“Bike tour from Saigon to Angkor Temples”
12 Day Vietnam and Cambodia Guided Cycling Tour
Ho Chi Minh City - Tra Vinh - Can Tho - Rach Gia - Chau Doc, Vietnam; Phnom Penh - Kampong Thom - Siem Reap and Angkor, Cambodia
Cycling Tour in Cambodia and Vietnam
On this unforgettable bike tour, you will embark on an amazing journey through two of the most captivating countries in Southeast Asia: Vietnam and Cambodia. Ride out of the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh, explore the lush landscapes and diverse cultures of the Mekong Delta, and observe life from a unique perspective as you meet locals, immerse yourself in their culture, and savor delicious food. Cross the Cambodian border by boat, then cycle through the quiet back roads and jungle trails to explore the spectacular temples of Angkor and uncover the unique beauty of the Cambodian countryside.
Key information
- Trip type: Guided
- Lodging: Point to point
- Terrain: Tarmac roads (70%) and dirt tracks (30%)
- Starts in: Ho Chi Minh City
- Ends in: Angkor
- Total Distance: 308 miles / 495 kilometers
- Type of bike: Mountain bike
- E-bike: Giant Talon E+3 (not included in the price)
Meet the instructors
Sum & Borith
Read more
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Highlights
- 8 riding days
- Quality bicycle and helmet
- English-speaking guide
- Take a ride through the Mekong Delta and live the life around it
- Explore the lush forests, mighty rivers, and intricate villages
- A support van will follow you throughout the tour
- Complimentary airport transfers from / to Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN)
- 11 nights accommodation + daily breakfast and lunch
Skill level
- Intermediate
- Advanced
8 days with instruction
Group size: 2-12 participants
Airport transfer included:
Tan Son Nhat International Airport
Accommodation
Check-in Time:
14:00
Check-out Time:
12:00
The Odys Boutique Hotel, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
Located in the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh City, The Odys Boutique Hotel is the ideal place for a comfortable stay. Its proximity to the city center allows you more time to explore all of the exciting attractions that this amazing destination has to offer. With its range of amenities, comfortable accommodations, and friendly staff, it is truly the perfect choice when visiting Ho Chi Minh City.
Fitted with wooden flooring, modern air-conditioned rooms feature a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a personal safe, and a mini-bar. The private bathroom comes with a bathtub, hairdryer, and toiletries. Staff at the 24-hour front desk can assist with airport shuttle, laundry, and ticketing services.
Facilities:
- Free WiFi
- Air conditioning
- Outdoor pool
Cuu Long Hotel, Tra Vinh, Vietnam
Located in Tra Vinh city, Cuu Long Hotel has a shared lounge, terrace, restaurant, and bar. At the hotel, the rooms have air conditioning, a desk, a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom, bed linens, towels, and a patio with a city view.
Facilities:
- Free Wi-Fi
- Air conditioning
Rach Gia Resort, Rach Gia, Vietnam
Located in Rach Gia, Rach Gia Resort includes rooms with a separate living room and balcony or terrace. For a bit of entertainment, you will find television and cable TV available in some selected rooms.
At the resort, you'll be able to enjoy all the modern amenities that you'd expect in the hotel, including those for your bathroom. Each guest bathroom is stocked with a hair dryer, toiletries, plush bathrobes, and towels so that you can have everything you need for your stay.
Facilities:
- Free WiFi
- Air conditioning
- Outdoor pool
Nesta Hotel Can Tho
Nesta Hotel Can Tho is located in the city of Can Tho, along the Hau River. Each room is uniquely decorated and will provide you with a flat-screen cable TV, air conditioning and a minibar. There is also an electric kettle. The private bathroom also comes with a hairdryer, free toiletries and slippers.
At Nesta Hotel Can Tho, you will find a 24-hour front desk, a garden and a bar. Other facilities offered at the property include a ticket service and luggage storage. Free WiFi access is available throughout the premises.
- Free Wifi
- Air Conditioning
- Outdoor Pool
Sai Gon Rach Gia Hotel
Located in Rach Gia, Sai Gon Rach Gia Resort including rooms with a separate living room and balcony or terrace. For a bit of entertainment, you will find television and cable TV available in some selected rooms.
At the hotel, you'll be able to enjoy all the modern amenities that you'd expect in the hotel, including those for your bathroom. Each guest bathroom is stocked with a hair dryer, toiletries, plush bathrobes, and towels so that you can have everything you need for your stay.
- Free Wifi
- Air Conditioning
- Outdoor Pool
Chau Pho Hotel
Located in Chau Doc, Chau Pho Hotel puts everything the city has to offer just outside your doorstep. The property offers guests a range of services and amenities designed to provide comfort and convenience. Facilities like daily housekeeping, private check in/check out, ticket service, 24-hour front desk, Wi-Fi in public areas are readily available for you to enjoy.
Designed for comfort, selected guestrooms offer flat screen television, carpeting, clothes rack, linens, slippers to ensure a restful night.
- Free Wifi
- Air Conditioning
Okay Boutique Hotel
Located in the heart of Phnom Penh's bustling city center, Okay Boutique Hotel offer accommodations with a unique Khmer-style decor. It has an impeccably maintained outdoor swimming pool surrounded by lush greenery for guests to take a dip in, and the in-house restaurant serves up delicious local and international cuisine. There's also a chic bar that serves drinks for those who would like to relax after a long day of sightseeing. Plus, free WiFi is available in all guest rooms so you can stay connected during your stay.
- Free Wifi
- Air Conditioning
- Outdoor Pool
Two Seasons Siem Reap Hotel
Two Seasons Siem Reap Hotel is a modern and luxurious property located in the heart of Siem Reap, inspired by Cambodia's historic colonial past. This hotel offers 30 beautifully decorated rooms filled with traditional handmade carvings, sculptures, and modern art pieces. At the hotel the rooms come with air conditioning, a desk, a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom, bed linen, towels and a balcony with a city view. All rooms will provide guests with a wardrobe and a kettle.
With a superb location, you can enjoy the best convenience and easy access to the surrounding attractions.
At the rooftop, you will find a spacious sky bar and infinity pool that offers panoramic views of Siem Reap city. Surrounding the pool area are an array of custom-designed pool beds and loungers for your comfort.
- Free Wifi
- Air Conditioning
- Outdoor Pool
Program
Highlights:
- Vietnam and Cambodia Backroads: Venture off the beaten path to discover hidden gems of Vietnam and Cambodia. From Saigon to the Mekong Delta and the Angkor Wat temple in Cambodia.
- Cycle the Mekong Delta: Discover the Mekong Delta and beyond by pedaling the quiet backroads. Witness the Mekong's famous floating markets, farmlands, and cruise through the Mekong River.
- Explore Phnom Penh and Silk Island: Cross the Vietnam-Cambodia border by boat and explore Phnom Penh's history, including the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, Silk Farm, and Tuol Sleng Museum.
- Siem Reap and Angkor: Cycle the awe-inspiring Angkor archaeological park in Cambodia like never before. Immerse yourself in the rich history and breathtaking beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site as you pedal through ancient temples, jungle trails, and lush landscapes.
Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City
Upon arrival, please look out for the Siem Reaper welcome sign at the arrivals gate. The team will transfer you to your hotel, where you can take your time and relax by the pool or venture out for your first exploration of this ancient city. The tour guide will be waiting to meet you at your hotel promptly at 17:00 to conduct a comprehensive bike fitting and afterward, join you for a delicious dinner to celebrate the beginning of your exciting journey by bike.
- Meal: Dinner
- Hotel: The Odys Boutique Hotel
Day 2: Ben Tre - Tra Vinh
- Distance: 60 kilometers / 37 miles
Today, have a 2-hour transfer to the Mekong. You will board a local ferry to get to Ben Tre known for being the Kingdom of the Coconut and nursery gardens. Hop on your bikes and you will be treated to a stunning array of colors as you pedal past the beautiful riverside homes and villages that line the delta. Their economy is driven by coconuts, which are at the core of their culture, and as you cross bridges and journey along the winding roads, it's hard not to be in awe of this stunning landscape. Then you take a sampan (traditional boat) through narrow canals before boarding a ferry for a refreshing boat ride across the wide Co Chien River.
Lunch will be served at a local restaurant before cycling through the most famous water coconut trails and ending with a ferry crossing from the main arm of the Mekong river to Tra Vinh town, where you will spend the night in the city center.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch
- Hotel: Cuu Long Hotel
Day 3: Tra Vinh - Can Tho
- Distance: 55 kilometers / 34 miles
This morning, you will set out on an exciting journey to explore the natural beauty and the unique Khmer architecture and culture of this region. Leaving Tra Vinh City, you will cycle a short distance to uncover the breathtaking beauty of Ba Om Pond, an 800-year-old Khmer architectural masterpiece. This special location is renowned for its seasonal lotus flowers and is sure to be a highlight of your journey. Then you will see rice paddies interspersed along the route, and coconut trees will fill the horizon. This is quite spectacular to behold and is well worth a photo stop. This region is renowned for being the second-largest producer of rice in Vietnam.
After lunch, you will take an approximately 1-hour transfer to a hotel in Can Tho, where you will have the opportunity to relax with nightlife and rooftop views from restaurants in the city center. Be sure not to miss out on its well-known night markets!
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch
- Hotel: Nesta Hotel Can Tho
Day 4: Can Tho - Rach Gia
- Distance: 50 kilometers / 31 miles
This morning, you will be embarking on an exciting journey from Can Tho to the renowned Cai Rang floating market. Taking a boat as your mode of transport, you can expect to encounter the bustling activity of the market, where merchants and vendors sell their wares on small boats and barges. It will be a truly unique experience that you won't soon forget. Then, you will explore the canal system of the Mekong, where you will see some of the canals that were used to transport boats during the Vietnam War.
Afterward, you will cycle along the river on paved and secluded roads, where you will be blessed with breathtaking views of the region's lush fruit gardens that seem to seamlessly blend in with the picturesque countryside trails. En route, take a short transfer to your hotel in Rach Gia.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch
- Hotel: Rach Gia Resort
Day 5: Rach Gia - Chau Doc
- Distance: 45 kilometers / 28 miles
Today, you will take a short transfer via a private shuttle to the seat of the Southern Kingdom of Vietnam as it was recognized 2000 years ago. You will visit a local museum dedicated to the history of the region and specifically the cultural importance of the region’s jewel production. For many in this area, pride in their family history as rulers of the South is still evident today.
After having the opportunity to enjoy a variety of unique and immersive cultural experiences, you will cycle toward Chau Doc. As this region is prone to flooding on an annual basis, compared to the days when Siem Reaper Travel used to cycle there, there are now far fewer local routes through the rice paddies.
Lunch will be served after this relaxing experience before you get back on your bikes for your overnight stay in Chau Doc City.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch
- Hotel: Chau Pho Hotel
Day 6: Chau Doc - Phnom Penh by speedboat
For this last day, your legs will get a well-deserved rest. You will check out of your accommodation and have breakfast and you will then board a comfortable speed boat heading to Cambodia at 06:45. The boat ride will take about 5 hours, during which you will be able to enjoy some snacks.
Visas at the border will be arranged by the crew. Please prepare 2x ID photos (with a white background) as well as 35 USD in cash for the border (which must be undamaged, with no writing on them or torn or taped edges).
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch
- Hotel: Okay Boutique Hotel
Day 7: Phnom Penh City Tour by Cyclo
After breakfast, your day will start with a relaxing cyclo ride along the Boulevard to the Independent Monument. During the ride, you'll enjoy the beautiful view of Phnom Penh from the riverside. You will make some stops along the way to take pictures of the Riverfront and the Royal Palace.
Then visit the magnificent Royal Palace, a breathtaking complex that proudly serves as the esteemed residence of the King of Cambodia. Immerse yourself in awe-inspiring architecture, marvel at intricate decorations, and learn about Cambodian culture and art. Inside the palace grounds, you'll find the Silver Pagoda, which houses a remarkable collection of Buddha statues and a floor adorned with over 5,000 silver tiles.
Continue to the National Museum, also called Musee des Beaux-Arts. A French archaeologist and painter, Georges Groslier, designed it in Khmer style in 1917. The museum contains a collection of Khmer art - notably sculptures - throughout the ages.
Your included visits to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum will introduce you to the tragic legacy of the Khmer Rouge. Your expert guide will tell you the story of this period in detail, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of this dark chapter in Cambodia's history.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch
- Hotel: Okay Boutique Hotel
Day 8: Phnom Penh – Kampong Thom
- Distance: 50 killometers / 28 miles
Today, you escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and cross the river by ferry boat, making your way towards the north of Phnom Penh and the Silk Islands (Koh Dach). After arriving on land, you will bike through orchards and vegetable farms, enjoying the peaceful farmland and learning about the lives of the people who call the Silk Islands home. %Along the way, you will park your bikes for some interesting cultural stops as you check out traditional village industries and get a better sense of authentic Cambodian life on these islands. Learn more about Cambodia’s silk weaving history, stroll through quiet villages, and relax on the riverbank of the Mekong River. You will have lunch at a local restaurant before transferring by van to Kampong Thom Province.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch
- Hotel: Sambor Village Hotel
Day 9: Kampong Thom - Siem Reap and Angkor
- Distance: 60 kilometers / 37 miles
This morning, you cycle across the remote villages to the ancient temple site of Sambor Prey Kuk. This temple site was constructed in the 7th century and functioned as the capital of the Chenla Empire. It is one of the oldest temple sites in Cambodia and is mainly covered in jungles.
After the guided tour through the temples, you enjoy a local picnic lunch prepared by the local community in small wooden huts surrounding the temple complex and absorb the local sights and sounds.
After lunch, you continue your ride through rice paddies and small villages, with locals greeting you as you cycle by. You then hop back into your van for a 3 hours transfer to Siem Reap and Angkor.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch
- Hotel: Two Seasons Siem Reap Hotel
Day 10: Floating Village Bike and Boat
- Distance: 45 kilometers / 28 miles
This morning, you will be thrilled to embark on an exciting bicycle tour and explore the stunning Tonle Sap Trail with its unique sights of life on the floating village. Along the way, your knowledgeable guide will take you to explore the local farms and engage in various activities that bring you closer to understanding the everyday lives of Cambodian villagers. You can experience a glimpse into their culture, history, and traditions which is sure to be an unforgettable journey.
Afterward, take a short cruise to Kampong Phluk to see the floating villages, where you have an opportunity to learn about life on the water. Tonle Sap Lake is the largest lake in Southeast Asia and offers a unique way of life for those living on Cambodia’s Tonle Sap Lake, which is recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch
- Hotel: Two Seasons Siem Reap Hotel
Day 11: Angkor Sunrise Discovery
Today, you take a short transfer to Angkor Wat in time to see the sunrise. Your guide will take you to the best spots to watch the colorful sunrise. Then, go through the Angkor central complex and learn about the history and symbolism of Angkor Wat.
Once you have discovered Angkor Wat, you will enjoy breakfast just outside the temple area in peaceful surroundings. Afterward, proceed with the bike tour down the trails behind Angkor Park. Follow tracks that take you through small villages and see how the locals go about their daily lives.
As you explore more of the Angkor Archaeological Park, you will continue to uncover many other sites such as Angkor Thom, Bayon, Ta Prohm temple, and many other lesser-known temples embedded deep within the jungle trails. These hidden gems are filled with a rich history that can only be experienced by venturing off the beaten track.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch
- Hotel: Two Seasons Siem Reap Hotel
- Today's ride: 25 kilometers (16 miles)
Day 12: Trip concludes
Your tour comes to an end this morning. There are no activities on your final day, and you are free to leave at any time. Your time is at leisure until your transfer to Siem Reap International Airport for your onward flight and say goodbye to your tour guide.
- Meals: Breakfast
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. There is a full range of bike sizes available for you to choose from, and the helmet is also included in your tour.
E-bike:
Giant Talon E+3 available at a surcharge
This remarkable Giant Talon E+3 offers a balanced and smooth experience, giving you an effortless boost of power while maintaining utmost control. The pedal-assist bikes you use are simple and a joy to ride, enhancing bike touring possibilities for people of all ages and abilities.
Your guide
You will be led by an English-speaking guide who offers local insight, pursues great experiences, and makes every tour exceptional. The guides are well-informed about the local culture, history, and religions of the area where you are biking and are skilled at passing that knowledge on to you.
Support van
A support vehicle that follows the day’s route and will stop at various locations to distribute refreshments, and in case you want a break from riding, you can hop on a van.
Is this trip right for you?
This trip is rated Activity Level "Moderate" and it involves moderate physical activity and is suitable for those with an intermediate level of fitness. It will be a great opportunity to explore the area while challenging yourself with some adventurous activities.
On this trip, you cycle approximately 495 kilometers (308 miles) over nine cycling days and riders are expected to cover an average distance of 50-60 kilometers (31-37 miles) per day. This is an excellent way to explore the area in a sustainable and healthy manner while also taking part in a meaningful experience.
The terrain is remarkably flat which allows you to cycle on a range of surfaces, including tarmac roads (70%) and dirt tracks (30%). This combination allows for a more varied cycling experience whilst also keeping the level of difficulty manageable. You mainly follow quiet backroads, however, sometimes you have to travel on busier roads when leaving the larger towns and Vietnam is generally busier than Cambodia.
Bike and personal equipment
Siem Reaper Travel strongly recommends that you ride a mountain bike for Siem Reaper Travel's trips that involve asphalt, dirt, and backroads, some of which are sandy and rocky. If you are much more comfortable with your own stuff, Siem Reaper Travel highly suggests bringing items such as pedals, saddles, helmets, and water bottles. The mechanic will make adjustments to your bikes and personal belongings.
Bike repairs
The tools and spare parts are carried by your tour guide in the vehicle, along with a full toolkit for the tour. However, it is also gauche for Siem Reaper Travel to carry spares for every eventuality. Therefore, it is necessary that, before departing, you have a quick look at your two-wheeler to see whether it is in good working order.
Safety
Siem Reaper Travel recommends that you wear a helmet on all the biking adventures. This is non-negotiable. If you do not wear a helmet, you will not be allowed to cycle. Your tour guide is trained in first aid and emergency rescue, but to a large degree, you must be responsible for your own safety while riding.
Non-riding activities
On most Siem Reaper trips, they offer non-riding options for riders who want to take the afternoon off, or for travel companions who want to spend little or no time in the saddle. Some of these options may need to be scheduled before your trip. Please send an inquiry for more information. Expenses and/or related transportation for these activities may not be included in the trip price.
Instructors
Sum Sisanoeun
Sum has been a professional tour guide since 2012 and recently joined the Siem Reaper team to further develop his skill set and gain valuable insight into the trade of guiding. With years of experience in the field, he is quickly becoming an integral part of the Siem Reaper team, utilizing his expertise to ensure each tour goes off without a hitch. He loves introducing people to new experiences, cultures, and little-known places. He believes guiding offers him the opportunity to meet new people from all corners of the world and share his story with travelers.
Borith Rin
Siem Reaper’s tour leader and a cycling enthusiast. With his wealth of experience and passion, he sets up himself to share the wonders of his beautiful country and connect people from all over the world. He is an excellent tour guide as he has a desire to share stories of his country. Cycling and travelling are his passions.
Location
You will be arriving to Ho Chi Minh City, and departing from Angkor.
Vietnam and Cambodia backroads
See the world's most stunning landscapes with your own eyes and cycle through Vietnam and Cambodia as if you were right there. The bicycle is an excellent way to avoid crowds and explore off the beaten path in both countries.
Explore the Mekong Delta
Discover the Mekong Delta and beyond by pedaling the quiet backroads. Whether it's a day trip or an extended vacation, you are sure to get closer to the locals with the guide leading you on hassle-free journeys through some of Vietnam's most scenic areas.
Turbulent history of Cambodia
Visit the highlights of Phnom Penh and learn the turbulent history of Cambodia at monuments such as the Silver Pagoda, Genocide Museum, and notorious Killing Fields. Escape the hustle and bustle of the Cambodian capital when you embark on a bicycle adventure to Mekong Islands!
Siem Reap and Angkor
Pedal your way across the historic temple of Angkor and get to know its history from your friendly and professional guide. This is a great way to escape the crowds, yet still get a tour of the hidden dirt trails that weave throughout the majestic site, including Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Bayon, Ta Prohm temple, and more!
Food
Meals are included as per the itinerary. Most meals are local and feature noodles, rice, curries, and soups.
While traveling, you will have the opportunity to not just experience the wide variety of wonderful food available in Vietnam and Cambodia but also get to try some of it too. Your guide will be able to suggest some great restaurants for you to try during your trip.
If you have any specific food requirements (vegetarian, vegan, or food allergies), please inform Siem Reaper Travel in advance so that they can provide a notice to the restaurant or hotel where you will be served.
The included cold water, local snacks, and fresh fruit will keep your energy levels up while you enjoy the tour and ensure that you stay hydrated and well-nourished.
The following meals are included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Snacks
- Drinks
The following drinks are included:
- Water
The following dietary requirement(s) are served and/or catered for:
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten Free
- Regular (typically includes meat and fish)
If you have special dietary requirements it's a good idea to communicate it to the organiser when making a reservation
What's included
- Quality bicycle and helmet
- English-speaking guide
- Must-see attraction and sightseeing
- All admission fees at attractions, temples, and activities as mentioned in the itinerary
- A support vehicle that follows the day’s route and luggage handling
- Airport pick up from Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN)
- Airport drop-off to Siem Reap Angkor International Airport (SAI)
- Daily drinking water, snacks, and cold towels
- Meals mentioned in the itinerary
- 11 nights accommodation
What's not included
- International and domestic flights
- Visa or visa arrangements
- E-bike
- Personal travel insurance
- Sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and protective clothing.
- Camera / video entrance fees
- Personal expenses (drinks, laundry, telephone, tips, etc.)
- Other services not clearly indicated in the package inclusions above
How to get there
Recommended Airports
SGN
Tan Son Nhat International Airport
192 km
Transfer included
Arrival by airplane
Please book your flight to arrive at Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN). Transfers from the airport are included.
Siem Reaper will pick you up from the airport. When you already book your flight, please let Siem Reaper Travel know your flight information one week before arrival so they can arrange the pick-up.
Meeting time will be at 17:00 on day 1, and 12:30 on day 12 (drop off at the airport). You will be dropped off at Siem Reap Angkor International Airport (SAI).
Airport: Tan Son Nhat International Airport
Airport transfer included: Tan Son Nhat International Airport
No additional charges. You can request this in the next step.
Cancellation Policy
- A reservation requires a deposit of 20% of the total price.
- The deposit is non-refundable, if the booking is cancelled.
- The rest of the payment should be paid on arrival.
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