Angkor Stunning Hot Air Balloon

Our review focuses on the Angkor Stunning Hot Air Balloon experience — a must-consider for travelers seeking a memorable way to see the majestic temples of Angkor from above. While we haven’t personally floated over Bakong Temple, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a clear picture of an adventure that blends thrill, tranquility, and awe.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this tour are its early morning and evening timing, which offers spectacular sunrise or sunset vistas, and the professional organization that ensures a smooth, safe, and memorable experience.

That said, the price of $175 per person might seem steep for some, especially backpackers on a tight budget, but considering the views and the uniqueness of the experience, it could be perceived as excellent value.

A key consideration is weather dependency — since flights are only scheduled twice a day and can be canceled due to weather conditions, travelers should be flexible with their plans. This adventure suits those who enjoy aerial views, quiet reflection, and a touch of adventure without expecting to visit Angkor Wat itself from the air.

Key Points

• Unmatched Perspective: See Bakong Temple and surrounding Angkor highlights from the sky.
• Twice Daily Flights: Choose between sunrise and sunset for optimal lighting.
• All-Inclusive: Hotel pickup, drop-off, and transportation included.
• Limited Group Size: Flights carry up to 25 passengers, ensuring a relatively intimate experience.
• Weather-Dependent: Cancellations happen if weather conditions are unsafe.
• Price vs. Value: At $175, it’s a premium experience, but many reviewers feel it’s worth every penny.
• Family Friendly? Not suitable for children under 11, pregnant women, or people with certain health issues.
• Photography Opportunities: Professional photographers can capture your moments, enhancing this once-in-a-lifetime memory.
• Flexible Booking & Cancellation: Reserve now, pay later, with full refunds possible if canceled in time.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Flight Experience

The hot air balloon ride in Siem Reap offers a peaceful, almost meditative experience of floating over Cambodia’s lush landscape. The flight lasts approximately 30 to 35 minutes, providing plenty of time to admire the scenery and snap photos. The hot air balloon itself is designed to carry up to 25 passengers, which means you’re sharing the sky with a small group rather than a crowded flock.

The rides only happen twice a day, at sunrise or sunset. The early-morning trip kicks off around 6:20 am to 6:30 am, ideal if you want to catch the dawn’s first light; the sunset flights start around 5:30 pm to 5:40 pm, perfect for a romantic end to your day. The timing of these flights isn’t just about the weather — it’s about capturing the best natural light for unforgettable views.

How the Tour Begins: Hotel Pickup and Transportation

Your day begins with hotel pickup, included in the price — a relief after hearing how some tours can be disorganized. An English-speaking driver will collect you roughly 30 minutes before departure, ensuring you arrive relaxed and ready for flight. You’ll be transported to the launch site in a comfortable minivan, with most travelers appreciating how smoothly this part of the experience unfolds — many reviews praise the politeness and punctuality of the team.

Bring along sunglasses and a camera — the latter to capture the sweeping panoramas. The pick-up time will be confirmed after booking, so it’s good to stay flexible on the morning of your adventure.

The Launch Site and Setup

Once at the site, the team works efficiently to set up the balloons. From the reviews, it’s clear they are well-organized and professional, creating a reassuring environment for passengers. The balloons are prepared to ensure safety and comfort, with crew members explaining what to expect during the flight.

As the balloon inflates, you’ll get a sense of the quiet anticipation. The balloon itself is large but stable, and many travelers find the gentle ascent soothing — a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of temple touring on the ground.

The Flight Over Bakong and the Surroundings

This is where the magic happens. As you drift higher, the views of Bakong Temple become breathtaking. You’ll see the ancient stonework from a perspective impossible on foot, with the temple’s symmetrical layout and surrounding jungle providing a stunning contrast.

Beyond Bakong, the Cambodian countryside spreads out in all directions — lush rice fields, small villages, winding rivers, and distant mountains. The bird’s eye view offers a different understanding of the landscape, one that highlights Cambodia’s rural charm and the scale of Angkor’s archaeological marvels.

As one reviewer shared, “The views were amazing,” and many mention how peaceful and smooth the ride was, even mentioning a professional photographer was available to take pictures. While not all balloons have onboard photographers, the opportunity to capture these moments makes the experience even more special.

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Highlights of the Experience

Sunrise or Sunset Magic

Travelers consistently praise the timing of the flights. Watching the sunrise over Angkor or the sunset in the evening enhances the experience with stunning natural light, casting warm hues across the landscape. The early start might be challenging, but many agree it’s absolutely worth it, with the views and tranquility making it memorable.

The View of Temples and the Cambodian Countryside

From the sky, you’ll see Bakong Temple in detail, appreciating its architectural symmetry and historical significance. You might also glimpse Lolei Temple and other nearby structures, adding to the sense of floating above history.

A Peaceful, Reflective Experience

Many reviewers describe the flight as soothing and peaceful, with the gentle drift giving ample time for reflection and taking in the scenery. It’s perfect for photographers or anyone wanting a unique perspective on the Angkor region.

Additional Considerations

Weather and Cancellations

Since the flights depend heavily on weather, cancellations are possible, especially if conditions aren’t safe. If this happens, a full refund is usually provided. The flights are scheduled only twice daily, so flexibility in your schedule is advisable.

Price and Value

At $175 per person, the tour is on the higher end of local excursions but many feel it’s justified by the quality of experience and stunning visuals. Multiple reviews mention that the professional setup and knowledgeable guides make it worth every penny.

Who Should Avoid It?

This isn’t suitable for children under 11, pregnant women, or those with certain health limitations such as heart problems or altitude sickness. The 45-minute window on the ground is relatively short, but the experience is quiet and gentle, especially suited for those comfortable with heights.

This hot air balloon ride is best suited for travelers who value spectacular views, are comfortable early mornings or late afternoons, and want a peaceful, almost meditative experience. It’s particularly appealing for photographers and those seeking a unique perspective of Angkor’s temples away from crowds.

If you’re after a luxury experience that pairs adventure with cultural insight, this tour offers a balanced mix of tranquility and awe. The professional organization and small group size make for a comfortable journey, and the views will stay with you long after your trip ends.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or dislike weather-dependent activities, it’s worth considering the flexibility required before booking. And if you’re traveling with very young children or have health concerns, this might not be the best fit.

The Angkor Stunning Hot Air Balloon promises a memorable and photo-worthy way to see Cambodia’s sacred landscapes from above — a lofty highlight of any Siem Reap stay.

Is the hot air balloon ride suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 11 years old, mainly due to safety and height considerations.

What is the cost of the tour?
The price is $175 per person, which includes hotel pickup, transportation, and the flight.

When do the flights take place?
There are two scheduled flights daily — at sunrise (around 6:20-6:30 am) and at sunset (around 5:30-5:40 pm).

How long does the flight last?
The balloon remains in the air for approximately 30 to 35 minutes.

What’s included in the tour?
Your package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation in a car/minivan, and an English-speaking driver.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses and a camera to capture the stunning views.

Can the flight be canceled?
Yes, if weather conditions aren’t safe, the flight will be canceled and a full refund is issued.

Is there an option to reschedule?
Yes, rescheduling is possible once if done more than 2 days before the flight, with a small fee of $25 per person.

What if I weigh over 110 kg?
Passengers over 110 kg will be required to pay double the fare for safety reasons.

How do I confirm my booking?
You need to provide details such as flight date, number of passengers, hotel info, and weight when booking, and payment is made before the flight.

Whether you’re an adventure seeker or simply craving a peaceful moment above Cambodia’s ancient lands, the Angkor Stunning Hot Air Balloon offers a chance to see Angkor from a perspective few get to experience. It’s a blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty — well worth considering for your next trip to Siem Reap.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby