15 DAY EXPERIENCE BIKING - ACROSS VIETNAM
destinations / VIETNAM / TOURS
Overview
Hanoi /Transfer and cycle to Ninh Binh /Transfer to Halong Bay /Hanoi, overnight train to Hue /Hue /Hue to Hoi An /Hoi An /Cycle to Quang Ngai /Cycle to Kon Tum /Cycle to Buon Ma Thuot /Cycle To Nha Trang /Nha Trang boat ride /Fly to Ho Chi Minh City /Visit Cu Chi tunnels /Ho Chi Minh City - Departure
Day 1 Arrive in Hanoi
Arrive in Hanoi and transfer to your hotel. Late this afternoon your tour leader will meet you in the hotel lobby for a trip briefing. After a welcome dinner in a local restaurant and an opportunity to sample specialty dishes from the north we have tickets for a performance of Hanoi’s famous water puppet theatre, a series of 17 stories presented by 11 talented puppeteers and accompanied by a traditional Vietnamese pit orchestra. These musical stories portray historical legends and folk tales. Overnight: Hanoi
Arrive in Hanoi and transfer to your hotel. Late this afternoon your tour leader will meet you in the hotel lobby for a trip briefing. After a welcome dinner in a local restaurant and an opportunity to sample specialty dishes from the north we have tickets for a performance of Hanoi’s famous water puppet theatre, a series of 17 stories presented by 11 talented puppeteers and accompanied by a traditional Vietnamese pit orchestra. These musical stories portray historical legends and folk tales. Overnight: Hanoi
Day 2 Transfer and cycle to Ninh Binh
After breakfast, we journey by road to Ninh Binh (approx 120 km) well-known for its stunning scenery of imposing limestone outcrops and tranquil meandering rivers. On arrival cycle to Trang An and enjoy a boat ride through quintessential Vietnamese scenery. Next stop is Hoa Lu, the capital of the Dinh and early Le dynasties in Vietnam going back to the 10th and 11th century. From Hoa Lu, we continue to cycle along village roads to Tam Coc. Discover Thai Vi temple, built during Tran Dynasty in the 13th century and also visit the Van Ninh stone carving village. Our next stop is Bich Dong Pagoda on Ngu Nhac Mountain. Ride back to the hotel and enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight: Ninh Binh Cycling distance: 40km. The ride can be customised in length, as the support vehicle can be used at any time by tired riders.
After breakfast, we journey by road to Ninh Binh (approx 120 km) well-known for its stunning scenery of imposing limestone outcrops and tranquil meandering rivers. On arrival cycle to Trang An and enjoy a boat ride through quintessential Vietnamese scenery. Next stop is Hoa Lu, the capital of the Dinh and early Le dynasties in Vietnam going back to the 10th and 11th century. From Hoa Lu, we continue to cycle along village roads to Tam Coc. Discover Thai Vi temple, built during Tran Dynasty in the 13th century and also visit the Van Ninh stone carving village. Our next stop is Bich Dong Pagoda on Ngu Nhac Mountain. Ride back to the hotel and enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight: Ninh Binh Cycling distance: 40km. The ride can be customised in length, as the support vehicle can be used at any time by tired riders.
Day 3 Transfer to Halong Bay
In the morning transfer to Halong Bay (approx 3 hours) for an overnight cruise. Halong Bay is one of Vietnam's most stunning natural wonders, with more than 3,000 islands rising from the emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin. Many of these uninhabited islets and outcrops have been given imaginative names by the locals, due to their shapes, including Wading Ox, Fighting Cock, Small Fish, Tortoise and Wallowing Buffalo. Overnight: On-board
In the morning transfer to Halong Bay (approx 3 hours) for an overnight cruise. Halong Bay is one of Vietnam's most stunning natural wonders, with more than 3,000 islands rising from the emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin. Many of these uninhabited islets and outcrops have been given imaginative names by the locals, due to their shapes, including Wading Ox, Fighting Cock, Small Fish, Tortoise and Wallowing Buffalo. Overnight: On-board
Day 4 Return Hanoi, overnight train to Hue
Waking up surrounded by limestone peaks, hidden beaches and floating fishing villages we continue our cruise, arriving at the pier at noon. From Halong Bay we transfer to Hanoi where we will have time for sightseeing, visiting the highlights including the Temple of Literature, Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son temple. Transfer to the railway station to take the night train to Hue. The train from Hanoi to Hue is approx fourteen hours. We will be accommodated in sleeper cars with four berths per compartment. A sheet/blanket will be provided as bedding and we suggest that you bring a sleeping inner sheet or sarong. Toilets on the train are basic but functional. Please bring your own toilet paper and toiletries that you may require. You might also wish to bring some snacks. Overnight: On train
Waking up surrounded by limestone peaks, hidden beaches and floating fishing villages we continue our cruise, arriving at the pier at noon. From Halong Bay we transfer to Hanoi where we will have time for sightseeing, visiting the highlights including the Temple of Literature, Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son temple. Transfer to the railway station to take the night train to Hue. The train from Hanoi to Hue is approx fourteen hours. We will be accommodated in sleeper cars with four berths per compartment. A sheet/blanket will be provided as bedding and we suggest that you bring a sleeping inner sheet or sarong. Toilets on the train are basic but functional. Please bring your own toilet paper and toiletries that you may require. You might also wish to bring some snacks. Overnight: On train
Day 5 In Hue
We will arrive early this morning in Hue and transfer to our centrally located hotel. After breakfast we prepare for our first day cycling, we meet our crew who will be driving the support vehicles. One vehicle is our bus to carry our luggage and tired riders, the other for carrying our bikes. Before setting out we will receive a safety briefing and begin our first ride in Vietnam through the ancient capital of Hue. Hue is known for the magnificent architecture of its Royal tombs, pagodas and temples and for its picturesque setting on the Perfume River. Visit the old Imperial Citadel, the Forbidden Purple City, and the Imperial Museum. This afternoon discover ancient tombs of emperors past cycling to the eccentric Tu Ducs tomb located in a serene setting on the outskirts of town. Overnight: Hue Cycling Distance: 30km
We will arrive early this morning in Hue and transfer to our centrally located hotel. After breakfast we prepare for our first day cycling, we meet our crew who will be driving the support vehicles. One vehicle is our bus to carry our luggage and tired riders, the other for carrying our bikes. Before setting out we will receive a safety briefing and begin our first ride in Vietnam through the ancient capital of Hue. Hue is known for the magnificent architecture of its Royal tombs, pagodas and temples and for its picturesque setting on the Perfume River. Visit the old Imperial Citadel, the Forbidden Purple City, and the Imperial Museum. This afternoon discover ancient tombs of emperors past cycling to the eccentric Tu Ducs tomb located in a serene setting on the outskirts of town. Overnight: Hue Cycling Distance: 30km
Day 6 Hue to Hoi An
This morning we rise early and set out cycling on smaller paved roads passing traditional rice fields, small villages and fish farms until we reach Thuan An beach. This is a great opportunity to discover rural Vietnam and as the road is narrow and not accessible by vehicles there will be a motorbike following and providing support for the group. After we reach Phuoc Tuong Pass our vehicles transfer us to Lang Co beach to enjoy lunch, before continuing to Hai Van Pass for amazing views and photo opportunities. If the group would like to cycle further, we can ride along the relatively new coast road that runs parallel to the beach and into the charming historical city of Hoi An. In the evening enjoy a short walking tour through the old streets of Hoi An. Overnight: Hoi An Cycling distance: 30km (with an additional extra 40kms optional). The ride can be customised in length, as the support vehicle can be used at any time by tired riders. Cycling distance is approximately 30kms
This morning we rise early and set out cycling on smaller paved roads passing traditional rice fields, small villages and fish farms until we reach Thuan An beach. This is a great opportunity to discover rural Vietnam and as the road is narrow and not accessible by vehicles there will be a motorbike following and providing support for the group. After we reach Phuoc Tuong Pass our vehicles transfer us to Lang Co beach to enjoy lunch, before continuing to Hai Van Pass for amazing views and photo opportunities. If the group would like to cycle further, we can ride along the relatively new coast road that runs parallel to the beach and into the charming historical city of Hoi An. In the evening enjoy a short walking tour through the old streets of Hoi An. Overnight: Hoi An Cycling distance: 30km (with an additional extra 40kms optional). The ride can be customised in length, as the support vehicle can be used at any time by tired riders. Cycling distance is approximately 30kms
Day 7 In Hoi An
This morning enjoy a walking tour to explore the ancient heart of Hoi An, now a UNESCO World Heritage site. This ancient port town and was home to one of Southeast Asia’s major harbours and some parts of the town still look exactly as they did a century and a half ago! Visit the Japanese quarter linked to the Chinese neighbourhood by the famous Japanese Covered Bridge, constructed in 1593. Discover the many temples and assembly halls founded by the Chinese community. This afternoon, there is an optional bike ride with your guide to get up close and personal with Hoi An. Overnight: Hoi An Cycling distance: 30km
This morning enjoy a walking tour to explore the ancient heart of Hoi An, now a UNESCO World Heritage site. This ancient port town and was home to one of Southeast Asia’s major harbours and some parts of the town still look exactly as they did a century and a half ago! Visit the Japanese quarter linked to the Chinese neighbourhood by the famous Japanese Covered Bridge, constructed in 1593. Discover the many temples and assembly halls founded by the Chinese community. This afternoon, there is an optional bike ride with your guide to get up close and personal with Hoi An. Overnight: Hoi An Cycling distance: 30km
Day 8 Cycle to Quang Ngai
This morning we travel off the beaten track passing fishing villages and shrimp farms. We set out cycling on the back roads to Bach Dang local river boat pier. Board a river boat to cruise up to Thu Bon to discover the natural beauty of the Thu Bon River. After lunch, take a short bus ride through spectacular countryside to Saky fishing Port, My Khe beach and the better known hamlet of My Lai. My Lai site is in a small rural settlement, surrounded by simple thatched huts and quilted rice paddies. After visiting the simple memorial and museum from the Vietnam War we can either continue riding (depending on the time of day) or take our support vehicle to Quang Ngai where we stay overnight. Overnight: Quang Ngai Cycling distance: 30 - 60km. The ride can be customised in length, as the support vehicle can be used at any time by tired riders.
This morning we travel off the beaten track passing fishing villages and shrimp farms. We set out cycling on the back roads to Bach Dang local river boat pier. Board a river boat to cruise up to Thu Bon to discover the natural beauty of the Thu Bon River. After lunch, take a short bus ride through spectacular countryside to Saky fishing Port, My Khe beach and the better known hamlet of My Lai. My Lai site is in a small rural settlement, surrounded by simple thatched huts and quilted rice paddies. After visiting the simple memorial and museum from the Vietnam War we can either continue riding (depending on the time of day) or take our support vehicle to Quang Ngai where we stay overnight. Overnight: Quang Ngai Cycling distance: 30 - 60km. The ride can be customised in length, as the support vehicle can be used at any time by tired riders.
Day 9 Cycle to Kon Tum
Today is a more challenging as we leave Highway 1 and head inland towards Quang Nam. We will cycle only part of the way today and after lunch take a bus transfer to the top of Viloluk Pass (1000m) and from here cycle to down to the coast passing many remote villages and tropical forests along quiet and scenic roads. Overnight: Quang Nam Cycling distance: 40 - 70km. The ride can be customised in length, as the support vehicle can be used at any time by tired riders.
Today is a more challenging as we leave Highway 1 and head inland towards Quang Nam. We will cycle only part of the way today and after lunch take a bus transfer to the top of Viloluk Pass (1000m) and from here cycle to down to the coast passing many remote villages and tropical forests along quiet and scenic roads. Overnight: Quang Nam Cycling distance: 40 - 70km. The ride can be customised in length, as the support vehicle can be used at any time by tired riders.
Day 10 Cycle to Buon Ma Thuot
From Kontum, we journey by road to Chuse town. Cycle along back roads enjoying the scenery of large coffee, rubber and dragon fruit plantations as well as passing Ede and Giarai hill tribe villages. We bike under the shadow of the rubber trees that line the road until we reach the township of E Adrang. We then transfer by vehicle to Buon Me Thuat city-the largest town in the Western Highlands. Overnight: Buon Me Thuat Cycling distance: 35 - 65km. The ride can be customised in length, as the support vehicle can be used at any time by tired riders.
From Kontum, we journey by road to Chuse town. Cycle along back roads enjoying the scenery of large coffee, rubber and dragon fruit plantations as well as passing Ede and Giarai hill tribe villages. We bike under the shadow of the rubber trees that line the road until we reach the township of E Adrang. We then transfer by vehicle to Buon Me Thuat city-the largest town in the Western Highlands. Overnight: Buon Me Thuat Cycling distance: 35 - 65km. The ride can be customised in length, as the support vehicle can be used at any time by tired riders.
Day 11 Cycle To Nha Trang
Today we head from the mountains to the sea as we cycle to the coastal town of Nha Trang. Most of today’s cycle is downhill as you head away from the rainforest-covered plateau towards the coastal plain. Cycle through hilltribe hamlets and thick forests home to plentiful wildlife, including elephants. Stop for lunch and relax travelling the final stretch by vehicle soaking up the scenery of turquoise lagoons dotted with fishing boats. Tonight you may like to head out for a well-earned drink and a seafood feast at one of the beachfront restaurants and bars. Overnight in Nha Trang Cycling distance: 60 - 90km. The ride can be customised in length, as the support vehicle can be used at any time by tired riders.
Today we head from the mountains to the sea as we cycle to the coastal town of Nha Trang. Most of today’s cycle is downhill as you head away from the rainforest-covered plateau towards the coastal plain. Cycle through hilltribe hamlets and thick forests home to plentiful wildlife, including elephants. Stop for lunch and relax travelling the final stretch by vehicle soaking up the scenery of turquoise lagoons dotted with fishing boats. Tonight you may like to head out for a well-earned drink and a seafood feast at one of the beachfront restaurants and bars. Overnight in Nha Trang Cycling distance: 60 - 90km. The ride can be customised in length, as the support vehicle can be used at any time by tired riders.
Day 12 Nha Trang boat ride
Today is a cycle-free day to enjoy the clear blue waters and relaxed ambiance of Nha Trang. We take an excursion by local boat exploring the nearby islands for a beach sojourn in the shade of coconut palms or enjoy snorkelling from the boat. You can also enjoy a relaxing massage, a cooling swim in the pristine waters or cool beer by the sea. A fresh seafood lunch is also available on the boat. Nha Trang also offers a number of sights of historical or spiritual significance, which can be explored at your leisure in the afternoon. Overnight in Nha Trang
Today is a cycle-free day to enjoy the clear blue waters and relaxed ambiance of Nha Trang. We take an excursion by local boat exploring the nearby islands for a beach sojourn in the shade of coconut palms or enjoy snorkelling from the boat. You can also enjoy a relaxing massage, a cooling swim in the pristine waters or cool beer by the sea. A fresh seafood lunch is also available on the boat. Nha Trang also offers a number of sights of historical or spiritual significance, which can be explored at your leisure in the afternoon. Overnight in Nha Trang
Day 13 Fly to Ho Chi Minh City
After breakfast, depending on flight schedules, there may be time to explore more of Nha Trang, visit near by islands, relax by the clear blue waters or indulge in a relaxing massage (after all you deserve it!) We then transfer to the airport for our flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Overnight: Ho Chi Minh City
After breakfast, depending on flight schedules, there may be time to explore more of Nha Trang, visit near by islands, relax by the clear blue waters or indulge in a relaxing massage (after all you deserve it!) We then transfer to the airport for our flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Overnight: Ho Chi Minh City
Day 14 Visit Cu Chi tunnels in morning, afternoon sightseeing
This morning, we travel to the remarkable Cu Chi tunnels, home to 5,000 VC troops during the Vietnam/U.S. War. They are situated outside of the city; about a 2-hour drive one way. We will leave early this morning to be back in Ho Chi Minh in the early afternoon. We walk through the heart of the city past some of Ho Chi Minh's famous sites; the French colonial Town Hall, the Rex Hotel, Notre Dame Cathedral, the former U.S. embassy, the President's Palace (also known as the Reunification Palace) and make an optional visit to the War Crimes Museum. Tonight we join our Vietnamese guide for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight: Ho Chi Minh City
This morning, we travel to the remarkable Cu Chi tunnels, home to 5,000 VC troops during the Vietnam/U.S. War. They are situated outside of the city; about a 2-hour drive one way. We will leave early this morning to be back in Ho Chi Minh in the early afternoon. We walk through the heart of the city past some of Ho Chi Minh's famous sites; the French colonial Town Hall, the Rex Hotel, Notre Dame Cathedral, the former U.S. embassy, the President's Palace (also known as the Reunification Palace) and make an optional visit to the War Crimes Museum. Tonight we join our Vietnamese guide for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight: Ho Chi Minh City
Day 15 Trip concludes in Ho Chi Minh City
The trip will conclude after breakfast. If you are departing Ho Chi Minh City today, transfer to the airport.
The trip will conclude after breakfast. If you are departing Ho Chi Minh City today, transfer to the airport.
