I cycled so often in and around Kao Sok nature reserves that the posted wardens who charged visitors, let me in for free. Good choice of decent road...
If it’s just the two of you, take a look at van hire as a possible alternative? Vans these days are usually well specced, so you don’t lose too much...
What’s up SoCal? Did none of that money filter down to you? Or maybe you are just disappointed that you could not afford coach class tickets to PI or...