After a few days among ancient stones, a zip line through the forest canopy is a welcome change of pace. The Angkor zip line course runs through the tall trees beside the Angkor Archaeological Park, using a series of cables, platforms and walkways strung between giant trees. You clip into a harness, listen to a safety briefing and then launch yourself across the treetops, with long runs over the forest floor and short ones that are almost playful. Guides travel with the group, check each connection and call out instructions, so first-timers feel at ease as well as thrilled. The course is built to leave the forest intact, with platforms fixed around the trees and no clearing, and the experience is as much about being up in the canopy, hearing the birds and gibbon-style calls from the leaves, as about the speed. It is a good option for families with older children, for groups of friends and for anyone who wants an active half-day in the green rather than another round of temples.
How to visit
The course is a short transfer from Siem Reap, and the tour picks you up from your hotel, takes you to the base, fits your harness and helmet and gives a briefing on the technique. The route then takes you platform by platform across the course, with guides at both ends of each line.
Most visits take about two to three hours, and some packages combine the course with a bike ride or other activity. Check the exact programme, minimum age, height and weight limits and the pick-up details when you book, as they differ between operators.
What to expect
You will climb ladders and stairs, cross swaying bridges and make a series of zip-line runs of different lengths. The experience is physical but not extreme, and you do not need to be an athlete, although you should be comfortable with heights. The forest around the course is a pocket of tall trees and birdsong, cooler than the open temple sites, and the lines give you views over the canopy that you cannot get on the ground.
It is also a good place to stay out of the midday sun, since the shade is welcome in the hot months.
Making the most of it
Wear closed, sturdy shoes, comfortable clothes that you can move in and a hat or cap you can secure. Leave loose items, jewellery and phones in the lockers, or use a secure strap for a small camera if the operator allows it. Eat lightly beforehand, drink water and use insect repellent. The course works well at any time of year, though a morning or late-afternoon slot is more comfortable in the hot season, and heavy rain may cause cancellations for safety.
If you have a fear of heights, tell the guides in advance, as they can adjust the pace and stay closer. Combine the zip line with a quiet temple the same day to balance adventure and culture, and book ahead in the busy months from November to February.
If the course is not for you, a spectator or a non-riding companion can often wait at the base, and the operator can usually suggest a gentler alternative such as a forest walk. Always listen carefully to the safety briefing, even if you have zip-lined before.
What to expect
The experience
A hotel pick-up, a safety briefing and harness fitting, then a guided course of zip lines, platforms and bridges in the forest canopy.
Best time
Morning or late afternoon for cooler air; the forest shade helps in the hot season.
How long
About two to three hours on the course, plus transfers.
Tips
Wear closed shoes and comfortable clothes, secure loose items, tell the guides if you dislike heights and check the age, height and weight limits.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Thrill-seekers, active families with older children and groups who want a break from temples.
- Families
- A good option for families with older children and teenagers; there are minimum age and weight limits.
- Couples
- A shared adrenaline hit followed by a relaxed dinner in town.
- Pair with
- A quiet temple such as Ta Prohm in the morning and the zip line in the afternoon, or the quad bike ride for an adventure day.
- Time needed
- Half a day including the transfer.
Good questions
Is the zip line suitable for beginners?+
Yes. Guides give a full briefing, check every connection and stay with the group, and the course builds up from shorter runs to longer ones. You should be comfortable with heights.
What are the age and weight limits?+
Operators set minimum ages and weight limits for safety, and they differ between programmes. Check the operator before you go.
Is the course inside the Angkor Archaeological Park?+
It is set in the forest beside the Angkor park, so you do not need an Angkor Pass for it. Check the meeting point when you book.
What happens if it rains?+
Operators may pause or cancel the course in heavy rain or storms for safety. Check the cancellation and rescheduling terms when you book.
What should I bring?+
Bring closed shoes, comfortable clothing, a hat, insect repellent and water. Leave valuables at your hotel or in the lockers provided.
