Overview
The 9-Day Siem Reap to Saigon Cycling Adventure is a masterfully curated journey that captures the essence of Indochina in just over a week. This expedition is designed for the intrepid traveler who wishes to witness the profound transition from the ancient, stone-carved legacy of the Khmer Empire to the vibrant, water-driven pulse of Southern Vietnam. By traveling on two wheels, you engage with the landscape and its people at an intimate level that traditional tours simply cannot match.
Your odyssey begins in Siem Reap, the gateway to the world-renowned Angkor Archaeological Park. Over the first three days, you will navigate hidden jungle trails to reach the iconic Angkor Wat, the enigmatic faces of Bayon, and the exquisite pink sandstone carvings of Banteay Srei. You will witness the architectural evolution of the Khmer people at the Roluos Group and experience the unique floating life on the vast Tonle Sap Lake. The journey continues with a multimodal transition to the capital, Phnom Penh, before a high-speed boat whisks you across the international border into the verdant "Water World" of the Mekong Delta.
The Vietnamese leg of the tour is a celebration of the senses. As you pedal through Chau Doc, Long Xuyen, and Can Tho, the scenery shifts to a labyrinth of narrow canal paths, lush fruit orchards, and vibrant floating markets. You will navigate the "Kingdom of Coconuts" in Ben Tre and experience the legendary hospitality of the local farmers in Tra Vinh. This 9-day marathon concludes with a triumphant arrival in the high-octane metropolis of Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City). With professional support, high-quality gear, and expert local guides, this is the definitive way to experience the highlights of Cambodia and Vietnam on two wheels.
Highlights
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The Wonders of Angkor: Spend dedicated days exploring the inner and outer circuits of the Angkor Complex, reaching hidden temple gates and jungle paths via bicycle.
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Banteay Srei & Kbal Spean: Discover the "Citadel of Women," famous for its intricate pink sandstone carvings, and the mystical River of a Thousand Lingas.
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Tonle Sap Lake Navigation: Experience the vastness of Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake with a scenic boat journey from Siem Reap toward Phnom Penh.
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Cross-Border Speedboat: Enjoy a thrilling high-speed boat transit from Phnom Penh directly into the heart of the Mekong Delta at Chau Doc.
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Mekong Delta Deep-Dive: Navigate the intricate network of canal-side paths, fruit orchards, and local ferries in Can Tho, Tra Vinh, and Ben Tre.
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Floating Market Culture: Witness the vibrant sunrise commerce of the Mekong’s floating markets, where local life happens entirely on the water.
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Authentic Local Interaction: Stay in a curated mix of boutique hotels and high-quality local settings, experiencing the genuine hospitality of Khmer and Vietnamese communities.
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Professional Support: Cycle with total peace of mind with a dedicated support van, expert mechanics, and English-speaking guides for every mile.
Brief Itinerary
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Day 1: Siem Reap Arrival – Welcome ride to the Angkor Complex.
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Day 2: Banteay Srei & River of Thousand Lingas – Exploring the "Citadel of Women" and jungle carvings.
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Day 3: Rolous Group & Tonle Sap Lake – Ancient architecture and the floating villages of the Great Lake.
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Day 4: Siem Reap to Phnom Penh – A multimodal journey by bike and boat toward the capital.
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Day 5: Phnom Penh to Chau Doc (Vietnam) – Scenic speedboat journey into the verdant Mekong Delta.
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Day 6: Chau Doc to Long Xuyen – Cycling along the Mekong canal paths and rural villages.
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Day 7: Long Xuyen to Can Tho – Into the heart of the Delta and its famous floating markets.
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Day 8: Can Tho to Tra Vinh – Pedaling through the "Kingdom of Coconuts" and ethnic Khmer-Vietnamese areas.
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Day 9: Tra Vinh – Ben Tre – Saigon – Final ride through tropical orchards and arrival in the southern hub.
What’s Included
What is Included:
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Professional Support: Fully air-conditioned support vehicle for luggage, mechanical assistance, and refreshments throughout.
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Expert Guides: English-speaking cycling guides specialized in the routes of Cambodia and Vietnam.
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Accommodation: 8 nights in a curated mix of boutique hotels and high-quality local guesthouses (Twin/Double share).
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Quality Gear: High-quality mountain or hybrid bike rental (Trek or Giant) with helmets.
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Meals: Most meals as specified in the itinerary (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch).
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Hydration & Snacks: Unlimited mineral water, electrolytes, and fresh local fruits during all cycling segments.
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Transfers: Boat from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh and speedboat from Phnom Penh to Chau Doc.
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Entrance Fees: All sightseeing fees, including the Angkor Pass and historical sites mentioned.
What is Excluded:
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Airfare: International flights to Siem Reap and from Saigon.
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Visas: Visa fees for Cambodia and Vietnam (E-visas are highly recommended).
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Insurance: Mandatory comprehensive travel and medical insurance (please provide proof).
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Personal Expenses: Laundry, phone calls, alcoholic beverages, and dinner (where not mentioned).
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Gratuities: Tips for the local guide and driver team (highly appreciated).
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Single Supplement: Available for travelers requesting a private room throughout the tour.
Itinerary
Cycle from the ancient temples of Angkor to vibrant Ho Chi Minh City in 9 days. Experience Cambodia's rural soul and Vietnam's lush Mekong Delta on two wheels with expert guides and full support. Book your cross-border bike odyssey today!
Tour Plan
Depart from your hotel and cycle to Angkor temple. Cycling on the shady bumpy road to see Kravan temple, Banteay Kdei, and stop at the famous Ta Phrom, embraced by the roots of enormous fig trees and gigantic creepers. Spend an hour visiting Ta Phrom. It was built in the 12th century by the famous King Jayavarvan VII indicated to his mother.
Continue your bike ride through a small circuit passing Ta Keo temple, Chao Say Tevoda, and Tommanon before reaching Angkor Thom city where you could admire the race of Leper King, Terrace of Elephant, Baphoun, Phimean Akas. Then explore the Bayon temple and start the visit to Angkor Thom which was built by Cambodia’s great king, Jayavarman VII. Welcome dinner at the restaurant.
Overnight in SiemReap.
Activities: • 25km biking.
• Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Cycling from Cambodia to Vietnam with Golden Cycling Tours was an unforgettable adventure. The journey was well-paced, and I loved the variety of landscapes – from rural villages to bustling cities. The team was professional, and the bikes were in excellent condition. I highly recommend this tour for anyone looking for a unique cycling experience.