Cycling Tours

 

Indochina Adventure Bike Tour

Vietnam Cambodia Laos

OVERVIEW

Experience an unforgettable cycling adventure through the enchanting landscapes and vibrant cultures of Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos. This bike tour will take you on a journey through bustling cities, tranquil countryside, and ancient temple ruins, offering a unique perspective on this captivating region of Indochina.

Explore Vietnam's vibrant energy, starting in bustling Saigon. Cycle through the chaotic streets, absorbing the sights and sounds. Then head south to the lush Mekong Delta, where you'll navigate narrow waterways, verdant rice paddies, and charming villages, immersing yourself in rural life.

Cruise the Mekong River to Phnom Penh, Cambodia's capital. Explore the country's rich history and culture by visiting iconic sites like the Royal Palace, Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, and the Killing Fields. Cycle north to Siem Reap, gateway to Angkor Archaeological Park. Explore the awe-inspiring Angkor temples, including Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Ta Prohm, marveling at their intricate carvings and timeless beauty.

Leaving Cambodia behind, cross the border into Laos and pedal your way to the tranquil island of Don Det in the 4,000 Islands region. Then, cycle through picturesque countryside to the charming town of Champasak, where you'll discover the ancient temple complex of Wat Phu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the Khmer Empire.

Our adventure ends in the vibrant city of Pakse. Take time to reflect on your incredible journey and bid farewell to this enchanting region, filled with memories to last a lifetime.

 

 

Highlights:

Discover the Mekong Delta and beyond by pedaling the quiet backroads. Whether it's a day trip or an extended vacation, you are sure to get closer to the locals with our guide leading you on hassle-free journeys through some of Vietnam's most scenic areas.

Cross the Vietnam-Cambodia border by boat and explore Phnom Penh's history, including the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, Silk Farm, and Tuol Sleng Museum.

Cycle the awe-inspiring Angkor archaeological park in Cambodia like never before. Immerse yourself in the rich history and breathtaking beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site as you pedal through ancient temples, jungle trails, and lush landscapes.

Crossing the border unveils a new chapter of adventure, with Laos presenting its own array of cultural and natural treasures. Exploring Don Det by bike unveils a myriad of enchanting highlights that capture the essence of this idyllic island in southern Laos. As you pedal along dusty paths and narrow lanes, you'll encounter breathtaking scenery, charming villages, and a sense of tranquility that lies along the Mekong River.

Explore Vat Phou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Southeast Asia's most spectacular Khmer temple complexes in Laos. Dating back to the 11th century, this architectural masterpiece features intricate carvings, imposing staircases, and panoramic views over the surrounding plains.

Cycle from Pakse to the breathtaking Bolaven Plateau, a journey that promises a fusion of scenic beauty, cultural discovery, and thrilling exploration. You will explore the waterfall of Tad Fane, Tad Yuang Waterfalls and Tad Gneuang.

 

 

Day 1: Arrive in Ho Chi Minh

 

Upon arrival, please look out for the Siem Reaper welcome sign at the arrivals gate. We will transfer you to your hotel, where you can take your time and relax by the pool or venture out for your first exploration of this ancient city.

Our tour guide will be waiting to meet you at your hotel promptly at 17:00 hrs to conduct a comprehensive bike fitting and afterwards, join you for a delicious dinner to celebrate the beginning of your exciting journey by bike.

Day 2: Ben Tre - Tra Vinh

Today, followed by a 2-hour quick transfer to the Mekong. You will board a local ferry to get to Ben Tre known for being the Kingdom of the Coconut and nursery gardens. Hop on your bikes and you will be treated to a stunning array of colors as you pedal past the beautiful riverside homes and villages that line the delta. Their economy is driven by coconuts, which are at the core of their culture, and as you cross bridges and journey along the winding roads, it's hard not to be in awe of this stunning landscape. Then we take a sampan (traditional boat) through narrow canals before boarding a ferry for a refreshing boat ride across the wide Co Chien River.

Lunch will be served at a local restaurant before cycling through the most famous water coconut trails and ending with a ferry crossing from the main arm of the Mekong river to Tra Vinh town, where you will spend the night in the city center.

Day 3: Tra Vinh - Can Tho 

This morning, we will set out on an exciting journey to explore the natural beauty and the unique Khmer architecture and culture of this region. Leaving Tra Vinh City, we will cycle a short distance to uncover the breathtaking beauty of Ba Om Pond, an 800-year-old Khmer architectural masterpiece. This special location is renowned for its seasonal lotus flowers and is sure to be a highlight of our journey. Then we will see rice paddies interspersed along the route, and coconut trees will fill the horizon. This is quite spectacular to behold and is well worth a photo stop. This region is renowned for being the second-largest producer of rice in Vietnam.

After lunch, we will take an approx. 1-hour transfer to a hotel in Can Tho, where we will have the opportunity to relax with nightlife and rooftop views from restaurants in the city center. Be sure not to miss out on its well-known night markets!

Day 4: Can Tho - Rach Gia

This morning, we will be embarking on an exciting journey from Can Tho to the renowned Cai Rang floating market. Taking a boat as our mode of transport, we can expect to encounter the bustling activity of the market, where merchants and vendors sell their wares on small boats and barges. It will be a truly unique experience that you won't soon forget. Then, you will explore the canal system of the Mekong, where we will see some of the canals that were used to transport boats during the Vietnam War. 

Afterward, we will cycle along the river on paved and secluded roads, where we will be blessed with breathtaking views of the region's lush fruit gardens that seem to seamlessly blend in with the picturesque countryside trails. En-route and take a short transfer to your hotel in Rach Gia. 

Day 5: Rach Gia - Chau Doc 

Today, we will take a short transfer via our private shuttle to the seat of the Southern Kingdom of Vietnam as it was recognized 2000 years ago. We will visit a local museum dedicated to the history of the region and specifically the cultural importance of the region’s jewel production. For many in this area, pride in their family history as rulers of the South is still evident today.

After having the opportunity to enjoy a variety of unique and immersive cultural experiences, we will cycle towards Chau Doc. As this region is prone to flooding on an annual basis, compared to the days when we used to cycle here, there are now far fewer local routes through the rice paddies.

Lunch will be served after this relaxing experience before you get back on your bikes for your overnight stay in Chau Doc City.

Day 6: Chau Doc - Phnom Penh by Speed Boat

For this last day, your legs will get a well-deserved rest. You will check out of your accommodation and have breakfast and you will then board on a comfortable speed boat heading to Cambodia at 6:45 am.

The boat ride will take about 5 hours, during which you will be able to enjoy some snacks.

Visas at the border will be arranged by the crew. Please prepare 2x ID photos (with a white background) as well as 35 USD in cash for the border (which must be undamaged, with no writing on them or torn or taped edges).

Day 7: Phnom Penh City Tour by Cyclo

After breakfast, your day will start with a relaxing cyclo ride along the Boulevard to the Independent Monument. During the ride, you'll enjoy the beautiful view of Phnom Penh from the riverside. You will make some stops along the way to take pictures of the Riverfront and the Royal Palace.

Then visit the magnificent Royal Palace, a breathtaking complex that proudly serves as the esteemed residence of the King of Cambodia. Immerse yourself in awe-inspiring architecture, marvel at intricate decorations, and learn about Cambodian culture and art. Inside the palace grounds, you'll find the Silver Pagoda, which houses a remarkable collection of Buddha statues and a floor adorned with over 5,000 silver tiles.

Continue to the National Museum, also called Musee des Beaux-Arts. A French archaeologist and painter, Georges Groslier, designed it in Khmer style in 1917. The museum contains a collection of Khmer art - notably sculptures - throughout the ages.

Your included visits to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum will introduce you to the tragic legacy of the Khmer Rouge. Your expert guide will tell you the story of this period in detail, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of this dark chapter in Cambodia's history.

Day 8: Phnom Penh – Kampong Thom

Today, we escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and cross the river by ferry boat, making our way towards the north of Phnom Penh and the Silk Islands (Koh Dach).

After arriving on land, we will bike through orchards and vegetable farms, enjoying the peaceful farmland and learning about the lives of the people who call the Silk Islands home. Along the way, we will park our bikes for some interesting cultural stops as we check out traditional village industries and get a better sense of authentic Cambodian life on these islands. Learn more about Cambodia’s silk weaving history, stroll through quiet villages, and relax on the riverbank of the Mekong River. We will have lunch at a local restaurant before transferring by van to Kampong Thom Province.

Day 9: Kampong Thom - Siem Reap & Angkor

This morning, we cycle across the remote villages to the ancient temple site of Sambor Prey Kuk. This temple site was constructed in the 7th century and functioned as the capital of the Chenla Empire. It is one of the oldest temple sites in Cambodia and is mainly covered in jungles.

After our guided tour through the temples, we enjoy a local picnic lunch prepared by the local community in small wooden huts surrounding the temple complex and absorb the local sights and sounds. After lunch, we continue our ride through rice paddies and small villages, with locals greeting us as we cycle by. We then hop back into our van for a 3 hours transfer to Siem Reap and Angkor.

Day 10: Floating Village Bike & Boat

This morning, we are thrilled to embark on our exciting bicycle tour at 9:00 am and explore the stunning Tonle Sap Trail with its unique sights of life on the floating village. Along the way, your knowledgeable guide will take you to explore the local farms and engage in various activities that bring you closer to understanding the everyday lives of Cambodian villagers. You can experience a glimpse into their culture, history, and traditions which is sure to be an unforgettable journey.

Afterward, take a short cruise to Kampong Phluk to see the floating villages, where you have an opportunity to learn about life on the water. Tonle Sap Lake is the largest lake in Southeast Asia and offers a unique way of life for those living on Cambodia’s Tonle Sap Lake, which is recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. 

Day 11: Angkor Sunrise Discovery

Today, we take a short transfer to Angkor Wat in time to see the sunrise. Your guide will take you to the best spots to watch the colorful sunrise. Then, go through the Angkor central complex and learn about the history and symbolism of Angkor Wat.

Once you have discovered Angkor Wat and enjoy a breakfast, just outside the temple area in peaceful surroundings, Afterward, proceed with the bike tour down the trails behind Angkor Park. Follow tracks that take you through small villages and see how the locals go about their daily lives.

As you explore more of the Angkor Archaeological Park, you will continue to uncover a multitude of other sites such as Angkor Thom, Bayon, Ta Prohm temple and many other lesser-known temples embedded deep within the jungle trails. These hidden gems are filled with a rich history that can only be experienced by venturing off the beaten track.

Day 12: Siem Reap - Koh Ker - Stung Treng

Today marks the beginning of our exciting journey as we bid farewell to Siem Reap. Our adventure kicks off with a scenic cycling route along the tranquil backroads of the countryside, immersing ourselves in the natural beauty that surrounds us. As we progress, we venture off-road and navigate through the lush jungle terrain, embarking on an unforgettable expedition straight to the awe-inspiring destination of Koh Ker. Visit Koh Ker, the former capital of the Khmer Empire between 928 and 944 A. D. The Koh Ker temple boasts a unique style unlike any other temple in Cambodia, bearing a resemblance to the ancient pyramids of Egypt. Partially overgrown by the forest and inhabited only by birds, this temple and its surroundings offer an exceptional experience. Afterwards, we will transfer about 2 hours to reach Stung Treng Province where we will spend the night.

Day 13: Stung Treng - Laos Border - Don Khone (4000 Island)

This morning, we will embark on a seamless journey to the Laos border, which will take approximately 1 hour of travel time. Upon arrival at the border, we will efficiently complete the necessary procedures by stamping out at the Cambodia immigration checkpoint and obtaining a visa on arrival for just USD 35 per person, along with providing 1 photo at the Laos side.

Then, we start the day with a short cycle to catch a ferry to Don Det Island, and we go for a short ride around the island towards our hotel in Don Khone nestled along the majestic Mekong River. The scenic route offers a captivating experience filled with cultural encounters and natural beauty, making it a truly unforgettable adventure.

Day 14: Don Det - Champasak

This morning, board another boat back to the mainland and proceed to Champasak. Pedal along the smooth tarmac road, embracing the nostalgic allure of colonial Champasak en route to the awe-inspiring Vat Phou. This Khmer Hindu temple complex, with origins dating back to the 5th century, invites you to delve into a captivating exploration of ancient history and architectural magnificence. As you traverse the tranquil countryside, each pedal stroke brings you closer to uncovering the secrets of this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy an overnight stay at Champasak village.

Day 15: Champasak - Pakse

Following a delightful breakfast, we cycle through charming streets adorned with picturesque French colonial buildings, stopping to observe local life in this remote village and catch glimpses of daily life in Laos. We will have lunch at a local restaurant near the Mekong River. Afterward, we will cross to the other side of the river and begin a trail that winds through local villages up to the summit of Mount Phusalao. Witness the view over Pakse and the Mekong River from the viewpoint atop the hill, we then head to the city, making a final stop at a bustling local market along the way.

Day 16: Pakse - Bolaven Plateau

Today, we will have breakfast like locals in Laos and look for some fresh Laotian noodles. After that, we will start our journey to the Bolaven Plateau, which is famous for its two breathtaking waterfalls - Tad Lo and Tad Fane. This region is surrounded by lush coffee plantations.

We will be making a few stops during our trip, starting with Tad Fane and Tad Yuang waterfalls. Tad Fane consists of twin waterfalls that are 120 meters high and formed by the merging of Champy and Pak Koot rivers. These falls are located on the edge of the Dong Hua Sao protected area, which is 38 km away from Pakse. After that, we will ride towards Paksong where we will visit the Sinouk Coffee Resort. During the visit, an expert in coffee will guide us through the coffee plantation, explaining everything about the indigenous coffee trees and various processing stages. Following the visit, we will have a delicious lunch, and most of the vegetables used in the meal come from the on-site organic garden. Finally, we will visit Tad Gneuang Waterfall, and you are free to take a dip in the waterfalls if you wish to. In the evening, we will have a farewell dinner and say goodbye to the local team.

Day 17: Trip End

Today we can rest, relax and take coffee overlooking the Mekong before we make sure we depart the airport for an onward journey.