Vietnam bike tour to Cambodia 10 days
Day 1: Saigon Arrival
Your cycling adventure begins in Ho Chi Minh City, commonly known as Saigon, where you will arrive to a bustling atmosphere rich with history and energy. After checking into your accommodation, take some time to acclimatize to the vibrant environment. Saigon offers a compelling mix of old and new, with historic French-colonial architecture standing side by side with modern skyscrapers.
In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant, where you can sample Vietnamese delicacies such as pho, banh mi, and fresh spring rolls. This meal will give you a glimpse of the culinary joys that await you on this journey. Before you retire for the night, make sure to rest well; the next day, the cycling adventure will commence.
Day 2: Saigon to Vinh Long
After a hearty breakfast, it’s time to cycle from Saigon to Vinh Long, located in the heart of the Mekong Delta. This day’s ride covers approximately 70 kilometers, taking you through scenic countryside landscapes and charming rural villages.Along the way, you will encounter lush green fields, fruit orchards, and rice paddies. The rural ambiance is punctuated by the occasional water buffalo and friendly locals who often wave as you pass by.
Upon arrival in Vinh Long, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the vibrant floating markets, where vendors sell fresh fruits and vegetables right from their boats. It’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the local culture. Your overnight accommodation will be in a local guesthouse, allowing you to experience the hospitality of the region firsthand.
Day 3: Vinh Long to Can Tho
Cycling from Vinh Long to Can Tho, the largest city in the Mekong Delta, is a highlight for many. The distance to cover today is around 35 kilometers, an easy ride that allows you to take in the scenery at a leisurely pace.
As you pedal through the picturesque rural landscape, you’ll be struck by the serene beauty of mango and coconut plantations. This area is famously known for its delicious fruits, and you might want to stop and indulge in some fresh slices along the way.
Once you arrive in Can Tho, dedicate your afternoon to exploring the city. Visit the iconic Can Tho Market, an expansive area bustling with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handicrafts.
In the evening, a guided boat ride through the canals provides an unforgettable experience, as you shift from land to water, witnessing the beauty of the delta from a different perspective.
Day 4: Can Tho to Chau Doc
Today’s ride from Can Tho to Chau Doc covers approximately 120 kilometers, making it one of the longer cycling days of your trip. The route traverses rural landscapes dotted with traditional villages and rice fields, offering a view into the daily lives of the locals.
As you cycle, be sure to stop at various points of interest, such as local temples and pagodas. These cultural sites enrich your experience, providing insight into the spiritual life of the region.
Chau Doc, located close to the border with Cambodia, is a charming town known for its unique blend of cultures. Upon arrival, you can explore the local markets or take a trip to the top of Sam Mountain for stunning views of the surrounding rice paddies and the nearby Cambodian territory.
Day 5: Chau Doc to Phnom Penh
On this day, you will leave Vietnam and enter Cambodia. First, you’ll cycle to the boat pier, where you will board a ferry to cross the Mekong River and reach Phnom Penh, the bustling capital of Cambodia.
Once you arrive in Phnom Penh, the rest of the day is yours to explore. Visit the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda, where stunning architecture and intricate designs speak volumes of Cambodia’s rich history. You can also pay your respects at the Killing Fields and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, sites that recount the sobering chapters of Cambodia’s history.
In the evening, enjoy a meal along the riverside, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this energetic city.
Day 6: Phnom Penh to Kampong Thom
Today’s cycling route from Phnom Penh to Kampong Thom covers about 160 kilometers, a challenging yet rewarding day that allows you to witness the diverse landscapes of Cambodia.
Leaving the capital, the ride will take you through small villages and rice fields, where you can interact with friendly locals and observe traditional Cambodian life. Breaks along the way provide chances to taste local foods and perhaps even try your hand at traditional fishing techniques.
Kampong Thom is known for its ancient temples and archaeological sites, so upon arrival, you’ll want to take some time to explore. The town serves as a gateway to the historic Sambor Prei Kuk temples, which date back to the 7th century and provide a fascinating glimpse into Cambodia’s history.
Day 7: Kampong Thom to Siem Reap
Cycling from Kampong Thom to Siem Reap covers around 90 kilometers, offering a scenic ride that brings you closer to the iconic temples of Angkor.
As you pedal, the landscape begins to shift as you approach Siem Reap, the base for exploring the incredible Angkor Wat temple complex. Once you arrive in Siem Reap, take some time to relax and refresh after a long day of cycling.
In the evening, you may want to explore the night markets filled with handicrafts, souvenirs, and delicious street food. Siem Reap is well-known for its bustling atmosphere, lively bars, and restaurants, making it a fantastic place to spend the night.
Day 8: Siem Reap: Angkor Wat Cycling
Today is dedicated entirely to exploring the Angkor Wat temple complex by bicycle. Known as the largest religious monument in the world, Angkor Wat is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a must-see for anyone visiting Cambodia.
The vast complex allows for an immersive experience, filled with intricately carved temples and well-preserved structures. Spend the day cycling from one temple to another, with highlights including Angkor Thom, Bayon Temple with its stunning stone faces, and Ta Prohm, where nature intertwines with ancient architecture.
Pause during the day to capture photographs and enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the temples. The beauty of Angkor Wat during sunrise or sunset is particularly magical, so if time allows, be sure to extend your temple exploration into the early morning or evening hours.
Day 9: Banteay Srei to Kampong Phluk
On the final full day of cycling, you will trek approximately 50 kilometers to Banteay Srei, known for its pink sandstone architecture that enhances the delicate carvings adorning the temple walls. This temple is often referred to as the “jewel of Khmer art” and is a highlight for any visitor to the region.
From Banteay Srei, you will continue on to Kampong Phluk, a village built on stilts above a flooded forest area. This unique village offers an into the life of communities that have adapted to their water-based environment.
Experience a boat ride through the mangroves of Kampong Phluk and witness the incredible biodiversity of this ecosystem. The peaceful scenery is a perfect way to wrap up your cycling adventure.
Day 10: Siem Reap Departure
On your final day, take some time to relax and enjoy the local atmosphere of Siem Reap. You might want to visit a local café, shop for last-minute souvenirs, or even indulge in a traditional Khmer massage to unwind after your cycling journey.
As your trip comes to an end, reflect on the incredible landscapes, diverse cultures, and unforgettable experiences of cycling through Vietnam and Cambodia. Whether it’s the warm smiles of locals, the breathtaking history of ancient temples, or the sheer joy of pedaling through lush countryside, this journey has offered a glimpse into the heart of Southeast Asia that will stay with you long after you’ve departed.
With a wonderful collection of memories, you will head to the airport for your departure, enriched by the sights, sounds, and experiences that only this remarkable region could provide. This itinerary not only offers physical challenges and adventure, but it also serves as an enlightening journey through two vibrant countries. The cycling tour of Vietnam and Cambodia fosters a deeper appreciation for the area’s rich cultural tapestry and its people, leaving lasting impressions that are sure to inspire future travels.