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SOUTH EAST ASIA CYCLING FROM HANOI TO VIENTIANE FOR 18 DAYS & 17 NIGHTS
- Overview
- Before You Ride
- Itinerary
- Inclusions & Detail
- More Information
Overview
Epic Cycling Journey from Hanoi to Vientiane 🚴♂️🌏
Embark on an unforgettable 18-day cycling adventure with Vietnam Adventure Cycling, tracing the vibrant pulse of Vietnam 🇻🇳 all the way to the tranquil charm of Vientiane, Laos 🇱🇦. This immersive route blends cultural depth, natural splendor, and meaningful encounters across two captivating countries.
Begin in Hanoi’s bustling Old Quarter, then ride through the emerald terraces of Mu Cang Chai and the misty peaks of Sapa 🏔️. Enjoy rest days in Sapa and Vang Vieng, perfect for soaking in local life or recharging. Pedal through historic Dien Bien Phu ⚔️ and cross the peaceful Tay Trang border 🛂 into Laos, where a mostly downhill ride along the Nam Ou River awaits 🌊.
Explore remote villages, limestone cliffs, and golden temples in Luang Prabang 🛕. Continue south through Phoukhoun and Vang Vieng’s dramatic karst landscapes before concluding in Vientiane — a city of quiet elegance and riverside serenity.
Along the way, connect with ethnic communities, witness everyday life unfolding, and support a local charity recommended by Vietnam Adventure Cycling 🤝❤️. With 970km of cycling over 13 active days, this journey offers the perfect blend of adventure, culture, and soul-stirring scenery.
Trip Details
- DESTINATION:
- Vietnam, Laos
- DESTINATION:
- GROUP SIZE:
- 2 - 25 People
- GROUP SIZE:
- TOTAL DISTANCE:
- 970km / 13 cycling days
- TOTAL DISTANCE:
- ACTIVITIES:
- Ride/Cruise/Walk
- ACTIVITIES:
- ACCOMODATION:
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Best 3–4★ hotel/guesthouse in town.
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- ACCOMODATION:
- SCENERY:
- Rural, rivers & villages
- SCENERY:
Before You Ride
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Itinerary
DAY 1: HANOI - WELCOME TO VIETNAM
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Welcome & Arrival in Hanoi ✈️🏨
Upon arrival, the Vietnam Adventure Cycling Team will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your cozy hotel right in the heart of Hanoi’s vibrant Old Quarter. Enjoy some free time to unwind and explore the charming streets on your own.
Later in the afternoon, join us for a welcome dinner to kick off the adventure. Before that, there will be a quick bike fitting session, followed by a detailed briefing from your cycling guide covering everything you need to know for the trip ahead.
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Day 2 : HANOI - MU CANG CHAI
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Nghia Lo Departure & Ride to Mu Cang Chai 🚴♂️🏞️
Our team will meet you at the hotel before transferring about 3 hours to Nghia Lo, where we’ll enjoy a traditional local lunch. From here, the cycling adventure begins, heading north towards Laos. The route is a beautiful mix of hills and rolling mountains, offering breathtaking, panoramic views at every turn.
We pedal along smooth, wide roads, passing lush green rice fields and exchanging smiles with friendly locals. The day’s ride ends at a charming hotel in Mu Cang Chai, where you can relax and enjoy dinner after a rewarding day on the bike.
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Day 3: MU CANG CHAI - LAO CAI
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Terraced Rice Fields & Ride to Lao Cai 🚴♂️🌾
Today, the stunning beauty of the terraced rice fields and the warm smiles of the local people will captivate you. We start cycling from the hotel along smooth roads, taking a leisurely pace to fully soak in the breathtaking natural scenery.
After a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, we board the bus for a transfer to Lao Cai, the bustling border town with China. The day ends with dinner and a restful overnight stay in Lao Cai.
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Day 4: LAO CAI - SAPA
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Cycling to Sapa & Border Exploration 🚴♂️🏞️
Today's ride begins with cycling around the lively border town, offering a unique glimpse into the daily interactions and vibrant activities along the Vietnam-China frontier. You’ll witness the bustling markets, local traders, and the colorful mix of cultures that thrive in this border area. After soaking in the atmosphere, the route leads you onto a scenic 40 km uphill ride toward Sapa.
Known as the Queen of Mountains, Sapa is perched in a breathtaking valley surrounded by towering peaks. The town was established as a French hill station in 1922, and its charming colonial architecture still reflects this heritage. Along the way, you’ll pass terraced rice fields, traditional villages, and enjoy sweeping views of the majestic Hoang Lien Son mountain range.
After a rewarding day of cycling and exploration, you’ll arrive in Sapa to relax and enjoy a well-deserved rest at your comfortable hotel.
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DAY 5: SAPA -FREEDAY
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Free to Explore Sapa & Its Ethnic Cultures 🚶♂️🏞️
Discover Sapa at your own pace, a vibrant market town where several ethnic minority groups such as Hmong, Dao (Yao), Giáy, Xa Pho, and Tay live and thrive. Explore the colorful markets, traditional villages, and rich cultural heritage that make this area truly unique.
Take time to wander through the bustling streets, meet local artisans, and sample traditional cuisine. The surrounding terraced rice fields and misty mountains provide a breathtaking backdrop for your day of leisure and discovery.
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Day 6: SAPA - LAI CHAU
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Mountain Challenge to Tram Ton Pass – A Ride to the Clouds & Culture ☕🚴
Awaken your senses for an exhilarating day as we leave behind the comfort of the hotel and pedal into the crisp highland air. Today’s adventure begins with a 15 km uphill ride toward the legendary Heaven Gate (Tram Ton Pass)—the highest mountain pass in Vietnam. It’s a steady climb, but the reward is extraordinary: a panoramic vista over the Hoang Lien Son range, where clouds swirl like rivers through jagged peaks. Take a moment here to rest and reflect, cradling a warm cup of Vietnamese coffee while gazing across the sky-high landscape ☁️☕.
From there, gravity becomes your friend as you descend 24 km along a winding road to Binh Luu, feeling the wind rush past and the thrill of speed on your skin. Here, a hearty local lunch awaits—simple mountain fare, made with care.
The afternoon continues with a gentle ride over rolling hills, weaving through lush valleys and quiet tribal villages. Expect to encounter scenes of everyday life—buffalo grazing, children waving, terraced rice paddies cascading down green hillsides. The journey offers a rare glimpse into the soul of the highlands before we arrive in Lai Chau, where we’ll settle in for the night.
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DAY 7: LAI CHAU-MUONG LAY
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Cycling to Muong Lay – Into the Heart of the Highlands 🚴♀️⛰️
Get ready for one of the most intense rides of the journey as we set out from the hotel and head deep into the northern mountains toward Muong Lay. This is not a route for the faint of heart—it’s a grueling mix of steep climbs, thrilling tarmac descents, and rugged terrain, where gravel and hardened clay roads test both your legs and spirit.
But with every drop of sweat, you’re rewarded with some of the most dramatic landscapes in the region—winding mountain passes, mist-laced valleys, and far-off villages nestled like hidden gems in the hills. This ride offers a raw, unfiltered experience of Vietnam’s remote north, where nature reigns and beauty is found in every turn of the road.
As the day draws to a close, you’ll roll into the tranquil riverside town of Muong Lay, a peaceful place to rest your legs and take in the stillness of the highlands after a long day on the saddle.
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DAY 8: MUONG LAY- DIEN BIEN PHU
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Final Ride to Dien Bien Phu – A Journey Through History and Hidden Valleys 🚴♂️🌄
Today marks the last cycling day in Vietnam, and it promises to be a memorable one. Departing from the hotel, you’ll enjoy a long yet gentle ride, winding through a breathtaking landscape of lush valleys and untouched, remote villages. The route is smooth for much of the way—perfect for soaking in the scenery—but don’t be fooled: the final stretch will push your limits with a challenging ascent into Dien Bien Phu.
We’ll pause midday for a picnic lunch amidst nature, surrounded by mountain silence and the occasional hum of village life. Then, with renewed energy, continue the journey onward, crossing through lands rich in both beauty and history.
As you approach Dien Bien Phu, the town slowly rises out of the hills—its name forever etched in Vietnam’s past. After a full day of cycling, we’ll check into the hotel where you can rest, reflect, and celebrate completing this epic ride across northern Vietnam.
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DAY 9: DIEN BIEN PHU - CROSSING BORDER - MUANG KHAU
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Into Laos – Crossing Borders & Tracing History 🇻🇳➡️🇱🇦🚴♂️
We begin the day early with a visit to the historic battlefields of Dien Bien Phu, where Vietnam’s fight for independence from French colonial forces reached its decisive climax. This valley, once echoing with the sounds of war, now stands as a quiet monument to resilience and victory—an essential stop before we cross into new terrain.
After paying tribute to this iconic site, we set off on our 65 km ride toward Muang Khua, crossing the remote Tay Trang border into northeastern Laos. Be sure to have your Laos visa ready—it can be arranged in advance or obtained on arrival at the border.
This corner of Laos is one of the country’s least populated and most peaceful regions. The road winds through untamed landscapes and serene riverside paths, tracing the Nam Ou River as we cycle deeper into Laos. Though the route is demanding, the warmth of the locals and breathtaking views offer constant encouragement and unexpected joy.
We’ll arrive in the tranquil riverside town of Muang Khua by evening—your first taste of Lao life, quiet and welcoming, nestled in a bend of the river.
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DAY 10: MUANG KHAU - OXDOMXAI
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Riding the River Road to Oudomxai – Through Jungle Paths & Past Echoes of War 🚴♂️🌿
After breakfast in the peaceful town of Muang Khua, we set off for an 80 km ride along the Nam Ou River, following its winding course deeper into the heart of northern Laos. The day’s ride takes us through a shifting landscape of dense jungle, quiet rice paddies, and forested hills, offering moments of calm and beauty at every turn.
As we cycle onward, the route gradually leads us out of the wilderness and into the busy town of Oudomxai, a dynamic hub nestled at the crossroads of National Roads 1, 2, and 4. Once a strategic base for Chinese military support during the Second Indochina War, Oudomxai has since grown into a vital Laos-China trade center, blending traditional Lao life with modern commerce and cultural fusion.
You'll notice the pace of life picking up here—street vendors, local shops, and traces of old-world charm all wrapped in the hum of a growing town. After a long day in the saddle, settle in and unwind at your hotel for the night.
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DAY 11: OXDOMXAI - PAKMONG
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Into the Mountains – Cycling Through Hmong Heartlands to Pak Mong 🚴♀️⛰️
Today’s journey takes you high into the Laotian mountains, where the road climbs through dense forests and into the remote villages of the Hmong people—one of Laos’ most resilient and culturally rich ethnic groups. As we ascend, the air cools and the views expand, revealing valleys tucked between emerald peaks and simple homes perched on the mountainside.
Along the way, Vietnam Adventure Cycling Tour encourages a small act of kindness—a chance to offer support to Hmong families living in these remote areas. Whether it’s sharing school supplies, warm clothes, or just a smile, your presence here brings connection as well as adventure 🤝🎒.
After reaching the summit, enjoy a thrilling descent through rolling hills, where the landscape constantly shifts—rice terraces, misty forests, and traditional stilt houses all unfold before your wheels. In the afternoon, you’ll pedal past small villages where curious children run out to greet you, their laughter echoing along the road.
The day ends in the quiet town of Pak Mong, nestled at the base of the mountains, where a warm meal and soft bed await.
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DAY 12: PAK MONG - LUANG PRABANG
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Final Day – Cycling & Cruising into the Heart of Luang Prabang 🚴♂️🚤🛕
Our last day on the road is a perfect blend of adventure and serenity, as we begin with a 50 km ride along the Nam Ou River, passing peaceful villages and emerald rice fields. The route offers a final taste of rural life in Laos—smiling farmers, waving children, and the soft rhythm of riverside life.
By late morning, we’ll arrive at the ferry point, where bikes give way to boats. After enjoying a local lunch by the riverbank, we set off on a tranquil cruise to the sacred Pak Ou Caves, famed for their thousands of Buddha statues nestled into limestone cliffs.
From the caves, we continue our journey downstream, gently gliding along the Mekong River toward our final destination: Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Southeast Asia’s most enchanting towns. Framed by mountains and rich with spiritual and cultural charm, it’s the perfect place to have a rest and recover for the next days of our journey.
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Day 13: LUANG PRABANG - FREEDAY
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Leisure Day in Luang Prabang – A Cultural Gem by the Mekong 🌅🏛️
Tucked between misty mountains and nestled at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers, Luang Prabang is the perfect place to pause and soak in the charm of Laos. Today is a well-deserved rest day, giving you the chance to explore this UNESCO World Heritage town at your own pace. 🧘♀️🌿
Wander through quiet laneways lined with golden-roofed temples, discover the rich history at the Royal Palace Museum, or admire the faded elegance of French colonial architecture. With 32 historic temples and serene river views, this peaceful town invites you to slow down and simply enjoy.
Whether you choose to sip Lao coffee in a riverside café ☕, browse the vibrant night market, or just unwind in the tranquil atmosphere, today is yours to savor.
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DAY 14: LUANG PRABANG - PHOUKHON
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Cycling to Phoukoun – Through Mountain Roads & H’Mong Heartlands 🚴♂️🌄
Today’s ride takes us deep into the remote beauty of northern Laos, where limestone peaks rise dramatically above dense forest and tiny hill tribe villages. As we depart from Luang Prabang, the mountain road leads us through a landscape rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage. 🏞️🌿
Our journey winds past traditional H’Mong villages, where stilted wooden homes perch on steep hillsides and children wave as we pass by. The road steadily climbs, offering panoramic views of mist-covered valleys and jagged karst cliffs—perfect for those with a love for nature and photography.
After a fulfilling 78 km of cycling, we transfer by vehicle the final 66 km to Phoukoun, a quiet highland town nestled among the peaks. Here, we enjoy a well-earned dinner and peaceful overnight stay.
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DAY 15: PHOUNKHON-VANG VIENG
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Cycling the Mountain Ridge to Vang Vieng – Peaks, Valleys & Hot Springs 🚴♂️🌄
Today’s ride is one of the most challenging—and rewarding—sections of our journey. After an early breakfast, we gear up for a day of serious cycling through the mountainous heart of Laos. The road winds along a high ridge line, offering sweeping views of towering peaks and deep valleys as we conquer a series of climbs and descents. ⛰️💪
At the 24 km mark, we stop for a well-earned break at a natural hot spring—perfect for refreshing and rehydrating before continuing through the lush valley. We arrive in Kasi for lunch, where the serene surroundings and friendly locals offer a welcome midday pause. 🍜🌿
In the afternoon, we hop back on the bikes and make our way toward Vang Vieng, a riverside town nestled among dramatic limestone karsts and known for its laid-back charm and stunning landscapes. 🚵♀️🏞️
With 100 km behind us, we finish the day at a peaceful resort by the Nam Song River, ready to rest and recharge.
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DAY 16: VANG VIENG - FREEDAY
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Leisure Day in Vang Vieng – Lagoons, Kayaking & Relaxation 🏞️🛶💆♀️
Today is yours to enjoy at your own pace in the scenic riverside town of Vang Vieng. Surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs and tranquil countryside, this is the perfect place to unwind and explore.
For those seeking adventure, we highly recommend a full day discovering the area’s famous blue lagoons—don’t forget your swimsuit and a towel! 🏊♂️🌊 These crystal-clear waters are ideal for a refreshing dip or simply soaking up the sun.
If you prefer something more active, kayaking along the Nam Song River offers a peaceful way to take in the natural beauty of the region. 🛶✨ And after a day of fun, treat yourself to a traditional Lao massage to relax tired muscles and rejuvenate the body. 💆
As the sun sets, enjoy the chilled-out vibe of Vang Vieng and rest up for the journey ahead.
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DAY 17: VANG VIENG - VIENTIANE
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Cycling to Vientiane – Lakeside Views & a Smooth Ride into the Capital 🚴♂️🌅
Our final day of cycling begins with a short transfer from the hotel to the tranquil shores of Nam Ngum Lake. After taking in the peaceful scenery, we set off on our bikes, pedaling along the main road that gently winds its way toward Vientiane.
Though the surface may be rough in places, this route sees little traffic, making for a calm and pleasant ride. The terrain is mostly flat, allowing us to maintain a steady pace and arrive in the capital by early afternoon.
With the ride complete, there’s time to relax and reflect on the journey before enjoying dinner in the city. Vientiane, with its riverside charm and French colonial architecture, offers a fitting end to our Laos adventure.
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DAY 18: VIENTIANE - DEPARTURE
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Cycling to Vientiane – Lakeside Views & a Smooth Ride into the Capital 🚴♂️🌅 Your final morning in Laos begins with a relaxed breakfast at the hotel, savoring the last tastes of fragrant Lao coffee and freshly baked bread. Depending on your flight time, you may have a chance for one last stroll along the Mekong promenade or to browse a nearby market for a few final souvenirs 🛍️🌿. Our team will be on hand to assist with your transfer to Wattay International Airport, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey. As the city’s mix of golden temples and French colonial facades passes by your window, take a moment to reflect on the cycling adventure that brought you here 🚴♂️✨. Though it’s time to say goodbye, the memories of serene landscapes, warm smiles, and shared miles will remain long after you depart. Safe travels, and we hope to welcome you back for another journey in Southeast Asia soon 🌅🤝. |
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Inclusions & Detail
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YOUR BIKE
YOUR BIKE
You’ll ride on a Trek Brand mountain bike, the Marlin 5 that’s been designed to be both comfortable and durable. This bike is a trail-worthy daily rider that’s perfectly suited for everyday adventures, on and off the trail. We have a full range of bike sizes available for you to choose from, and the helmet is also included in your tour.
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E-BIKE AVAILABLE
E-BIKE AVAILABLE
You’ll ride on a Trek Brand mountain bike, the Marlin 5 that’s been designed to be both comfortable and durable. This bike is a trail-worthy daily rider that’s perfectly suited for everyday adventures, on and off the trail. We have a full range of bike sizes available for you to choose from, and the helmet is also included in your tour.
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YOUR GUIDE
YOUR GUIDE
Our enthusiastic and friendly English-speaking biking guides are not only knowledgeable and helpful but also trained in first aid and skilled in bike maintenance. Their primary role is to ensure your tour is safe, smooth, and enjoyable from start to finish. They expertly manage the group, coordinate with drivers and support vehicles, and attend to every detail—including stopping for snacks and fresh fruit along the way. More than just cycling experts, they serve as cultural ambassadors, enriching your journey with insights into the local traditions and communities you’ll encounter.
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TRACK TYPE
TRACK TYPE
The route winds mostly through peaceful rural landscapes, gently rolling hills, and along a serene coastline. You'll cycle on a mix of smooth asphalt and rustic dirt roads that meander through lush countryside and vibrant rice fields. Quiet backroads trace the riverbanks and villages—narrow but perfectly suited for cycling, with very little traffic. Along the way, expect charming stretches of sandy paths, tiny lanes, and rural roads hugging the riverside, as well as some sections of sturdy concrete roads, creating a varied and captivating journey through nature’s beauty.
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SCENERY & LANDSCAPE
SCENERY & LANDSCAPE
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Laos as you cycle through misty mountains, golden temples, and tranquil riversides. Journey from the spiritual charm of Luang Prabang’s ancient cityscapes to the quiet northern highlands dotted with green hills and traditional villages. Descend toward the majestic Mekong River, ride past lush rice paddies and towering limestone cliffs in Vang Vieng, and explore the tree-lined avenues and riverfront cafés of Vientiane. Finally, immerse yourself in the dreamlike scenery of Si Phan Don—the Four Thousand Islands—where palm-fringed shores, cascading waterfalls, and peaceful fishing villages create a serene paradise unlike any other.
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SUPPORT VAN
SUPPORT VAN
For groups of fewer than 6 passengers, a 16-seat bus will be provided, equipped with A/C and operated by experienced driver.
For groups of fewer than 12, either a 25-seat bus or two 16-seat buses will be provided, equipped with A/C and operated by experienced drivers.
For groups of up to 24, a 25-seat bus will be provided along with a luggage van, equipped with A/C and operated by experienced driver.
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YOUR MEALS
YOUR MEALS
All meals are included as outlined in your itinerary. You’ll enjoy a variety of delicious local dishes, with a focus on noodles, rice, curries, and soups—offering a true taste of the region.
Traveling with us means not just seeing South East Asia, but also savoring their vibrant culinary scenes. From street food to cozy local restaurants, you'll have plenty of chances to explore regional flavors. Your guide will be happy to take you to excellent dining spots throughout your journey.
If you have any dietary preferences or restrictions—such as vegetarian, vegan, or specific food allergies—please let us know in advance. We’ll make sure the restaurants and hotels you're visiting are informed and prepared to accommodate your needs.
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WATER & SNACK
WATER & SNACK
To keep you energized and refreshed throughout the tour, we provide complimentary cold water, local snacks, and fresh fruit at our occasional break stops—helping you stay hydrated and well-nourished as you explore.
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OTHER INCLUSION
OTHER INCLUSION
Airport pick up & drop off.
All admission fees at attractions, temples and activities mentioned in the itinerary.
Speed boat, boat & ferry.
Community Support.
First aid kits per tour guide.
Tools & spare parts for bike.
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OUR PACE
OUR PACE
Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, we’re dedicated to making your cycling experience exceptional! Ride at your own pace, starting from 10 km per hour, and push your limits as far as you desire. E-Bike option is also available.
Pause anytime for that perfect photo opportunity as we travel along the epic breath-taking scenery of South East Asia.
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OUR IMPACT
OUR IMPACT
We design and operate our trips with sustainability at the heart of everything we do—minimizing environmental impact while creating meaningful, positive contributions to the local communities and cultures we engage with.
Our mission goes beyond offering unforgettable travel experiences. We are committed to building a responsible adventure-travel model that uplifts the people and places we visit. Whether it’s through our educational tours, support for nature reserves and wildlife sanctuaries, or sourcing fresh produce directly from local farms, we strive to ensure that every journey benefits the region and its residents.
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NOT INCLUDED
NOT INCLUDED
Travel insurance – Ensure you have coverage for your trip.
Personal expenses – Shopping, souvenirs, and any additional costs.
Tips – Recommended $5 per day per person for guides and staff.
Alcoholic drinks – Beverages outside of provided meals.
Flight tickets – To/from Vietnam are not part of the package.
Visas – Entry permits for Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, or any required travel documentation.
Additional services – Anything not explicitly mentioned in the itinerary.
More Information
Arrival Details
After clearing immigration and collecting your luggage, you'll be warmly greeted in the arrivals hall by our guide, easily recognizable by the Vietnam Adventure Cycling logo and a sign bearing your name.
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PICK UP LOCATION | Hanoi |
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MEETING TIME | Arrival Time |
Departure Details
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DROP-OFF LOCATION | Vientiane |
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DROP-OFF TIME | End of the tour |
TRIP MAP
