Ho Chi Minh to Angkor Wat Cycle

Land Tour

12 days

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Ho Chi Minh to Angkor Wat Cycle
  • About
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  • Itinerary
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$AUD 277 per day

Departure: Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam

Cycling is one of the very best ways to experience the diverse scenery and rural cultures of Southeast Asia, and continuing our tradition of pioneering cycle trips, this unique itinerary takes us from the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City through traditional rural villages to the iconic temple complex of Angkor Wat. Our comfortable modern bikes, support crew and steady pace mean that you’ll be free to enjoy the stunning scenery along the way, with our backup vehicle available to give tired riders a break at any time. Our journey begins in fast-paced Ho Chi Minh City, which we leave behind for quieter back roads to the Cu Chi Tunnels and on into the Mekong Delta region, the ‘rice bowl of Vietnam’. A vast wetland expanse of floating markets, Khmer pagodas and villages surrounded by rice paddies and flooded forests. Crossing through to Cambodia by boat, we’ll explore the highlights of Phnom Penh before heading north toward Siem Reap, the gateway to Angkor. Discover the enchanting ancient temple complex of Angkor Wat by bike and experience stilted village life on the Tonle Sap, or Great Lake.
About
11 breakfasts, 10 lunches and 3 dinners
modern mountain bikes
airport transfers on day 1 & day 12
expert bilingual guide
medical kit
comfortable well located hotels
private and support vehicles
sightseeing as listed in itinerary
national park & site entry fees
Hightlights
Experience the bustling streets and markets in Ho Chi Minh City
Eye-opening wartime history at the Cu Chi tunnels
Floating markets, villages and waterways of the Mekong River Delta
Admire the iconic temples of Angkor by bike
Learn about Cambodia's recent history in Phnom Penh
Supported cycling through some of Southeast Asia’s most stunning landscapes

Gallery
Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City
Xin chao! Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City.
Upon your arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, if you are arriving on day 1, you will be warmly greeted by your driver and transferred to your hotel. Take some time to settle in and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Vietnam's largest city.
Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is the dynamic economic heart of the country, blending modernity with rich cultural heritage. As you explore, you’ll discover a captivating mix of ancient traditions and contemporary energy that will quickly dispel any lingering jetlag.
In the late afternoon, join your guide in the hotel lobby for a trip briefing, followed by a welcome dinner to start your adventure.
Overnight: Queen Ann Hotel or similar
Day 2 - Cu Chi Tunnels & City Tour (cycle approx. 1-2 hours)
This morning, you’ll head out on a short bus ride to Hoc Mon town, where you’ll hop on your bike and cycle through scenic rice paddies and rubber plantations en route to the famous Cu Chi Tunnels. This fascinating network of underground passages and chambers served as the Viet Cong’s base and living quarters during the Vietnam War. You’ll learn about life underground and even have the chance to explore some of the tunnels on foot.
After a local lunch, you’ll return to Ho Chi Minh City for an afternoon of sightseeing. Your first stop is the Reunification Palace, an iconic example of 1960s architecture and the site where the Vietnam War ended in 1975. From there, you’ll visit the Notre Dame Cathedral, a grand neo-Romanesque church, and the Saigon Post Office, a beautiful French colonial building.
To finish the day, you might like to visit the to Ben Thanh Market, a bustling hub filled with everything from fresh produce to souvenirs. Whether you’re shopping or just soaking up the atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to end an exciting day.
Cycling: +/- ~ 25km//15mi, mostly flat, +30m/98ft, -31m/100ft
Driving: +/- ~ 70km / 3hrs
Overnight: Queen Ann Hotel or similar
Day 3 - Cycle to Vinh Long (cycle approx. 4-5 hours)
Today, to avoid the busy city roads, you’ll start the morning with an approximate 2hr car transfer towards the Mekong Delta. Once at the starting point, you’ll hop on your bikes and pedal along the tranquil rural roads of this picturesque region. The Mekong Delta, known for its friendly locals, offers a unique glimpse into daily life centred around agriculture and traditional crafts.
After about 20km/13mi, you’ll take a break for a light picnic lunch at a charming garden café. In the afternoon, you’ll cycle south for around 40 km/25mi, crossing the mighty river from one island to another by ferry, before arriving at a local guesthouse where you’ll settle in for the night.
Cycling: +/- ~ 60km//37mi, mostly flat, +16m/53ft, -20m/65ft
Driving: +/- ~ 70km / 2hrs
Overnight: Vinh Long local guesthouse
Day 4 - Cycle to Can Tho (cycle approx. 5-7 hours)
After breakfast, you’ll set off on your bikes, heading south to the heart of the Mekong Delta, in the Tam Binh region. Riding at a leisurely pace along quiet backroads, you’ll have the chance to soak up the serene surroundings, making stops along the way to sip tea with locals and enjoy some snacks. A traditional lunch will be served at a welcoming local's home, offering a deeper insight into their way of life.
At Tra On, you’ll board a boat for a relaxing 1.5-hour cruise along the Hau River, heading upstream to Can Tho, the largest city in the Mekong Delta. Upon arrival in Can Tho, you’ll transfer to your hotel for check-in and a chance to refresh. The rest of the day is yours to spend at leisure.
Please note: The boat from Tra On to Can Tho operates based on river water levels and may not be available daily. If the boat is not running, we will transfer by vehicle for approximately 40 kilometres to Can Tho.
Cycling: ~60km
Driving: ~ 0km or 40km depending on boat availability
Overnight: Iris Can Tho Hotel or similar
Day 5 - Cycle to Long Xuyen (cycle approx. 5-6 hours)
Rise early this morning to explore the Cai Rang floating market, a quintessential experience in the delta. After returning to the hotel for breakfast, you’ll ride along the scenic roads winding up the Hau River, heading northwest towards Long Xuyen—a vibrant market town known for its bustling trade in fish, rice, and cashew nuts.
Along the way, you’ll visit the Bang Lang Stork Garden, a 1.3-hectare bird sanctuary offering breathtaking views of thousands of resident storks and snowy egrets. From the tall viewing platform, you can watch these magnificent birds fill the branches. You'll end the day in Long Xuyen, settling into a comfortable and authentic local hotel for the night.
Cycling: ~60km
Overnight: Hoa Binh Hotel or similar
Day 6 - Cycle to Chau Doc (cycle approx. 5-6 hours)
After breakfast, you will head 60 kilometres west by car to the starting point of today’s ride.
You will cycle 50 kilometres to Chau Doc, stopping at the Ba Chuc Memorial, a poignant reminder of the Khmer Rouge massacre in 1978. Continuing along the Cambodian border, you will arrive at Tra Su Cajuput Forest, where you’ll explore the stunning nature reserve and bird sanctuary.
On arrival in Chau Doc, you will check into your hotel and have time to freshen up. In the evening, you will enjoy a special farewell dinner with your Vietnamese tour leader, celebrating the end of your adventure in Vietnam.
Cycling: ~50km
Overnight: Hung Cuong Hotel or similar
Day 7 - Boat to Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Today, you’ll take a break from cycling and catch the early morning boat across the Vinh Xuong/Kaam Samnor border into Cambodia, arriving in its bustling capital, Phnom Penh. Please note that Cambodian e-visas are not accepted at this crossing, so the group will use the straightforward visa-on-arrival service.
In the 1950s and 60s, Phnom Penh was known as the ‘Pearl of Asia,’ inspiring cities like Singapore with its innovative urban planning and architecture. Despite the setbacks of war and revolution, it’s now reclaiming its status as one of Southeast Asia’s thriving cities, with a vibrant cafe culture, lively bars, and an exceptional food scene. The city offers a mix of experiences, from the inspiring National Museum to the sobering Khmer Rouge sites, reflecting both the highs and lows of Cambodia’s history.
After checking into your comfortable city-centre accommodation, you’ll head out for a tuk-tuk tour and your first taste of Khmer cuisine. You’ll visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a former high school that was repurposed as Security Prison 21 (S-21) by the Khmer Rouge from 1975 to 1979. Then, explore the Royal Palace, one of Phnom Penh’s highlights, with its striking Silver Pagoda, built in 1962, renowned for its silver-tiled floor and impressive collection of Buddha statues made from precious metals and gems.
We then return to the hotel onboard our tuk-tuks, and you’ll have the evening at leisure.
Important Note: To enter the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, visitors must wear appropriate attire—trousers or shorts covering the knees and tops covering the shoulders. Entry may be denied for wearing revealing clothing.
Overnight: Ohana Hotel or similar
Boat: +/- ~ 4.5hrs
Day 8 - To Siem Reap (cycle approx. 1-2 hours)
After breakfast, you’ll travel by private bus north to Siem Reap, passing through picturesque countryside. Along the way, you’ll stop at Sambor Prei Kuk, a stunning collection of 7th-century temple ruins that once served as the capital of the pre-Angkorian Chenla Kingdom.
Here, you’ll enjoy a home-cooked lunch before hopping on simple local bicycles for a leisurely ride around the village and temple ruins. Afterwards, you’ll continue your journey to Siem Reap, arriving by late afternoon.
The evening is yours to explore at your own pace—you might choose to wander through the bustling, narrow lanes of the old town and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
Drive: ~6hrs / 370km
Cycling: ~ 15km
Overnight: Angkor Holiday Hotel or similar
Day 9 - Cycle the Temples of Angkor (cycle approx. 5-6 hours)
The Angkor temples are the undeniable highlight of any visit to Cambodia, and today you’ll have a full day to explore the iconic Angkor Archaeological Park by bike—a fantastic way to experience this breathtaking site.
To beat the crowds, you’ll start early with a short car transfer to the outskirts of the complex, where you’ll hop onto a mountain bike for an extraordinary 40-kilometre ride. This route will take you along the backroads of the park, visiting three of the most significant sites:
Bayon: The crown jewel of Angkor Thom, this 12th-century masterpiece is known for its stunning bas-reliefs and 54 towers adorned with 216 giant faces.
Ta Prohm: A photographer’s dream, this temple has been left in much the same condition as when it was rediscovered, with massive trees intertwined with its ruins, creating an atmospheric and hauntingly beautiful scene.
Angkor Wat: The ultimate expression of Khmer architecture, Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world and has captivated visitors for centuries.
You’ll also have the chance to cycle along the top of Angkor Thom’s ancient city walls, stopping for photos and learning more about these monumental structures from your guide. As you navigate single trails through the dense forest, you might even spot some hidden temples lost among the trees. Lunch will be served in a lovely outdoor setting within the park.
This evening, you’re in for a special treat with a performance by Phare, The Cambodian Circus. Known for their unique blend of theatre, music, and acrobatics, Phare tells captivating stories that reflect both traditional folklore and modern Cambodian life. This non-profit organisation provides training in the performing arts to disadvantaged youth and is renowned on the international stage.
Important Note: When visiting the temples of Angkor, please ensure you wear appropriate attire—bottoms covering the knees and tops covering the shoulders—as these are sacred sites. Visitors not dressed appropriately may be denied entry.
Cycling: ~40km
Driving: ~30km
Overnight: Angkor Holiday Hotel or similar
Day 10 - Remote Temples
After breakfast, you head out to Roluos group, located just outside Siem Reap. The temples date back to the late ninth century and are believed to denote the beginning of the ‘classic period’ in Khmer architecture. Afterwards, we continue to ride on backroads through beautiful Khmer villages and countryside towards Beng Mealea, a sprawling jungle temple covering over a square km. This temple is largely overrun by vegetation and less frequently visited, giving it an adventurous, ‘lost temple’ feel. Trees growing from the moss covered towers and galleries offer some fantastic opportunities for photography.
Cycling: ~70 km
Driving: ~70 km
Overnight: Angkor Holiday Hotel or similar
Day 11 - Stilted Villages
After breakfast, we ride toward the vast wetlands on the edge of Asia's largest freshwater lake, Tonle Sap. The lake's size and depth increases with the annual monsoon rains by as much as six times and local people have found ingenious ways to live with the ever changing water world. Kampong Kleang is a stilted village settlement of over 20,000 people where structures tower up to ten metres above the water. Here you can learn about the lives of the subsistence fishing families who call this water world home. In the afternoon, we return to our hotel in Siem Reap. This evening, enjoy dinner with a traditional Apsara dance performance.
Note: From March to August/September water levels of the Tonle Sap Lake can reduce dramatically and may result in an amended itinerary.
Cycling: ~60 km
Driving: ~60 km
Overnight: Angkor Holiday Hotel or similar
Day 12 - In Siem Reap, trip concludes
The morning is free at leisure in Siem Reap until the airport transfer for your outbound flight. Trip concludes.
Location

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