Mad Monkey Siem Reap: Sunset Countryside Cycling Tour

Introduction

If you’re exploring Siem Reap and want to see a more authentic, peaceful side of Cambodia beyond Angkor Wat, the Mad Monkey Siem Reap Sunset Countryside Cycling Tour offers a charming way to do it. While we haven’t personally pedaled through these lanes, the tour’s details suggest it’s a relaxed, scenic ride perfect for travelers looking to combine gentle exercise with cultural insight and stunning views.

What we love about this experience is how it balances beautiful scenery with local culture — from the vibrant rice fields to farmers going about their day. Plus, the chance to enjoy refreshing drinks and snacks while watching a sunset over lotus flowers sounds like a special, memorable moment. However, a possible drawback is that this tour is only available on select days (Mondays and Fridays), and it’s not suitable for those who can’t ride a bike or are traveling with very young children.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, want a taste of rural Cambodia, and appreciate a relaxed, social atmosphere. If cycling 27 km isn’t a problem and you’re after a laid-back experience that combines exercise with sightseeing, this is likely to be right up your alley.

Key Points

• Scenic countryside: Experience the lush rice fields and rural life just outside Siem Reap.
• Sunset views: Watch a beautiful sunset surrounded by lotus flowers, a true highlight.
• Local culture: Stop for photos and observe farmers and local activity along the way.
• Affordable value: At $18, including bike, snacks, drinks, and beers, it’s a budget-friendly way to see more of Cambodia.
• Guided experience: Knowledgeable guides help you understand the scenery and local life.
• Post-ride relaxation: Claim two draft beers at the bar after the tour—perfect for unwinding.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Sunset Countryside Cycling Tour

The Itinerary and Route

Starting at 2:45 PM in the Mad Monkey Siem Reap hostel lobby, the group sets off on a roughly 4-hour adventure covering about 27 km of the southern countryside. The timing is well-planned to maximize daylight and sunset viewing, with the ride beginning in the early afternoon. The route takes you past vibrant rice paddies, some green and lush, others yellow as the harvest approaches, offering excellent photo opportunities.

The guide leads the group through less-traveled paths, giving insight into the local agricultural practices. You’ll see farmers tending to their fields, perhaps hear the faint sounds of traditional tools, and get a glimpse into the local way of life. The stop at the most scenic sunset view spot is planned around 4:30 PM, giving plenty of time to relax, soak in the scenery, and enjoy your drinks.

What Makes the Experience Special

The scenery on this tour is genuinely striking — endless rice fields stretching to the horizon, lotus flowers floating on water, and the relaxed pace lets you take it all in. The guides’ knowledge adds value, helping you understand what you’re seeing and perhaps sharing stories about everyday Cambodian rural life, which adds an authentic touch.

The highlight for many is the sunset itself. Surrounded by lotus flowers, you’ll sip cold drinks or beers, watch the sky change color, and feel a sense of peace that’s hard to find in busy city life. The post-ride beers are a nice touch, giving you a chance to chat with fellow travelers and reflect on the journey.

Practical Details and What’s Included

For $18, the tour provides a mountain bike and helmet, a water bottle, a local snack, and a soft drink or beer during the sunset. Afterward, you’re entitled to two draft beers at the bar — a surprisingly good deal considering the scenic backdrop and the personalized experience.

The tour is tailored for those comfortable on a bike; if you’re not confident riding, this isn’t for you. It’s also not suitable for children under 18, so families with young kids might want to look elsewhere. The tour’s small group size ensures a more intimate experience, and the guides speak English fluently.

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The Pedal and the Pace

The 27 km ride isn’t overly strenuous but does require some basic cycling ability. The terrain is mostly flat, but the roads can be uneven or dusty—so sporty clothes and sturdy shoes are recommended. Expect several stops for photos and to soak in the views, making it a leisurely pace rather than a vigorous workout.

Timing-wise, you’ll leave the base around 3:00 PM, with the sunset viewing around 4:30 PM, giving plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery. You’ll return to the hostel by 6:30 PM, just in time for dinner or further exploration.

Authenticity and Cultural Insights

Many travelers appreciate how the guide helps them understand the local agricultural practices and rural lifestyle. Observing farmers working in the rice paddies, you get a glimpse of daily life that many travelers miss. The photo stops are well-placed, allowing for scenic shots, especially of the golden rice fields and lotus flowers.

Potential Drawbacks

While the experience is largely positive, there are some considerations. The tour is only offered twice a week, which might limit flexibility for some travelers. Plus, the review from Clémence highlights a less-than-ideal experience where a canceled tour left her waiting without notice — a reminder to confirm bookings and check current availability.

On top of that, if you’re not comfortable cycling or have mobility issues, this activity isn’t suitable. The terrain and the distance require a basic level of fitness and bike-handling skills.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cycling tour appeals most to adventurous travelers who want to see Cambodia beyond Angkor Wat, enjoy outdoor activities, and are comfortable riding a bike for a few hours. It’s also perfect for those seeking a relaxed social atmosphere with scenic views and authentic local encounters. If you’re after a peaceful, photographic experience with a touch of local culture, this tour offers excellent value.

However, if you prefer guided bus tours with more historical commentary or are traveling with young kids or non-cyclists, this might not be the best fit.

The Sum Up

The Mad Monkey Siem Reap Sunset Countryside Cycling Tour combines scenic beauty, local flavor, and laid-back fun at an accessible price point. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the rural side of Cambodia, away from the crowds, and to witness a breathtaking sunset that leaves a lasting impression. The inclusion of drinks, snacks, and beers makes it feel like a social event as much as a sightseeing activity.

For travelers who enjoy cycling, photography, and experiencing everyday Cambodian life, this tour offers genuine value and memorable moments. It’s best suited for those who want a relaxed yet active afternoon immersed in nature and local culture, all while watching one of nature’s most beautiful displays: the sunset over lotus-filled ponds.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 18 years old, likely due to the cycling distance and outdoor nature of the activity.

What do I need to bring?
Bring a cap or sun hat, comfortable clothes suitable for biking, sturdy shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the views.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, it offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if your plans change.

What is included in the price?
You get a mountain bike and helmet, water bottle, a local snack, a soft drink or beer, and two draft beers after the ride.

What about the group size?
The experience benefits from a smaller, guided group, ensuring personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Is this tour offered daily?
No, it’s only available on Mondays and Fridays, so plan accordingly.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 4 hours, including the ride, stops, and sunset viewing.

What’s the distance covered?
Approximately 27 km, mostly flat terrain, making it suitable for average cyclists.

Are the roads safe and manageable?
The roads are rural and may be uneven or dusty, so sturdy footwear and cautious riding are advised.

What time do we start and finish?
Meet at 2:45 PM in the hostel lobby; the ride starts around 3:00 PM, with the return around 6:30 PM.

In all, this cycling tour offers a wonderful combination of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and relaxed socializing — an authentic way to see the Cambodian countryside and unwind at sunset.

You can check availability for your dates here: