Vietnam & Cambodia
Vietnam, Cambodia Bike + Boat Tours
Cycle in the far east of Asia from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City
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Tour Type
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Skill Level
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Length15 days
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Prices from€3634 Rates
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Overview
This bike and boat tour in Eastern Asia uncovers the hidden beauty of Vietnam, a unique country blessed with astonishing beauty: soaring mountains, a magnificent coastline, and pristine waters.
Nothing can prepare you for the beauty of Halong Bay and its 2000 limestone karsts. You will have an opportunity to explore this rocky, fairytale world with this unique landscape by bike and kayak. Admire the lush green rice fields, meet the friendly water buffaloes, visit colorful temples and pagodas, and let the emerald-green waters of the South China Sea and the incredible cave formations enchant you.
While biking in Vietnam, you will explore the impressive monuments of the Vietnamese emperors as well as the historic town of Hoi An - a World Heritage site - and, in South Vietnam, the expansive water labyrinth of the Mekong Delta.
Highlights
- The famous Ha Long Bay
- The Mekong Delta
- The emerald green waters of the South China Sea
- Historical town of Hoi An
- The diverse cuisine of the region
This Vietnam cycling holiday is sure to satisfy the adventure seeker in everyone!
Take a look at our full list of tours in Vietnam.
For more travel inspiration, read our blog post about biking in Asia.
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Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi
Day 2: Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Hoa Lu - Tam Coc, 14 mi. + 6 mi. (22 km + 10k m)
Day 3: Tam Coc - Ha Long Bay
Day 4: Ha Long Bay - Viet Hai Village (Cat Ba Island), 12 mi. (18 km)
Day 5: Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay (Kayak-day)
Day 6: Cát Bà Island - Hai Phong - Hôi An
Day 7: Hôi An - Cycle to Tra Que Vegetable Village, 11 mi. (17 km)
Day 8: Hôi An
Day 9: Hoi An - Hue, 16 mi. (25 km)
Day 10: Hué countryside, 10 mi. (16 km)
Day 11: Huế – Hồ Chí Minh City - My Tho - Cái Be, 16 - 19 mi (25 - 30 km)
Day 12: Mekong Delta - Cái Bè - Vĩnh Long and Cần Thơ, 11 - 12 mi (17- 20 km)
Day 13: Cần Thơ - Hồ Chí Minh City
Day 14: Ho Chi Minh City
Day 15: DepartureAll distances are approximate. The itinerary is subject to change sometimes without prior notice. Some waterways may be subject to occasional closures due to drought, storms, floods, canal or lock repairs, or other unforeseen circumstances that make navigation unsafe or impossible. The captain reserves the right to make any changes deemed necessary.
Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi
Arrival at Hanoi Airport. A shuttle bus takes you to your hotel in the heart of the old quarter of Hanoi. Despite the three million inhabitants, Hanoi offers a rural and traditional atmosphere. The historic old town district is considered one of the best-preserved in Southeast Asia. The colorful and bustling streets contribute to the Asian flair. Take a walk through the streets and in the afternoon visit the famous water puppet theater, a traditional Vietnamese form of art.
Today, get to know your fellow travelers during dinner. Overnight stay at the hotel. (D)Day 2: Hanoi - Ninh Binh (Van Long) - Hoa Lu - Tam Coc, 14 mi. + 6 mi. (22 km + 10 km)
By shuttle bus, you are transferred in the direction of the rural province of Ninh Binh, from which you begin your first cycling tour along with vibrant green rice fields to Hoa Lu, the former capital of Vietnam. After exploring the fascinating historical site with its well-preserved relics of past dynasties, you continue pedaling through Vietnam's most spectacular landscapes. Along the way, you stop in the quaint village of Trang An Farm, where you are able to try some local specialties for lunch. After lunch, you continue by bike for a few kilometers to Tam Coc with the most spectacular view of limestone karst peaks looming out of serene rice paddies. It is here you will leave your bikes and board a traditional rowboat, taking you to the heart of a hidden valley. The last activity for today is a visit to a local bird sanctuary. Every evening, the flock of birds returning to their nests is a spectacular sight. Overnight stay at the hotel in Tam Coc. (B, L, D)Day 3: Tam Coc - Ha Long Bay
After breakfast, we visit a hidden valley nestled in a dramatic rocky landscape and home to a Buddhist temple. Afterward, we take a four-hour transfer to Ha Long Bay, where we board a junk (a traditional wooden boat) and enjoy our lunch. Your first voyage on the boat will be through the impressive island world of Ha Long Bay with its bizarre rock formations. In the afternoon, there is an opportunity to visit one of the numerous caves, which were formed over the course of the millennia. Let your imagination run wild in the formations of stalagmites and stalactites, as well as the crudely shaped cavern walls, where creative thinking will bring the subterranean chambers to life. In the afternoon, you are able to take part in a guided kayak tour of a local lagoon around which, with a bit of luck, you will be able to see some wild monkeys at play. You spend the night anchored here. (B, L, D)Day 4: Ha Long Bay - Viet Hai Village (Cat Ba Island), 12 mi. (18 km)
After breakfast, you will cruise, via a smaller boat, to the national park of Cat Ba Island. On arrival, you will begin your cycling tour to a small tribal village of the Việt Hải minority. You can then park your bike and enjoy a guided walk through the protected old-growth forest where wild, unspoiled nature rules. The destination is the highest peak of the island, which, on a good day, offers breathtaking views over the island and out to Hạ Long Bay. You will hop back onto the boat and cruise east of Bo Hon Island to the so-called ‘Virgin Cave’ (Trinh Nu Cave). A visit to this cave combines the incredible beauty of Halong Bay with the folklore of Vietnamese heritage. Dinner will be enjoyed, followed by an overnight on the ship. (B, L, D)Day 5: Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay (Kayak-day)
This morning, you disembark the Junk with your baggage and take a transfer boat to Lan Ha Bay. In the afternoon, you are able to take part in a guided kayak tour of a local lagoon around which, with a bit of luck, you will be able to see some wild monkeys that live on steep rocks with lush vegetation. Occasionally, their curiosity will bring them down to the shore. Today’s beach destination is beautiful beyond imagination. After lunch and a lengthy relaxing swim break in the emerald green waters, your kayak tour will take you past floating houses to Cat Ba, the next destination. A short transfer takes you to a beautiful resort, where the evening can be enjoyed on the hotel’s very own sandy beach or at the pool. (B, L, D)Day 6: Cát Bà Island - Hai Phong - Hôi An
After a morning visit to the vibrant Cat Ba market, you can enjoy a free morning by the beach, as you will have a late hotel checkout until 2:00 pm. A transfer will then take you to Hai Phong / Hanoi Airport for a late afternoon flight to Danang. Dinner and overnight will be enjoyed in a hotel in Hội An. Note: in the event the original flight to Danang (from Hai Phong) is canceled or changed, we will transfer guests to Hanoi to catch a connecting flight. (B, L, D)Day 7: Hôi An - Cycle to Tra Que Vegetable Village, 11 mi. (17 km)
Today you have the opportunity to experience the everyday life and work of the local farmers. After breakfast, you will ride through the quiet countryside of Hội An towards Tra Que Village. The name of the area originates from a sweet-scented vegetable often used by the locals to spice up their meals: a totally new and foreign specialty! You will participate in preparing a meal with your host, who will familiarise you with the exotic ingredients. The afternoon can be spent as you wish: a stroll through the picturesque old town or a relaxing afternoon swim at the white beach of Cửa Đại or at An Bang Beach. Overnight stay at a hotel in Hội An. (B, L)Day 8: Hôi An
You have the full day to explore (on foot) the sights and sounds of Hội An. Its narrow streets, lantern-lit storefronts, and fusion of various styles of traditional Asian architecture give it a charming feel. Two of the city’s main specialties are clothing and food. Also, don't miss visiting the Japanese Bridge and Quan Cong Temple. In the afternoon, you can enjoy all the benefits of your luxurious hotel resort and end the day at the palm tree-shaded pool. Overnight at the Hotel in Hội An. (B, L)Day 9: Hoi An - Hue, 16 mi. (25 km)
After breakfast, check out and head toward the former imperial city of Huế, crossing the scenic Cloud Pass—the natural divide between North and South Vietnam. Following a stop and lunch at Lăng Cô Beach, you can choose to cycle part or all of the coastal route to Thuan An Beach, or ride in the bus. Weather permitting, pause for a refreshing swim before continuing to Huế. After checking in, enjoy the evening at leisure to explore the city. Overnight in Huế. (B, L)Day 10: Hué countryside, 10 mi. (16 km)
Today is dedicated to the former imperial city of Huế, nestled among hills and rice fields along the Perfume River. Considered the spiritual heart of Vietnam, the area is home to more than 300 temples and pagodas. After breakfast, enjoy a gentle ride to Thanh Thuy Village. Following time to explore its unique architecture, temples, and bridges, cycle back to Huế for lunch before touring the Imperial Citadel and its “Forbidden Purple City,” once reserved for Nguyen emperors. The evening is free to discover Huế’s vibrant center at your own pace. (B, L)Day 11: Huế – Hồ Chí Minh City - My Tho - Cái Be, 16 - 19 mi (25 - 30 km)
After breakfast, you'll board a morning flight to Hồ Chí Minh City, followed by a transfer to Mỹ Tho, long known as the traditional gateway to the Mekong Delta and famous for its fruit orchards and peaceful canals. After lunch, the cycling journey begins toward Vinh Long, the provincial capital set between two main branches of the Mekong River. This region is part of one of the world’s most productive agricultural zones, and along the ride to Cái Bè, the route passes rice fields and tropical gardens. Upon reaching Cái Bè, renowned for its historic floating market, rice paper, and coconut candy production, a small boat carries you to a nearby island where the overnight resort is located. Dinner is served at the resort, surrounded by the tranquil rhythms of delta life. (B, L, D)Day 12: Mekong Delta - Cái Bè - Vĩnh Long and Cần Thơ, 11 - 12 mi (17- 20 km)
After breakfast, the day begins with a leisurely cycle around the island, following palm-shaded paths that wind past small farms and riverside villages. The Mekong’s islands are known for their fertile soil, which supports a remarkable variety of tropical fruits such as rambutan, longan, and mangosteen. After returning to the lodge for lunch, the journey continues by boat to Vinh Long, an area famous for its network of canals and traditional family-run workshops producing brick, pottery, and rice paper. Those who wish may take an additional short bike ride to explore more of the region’s countryside before transferring to Can Tho. As the largest city in the Mekong Delta, Can Tho is known for its waterfront and its cultural importance as the hub of commerce and river life. After checking in at the hotel, there is time to unwind before enjoying dinner at a riverside restaurant. (B, L, D)Day 13: Cần Thơ - Hồ Chí Minh City
After breakfast, you will take a small private boat to Cai Rhang, one of the busiest floating markets in Southeast Asia. Here you’ll capture some excellent photos of the vibrant colors and culture on the river. After lunch, a shuttle then takes you back to Hò Chí Minh City, where you will overnight. (B, L)Day 14: Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon, is the Boomtown and the modern center of Vietnam. On a guided city tour, you will learn about the growing megacity, the town hall, the cathedral Notre Dame - a stunningly massive red-brick edifice with twin spires, the main post office, and other important sights which characterize the city’s history. Your day could end, if you would like, shopping with the crowds in the Benh Thanh Market. You will enjoy a farewell dinner this evening with your fellow passengers and all travel guides. Overnight stay at the hotel in Ho Chi Minh City (B, L, D)Day 15: Departure
Departure after breakfast or prolongation in Ho Chi Minh City or Siem Reap. (B)On account of unpredictable wind and weather conditions as well as organizational requirements, we reserve the right to change routes with no advance notice. All distances are approximate.
B = Breakfast
L = Lunch
D = DinnerBe sure to check out all of our featured bike and boat tours, or our full list of bicycle tours.
Staying a bit longer in Hanoi is always rewarding. Explore its bustling boulevards, tranquil lakes, and timeless temples—this enchanting city casts its spell in no time.
*Please note that this program is only available BEFORE your Vietnam tour.
Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi
Upon arrival at Hanoi Airport, a transfer bus will take you to your hotel in the heart of the Old Quarter. After dropping off your luggage, feel free to wander the vibrant streets and soak in the city’s unique atmosphere. This first evening is yours to enjoy Hanoi’s incredible food scene—from refined Vietnamese and French dishes to delicious street-food classics, all within walking distance.Accommodation: Boutique hotel in the historic center
Day 2 (morning): Ho Chí Minh Mausoleum
At 8 am, after breakfast, your guide and driver will take you on a tour of Hanoi’s key highlights. You’ll trace the life of Vietnam’s beloved leader, Ho Chi Minh—known fondly as “Uncle Ho.” Visit the Ho Chi Minh Museum, his simple former residence, and the impressive mausoleum where he now rests, despite his wish for a modest burial.Day 2 (midday): Temple of Literature
Next, visit the famous One Pillar Pagoda and the historic Temple of Literature. Following lunch, the Museum of Ethnology offers insight into Vietnam’s many ethnic groups and their traditions.Day 2 (afternoon): Historic Center
After exploring Ngoc Son and Ba Kieu Temples, enjoy a guided stroll through the lively Old Quarter with its 1,000+ traditional houses, ending at Dong Xuan Market. Back at the hotel, meet fellow travelers at 5 pm for a brief intro talk and dinner.Siem Reap and Angkor Wat Extension
The sprawling temple complex of Angkor Wat is a breathtaking marvel. Adding a visit as part of your Vietnam journey is an experience not to be missed. This four-day extension program includes three nights in Siem Reap, guided cycling tours, scenic hikes, and a memorable visit to the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor Wat.
*Please note that this extension is only available at the END of your tour.
Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City - Siem Reap & bike tour, 12 mi (20 km)
Upon arrival at Siem Reap Airport, your guide will greet you and take you to the Wat Thmey Memorial (Killing Fields) to honor the victims of Cambodia’s past. You’ll then visit the APOPO Visitor Center to see the remarkable “hero rats” at work—and even hold one if you like. After lunch at a local restaurant, check in at your hotel before setting out on a relaxed bike ride through the quiet northwest side of the city. As you pedal along small village paths, you’ll glimpse everyday life and enjoy a beautiful sunset before returning to the hotel. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner paired with a traditional Apsara dance performance. Overnight in Siem Reap.Sample accommodation: Lynnaya Urban River Resort & Spa
Day 2: Siem Reap - Angkor Wat Temple, 22 mi (35 km)
Begin your day cycling to the temples around Siem Reap. The first stop is Ta Prohm, famously known as the "jungle temple," where ancient ruins are intertwined with massive tree roots. The journey continues to Bayon Temple, the twin temples of Thommanom and Chau Say Tevoda, the Victory Gate, the Terrace of the Leper King, and the Terrace of Elephants. After a picnic near the renowned Angkor Wat temple, you'll ride to Phnom Bakheng to experience a spectacular sunset.Sample accommodation: Lynnaya Urban River Resort & Spa
Day 3: Siem Reap - Phnom Kulen - Siem Reap, 31 mi. (50 km)
Following breakfast, set out on a bike ride to Phnom Kulen. Along the dirt road, you’ll pass temples and monasteries, eventually reaching Rattanak Tey Pagoda. From there, explore Phnom Kulen on foot, traversing trails across the mountain and enjoying stunning views along the way. Upon arrival, take time for a picnic and a refreshing swim at a nearby waterfall. Later, return to the pagoda for your transfer back to Siem Reap.Sample accommodation: Lynnaya Urban River Resort & Spa
Day 4: Departure from Siem Reap
After breakfast, enjoy some free time before your transfer to the airport. -
Map
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Boats & Bikes
12 nights of your tour will be spent in very good 3-4 star hotels in Hanoi, Tam Coc, on Cát Bà Island, in Hue, Cái Bè, Cần Thơ, Hoi An, and Hồ Chí Minh City. 2 nights will be spent on board a Vietnamese Junk in Ha Long Bay.
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Vietnamese Junks
Premium Class Boat
Carved dragon heads decorate the prow of the Junks in the Ha Long and Bai Tu Bay. Dragons belong to the circle of four sacred animals of Vietnam and they proudly guide the traditional wooden boats through the fairytale cliffs of the South China Sea. It is easy to feel at home on the junks: the saloon with its upholstered wicker furniture and colorful carpets are a comfortable feature of the ship. For each meal, the tables are lovingly set and the folded cloth napkins are a piece of art. The… Read More
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Inclusions
What’s Included
Tour Package
- Accommodations for 14 nights (2 onboard a comfortable boat and 12 in 3 or 4-star hotels)
- Meals: Please check each day’s itinerary and codes for meals provided
- Airport transfers on the official arrival and departure day
- Domestic flights
- Rental bikes (the bikes vary from destination to destination)
- English-speaking guides
- Guided walks, bicycle, and kayak tours
- All city tours and entrance fees to National Parks, museums, etc.
- 1 night hotel accommodation in Hanoi
- Breakfast included
- Guided city tour with English-speaking guide (incl. entrance to museums, etc.)
- Airport–hotel–airport transfers in Hanoi
- Lunch during the city tour
- Accommodation for 3 nights
- Breakfasts
- Guided cycling tours and hikes with English English-speaking guide
- Rental bike
- Air-conditioned support vehicle.
- Meals and catering as specified in the itinerary
- All local tours and entry fees to museums and attractions
- Bottled drinking water, along with light snacks and fresh fruit during excursions
- Tourist taxes
Hanoi extension
Siem Reap & Angkor Wat extension
What’s Not Included
Tour package
- Inbound flight to Hanoi and outbound flights
- Drinks on board and in hotels
- Meals not included, please check each day’s itinerary
- Valid visa for Vietnam
- Customized airport transfers, if not on arrival or departure day (prices on request)
- Inbound flight to Hanoi
- Beverages
- Meals not specified in the itinerary
- Vietnamese visa
- Gratuities
- Flight from Ho Chí Minh City to Siem Reap
- Beverages
- Meals not specified in the itinerary
- Cambodian visa
- Gratuities
Hanoi extension
Siem Reap & Angkor Wat extension
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Dates & Pricing
Dates & Pricing
Questions about dates or pricing? We’re here to help! Call 800-951-4384 to talk to a Tour Specialist now.
Mar 15Mar 15 (fully booked) € 3634 Mar 15Mar 15 (fully booked) € 5439 Mar 29Mar 29 (2 cabins left) € 3634 Book Mar 29Mar 29 (2 cabins left) € 5439 Book Oct 25Oct 25 (12 cabins left) € 3894 Book Oct 25Oct 25 (12 cabins left) € 5724 Book Nov 8Nov 8 (9 cabins left) € 3894 Book Nov 8Nov 8 (9 cabins left) € 5724 Book Nov 22Nov 22 (14 cabins left) € 3894 Book Nov 22Nov 22 (14 cabins left) € 5724 Book Pricing details and extra options
- Season A 2026 Mar 15, 29 from € 36342026 departures: Mar 15, 29
2026 March Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat 15 Double Occupancy Double/twin cabin € 3634 Single Occupancy Price Double/twin cabin for single-use € 5439 Bike Rentals Price Standard touring bike Included Electric bike € 200 - Season B 2026 Oct 25, Nov 8, 22 from € 38942026 departures: Oct 25, Nov 8, 22
2026 October Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat 2026 November Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Double Occupancy Double/twin cabin € 3894 Single Occupancy Price Twin/Double cabin Single accommodations are limited and can only be guaranteed in the hotels, not on the boat€ 5724 Bike rentals Price Standard touring bike Included Electric bike € 200
- Tour Extension
4-Day Siem Reap & Angkor Wat extension Only available after the tourDouble room € 995 Single room € 1493 2-Day Hanoi Extension Only available before the tourPrice Double room € 200 Single room € 385
- Extra Options
Domestic Flight Ho Chi Minh to Siem Reap € 250 Extra Night Price Hanoi Twin/double occupancy € 65 Single occupancy € 110 Ho Chi Minh Twin/double occupancy € 85 Single occupancy € 160 Siem Reap Twin/double occupancy € 95 Single occupancy € 170
Please Note
- Rates are per person, based on double occupancy
- Tour prices are based on the fuel costs at time prices are set, often months or years in advance. In rare cases, additional fees may apply for fuel cost increases.
- Information to read before you book
- We recommend purchasing trip insurance
- Please see our FAQ
- Season A 2026 Mar 15, 29 from € 3634
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Extra Info
Skill Level — Easy–Moderate
This easy to moderate cycling tour within Vietnam averages about 15 miles/24 km per day. Roads are mainly asphalted but good accessible trails will be utilized as well. The hilliest stretches are on Day 2 in Tra Ban and then during the tours in Cát Bà. The remaining cycling itineraries are without appreciable inclines. The difficulty of cycling in Vietnam lies mainly in the climatic conditions. By taking your time, using sufficient sun protection, and drinking enough water you can easily acclimate. Do note, that after a rainfall, some routes, especially on your first stage, are difficult to cycle. An alternative route may then be utilized.
If you reserve the extension into Cambodia, you will have a daily distance of up to 31 miles/50 km. Again, heat can be a factor!
Airport Info
Please note that you have to book your arriving flight to Hanoi and the return flight from Ho Chi Minh City. If at all possible, the arriving flight should land before noon on the arrival day.
Local Travel
Airport transfers are included on arrival and departure day. There could be a supplement for transfers on other arrival and departure days. Please ask us!
Climate
Please check local conditions before your arrival.
Recommended
Helmet use is mandatory on all cycle tours. You are strongly encouraged to bring your own (well-fitted) helmet.
Important to know
Visa Requirements
A trip to Vietnam and a holiday there, require a certain amount of preparation in regard to formalities. Please allow yourself enough time!
In order to enter Vietnam, foreigners need a passport valid for at least 6 months and a valid visa to be obtained from the Vietnamese embassy. Vietnam has introduced an electronic visa system as of February 2017. Citizens from 40 countries will be eligible to apply for the e-visa valid for 30 days.
Single entry:
Applicants must have a passport with at least six-month validity.Multiple entry:
You must follow standard mail in or in person protocol. This will be relevant for those who have booked the extension in Cambodia and will return to Viet Nam after.
The following documents must be submitted either in person or by mail:
-Passport (original document, not a copy!)
-Completed application form
-Current passport photograph (1.5 x 2.3 inch/ 4 x 6 cm)
-Visa fee as a non-negotiable check or in cash
-A sufficiently prepaid envelope for registered mailFor those booking extension to Cambodia, visa will be purchased upon entry at $30.
Extra Stay
Recommended is an extra two days (at least) in Hanoi. You will get the chance to acclimatize and explore some sights of the city on your own.
Tour Operator
This tour is run by Island Hopping.
We value the strong relationship we have with our local partners and the services we provide.
We are not a broker.
We do not inflate tour prices.
We are simply travelers helping travelers.Would you like to learn more About Us? How about What Makes Us Different than other companies?
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