Imagine drifting quietly above the lush landscapes and ancient ruins of Cambodia’s Angkor region, catching a glimpse of the sunrise or sunset from a perspective that’s as rare as it is breathtaking. That’s the promise of the hot air balloon ride around Siem Reap, offered by Angkor Focus Travel.
While it’s not a typical temple tour, this experience aims to give you a bird’s-eye view of Bakong Temple and the surrounding countryside, adding a touch of adventure and awe to your Angkor visit.
We love that this tour offers amazing panoramic views—flying high over rice fields, villages, and the iconic Bakong Temple provides a perspective impossible to get on foot or by car. Plus, the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off saves you the hassle of arranging transfers.
On the flip side, some travelers have found the experience less than memorable, especially if expectations about seeing major temples like Angkor Wat aren’t managed carefully.
This ride is probably best for those seeking a serene, scenic experience rather than a comprehensive temple exploration.
This balloon ride suits travelers craving something a bit different—an atmospheric adventure that offers fantastic views and a sense of floating, at a reasonable price point. If you’re after spectacular photo ops or a peaceful moment above the bustling town, it might be just what you’re looking for. However, if you’re expecting it to be a substitute for temple touring, you might be disappointed.
Key Points
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8 / 8- Spectacular aerial views of Bakong Temple and the Cambodian countryside.
- Convenient logistics with hotel pickup and drop-off included.
- Limited flights twice daily, at sunrise and sunset, with a duration of around 35 minutes.
- Small group experience with up to 10 participants, ensuring a more intimate atmosphere.
- Cost of $219 per person, with some reviews questioning the value compared to the experience.
- Weather-dependent — cancellations are possible if conditions aren’t suitable, with full refunds if the flight is canceled.
What to Expect from the Hot Air Balloon Ride
The experience starts with hotel pickup—usually about 30 minutes before your scheduled flight. From there, you’ll be driven to a launch site near Siem Reap, where the crew will prepare the balloon. The round-trip transportation is included, and the whole process feels professional, with an English-speaking driver and small group size.
Flights happen twice daily, at sunrise around 6:20–6:30 a.m. and at sunset around 5:30–5:40 p.m. You can choose which to join, depending on your schedule and weather conditions. The balloon can carry up to 25 passengers, but in practice, the experience tends to be more intimate.
The flight lasts approximately 35 minutes, during which you’ll drift over the landscape, soaking in views of Bakong Temple, rice paddies, and local villages. You might find this a peaceful, almost meditative experience—floating silently above the fields—though some reviews mention haze or clouds obscuring the sunrise, which can diminish the visual impact.
When you land, you’ll be transported back to your hotel, completing a smooth, hassle-free experience. For many, the highlight is the bird’s-eye view of the countryside, with wide-open skies stretching as far as the eye can see.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Siem Reap.
The Itinerary in Detail
Pickup at your hotel in Krong Siem Reap kicks off the adventure. The transfer to the launch site is typically about 30 minutes, allowing for some scenic glimpses of the town en route. Once there, you’ll see the preparation of the balloon, which adds a bit of anticipation to the morning or evening.
The flight itself is relatively short—around 35 minutes—but packed with stunning vistas. Since the balloon only goes twice a day, your timing is crucial. The early morning flight offers a chance to see the sunrise, while the sunset ride captures the picturesque Cambodian landscape in warm, golden light.
After the flight, you’ll be taken back to your hotel. The entire process from pickup to return usually takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, making it a compact yet memorable addition to your trip.
Authentic Experiences and Traveler Insights
One reviewer shared, “The pick-up was well organized. I was on time,” highlighting the smooth logistics. Another noted, “We drifted over dry rice fields for about 28 minutes before landing,” emphasizing the tranquil, scenic nature of the flight.
However, not all reviews are glowing. Craig expressed disappointment, saying, “Our pickup was late then we crawled through town for other passengers before slowly making our way to the balloon, clearly to keep launch near sunrise. We lifted off in the haze at about 6:30, the sunrise obscured by haze and clouds. We basically saw the same sights we had on landing in Siem Reap Airport.” This comment underscores how weather can impact the experience and that expectations about spectacular sunrise views should be tempered.
Another review pointed out that the flight did not pass over the main temples. While the views are beautiful, they are primarily of the countryside and Bakong Temple rather than the larger Angkor temples like Angkor Wat—a key consideration for those hoping for temple panoramas.
Analyzing the Cost and Value
At $219 per person, this balloon ride isn’t cheap, especially considering the short duration. For some, the price is justified by the unique perspective and the peacefulness of drifting silently over the landscape. Others, however, may find it pricey for what is essentially a quick sightseeing flight with limited views of the famed temples.
The small group size (limited to 10 participants) does enhance the feeling of intimacy, and included transportation ensures a stress-free experience. Yet, as one reviewer pointed out, the views may not always justify the expense, especially if weather conditions obscure the sunrise or the sights don’t meet your expectations.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Should Consider This Experience?
This hot air balloon ride is ideal for those looking for a peaceful, scenic adventure rather than a comprehensive temple tour. It’s perfect if you want a unique photo opportunity or a memorable moment floating above the Cambodian countryside.
However, if your main goal is to explore Angkor’s ancient temples, this experience should be viewed as a supplement—not a substitute. Be prepared for the possibility that weather might impact the views, and don’t expect the ride to pass directly over the most iconic temples.
Final Thoughts
A hot air balloon ride in Siem Reap offers a rare vantage point and a serene break from temple-hopping. The views of Bakong Temple and the surrounding rice fields are genuinely picturesque, making it a worthwhile addition for those seeking a special experience.
That said, it’s essential to keep expectations realistic. The experience is heavily weather-dependent, and some travelers may find it underwhelming if clouds obscure the sunrise or if the views don’t match their anticipation. The price point might seem steep considering the duration, but the quiet majesty of drifting above the landscape can be quite special.
This tour best suits adventurous travelers eager to see Angkor from a new angle, photographers looking for unique shots, or anyone craving a peaceful moment above the hustle and bustle of Siem Reap. For those who value authentic, scenic experiences and are flexible with weather, it can be a highlight of your trip.
From Krong Siem Reap: Angkor Hot Air Balloon Ride w/ Pickup
FAQs
How long does the balloon ride last?
The flight itself lasts about 35 minutes, with the entire experience including pickup and return taking roughly 1.5 to 2 hours.
What times are the flights available?
Flights are scheduled twice daily: a sunrise trip around 6:20–6:30 a.m. and a sunset trip around 5:30–5:40 p.m., depending on weather conditions.
Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, with a 30-minute drive to and from the launch site.
What is the maximum number of passengers?
The balloon can carry up to 25 passengers, but most flights tend to be smaller, with a limit of 10 participants for a more intimate experience.
Can I choose between sunrise and sunset?
Yes, you can select your preferred time when booking, but availability might depend on weather conditions.
What about weather cancellations?
Flights are weather-dependent; if conditions aren’t suitable, the flight will be canceled, and you’ll receive a full refund.
What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing and a sense of adventure. Since the ride is high above the ground, dress for the weather and bring your camera.
Is there an age or weight limit?
Passengers weighing over 110 kg will be charged double. There’s no specific age restriction noted, but it’s best for those comfortable with heights.
In the end, a hot air balloon ride near Siem Reap can give you a gentle, memorable view of Cambodia’s landscape from an entirely new angle. While not everyone might find it a game-changer, for those who love tranquil, scenic moments and fantastic photo opportunities, it’s a peaceful way to add a touch of adventure to your Angkor trip.
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