Prince’s Cambodia Travel Guide: Cliff Koh Cycling Routes

Introduction

Cycling through Cambodia offers travelers a unique way to connect with the country’s landscapes, culture, and people. The slow pace of a bike ride allows groups to absorb every detail—from the golden spires of ancient temples to the laughter of children playing along dirt paths. For group travelers, cycling is more than just transportation; it’s a shared adventure filled with discovery, bonding, and moments of awe. The Prince’s Cambodia Travel Guide: Cliff Koh Cycling Routes highlights some of the most memorable paths for groups seeking adventure on two wheels.

Group cycling tours across Cambodia open doors to authentic experiences that aren’t accessible by bus or car. Whether pedaling through the mystical ruins of Angkor, winding past rice paddies in Battambang, or coasting along riverside trails in Kampot, every route offers both scenic beauty and cultural immersion. Shared meals, laughter during roadside breaks, and collective triumph over long rides make cycling tours especially rewarding for groups.

This guide explores Cambodia’s top cycling routes while providing cultural context, sensory details, and practical tips to ensure group travelers can make the most of their journey on wheels.

Cycling Through the Angkor Temples

One of the most iconic cycling routes in Cambodia takes place in Siem Reap, where groups can explore the Angkor Archaeological Park by bike.

Starting at dawn, the group can ride to Angkor Wat, catching the first light of sunrise reflected in the temple’s lotus-filled ponds. Pedaling through the ancient causeways, groups soon reach Bayon Temple, with its serene stone faces, before continuing to Ta Prohm, where giant tree roots embrace centuries-old ruins.

Cycling through the park offers freedom and flexibility. Groups can stop for photos, explore side temples, and enjoy moments of silence in less crowded areas. The lush greenery and shaded paths provide comfort, while the sheer scale of the ruins inspires reflection on Cambodia’s grandeur.

Practical tip: Purchase a multi-day temple pass to explore at your own pace. Early starts help avoid midday crowds and allow the group to enjoy cooler weather.

Battambang Countryside Cycling

Battambang, often called Cambodia’s cultural heart, is known for its countryside charm and is a favorite destination for cycling groups.

Pedaling through rice paddies, mango orchards, and quiet villages, groups experience authentic rural life. Farmers wave from the fields, and children run alongside, greeting cyclists with enthusiastic “hello!” The ride is filled with sensory delights: the smell of fresh earth, the sight of water buffalo grazing, and the sound of cicadas buzzing in the distance.

Unique highlights include the Bamboo Train (Norry), a quirky ride on makeshift wooden carts, and visits to local temples with bat caves that come alive at dusk. Cycling tours often include stops at artisan workshops where groups can learn about traditional rice paper making or pottery.

Practical tip: Group tours can be arranged with local guides who provide cultural insights and ensure safe navigation through small roads and trails.

Phnom Penh Riverside and Silk Island

The capital city, Phnom Penh, offers contrasting cycling experiences—urban energy and riverside tranquility.

Cycling groups can start along the Mekong Riverside Promenade, where the city hums with activity. The golden spires of the Royal Palace and bustling markets make excellent backdrops for group photos. As the ride continues, groups can board a ferry to Koh Dach (Silk Island), a rural escape just minutes from the city.

On the island, narrow lanes wind past silk-weaving villages, vegetable gardens, and stilt houses. Groups can stop at workshops to see traditional weaving techniques and purchase handmade scarves directly from artisans. The slower pace of life here contrasts beautifully with Phnom Penh’s urban rush.

Practical tip: This route is ideal for groups of mixed cycling ability. The terrain is flat, and the ferry ride adds a fun, cultural twist to the day.

Kampot and Kep: Coastal Cycling Adventures

The riverside town of Kampot is a haven for cycling enthusiasts. Groups can ride along the Kampot River, framed by mountains and lush greenery, before venturing into the countryside to explore pepper plantations. Tasting the world-famous Kampot pepper together makes for a memorable group stop.

From Kampot, groups can cycle to the coastal town of Kep, famous for its seafood and quiet beaches. The route winds past salt fields, mangroves, and rural villages, providing diverse scenery. In Kep, group travelers can celebrate the ride with a feast at the crab market, where freshly caught crabs are cooked with Kampot pepper.

Optional side trip: Adventurous groups can extend the ride into Bokor National Park, a challenging climb that rewards cyclists with misty mountain views, waterfalls, and abandoned colonial architecture.

Practical tip: Start early to avoid the midday sun, and carry plenty of water. Renting bikes in Kampot is affordable and group-friendly.

Koh Rong Sanloem and Coastal Trails

For those seeking tropical island vibes, Koh Rong Sanloem offers unique opportunities for cycling along coastal trails. While not as extensive as mainland routes, the island’s sandy paths connect quiet beaches and fishing villages.

Groups can ride together from Saracen Bay to Sunset Beach, stopping along the way for snorkeling, kayaking, or simply enjoying the turquoise waters. The slower pace of island life allows groups to relax between rides, creating a balance of adventure and leisure.

Evenings on the island are perfect for group bonding—bonfires on the beach, fresh seafood dinners, and night swims in bioluminescent waters.

Practical tip: Island trails can be sandy and uneven, so sturdy mountain bikes are recommended. Groups should check with local rentals for availability.

Mondulkiri Mountain Trails

In eastern Cambodia, Mondulkiri offers rugged cycling routes for groups seeking adventure. The region’s rolling hills, cool climate, and forested landscapes provide a striking contrast to Cambodia’s lowlands.

Cycling tours often include visits to waterfalls like Bousra, elephant sanctuaries, and minority villages. Groups ride past coffee plantations and winding mountain trails, enjoying panoramic views at every turn. The cool air and fresh greenery make the rides both invigorating and refreshing.

Shared experiences like swimming at waterfalls or camping under the stars foster deeper connections among group travelers. Mondulkiri is less touristy, meaning groups often feel like they have the trails to themselves.

Practical tip: This region requires moderate fitness levels. Hiring local guides ensures safe navigation and adds cultural insights about the Bunong people and their traditions.

Sihanoukville to the Islands

While Sihanoukville has become more developed, it remains a key stop for groups cycling toward Cambodia’s islands. Cycling along the coast provides views of fishing villages, sandy beaches, and the open sea.

Groups can ride from Sihanoukville to ferry points and then continue their journey on Koh Rong or Koh Rong Sanloem. These combined cycling-and-island adventures are perfect for groups who want to mix physical activity with relaxation.

Practical tip: Stay in hostels or guesthouses that cater to cyclists, offering storage for bikes and group-friendly accommodations.

Tips for Group Cycling in Cambodia

Traveling by bike as a group enhances the journey but requires some coordination:

Plan routes in advance: Ensure distances are manageable for everyone’s fitness level.
Stay hydrated: Cambodia’s tropical heat demands constant water breaks.
Use local guides: They provide cultural context and ensure safe passage through rural and urban areas.
Carry essentials: Sunscreen, hats, and small repair kits are vital for long rides.
Embrace flexibility: Allow for spontaneous stops—whether at a roadside stall or a hidden temple.

These tips help groups enjoy their rides while staying safe and comfortable.

Conclusion: Cycling Cambodia Together

Cycling in Cambodia is more than just a way to get from one place to another—it’s a shared adventure filled with discovery, cultural encounters, and lasting friendships. From the grandeur of Angkor Wat to the rolling hills of Mondulkiri, from riverside rides in Kampot to island explorations on Koh Rong Sanloem, every route offers its own unique charm.

The Prince’s Cambodia Travel Guide: Cliff Koh Cycling Routes provides group travelers with a roadmap for unforgettable experiences. Together, groups can conquer trails, share meals, and create memories that last long after the ride ends. Cycling Cambodia as a group transforms simple journeys into extraordinary adventures, strengthening bonds through every pedal stroke.