SOUTHEAST ASIA CYCLING HO CHI MINH TO BANGKOK

Into the Heart of the Delta

Your Vietnam Adventure Cycling journey begins with a scenic transfer out of the bustling streets of Saigon, trading the city’s energy for the tranquil rhythms of the Mekong Delta. As the urban skyline fades, the landscape opens into a patchwork of rice paddies, fruit orchards, and winding waterways.

Mount your bike and begin pedaling through a lush countryside dotted with coconut groves, water palms, and sleepy hamlets. The route takes you along narrow village paths and across rustic ferries, where the Mekong’s many tributaries weave a watery maze through the land. Each crossing offers a moment to pause, breathe in the scent of the river, and watch daily life unfold on its banks — fishermen casting nets, children waving from stilt houses, and vendors paddling their boats laden with produce.

By late afternoon, you’ll arrive in the peaceful town of Tra Vinh — a quiet enclave known for its Khmer heritage, ancient pagodas, and warm hospitality. Settle into your accommodation, savor a home-cooked meal, and let the gentle hum of the delta lull you into the rhythm of the road ahead.

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  • ACTIVITIES:
    • Bike cycling
• 
  • CYCLING DISTANCE:
    • 50 km
• 
  • MEALS:
    • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• 
  • HOTEL:
    • Cuu Long Hotel or similar

Temples, Traditions, and River Rhythms

Begin your day with the soft light of morning filtering through palm fronds as you set off from Tra Vinh. The road winds through a tapestry of Khmer villages, where ancient temples rise from the rice fields like quiet sentinels of history. You’ll pass saffron-robed monks on their morning walks, hear the gentle chime of temple bells, and catch glimpses of intricate carvings that speak to centuries of spiritual devotion.

The countryside here is serene and sacred — dotted with lotus ponds, sugarcane fields, and roadside shrines. As you ride, the scent of incense mingles with the aroma of grilled sticky rice, and locals wave from shaded verandas, offering warm smiles and fresh fruit.

Gradually, the rural calm gives way to the vibrant pulse of Can Tho — the Mekong Delta’s largest city and a hub of commerce, culture, and cuisine. Arriving in the late afternoon, you’ll feel the energy shift: motorbikes hum along riverside boulevards, markets buzz with activity, and the city’s famous floating market prepares for another dawn of trade.

Settle in, explore the waterfront, and enjoy a well-earned dinner of local specialties — perhaps grilled river fish with tamarind sauce or a steaming bowl of hủ tiếu. Tomorrow, the river calls again. But tonight, Can Tho welcomes you with open arms and a full plate.

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  • ACTIVITIES:
    • Bike cycling
• 
  • CYCLING DISTANCE:
    • 85 km
• 
  • MEALS:
    • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• 
  • HOTEL:
    • Victoria Can Tho Hotel or similar

Floating Markets and River Life

Begin your day with a sunrise boat trip to the iconic Cai Rang Floating Market — one of the Mekong Delta’s most vibrant and colorful spectacles. As your boat glides through the maze of wooden vessels, you’ll witness the pulse of river commerce: vendors tossing pineapples from boat to boat, steaming pots of hủ tiếu served on deck, and families living entirely afloat. It’s a sensory feast — the scent of fresh fruit, the calls of traders, and the gentle rocking of the water beneath you.

After docking, your cycling journey resumes along quiet riverbank roads that weave through lush countryside and industrious villages. You’ll pass rice mills, fish-drying racks, and workshops where locals craft everything from woven mats to coconut candy. The ride is scenic and immersive — shaded by banana trees, punctuated by ferry crossings, and enriched by spontaneous roadside chats with farmers and artisans.

By late afternoon, you’ll arrive in Long Xuyen, a lesser-known delta city with a laid-back charm and a strong local identity. Enjoy a hearty dinner of regional specialties and reflect on a day that brought you closer to the Mekong’s working heart — where trade, tradition, and tranquility flow side by side.

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  • ACTIVITIES:
    • Bike cycling
• 
  • CYCLING DISTANCE:
    • 75 km
• 
  • MEALS:
    • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• 
  • HOTEL:
    • Dong Xuyen Hotel or similar

Memory, Mountains, and Mekong Horizons

Today’s ride takes you through the rolling landscapes of An Giang province, where rice fields stretch to the horizon and palm-lined roads lead to quiet villages steeped in history. As you pedal toward Chau Doc, the terrain gently undulates, offering panoramic views of the countryside and glimpses of daily life — farmers tending fields, children cycling to school, and water buffalo lounging in muddy ponds.

A poignant stop awaits in Ba Chuc, home to the Vietnamese Killing Fields — a solemn memorial to the victims of the Khmer Rouge. Here, history speaks in hushed tones, and the quiet reverence of the site offers a moment of reflection amid the journey’s rhythm. It’s a reminder of the resilience of the Mekong’s people and the importance of remembering even the darkest chapters.

From Ba Chuc, the road climbs gently toward Sam Mountain, a sacred peak overlooking the borderlands of Vietnam and Cambodia. As the sun begins to dip, you’ll reach the summit for a breathtaking sunset view — golden light spilling across rice paddies, temple spires catching the last rays, and the Mekong shimmering in the distance. It’s a fitting end to a day of remembrance, discovery, and awe.

Settle into your lodge in Chau Doc, where the river whispers just beyond your window and tomorrow’s adventure awaits.

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  • ACTIVITIES:
    • Bike cycling
• 
  • CYCLING DISTANCE:
    • 70 km
• 
  • MEALS:
    • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• 
  • HOTEL:
    • Victoria Nui Sam Lodge or similar

Farewell Vietnam, Hello Cambodia!

Your final morning in Vietnam begins with a tranquil boat ride along the Bassac River, gliding past floating fish farms and stilted Cham villages that reflect the region’s cultural mosaic. Watch as families tend to their aquaculture pens, feeding catfish and tilapia destined for local markets, while children wave from wooden porches perched above the water.

The Cham communities offer a glimpse into a rich heritage shaped by centuries of trade, migration, and spiritual tradition. You’ll see ornate mosques, colorful textiles drying in the sun, and hear stories of resilience and adaptation along the river’s edge.

After disembarking, it’s time to say goodbye to Vietnam and cross the border into Cambodia — a seamless transition marked not just by geography, but by subtle shifts in architecture, language, and landscape. The cycling route hugs the border, winding through quiet backroads lined with sugar palms, lotus ponds, and rice paddies that shimmer in the midday light.

Arriving in Takeo, a sleepy Cambodian town steeped in history, you’ll settle into your guesthouse and reflect on the journey so far. Today marks a turning point — not just a border crossed, but a new chapter opened in your Southeast Asia cycling adventure. Tomorrow, Cambodia awaits with temples, traditions, and tastes all its own.

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  • ACTIVITIES:
    • Bike cycling
• 
  • CYCLING DISTANCE:
    • 70 km
• 
  • MEALS:
    • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• 
  • HOTEL:
    • Alice Guesthouse or similar

Pedaling Through Past and Present

Today’s ride offers a powerful blend of pastoral beauty and poignant history as you journey from the quiet countryside of Takeo to Cambodia’s bustling capital, Phnom Penh. The route winds through a patchwork of rice paddies and rural villages, where water buffalo graze and children wave from beneath sugar palms. It’s a ride that invites reflection — on the simplicity of daily life and the resilience of those who live it.

Along the way, you’ll stop at Tonle Bati, a serene lakeside temple complex where ancient Angkorian ruins whisper stories of Cambodia’s spiritual past. The moss-covered stones and intricate carvings offer a moment of calm and wonder amid the day’s journey.

Later, the tone shifts as you visit the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek — a sobering memorial to the atrocities of the Khmer Rouge era. Walking among the quiet groves and stupa of remembrance, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Cambodia’s recent history and the strength of its people in rebuilding from tragedy.

As you approach Phnom Penh, the landscape transforms: the horizon fills with the silhouettes of pagodas, colonial-era buildings, and the vibrant pulse of city life. Arriving in the capital, you’ll feel the contrast — from rural stillness to urban energy — and settle in for a well-deserved rest. Tomorrow, the city’s rich culture, cuisine, and complexity await your discovery.

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  • ACTIVITIES:
    • Bike cycling
• 
  • CYCLING DISTANCE:
    • 70 km
• 
  • MEALS:
    • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• 
  • HOTEL:
    • Skyline Boutique Hotel or similar

Culture, Memory, and Market Life

Today is a deep dive into Cambodia’s capital — a city of contrasts where regal splendor, historical reckoning, and vibrant street life coexist. Begin your tour at the National Museum, home to the world’s finest collection of Khmer art. Its terracotta halls and tranquil courtyard offer a graceful introduction to Cambodia’s ancient heritage, with sculptures and artifacts spanning centuries of creativity and devotion.

Next, step into the grandeur of the Royal Palace, a gleaming complex of golden roofs and manicured gardens. Within its grounds lies the Silver Pagoda, named for its floor of over 5,000 silver tiles. Here, you’ll find sacred treasures including a life-sized gold Buddha adorned with diamonds — a symbol of Cambodia’s spiritual and royal legacy.

The tone shifts as you visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, housed in a former school turned prison during the Khmer Rouge regime. It’s a sobering experience, offering insight into one of Cambodia’s darkest chapters. Photographs, testimonies, and preserved cells tell stories of suffering and resilience, reminding visitors of the importance of remembrance and justice.

To end the day on a lighter note, explore the bustling Russian Market — a maze of stalls selling everything from silk scarves and silver jewelry to sizzling street food and motorbike parts. It’s the perfect place to pick up souvenirs, sample local snacks, and soak in the city’s everyday energy.

From sacred art to solemn history to sensory overload, Phnom Penh reveals itself in layers — and today, you’ve peeled back many of them.

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  • ACTIVITIES:
    • City sightseeing
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  • MEALS:
    • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• 
  • HOTEL:
    • Skyline Boutique Hotel or similar

Roadside Wonders and Edible Curiosities

Today’s journey trades pedals for wheels as you travel by vehicle from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap — a scenic drive that reveals Cambodia’s roadside charm and culinary quirks. Along the way, you’ll make several local stops that offer insight into everyday life and regional flavor.

One highlight is the famous “insect market” in Skun, where trays of crispy tarantulas, silkworms, and crickets are displayed like delicacies. Whether you’re feeling adventurous enough to taste or simply curious to observe, this stop is a fascinating glimpse into Cambodia’s resourceful food culture — where protein comes in unexpected forms and snacks are seasoned with tradition.

Other stops may include roadside fruit stalls bursting with jackfruit and rambutan, small temples tucked behind banyan trees, and villages where artisans craft palm sugar and rice noodles by hand. It’s a day of contrasts — from quirky bites to quiet beauty — and a chance to see how Cambodia’s landscape and lifestyle shift between its two cultural capitals.

Arriving in Siem Reap by late afternoon, you’ll settle into your hotel and prepare for the next chapter of your journey: cycling through the majestic ruins and jungle trails of Angkor. But tonight, rest well — tomorrow, the temples await

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  • ACTIVITIES:
    • Transfer only
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  • MEALS:
    • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• 
  • HOTEL:
    • Hari Residence Hotel & Spa or similar

Ancient Majesty on Two Wheels

Today’s ride is a journey through time — a cycling pilgrimage into the heart of Cambodia’s most iconic archaeological wonders. As dawn breaks over Siem Reap, you’ll set off on two wheels, leaving the city behind and entering a world of jungle-shrouded ruins and sacred silence.

Your path winds through hidden forest trails, shaded by towering trees and echoing with birdsong, until the ancient gates of Angkor Thom rise before you. Once the capital of the Khmer Empire, its massive stone walls and serene moat set the stage for discovery. Inside, the enigmatic faces of Bayon Temple greet you — 216 smiling visages carved into towers, watching over the kingdom with timeless grace.

Next, you’ll pedal to Ta Prohm, the “jungle temple” where nature and architecture entwine. Here, massive tree roots spill over crumbling walls, creating a hauntingly beautiful scene that feels like a secret reclaimed by the forest. It’s a place where silence speaks volumes and every stone tells a story.

Finally, you arrive at the crown jewel: Angkor Wat. Majestic, symmetrical, and awe-inspiring, this temple complex is the largest religious monument in the world. As you walk its galleries and climb its towers, you’ll witness bas-reliefs that narrate epic tales and corridors that glow with golden light.

Cycling between these sacred sites offers a unique rhythm — slow enough to absorb the grandeur, nimble enough to explore hidden corners. It’s a day of wonder, reverence, and connection — where every pedal stroke brings you closer to the soul of Cambodia.

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  • ACTIVITIES:
    • Bike cycling
• 
  • CYCLING DISTANCE:
    • 40 km
• 
  • MEALS:
    • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• 
  • HOTEL:
    • Hari Residence Hotel & Spa

Grace, Grit, and the Khmer Spirit

Today’s ride takes you beyond the main Angkor complex into the heart of authentic Cambodia’s countryside — a journey ofquiet beauty and powerful stories. Pedal through villages where ox carts still roll down red dirt roads, past fields of sugar palms and lotus ponds, and alongside children waving from bamboo verandas. It’s a ride that reveals the everyday grace of rural life, where tradition and resilience shape each moment.

Your destination is the exquisite Banteay Srei, known as the “Citadel of Women.” This 10th-century temple is celebrated for its delicate pink sandstone and intricate carvings — some of the finest in all of Angkor. Unlike the grand scale of Angkor Wat, Banteay Srei charms with intimacy and detail: floral motifs, mythological scenes, and guardian figures etched with astonishing precision. It’s a place that feels personal, poetic, and profoundly human.

Nearby, you’ll visit the Cambodian Landmine Museum, a sobering yet inspiring stop that tells the story of Cambodia’s struggle with unexploded ordnance and the efforts to heal and rebuild. Founded by a former child soldier, the museum offers insight into the country’s past and the ongoing work of education and demining — a testament to courage and hope.

As you cycle back through the countryside, the day lingers in your mind — a blend of artistry, advocacy, and authenticity. It’s a reminder that travel isn’t just about seeing places, but about understanding the lives and legacies that shape them.

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  • ACTIVITIES:
    • Bike cycling
• 
  • CYCLING DISTANCE:
    • 80 km
• 
  • MEALS:
    • Breakfast & Lunch
• 
  • HOTEL:
    • Hari Residence Hotel & Spa

Floating Worlds and Wetland Wonders

Today’s journey trades pedals for paddles as you embark on a scenic 6–7 hour boat trip across the vast and ever-changing Tonle Sap Lake — Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake and a lifeline for millions. This isn’t just a transfer; it’s a voyage through floating worlds, where water becomes home, highway, and harvest.

As your boat glides across the lake, you’ll pass through floating villages, where homes, schools, and even markets drift atop bamboo rafts and anchored boats. Life here moves with the rhythm of the water — children paddle to class, fishermen haul in their catch, and families tend floating gardens. It’s a humbling glimpse into a resilient way of life, shaped entirely by the lake’s seasonal pulse.

Along the way, keep an eye out for bird sanctuaries, where flocks of storks, herons, and kingfishers gather in the wetlands. The lake’s biodiversity is astonishing, and the quiet hum of the boat offers the perfect vantage point to appreciate its natural richness.

Arriving in Battambang by late afternoon, you’ll step back onto land in one of Cambodia’s most charming towns — known for its colonial architecture, creative arts scene, and laid-back vibe. After a day on the water, the quiet streets and warm hospitality of Battambang offer a gentle welcome and a new rhythm to explore.

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  • ACTIVITIES:
    • Boat journey
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  • MEALS:
    • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
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  • HOTEL:
    • Classic Hotel & Spa or similar

Endless Fields and Borderland Beauty

Today’s ride is a serene and scenic journey through the heart of Cambodia’s countryside, as you cycle from the artistic charm of Battambang toward the quiet border town of Pailin. The route unfolds like a living canvas of endless rice paddies, where the green stretches to the horizon and the sky feels impossibly wide.

You’ll pass through small villages where life moves at a gentle pace — farmers tending their fields, children playing beneath sugar palms, and market stalls offering fresh fruit and warm smiles. The ride is dotted with gentle hills, offering just enough elevation to give you sweeping views of the landscape and a sense of the terrain’s quiet rhythm.

As you approach Pailin, nestled near the Thai border, you’ll notice subtle shifts in culture and scenery — a blend of Khmer and Thai influences, reflected in the architecture, cuisine, and language. Once a gem-mining hub, Pailin now offers a peaceful retreat with mountain backdrops, friendly locals, and a sense of crossroads charm.

It’s a day of tranquil beauty, where the journey itself becomes the destination — a slow, steady ride through the soul of rural Cambodia, leading you to the threshold of a new country and the final leg of your Southeast Asian cycling odyssey.

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  • ACTIVITIES:
    • Bike cycling
• 
  • CYCLING DISTANCE:
    • 85 km
• 
  • MEALS:
    • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• 
  • HOTEL:
    • Memorial Palace or similar

Welcome to Thailand!

Today marks a cross-border milestone in your cycling adventure as you leave Cambodia behind and enter Thailand, the final country on your Southeast Asia journey. The transition is more than geographical — it’s a shift in culture, architecture, and landscape that you’ll feel almost instantly.

As you cycle across the border from Pailin to Pong Nam Ron, notice the contrast in scenery: roads become smoother, villages more structured, and the colors of temples and homes take on a distinctly Thai flair. The air feels different, the signage changes, and the rhythm of life subtly shifts — a reminder of the rich diversity within the region.

The ride today is gentle and scenic, allowing you to soak in the new surroundings and appreciate the fresh energy of Thailand. Upon arrival in Pong Nam Ron, you’ll be welcomed with a relaxing evening — think cold drinks by the pool, lush gardens, and the soothing sounds of nature. It’s the perfect way to unwind, reflect on the journey so far, and recharge for the final stretch ahead.

From Khmer temples to Thai hospitality, today is a celebration of cross-cultural connection, new beginnings, and the joy of discovering Southeast Asia one pedal stroke at a time.

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  • ACTIVITIES:
    • Bike cycling
• 
  • CYCLING DISTANCE:
    • 65 km
• 
  • MEALS:
    • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• 
  • HOTEL:
    • The Natural Resort or similar

Tropical Trails and Coastal Calm

Your penultimate day of cycling leads you through lush fruit plantations and rolling hills, as you make your way toward Thailand’s scenic eastern coastline. The ride is a refreshing blend of tropical aromas, gentle climbs, and panoramic views, with roadside stands offering glimpses of pineapples, durian, and mangoes ripening under the sun.

As you pedal through this fertile region, the landscape gradually shifts — from inland greenery to the salty breeze of the Gulf of Thailand. The final stretch brings you to the tranquil shores of Chao Lao Beach, a hidden gem known for its golden sands, calm waters, and laid-back charm.

Here, the pace slows. You’ll have time to relax by the sea, sip on a cold coconut, or take a leisurely swim as the sun dips low over the horizon. Whether you choose to unwind in a hammock, stroll along the shoreline, or simply reflect on the journey so far, Chao Lao Beach offers the perfect setting to recharge and savor the serenity.

Tomorrow, the final leg to Bangkok awaits — but tonight, let the coastal calm wash over you.

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  • ACTIVITIES:
    • Bike cycling
• 
  • CYCLING DISTANCE:
    • 80 km
• 
  • MEALS:
    • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• 
  • HOTEL:
    • Sand Dune Resort or similar

Coastal Charm and Capital Arrival

Your final day on the saddle is a celebration of everything this journey has offered — natural beauty, cultural immersion, and the quiet joy of discovery. Today’s route hugs the stunning Thai coastline, guiding you through a string of fishing villages, mangrove swamps, and seaside communities that pulse with local life.

As you cycle along the Gulf of Thailand, the scenery is ever-changing: colorful boats bobbing in harbors, stilted homes perched above tidal flats, and fishermen mending nets beneath swaying palms. The air is salty and fresh, the roads smooth and scenic — a perfect final stretch to reflect on the miles behind you.

You’ll pause at Laem Mae Phim, a peaceful beach town known for its seafood shacks, gentle surf, and laid-back vibe. It’s a fitting place to rest, take in the view, and savor your last coastal moments before the journey shifts gears.

In the afternoon, you’ll transfer by vehicle to Bangkok, Thailand’s vibrant capital. As the city skyline rises in the distance, you’ll carry with you the memories of three countries, countless encounters, and over 800 kilometers of adventure.

Tonight, celebrate your achievement — you’ve cycled across Southeast Asia, from the Mekong Delta to the heart of Thailand. What a ride.

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  • ACTIVITIES:
    • Bike cycling
• 
  • CYCLING DISTANCE:
    • 60 km
• 
  • MEALS:
    • Breakfast & Lunch
• 
  • END OF TOUR
    • See you again!