Saigon to Bangkok
Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand Bike Tours
Explore three Southeast Asian countries by bike.
- Skill Level
- Length14 days
- Prices from$3775 Rates
Overview
This bike tour in Southeast Asia explores three fascinating countries: Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand.
Beginning in Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon, this adventure dleads into the "water world" of the Mekong Delta: Vietnam's rice bowl - a unique, lush, agricultural wonderland. Although it is a densely populated area, you will cycle quiet back roads lined with coconut trees and bamboo, passing lotus flower ponds. A serene beauty awaits.
You enter Cambodia by boat, en route to Phnom Penh, on one of Asia's great rivers, the Mekong. In the final stage of this adventure, you cross into Thailand at a small immigration point nestled in the mountains. Cycling a shortcut then to the main road, you are then transferred to the beach to enjoy a much-needed rest.
Combining three countries together in one tour gives great insight into Southeast Asia, its culture, its scenery, and its wonderful and friendly people.
Highlights
- Siem Reap
- Colonial city of Battambang
- Temples of Kampong Thom
- Angkor
- Mekong River
- Floating market
If this trip isn't quite your speed, check out all of our bike tours in Vietnam and Thailand.
Itinerary
Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City
Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City - Ben Tre - Tra Vinh, 46 mi, (74 km)
Day 3: Tra Vinh - Can Tho, 48 mi. (78 km)
Day 4: Can Tho - Chau Doc, 34 mi. (56 km)
Day 5: Chau Doc - Phnom Penh
Day 6: Phnom Penh - Oudong - Kampong Thom, 29 mi. (47 km)
Day 7: Kampong Thom - Siem Reap, 40 mi. (65 km)
Day 8: Angkor temples, 26 mi. (42 km)
Day 9: Siem Reap Countryside, 34 mi. (54 km)
Day 10: Siem Reap - Battambang
Day 11: Battambang - Pailin, 34 mi. (54 km)
Day 12: Battambang - Thai Border - Chanthaburi 13 mi. (22 km)
Day 13: Chantaburi - Laem Mae Phim, 36 mi. (58 km)
Day 14: Laem Mae Phim - BangkokThis cycling adventure goes beyond the beaten track and the rides are not always predictable. Due to these reasons, it is occasionally necessary to reroute or update itineraries. The guarantee a trip will not be changed unless for safety or to improve it.
Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City
Meet at Northern Hotel, Ho Chi Minh City, the pulse of this emerging country. Here, your guide will give you a briefing of the tour at around 6 pm. You will have an opportunity to test out the bikes before heading to dinner at one of the city's finest restaurants. (D)Accommodation: Nhat Ha L'Opera Hotel
Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City - Ben Tre - Tra Vinh, 46 mi, (74 km)
Escape the bustling concrete jungle of Saigon and embark on a captivating 2.5-hour journey into the heart of the Mekong Delta. This stunning region is characterized by lush greenery and winding waterways that stretch towards the East Vietnam Sea. Starting in the vibrant city of Ben Tre, you'll quickly adapt to the dynamic Vietnamese road culture, where motorbikes zip by.Crossing the picturesque Ham Luong River, you'll enter a tranquil world filled with coconut farms, banana plantations, and sugarcane fields. Explore charming hamlets nestled alongside crisscrossing canals and rivers as you travel along narrow farm roads. Your adventure includes several small bridge crossings and two local ferry rides, with the second ferry taking you across the expansive Co Chien River.
Arriving in the city of Tra Vinh, you'll settle in for the night in a place rich with cultural influences from both Vietnamese and Cambodian (Khmer) heritage. Experience the unique blend of traditions that have shaped this region long before modern borders were established. Join us for an unforgettable journey through the enchanting Mekong Delta! (B,L,D)
Accommodation: Cuu Long Hotel
Elevation gain/loss: +632 m/-628 mDay 3: Tra Vinh - Can Tho, 48 mi. (78 km)
Departing from Tra Vinh, you head westward through the fertile floodplain between the Cho Chien and Hau Rivers, two key tributaries of the Mekong. This scenic route showcases a stunning patchwork of rice paddies, solidifying the Mekong Delta's reputation as Vietnam’s “rice bowl.”Vibrant daily life unfolds along the way, featuring a harmonious blend of fields, waterways, fruit orchards, villages, and towns. Numerous Khmer-style Buddhist temples highlight the region's rich Cambodian heritage.
After nearly 80 km, you reach the outskirts of Can Tho where a brief transfer allows you to avoid the bustling city traffic. As the largest city in the Mekong Delta, Can Tho serves as a hub of waterborne culture and commerce, offering a unique glimpse into this captivating region’s lifestyle. (B,L,D)
Accommodation: Iris Hotel Can Tho/Ninh Kieu 2 Hotel
Elevation gain/loss: +422 m/-434 mDay 4: Can Tho - Chau Doc, 34 mi. (56 km)
An early start begins with a boat ride to Cai Rang, the Mekong Delta’s largest floating wholesale market. Experience the lively atmosphere as vendors navigate their colorful boats, showcasing goods on tall poles. Enjoy morning coffee, rice noodles, and fresh fruit from the comfort of the chartered boat. Once back on land, it’s time for a final 35 km bike ride through the lush Mekong Delta. Afterward, a support vehicle fast-tracks to the Cambodian border, followed by a shorter afternoon ride to Chau Doc. Along the way, visit the Ba Chuc genocide memorial site, honoring the victims of the Khmer Rouge atrocities in 1978. The ride concludes along country roads with gentle mountains in the background. (B,L,D)Accommodation: Chau Po Hotel
Elevation gain/loss: +456 m/-452 mDay 5: Chau Doc - Phnom Penh
In the early morning, a speedboat cruise up the Mekong River begins. Shortly after departing from Chau Doc, immigration formalities at the Cambodian border are completed. The comfortable 5-6 hour journey allows for observation of daily life along the riverbanks. Arriving in Phnom Penh, Cambodia's vibrant capital, in time for lunch, the afternoon is dedicated to exploring the city. While known for its poignant genocide memorial sites, the focus is on Phnom Penh’s bright side. A rickshaw ride takes visitors from the riverside to the Royal Palace, the King of Cambodia's official residence, showcasing stunning architecture and art. After touring this glittering complex, enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure, with optional visits available. (B,L,D)Accommodation: Frangipani Royal Palace Hotel
Day 6: Phnom Penh - Oudong - Kampong Thom, 29 mi. (47 km)
Navigating out of Phnom Penh by bike can be challenging due to the city’s chaotic traffic, but a ferry ride across the river takes cyclists to a peninsula between the Tonle Sap and Mekong Rivers. From there, a route through riverside neighborhoods leads to the northern suburbs, transitioning into the countryside after about 30 km. Experience the charm of rural Cambodia while cycling through villages with stilt houses, farms, and friendly locals cheering along the way. The ride concludes at Oudong, where a complex of Buddhist stupas sits atop a ridge. Once Cambodia’s capital, the site requires climbing 400 steps for stunning views. After your visit, enjoy lunch nearby before transferring 3-4 hours to the tranquil town of Kampong Thom for the night. (B,L,D)Accommodation: Sambor Village/Glorious Hotel and Spa
Elevation gain/loss: +263 m /-207 mDay 7: Kampong Thom - Siem Reap, 40 mi. (65 km)
Starting from the hotel, the ride along the scenic Stueng Saen River begins. After 8 km, the route crosses the river via a small ferry or makeshift bridge, depending on water levels, then continues north along quiet country roads through Cambodia’s fertile floodplain. Experience rural Cambodia as you cycle through charming villages and vast rice fields. After covering 40 km, arrive at the ancient UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sambor Prei Kuk, home to brick temples entwined with tree roots, connected by sandy paths—a perfect spot for some mountain biking. After exploring the temples, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before completing the final 15 km to the main road. A 2-hour transfer follows to Siem Reap, the “gateway to Angkor,” where three nights will be spent. (B,L,D)Accommodation: Steung Siem Reap Hotel
Elevation gain/loss: +341 m /-342 mDay 8: Angkor temples, 26 mi. (42 km)
The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor features the former capital cities of the Khmer Empire, where lavish stone temples were built from the 9th to 15th centuries. Today, explore Angkor’s iconic sites by cycling along paths that wind through the temples and ruins. At Ta Prohm, famous from the film “Tomb Raider,” discover the stunning façade of laterite and sandstone entwined with massive fig tree roots. The Bayon temple, designed as a microcosm of the heavens, showcases rows of carved faces gazing in all directions. At Angkor Wat, Cambodia's national symbol and the largest religious structure in the world, stroll through courtyards adorned with beautifully preserved carvings depicting Hindu myths and daily life. In the afternoon, return to Siem Reap and enjoy dinner at SPOONS, a social enterprise restaurant serving authentic Khmer cuisine while supporting the training of marginalized youth. (B,L,D)Accommodation: Steung Siem Reap Hotel
Elevation gain/loss: +334 m /-334 mDay 9: Siem Reap Countryside, 34 mi. (54 km)
Today's adventure shifts focus from Angkor's main sites to the surrounding countryside, allowing for a more peaceful experience. Departing Siem Reap by bike, the route begins on paved roads before transitioning to quiet dirt paths through rice fields and small villages. Along the way, visit local homes to see cottage industries like basket weaving and sugar palm production. The ride concludes at the 10th-century Banteay Srey temple, celebrated for its exquisite bas-reliefs carved into delicate pink sandstone. Enjoy lunch at a nearby local restaurant before transferring back to Siem Reap, leaving the afternoon free to relax by the pool, enjoy a massage, or explore the town. For those with extra energy, cycling back to Siem Reap is an option (about 40 km along the main road). Dinner is at your leisure tonight. (B,L)Accommodation: Steung Siem Reap Hotel
Elevation gain/loss: +171 /-139 mDay 10: Siem Reap - Battambang
Today is a break from cycling, but it's packed with activities! The goal is to reach Battambang, situated across Tonle Sap, Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake. If water levels are high (typically October to January), enjoy a 6 to 8-hour boat cruise across the lake. If the levels are lower, take a morning cruise to a nearby floating village and then transfer to Battambang by vehicle, which takes about 3 hours.Upon arrival, unwind before hopping into tuk-tuks to visit Phnom Sampov, where you'll witness millions of bats swirling into the twilight sky from a cave. Enjoy drinks at the base of the hill as you take in the spectacle. After dusk, return to Battambang for dinner in the historic core, known for its relaxed atmosphere and well-preserved French colonial architecture. (B,L,D)
Accommodation: Classy Hotel & Spa
Day 11: Battambang - Pailin, 34 mi. (54 km)
The countryside around Battambang is alive with vibrant rural scenes and rich history. Begin with a 25 km ride along the banks of the Sangker River, passing traditional cottage industries where local favorites like banana chips, rice wine, and prahok (fermented fish paste) are made. Visit Wat Phnom Eak, an 11th-century Angkorian ruin, and pay respects at the Samrong Knong Killing Field, a genocide memorial within a Buddhist temple. The ride continues through lush rice paddies and roadside markets, leading to a unique Battambang experience: a bamboo train ride on bamboo platforms powered by a small motor. Before returning to the city, cross a hanging bridge reminiscent of an Indiana Jones movie and visit the Cambodian Peace Gallery, an exhibition on war and reconciliation. After some afternoon free time, enjoy dinner at Jaan Bai, a social enterprise restaurant serving fresh local cuisine while supporting Cambodian youth. (B,L,D)Accommodation: Memoria Palace
Elevation gain/loss: +268 m /-268 mDay 12: Battambang - Thai Border - Chanthaburi 13 mi. (22 km)
It’s time to move on to Thailand! After a 2-hour transfer from Battambang to the Ban Pakkad border crossing and completing immigration, the SpiceRoads Thailand team will welcome us to the “Land of Smiles.” Next, enjoy a 1.5-hour transfer to Chanthaburi Province's coast. Satisfy your cravings with a delicious, world-famous Thai lunch before a short afternoon ride. Starting from Laem Sing, cycle just over 20 km along a well-paved road by the Gulf of Thailand. Spend the evening relaxing near Chao Lao Beach, a serene stretch of palm-fringed sand popular with locals. If border procedures go smoothly, there’s an option to extend the ride by about 10 km. (B,L,D)Accommodation: Chanchalao Beach Resort
Elevation gain/loss: +169/-148 mDay 13: Chantaburi - Laem Mae Phim, 36 mi. (58 km)
Starting from your resort in Laem Sing, the final ride heads west along the Gulf of Thailand's coast. Cycling on well-paved secondary roads, pass shrimp farms, rubber plantations, and vibrant fishing communities with colorful boats. Enjoy scenic bridge crossings over river mouths leading to the sea.The ride concludes along Laem Mae Phim Beach, perfect for high fives and perhaps a cold drink. The afternoon is free for a swim, a relaxing massage, or poolside lounging. In the evening, gather for a farewell Thai feast to celebrate the end of our adventure. (B,L,D)
Accommodation: Grande Blue Resort
Elevation gain/loss: +247 m/- 250 mDay 14: Laem Mae Phim - Bangkok
The morning is free to enjoy the beach before heading back to Bangkok. Arrival back in Bangkok at approximately 3 pm. Ask about an extension to the beach or Koh Samet. (B)If you’re looking for a different flavor, check out our full list of bike tours in Europe or view all our featured tours, specials, and news.
Map
Hotels & Bikes
Accommodations in 3-star hotels. On each day’s itinerary, you will find the preferred accommodation listed. If for any reason, a change is necessary due to availability or other circumstance, the alternative will always be of the same standard or better.
Bicycles
Front Suspension Mountain Bike
The bikes are well-known makes of mountain bikes with lightweight alloy frames, 24- to 27-speed gearing, v-brakes, Shimano components, and front suspension.
Electric Bike
Bike details will be sent upon request.
Inclusions
What’s Included
- Accommodation for 13 nights
- Meals as per the itinerary (B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dinner)
- Snacks, local fruits, & water provided throughout the day when cycling
- 24 to 27-speed mountain bike rental
- English-speaking guide (two guides if the group is larger than 9)
- Air-conditioned vehicle for transfer & support
- Entrance fees of sights mentioned in the itinerary
- Boat fees
- Complimentary water bottle & bike jersey
What’s Not Included
- Transport to/from the start/finish
- Meals not mentioned as included
- Alcoholic drinks
- Visa fees
- Gratuities
- Bicycle protection
- Travel Insurance
Dates & Pricing
Dates
2024
November 10*, November 24, December 8*, & December 26*, 2024
2025
January 5*, January 12, January 19, February 9, March 2, May 4, June 1, June 29, August 17, October 19, November 9, November 23, December 7 & December 21, 2025
*Indicates guaranteed departures.
Group size: 2-16 cyclists
Please Note
- Rates are per person, based on double occupancy
- Tour prices are based on the fuel costs at time prices are set, often months or years in advance. In rare cases, additional fees may apply for fuel cost increases.
- Information to read before you book
- We recommend purchasing trip insurance
- Please see our FAQ
Pricing
2024/2025
Twin/double $ 5842 £ 2973 $ 5,360 € 3541 Ft 1444896 kr 528298 ₪ 14433 ¥ 586385 Mex$ 77345 NZ$ 6432 kr 42430 zł 15428 S$ 5090 kr 41169 CHF 3341 $ 3,775 Single supplement $ 921 £ 469 $ 845 € 558 Ft 227739 kr 83268 ₪ 2275 ¥ 92424 Mex$ 12191 NZ$ 1014 kr 6688 zł 2432 S$ 802 kr 6489 CHF 527 $ 595 You can avoid the single surcharge if you are willing to share accommodation with another traveler of the same gender. If a roommate is not found, you will enjoy a single room at no extra charge. A single supplement will be incurred if you prefer not to share a room.
Extra Options
Electric bike rental $ 503 £ 256 $ 461 € 305 Ft 124395 kr 45483 ₪ 1243 ¥ 50483 Mex$ 6659 NZ$ 554 kr 3653 zł 1328 S$ 438 kr 3544 CHF 288 $ 325 Extra nights before or after tour on request Extra Info
Skill Level — Moderate–Difficult
This is a moderate to difficult guided bike tour. The route requires a good level of fitness. Electric bikes are available! You will ride a total distance of 607 km with an average daily distance of 61 km. The average climbing per day is 292 m. You will ride a variety of road surfaces consisting of good quality tarmac, wide dirt tracks, and broken roads that are sometimes badly potholed but easily navigable by bike. The terrain is predominantly flat, and only on a few days do you cover longer distances (90-95 km). A support vehicle is almost always available except on some parts of the very narrow paths of the Vietnam Delta. Your guides will be with you the entire time.
Airport Info
Your tour begins in Hoh Chi Minh City (Saigon) in Vietnam and ends in Bangkok (Thailand).
Fly into Saigon Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) and fly out of Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK).Local Travel
On arrival taxi from the airport to Hoh Chi Minh City ($10 to $15) each way. On departure, taxi from your hotel to the airport for your departure flight.
A private transfer can be arranged. Prices depend on the number of passengers. Please ask!Climate
Cambodia: Has two distinct seasons - wet and dry. The dry season usually lasts from October to April. The wet season starts in May until September. Within each season there are variations in temperature. The coolest being 24° C around November/December and the hottest hitting 35°C around April/May.
Thailand: Generally has a tropical climate with fairly high humidity. The North and Central region have a tropical climate with fairly high humidity. Northeast Thailand has a humid, hot, and dry weather alternating with medium rain while the coastal areas of the east are humid and hot with intermittent rain. The South of Thailand has a tropical climate with fairly high humidity.
Vietnam: Weather in Vietnam is divided into 4 main regions - the far north, north, central, and south. In Hanoi and the north, it is hot, wet, and humid from May to October while November to April is cooler and dry.Recommended
Please visit your health care provider and ask about typhoid, polio, tetanus, and hepatitis A vaccines. A certificate for Yellow Fever is required when arriving from an infected area within six days. Vietnam is a malarial area and you are advised to take anti-malarial tablets. Please speak to your doctor for the most up to date information. It is compulsory that you take out travel insurance.
Remarks
Wearing a helmet is required and is non-negotiable. If you do not wear a helmet you will not be allowed to cycle. Your tour leader is trained in first aid and emergency rescue, but to a large degree, you must be responsible for your own safety while riding.
Important to know
Travel documents
PASSPORTS AND VISAS:
All nationalities require a valid passport for entry into all three countries. Please ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond the duration of your stay in the country
Vietnam: Most nationalities require a visa in advance, (please ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from date of entry) and check if your nationality is exempt from visa requirement. For 46 nationalities, including Australians, Canadians, and Americans, an e-visa can be obtained. This must be applied for and received before departure to Vietnam. To check for the E-visa and tourist fee for single entry and multiple entries please check the Visa fee. You must scan a copy of your photo and passport when applying and get your approval letter for your visa on arrival at the international airport of Vietnam. The processing time is 1-3 working days (not including Saturday, Sunday, and Vietnamese holiday).Cambodia: Visas can be obtained easily at any Cambodian Embassy around the world in advance and may avoid potential overcharging at some land crossings. If you do not have time or for some reason, it is difficult to get a visa in advance, it is possible to get a visa on arrival at the Vietnam/Cambodian border at a cost of $30 (please also bring two extra passport photos). There may be a small service charge of a few dollars. An e-visa is not valid for overland crossings. We can provide more information upon request.
Thailand: If staying less than 30 days, then a visa in advance is not required of European, North American, Australian and many other nationalities. You will need to show proof of an onward flight out of Thailand to be eligible for the visa on arrival. This is strictly enforced. Please check this page to see if you qualify. You will need to show proof of an onward flight out of Thailand to be eligible for the visa on arrival. This is strictly enforced.
Please note: A tourist visa is valid for a single 30 day stay. You must specify your arrival date when applying for a visa and it is from this date that the 30 days will be calculated. Read the visa carefully to make sure that you do not arrive before it begins or stay after it expires.
If you have any queries or concerns regarding visa issues please do not hesitate to contact us.Tour Operator
This tour is run by Spice Roads.
We value the strong relationship we have with our local partners and the services we provide.
We are not a broker.
We do not inflate tour prices.
We are simply travelers helping travelers.Would you like to learn more About Us? How about What Makes Us Different than other companies?
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