Day 1: Arrival in Siem Reap
Your journey begins in Siem Reap, Cambodia, where you’ll arrive at the gateway to Angkor Wat. Spend your first day acclimatizing yourself to the local culture. Take a sunset temple tour, and enjoy the breathtaking views of Angkor Wat as the sun sets behind its majestic spires. Join a welcome dinner at a local restaurant and savor traditional Cambodian cuisine, including dishes like Amok (marinated fish) and Lok Lak (stir-fried beef). Afterward, make sure to recharge your e-bikes, as tomorrow marks the official start of your tour.
Day 2: Exploring Angkor Wat
Your second day will be a leisurely exploration of the ancient temples. With your e-bike, ride to Angkor Wat and the surrounding temples such as Bayon and Ta Prohm, which famously features trees growing through the temple stones. The electric bikes allow you to glide through the landscapes effortlessly, emphasizing the harmony between nature and architecture that defines this UNESCO World Heritage site. Spend the day marveling at the intricate carvings, and steep yourself in the history of the Khmer Empire. As the day concludes, return to Siem Reap, where you’ll prepare for an early start the next morning.
Day 3: Siem Reap to Kampong Cham
Setting out from Siem Reap, you’ll cycle east through rural Cambodia, traveling approximately 120 kilometers to Kampong Cham. This leg of the journey showcases the serene beauty of Cambodian countryside, with rice paddies and traditional stilted houses lining the route. Stop at local villages along the way, meeting artisans and maybe even participating in traditional handicraft making. Upon arrival in Kampong Cham, settle into your accommodation and take a stroll along the banks of the Mekong River at sunset, where colorful fishing boats create a beautiful scene.
Day 4: Kampong Cham to Kratie
On day four, it’s time to tackle another stretch of this unforgettable journey – from Kampong Cham to Kratie. Cover a distance of around 100 kilometers today. The e-bike allows you to tackle the winding roads and enjoy a refreshing ride under the warm sun. Stop by some of the famous temples, like Wat Nokor, before reaching Kratie, a charming riverside town. Kratie is known for its population of Irrawaddy dolphins. In the late afternoon, take a dolphin-watching boat trip at Kampi, where you might spot these unique creatures in their natural habitat before enjoying a local dinner in the town.
Day 5: Kratie to Phnom Penh
Day five offers a longer ride, approximately 150 kilometers to the bustling capital city, Phnom Penh. The journey involves beautiful riverside scenery mixed with rural landscapes, making it a fantastic experience. Upon arriving in Phnom Penh, visit the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda. In the evening, enjoy dinner along the riverside, soaking in the lively atmosphere, with open-air restaurants and street vendors providing a delicious array of taste sensations. Don’t forget to try street food delicacies like fried insects or banh chao, a local pancake.
Day 6: Phnom Penh to Takeo
Preparing to journey further along the Mekong, on day six you’ll ride approximately 80 kilometers to Takeo. This route provides glimpses into the daily lives of Cambodians. Stop at local markets for a taste of fresh produce and street food. Upon reaching Takeo, you can visit the ancient Ta Prohm temple ruins, which, unlike their more famous counterparts in Siem Reap, are often quieter and less explored. Enjoy a peaceful evening as you settle into your accommodation for the night.
Day 7: Takeo to Chau Doc (Vietnam)
Transitioning from Cambodia to Vietnam is an exciting aspect of this trip! Day seven entails riding roughly 120 kilometers to Chau Doc. Early in the day, indulge in the local market before heading towards the border. Crossing into Vietnam, you’ll immediately notice the vibrant culture and a different rhythm of life. Upon arrival in Chau Doc, explore the bustling local markets and take a boat tour of the floating villages and fish farms along the Mekong Delta. Enjoy the stunning sunset over the river before unwinding at your hotel.
Day 8: Chau Doc to Can Tho
Cycling slightly longer today, approximately 120 kilometers, you’ll head towards Can Tho, the largest city in the Mekong Delta. The journey will take you through lush landscapes and scattered villages, giving you a glimpse of both urban and rural life. Upon your arrival in Can Tho, one of the highlights of this city is the Cai Rang Floating Market, where vendors sell fresh produce straight from their boats. Experience a local cooking class in the evening and learn how to prepare authentic Vietnamese dishes.
Day 9: Can Tho to My Tho
On your penultimate day of the tour, you’ll cycle approximately 100 kilometers to My Tho. This leg of the journey takes you deeper into the heart of the Mekong Delta. The e-bikes make exploring the small canals and pathways far more enjoyable. Stop for lunch in one of the local eateries, tasting delicious local specialties. In My Tho, visit the Vinh Trang Pagoda, a stunning blend of Eastern and Western architectural styles. Conclude the day with a leisurely boat ride on the Mekong River, soaking in the picturesque scenery.
Day 10: My Tho to Ho Chi Minh City
Your final day brings you to Ho Chi Minh City, covering the last 70 kilometers of your journey. The ride into Vietnam’s bustling economic hub is filled with anticipation. Upon arrival, you’ll witness a lively skyline and a tapestry of life that is unique to this city. Spend the afternoon visiting the War Remnants Museum and the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral. In the evening, celebrate the end of your incredible adventure with a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant, taking in breathtaking panoramic views of the city.