Greeting school students, rural Vietnam

Cycling group celebrating on a coastal hillside with sweeping ocean views behind

Exploring Po Cham Towers

Cycling along a quiet village path through rural Vietnam,

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Vietnam Cycle: Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi

Vietnam cycling tour from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi with coastal, countryside and cultural highlights

Vietnam

17 Days from

Trip Code: VBR2

View dates to Book

Essential Information

Duration

17 Days

Activities

13 day cycle

Style

In Comfort Adventures

Accommodation

14 nights hotel
2 nights lodge

Meals

9 Dinners
13 Lunches
16 Breakfasts

Difficulty Grading: Moderate
These adventures involve cycling for up to 6 or 7 hours a day at a steady pace. You will need a good level of fitness and be in good health. The more time you can spend on a bike to help you prepare, the better. Be prepared for potential variable weather conditions. Suggested preparation; 1 hour of aerobic exercise, three to four times a week and extended periods of exercise during the weekend will accustom you to regular exercise. This trip is not a race. There will be a support truck following the group on all cycling days should you choose to load your bike and watch the scenery pass from your private air conditioned group vehicle.
5 / 10
Moderate

Carbon Footprint

29kg of CO₂-e PP per day

(464kg of CO₂-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

Cycle from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi through diverse regions of Vietnam
Ride through the Central Highlands, coastal roads and mountain passes
Visit historic sites including My Lai and Hue’s imperial landmarks
Cycle the Hai Van Pass with views over the East Sea
Explore northern Vietnam including Mai Chau, Pu Luong and Ninh Binh
Experience the contrast between Ho Chi Minh City’s energy and Hanoi’s cultural heritage
Enjoy the support of a backup vehicle and the option to hire an e-bike

Overview

Cycle Vietnam from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi on a journey linking the country’s south and north through diverse landscapes and cultures. Ride through the Mekong Delta, along the central coastline and into the historic cities and rural regions that define Vietnam’s character. Covering approximately 735km (456mi), the route includes a mix of flat sections, rolling terrain and more challenging climbs, with daily rides typically between 60–100km (37–62mi). The physical challenge is balanced by the depth of experience gained travelling by bike through remote villages, agricultural areas and culturally rich regions.

Itinerary

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Join the trip in Ho Chi Minh City and meet the local support team of guides, mechanics and drivers. A bike fitting is scheduled at 4pm with a transfer to our bike depot so please ensure you arrive in plenty of time for this. We can assist with pre and post tour accommodation should you wish to avail of it, otherwise make your way to our group hotel and bike fitting. Once our bikes have been assigned, we'll enjoy by a casual with our team to learn about the days ahead. Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam’s largest city and a key gateway to the Mekong Delta. Accommodation: The Odys Boutique Hotel or similar

Meals: D

Depart early in the morning from Ho Chi Minh City and transfer towards the highlands Depart Ho Chi Minh City early this morning, leaving the hotel at 6:00am (time subject to change) and travelling out of the city as the landscape gradually shifts from urban sprawl to the foothills of the Central Highlands. A relaxed breakfast is taken en route before reaching the ride start point, where you begin your cycling journey through increasingly rural scenery. The ride begins in Ðinh Quán District, passing through a productive agricultural region of banana groves, mango orchards and pepper vines. Along the way, you encounter everyday rural life, with local farmers and children often greeting you as you cycle through small communities. Continuing toward Tà Lài Village on the edge of Nam Cát Tiên Forest, the route traverses land traditionally inhabited by the Cho Ro people, with a mix of flat sections and gradual climbs. Lunch is served at a local restaurant by the river. In the afternoon, a shorter, gentle ride of approximately one hour completes today’s cycling before transferring by vehicle to Bao Loc, a highland town known for its tea-growing region and cooler climate. This evening, join your group for a welcome dinner to mark the beginning of the journey. Accommodation: Sandals Vista Hotel or similar Total ascent: 750m / 2460ft

Meals: B,L,D

Today’s ride takes you into Vietnam’s Central Highlands as you make your way toward Da Lat, a region known for its cooler climate and diverse landscapes. The route features a series of sustained climbs, with rewarding views across coffee and tea plantations that characterise this fertile area. A picnic lunch is enjoyed en route before continuing toward Da Lat. You arrive in the late afternoon and transfer to your hotel, with time to relax or explore the town. Dinner is included this evening at a local restaurant, where you can enjoy the rich flavours and regional dishes that make Vietnamese cuisine so distinctive. Accommodation: Colline Hotel or similar Total ascent: 1000m / 3280ft

Meals: B,L,D

Today's journey by bike marks the beginning of your descent from the Central Highlands toward the coast, cycling through a changing landscape as cooler mountain air gives way to the warmer coastal plains. The route combines extended downhill sections with flatter terrain, offering a varied and rewarding day on the bike. Lunch is taken at a local restaurant en route before continuing toward Nha Trang. Depending on the conditions and group progress, you'll arrive in the late afternoon and transfer to your hotel, with time to relax after the day’s ride. Dinner is included this evening, offering the opportunity to sample fresh coastal flavours and regional specialties, with seafood often featuring prominently on the menu in this seaside setting. Accommodation: Sunrise Nha Trang or similar Total ascent: 800m / 2600ft

Meals: B,L,D

Today is set aside to relax and enjoy the coastal setting of Nha Trang. You may choose to spend time by the beach, swim in the ocean, or explore the city’s markets and cafés at your own pace. Alternatively, you can visit the Po Nagar Cham Towers, originally constructed in AD 781 and recognised as one of Vietnam’s oldest historical sites. Breakfast is provided at the hotel. To give you the flexibility to discover local dining options, lunch and dinner are not included, so you can decide where to eat and experience the region’s fresh coastal cuisine. Your guide will have some suggestions for some great options to consider. Accommodation: Sunrise Nha Trang or similar

Meals: B

Begin the day with a transfer to Hon Gom Peninsula before starting cycling. The route follows coastal terrain past shrimp farms and rice paddies. Central Vietnam’s coastal plains support extensive agriculture and aquaculture. The day ends in Tuy Hoa. Accommodation: Sala Tuy Hoa Grand Hotel or similar

Meals: B,L

After breakfast, cycle south along the coastline toward Quy Nhon, the provincial capital. Today’s ride follows a scenic coastal route where fishing plays a central role in daily life, with working harbours and shoreline activity visible along the way. As you approach Quy Nhon, you may see the region’s distinctive basket-shaped fishing boats, a hallmark of this part of Vietnam. You may wish to sample local specialties such as bún ch? cá (fish cake rice vermicelli) and cha ram tôm dat (crispy shrimp spring rolls), both widely enjoyed in this region when you choose which meal to finish your day with. Accommodation: Anmira Hoi An or similar

Meals: B,L

After breakfast, transfer by vehicle out of the city to avoid the morning traffic before beginning your ride. The remainder of the morning is spent cycling approximately 80 km / 50 mi through a mix of coastal scenery and rural countryside, with opportunities to observe local shrimp and salt farms and encounter daily life along the way. Following lunch at a local restaurant (the exact location for this will depend on the progress today), continue by vehicle on a scenic drive to Quang Ngai. The evening is at your leisure to explore the town. Dinner is included at a local restaurant. Accommodation: NewCC Hotel or similar

Meals: B,L,D

Begin the day with a guided visit to the My Lai Sanctuary, a significant historical site that offers insight into the events of the Vietnam War. Afterwards, continue by bike along quiet village roads and through small fishing communities, experiencing a more relaxed pace of life as you travel through the countryside. Later, transfer to Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed town, arriving in time for dinner and an evening to explore its lantern-lit streets. Accommodation: Anmira Hoi An Resort or similar

Meals: B,L,D

Today is at leisure to explore Hoi An at your own pace. Once a thriving trading port from the 15th century, the town reflects a blend of Vietnamese, Chinese and Japanese influences, evident in its preserved architecture and historic street layout. You may wish to wander the old town, visit local markets or simply take in the atmosphere. Your guide can provide recommendations on places to visit and where to dine. Accommodation: Anmira Hoi An Resort or similar

Meals: B

A long day awaits, expect today to be one of the most challenging and rewarding cycling days of the journey. As always, our support vehicle is available throughout the day should you prefer to take a break from the ride at any point. After a short transfer out of town, begin riding along the coast toward Da Nang before starting the climb to the renowned Hai Van Pass. The road ascends gradually to approximately 480 m / 1,575 ft, with a series of switchbacks and expansive views across the coastline and the East Sea. The summit offers one of the most celebrated viewpoints in Vietnam. From the top, enjoy a long descent before stopping for lunch. In the afternoon, continue cycling along the shoreline for approximately 44 km / 27 mi en route to Hue, the former capital of the Nguyen Dynasty, where you will spend the night. Accommodation: TTC Imperial Hotel or similar Total ascent: 650m / 2100ft

Meals: B,L

This morning is set aside to immerse ourselves in Hue, cycling around key historical sites, including Vong Canh Hill, the tomb of Khai Dinh, the Imperial Citadel and the seven-storey Thien Mu Pagoda, gaining insight into the legacy of Vietnam’s former royal capital. After lunch at a local restaurant, transfer to the airport for a short domestic flight of approximately one hour to Hanoi. On arrival, transfer to your hotel in the Old Quarter, the perfect base to explore this bustling city from. Accommodation: Le Jardin Haute Couture or similar Total ascent: 200m / 650ft

Meals: B,L

This morning, begin riding toward Hoa Binh Lake with a steady 30 km / 19 mi climb that rewards your effort with expansive views over the surrounding highlands. A picnic lunch is enjoyed by the lake, providing a well-earned break in a scenic setting. In the afternoon, continue through a landscape of rice paddies and traditional villages, passing through communities of the Thai ethnic minority. The route follows a mix of single-track paths and rural trails, offering a more immersive ride through the countryside before returning to Mai Chau. This evening, enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at our comfortable ecolodge, made with local wood, palm leaf and stone, all combining in the evocative design of Mai Chau’s ethnic Thai stilt houses. Accommodation: Amigo Pu Luong or similar

Meals: B,L,D

Today’s ride is one of the more challenging and visually rewarding days, with two sustained climbs taking you through remote landscapes, traditional villages and some of Southeast Asia’s most striking rice terrace scenery. The first climb leads out of the Mai Chau Valley and onto a higher plateau, where the terrain shifts into more mountainous country. Riding along shaded paths beside clear streams, you enter Pu Luong Nature Reserve and stop for a traditional lunch overlooking the surrounding rice terraces. After a gentler 10 km / 6 mi section across flatter terrain through fields and ethnic minority villages, a shorter but steeper climb brings you to your accommodation in Pu Luong. The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings. Accommodation: Amigo Pu Luong Resort or similar

Meals: B,L,D

Begin the day with a long descent from Pu Luong, riding down through steep terraced landscapes into the valley below. From here, continue along a remote cross-country route for approximately 15 km / 9 mi, following quiet tracks through bamboo groves and riverside scenery, far from the main roads. Afterwards, transfer by vehicle for approximately one hour before resuming your ride toward Ninh Binh. Often referred to as “Halong Bay on land,” this region is known for its striking limestone karst formations rising dramatically from rice paddies and waterways. Cycling through this landscape offers a fitting finale to the journey. Arrive in Ninh Binh and settle into your hotel. This evening, gather for a farewell dinner to celebrate completing approximately 735 km / 457 mi of cycling across Vietnam. Accommodation: Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Resort or similar

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed ride through Ninh Binh, taking in its distinctive landscapes and historical sites, with time to stop for photos and local insights along the way. You then swap bikes for a traditional boat journey, where a local rower guides you on a 1.5-hour / 0.9 mi* exploration through river caves and secluded lagoons, offering a different perspective of this remarkable landscape. Following lunch, transfer by vehicle back to Hanoi, arriving in the late afternoon in time for a final evening in the city. *distance is approximate for reference only Accommodation: Le Jardin Haute Couture or similar

Meals: B,L

Time for one more leisurely breakfast and the opportunity to explore Hanoi further should you so wish. We can assist in arranging departure transfers if you wish.

Meals: B

Ready to start your adventure?

21 scheduled departures between 4 Nov 2026 and 27 Dec 2027.

Departs 4 Nov 2026 – ends 20 Nov 2026 (17 days)
Departs 4 Dec 2026 – ends 20 Dec 2026 (17 days)
Departs 26 Dec 2026 – ends 11 Jan 2027 (17 days)
Departs 9 Jan 2027 – ends 25 Jan 2027 (17 days)
Departs 20 Jan 2027 – ends 5 Feb 2027 (17 days)
Departs 13 Feb 2027 – ends 1 Mar 2027 (17 days)
… and 15 more departures.

View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

All meals as specified in the itinerary: 16 breakfasts, 13 lunches and 10 dinners
All biking gear (mountain bike, helmet, 10L pannier, water cage)
Accommodation in 4–5 star hotels on a twin or double share basis
Support vehicle for luggage, equipment and transfers
Boat journeys and river transfers as per itinerary
Entrance fees as listed in the itinerary
Cycling guides and mechanics (number depends on group size)
Water, soft drinks, snacks and fruit on cycling days
Souvenir water bottle, drawstring backpack, t-shirt and cycling jersey
1 domestic flight, economy class Hue to Hanoi

Not included

International flights
Airport transfers
Visas
Travel Insurance (compulsory)
Personal expenses
Meals not listed as included
Tips and gratuities
Any items not listed as included

Extra trip info

Who will I travel with?Accommodation Bikes Trail surfaces Will My Trip Run?FAQs Why Book With Us

Group shot, 'African wilderness in comfort' trip | Peter Walton

Travelling with our local partners

This trip is run by one of our local partners, on a departure shared with travellers from other companies.

What's the benefit to you? More departure dates, and dates that reach their minimum numbers sooner, because bookings from several companies go into one group. Your guides live and work in the region.

Who is in your group? Expect a mix of travellers and nationalities, not only people who booked with World Expeditions.

What will we tell you when you book? We advise the name of the local partner at the time of booking, along with any terms of their own, such as an additional deposit. These apply alongside our Booking Terms and Conditions.

Travelling alone? On some partner-operated trips your own room is required. The room options on this page show which applies to this trip.

Hotel

In cities and larger towns, accommodation is in carefully selected 4–5 star properties that offer a high standard of comfort, service and location. These hotels are typically centrally located or well positioned for easy access to key areas, allowing you to make the most of your time both on and off the bike. Where possible, properties are chosen for their character and atmosphere, reflecting the destination while still delivering consistent quality. All hotels used on our cycling trips have been tested over many years and are selected based on strong traveller feedback, reliability and operational suitability for active itineraries.

Resort Style Lodge Hotel

Set in a peaceful riverside location, a resort-style property offers a relaxed and comfortable stay within easy reach of the surrounding town. The accommodation features well-appointed rooms with views across gardens, pool areas or nearby waterways, providing a quiet space to unwind after a day’s cycling. Designed to balance comfort and convenience, the property offers a calm environment away from busier areas, while still allowing easy access to local attractions, restaurants and cultural sites.

Modern Mountain Bikes

The bikes used on this trip are modern aluminium framed, front suspension mountain bikes. Consistent and safe braking is ensured by disc brakes and the wide spread of gears provide the ability to ride up and back down the hills in comfort and confidence. If you have a saddle and clip in pedals you wish to bring and use, the mechanic would more than happy to fit them for you.

e-Bikes Available

Cycle hassle-free and climb mountains with ease, enjoy nature and landscapes without physical limitations. Electronic Bikes make it possible and are available to hire for the entire trip for an additional fee. The e-Bikes available feature Hybrid Cycling Technology, combining electric and human power to produce the most efficient, powerful and natural e-Bike riding experience. Consistent and safe braking is ensured by hydraulic disc brakes. If you have a saddle and clip in pedals you wish to bring and use, the mechanic would more than happy to fit them for you.

Our fully supported cycle trips offer backup vehicles, bike mechanics and quality local guides | Lachlan Gardiner

Support vehicle & mechanic

This cycling trip is fully supported. Sets of tools are aboard the support truck and your bike mechanic will assist with any difficulties. The vehicle support also allows you to take a break when you need it.

Cycling surrounded by rice paddies and village life in rural Vietnam

Cycling the Mekong Delta

Cycling in the Mekong Delta follows a mix of quiet sealed roads, narrow concrete paths and sections of compacted dirt. Routes are generally flat, running alongside water and through villages, with minimal traffic. Surfaces are mostly smooth and non-technical, though short gravel or dirt sections may occur, particularly in more rural areas.

Cycling the Central Highlands & Central Coast

Cycling across Vietnam’s Central Highlands and Central Coast follows a mix of sealed roads, quiet secondary routes and occasional rural lanes. In the highlands, terrain is more varied with longer climbs and descents through coffee plantations, forested hills and agricultural landscapes, while the coastal sections tend to be flatter or gently undulating, often tracing the shoreline past fishing villages and lagoons. Road surfaces are generally good throughout, though some rough or broken pavement can occur in more remote areas, along with short gravel sections. Overall, the riding is non-technical, with the main challenge coming from elevation changes in the highlands rather than the surface itself.

Cycling Northern Vietnam

Cycling between Mai Chau, Pu Luong and back to Hanoi follows a mix of sealed roads, narrow concrete paths and sections of dirt or gravel. The terrain is mountainous, with steady climbs and descents through valleys, rice terraces and forested hills. Surfaces can be uneven in places, particularly on rural tracks, but remain non-technical. The main challenge comes from elevation rather than the riding surface.

Every departure date advises whether the date is confirmed, and roughly how full it is. Here is what each one means.

Is the departure confirmed?

Guaranteed to go This departure has reached its minimum number and will run.
It is the point travellers should wait for before booking any non-refundable flights.

Close to guaranteed This appears only when a date is close to reaching minimum numbers. If it shows 1 or 2 to guaranteed, book as a pair on a date needing two and it reaches its minimum. Your booking confirms the date for everybody already booked.

How full is the date I am looking at?

Space is filling or Space is filling fast This date has bookings and places are still open. Filling fast means limited spots available, so don't leave your decision too late.

Closing soon Down to its last few places, or close enough to departure that we are finalising numbers. Still bookable online.

Closed Not bookable online - either full, or inside the notice we need to arrange permits, flights and logistics. Ask us anyway, you never know!

Availability questions answered

Will this trip actually go ahead, or could it be cancelled?

If a date shows Guaranteed to go, it runs regardless of further bookings.

What does 2 to guarantee mean?

It means two travellers are enough to confirm the departure. It could be 2 more to add to the group, or the date only needs 2 people to run. Either way, if you book for two people, the date will become guaranteed to run.

What happens if my departure does not reach minimum numbers?

You will know the status before you book. Every date on this page is labelled, and dates marked “Guaranteed to go” are running regardless of further bookings. Where a date has not reached its minimum we either offer a surcharge to operate for a smaller group size so it can still run, or we cancel it. We contact you directly either way.

Will I get my money back if you cancel a departure?

If we cancel a departure due to not meeting minimum trip numbers, you receive a full refund of everything you have paid us less any non recoverable costs, where insurance may cover you. We cannot refund money committed elsewhere – additional non refundable deposits advised at the time of booking, flights, visas, vaccinations, gear - which is why it is worth waiting for “Guaranteed to go” before booking other arrangements around this trip date. Please read our Booking Terms and Conditions before you book.

Why can't I book some dates online?

Each trip closes online a set time before departure. Permits, internal flights and hut or campsite bookings all have to be arranged before we take payment. Call or enquire as it might still be possible to organise last minute places.

The date I want is closed. What are my options and why does it say to enquire?

Cancellations happen and places do open up on closed dates, so it is worth being on our list. We can also tell you which nearby date on the same trip has space, which is usually the faster route.

None of these dates suit me. Can you run this trip on another date?

Yes, as a private departure. We can run this trip on a date you choose, for your own group - family, friends, a club, or in many cases, just for the two of you. Tell us when you want to travel and who is coming, and we will build it around that.

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Moderate, with daily cycling on mixed terrain including some rolling hills and longer distances.

Yes, this is a fully guided cycling trip supported by experienced local guides and crew.

A mix of hotels reflecting the regions visited, typically with twin-share rooms and private facilities.

No, your main luggage is transported by the support vehicle, and you carry a day pack only.

The best time to cycle Vietnam from south to north is from December to April, when conditions are generally drier with moderate temperatures.

Cycling experience is required to complete the daily distances.

Yes. You are welcome to bring your own saddle or clip-in pedals, and our team will fit them to your bike. If you have a saddle that you already know is comfortable for longer rides, we highly recommend bringing it with you.

Fully supported cycling journey with vehicle, guides and mechanical support
Carefully designed route covering Vietnam from south to north
Local cycling guides providing regional knowledge and support
Combination of cycling, cultural visits and scenic transfers
Includes domestic flight to connect central and northern Vietnam

Guaranteeing A Great Vietnam Trip

Pioneering World Firsts

Quality equipment

Quality accommodations

Innovative itineraries

Custom built, reliable transport

Our all inclusive approach

Vietnam Cycle: Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi

Trip highlights

Overview

Itinerary

Ready to start your adventure?