Cycling Vietnam

14 days
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Small Group Tour
Cycle from electric Ho Chi Minh City to the thrilling capital of Hanoi, going beyond the guidebook to experience the true Vietnam. On this immersive adventure, we ride through fishing villages, folding rice terraces and jungle-cloaked mountains, while also climbing the twisting coastal roads of the famed Hai Van Pass. Off-the-bike adventures include an overni...
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$3,335
From$2,470
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Overview

Trip type
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Highlights

    • Discover the best of Vietnam by bike – the most immersive way to experience the country
    • Cycle the famed Hai Van Pass, a challenging climb rewarded with incredible views on the way down
    • Crawl underground through the Cu Chi war tunnels, a poignant reminder of the recent past
    • Relax with two nights at a tropical beachside resort on Whale Island
    • Cruise among the magnificent limestone peaks of Ha Long Bay – a spectacular end to the trip!

What's this trip about?

    Cycle from electric Ho Chi Minh City to the thrilling capital of Hanoi, going beyond the guidebook to experience the true Vietnam. On this immersive adventure, we ride through fishing villages, folding rice terraces and jungle-cloaked mountains, while also climbing the twisting coastal roads of the famed Hai Van Pass. Off-the-bike adventures include an overnight cruise among the spectacular limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay, a two-night stay on the tropical Whale Island and countless interactions with smiling local people. Join us to celebrate Exodus’ 50th anniversary! The departure starting in Ho Chi Minh City on 3 November 2024 features extra inclusions to mark the occasion: an upgraded Ha Long/Lan Ha Bay boat experience with kayaking and sunset drinks, a local birthday celebration and a special edition Exodus kitbag.Ride from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi, witnessing Vietnam’s beauty unfold and interacting with the friendly local people

Details

Itinerary focusClassic Highlights
Group sizeSmall Group - max of 18 people
Age range16 years and up
Flights and transportAll internal ground transport included
Start CityHo Chi Minh
End CityHanoi

Travel Themes

  • Cultural
  • Cycling & Biking
  • National Parks
  • Nature & Wildlife

Destinations

Attractions

  • Hanoi
  • Ho Chi Minh
  • Hoi An
  • Hue
  • Saigon

Activities

  • Culture
  • Cycling
  • Nature

Min Group Size

  • Min Group Size: 6

Max Group Size

  • Max Group Size: 18

Trip includes

    • All breakfasts, nine lunches and one dinner
    • All accommodation
    • All transport and listed activities
    • Tour leader throughout
    • Free arrival and departure transfers for everyone
    • Local bike hire

Popular Trips

Itinerary

Travel Map

Day 1 Start Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is an exciting and absorbing city where bicycles battle with trucks and temples stand defiantly alongside modern developments. Devastated by the Vietnam War, Ho Chi Minh City is now a bustling free market city where anything...

Day 2 Transfer out of the city; cycle to the Cu Chi tunnels

This morning we drive out of the city, before riding to the Cu Chi tunnels. This offers a great introduction to cycling in Vietnam and a chance to fine-tune the bikes. The tunnels were Viet Cong sanctuaries, used by the guerrillas as living quarters and escape routes....

Day 3 Cycle towards the coast and drive to Mui Ne

After an early breakfast we head out of Ho Chi Minh City by bus and then start cycling towards the coast. We hit the backroads and head through tropical fruit and rubber plantations also passing small fishing villages as we make our way closer to the coast finishing o...

Day 4 Cycle to Dalat in the central highlands

We cycle towards Dalat; the route is undulating with occasional climbs. Along the way we pass coffee and tea plantations, flower gardens and pine forests as we reach higher altitude. We rejoin the bus before the road climbs steeply to the mountain town of Dalat. We sp...

Day 5 Cycle through Bidoup National Park; to the coast and boat transfer to Whale Island

Today's ride is predominantly undulating and approximately 19mi (30km) downhill through pine forests and paddy fields as we descend nearly 4,921ft (1,500m) and travel through Bidoup Ba National Park. This area is home to rare pine forests, plus small villages inhabite...

Day 6 Cruise around islands with seafood lunch and snorkelling

Today we relax and unwind. We join a boat trip in the morning for a spot of snorkelling and sea swimming before a seafood lunch. In the afternoon, you have the option to visit a local fishing village, see the Whale temple or walk around the island to the viewpoint for...

Day 7 Coastal ride to Quy Nhon

We set off early in the morning and first take a short transfer from Whale Island through Dai Lanh and Ca Pass before setting off on our bikes at Vung Ro Bay, where we ride along the coast to Tuy Hoa and O Loan Lagoon to Chi Thanh. In Chi Thanh, we stop for lunch and ...

Day 8 Further coastal ride stopping en route at dunes; then transfer to Hoi An

Leaving Quy Nhon, we travel through a new economic zone over the Thi Nai peninsula and Nhon Hoi Bridge, the longest sea bridge in Vietnam. Getting off our bikes, we visit a market, where it's not unusual to be pulled aside for a photo as this part of the country does ...

Day 9 Sightseeing in Hoi An; free afternoon

This morning we take a guided walking tour of Hoi An to explore some of the structures of historical significance in the Old Town, including bridges, temples, wells and houses. Those less interested in architecture can cycle the 3mi (5km) to the lovely Cua Dai beach o...

Day 10 Ride over the spectacular Hai Van Pass; cycle and drive on to Hue

Today we turn north again for the drive/cycle to Hue. The route traverses over the spectacular Hai Van Pass – the Pass of the Ocean Clouds. The views are stunning, though those who prefer to avoid the 1,903ft (580m) climb can always take a lift in the support vehicle....

Day 11 Explore Hue and surroundings by bike and boat; overnight train to Hanoi

Hue is often claimed to be the cultural and historic centre of Vietnam and there is plenty to see. We take a guided tour of the city and surrounding tombs. The most memorable site is the citadel, with walls 6mi (10km) in length: inside are the palaces and halls of the...

Day 12 Arrive Hanoi; drive to Ha Long Bay; board boat and cruise/kayak among spectacular limestone formations

We usually arrive in Hanoi in the early morning and stop for a local breakfast and a stretch of the legs, before we are met by our bus for an approximate four-hour drive to Ha Long Bay. This is one of the most beautiful sights in South East Asia with around 3,000 lime...

Day 13 Further cruising in Ha Long Bay; return to Hanoi

Visit Me Cung cave and enjoy further time cruising the many islands of Ha Long Bay. We then return to Hanoi in the late afternoon. This charming city contains many beautiful old buildings and the atmosphere is completely different from that in Ho Chi Minh City, mainly...

Day 14 End Hanoi

It’s been an unforgettable cycling adventure through Vietnam, but this morning marks the last breakfast of the tour. It’s a great opportunity to reflect on all that you’ve seen and achieved and, perhaps, to start planning your next big adventure.

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Dates & Availability

Price From $2,470
Price per day$176
Last Updated: 5/22/2024

Check current availability, prices, specials & more.

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

Exodus Travels Reviews & Ratings

4.7/5  Excellent
Excellent
13,310
Great
3,258
Average
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Disappointing
146
Terrible
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A

Anonymous

Oct 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

What a Fantastic Experience

I signed up for this on a whim, having done the standard Exodus Vietnam trip 5 years ago. I thoroughly enjoyed that trip but saw no reason to return. This trip cau...

A

Anonymous

Oct 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Cycling Vietnam

Cycling Vietnam was an amazing and fun trip from start to finish. Beautiful scenery and varied landscapes with a good mix of urban and rural cycling. Delicious ...

A

Anonymous

Oct 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Fantastic

There wasn't one moment when I regretted my decision to join this trip - it was wonderful from start to finish. Fascinating country, warm and welcoming people, su...

A

Anonymous

Oct 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

CYCLING HO CHI MIN TO HANOI

Cycling Vietnam was an excellent way of seeing the countryside and meeting the local Vietnamese people who were extremely friendly and always willing to help. The ...

A

Anonymous

Oct 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Very well organise and planned. Our group was friendly and supportive

Enjoyed every day. Great group. Stepping out of my comfort zone in a supported environment. Very good. Worked well with group. Very organised . Take part in the ...

Write a Review

Other Exodus Travels Reviews

A

Annie O'Reilly Hughes

Nov 2024

Written on
Exodus Travels Company Reviewsby Exodus Travels

Patient and knowledgeable operative

Rick was really helpful and patient. He explained things clearly, was happy to answer questions. It is a long time since I last travelled solo but I felt confident t...

T

Trevor Butler

Nov 2024

Written on
Exodus Travels Company Reviewsby Exodus Travels

Very professional organisation

Very professional organisation, trip leaders and guides. Good cultural ethics and a genuine interest in sustainable tourism, hence Exodus values are aligned to my o...

S

Sarah R

Nov 2024

Written on
Exodus Travels Company Reviewsby Exodus Travels

India, the Tropical South

An excellent trip, we really enjoyed it and would highly recommend. Our guide Biju deserves a special thank you for being brilliant, he really adds to the experience...

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Tour Operator

Exodus Travels

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It is all about adventure. That is what Exodus was founded upon and what the company is still all about. Discovering countries, cultures, environments, cities, mountain ranges, deserts, coasts and jungles; exploring this amazing planet we all live on.

At Exodus, we know what makes you tick when it comes to holidays. It’s a desire shared by so many others. A yearning to visit new places and come home with a real sense of what they’re all about. This means delving into local traditions, cultures, cuisine, lifestyles – anything that contributes to its unique identity. At the same time, we always remember that we are only guests. So we travel courteously and respectfully, in smaller groups to minimise our impact, to ensure that every Exodus holiday is a beneficial experience for everyone involved.

This is a philosophy we take with us around the world, helping you reach some incredible destinations on 500 itineraries across over 90 separate countries. We also strive to provide as much flexibility and choice as we possibly can, making it simple for you to experience a very different holiday.

Exodus started life on 4 February 1974 when two friends got together to provide an overland truck to travel to the Minaret of Jam, deep in the heart of the Hindu Kush, the most inaccessible of the world’s great monuments.

All our office staff have a passion for travel and adventure, and between us we’ve notched up experience that spans 171 different countries. That’s not all. In their former lives, our team members have been professional archaeologists, wildlife guides, overland drivers, mountain leaders, diving and ski specialists and mountain bike gurus – so no-one is better placed to create tours that appeal to a wide range of specialist interests.

Their care in putting all the details in place really shines through too. Extensive planning, research, fact-finding and training are a sign of our commitment to providing a holiday where your enjoyment, value for money and safety come first. It’s a telling reason why we remain one of the leading worldwide adventure tour companies. It is no exaggeration to say that our tour leaders can make a world of difference to the enjoyment of your holiday – so we choose them carefully. The result is that, in 2013, 93% of our clients stated that their leader exceeded their expectations. Where possible, we train and employ local leaders because they can provide invaluable insights that enrich the trip. What’s more, this investment in local staff really helps us benefit both them and their community.

Why we love this operator
With a wide range of trip styles, Exodus caters to every type of traveler out there- even those with specific interests from cycling to winter hiking.
What they’re known for
Global trips to a wide array of destinations with a focus on themed adventures, exciting physical activities and learning about local cultures.

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Logistics

What's excluded

    • Travel insurance
    • Single accommodation (available on request – hotel nights only)
    • Visas or vaccinations
    • E-bike hire

Accommodation

11 nights comfortable hotels, 1 night boat with twin share cabins, all en suite 1 night sleeper train, soft-bed berths 8 days cycling with 90% vehicle support Surfaces are nearly all good tarmac The route is flat with the exception of Dalat and the Hai Van Pass
The accommodation on this trip is wonderfully varied. We stay in unique hotels (mostly three/four-star) for nine nights and a laid-back tropical island resort for two nights. We also spend one night on a junk-style boat cruising Ha Long Bay and, finally, have one night on the Reunification Express, a sleeper train that takes us from Hue to Hanoi. Below are a few of the standout accommodations on this trip: Whale Island Resort Our two-night stay on Whale Island is regarded as a highlight for many, though it is relatively basic. We stay in thatched bamboo bungalows, each with mosquito nets, fans and private bathrooms. The simplicity of island life and a secluded spot makes it idyllic, but be prepared for it to be a bit different to the hotels used for the rest of the trip. Ha Long Bay cruise Board a traditional junk-style boat to cruise among the magnificent limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay. Each of the twin-share cabins has air conditioning and a window out to sea, while the boat has a rooftop deck with chairs – this is where most of our travellers tend to gather for views over the bay. There’s also a dining room with glass windows so we can continue to admire this extraordinary landscape during lunch and dinner.   Reunification Express Our sleeper train takes us from Hue to Hanoi – a classic journey in this part of the world. It’s an essential part of the tour, linking two special destinations without resorting to flying or a lengthy coach trip. However, trains in Vietnam are not luxurious and it’s best to come prepared to maximise your experience – we’ve found extra warm layers to combat the air conditioning and ear plugs can provide a little more comfort! We stay in soft-bed berths, usually four passengers per berth. The trains here are safe but, as with any trip, we recommend you keep valuables with you. Snacks are normally offered on board and most trains have Western-style facilities, but some are equipped with squat toilets. Worth knowing Single supplements are available (on request) but only for 11 nights of the trip (hotel/resort nights). Please advise your sales representative at the time of booking if you would like to request a single supplement. The accommodation listed in each location on the day-to-day itinerary are the standard hotels used. However, there may be some departures where groups stay at similar hotels of the same standard and quality.
Cancellation policy

The cancellation policies of this trip when booked through Travelstride are determined by the stated policies of the tour operator - Exodus Travels.

If you or any other member of your party decides to cancel a confirmed booking you must notify Travelstride in writing. Your notice of cancellation will only take effect when it is received in writing by Travelstride and will be effective from the date on which we receive it.

If You Cancel Your Holiday
You, or any member of your party, may cancel your travel arrangements at any time. Written notification from the lead name or your travel agent must be received at our offices. 

Since we incur costs in canceling your travel arrangements, you will have to pay cancellation charges as follows (see also the exceptions below): 

  • More than 42 days - No cancellation fee. Deposit can be transferred to a new booking departing within 2 years of date of travel of original booking. Any remaining balance will be refundedThis excludes all non-refundable costs as set out in clause 4 above (for example international and domestic flights and local services).
  • Between 41 and 21 days (inclusive) - No cancellation fee. Balance and deposit can be transferred to a new booking departing within 2 years of date of travel of original bookingThis excludes all non-refundable costs as further explained in clause 4 above (for example international and domestic flights and local services).
  • Between 20 and 15 days (inclusive) - 80% of the holiday cost
  • 14 days or less; or failure to join the holiday (inclusive) - 100% of the holiday cost

Certain trips may involve different cancellation charges; you will be advised if this is applicable to your holiday during the booking process.For Polar holidays, the following cancellation charges will be made for all Polar holidays. Period before departure in which you notify us: 

Cancelation charge

  • More than 133 days - Deposit only
  • 133 days or less (or failure to join the holiday) (inclusive) - 100% of the holiday cost

Notes (i) Your deposit is non-refundable, even if the cancellation charge calculated is lower than the deposit amount paid; (ii) If the reason for your cancellation is covered under the terms of your insurance policy, you may be able to reclaim these charges; (iii) certain travel arrangements may be subject to higher cancellation charges and could incur a cancellation charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements from the moment the booking is confirmed.

If You Change Your Booking

If, after our Booking Confirmation has been issued, you wish to change your travel arrangements in any way, for example your chosen departure date or accommodation, we will do our utmost to make these changes but it may not always be possible. Any request for changes to be made must be in writing from the lead name or your travel agent. You will be asked to pay an administration charge of $60, and any further cost we incur in making this alteration (including those charged by third party suppliers who provide the component parts of your booking).  You should be aware that these costs could increase the closer to the departure date that changes are made and you should contact us as soon as possible. Note: Certain travel arrangements may not be changeable after a reservation has been made and any alteration request could incur a cancellation charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements.

You can transfer your booking to another person, who satisfies all the conditions that apply to this booking, by giving us notice in writing at least 7 days before departure provided that the new lead passenger accepts the transfer and these Terms and Conditions. Both you and the new traveler are responsible for paying all costs we incur in making the transfer. Please bear in mind that certain airlines and other transport providers treat changes as a cancellation and charge accordingly, up to 100% of the cost for that part of the arrangement. Where applicable these charges will be passed on to you.

If We Cancel Your Booking

Exodus reserves the right to cancel an itinerary before departure for any reason whatsoever, including too few participants ,logistical problems, a Force Majeure Event (as defined in Section 8), or any other circumstances that may make operation of the trip inadvisable. All trip payments received will be promptly refunded, and this refund will be the limit of Exodus’s liability without any further obligation on Exodus’s part. Exodus is not responsible for any expenses incurred by trip members in preparing for the trip, including non-refundable or penalty-carrying airline tickets, special clothing, visa or passport fees, or other trip-related expenses.

If We Change Your Booking

  1. Changes to the price. We can change your holiday price after you’ve booked, only in certain circumstances. Changes in the price of the carriage of passengers resulting from changes to the cost of fuel or other power sources, the level of taxes or fees imposed by third parties including tourist taxes, landing taxes or embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports and airports, or exchange rates mean that the price of your travel arrangements may change after you have booked.

  2. Changes other than the price. It is a term of your booking that we are able to make changes to any aspect of your booking. If the change is insignificant, we will ensure that you are notified about it. Examples of insignificant changes include alteration of your accommodation to another of the same or higher standard. If we are forced by circumstances beyond our control to alter significantly any of the main characteristics of the travel services that make up your package you will have the rights set out below.

    2.1 - We will contact you and you will have the choice of accepting the change or having a refund of all monies paid. You can also accept an alternative holiday, where we offer one (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value). We will tell you the procedure for making your choice. Please read any notification of changes carefully and respond promptly as if you do not respond to us within the timescale given your booking may be canceled.

    2.2 - If you choose to accept a refund then that is the only liability we have and we will not be liable for any further sums, compensation or otherwise and you are advised to adequately insure yourselves against cancellation for any reason

Please note that insurance premiums and amendments charges are not refundable in any circumstances. 

Once you have put down a deposit for a tour, you are unable to cancel and re-book within a promotional period and we reserve the right to amend the pricing on any new booking you make within that time. If you cancel a tour and book the same tour under a promotional code, we reserve the right to decline the booking.

Important Note: Certain arrangements may not be amended after they have been confirmed and any alteration or cancellation could incur a cancellation charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements in addition to the charge above.

If the reason for your cancellation is covered under the terms of your insurance policy, you may be able to reclaim these charges.

Where possible, we will deduct the cancellation charge(s) from any monies you have already paid to us.

For more additional details, see the booking conditions of TruTravels at the following web address: https://www.exodustravels.com/us/about-exodus/exodus-booking-conditions.

Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance alongside your travel package to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances such as medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other contingencies. It offers you peace of mind and ensures you are prepared for unexpected events that may occur before or during your journey
Visa requirements
Visa requirements vary depending on your country of origin and your country of destination. It is your responsibility to familiarize yourself with the relevant requirements. For a handy tool that can help you quickly find the requirements, please visit this link .
Meals Included
All breakfasts, nine lunches and one dinner are included. Thanks to the tropical climate, the long coast and the gigantic range of mountains, Vietnam is blessed with numerous varieties of culinary offerings and consequently maintains its reputation as one of the healthiest cuisines in the world that still packs a punch with delicious, fresh and fiery flavours. Vietnamese food relies on fresh fish, vegetables, rice and a myriad of verdant herbs and spices; lemongrass, ginger, basil and lime all play an important role in the cuisine. The Chinese and French influence is felt throughout the country where you are just as likely to be offered a banh mi (stuffed baguette) as you are a hot steaming bowl of pho (noodle soup). Each dish is prepared with the Asian principle of Wu Xing in mind (the five elements); meaning that the perfect combination of spicy, sour, bitter, salty and sweet is the ultimate aim. Be sure to also seek out the national beverages; Vietnamese coffee is served iced and sweet with condensed milk, a real sugar and caffeine hit, and beer hoi (local beer, brewed daily) is served on most street corners in the north out of large plastic jugs that are perfect for sharing. Food is cheap in Vietnam and you can generally avoid the spicier food if you wish. Western food is readily available almost everywhere. Vegetarians are well catered for but please inform us before departure of any special dietary requests. Please note that in South East Asia the availability of certain specialised products for restricted diets, eg gluten-free or dairy-free, is minimal or non-existent and we strongly recommend you bring these specialised dietary items from home. You may find it beneficial to bring ‘cycling snacks’ with you from home if you have high-energy bars or gels that you like to use during a ride. For those who wish to contribute, a kitty is normally arranged – fresh fruit, nuts, biscuits and local snacks are all provided from the snacking kitty along with homemade lemonade if the season is right.
Age Requirements
16 years and up
Additional Information
  • Accommodation: 4 Superior nights (hotels), 8 Classic nights (7 hotel, 1 boat), 1 Simple night (sleeper train)
  • Nine days cycling (including one optional ride) with 90 percent vehicle support
  • Roads nearly all well paved
  • The route is generally flat with some undulation with the exception of Dalat and the Hai Van Pass
  • Group normally five to 18, plus local leaders
  • Angkor Wat Extension (from Siem Reap) available to book pre tour
  • Limited number of e-bikes available for an additional cost
Trip ID
exodus-MOV

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