trip
NEW Trip – Ladakh Mountain Biking AdventureView Trip Details

14 Days$2990USD

Activities
  • 8 day cycle
Accommodation
  • 8 nights hotel
  • 3 nights traditional guesthouse
  • 1 night traditional boat
  • 1 night train
Meals
  • 6 Dinners
  • 9 Lunches
  • 13 Breakfasts
5
Moderate

Traveller Rating

 

 
 

Trip highlights


  • Historic monuments & the colourful Old Quarter in Hanoi
  • Stunning rice terraces & quiet country lanes in Pu Luong Nature Reserve
  • Emerald waters and limestone islands of majestic Ha Long Bay
  • Imperial history on the banks of the Perfume River in Hue
  • Ancient architecture and laid-back atmosphere in Hoi An
  • Bustling streets and markets in Ho Chi Minh City
  • Eye-opening wartime history at the Cu Chi tunnels
  • Explore the Mekong Delta
  • Support vehicle throughout with spares and seats for tired riders

Without a doubt cycling is one of the finest ways to discover a country where hospitality comes as second nature. Our complete service includes comfortable geared bikes, a support crew and backup vehicle, and nights spent in well appointed and reliable hotels. This journey will offer a true insight into the local cuisine and friendly culture that will be sure to delight. Leaving Hanoi, where better than spectacular North Vietnam mountains and Halong Bay to start this amazing adventure, before heading south to Hue. Pedalling at a steady pace we explore an ever-changing landscape of tranquil highlands, palm fringed beaches and country roads that lead through mango and coconut groves. Stopping at wayside tea stalls, the villagers' curiosity often translates into invitations to visit their homes. We also savour the bustling, cosmopolitan café culture of Ho Chi Minh City on this unforgettable adventure.

Trip Code: VBR

If you’re flying into Hanoi today you will be met by your driver outside Gate A1 as you exit the arrivals hall. Please look for the WORLD EXPEDITIONS welcome sign. If you cannot find the sign, please call the emergency number provided. You will have time to relax at your hotel and adjust to the pace of Hanoi. The capital of Vietnam is one of Asia’s most enchanting cities, full of culture, history and the engaging contradictions of a rapidly developing and deeply traditional society. In the late afternoon we will have a group meeting being held in the hotel foyer (time indicated in your final documents). Generally groups of 6 or more people will have one guide accompanying them throughout the journey, while smaller groups will have local guides in each region. Afterwards, we head out on a nice stroll passing by the Ly Thai To square (the founder of Hanoi) and along the Hoan Kiem Lake to the vibrant old quarter. We have a welcome dinner at a local restaurant and dine on several iconic dishes of North Vietnam, before returning to the hotel. Overnight: Hong Ha Hotel or similar

Meals:  D

After an early breakfast, we head to the bike depot where we will be equipped to start our ride. We then transfer to the mountainous region of Hoa Binh, which is the province of the Muong ethnic people. We reach the shores of the beautiful Da River reservoir surrounded by towering jungle covered mountains. Sit back and enjoy the stunning scenery as the crossing takes around an hour. We disembark and enjoy a lunch at a local restaurant before getting ready to start cycling towards Mai Hich. From the pier, we start with a fairly steep 4km ride uphill to exit the foothills of the reservoir and get back on the road. We continue for another 20km along flat roads before reaching the Mai Chau mountainous region. Enter the territory of the White Thai, a large valley carpeted in rice fields, hamlets of stilted houses and surrounded by limestone mountains. We cycle to a traditional guesthouse on stilts in Mai Hich for overnight and dinner. Cycling: 40km / sealed road / +640m; -660m Driving: 90km / 2hrs Overnight: Mai Hich traditional stilt guesthouse (multishare)

Meals:  B,L,D

After breakfast, we cycle towards the Laos border before veering off to the east to enter the Pu Luong Nature Reserve. The sceneries change, the road tracks the mountainside with overviews down deep and tight valleys of terraced rice fields. The changes in elevation are insignificant for the initial 15km before we start a 15km ascent to then ride mostly downhill and on flat roads to our guesthouse. Two cascading streams flow with their natural pools nearby; this is the perfect spot to end the day with a refreshing swim. Cycling: 60km / sealed road / 35km flat; 15km uphill; 10km downhill / +865m; -807m Overnight: Pu Luong traditional stilt guesthouse (multishare)

Meals:  B,L,D

We commence with a 10km ride to Pho Doan village, and take a hidden route that very few know about to the historical Ho Chi Minh road. This stretch is scenic with friendly local people. After lunch, we will load the bikes and hop on the bus to transfer to our beautiful resort at the doorstep of Van Long Nature Reserve. Check-in to the room before gathering at the pier nearby to enjoy a traditional sampan ride on the waters of the largest wetland reserve in the country. This area is famous for the abundance of waterfowl. Cycling: 70km / sealed road / +403m; -527m Driving: 60km Accommodation: Emeralda Resort or similar

Meals:  B,L,D

After 3 days riding across some of the most beautiful landscapes of Northern Vietnam, we take a break from riding and indulge in two days of rest. Early breakfast for an early departure to Ha Long Bay. We drive across the Red River delta and reach the coast little before noon where we embark on a beautifully crafted wooden junk for a 1 night cruise in the legendary turquoise seascape of Ha Long Bay. Once aboard, we are served a delicious seafood buffet lunch as we cruise between the soaring limestone karsts. In the afternoon we reach a less traveled area and will devote ourselves to relaxation, sunbathing and visiting of a cave if you wish. The program is not fixed and depends on the time of the year and weather. We end the day with sundowners and will hopefully be treated to a spectacular sunset. It is time for an aperitif or to attend a cooking demonstration before dinner. Driving: 190km Cycling: N/A Overnight: Bhaya Classic Cruise or similar

Meals:  B,L,D

Rise early to catch the sunrise and enjoy a Tai Chi session on deck or just relax with a tea or coffee. We have the chance to visit another cave before making our way back to land. While cruising back to the pier brunch is served on deck for your last opportunity to take in the amazing scenery. Upon disembarkation we drive to Hanoi, where we enjoy a brief sightseeing tour of Hanoi’s major landmarks including the gardens of the Presidential Palace within the Ho Chi Minh complex and the Temple of literature. After dinner, we will head to the train station. The night train has long been a staple in long distance travel in Vietnam and to visit without experiencing this as the locals do is definitely missing out. After trundling through the Tam Diep Mountain range of the north we pass through the Annamite range of central Vietnam before reaching our destination, Hue. Driving: 150km Cycling: N/A Overnight: Soft sleeper 4-berth cabin with A/C

Meals:  B

The train arrives at about 9am. Hue is a cradle of culture and the last imperial capital of Vietnam. This morning we visit the major landmark of Hue’s heritage, the Imperial Citadel. It offers us an interesting insight into Hue’s recent feudality and helps us to understand the changes which occurred in just a few decades in Vietnam. After lunch we hop back on our bikes to cycle around 45km on flat roads. We head northeast on the impressive “road of the tombs” to the shore of the Tam Giang Lagoon. Here we hop on a local boat and journey across the lagoon, the longest of the country at 70km from north to south, and learn about the ancestral fishing techniques of the locals. Once we bid farewell to our boatman and ride south along the barrier beach road to Phu Thuan and a lovely boutique resort located on the beach. Check-in then enjoy the remainder of the day relaxing. Choose from the sea or the swimming pool for a refreshing dip. Cycling: 50km / sealed road / mostly flat Overnight: Lapochine Resort or similar

Meals:  B,L

Enjoy a breakfast by the beach to start the day in the best possible way. Then get ready for our 80km ride today. This is easy going, mostly flat with some small climbs toward the end. The whole day takes us along the lagoon and its different pools. We follow a small road with very little traffic, bordered in some stretches by pine forest. We reach the buffer zone of Bach Ma National Park and then ride along the Chan May and Lang Co Bays to reach a resort right at the foot of the famous Hai Van Pass. Drop the bikes and relax on the beach or by the swimming pool. Cycling: 80km / sealed road / 70km flat Overnight: Lang Co Beach Resort or similar

Meals:  B,L

Today will be the day we remember for having conquered the legendary Hai Van Pass. This massive coastal mountain serves as the major climatic barrier in Vietnam. 11 kilometres up and 11 kilometres down on “one of the best coastal roads in the world” as described by Jeremy Clarkson from the television show Top Gear. We will celebrate our conquering of this mountain by enjoying ice creams on the summit before enjoying the descent all the way down to to Da Nang, the fastest growing city in Vietnam. From Da Nang, we have a further 30km to ride before reaching the beautiful ancient port town of Hoi An. Check-in and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure in this atmospheric riverside town. Cycling: 65km / sealed road / 43km flat; 11km uphill; 11km downhill / +500m; -505m Overnight: Vinh Hung Emerald Resort or similar

Meals:  B,L

Following yesterday's conquest, enjoy a whole day at leisure in this picturesque town. Wander its ancient alleys of the famous Old Quarter or venture down to the beach just 4km away. Meet with the guide at 15.00 in the hotel lobby for a late afternoon cycling tour (using simple local bicycles) to the Hoi An countryside and sunset river cruise back to the hotel. Cycling/cruise: ~ 3 hours from 15.00 to 18.00 Overnight: Vinh Hung Emerald Resort or similar

Meals:  B

This morning we transfer by car to Da Nang Airport for our flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival in Ho Chi Minh, we drive to the hotel. Ho Chi Minh City, also known by its former name, Saigon is the largest city in the Vietnam. Modern with a huge density of people and some truly crazy traffic which follows its own rules. This city is not the place for cycling and so in the afternoon we will walk, a gentle stroll around the city centre to unveil some very well preserved colonial buildings that give the city an interesting contrasting atmosphere. Driving: N/A Cycling: N/A Overnight: Emm Hotel or similar

Meals:  B

This morning we transfer by bus to Hoc Mon Town. From here we commence our 20km ride through rubber plantations and rice fields to the historic Cu Chi Tunnels. The Cu Chi Tunnels were of significant importance to the Viet Cong forces during the Vietnam/ American war. Visiting the tunnels we learn about the history of the site and also have the opportunity to explore some of the expansive underground system ourselves. Enjoy lunch at local restaurant before hopping back on the bus and transferring to Cai Be in the heart of the Mekong Delta (~3hr drive). In the late afternoon, we get back on our bikes and end the day with a leisurely 10 km ride along the narrow lanes of An Binh Island to our local guesthouse. Soak up the quaintness of the delta at the best time of the day, when the glimmering orange lights of sunset beautify the nature all around. Cycling: 30km / sealed road / 30km flat Driving: 160km Accommodation: An Binh Island local guesthouse

Meals:  B,L,D

Our morning starts with a boat trip around Cai Be, witnessing the merchants coming on their sampans loaded with local produce to trade. We then start cycling on the lesser known roads and pathways of the region. Each stop will be an opportunity for your tour leader to explain more about the local culture and daily life of the Delta. Remembering the first days in the Northern mountains, it will feel like a totally different country. In the afternoon, we complete the ride, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before hopping on our bus to transfer the last 50 kilometres to our hotel in Ho Chi Minh City. In the early evening, meet the guide for a short walk to Ly Tu Trong street, where we will visit the taproom of some the craft beer pioneers in Vietnam. Enjoy a tasting of beers and bid farewell to your guide. Cycling: 50km / mostly flat Driving: 80km Accommodation: Emm Hotel or similar

Meals:  B,L

The day is free at your leisure until transfer to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for your departure flight. We wish you a pleasant onward journey. End of services.

Meals:  B


Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.


Inclusions

  • 13 breakfasts, 10 lunches and 6 dinners
  • 8 nights comfortable hotel on a twinshare basis, and 1 night on a traditional junk boat on a twinshare basis
  • 3 nights traditional guesthouse on multishare basis, and 1 night on comfortable train in a 4 berth sleeper carriage
  • English speaking guide - Generally groups of 6 or more people will have one guide accompanying them throughout the journey, while smaller groups will have local guides in each region.
  • Airport transfers (on first day and last day of the trip)
  • All transport throughout including train sector on the Reunification Express
  • Internal flight from Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh City valued at US$95
  • Private air conditioned vehicles
  • Modern mountain bikes on cycling days
  • Support vehicle with spare parts and bike mechanic on cycling days
  • Group medical kit
  • Sightseeing and entry fees as listed in the itinerary

  • International airfares
  • Visa fees
  • Travel Insurance (compulsory)
  • Bike Helmet (compulsory)
  • Meals and beverages not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Items of a personal nature such as laundry, phone calls, alcohol etc
  • Tips and gratuities

Accommodation


Bike information


Departure dates


Notes

HS
Holiday Season
P
Vietnam By Bike - Peak Season Surcharge Xmas/NewYear

Dates don't fit?
Create a Private Trip

If you have your own group, talk to us about turning this itinerary into your own private adventure.

Priceper person from

$2990USD

Your trip price includes:

  • Internal flight valued at USD$95
  • Equipment hire valued at USD$120
Options & Supplements*
  • Vietnam By Bike E-Bike Upgrade (Days 2/3/4 only)USD$60
  • Vietnam By Bike Single SupplementUSD$590
*Prices listed are per person

Essential Information

Ready to book? Make sure you download and read the detailed Vietnam by Bike trip notes which contains all the essential information you need to know before booking. Once you’ve booked, we will supply you with a Pre-Departure document which contains a detailed gear list and other important information to help you prepare for your adventure ahead.


Trip reviews


Other trip reviews


Why travel with us

Award Winning Adventures

Enhancing your journey with authentic experiences, genuine cultural exchange and real exploration are the focal points on all of our adventures. In 2019, we were crowned by our peers as the best in adventure travel at The Travel Awards in Sydney.

Thoughtful Travel

Our vision is to leave the world a better place by following our sustainable active outdoor travel charter. All our adventures are 100% carbon offset and our Regenerative 2030 Project aims to integrate ‘regenerative’ projects into every one of our global operations by 2030.

Ultimate Value

 When you book one of our adventures, you will receive quality services at the best prices with plenty of inclusions. There are no hidden costs, single travellers don’t pay more and you’ll enjoy many ‘extra touches’ that ensure your holiday is excellent value for money.

Videos

Vietnam By Bike: What's it like to cycle in Vietnam | World Expeditions

Similar trips

Join Newsletter
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/ADS.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Adventures South"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Adventure South</div>
Adventure South NZ is unrivalled in their geographic coverage, originality and overall quality of adventures holidays in New Zealand. Choose from walking, cycling, winter or multi-activity holidays, on either the North or South Island.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/AWH.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Australian Walking Holidays"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Australian Walking Holidays</div>
Australian Walking Holidays specialises in small group guided walking adventures. Since 1982 we have been guiding small groups of travellers on Australia's finest walks across our tropical, coastal or red centre landscapes.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/GCT.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Great Canadian Trails"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Great Canadian Trails</div>
Great Canadian Trails specialises in active holidays in Canada. With both guided and supported self-guided options available, our unique itineraries draw upon some of Canada's most inspiring parks, trails and landscapes from coast to coast.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/HUM.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Humac Challenge"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Huma Charity Challenge</div>
Huma enables those with adventurous spirits to challenge themselves and make a difference for a cause close to their heart. Travel, fundraise and meet life-long friends on one of Huma's meaningful and unique challenges around the world.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WB.jpg?v2' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Walkers’ Britain"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Walkers' Britain</div>
Walkers' Britain (formerly Sherpa Expeditions) have specialised in walking and cycling trips in the United Kingdom and Europe since 1973. Explore iconic trails and destinations on a self guided or small group active holiday with Walkers' Britain.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WB.jpg?v2' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Walkers’ Britain"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Walkers' Britain</div>
Walkers' Britain (formerly Sherpa Expeditions) have specialised in walking and cycling trips in the United Kingdom and Europe since 1973. Explore iconic trails and destinations on a self guided or small group active holiday with Walkers' Britain.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/TAS.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Tasmania Expeditions"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Tasmanian Expeditions</div>
Tasmanian Expeditions is the most experienced operator of treks and adventure travel holidays in Tasmania. We own and operate the most comprehensive range of adventure holidays available across Tasmania's varied landscapes.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/UTX-new.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Utracks"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>UTracks</div>
UTracks are the active European holiday specialists. Whether you prefer cycling or walking, 2-star or 4-star, small groups or self guided, land, river or sea – UTracks can help you to explore Europe exactly the way you want.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WYA.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="World Expeditions Schools"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>World Expeditions Schools</div>
World Expeditions Schools is our specialist division dedicated to organising tailor made overseas school group adventures. Specialists in Service Learning projects, choose from more destinations than any other school group provider.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/YOM.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Yomads"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Yomads</div>
Yomads offers adventures for the 20s and 30s on six continents. Designed as a way to bring young and likeminded travellers together, Yomads caters to those interested in lightly structured and active trips that allow freedom to roam and explore.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/ACT.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Australian Cycle Tours"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Australian Cycle Tours</div>
Australian Cycle Tours specialises in high quality self guided and guided cycling experiences in a selection of the most beautiful regions in Australia.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WEX.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="World Expeditions"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>World Expeditions</div>
The pioneers of original, worldwide adventure travel holidays since 1975
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/TJX.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Trail Journeys"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Trail Journeys</div>
Self-guided cycling experts on New Zealand's Otago Rail Trail and more
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/BMAC.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Blue Mountains Adventure Company"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Blue Mountains Adventure Company</div>
The original Blue Mountains canyoning, hiking, climbing and abseiling experts
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/GWNZ.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Great Walks of New Zealand"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Great Walks of New Zealand</div>
Explore New Zealand's most spectacular wilderness regions with the self-guided hiking experts
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/NAA.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="North America Active"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>North America Active</div>
USA Canada hiking & cycling tour specialists, choose from self-guided or guided trips