Vietnam by Bike
Vietnam by Bike
Vietnam by Bike
14 Days Starting in Hanoi and ending in Ho Chi Minh City
Visiting: Vietnam
Tour Overview
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.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrive In Hanoi, Vietnam
Meals Included: D
Upon arrival, a World Expeditions representative will greet you outside the arrivals hall at column 10, and you'll be transferred to the group hotel. 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
Day 2 : Transfer To Hoa Binh, Boat And Cycle To Mai Hich
Meals Included: B, L, 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)
Day 3 : Cycle To Pu Luong
Meals Included: 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)
Day 4 : Cycle To Van Long
Meals Included: 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
Day 5 : Transfer To Ha Long Bay
Meals Included: 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
Day 6 : Return To Hanoi, Night Train To Hue
Meals Included: B
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
Day 7 : Cycle To Tam Giang & Phu Thuan
Meals Included: B, L
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
Day 8 : Cycle To Lang Co
Meals Included: 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
Day 9 : Cycle To Hoi An
Meals Included: 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
Day 10 : Hoi An, A Day At Leisure And Sunset Cycle/Cruise
Meals Included: B
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
Day 11 : Flight To Ho Chi Minh
Meals Included: 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
Day 12 : Cycle To Cu Chi Tunnels, Transfer To The Mekong Delta
Meals Included: B, L, D
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
Day 13 : Explore The Mekong Delta, Return To Ho Chi Minh City
Meals Included: B, L
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
Day 14 : Ho Chi Minh City, Trip Concludes
Meals Included: B
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.
What's Included
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Accommodation
8 nights hotel -
13 breakfasts, 10 lunches and 6 dinners
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8 nights comfortable hotel on a twinshare basis, and 1 night on a traditional junk boat on a twinshare basis
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3 nights traditional guesthouse on multishare basis, and 1 night on comfortable train in a 4 berth sleeper carriage
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English speaking guide
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All transport throughout including train sector on the Reunification Express
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Airport transfers (on first day and last day of the trip)
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Private air conditioned vehicles
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Internal flight from Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh City valued at US$95
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Modern mountain bikes on cycling days
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Support vehicle with spare parts and bike mechanic on cycling days
What's Not Included
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International airfares
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Visa fees
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Bike Helmet (compulsory)
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Travel Insurance (compulsory)
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Meals and beverages not mentioned in the itinerary
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Items of a personal nature such as laundry, phone calls, alcohol etc
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Tips and gratuities
What You Carry
In your daypack you will need to carry a rainjacket, water bottle, camera gear, valuables and personal items such as sunscreen, lip-eze etc.
Accommodation
8 nights hotel
Hotels: in cities and large towns you will be accommodated in 3 to 4 star properties that are generally well located, atmospheric and reliable and where we have seen a good track record with traveller satisfaction over many years.
Lodges and homestays: in Asia we only use good quality lodges situated in natural environments. They are not luxury lodges, but what they do offer is comfortable accommodation which is well maintained and with good facilities. Homestays provide an excellent insight into local lives. Facilities are basic, with a mattress, sheets and mosquito net provided. However, the cultural experience is well worth the basic amenities.
Grading
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 majority of our moderately graded trips involve the carrying of a day pack only, though some may involve carrying a full pack. 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.
Check out our Q&As
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
We have offices on three continents which means your travelling companions will be just that – international and wonderfully eclectic. Part of small group travel means that although travellers come from various locations and backgrounds, you will be travelling with like-minded companions who, like you, are keen to share the experience and forge lifelong friendships.
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What about environmental impact?
We believe that adventure travel revolves around establishing a strong relationship with the people and environments in which we operate. Our responsible travel policies have been carefully developed to ensure that we minimise the impact of our presence and help to protect the regions we visit while contributing positively to the local community.
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What should I pack?
Your pre-departure documents include a detailed packing list with items that you need to bring. While most of the equipment for daily activities is included in your tour cost, some items like helmets and hiking boots are best brought from home. The pre-departure documents also include information on layering and recommended brands for various items to ensure you are fully prepared for your trip.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Yes. World Expeditions does not require single travellers to pay a surcharge for travelling alone on the vast majority of our trips. Our holidays are primarily on a twin share basis, so if you are joining the group as a solo traveller, we will match you with someone of your own gender. The choice is yours however; if you prefer not to share, we do offer single supplements for private occupancy.
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Are tips included in my trip price?
Tips are not included in the tour cost. Tipping is a personal thing, do not worry about how much, or when, to tip. Tipping guidelines are provided for certain destinations in our pre departure information upon booking, however the best advice will be provided by your tour leader.
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Am I suited to small-group travel?
We recognise that many of our travellers have not been on a ‘group trip’ before. Yet what our departures provide is both structure and flexibility, allowing you plenty of freedom within the framework of the itinerary. You’ll find that with our maximum group size at 16, you’ll travel in a minimal impact style with a great group of like-minded travellers.
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Can you advise which vaccinations are recommended?
While our pre-departure kit provides information on vaccinations, we suggest that you consult your doctor, local government inoculation centre or a travel medical specialist in order to get the most current advice regarding vaccination requirements.
Reviews from travellers on this tour
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
World Expeditions allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform world expeditions, 70 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
World Expeditions requires a minimum deposit of 250 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of world expeditions charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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