Cambodia’s “Mud Buggy” Thrill Ride: Speed Through the Countryside and Feast on Scenic Views

Reported and photographed by Chen Hanyin / Cambodia

As one of the world’s cultural heritage sites, Cambodia’s Angkor Wat features over 900-year-old stone temples and majestic palace ruins that have captivated travelers from around the globe, drawing them all to the small city of Siem Reap. But beyond exploring ancient ruins, what else can you do at Angkor Wat? Travel back in time over a thousand years to the rural outskirts of Siem Reap in 2017, hop on an ATV mud buggy, venture deep into the fields, experience local rural life, and enjoy a unique view of Cambodia along the way.

▲A different way to experience Cambodia: cruise through the countryside on a buggy and take in the scenery.

▲ATV buggies with four-wheel drive can tackle mountains and valleys.

An ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle), commonly referred to as a beach buggy in Taiwan, was originally marketed by beach operators as the ultimate thrill ride. But in reality, it's not limited to sandy shores — it can also power through mud, sand, grasslands, and other rugged terrains that are tough to traverse on foot. ATV riding is hugely popular in Europe and America, and has become a must-do experience for Western visitors to Cambodia. Zooming across Cambodian farmland, with the wind tousling your hair and dust dirtying your clothes, this carefree spirit captures the essence of true off-road adventure.

▲Masks are provided to help with the dusty, muddy conditions.

Those with no biking or driving experience might initially be intimidated by the bulky four-wheeled vehicles and roaring engines. But once you take that first step, you’ll quickly be swept away by the thrill of unrestricted speed. Instructors will first guide you through a short trial ride to ensure you're comfortable before hitting the trail. The one-hour journey is accompanied by 3–4 instructors on motorbikes who lead the route, manage traffic, and ensure your safety throughout.

▲Instructors provide one-on-one coaching until you’re ready to ride on your own.

▲Choose from a variety of cool colors to suit your style.

Leaving behind the tourist crowds at the heritage site, the rural outskirts of Siem Reap offer no bustling tourist throngs or souvenir vendors — just simple locals and wildlife. As you drive from the city into country lanes, pastoral scenes unfold: fields, ponds, rice paddies. By the water, people gather to fish; ducks march single file across the road. It’s an idyllic and heartwarming sight.

▲A mother duck hurriedly leads her ducklings into the pond.

▲The simple beauty of Cambodia’s countryside and local way of life.

Every turn brings a fresh memory of Cambodia’s rural landscapes. As the mud buggies roar past, their booming engines catch the attention of villagers — adults look up, children peer out, and wide, curious eyes smile and wave enthusiastically. These joyful, contented faces are among the most beautiful sights in Cambodia.

▲A cute little bicycle casually parked by the roadside, with a freshly cut straw stuck in it.

▲Children wave cheerfully at the passing convoy.

《Siem Reap Quad Bike Adventure ATV Tours》
Price: $35 USD for adults, $25 USD for children; $40 USD for one adult + one child (16 years and above can drive solo)
Address: 169, Wat Damnak Village, Sala Kamroeuk Communce, Siem Reap, Cambodia

＊Cambodia Angkor Air operates a direct flight to Angkor Wat every Saturday (3.5 hours). For details, please contact Coolidge Travel.