Ride Description:

This write-up updates one recently advertised by CCCTS. Due to a below minimum initial registration, the tour organization was changed to appeal more to intermediate-level cyclists. Significantly, on longer cycling days, pickup spots can be arranged for intermediate level cyclists. Also, the tour company has given us more detailed daily itineraries, including activities (see below), to get our excitement revved up.

The Ultimate Vietnam Tour is organized through Pedaltours, a cycle tour company based in Auckland, NZ. We have used this company in the past (Vietnam and India) and have been very satisfied with their leadership, attention to detail and value for money. The tour will be a smorgasbord of cultural and historical delights, and at the end you’ll feel perhaps you might better understand this sliver of a country just south of mighty China.

Our tour takes in Hanoi and Saigon (a name still cherished by locals, even though the city is officially known as Ho Chi Minh City), Dalat (once a French spa resort), the beach resort of Nha Trang, historic Hoi An, the imperial city of Hue, the far north, the roof of Vietnam where the Hoang Lien Mountains, some of Vietnam’s most spectacular scenery, Dien Bien Phu, Sapa and Bac Ha.

We explore Vietnam’s many ethnic minorities and 2,200 years of history, culture and heritage. We stay at very comfortable lodges and resorts and cycle mostly on quiet roads. Most days the distance is too great to cycle the entire way, so we will drive part way. This tour is a combination of cycling, sightseeing and exploring.

The cycling tour is 22 days in length and includes two domestic flights and an overnight train trip from the Chinese border back to Hanoi. We will have 4 non-cycle days during the tour: in Quy Nhon, Hoi An, Dien Bien Phu and Sapa. In addition, an optional two-day (non-cycling) trip is offered to Halong Bay, with its unusual limestone islands and huge caves, where we overnight in a junk.

It is recommended that you arrive a day early to get over jet lag and explore HCM City.

Tour Fee and Bike Rental Costs:

• • US $4,310/pp for a group of 12, US $3,890/pp for a group of 16;
  • Single Supplement: US$840.
  • Bike Rentals:    Trek hard tail with hybrid tyres = US$350; E-bike = US$600. Helmet not included.
  • Halong Bay (a 2-day optional (non-cycling) extension): US$245 pp twin share on a junk with full board.

An extra night in Hanoi, which includes dinner and a hotel room after the Halong Bay trip, will cost an additional US$140.

Accommodation Reservations:

All accommodations are provided during the tour period. They are at a very high standard (4-star hotels or best available).

Costs are based on two people sharing a room. If you’re traveling solo and would like a room-mate, the leaders will attempt to find one for you after closing of lottery. Please note at the time of registration if you want a single room or are looking for a room-mate.

All meals are provided apart from L & D on rest days.

Riding Conditions:

We will have 15 cycling days for a total cycling distance of 1,250 kms.  Estimated 85% of the roads are paved, 15% gravel. Average elevation gain is about 1,200 m per day, with the highest gain of 2,250m. On longer ride days, riders may reduce their ride distance using intermediate pickup spots. The tour leaders are quite focused on this.

We will be riding quiet country roads for the most part, where traffic will be modest and mainly motorbikes. We don’t plan to cycle in major cities (eg., HCM City, Hanoi) where traffic is hectic.

The tour has flexibility in both pace and the number of stops along the way. In order to enjoy this flexibility, each rider should be able to navigate the route using RidewithGPS.

Weather in November in the South is warm and sunny with temperatures between 240C and 320C. In the Central Region (Hue, Hoi An), one can expect occasional showers as it’s the rainy season. In Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Sapa, Halong Bay), the weather is cool, dry and perhaps foggy, ranging from 150C to 250C.

Fee Includes:

• All accommodations during the tour period.
• All meals apart from L & D on rest days.
• English-speaking cycling guides and bike mechanics – number depends on group size.
• RideWithGPS maps.
• 2 domestic flights, economy class: Saigon to Da Lat and Hue to Hanoi.
• Night train Lao Cai to Hanoi.
• Air-conditioned vehicles for transfers and support.
• Support vehicle to carry gear, luggage, first aid and as needed for biker transport.
• Entrance fees, visits.
• Water, snacks, soft drinks, fresh fruit on biking days.
• Pedaltours jersey or arm warmers.
• Basic third party accident insurance through CCCTS.
• One tour leader’s fee at 50% of tour fee.

Stripe fees of 3% for refund of any fees paid through the CCCTS website.

Fee Does Not Include:

• Vietnam visa, excessive weight luggage, personal expenses, tipping, laundry, alcoholic drinks, international air fares
• Travel insurance for cyclist’s medical and trip cancellation.
• Tipping at your own discretion.
• Note that the trip to Halong Bay, an optional cost, is not included in the Pedal Tours trip fee quotes.
• Airport transfer at tour start and end.
• Any services not mentioned in the itinerary.

Itinerary:

MEETING DAY / Day One: SAIGON – Nov 03, Monday

No cycling.

Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam’s largest (pop. 8 million) and the most cosmopolitan city. It was renamed after the founder of the Vietnamese Communist Party and president of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam.

On your first day in Ho Chi Minh City, you will meet the team of guides, mechanics, and drivers who will support you throughout your exciting adventure from Saigon to Hanoi.

A bike fitting is scheduled at 5pm followed by a welcome dinner and tour briefing

Lodging: Sanouva Hotel

https://www.sanouvahotel.com/en

Meals: D – Welcome dinner

 

Day Two: SAIGON to DA LAT  – November 4, Tuesday

Cycling: 40km, +458m

Rise early for a short flight to Da Lat lasting 1 hour.

Upon arrival and check-in at your hotel, you will take a relaxing ride along the lakeshore roads in the shadow of Mount Langbian discovering the region’s distinctive European influences, mountain scenery, and temperate climate. In the evening, you will have the chance to explore Da Lat to try its local cuisine at the night market.

Lodging: Sammy Hotel

http://www.sammyhotel.vn/

Meals: B, L, D

 

Day Three: DA LAT to NHA TRANG, November 5, Wednesday

Cycling distance: 80km, +1436m.

Today we cycle through the mountainous Central Highlands and meet the Edeh and M’Nong people (the two main ethnic groups in the Central Highlands). We drive from the city to begin cycling on quiet roads, past sugar cane farms, towards Dat Set village.

Climbing the hilly terrain presents a challenge, but   the reward is a stunning 30 km descent with breathtaking views of the mountains, forests, waterfalls, and nearby ethnic villages.

After enjoying a well-deserved lunch, we will continue along flat roads towards the coast sharing the road with many local cyclists. We will conclude the day with a transfer to Nha Trang, which will take about an hour.

Accommodation: TTC Michelia Hotel

Meals provided: B, L, D

 

Day Four: NHA TRANG to PHU YEN – November 6, Thursday

Cycling 70km, +668m.

On this day, we’ll drive north for about 50 km in the morning before hopping onto our bikes to cycle along the well-paved road that follows the Reunification Express Railroad, also known as the North-South Railroad—famously one of the world’s slowest railways! For the second part of the day, you will cycle up the coast toward Tuy Hoa, the capital of Phu Yen Province. Known for its beautiful white sand beaches.

Meals provided: B, L, D

Accommodation: Sala Hotel  https://salahotelgroup.com/en/saladanangbeachhot

 

 Day Five: PHU YEN to QUY NHON November 7, Friday

Cycling 70km, +883m.

Today, a 1-hour transfer takes us off the main highway and into a remote area, where we begin our ride surrounded by stunning forests and rolling hills. We will cycle along the coast to Quy Nhon, the capital city of the province. Fishing and agriculture are the province’s primary economic activity, and as you enter Quy Nhon, you will have the opportunity to see the region’s iconic basket-shaped fishing boats. You will spend the night in Quy Nhon.

Lodging: Lamor Boutique Hotel

https://lamorboutiquehotel.com/room/phong-deluxe/

Facilities: 4* star, in-house restaurant, bar, swimming pool, internet, hairdryers.

Meals: B, L, D

 

Day Six: QUY NHON , November 8, Saturday

Cycling: Rest day                                

A rest day allowing you to kick back and relax on the beach or explore Quy Nhon.

Lodging: Lamor Boutique Hotel

https://lamorboutiquehotel.com/room/phong-deluxe/

Facilities: 4* star, in-house restaurant, bar, swimming pool, internet, hairdryers.

Meals: B

 

Day Seven: QUY NHON to QUANG NGAI, November 9, Sunday

Cycling – 97km, +926m.

After breakfast, you will be transferred outside the city to avoid the busy rush hour traffic. The rest of the morning will be spent enjoying views of the coastlines and the local countryside. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to observe local shrimp and salt farms and meet friendly farmers.

 

Lodging: Cocoland River Beach Resort

https://cocolandriverbeach.vn/

Meals: B, L, D

 

 

 Day Eight: QUANG NGAI to HOI AN – Nov 10, Mon

Cycling – 101km, +460m.

Your journey will begin with a guided tour of the My Lai Sanctuary, a significant site from the Vietnam War. After visiting My Lai, you will cycle along peaceful village roads, passing rice paddies and small fishing villages adorned with colorful boats.

Hoi An, a charming village and UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its well-preserved architecture, unique atmosphere, and distinctive buildings. At night, the colorful lanterns illuminate Hoi An Old Town, creating a magical ambiance.

Lodging: O’Gallery Premier Hotel

https://ogallerypremierhotel.com/

Meals: B, L, D

  

Day Nine :  HOI An – Nov 11, Tues

Cycling: Rest Day

Enjoy a day at leisure to explore this town. Explore the historic architecture of Japanese and French origin and perhaps take in the morning concert of traditional music. There is much to see and do, including wonderful pastry shops in the old town and excellent tailors who will make any garment to measure, including cycle tops, in a few hours. You may like to take a gentle ride (c.10km return) to fabulous Hoi An beach in the afternoon.

There is a beautiful cooking school in Hoi An, let your guide know if you wish to book a cooking class.

Lodging: O’Gallery Premier Hotel

https://ogallerypremierhotel.com/

Meals: B

 

Day Ten: HOI AN to HUE, November 12, Wednesday

Cycling – 100km, +900m.

We cycle from town along a flat coastal road, through various fishing and agricultural villages. We will start with a brief transfer out of town, followed by a ride along the coast to Da Nang. From there, we will begin the climb up the world-famous Hai Van Pass.

The road gradually ascends to 480 meters, featuring numerous switchbacks that provide stunning views of the countryside and the East Sea. This tough climb will be followed by a long, smooth descent, leading us to our reward: lunch.

In the afternoon, we will continue riding along the coastline for another 44 kilometers before arriving in Hue, the former capital of the Nguyen Dynasty.

Lodging: EMM Hotel

https://www.emmhotels.com/en/hotels/emm-hotel-hue/

Meals: B, L, D

 

Day Eleven: HUE to HANOI – November 13, Thursday

Cycling – No cycling

After breakfast, we’ll spend the day exploring the historic Imperial City of Hue, visiting key sites such as the Citadel, Dong Ba Market, Thien Mu. In the afternoon, you’ll take a short flight to Hanoi.

Lodging: O’Gallery Premier Hotel

https://ogallerypremierhotel.com/

Meals: B, L, D

 

 Day Twelve: HANOI to MAI CHAU, November 14, Friday

Cycling – 59km, +820m.

This morning we’ll van transfer 2.5 hours out of Hanoi before cycling a 30km uphill ride to Hoa Binh Lake, where we’ll stop for a picnic lunch.

After lunch, you will be treated to stunning views as we pass through villages of the Thai, an ethnic minority in Vietnam. We’ll cycle across rice paddies along single-track paths and rugged trails before returning to the Mai Chau Hotel for our overnight stay.

Lodging: Mai Chau Lodge

https://www.maichaulodge.com/en/village-tours/

Meals: B, L, D

 

 

Day Thirteen: MAI CHAU to SON LA – November 15, Saturday

Cycling – 46km, +1092m.

This morning, you will begin with a short drive to the starting point of your cycling journey towards Son La. This scenic route will lead you through picturesque villages, lush green rice paddies, and rolling hills. Along the way, enjoy the beautiful landscapes ride through remote ethnic minority region.

The last 20km will be a flat ride among the most beautiful rice fields in South Asia.

Upon arriving in Son La, you can explore the local market and savor some delicious regional cuisine.

 

Lodging: Galaxy Grand Hotel

Meals: B, L, D

 

Day Fourteen: SON LA to DIEN BIEN PHU – November 16, Sunday

Cycling – 62km, +1244m.

From Son La you’ll be taken to the summit of Pha Din about 14km to start your cycling adventure. Enjoy the breathtaking views as you pedal through mountainous terrain and pass by ethnic minority villages. Arrive in Dien Bien Phu, a historically significant place where the decisive battle of the First Indochina War took place.

Lodging: Muong Thanh Grand Hotel

https://booking.muongthanh.com/hotel-muong-thanh-grand-dien-bien-phu

Meals: B, L, D

 

 Day Fifteen: DIEN BIEN PHU – November 17, Monday

Cycling – Rest Day

Spend the day exploring Dien Bien Phu at your leisure. Take the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture, visit the local markets, or relax and rejuvenate before continuing your cycling adventure.

 

Lodging: Muong Thanh Grand Hotel

https://booking.muongthanh.com/hotel-muong-thanh-grand-dien-bien-phu

Meals: B

 

Day Sixteen: DIEN BIEN PHU to SIN HO – November 18, Tuesday

Cycling – 54km, +838m.

Embark on a scenic ride from Dien Bien Phu to Murong Cha. You’ll climb one hill and then mostly cycle through an undulating landscape of mountainous terraced rice fields and ethnic minority villages along the way.

If you’re up for a longer ride, you can continue cycling for an additional 44 km after lunch. After your ride, you’ll transfer to Sin Ho for an overnight stay. Lodging: Thanh Binh

Meals: B, L, D

 

 

Day Seventeen: SIN HO to LAI CHAU – November 19, Wed

Cycling – 57km, +1370m.

After breakfast, we will transfer the first 50km. The route includes some long descents followed by a fairly strenuous ascent. Cycling along a scenic road that winds through majestic mountains and dense forests. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region and visit small villages along the way.

Lai Chau region boarder with China and is the least populous province in the Northwest.

Lodging: Mường Thanh Hotel

https://laichau.muongthanh.com/

Meals: B, L, D

 

Day Eighteen: LAI CHAU to SAPA – November 20, Thurs

Cycling – 41m, +850m.

Embark on a beautiful ride from Lai Chau to Sapa. Admire the stunning scenery as you cycle through

valleys, terraced rice fields, and the ethnic minority villages. Sapa is a charming town nestled in the Hoang Lien Son Mountain range. Take time to relax and explore the local markets.

 

Lodging: Hotel De Sapa

https://hoteldesapa.com/

Meals: B, L, D

 

Day Nineteen: SAPA – November 21, Friday

Cycling – Rest Day

Take a well-deserved rest day in Sapa. Discover the unique culture and traditions of the local ethnic

minority groups, such as the Hmong and Dao people. Enjoy the cool mountain climate, visit scenic viewpoints, or take a short trek to explore the surrounding countryside.

Lodging: Hotel De Sapa

https://hoteldesapa.com/

Meals: B

 

Day Twenty: SAPA to BAC CHA – November 22, Saturday

Cycling – 70km, +950m.

In the morning, we’ll cycle downhill to Lao Cai, where our cycling journey begins on a smooth, flat road heading toward Bac Ngam. Experience the thrilling downhill sections and take in the beautiful mountainous landscapes along the route.

Upon arriving in Bac Ha, famous for its lively Sunday market and rich traditional ethnic minority cultures, take some time to explore the town and immerse yourself in

the local atmosphere

Lodging: Samu Hotel

https://en.planetofhotels.com/vietnam/lao-cai/samu-bac-ha-hotel

Meals: B, L, D

 

Day Twenty-One: BAC HA to HANOI – November 23, Sunday

Cycling – 50km, +990m.

On the final day of cycling, ride from Bac Ha to Lao Cai. Enjoy the last stretch of your journey through

picturesque countryside and small villages.

Arrive in Lao Cai and catch an overnight train back to Hanoi, where you can conclude your cycling adventure.

Lodging: On the train soft berth cabin bac-ha-hotel

Meals: B, L, D

 

Day Twenty-Two: HANOI / HALONG BAY – November 24, Monday

Arrive in Hanoi and depart for your onward journey home. End of tour.

or

Start the HALONG BAY TOUR.

After breakfast, we leave the capital city for Halong Bay. The driving takes about 2.5-3 hours. Arrive in Ha Long city before noon and board a traditional wooden junk boat for an overnight journey.

Lodging: Bhaya Cruise

Meals: B, L, D

 

Day Twenty-Three: HALONG BAY to HANOI – November 25, Tuesday

Breakfast is served at 7 am, followed by a morning cruise around the bay. During this morning’s cruise, we’ll visit Titov Island, where you can relax on the pristine beach, swim, or sunbathe. After bidding farewell to this natural wonder of the world, we’ll board a shuttle bus for the journey back to Hanoi followed by a farewell dinner.

 

Lodging: Le Jardin Hotel

 

Day Twenty-Four: HANOI – November 26, Weds

After breakfast the tour end. We will pick up and transfer to the airport for your departure flight.

 

https://lejardinhotels.com/

Meals: B, L, D

 

Safe travels!

 

 

Registration and Participant Selection:

Registration will be available on the CCCTS website as of the dates shown above. Participant selection is done primarily by lottery results, though the leader will make the final decision on who is accepted for the tour and has the option to prioritize up to 30% of the participants (or 4 participants for a 16-person tour). The computerized lottery system will be used if the event is over-subscribed.  A $100 payment is required at the time of registration. The lottery signup will run for 8 days, at which time the leaders will evaluate registrants based on the following criteria:

• fitness and riding ability and experience required for the tour.
• a history of riding with CCCTS and demonstrating safe riding practices.
• acceptable social behaviour.

The leaders may interview riders or others who know them so as to verify their suitability for the tour.  The leaders will have the discretion to make the final decision on whether someone is accepted for the event and may reject applicants after discussion with the Tour Director. Registration fee payments are considered non-refundable in the event of registrant’s cancellation.

The leaders will notify registrants of their selection status. If the ride is not filled to capacity, registration will continue until Sept 17.

Wait-listed cyclists who don't make it to the Ride's "Go List" are encouraged to remain on the wait list; alternatively, they may request a refund of their registration fee (minus the 3% Stripe fee).

After notification that you have been selected for the tour, you will be given instructions on how to make the following payments to Pedaltours:

Payment Terms:      

• US $1,000 within two weeks of acceptance as participant
• US $1,000 by July 1, 2025
• Balance by Sept. 1, 2025

 

Pedaltours Cancellation Policy:

Cancellations must be made by e-mail to the tour leader and Pedaltours:  (uzi@pedaltours.co.nz).

The amount of payment that will be forfeited if you cancel and if no replacement can be found are:

1. Cancellation more than 60 days of departure – No cancellation charges. Admin fee of NZ$100pp.
2. Cancellation from 59 to 45 days before departure – Cancellation charges of 50% of deposit.
3. Cancellation from 44 to 30 days before departure – Cancellation charges of 100% deposit.
4. Cancellation after 29 to 16 days before departure – Cancellation charges of 50% of the tour package.
5. Cancellation 15 days before departure – Cancellation charges of 100% of the tour package.

Pedaltours strongly recommends you take out travel, accident, medical, baggage and cancellation insurance.

 

Communicable Illnesses: CCCTS Communicable Illness Policy takes into consideration regulations and recommendations from Public Health Authority of Canada, and BC Centre of Disease Control. In the case of illness while on tour, it is expected that all participants will follow the procedures outlined in this policy. Please refer to https://cccts.org/club-document/communicable-illness/ for details on the club’s Communicable Illness Policy. CCCTS strongly encourages all participants to be up to date on their vaccinations for COVID and all other communicable diseases.  Everyone should bring three COVID test kits with them on the tour and take responsibility for self-testing if they feel ill.  All participants must have medical insurance for this trip, including coverage for COVID-related illness.

Aviation Emissions: It is estimated that the flight from Vancouver to Ho Chi Minh City and return from Hanoi to Vancouver will produce 4.7 tonnes of aviation emissions per person.  This compares to an average of 2.1 tonnes / pp per year for use of a gasoline-driven car.