BAMBOOS Ride for Change – The Capital to Angkor

$2,000.00 /person

Overview

At a Glance:

The Capital to Angkor ride is a 7-day journey through rural Cambodia that combines a 400 km cycling challenge across 5-day riding days with a clear commitment to sustainable development.

Cambodia is one of Southeast Asia’s most authentic countries. Despite carrying one of the darkest chapters of modern history during the Khmer Rouge regime of the 1970s, the country today is defined by the resilience, warmth, and generosity of its people. Travellers are often struck by the humility, gratitude, and strong sense of community shaped by Buddhist culture.

This ride is designed to support BAMBOOS, a Danish non-profit NGO that works to create tangible and lasting change for Cambodian communities by building and improving public schools, strengthening local communities, and expanding access to education. Through its work, BAMBOOS helps pave the way for future jobs and opportunities for Cambodian youth, while also offering international volunteers the chance to participate in life-changing experiences through educational programmes in the country.

The route follows the Mekong River, taking you off the main roads and onto local side tracks and riverside trails. You will cross to Koh Pen Island by ferry, cycle over the famous Bamboo Bridge, and pass through villages where daily life continues much as it has for generations. Along the way, riders experience a side of Cambodia that few organised tours reach, where local communities greet cyclists with curiosity and warm smiles.

The final day takes you through the forest trails and ancient temple grounds of Angkor Wat, one of the most remarkable cultural sites in the world. Watching the sunrise over the temples after five days of riding across the country is a powerful and unforgettable moment that marks the culmination of the journey.

By taking part, you are raising funds that support BAMBOOS in their mission to strengthen public schools and train the next generation of Cambodian teachers and doctors. During the journey, riders will also have the opportunity to visit communities connected to BAMBOOS’ work and see firsthand how education programmes, bicycles, and school support initiatives are helping transform opportunities for young people.

This ride is a chance to take on a meaningful physical challenge while contributing to long-term educational programmes in the very communities you cycle through.

Equipment:

We provide high quality Cannondale Trail 6 as our standard touring bicycle. This is a reliable and comfortable mountain bike equipped with 2×8 speed gearing, hydraulic disc brakes, and front suspension with lockout for varied terrain. Adjustable stems are available upon request to ensure a personalised fit, and each bike (sizes S, M, L, and XL) includes two bottle holders.

While we provide all the necessary gear, you are more than welcome to bring your own saddle or helmet if you prefer. Our team will be on hand to install your personal saddle and make any adjustments for you during the setup.

For riders seeking an extra boost, we offer the option to upgrade to pedal-assist with Giant Talon E+3 bikes for $196 USD.

Tour Highlights

Fundraising for life-changing programs at BAMBOOS
Visit schools, families, and the local BAMBOOS team creating change
Authentic set-up with a high level of comfort and professionalism
Riding with like-minded people
See parts of Cambodia most tourists don’t go
The opportunity to explore the lesser known villages throughout Cambodia
Enjoy a final day of cycling through UNESCO’s Angkor Temple Complex, exploring jungle trails and lesser known paths
Finish Line Dinner event to celebrate your achievements for the community

Included

English speaking guides, mechanics, and air-conditioned support vehicles carrying water, ice, soft drinks, coffee, snacks, and lunch.
Support scooter on the road providing additional water and assistance during the ride.
5 nights of twin-share accommodation throughout the journey, with the final night in a single room.
High-standard start and finish hotels.
All meals and refreshments included from dinner on 01 November 2026 to breakfast on 07 November 2026, including water and soft drinks during the ride.
Welcome drinks event at the start of the tour and a celebratory finish-line drink. and dinner event.
Cannondale Trail 6 mountain bike rental (2×8 gearing, hydraulic disc brakes, front suspension) including helmet, top tube bag, bell, and bottle holders.
Full logistical support and transportation from check-in to check-out, including ferry crossings, transfers, and temple entrance fees.
Merchandise pack, including:
- - BAMBOOS cycling jersey
  - BAMBOOS sport t-shirt
  - shoulder/drawstring bag
  - arm sleeves
  - neck buff
  - two water bottles
Participants are welcome to bring their own saddle, pedals, or helmet if preferred.

Excluded

Flights to/from Cambodia
Airport transfers
Travel insurance (mandatory)
Visa
E-bike upgrade
Personal expenses and optional trip extensions
Fundraising $3,000 USD for BAMBOOS
Tips & Gratuities

Note:

Minimum 10 participants required.
Due to the dynamic nature of road development and potential changes in road conditions, the provided estimates for cycling distances, transfer times, and hotels are approximations and may be subject to change.

Tour Itinerary

Arrival & Welcome Event (D)

Make your way to The Palace Gate Hotel, a beautiful property located in the heart of Phnom Penh overlooking the Royal Palace and Mekong River. The afternoon is yours to relax, explore the capital, or settle in after your journey.

At 5:30 PM, join the BAMBOOS and Ripple Effect Rides team for a casual Meet & Greet where you can hand over any personal pedals or saddles for installation by our mechanics. At 6:30 PM, we gather for official Welcome Drinks with your fellow riders — the perfect opportunity to connect as a group and set the tone for the journey ahead.
Mekong River Ride (B, L, D) – 116 km

Your cycling adventure begins as we leave Phnom Penh and follow the banks of the mighty Mekong River. The ride gradually transitions from city energy into peaceful countryside, revealing the landscapes and daily rhythms of rural Cambodia.

Along the way you’ll pass working farms, riverside villages, and scenes of traditional life shaped by the river. One of today’s standout moments is crossing the famous Bamboo Bridge in Kampong Cham — a uniquely Cambodian experience.

We arrive in Kampong Cham and check into Hanchey Bamboo, a riverside stay with sweeping Mekong views and a relaxed atmosphere to unwind after your first day in the saddle.
Mekong River & Rural Life (B, L, D) – 98 km

Today we continue following the Mekong deeper into Cambodia’s countryside. Leaving Kampong Cham behind, the ride reveals a slower pace of life where wooden homes line the riverbanks and friendly waves from locals and children are never far away.

The route winds through villages and farmland, offering an authentic glimpse into daily life along the river. Midday, we stop for a picnic lunch prepared by the Ripple Effect Rides support team — a chance to refuel, relax, and take in the surroundings.

In the afternoon we continue toward Kratie, a charming riverside town known for its laid-back character and scenic views. Tonight’s stay is at Sorya Guesthouse, a comfortable base for the evening.
River Crossings & Countryside Trails (B, L, D) – 77 km Cycling + 90 min Transfer

This morning begins with a ride south from Kratie before boarding a local ferry to cross the Mekong — a memorable experience that offers beautiful river perspectives. Once across, we continue cycling through quiet rural landscapes and peaceful countryside roads.

After lunch and another enjoyable stretch of riding, we meet our support vehicle for a comfortable air-conditioned transfer to Kampong Thom. This allows us to skip busier sections of road while keeping the ride enjoyable and well paced.

Upon arrival, you’ll have time to relax at the Glorious Hotel and recharge for the final stages of the journey.
The Road to Siem Reap (B, L, D) – 150 min Transfer + 70 km Cycling

After breakfast, we transfer closer to Siem Reap province to begin the next stage of riding in a scenic and quieter region. From our starting point, we cycle through peaceful countryside and into landscapes that hint at the ancient history ahead.

This ride offers a beautiful introduction to the region surrounding Angkor, combining relaxed riding with striking scenery. After lunch along the route, we complete our day by cycling directly to our hotel in Siem Reap.

Arriving together as a group brings a real sense of achievement as you settle into your base for the final day’s celebration ride.

Enjoy a delicious lunch along the route. As the afternoon progresses, we will complete our challenge by cycling directly into our hotel for the evening. Check in, feeling a tremendous sense of accomplishment, and relax at Sokha Palace Hotel in Siem Reap, ready for tomorrow’s visit to Angkor Wat.
The Road to Angkor & Finish Line Celebration (B, L, D) – 39 km

Today marks the grand finale of your journey.

We begin early with a transfer to Angkor Wat for a spectacular sunrise over the temple towers — one of Cambodia’s most iconic and unforgettable sights. After exploring the temple complex, the final ride begins, taking you along scenic paths through the Angkor grounds and past historic sites including Bayon and Ta Prohm.

The ride concludes at the official finish line, where celebrations await. Afterwards, we return to FCC Angkor by Avani to relax before gathering for the evening’s Finish Line Dinner celebrating the achievement of the ride and the shared impact created along the way. A special surprise is planned to make this final evening unforgettable.