If you’re planning a trip to Siem Reap and want to see Cambodia’s stunning temples from a whole new angle, the Angkor Stunning Hot Air Balloon experience might just be your ticket to the skies. This tour offers an extraordinary way to view the UNESCO World Heritage site that is Angkor Archaeological Park, elevating your sightseeing with panoramic vistas from a hot air balloon.
While it doesn’t come cheap at $216 per person, the view and the experience can make it worth every penny—if weather cooperates, that is.
We’re particularly fond of how this tour combines the thrill of soaring high above centuries-old temples with the peaceful beauty of sunrise or sunset. The chance to drift gently over Bakong, Preh Ko, and Lolei Temples, along with lush rice fields and rustic villages, creates an authentic sense of Cambodian life and history.
On the flip side, a potential downside is the weather dependency—windy days can bring cancellations, which can be frustrating if you’re eager for that early morning adventure.
But if you’re a lover of unique views and memorable experiences, this tour is well worth considering, especially for those who don’t mind an early start or a twilight flight.
This experience suits travelers who crave authentic, picture-perfect moments above Cambodia’s iconic ruins, those eager to see Angkor from an entirely new vantage point, and anyone with a sense of adventure. It’s also perfect if you’ve got some flexibility in your schedule and want to add a truly memorable highlight to your Siem Reap trip.
Key Points
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8 / 8- Stunning Views: Experience panoramic perspectives of Bakong Temple and the surrounding countryside.
- Flexible Timing: Available twice daily at sunrise and sunset, accommodating different schedules.
- Comfort and Convenience: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making the journey hassle-free.
- Limited Capacity: Up to 25 passengers, creating a relatively intimate experience.
- Weather Sensitive: Flights depend heavily on weather conditions, with cancellations possible.
- Value for Experience: Priced at $216, offering a once-in-a-lifetime perspective on Angkor’s temples.
Setting the Scene: What to Expect When You Book
Booking the hot air balloon ride is straightforward but requires some planning. You’ll need to specify your preferred flight time—either early morning at sunrise (around 6:20-6:30 am) or late afternoon at sunset (around 5:30-5:40 pm). The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, so you won’t need to worry about transportation—just be ready in your hotel lobby about 10 minutes prior to your scheduled pickup.
Once you’re on the way, the ride itself lasts about 30 to 35 minutes, which gives you plenty of time to soak in the views and snap some photos. The balloon can carry between 18 and 25 passengers, making it a cozy enough group to enjoy the scenery without feeling crowded.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Siem Reap.
The Itinerary Breakdown
The tour begins with your hotel pickup in Siem Reap, where a private vehicle whisks you to the launch site. This short journey sets the tone for the experience—expect a relaxed atmosphere with comfortable transportation. Depending on your chosen time slot, you’ll set off at dawn or in the late afternoon, with the sky already beginning to tell a story—either the first light of day or the warm glow of sunset.
Following your ascent, you’ll drift over Bakong Temple, an ancient Khmer structure that dates back to the 9th century. From this height, the temple’s intricate layout is laid bare, revealing the symmetry and scale that can be hard to appreciate from ground level. As you glide over the surrounding rice fields and small villages, you’ll marvel at the lush Cambodian countryside.
The experience’s highlight is undoubtedly the bird’s-eye view of the temples and the countryside, offering a fresh perspective on the area’s rich history and landscape. It’s an excellent opportunity for photographers to capture exceptional shots with minimal crowds, as most visitors explore the temples on foot.
The View and Atmosphere
We loved the way the balloon ride allows you to see the grandeur of Bakong Temple in context, with the sprawling fields and distant mountains framing the scene. The peaceful silence, broken only by the occasional burst of flame from the burner, enhances the sense of floating above the world. Many travelers have shared how this perspective adds a new dimension to their understanding of Angkor’s scale and setting.
According to reviews, the views during sunrise are particularly striking, with the soft morning light casting a warm glow over the temples and fields. One traveler noted, “I enjoyed the Cambodian scenery as the sun rose,” emphasizing how magical this moment can be.
Weather and Cancellations
One important consideration is the weather. Windy or stormy conditions can ground the balloon, leading to cancellations. A traveler expressed frustration about this, noting that “On the day of the experience, I was waiting for someone to pick me up early in the morning, but they didn’t come, so I called and they said, ‘It’s too windy, so we can’t do it.’” The company does their best to notify travelers as soon as possible but understanding the weather’s unpredictability is wise.
If the flight is canceled due to weather, a full refund is typically provided, which adds a layer of reassurance. Still, it’s worth planning your trip with some flexibility in mind, especially if the flight is part of a tightly scheduled itinerary.
More Great Tours NearbyCost and Value
At $216 per person, this experience isn’t cheap. But when you consider the unique perspective on Angkor and the Cambodian landscape it provides, many find it a worthwhile splurge. The inclusion of hotel transfers, ease of logistics, and the unforgettable views add to its value. For travelers looking for a one-of-a-kind photography opportunity or a memorable highlight of their trip, this can be a genuinely worthwhile expense.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This tour best suits those with an adventurous spirit and a love for exceptional visuals. It’s ideal for travelers who don’t mind early mornings or late afternoons and are comfortable with weather-dependent activities. Those interested in photography, culture, and experiencing Cambodia from a different angle will find this tour especially rewarding.
Angkor Stunning Hot Air Balloon
Additional Details
- Languages: The tour is conducted in English, making communication straightforward.
- Rescheduling & Cancellation: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, or reschedule once with a fee. Same-day cancellations mean no refund unless weather causes the cancellation.
- Passenger Weight: Passengers over 110 kg will be charged double, which is useful to know upfront.
- Booking Notes: You’ll need to provide specific details including the number of passengers, weights, hotel info, and preferred flight time when booking.
For those eager to see Angkor’s temples from an entirely new perspective, this hot air balloon ride offers an unforgettable way to connect with Cambodia’s rich landscape and history. The views from above are truly spectacular, especially during sunrise or sunset, when the light enhances every detail. The inclusion of hotel transfers and the intimate size of the flight make it feel like a special, well-organized adventure.
However, it’s important to remember that this experience is weather-dependent, and cancellations can occur—sometimes last minute. If you’re flexible, patient, and keen on capturing that perfect aerial shot, the investment can be justified.
This tour isn’t for everyone—if you prefer ground-based sightseeing or dislike early mornings, you might find the schedule less appealing. But for those who want a memorable, scenic highlight that combines adventure with culture, this hot air balloon flyover delivers a rare and special view of Angkor.
How long is the hot air balloon flight?
The flight lasts about 30 to 35 minutes, giving ample time for sightseeing and photos.
What are the flight times?
Flights are available twice daily—one at sunrise (around 6:20-6:30 am) and one at sunset (around 5:30-5:40 pm).
Are hotel transfers included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from your hotel in Siem Reap is included and arranged upon booking.
Can I reschedule or cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the flight for a full refund. Rescheduling is possible once with a fee of $25 per person.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Flights are canceled if conditions are too windy or unsafe. In such cases, you’ll get a full refund or can reschedule.
Is there a weight limit?
Passengers over 110 kg will be charged double the fare.
How many people can fly at once?
Up to 25 passengers can be on a single flight, making it a comfortable group size.
What should I wear or bring?
Dress casually, with layers if it’s early morning, and bring a camera for those incredible views.
Is the experience suitable for children?
The tour is generally suitable for older children and teenagers who are comfortable with heights and early mornings.
How do I book?
You’ll need to specify the flight date, time (sunrise or sunset), number of passengers, weights, and hotel info. Payment is made before the flight.
Flying high over Angkor’s temples and the Cambodian countryside is a rare treat that appeals to those who seek extraordinary views and memorable adventures. While weather can play spoilsport, the promise of witnessing the sunrise or sunset from a hot air balloon makes this a distinctive highlight. It’s a bit of a splurge, yes, but for lovers of scenic photography and cultural vistas, the experience is well worth the investment.
If you’re after a peaceful, awe-inspiring way to see Angkor from above and don’t mind the early mornings or potential cancellations, this hot air balloon ride could be the perfect addition to your Siem Reap itinerary. Just remember, it’s about the views, the thrill, and creating a story you’ll tell for years to come.
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