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7 Days Motorcycle Of Couple Noah - Siem Reap Preah Vihear Banlung Kratie

Hi everyone, we’re Noah and Ella hailing from England. We’ve spent 7 days in Cambodia. This is like an adventure that we will not forget. AUTOUR ASIA is a travel agency in Cambodia which organized the trip for us. Simply fantastic was the trip to Cambodia. Their expert planning revealed the country's authentic side to us. A Cambodia motorbike trip will be just the perfect choice for you if you do love adventure and you do enjoy exploring routes off the beaten path. Thus, what to do in Cambodia? In this article, we share our Cambodia travel itinerary 1 week as we travel through Siem Reap, Preah Vihear, Banlung, along with Kratie. Through this route, you travel wild off-road trails and peaceful countryside. Also on this route are majestic Khmer ruins.

I. Detailed 7-day Cambodia motorbike itinerary – Siem Reap, Preah Vihear, Banlung, Kratie

Day 1: Ride from Siem Reap to Koh Ker Temple (approx. 120 km)

We began our 7-day Cambodia motorbike itinerary in Siem Reap. We drove 110 kilometres northeast to reach Koh Ker, one of the most remote and least known temples complexes in the country. The Koh Ker has retained its natural beauty since it is not yet in the tourist hot spot of Siem Reap. This 1st stop on our 1 week Cambodia itinerary presents the perfect combination of unruly nature and beautiful relics of the Khmer culture.

It involved going through some smooth tarmac roads to rough and difficult dotted paths which was perfect for adrenalin junkies. On our way we rode through rich rice paddies and tranquil villages and we got glimpses of the normal Cambodian life: farmers in the fields, children playing beside the road. These basic bright scenes made us experience a rural and calm mood, and our Cambodia trip became even more memorable.

1 week in Cambodia: what to do? Upon arrival at Koh Ker, it seemed to be another world which was caught in time. the desolate walls of stone, which were covered with moss and weeds, had the signs of seniority and war in them. The ancient Khmer architecture ideas were somewhat scattered and in ruins, however, there were so many details appeared that it was quite possible to be surprised and be impressed by it all.

The major event of the first day of our Cambodia motorbike trip was no doubt Prasat Thom located deep in the forest. It was the oldest sanctuary that amazed us by the stepped pyramid shape that is built upon 7 levels to 36 meters high. The awe-inspiring outline of it and the rest of the nature impressed us speechlessly.

We ended the first day of our 1 week in Cambodia with a night at a local guesthouse near Koh Ker, enjoying the calm and serenity of the Cambodian countryside.

Day 2: From Koh Ker to Preah Vihear Temple by Motorbike (Approx. 150 km)

Early the following morning of our Cambodia motorbike trip day 2, we left Koh Ker and went directly, due north towards Preah Vihear. The name alone filled us with fantasies. Sitting at an altitude of 500 meters near the Thai border, this temple is one of the best Cambodia has to offer, and you’ll realize why after you see it.

The road to get there? A real challenge. It was dirt roads, it was hilly, it was muddy in spots (and really sticky mud), we were sweating, slipping a bit, and every turn was worth it. If you’re a fan of off-road motorbike , this is sheer delight.

And then at the end of the trail, the payoff: the majestic Preah Vihear Temple, standing tall on a mountaintop. What to do in Cambodia? Answer : visit Preah Vihear temple. This sacred site has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 2008 and is dedicated to Shiva. We were absolutely astounded by the size of the site - over a kilometre long with shrines aligned from the bottom to the top. The ruins of the ancient Khmer architecture are beautiful. And the view from the top? To one side, unending Cambodian plains. On the other, the rolling hills of Thailand. It’s a moment stilled in time, between sky, stone and silence.

You’re probably asking yourself what to do in Cambodia in 1 week? Just being up on Preah Vihear, taking it all in, we came to understand that places like this make you feel small, but alive.

Day 3: From Preah Vihear to Stung Treng by Motorbike (Approx. 180 km)

We left Preah Vihear not really knowing what the rest of our 7 days in Cambodia had in store. The only thing we were sure of was that we wanted to keep heading east - still on motorbikes, still chasing adventure. Stung Treng was our next stop, a place still largely off the radar for most travelers.

When we arrived, it felt like time had slowed down. This small town, nestled between the Mekong and San rivers, radiates a gentle calm. No crowds, no noise. Just the river, the sky, and a sense of peace we hadn’t found anywhere else in Cambodia. It was simple and serene, and we loved it immediately.

The ride to Stung Treng remains one of the most memorable parts of our 1 week Cambodia itinerary. We rode over rugged red dirt tracks, passed through countryside roads shaded by thick vegetation, and crossed a few remote villages. The landscapes felt untouched, frozen in time. This was the kind of route that makes the hearts of adventure and nature lovers beat faster.

When we finally arrived in Stung Treng, we felt like we’d stepped into another world. Everything still seemed wild and intact: forests, rivers, wetlands. Nature rules here, and it was incredibly refreshing. Far from the typical tourist trails, we felt like we had reconnected with something essential and pure on this part of our Cambodia road trip.

What to do in Cambodia? In Stung Treng, we took a boat ride on the Mekong River, an unforgettable experience during my 7 days in Cambodia. The current carried us gently through a lush, almost wild landscape, surrounded by rich vegetation and abundant wildlife. It was quiet, peaceful, and deeply moving. The highlight of the day? A magical encounter with the Irrawaddy dolphins, a rare species still found in this remote northeastern region of Cambodia. A simple yet unforgettable moment on our Cambodia trip.

But Stung Treng isn’t just about nature. To connect with local life, we wandered through the central market. This vibrant spot is full of regional products, local crafts, and beautiful handwoven traditional textiles. We met vendors from Cambodia, Laos, and neighboring Vietnam. That reminded us of Stung Treng’s role as a vital crossroads in the region.

We ended the day in a cozy, friendly guesthouse, perfect for resting up before hitting the road again. Stung Treng turned out to be much more than just a stopover. It became one of the most cherished discoveries of our Cambodia one week itinerary.

Day 4: From Stung Treng to Banlung by Motorbike (Approx. 160 km)

We hit the road again, this time riding from Stung Treng to Banlung, in northeastern Cambodia. Honestly, we didn’t know exactly what to expect. What we did know was that Banlung is famous for its unspoiled nature and attracts travelers looking for authentic ecotourism experiences.

But before we got there, we had to ride. And this was no boring stretch: endless curves, bumpy off-road sections, thick forests lining the trail, and tiny, isolated villages along the way. It was intense, physically demanding at times, but absolutely stunning. If you’re into real adventure, this route is a dream.

What to do in Cambodia in 1 week? Just 5 kilometers outside Banlung, we made a stop at Boeng Yeak Lom Crater Lake, a nearly perfect circle formed inside an ancient volcano. The emerald-green water, surrounded by dense forest, was mesmerizing. After so many kilometers on the motorbike, diving into that lake felt like pure bliss - refreshing, quiet, and exactly what we needed.

For those who prefer to stay dry, there's a shaded walking trail that circles the lake. Two wooden docks along the way are perfect for stopping to listen to birds or simply enjoy the stillness. We sat for a few minutes, doing nothing, just taking it all in. And honestly, that was more than enough.

Around the lake, you’ll also encounter the presence of local ethnic minorities. They live nearby, not as a show for tourists, but just as they always have, in harmony with nature. It’s this mix of simplicity and authenticity that makes Boeng Yeak Lom a true highlight on any Cambodia travel itinerary 1 week.

What to do in Cambodia? Later, we continued on to Cha Ong Waterfall, another hidden gem in the area. It's not far from the town, and even the ride there was beautiful. The landscape shifted, rolling hills, valleys, and the cooler air of the plateau. We took our time.

Cha Ong Waterfall stands about 18 meters tall. Not wide, but with a strong flow and great height. We followed a small trail down and eventually reached the base, where we could actually walk behind the waterfall. Through the curtain of water and mist, we could see the forest beyond. There were carvings in the rocks: names and messages left by other travelers. We didn’t know who they were, but in that moment, we felt connected to them.

That night, we stayed in a local guesthouse in the heart of Banlung. Nothing fancy, but clean and peaceful. After the fourth day of our 1 week in Cambodia, it was exactly what we needed.

Day 5: From Banlung to Kratie by Motorbike (Approx. 150 km)

We left Banlung early in the morning, slightly tired, but still excited. Our next destination: Kratie, a small town on the banks of the Mekong River. We’d heard that Kratie was peaceful, with a few traces of its French colonial past.

The ride was beautifully varied: bumpy dirt tracks that made our motorbikes bounce, remote villages hidden between rice fields, and stretches of riverside so calm we instinctively eased off the throttle. It was dynamic, full of life, and never boring.

As soon as we arrived in Kratie, we noticed the pace of life was slower than anywhere else we’d been. Wooden houses, friendly faces, and a town that takes its time and so did we.

We started our visit with the 100-Column Pagoda, one of the must-see sites in Kratie. The place felt meaningful, especially in the context of our Cambodia travel itinerary 1 week. There’s a local legend tied to it: a princess was said to have been eaten by a crocodile, and the 100 columns represent her loyal servants buried with her. It’s a strange, slightly tragic story, but it adds depth to the experience.

As part of our 7 days in Cambodia, we also discovered Roka Kandal Pagoda, less well-known but truly beautiful. Its delicate cut-paper decorations on the columns seemed fragile yet timeless. Set quietly along the Mekong River, this peaceful spot offered us a lovely break.

What to do in Cambodia? In the afternoon, we took a small ferry across to Koh Trong Island, not far, but a world apart. No cars, just bicycles, fruit orchards, palm-lined dirt paths, and floating houses. We cycled slowly, met local families, and enjoyed fresh fruit picked right from the trees.

At sunset, we returned to Kratie just in time to catch the last light over the Mekong. We strolled along the riverside promenade, tasted a few dishes at the night market, and ended the day with a simple yet heartwarming dinner by the water. Locals were gathered nearby, laughing and chatting. And in that moment, we felt like we truly belonged. We stayed overnight in a cozy homestay in Kratie, the perfect place to recharge after another rewarding day on the road.

Kratie may be the most laid-back stop on our Cambodia motorbike trip, but it’s also one of the most unforgettable, because everything here feels real.

Day 6: From Kratie to Kampong Cham by Motorbike (Approx. 180 km)

On the sixth day of our Cambodia road trip, we continued our journey along the Mekong River, heading toward Kampong Cham. The road kept changing, sometimes dirt tracks, sometimes narrow paths winding through rice fields, and small villages where time seemed to stand still. We also hit a few off-road sections that made the ride more dynamic, sometimes even a bit sporty!

When we arrived in Kampong Cham, we were pleasantly surprised. The town felt calm and traditional, nothing like the buzz of Cambodia’s bigger cities. We saw well-preserved colonial houses alongside Khmer and Chinese influences. Most locals here live from fishing and agriculture, and you can feel that right away in the town’s peaceful vibe.

What to do in Cambodia? One of the highlights in Kampong Cham was definitely the famous bamboo bridge to Koh Paen Island. We had seen photos before, but crossing it on a motorbike was a whole different experience. Entirely built from bamboo and reconstructed every year, the bridge is both simple and impressive. Even though there’s now a concrete bridge nearby, the bamboo one remains, for visitors, and for the charm it brings.

Once on the island, we took our time. We strolled through quiet villages, visited a few ancient temples, and stopped at the local beach for lunch. The food was basic Khmer cuisine, but fresh, flavorful, and served with a smile.

Before ending the day, we visited Wat Nokor, a must-see on any Cambodia itinerary 7 days. This temple stands out, built with dark stone instead of the red bricks or sandstone we’d seen at other Khmer sites. The walls are covered with intricate carvings depicting Buddhist tales. We stayed for a while, quietly soaking in the atmosphere.

We wrapped up the day with a casual dinner at a small local restaurant, nothing fancy, but very tasty. Then, we checked into a guesthouse in the center of Kampong Cham. It was warm, simple, and just what we needed to recharge before the final day of our Cambodia travel itinerary 1 week.

Day 7: Return to Siem Reap by Motorbike

The final day of our 7-day Cambodia motorbike itinerary took us back to Siem Reap, this time at a slower pace. We left later than usual that morning—maybe we were tired, but more likely it was that bittersweet feeling creeping in, knowing the journey was coming to an end.

The ride was calm, almost silent. We cruised through quiet countryside roads and made a few spontaneous stops - a local market here, a small pagoda half-hidden along the roadside. Nothing was planned, nothing extraordinary, but each stop carried that subtle feeling of a “last time.” We were trying to soak in those final moments of Cambodia trip’s simple, genuine rural charm.

By late afternoon, the familiar streets of Siem Reap came back into view, the same ones we had left just a week ago. And that’s when it hit us: the circle was complete. In just seven days, something inside us had shifted. Not loudly, but deeply.

That evening, over our final meal in Siem Reap, we replayed the journey in our minds - the rough roads, the jolts, the adrenaline, the quiet sunsets… but most of all, the countless smiling faces we’d encountered along the way.

What to do in Cambodia? We thought we were just going on a Cambodia motorbike trip, but it turned out to be much more than that. What we brought home couldn’t fit into a backpack: vivid memories, honest emotions, and moments that would stay with us long after the trip ended. The Cambodia we experienced was one of dusty roads, genuine encounters, and simple smiles. And that’s the Cambodia we’ll carry with us, always.

II. Off-Road Motorbike Rental Experience in Siem Reap for a Cambodia Road Trip

If you’re planning a Cambodia road trip, especially a Cambodia one week itinerary, choosing the right motorbike rental service in Siem Reap is a crucial step. While the city offers many rental options, not all of them provide bikes sturdy enough to handle rough trails and remote regions.

We went with The Road Riders Cambodia, a shop highly recommended by many travelers on Google Maps. Our own experience renting two off-road motorbikes for our Cambodia trip was excellent: the bikes were in top condition, prices were fair, and most importantly, the owner was incredibly friendly and spoke fluent English and French.

If you dream of riding through Cambodia’s remote landscapes with endless scenic views, this is the place to rent your two-wheeler.

III. Useful tips for a successful Cambodia motorbike trip

A Cambodia road trip is a fantastic way to get off the beaten path, dive into local culture, and explore wild, untouched nature. But to make the most of the experience, a few essential precautions are key:

1. Keep your documents in order

Before hitting the road, make sure you have everything on hand: your passport, International Driving Permit (IDP) and your motorbike rental agreement. These documents may be requested at checkpoints along the way. It's best not to forget them at the bottom of your bag.

2. Thoroughly check the motorbike before departure

Before starting your 7-day Cambodia motorbike itinerary, we took time to check everything: brakes, tires, headlights, horn, even the chain tension. Don’t skip this step. If something feels off, don’t hesitate to ask for a different bike. It’s better to be safe than stuck in the middle of nowhere.

3. Bring the right protective gear

A quality helmet, gloves, closed shoes, a sturdy jacket, it might sound like overkill when it’s 30–35°C, but it truly makes a difference on off-road tracks. We also carried a few basic tools in our bag, just in case. They don’t take up much space but can save the day when needed.

4. Carry enough cash

Once you're away from the cities, don’t count on ATMs or card payments. For fuel, meals, accommodation, or even a bottle of water on the roadside, cash is king. We always kept a reserve with us, enough to last through our Cambodia one week itinerary without stress.

5. Plan your route in advance

Map out your route ahead of time, considering distances, road conditions (asphalt or dirt), and tips from fellow riders. Good preparation helps avoid unpleasant surprises along the way.

6. Refuel whenever possible and choose stops wisely

Whenever we passed a gas station, we stopped to top up. In remote areas, they’re rare, so don’t take chances. We also avoided riding after dark. As for accommodation, it’s best to book ahead when possible, or aim for larger villages with more options and better safety.

7. Respect local communities

When passing through a village, we always slowed down, not just to avoid potholes or kids playing, but out of respect. We also paid attention to how we dressed, and if we wanted to take photos, we asked first. These simple, sincere gestures made all the difference: the encounters became warmer, the exchanges more genuine.

Our 7-day Cambodia motorbike itinerary, from Siem Reap to Kratie, through wild trails and remote villages, was a real adventure. Intense. Full of discoveries, emotions, and surprises. Wondering what to do in Cambodia? Honestly, try a Cambodia road trip. You set your own pace, breathe in the open air, stop whenever you want, and most importantly, you experience human connections that no classic tour can offer. It’s a powerful experience, packed with freedom and adrenaline. And if you want to embrace the adventure without the stress, get in touch with AUTOUR ASIA, a local travel agency in Cambodia. They can offer expert advice or even plan tailor-made Cambodia tours so you can live this journey your own way.