Cycling in Cambodia
Including Battambang Countryside, Cardamom Mountains Wilderness, and Kampot and Bokor Foothills. On the map.
The vibe
Cycling here is a chaotic, sensory-heavy experience where you share the road with everything from heavy trucks to wandering livestock. The cooler, dry months are essential for long rides, as the midday heat becomes punishing by late spring. It feels like a genuine adventure for self-supported riders who are comfortable navigating busy, unpaved arteries and quiet rural tracks.
Battambang Countryside
Battambang
Adriaan Castermans / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
The rural landscape surrounding Battambang features quiet dirt paths winding through rice paddies, traditional stilt villages, and fruit orchards. It is the quintessential Cambodian cycling experience, focusing on local culture and slow-paced exploration.
Access. Bike rentals are easily sourced in Battambang town. Many local guesthouses offer maps for self-guided loops or arrange guided village tours.
Notes. Routes are mostly flat and suitable for casual riders; expect dusty conditions in the dry season.
Cardamom Mountains Wilderness
Koh Kong
Earth Science and Remote Sensing Unit , Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)
This vast protected area offers some of the most remote and challenging gravel and mountain bike touring in Southeast Asia. Riders traverse dense rainforests, river crossings, and red-dirt logging roads that offer true wilderness immersion.
Access. Best accessed via guided multi-day expeditions departing from Koh Kong or Chi Phat community-based tourism hubs.
Notes. Requires high level of fitness and self-sufficiency; remote area with limited support.
Kampot and Bokor Foothills
Kampot
Earth Science and Remote Sensing Unit , Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)
The region around Kampot is famous for its scenic loops through salt fields, pepper plantations, and the dramatic backdrop of the Elephant Mountains. Riders can choose between flat coastal paths or challenging climbs up to the former hill station of Bokor.
Access. Kampot town serves as the main base with many rental shops. E-bikes are increasingly popular for tackling the steep ascent to Bokor National Park.
Notes. The road to Bokor is paved but steep; ensure brakes are in good condition for the descent.
Koh Rong Island
Khaet Preah Sihanouk
Kris Martyn / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Koh Rong features a network of jungle trails and sandy paths that connect the island's various beaches and interior villages. It offers a rugged, tropical cycling experience for those looking to explore beyond the main tourist piers.
Access. Mountain bikes can be rented in Koh Touch; transport to the island is via ferry from Sihanoukville.
Notes. Trails can be sandy and technical; check local conditions as some paths are seasonal.
Kratie Mekong River Trail
Kratie
Jensre / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Following the Mekong River north of Kratie, this route offers stunning river views and the chance to spot the rare Irrawaddy dolphins. The path remains largely rural, passing through riverside villages and lush tropical scenery.
Access. Bicycles can be rented in Kratie. The route is linear, allowing riders to cycle as far as they like before returning or arranging a local transport pickup.
Notes. The roads are a mix of paved sections and well-packed dirt; best enjoyed in the early morning or late afternoon.
Mondulkiri Highlands
Mondulkiri
Laottre (or "Mr. Jack" as claimed by the uploader in the caption of voy:KNN Resort Mondulkiri (deleted) ) / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The rolling hills and cooler climate of Mondulkiri provide a refreshing contrast to the lowlands, featuring rugged tracks through pine forests and ethnic minority villages. It is a premier destination for those seeking elevation and off-road adventure.
Access. Sen Monorom serves as the main hub for bike rentals and organizing multi-day guided mountain bike expeditions.
Notes. Terrain is hilly and challenging; best suited for experienced mountain bikers.