Remote & Adventure
For travellers who want to go further
The temples around Siem Reap are just the beginning. Cambodia has some of the most dramatic and least visited archaeological sites in all of Southeast Asia — plus outdoor adventures that will get the adrenaline going. These tours take you further from the city, deeper into the jungle, and off the beaten path entirely.
All remote tours require a car rather than a tuk tuk. We use our trusted Babel taxi drivers for all long-distance trips so you travel comfortably and safely.
Book at reception or by email — advance booking recommended for all tours on this page.
Koh Ker: The Pyramid of the Jungle
Located about 120km from Siem Reap (approximately 2.5 hours by car), Koh Ker was once the capital of the Khmer Empire for a brief but fascinating period in the 10th century. It feels nothing like Angkor — the style is completely different, the crowds are minimal, and the atmosphere is wild and remote.
The centrepiece is Prasat Thom — a 7-tier sandstone pyramid standing 36 metres high, rising dramatically out of the jungle. You can climb to the top for sweeping views over the forest canopy.
Also worth seeing:
Prasat Pram — the "Fairytale Temple" — five towers completely wrapped in giant tree roots. One of the most photogenic spots in all of Cambodia.
Prasat Damrei — guarded by large stone elephant sculptures at the entrance.
Prices:
Koh Ker only: $100 per car
Koh Ker + Beng Mealea: $110 per car
Car holds up to 4 adults comfortably.
Sambor Prei Kuk: The Forest Temples
One of our personal absolute favourites — and one of the most underrated archaeological sites in Southeast Asia.
Sambor Prei Kuk predates Angkor Wat by several centuries, making it one of the oldest temple complexes in Cambodia. Hidden deep in the jungle of Kampong Thom province, these temples are visited by almost nobody — giving you a rare feeling of genuine discovery.
The temples are famous for their unique octagonal brick towers standing quietly among the trees, slowly being reclaimed by the jungle. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2017.
If you have already seen Angkor and want something completely different — this is it.
$120 per car (up to 4 adults)
Full day trip — depart early for the best experience
Book at least 1 day in advance at reception
Insider Tip: Consider spending a night or two in Kampong Thom at our friends' wonderful hotel — Sambor Village. A truly special place that shares everything we believe in at Babel — solar panels, no plastic, and the same commitment to responsible, ethical tourism. Absolutely worth the detour, or a stop on the way to Phnom Penh!
Phnom Kulen: The Sacred Mountain
The holy mountain where the Age of Angkor began over 1,200 years ago. Phnom Kulen is a mix of ancient history, living religion, and beautiful nature — and one of the places where local Cambodian families come to relax and picnic on their days off. A very different energy from the main temples.
What to see:
The Waterfall — a beautiful cascade where you can swim in the natural pools. A favourite with local families.
The River of 1,000 Lingas — ancient Hindu carvings visible beneath the clear flowing water. Extraordinary and unlike anything else in Cambodia.
Preah Ang Thom — a massive reclining Buddha carved directly into a giant boulder at the mountain's summit. A deeply sacred site.
Swimming at the waterfall: Phnom Kulen is a sacred site and a family destination. Please swim the local way — a t-shirt and shorts rather than a bikini or swimwear. Changing huts are available on site. Bring a towel. It is a small gesture of respect that goes a long way.
Prices:
Car (up to 4 people): $65
Minivan (up to 12 people): $70
Entry ticket: $20 per person (paid at the mountain gate)
Important: One-way traffic rules apply on the mountain road — cars go up before 11am and down after 12pm. Leave Babel early.
Note: We do not use tuk tuks for this trip — the road is steep and rocky.
Angkor Zipline
Eco-Adventure in the Canopy
The only zipline canopy tour in Cambodia — located inside the UNESCO-protected Angkor Park itself. Multiple ziplines and sky bridges take you high above the jungle canopy, with views over the ancient temple complex below.
Built and operated by experienced professionals with over 20 years of zipline expertise. Safety is taken extremely seriously — full briefing and equipment provided before you start.
Good to know:
No Angkor Pass required
Children over 100cm can join (with an adult)
Closed-toe shoes required — no flip flops
Gold and Silver packages available starting at $55 per person
Come to reception and we will show you the options, check availability, and book the best time slot for you.
Why we love it: A completely different way to experience the Angkor area — and a genuine adrenaline rush. Perfect for families with older children or anyone who wants something active and memorable.
Quad Bike Tours
Hop on a quad bike and get off the tourist trail!
Once you have had a quick safety briefing and a practice run, your guide leads you out into the real Cambodian countryside — bumpy dirt tracks, rice fields, friendly villages, and open skies. You will see parts of Siem Reap that most visitors never find. Safe, fun, and genuinely memorable.
Our most popular option: Two people sharing one 400cc quad on the afternoon sunset tour — riding out through the rice fields as the sun goes down. Absolutely worth it.
Options:
1 hour: $30 per person
1.5 hours: $45 per person
2 hours: $60 per person
3 hours: $80 per person
4 hours: $100 per person
Solo quads and 2-person 400cc quads available. Morning and afternoon departures. Pickup from Babel included. Suitable for complete beginners.
Book at reception — we will sort everything for you.
Our Commitment to Fair Tourism
When you book a tour with us, you are supporting local families directly. We set our prices together with our drivers and local staff to ensure they earn a proper living wage.
We kindly ask you to respect these prices — they are essential to the quality and ethics of our service.
Ready to book? Come and talk to us at reception when you arrive. We are happy to help you plan the perfect adventure.
Need more help? Send me an email! Babelsiemreap@gmail.com