Embark on an unforgettable adventure that combines the stunning highlights of Northern Cambodia and Laos. This tour takes you from the ancient marvels of Angkor in Siem Reap to the serene vistas of Pakse, allowing you to immerse yourself in the diverse cultures and landscapes that characterize this enchanting region.
Cycle through idyllic countryside, where charming villages and lush forests create a picturesque backdrop. Discover hidden gems as you traverse the landscape, including the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor, renowned for their intricate architecture and historical significance. As you continue your journey, witness the natural beauty of breathtaking waterfalls that cascade through the lush terrain.
Delve into the heart of Laos’ coffee-growing region, the Bolaven Plateau, where you can experience local traditions and engage with friendly villagers. The tour promises not only visual delights but also opportunities to savor local flavors and learn about the rich heritage of the area.
This adventure offers a harmonious blend of exploration, culture, and natural beauty, making it a truly immersive experience. Whether you’re an avid cyclist or a cultural enthusiast, this journey through Northern Cambodia and Southern Laos will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation of these captivating lands.
Day 1: Siem Reap
Arrive in Siem Reap and check into your hotel. As you explore the area, you’ll discover the rich local history, stunning architecture, and captivating aesthetics of this vibrant city. The day is yours to relax and unwind after your journey.
At 2 PM, our guide will meet you at your hotel for a bike fitting, followed by a brief walking tour of Siem Reap, culminating in a delicious dinner.
- Meals: Dinner
- Accommodation: Steung Siemreap
Day 2: Siem Reap
Wake up early to witness the breathtaking sunrise over Angkor Wat. This iconic temple complex is a must-see during your visit to Cambodia, and cycling around the site is an unforgettable experience. We will begin our ride directly from the hotel to the moat surrounding Angkor Wat. Take your time to marvel at the intricate sculptures, towering spires, and winding paths flanked by majestic banyan trees—perfect for photography and exploration. After capturing the beauty of Angkor Wat, we will loop back for an in-depth guided tour.
Next, we will ride toward Angkor Thom, entering the city through the South Gate. To avoid the crowds, we’ll climb the city walls and cycle along the top for unique views. Our guide will provide fascinating insights into the history of the city during a break at this scenic spot. Continuing on our journey, we will pass through the East Gate to visit Bayon, renowned for its richly decorated stone faces—one of the highlights of the Angkor complex.
We will exit the city through the second East Gate and make our way to the jungle-enshrouded Ta Prohm. Along the way, our guide will share intriguing historical anecdotes about the temples we encounter.
The magnificence of Angkor Wat deserves more than just a morning visit, so we will circle back for a more comprehensive guided exploration of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, known as one of the largest religious complexes in the world, sure to leave you in awe. If time allows, we can climb Phnom Bakheng for a stunning sunset view over Angkor.
In the evening, take the opportunity to explore local cuisine at the charming cafes lining the narrow streets.
- Meals:** Breakfast, Lunch
- Cycling Distance:** 30 km / 18 mi
- Accommodation:** Steung Siemreap
Day 3: Kampong Thom
After enjoying breakfast, embark on a picturesque cycling journey through the tranquil countryside, where you’ll be treated to stunning views of lush paddy fields leading to Tonle Sap Lake. Once you arrive, board a boat to the charming floating village of Kampong Phluk, known for its unique community atmosphere and ornate pagodas. Here, you can admire the remarkable architecture of houses built on tall stilts to accommodate the dramatic changes in water levels. Take a leisurely boat excursion through the village, observing the daily lives of fishermen and their families who live in these elevated homes.
Following a satisfying lunch, enjoy a 2.5-hour shuttle transfer to the secluded archaeological site of Sambor Preikuk. This fascinating cluster of temples dates back to the 6th century and is nestled in a peaceful jungle setting, providing an opportunity to explore these lesser-known ruins amidst serene natural beauty.
- **Meals:** Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- **Cycling Distance:** 37 km / 21 mi
- **Accommodation:** Sambor Village
Day 4: Kampong Cham
Begin the day with a 40-minute scenic drive to Kampong Thmor, located in the picturesque countryside. From there, set off on a cycling adventure through lush tropical farmlands, famous for their cultivation of cassava, sweet potatoes, peanuts, and rubber. After a delightful lunch, continue your ride along peaceful paved roads, passing through charming villages and ancient pagodas as you follow the winding Mekong River.
Arrive at Kampong Cham town, where a unique experience awaits you on Koh Pen, a rustic island in the river. The island is accessible via a traditional bamboo bridge constructed by locals each dry season (January to May), offering an intimate glimpse into rural life. Please note that during the wet season, a ferry replaces the bridge to ensure continued access to the island.
**Meals:** Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
**Cycling Distance:** 60 km / 36 mi
**Accommodation:** LBN Asian Hotel
**Day 5: Kratie via Chhlong**
Today, our adventure begins at the hotel as we cross the Kizuna Bridge over the Mekong River, connecting the city to the eastern regions of Cambodia. Cycling along a paved road, we will encounter scenic trails that offer glimpses of the river and pass through vibrant local villages filled with daily life. Witnessing locals engaged in activities such as cooking, playing, and herding cattle along the riverbanks adds an authentic touch to our experience.
Later, we will transfer to Kratie, where we will explore the Buddhist meditation center known as “Phnom Sambok,” perched atop a hill adorned with various flora identified by their scientific names. At the summit, a charming temple awaits, along with cottages that serve as residences for Buddhist monks, clergy, and nuns.
Upon returning to town, we will take a ferry to Koh Trong, our homestay destination for the night. Approximately 280 families reside on this 6-kilometer island, which is renowned for producing some of the finest pomelo fruit in Cambodia, as well as rice and other agricultural goods. Before our homestay experience, we will leave excess luggage on the bus, bringing only essential items in our backpacks. Enjoy a delightful meal of traditional Cambodian cuisine shared with our welcoming host family, immersing ourselves in the local culture and traditions.
**Meals:** Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
**Cycling Distance:** 60 km / 37 mi
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**Day 6: Stung Treng**
After breakfast, we will take a ferry across to the town and embark on a 36-kilometer cycling adventure to explore Wat Sorsor Moi Roi, also known as the 100-Column Pagoda. This architectural marvel, supported by 108 columns and adorned with vibrant murals, is built on the grounds of a 19th-century wooden temple, remnants of which can still be seen at the rear of the compound.
Following our visit, we will continue cycling an additional 26 kilometers toward Highway 7, where we will switch to a van for the transfer to Stung Treng.
**Meals:** Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
**Cycling Distance:** 60 km / 36 mi
**Accommodation:** Mekong Bird Resẻot
**Day 7: Don Det (Laos)**
Today, we cycle towards the O’Svay Ecotourism Community, immersing ourselves in the rhythm of rural life. Enjoy a traditional lunch hosted by a local family, offering an authentic taste of Khmer hospitality. After lunch, we’ll continue our ride toward the border for immigration procedures. Here, we will bid farewell to our Cambodian team and receive a warm welcome from our Lao team. Following this transition, we’ll take a transfer to Si Phan Don (4000 Islands), specifically to a resort located on Dong Khone Island, where you can enjoy a peaceful retreat surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
**Meals:** Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
**Cycling Distance:** 60 km / 37 mi
**Accommodation:** Sala Don Khone
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**Day 8: Don Khong**
This morning, we will ride to the pier for a scenic boat cruise through the islands en route to Don Khong. Enjoy a leisurely ferry-hopping experience that allows us to explore the longest island in the Mekong River at a relaxed and peaceful pace.
**Meals:** Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
**Cycling Distance:** 45 km / 28 mi
**Accommodation:** Pon Arena Hotel
**Day 9: Soukhouma**
Today’s adventure involves cycling along the Mekong River on dirt roads that trace the western bank, passing through charming riverside villages. We will cross over to Don San and continue our journey toward Soukhouma. After a refreshing lunch break, we’ll pedal to our hotel, where you can enjoy the rest of the afternoon at your leisure.
**Meals:** Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
**Cycling Distance:** 45 km / 28 mi
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**Day 10: Pathoomphone**
Departing from the village, we will continue our journey along the dirt road that hugs the western shore. We will transfer across the river to explore an impressive 11th-century Khmer Dynasty temple. This well-preserved structure is one of the few remaining from the Khmer Kingdom era in Laos, providing a tranquil experience reminiscent of a mini-Angkor Wat, but without the crowds. After exploring, we’ll cycle to a luxurious resort tucked away in pristine natural surroundings.
**Meals:** Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
**Cycling Distance:** 65 km / 40 mi
**Accommodation:** Kingfisher Ecolodge
**Day 11: Pathoomphone**
Today is yours to unwind and explore at your leisure. Venture into the wetlands of Bueng Kiat Ngong for birdwatching, wildlife spotting, and serene boat rides. Alternatively, spend a tranquil day along the picturesque Nam Theun River, where you can take a refreshing swim or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Our guide will be happy to provide recommendations tailored to your interests.
**Meals:** Breakfast
**Accommodation:** Kingfisher Ecolodge
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**Day 12: Attapue**
Today’s route takes us along charming rural roads, where we will encounter villages inhabited by diverse ethnic minority groups. As these communities are not frequented by cyclists, expect a warm and genuine welcome as we ride through the countryside. Attapeu, a quaint provincial town, is nestled in a bend of the Mekong River and offers a glimpse into local life.
**Meals:** Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
**Cycling Distance:** 80 km / 49 mi
**Accommodation:** Hoang Anh Hotel
**Day 13: Paksong**
Today’s journey involves a long and steady ride northward, beginning with a flat and enjoyable 60-kilometer stretch alongside the Mekong River. As we veer westward, we will gradually ascend into the Bolaven Plateau, the heart of Laos’ coffee cultivation. The ride continues with a gradual ascent as we make our way toward our destination, a coffee plantation resort.
**Meals:** Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
**Cycling Distance:** 85 km / 53 mi
**Accommodation:** Sinouk Coffee Resort
**Day 14: Pakse**
Exploring this region by bike is an absolute delight. Along the route, you’ll encounter numerous waterfalls and lush forests. We will pause at Tad Yuang Waterfall for lunch before concluding our ride in Pakse, the largest town in Southern Laos.
- **Meals:** Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- **Cycling Distance:** 50 km / 31 mi
- **Accommodation:** Seng Aloun Hotel
Day 15: Departure
Please make arrangements according to your onward travel plans.
- **Meals:** Breakfast