangkok – Rayong – Pattaya km cycling (L,D)
On the first day of the cycling tour, your guide will provide a detailed briefing on the itinerary and customize your bike to your preferences. Afterward, you will be transferred to Rayong beach where you will start your cycling journey along the scenic coastline, covering approximately 50km. As you pedal along, you will have the opportunity to take in the beautiful views and enjoy the fresh sea breeze. Around lunchtime, you will make a stop to refuel and have a delicious meal. Finally, you will reach Pattaya, where you will spend the night.
Day 2: Pattaya – Chantaburi 60km cycling (B,L,D)
The second day will take you on a 60km ride to Chantaburi. Along the way, you will visit a mangrove study center, which is known as one of the most successful forest restoration projects in Thailand. This will give you the chance to learn about the importance of preserving the environment and the unique ecosystems of this area. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to interact with local people and gain insights into their way of life. After an exciting day of cycling and exploration, you will enjoy a delicious dinner and spend the night in Chantaburi.
Day 3: Chantaburi – Pailin 47km cycling (B,L,D)
After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, you will be transferred to Pongnamron to begin your cycling journey towards the Cambodian border. The route covers approximately 27km, and upon crossing the border, you will enjoy a well-deserved lunch at a local restaurant. Following the meal, you will continue cycling for approximately 20km to Pailin, a city nestled at the foothills of the captivating Cardamom Mountains. The breathtaking scenery will leave you awe-inspired. You will spend the night in Pailin.
Day 4: Pailin – Battambang 55km cycling (B,L,D)
The fourth day will take you on a scenic cycling route from Pailin to Battambang, which winds along the Cadarmom mountain range. While there may be some potholes and occasional encounters with farm animals on the road, the captivating natural surroundings make up for any inconveniences. You will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of the region as you cycle approximately 55km. Upon reaching Battambang, you will settle in for the night.
Day 5: Battambang – Siem Reap 38km cycling (B,L,D)
Embark on an unforgettable boat trip as you cross the Sangker River, providing a wonderful opportunity for people and bird watching. After the river crossing, you will arrive at the Chong Kneas floating village. Exploring this unique village, you will be captivated by its charm. Then, you will continue your cycling journey, covering approximately 15km to reach your hotel in Siem Reap, where you will stay overnight.
Day 6: Siem Reap – Angkor Complex 25km cycling (B,L,D)
On the sixth day, you will depart from your hotel as a group and cycle along the main road to the renowned Angkor Wat complex. Your cycling adventure will take you past the Kravan Wat and Banteay Kdei, both of which offer fascinating insights into the local culture and rich history of the region. For lunch, you will have the opportunity to enjoy a meal surrounded by the majestic Ta Phrom, a temple embraced by the roots of enormous fig trees. After a day filled with exploration, you will return to Siem Reap and spend the night.
Day 7: Banteay Srei and River of Thousand Lingas 50km cycling (B,L,D)
Take a scenic route through rural paths as you soak in the picturesque landscapes of rice fields and villages in the Cambodian countryside. Continuing on, you will cycle towards Kbal Spean, also known as the River of Thousand Lingas, where you can observe the unique rock carvings that adorn the riverbed. Afterward, you will enjoy a refreshing lunch at the waterfall. On your way back to Siem Reap, you will have the opportunity to visit the Landmine Museum, an organization dedicated to clearing landmines from the Cambodian countryside. The visit supports their vital work through donations. You will spend another night in Siem Reap.
Day 8: Siem Reap departure (B)
On the final day of the cycling tour, you will have breakfast at the hotel and enjoy some free time before your transfer to the airport for your departure flight. Take this opportunity to relax and reflect on the incredible cycling adventure you have experienced, filled with cultural encounters and breathtaking landscapes.
Inclusions:
When embarking on our exhilarating cycling adventure through Thailand and Cambodia, we want to ensure that you have everything you need for a seamless, comfortable, and enjoyable journey. That’s why we have meticulously planned and included a range of essential elements to enhance your experience.
First and foremost, we understand the importance of staying hydrated during physical activities. That’s why we provide bottled water to keep you refreshed and energized throughout the cycling expedition. In addition to water, we offer a variety of snacks to keep your energy levels high, ensuring you have the fuel you need to conquer every kilometer. For that extra touch of comfort, we also provide cold towels to refresh you after a satisfying day of pedaling. And to indulge in the local flavors, fresh fruits will be available during our cycling breaks.
Of course, the key element of any cycling adventure is the bicycle itself. We provide the use of a well-maintained bicycle for the duration of the trip, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride. We understand that the right equipment is essential for an enjoyable cycling experience, and our top-quality bicycles are designed to provide both efficiency and comfort.
As we embark on our exciting journey, we will spend seven nights in carefully selected accommodations. These accommodations have been chosen for their comfort, cleanliness, and proximity to our destinations, ensuring that you have a comfortable and restful stay throughout the trip. From charming boutique hotels to cozy guesthouses, we have taken every effort to provide you with the best possible accommodation options.
To fuel our bodies and keep us energized, we include lunch each day during the cycling tour. You can look forward to indulging in delicious local cuisine, allowing you to savor the flavors of Thailand and Cambodia. Additionally, dinner will be provided, offering you the opportunity to unwind after a day of adventure while enjoying a satisfying meal.
Throughout the duration of our journey, a knowledgeable driver/guide will accompany us, providing valuable insights, assistance, and support. Our expert guide will ensure that you are well-informed about the routes, landmarks, and cultural highlights we encounter along the way, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the places we visit.
Safety is a top priority, and we provide the use of helmets for all participants. Wearing a helmet is essential, and we want to ensure that you have access to the necessary safety equipment to protect yourself during the cycling journey.
To alleviate any concerns, we include travel insurance in the package. This insurance will provide coverage for unforeseen events during the trip, giving you peace of mind as you explore Southeast Asia’s treasures.
Please note that personal expenses, such as souvenirs and additional snacks, are not included in the package. However, we have made sure to cover all essential aspects of the tour, allowing you to focus on enjoying the experience without any worries.
In terms of visas, it is important to note that each participant is responsible for obtaining the necessary visas for entry into Thailand and Cambodia. We recommend checking with the respective embassies or consulates for up-to-date information on visa requirements.
At the end of the journey, for those who have selected the option, we will arrange hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey from your hotel to the starting point of our adventure and back.
Lastly, all meals included in the itinerary will be clearly indicated as either breakfast (B), lunch (L), or dinner (D), allowing you to plan your meals accordingly and know what to expect.
With our comprehensive inclusion of various elements, we strive to provide you with a memorable and hassle-free cycling experience. Be prepared to immerse yourself in the rich culture, history, and natural beauty of Thailand and Cambodia as you embark on this extraordinary adventure.