Vietnamese Voyage by Bike & Boat

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi

Welcome to Hanoi! After landing at the airport, a shuttle will transport you to your hotel in the heart of the bustling old quarter. Despite its size, Hanoi maintains a laid-back, traditional vibe. Soak up the colorful atmosphere of Hanoi's streets and perhaps even catch a mesmerizing water puppet show – a well-loved Vietnamese art form. Get to know your fellow travelers over a welcome dinner and settle in for the night. (D)

Day 2: Hanoi - Ninh Binh
Van Long - Hoa Lu - Tam Coc (14 mi. / 22km + 6mi. / 10km

Today kicks off with a scenic shuttle ride to the lush province of Ninh Binh. Pedal through vibrant rice fields toward Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s former capital, where relics tell stories of ancient dynasties. After exploring Hoa Lu, savor a local lunch in the village of Trang An Farm. Continue biking to Tam Coc, with its breathtaking limestone karsts rising above rice paddies. Swap your bike for a traditional rowboat and glide through a hidden valley. As the day winds down, enjoy a visit to a local bird sanctuary. Overnight in Tam Coc. (B, L, D)

Day 3: Tam Coc - Ha Long Bay

After breakfast, uncover the secrets of a secluded valley, home to a tranquil Buddhist temple. Then it’s time for a scenic drive to Ha Long Bay, where the traditional wooden junk boat awaits. Enjoy lunch on board as you set sail through the bay’s otherworldly limestone islands. In the afternoon, explore one of the fascinating caves formed over thousands of years. Adventurous guests can join a guided kayak tour around a lagoon with the possibility of spotting local monkeys! You’ll spend the night anchored in this natural paradise. (B, L, D)

Day 4: Ha Long Bay - Viet Hai Village
Cat Ba Island (12 mi. / 18 km

Board a smaller boat and head to Cat Ba Island’s national park, where you'll cycle through the jungle-clad landscape to Việt Hải, a village of the Việt Hải minority. After a guided nature walk through ancient forestland, you'll reach the island’s highest peak for jaw-dropping views. Later, return to the boat and set sail to the legendary ‘Virgin Cave’ (Trinh Nu Cave), a site steeped in local folklore. (B, L, D)

Day 5: Ha Long Bay & Lan Ha Bay
Kayak day

Disembark with your bags and transfer by boat to Lan Ha Bay. The day’s adventure includes a guided kayak tour through lagoons surrounded by steep cliffs and dense vegetation. Keep your eyes peeled for curious monkeys peeking through the foliage! After a refreshing swim at a pristine beach, paddle past fishing villages before arriving at Cat Ba. Relax at your beachside resort or lounge by the pool. (B, L, D)

Day 6: Cát Bà Island - Hai Phong - Hôi An

Start the day exploring the bustling Cat Ba market. Enjoy some downtime at the beach before a late checkout. Then, transfer to Hai Phong or Hanoi for your flight to Danang. Upon arrival, a short drive brings you to the charming town of Hoi An, where you’ll enjoy dinner and settle into your hotel. (B, L, D)

Day 7: Hôi An - Tra Que Vegetable Village
11 mi. / 17 km

Today’s ride takes you through Hoi An’s picturesque countryside to Tra Que Village. Meet local farmers, learn about their organic practices, and even try your hand at traditional Vietnamese cooking! After lunch, enjoy a leisurely afternoon, whether it’s exploring the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An or relaxing at the nearby beach. (B, L)

Day 8: Hôi An

Spend a full day discovering Hoi An’s captivating old town on foot. Stroll along its narrow lanes, visit the famous Japanese Bridge, or admire the historic Quan Cong Temple. The city’s many tailor shops and markets offer a treasure trove of souvenirs. Alternatively, take it easy today and unwind at the resort pool. (B, L)

Day 9: Hoi An - Hue 16 mi.
25 km

Begin the day with a transfer to Huế, traveling over the dramatic Cloud Pass. A break at Lăng Cô Beach with lunch is followed by the option to cycle along the coast to Thuan An Beach—or ride the bus if you prefer. If conditions are good, stop for a swim before arriving in Huế. After settling into the lodge, the evening is free for your own exploration. Overnight in Huế. (B, L)

Day 10: Hué countryside
10 mi. / 16 km

Today, you will explore Huế, the historic imperial city set along the Perfume River and surrounded by rice fields and gentle hills. After breakfast, take an easy bike ride to Thanh Thuy Village, where you visit its distinctive temples, bridges, and traditional homes. Return to Huế for lunch, followed by a guided visit to the Imperial Citadel and the “Forbidden Purple City.” Enjoy the evening at leisure to experience the lively heart of Huế. (B, L)

Day 11: Huế – Hồ Chí Minh City – My Tho - Cái Bè
16 - 19 mi. / 25 - 30 km

After breakfast, a morning flight heads to Hồ Chí Minh City, followed by a transfer to Mỹ Tho, the gateway to the Mekong Delta. After lunch, the cycling journey begins toward Vinh Long, the provincial capital set between two major branches of the Mekong River. The route to Cái Bè winds through the delta’s lush landscapes and sweeping rice fields. Upon reaching Cái Bè, a small boat carries you to a nearby island, where the overnight resort is located. Dinner is served at the resort. (B, L, D)

Day 12: Mekong Delta - Cái Bè – Islands of Vĩnh Long and Can Tho
11 - 12 mi. / 17 - 20 km

After breakfast, cycling continues around the island along palm-shaded paths. Lunch is served back at the lodge, followed by a boat journey to Vinh Long. Those who wish may take a short additional bike ride to further explore the surrounding landscape. A transfer then leads to Can Tho, where travelers check in to the hotel and have time to unwind before enjoying dinner at a riverside restaurant. (B, L, D)

Day 13: Cần Thơ - Hồ Chí Minh City

After breakfast, you will take a small private boat to the Cai Rang floating market for a glimpse of authentic Mekong Delta trade. After a relaxed lunch, return to Ho Chi Minh City by shuttle for an overnight stay in this vibrant Vietnamese hub. (B, L)

Day 14: Ho Chi Minh City

Discover the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City on a guided tour. Visit landmarks like the Notre Dame Cathedral and the historic post office. In the afternoon, explore Ben Thanh Market or relax before a farewell dinner with your fellow travelers. (B, L, D)

Day 15: Departure from Ho Chi Minh City

After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to Vietnam. Depart from Ho Chi Minh City or continue your adventure with an optional extension to Siem Reap and Angkor Wat. (B)

Note: Due to weather or unforeseen circumstances, the itinerary may change without prior notice.

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi

After landing in Hanoi, a transfer bus will bring you to your hotel in the Old Quarter. You can then head out to explore the lively streets and take in the city’s charm. Dinner is at your leisure, with everything from upscale Vietnamese and French cuisine to flavorful street food just steps from the hotel.

Accommodation: Boutique hotel in the historic center

Day 2
morning: Ho Chí Minh Mausoleum

After breakfast, you’ll meet your guide at 8 am for a tour focused on Ho Chi Minh’s legacy. You’ll explore the Ho Chi Minh Museum, see the humble home where he lived and worked, and visit the grand mausoleum built in his honor.

Day 2
midday: Temple of Literature

The city tour continues with stops at the iconic One Pillar Pagoda and the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university. After a tasty lunch, explore the Museum of Ethnology to discover the country’s diverse cultures and lifestyles.

Day 3
afternoon: Historic Center

Visit Ngoc Son and Ba Kieu Temples, then wander the bustling Old Quarter and Dong Xuan Market on a guided walk. Return to the hotel to meet your group at 5 pm for a short welcome talk and dinner.

Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City - Siem Reap & bike tour
12 mi. / 20 km

Welcome to Siem Reap! Your guide meets you and brings you to the Wat Thmey Memorial to reflect on Cambodia’s history. You then continue to the APOPO Visitor Center to observe the trained detection rats and, if you wish, hold one. Following lunch, you check into your hotel and head out for an easy bike ride through rural paths northwest of the city, catching scenes of local life and a scenic sunset. The day ends with a welcome dinner and an Apsara dance performance. Overnight in Siem Reap.

Sample accommodation: Lynnaya Urban River Resort & Spa

Day 2: Siem Reap - Angkor Wat Temple
22 mi. / 35 km

Get ready for a day of temple hopping! Start with a bike ride to Ta Prohm, the famous 'Jungle Temple', where tree roots intertwine with ancient ruins. Then, pedal to Bayon Temple, the twin temples of Thommanom and Chau Say Tevoda, the Victory Gate, and the grand Terrace of the Elephants. Enjoy a relaxing picnic near Angkor Wat before heading to Phnom Bakheng to catch a stunning sunset view.

Sample accommodation: Lynnaya Urban River Resort & Spa

Day 3: Siem Reap - Phnom Kulen - Siem Reap
31 mi. / 50 km

After breakfast, cycle along dirt roads, passing temples and monasteries on your way to Phnom Kulen. Once you reach Rattanak Tey Pagoda, stretch your legs with a hike along mountain trails. The views from the top are well worth the effort! Take a break with a picnic lunch and cool off with a swim at a nearby waterfall. After a fun-filled day, return to the hotel in Siem Reap for a relaxing evening.

Sample accommodation: Lynnaya Urban River Resort & Spa

Day 4: Departure from Siem Reap

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and some free time to explore, pick up souvenirs, or simply relax. When it’s time, your transfer will take you to the airport for your onward journey.