Enchanting, exotic, and fast becoming the most popular destination in Southeast Asia, Vietnam features lush countryside, colorful village markets, dramatic beach coastline and friendly, engaging people. Whether cycling along rice paddies, walking ancient trails, or on the water visiting floating markets, our trip offers the best of this fascinating country.
Only Great Explorations:
Please note: we offer daily ‘non-cycling’ options for those who choose not to ride.
Hanoi, Vietnam
Day 1
Huế, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam
Days 2+3
Hoi An
Days 4+5
Phan Rang–Tháp Chàm, Ninh Thuận, Vietnam
Days 6+7
Azerai Ke Ga Bay, Hon Lan Commune, Kê Gà, Hàm Thuận Nam District, Bình Thuận, Vietnam
Days 8+9
Saigon, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
Days 10+11
Angkor Wat, Krong Siem Reap, Siem Reap Province, Cambodia
Days 12+13
Hạ Long Bay, Tuần Châu, Vietnam
Days -2+-1
| 2026 | 2027 |
|---|---|
| Jan 16-25 | Jan 15-24 |
| Jan 26-Feb 4 | Jan 25-Feb 3 |
| Feb 6-15 | Feb 15-24 |
| Feb 16-25 | Mar 5-14 |
| Mar 6-15 | Mar 15-24 |
| Mar 16-25 | Dec 3-12 |
| Dec 4-13 | Dec 13-22 |
| Dec 14-23 |
Trip can start at any date, although we recommend avoiding travel during Tết. Custom trips also available. Call or email for details.
Trip Size
Total Days
Arrive/Depart
Activity LevelEasy-going / Moderate
30-50 km daily (add-on options available on some days)
Van supported
TerrainModerate with some minor hills
CostLand Cost
US $5300
Includes 9B/6L/8D
Includes domestic flights from Hanoi to Hue and from Da Nang to Nha Trang
Single Supplement
US $1350
Bike Rentals
Hybrid Bikes: US $500
E-Bikes*: US $780
Pre-trip Extension
Halong Bay
US $995
Single Supplement: US $395
Includes 2N/2D
Post-trip Extensions
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
US $795
Single Supplement: US $395
Includes 2N/2D
Angkor Wat* (Cambodia)
US $795
Single Supplement: US $395
Includes 2N/2D
*Additional Airfare Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap: US $320
Additional Temple Pass: US $37 per day to be paid in person, on arrival
*E-bikes are generally available but are on an ‘on request basis ‘ and will be confirmed on receipt of your booking registration. E-bikes provided are the best rentals available in the region. Our regular fleet of hybrid and race bikes are fun to ride and light and fast, but if having an e-bike will make your trip, we’ll do our best to provide. E-bike rentals are non-refundable.
Getting There
Fly into Hanoi, you can take a taxi from the airport or arrange for a private transfer through the hotel. We meet at 7 p.m. before going to dinner on the first day.
Pre-trip Extension in Halong Bay
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Halong Bay is a marvel often described as the eighth wonder of the world. This archipelago is an ideal introduction to the country and one that will not be soon forgotten. Your arrival night hotel at the 5-star Metropole in Hanoi is included. Next morning, you will shuttle to the coast where you will board a traditional Chinese “junk” vessel to explore the over 2,000 limestone islands. Cruising through Halong Bay, there are optional stops where you can hike through cathedral caves and visit remote fishing villages with local school children who delight in rowing us through their ‘community on water’. Our comfortable junk boasts large private cabins. You will arrive back to Hanoi by 2 p.m., and have time for a walk to visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, museum and stilt house, and Hoan Kiem Lake district.
What is included:
Hanoi
Your arrival night hotel is included in the trip at the luxurious Sofitel Legend Metropole in the French Quarter; we have an optional 4 p.m. meeting for a bicycle rickshaw tour and then meet again at 7 p.m. in the Metropole lobby and head to dinner at an atmospheric restaurant.
Hue
On the morning of Day 2, we depart for the airport to fly to Hue on a morning flight. Arriving to Hue, we begin cycling a pleasant route through the countryside on quiet roads passing multiple temples and through rice paddies. We visit Hue’s moated Citadel, a surreal world of deserted gardens and ceremonial halls. Constructed for the Emperor in 1804, it contained the famed Imperial Forbidden City, which was reserved for the private life of the emperor, eunuch servants and royal concubines. Our hotel is the 5-star Pilgrimage Village with large swimming pool. Over welcome drinks at the bar in our hotel, our guide will give a cultural talk and overview of the history of Vietnam on this evening, before dinner.
Distance: 30 km; 90 m gain
Hue
Consider starting the day with a yoga class before breakfast (included). After breakfast cycle from the Imperial City through more countryside, finishing with a visit to meet a famed Hue historian and conservationist, whose family’s ancestry has links to a former emperor; a visit to his home – the former residence of a Nguyen Dynasty princess – will be a highlight. Afterwards, we boat down the Perfume River enjoying lunch to visit the majestic tomb of Minh Mang. For anyone that would like an add-on ride, the rolling ride to the hotel is exquisite.
Distance: 30 km; 180 m gain; Add-on option: 13 km; 130 m gain
Hoi An
Departing Hue, we’ll ride along Vietnam’s Central coastline with an optional climb over Hai Van Pass at 460 meters (the descent is breathtaking). In Hoi An, we stay at the Anantara Hoi An Resort, ideally situated at the doorstep to this Unesco World Heritage listed village. With its candle-lanterns, historical homes and quaint riverside setting, Hoi An is one of our favorite villages in Vietnam. Our guide will give a walking tour of the town finishing at a renowned tailor where suits/dresses are made to measure in less than 24 hours.
Distance: 49 km; 200 m gain; Add-on option: 23 km; 745 m gain
Hoi An
Next day, we cycle from the hotel through the flower and vegetable gardens and lush countryside. Enjoy more of Hoi An – late afternoon, we will take you to the museum/gallery of the French photographer Rehahn, that features an exhibition with information, portraits, traditional costumes and artifacts of all 54 of the officially recognized ethnic groups in Vietnam. Rehahn’s photography is quite remarkable. We finish the day with a cooking course with one of the region’s top chefs. It will be one of your best meals in Vietnam!
Distance: 44 km; 125 m gain
Phan Rang
After a flight to the bustling coastal resort city of Nha Trang, we will cycle an exquisite coastal route south along a stunning coastline with minimal traffic. There are some rolling hills on this ride, but feel free to jump in the support van at any time should you wish. The beaches along this section are popular for kite surfing and water sports. Arrive to Hoan My Resort, a newly opened hotel with infinity pool on a lovely stretch of beach. We will dine in the hotel restaurant on this night.
Distance: up to 60 km; 730 m gain
Phan Rang
This easy-going loop ride has several interesting stops along the way including visits to a weaving co-op, pottery atelier and an impressive Cham Hindu temple complex from the 13th century, built to honour of King Po Klaung Garai, who ruled Panduranga from 1151 to 1205. Stop for lunch on the way back, or have lunch back at the hotel around the infinity pool. We will head out to a fun local restaurant for dinner.
Distance: up to 50km; 180 m gain
Ke Ga Bay
We ride along the coast again with some rolling hills to Thon La Nghie. The pavement is great and very little traffic. There are lots of viewpoints along the way and after a short shuttle, we stop for lunch at a lovely resort with swim beach. We then transfer south to Ke Ga Bay and the luxurious Azerai Ke Ga. There is an add-on ride to ride the last km to the hotel.
Distance: up to 45 km; 450 m gain
Add-on: up to 27km; 200 m gain
Ke Ga Bay
Start the day with yoga or Tai Chi and enjoy a leisurely breakfast overlooking Ke Ga Bay. Today’s ride passes through several dragon fruit plantations where we learn about this fascinating fruit. Dragon fruit is also known as strawberry pear and accounts for up to 30% of Vietnam’s fruit exports by value. The ride is on quiet roads and trails through interesting countryside. Stop after 40km or ride back to the hotel as you wish. There are remarkable sand dunes throughout this region. Back at the hotel, enjoy a massage at the spa, walk the beach or relax poolside. We’ll gather before dinner for drinks and then enjoy a banquet dinner in this sublime setting.
Distance: 41-60 km; up to 335 m gain
Depart
After breakfast, we will provide a transfer to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) by noon, please, do not book flights before 2 p.m. You can transfer directly to the airport or to Hotel Des Arts if you have booked the Ho Chi Minh Extension, you will have an afternoon tour starting at 2 p.m.
Post-trip Extension in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
Stay at the historic Hotel des Arts, in the heart of Saigon’s shopping and dining districts. On your second day, visit the infamous Cu Chi tunnels north of HCMC and after lunch the War Museum and other sites. We provide lots of options for dinner.
What is included:
Post-trip Extension in Angkor Wat
Fly to Siem Reap, Cambodia for two days of exploring the World Heritage Site of Angkor Wat with local guide. You will be met on arrival and shuttled to Viroth’s Villa, an intimate and luxurious stay in the heart of Siem Reap. Our local guide will take you to see the most important sites including Angkor Thom, Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm, and other temples that are among the most incredible wonders in the world.
What is included:
Note, the flight from Saigon to Siem Reap (US $320) and the one-day temple pass (US $37) are additional. We will add the cost of the flight to your invoice with us and you can pay for the temple pass in person, on arrival.
Depart
After breakfast, you may depart at your leisure for onward travel. If doing the Angkor Wat Extension, most people book their flights to arrive to Hanoi and depart from Siem Reap – there is no need to go back to Ho Chi Minh if doing this Extension.
This French colonial-style hotel has stood proudly since 1901 and is thoroughly steeped in historic grandeur. Located in the center of Hanoi, the charming Metropole blends the hospitality of the Vietnamese people with true European luxury. As a Sofitel property, it has all of the expected amenities of a hotel in this class.
This charming hotel, located in an updated rustic village setting away from the bustle of town, offers a harmonious balance between the natural environment and local culture. Guest rooms are in stylish, upscale bungalows and villas. The richly appointed Verdana Spa on site offers massage services and a variety of natural treatments.
This hotel's charming French colonial exterior is complimented by the eclectic interior design blending elements of French, Japanese, Chinese and Dutch cultures which have influenced Hoi An over the last 4 centuries. Located on the Thu Bon River, this spa resort is right on the doorstep of Hoi An's colorful and bustling Ancient Town.
Located on a splendid beach south of Phan Rang, this newly opened resort (2021) boasts a lovely infinity pool, spa, restaurant and amenities. Ideally located between Nha Trang and Ke Ga Bay allows us to access terrific cycling.
Azerai Ke Ga Bay is set amongst 4.5 hectares of verdant gardens on a sweeping five-kilometre white sand beach. The resort is framed to the east by Hon Ba Island with its historic lighthouse and to the west by soaring sand dunes. The infinity pool makes this property one of our favourites in SE Asia.
This 5-star boutique hotel combines the classical charm of “Indochine Française” with a sense of timeless chic. It almost resembles an art museum with its collection of paintings and antiques. The hotel offers a restaurant, cafe, rooftop bar, a spa and rooftop pool. Alternate is the 5-star Caravelle Hotel.
"More of a boutique hotel than a villa this property is small but perfectly formed. Rooms with private balconies are decorated in pop colours and include modern bathrooms with rainfall showers. There is a pleasant saltwater pool, lounge areas and spa. Dining is simple but delicious Khmer dishes." - THG
Optional upgrade to Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor for a supplement.*
As the guide book says, “for luxury, atmosphere and convenience, there is no better choice in Siem Reap… guest rooms are large, with classic French doors and windows, tiled entries, fine furnishings… the courtyard pool is large and inviting.”
Tour Reviews
“We had a wonderful time! This trip will be fondly remembered for many years. This was the best trip we have been on so far.”
“All hotels were excellent! All unique and perfect in the selected area’s. Not one bad meal on the whole trip! Van support was excellent! Very well organized trip! Beautiful country, excellent food, friendly people. Great mix of biking and culture. Fun filled adventure especially with the extensions. Definitely one for the bucket list!!”
“Great Trip, we enjoyed discovering Vietnam. Great to have such an attentive crew looking after the equipment Vietnam , wow, what an experience! Halong Bay to Ho Chi Minh, a terrific combination of seeing the sites, great accommodation, challenging rides in a beautiful country interacting with truly engaging people. Thank you for exceeding our expectations on this trip, our third adventure with Great Explorations.”
“Our expectations were exceeded due to the cultural immersion, impeccable arrangements, professionalism of Tam and his team, culinary experiences etc. Most exciting to be able to visit Hanoi, HaLong, Hue, Hoi An, Da Nang and Nha Trang and Dalat as well as Saigon in the one trip. Exceptionally well chosen itinerary.”
“We thoroughly enjoyed our first trip to Asia with Great Explorations. Guides were exceptional in giving us an insiders tour customized for our group and the day before us.”
“The quiet back country through the rice fields was what I enjoyed. I knew if I couldn’t keep up, there would be a back up van which is good service. I also really appreciated the drivers stopping and directing us when needed. I also appreciated the guides, one in front and one behind to ensure safety.”
“It was spectacular. This was a complicated trip. There were 4 flights between Hanoi and Siem Reap not to mention the numerous transfers/ bikes to travel such distances with 8 people. All guides were professionals: Tam and Sebastian were outstanding, well informed, attendent, kept us safe and fun! The drivers and support staff also were amazing. The extension guides reliable / knowledgeable and flexble. The accomodation provided a new experience at each stop and was fantastic. We may have had the worst weather we have ever encountered and what a great time we had. Everyone loved the dalat mountain climb ride ( some opted for the van due to weather ) and the big downhill ride was fabulous!”
“Great guides, support team. Excellent hotels/ restaurants. All transportation well organized!”
“Very very happy with our guide Tam. He was very knowledgeable, approachable and very organized. He was great.”
“We were very pleased with the trip. It had a great variety of rides, hotels, places to visit and the food was always very good. So glad I did this trip the way we did. Seeing Vietnam on a bike certainly gives a good overall impression of the country. The diversity of the cities and rides added to the enjoyment of the trip.”
“A well organized, fun trip. It was a truly amazing experience.”
“Lovely hotels, great country, lovely people.”
“The highlight of our trip was our guide, Tam and his team. Each city was quite different and made good sense for us to visit so we loved the itinerary. Also loved the fact that the trip was as much about history and culture of Vietnam as it was about the ride. Appreciated seeing the country from Hanoi all the way to Saigon via the highlands, all such very different regions.”
“It was an excellent trip overall. The travel companions and guides were excellent. Halong Bay was awesome. Not to be missed!”
“Tam is your saving grace period without him you would not get the level of service and knowledge possible. The hotels were great. Vans were clean and pretty new.”
“Ha Long Bay and Angkor Wat exceeded expectations. Length of Ha Long extension was perfect. Dalat & Hoi An were great. Coffee plantation outside of Dalat was very cool. (Coffee was superb.) Hanoi by Tuk Tuk was fun!”
“Hue was our favorite (the visit to the descendant of the Mandarin’s home), but all the places were interesting in their own way. All hotels were fabulous. The daily distances and level of difficulty was perfect for us.”
“The accomodation, food and bike routes were exceptional. Hotel in Hue was our favorite: chill vibe and nice layout of the grounds. Loved the cooking class in Hoi An. The routes changed on us a few times, however the guides were great in pointing us in the right direction. Van and mechanical support were outstanding. Loved the variety of towns and cities – a great overview of Vietnam. The food was exceptional!”
“The hotel meals and planned stops were great and the food amazing.The cooking course was great. Visit to home in Hue was fantastic. The region was a great mix of different aspects of a very diverse country. The session Tam did the one evening over dinner was a geography and history lesson with a q+a – it was awesome.”
“All was wonderful — Tam particularly great, local support team superb, and a wonderful group of fellow travelers. Loved all the hotels. Each was unique and beautiful in a different way. Enjoyed the variety as well. The van support was exceptional. Local staff were amazing. Seeing and experiencing so much of Vietnam!”
“An absolutely incredible trip! Probably the best travel experience I’ve ever had! The locals, our tour guides, Tam and Adrien, the culture, food, van support, bike mechanics and the new cycling friends I met in our group. The whole thing was magical. Everyone in our group had the same lovely mindset… adventure and fun! Fabulous hotels! You can tell that Great Explorations did a top notch job of planning this adventure.”
“Great way to see the country. Great cross section of regions and locales. Cooking class-food was amazing. Also breakfast at Sofitel. Nice to have bikes ready to go each day. Bonus to have water bottles filled up for each ride. I loved seeing countries that I had always wanted to see. Making new and wonderful friends. It was a fantastic group of people. Each and every person was a pleasure to meet and spend time with.”
“Really outstanding, unforgettable experience. Probably the best trip I’ve ever taken. Amenities were first rate and the country itself was incredible. ALL hotels—including those on the extension—were of the highest quality. The Dalat Palace was a bit long in the tooth but they had that karaoke bar! The Japanese place in Hoi An was incredible. Loved the BBQ in Nha Trang! Loved the cooking class in Hoi An. Never had so much support on a ride. Super friendly guys who always greeted you with cold water and a smile. What a great group of people!”
“Top drawer in everything. Bikes, accommodations, guides, as well as assistance with every and all issues arising before and during the trip. All events were very professional, informative and interesting. I enjoyed all if the hotels. All offered something different – great smorgasbord. Loved that part. They went beyond to please everyone. Kept us safe and on track.”
“Tam was an exceptional guide. Professional, prepared, knowledgeable, and all around great guy. I enjoyed the historical perspective with many of the stops along the way. Excellent bikes. The entire trip was extremely well organized as expected from the friend recommendations. Loved Vietnam and the people.”
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