MTB Vietnam provides both guided and independent Bike Tours
In Vietnam. Book your road cycling or mountain biking trip today!
Vietnam’s city roads are the epitome of organised chaos. Yet
there’s something intriguing and magical about the sea of motorbikes zipping
through the labyrinth of vibrant streets. On every corner local Pho restaurants
waft out irresistible smells, and colourful shops selling this and that squish
in between. You’ll notice that nothing is perfect, however nothing is dull
either. For more at bike tours vietnam
Although Vietnam has witnessed wars since 111BC when China
invaded, as well as French colonial rule, their culture is peaceful. The quiet
countryside retains tradition as the modernising cities race ahead to become
more technologically and commercially advanced. At the same time, Vietnam’s
calm, buddhist inspired lifestyle seeps from the luscious rice paddies and
mountains into the skyscrapers and tourist hotspots. Just as the cities, such
as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh, house unique architecture, the places in between
boast beautiful landscapes. For this reason we recommend travelling by bike, to
experience much more than what regular tourists see.
Central Coast
Over a period of 7 days, consider traversing 457km of Vietnam’s coast, from
Hue to Nha Trang. En route there are historic towns, secluded beaches and vast
highlands stretching out beyond your path. Begin your coastal journey in Hue,
the capital city of Vietnam between 1802-1945. Although many historic sites in
Hue were damaged in the Vietnam war, the walled Imperial City just about
survived. Make sure you visit here before cycling onward, along with the
ancient tombs if you have time.
Next up on your Central Coast cycling route is Hoi An, home to a network of
canals and an ancient city. Cycle here using the 10km climb up Hai Van Pass,
dubbed by Jeremy Clarkson, ‘a deserted ribbon of perfection’. Hoi An is
particularly special given it’s UNESCO heritage status, with colourful lanterns
lining the vibrant streets. Delve deeper into Vietnam’s peaceful countryside,
cycling parallel a railway line from Dieu Tri to Tuy Hoa. Admire the mountains
and valleys folding into the stunning landscape as you reach Whale Island, a
perfect finish. Relax on the irresistible sandy beaches, go for a swim in the
clear blue sea or explore the coconut groves before leaving. There’s a reason
why the Central Coast cycling holiday is one of the best cycling routes in
Vietnam!
Saigon to Hanoi
We recommend spending 15 days making your way from Saigon in the South, to
Hanoi in the North. In total the distance will be 787km, which is a challenge
to many cyclists, yet worth every pedal stroke. Because the route takes you
between two different areas, there are plenty of opportunities for discovering
new scenery, food and lifestyles. By starting in the capital, Saigon (aka Ho
Chi Minh city) you can unearth the lesser known details of the Vietnam War.
Wander around the War Remnants Museum, and crawl through the Cu Chi tunnels.
The tunnels were crucial to communication during the Vietnam War as well as to
store food and hide in.
In contrast to tackling mountain climbs throughout the route, there will be
much deserved down time. Where better than coastal Nha Trang to relax? Take a
boat trip to the pristine surrounding islands, where you can snorkel amidst
colourful fish and coral. After a couple nights in Nha Trang, Hanoi gradually
becomes closer, with stops in Hoi An and Hue en route. A true highlight of
Hanoi is the iconic Halong Bay. Picturesque limestone karsts jut out from the
crystal water, decorated with lush forests and hidden caves. We recommend
hopping on a boat cruise where you can weave in and out of the karsts, or even
kayak!
North Ho Chi Minh Highway
For the hardcore road cyclists, the Ho Chi Minh Highway will be your Asian
cycling haven. It’s definitely one of the best cycling routes in Vietnam.
Offbeat and much more rugged than your average Sa Calobra, the roads are not always
smooth tarmac. However, a road bike still does the job, and the whole route
feels like an epic adventure. The North section is especially thrilling, due to
the incredible mountainous landscape and challenging climbs peppered about. You
should expect to ride an average of 100km a day, in addition to 1025m of
climbing. The best section in terms of quality is the Northern section,
starting in Hanoi and ending in Hue.
As we mentioned previously, Vietnam’s city roads are full of
buzzing motorbikes. Hanoi is no stranger to the organised chaos, yet the
traffic is nothing to be hesitant about. It is often slow moving and drivers
are generally respectful of cyclists, as there are many bikes too! Make sure to
explore Hanoi’s museums, delicious street food stalls and various quarters,
including the architecturally unique French Quarter. From Hanoi head south
along the Song Ma river, coffee plantations and jungles. The time needed to
cycle this route is around 9 days without a rest day. There will be many towns
and villages where you can stop for the night, with locals happy to welcome
you. For more at bike tours north Vietnam
When to Go
Overall, the best time to visit any part of Vietnam is between September
until April. Although there will be slight variations in the South and North,
for the most part both areas are similar. Take note of the monsoon season
between April and August, as the weather is hot, humid and wet. Not ideal for
cycling! Whilst the North becomes cooler during winter months, it is still a
great time to be out on the bike. Any of our best cycling routes in Vietnam are
subject to a bad weather day here and there, however planning which season you
go makes all the difference.