The Happy Ranch Horse Farm — Attraction in Siem Reap

My friends and I thought that horseback would be a great way to see the Cambodian countryside. We were not wrong. Our two hour sunset ride took us through a local village, where we saw everyday Cambodians going about their daily activities. We also walked through rice fields and saw buffalo and farmers tending to the crop. It really felt like we were experiencing the true Cambodia.

What let the experience down was the crazy horses and lack of direction. Despite ticking the 'Beginner' box on the waiver, no attention was paid to this. Luckily I had been on a horse before and new the basics, because there was absolutely no direction as to how to ride a horse from the staff. You got on and you were off!

For the most part, the horses follow one another in a line. But occasionally start running or randomly stopping to eat things. The horses either walked or galloped - there was no in-between. Very scary for new riders. At one point my horse bolted, when we were only meant to be trotting, and would not stop no matter how hard I pulled back. The guide only laughed and said "Your horse likes to jump!". The horses would also fight if they got too close to one another. I got a hoof to the toes, as another horse attempted...

I had read recent reviews and wasn't entirely sure what to expect but I had a really positive experience! I sent a whatsapp message at 7.30am asking if they had availability for a 2hr trail ride the same morning. Their response was fast and I booked a ride for 9am. I arrived and everything went smoothly. I didn't realise that I would be the only person on the trail ride considering I did not pay an extra fee for a private ride. I really enjoyed the ride as a way to see more of Siem Reap outside of the main touristy areas. I observed how the horses were being treated and cared for before I began the ride (and paid) and the horses are well cared for and the ride put the horses' well being as a priority, with a 5-10 min break to be expected in the middle of your trail ride to give the horses a short rest. They also do not overwork the horses, with each horse either working a maximum of 3hrs a day (ie in a single trail ride) or doing 2 x 1 or 2 hr trail rides - one in the morning and one in the evening. I also felt totally safe doing this as a solo female traveller. Really enjoyed the experience and how ethical the...

Actually I’m a bit hesitant to give a 4 or 5 stars for the horse farm, however, they do seem like they will get things standard and easy for customers to get a tour at some point. None of the local tour operators have information on them, I had my hotel call them and scheduled a ride, and they advised come anytime during opening hours, but when I arrived the horses were all at lunch and was not able to take a ride, a bit of information we could have used when we called. They did give me access to walk around and look at the stables and grounds. The front area off the Main Street is beautiful with many statues and flowers. The horses look normal size, however, they have a weight limit of 180 pounds (81 kilos) per passenger on the horse. I believe this Farm is privately owned and operated and kinda needs set schedule rather then tell people to come any time during operating hours. 3 ⭐️ for my experience, however, I strongly feel they have potential to do better and become a definite stop when in siem Reap. The Farm is Extremely close to the...