Fantastic Cycling Saigon to Angkor Wat 9 Days: exploring vibrant landscapes, rich culture, stunning temples of Angkor Complex, Mekong Delta and Mekong River along the whole way from Vietnam to Siem Reap in Cambodia..
Day 1: Arrival in Saigon
Your adventure begins in the bustling metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon. Upon your arrival, you’ll be met by our friendly guide who will assist you in transferring to your hotel. Take some time to relax and acclimatize after your journey. In the evening, venture out to explore the vibrant streets of Saigon.
Stroll through the famous Ben Thanh Market or unwind at a local café, sipping on Vietnamese coffee. You might also want to visit historical landmarks like the War Remnants Museum or the Reunification Palace, which provide an insightful look into Vietnam’s rich history. Gather your essentials for the cycling tour, and enjoy a welcomed dinner at a Vietnamese restaurant, indulging in local delicacies like pho and banh xeo, while mingling with your fellow cyclists.
Inclusions:
- Bus/minibus
- Support truck
- MT.Bicycle with helmet
- Meals
- Drinking mineral water
- Mixture of 3 & 4 star hotels, 3 & 4 star resorts
- Experienced cycling tour guide
Day 2: Saigon to Ben Tre (Cycle 57 km)
After breakfast, it’s time to gear up and hit the road for your first day of cycling. The route from Saigon to Ben Tre, the heart of the Mekong Delta, is captivating with its lush landscapes and lively rural life. Pedaling through the countryside, you will pass through quaint villages and rice paddies, and can observe the daily rhythms of local life.
You’ll stop along the way for lunch at a local eatery, enjoying fresh local ingredients. Upon reaching Ben Tre, you’ll have time to unwind and take in the serene river views. The evening will be spent exploring the town, trying local specialties like coconut candy, a signature treat of the area.
Day 3: Ben Tre to Can Tho (Cycle 55 km)
After breakfast, prepare for another day of cycling as you journey from Ben Tre to Can Tho, one of the largest cities in the Mekong Delta. The route is filled with scenic beauty, surrounded by lush landscapes, meandering rivers, and thriving orchards. You’ll ride through rural communities and cross rivers via local ferries, providing an authentic experience of life in the Delta.
Upon reaching Can Tho, take a moment to get settled into your accommodation. Can Tho is famous for its floating markets, particularly the Cai Rang Floating Market, which is a must-visit. You can wander through the market and experience the vibrancy of local trade before enjoying dinner at a riverside restaurant.
Day 4: Can Tho to Chau Doc (Cycle 50 km)
Your ride today takes you from Can Tho to Chau Doc, a city close to the Cambodian border. This route promises picturesque views filled with rice fields, rural communities, and riverside landscapes. As you cycle, take the opportunity to engage with locals and learn about their traditional ways of life.
After checking into your hotel in Chau Doc, the evening is yours to explore this charming town. A visit to the local market, full of fresh produce and local delicacies, is highly recommended. If time allows, consider a short sunset boat trip on the Mekong River.
Day 5: Chau Doc to Phnom Penh (Speedboat)
On this day, you’ll bid farewell to Vietnam and take a scenic speedboat ride to Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia. The ride is a striking journey through the waterways of the Mekong, allowing you to witness riverside communities and picturesque landscapes.
Once you arrive in Phnom Penh, you’ll check in at your hotel before venturing out to explore the city. Phnom Penh is rich in history and culture; highlights include the Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda, and the National Museum. In the evening, enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant along the Tonle Sap River with the breathtaking sunset as your backdrop.
Day 6: Phnom Penh to Siem Reap (Cycle 40 km)
The next leg of your journey takes you from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap, where the legendary Angkor Wat temple complex awaits. This is a longer riding day, so be prepared for an exhilarating experience. The ride will take you through picturesque Cambodian countryside, dotted with rice paddies and small villages. The warmth of the locals and their friendly smiles will inspire you along the way.
You may take a break for lunch in a local village, where you can taste traditional Cambodian dishes. After reaching Siem Reap, settle into your hotel and relax. In the evening, explore the vibrant night market where souvenirs, handicrafts, and delicious street food await.
Day 7: Cycling in Angkor Complex
Today marks a highlight of your holiday in Asia: cycling through the magnificent Angkor Complex. The ancient temples are a UNESCO World Heritage site and offer breathtaking sights paired with rich history. Start your day early to catch the sunrise at Angkor Wat, an enchanting experience that will leave you in awe.
After a hearty breakfast, hop on your bike and explore the sprawling temple grounds. Must-see sites include the Bayon Temple with its serene stone faces and Ta Prohm, famously known for its intertwining tree roots and hauntingly beautiful ruins. Spend the day wandering through these historical sites, immersing yourself in Cambodia’s rich culture and history.
In the late afternoon, return to Siem Reap, where you can relax after an exhilarating day. Tonight, consider indulging in a traditional Khmer dinner followed by a performance of the Apsara Dance, a remarkable aspect of Cambodian heritage.
Day 8: Siem Reap: Cycle to Banteay Srei and Kampong Phluk (Cycle 60 km)
Your final full day of cycling starts with a ride to Banteay Srei, one of the most beautiful temples in the Angkor region, known for its intricate carvings and pink sandstone. The ride to this temple takes you through rural villages, showcasing the serene landscapes of the Cambodian countryside.
After visiting Banteay Srei, cycle onward to Kampong Ph, a fascinating floating village located on the Tonle Sap Lake. Here, you can explore the unique community living on water and witness the lifestyle of its inhabitants. Enjoy lunch at a local eatery and have the chance to learn about the village’s fishing-based culture.
In the evening, return to Siem Reap, where you can spend your final night enjoying the local cuisine, perhaps at one of the many international restaurants along Pub Street, where you can share stories and reminisce about your incredible journey.
Day 9: Departure from Siem Reap
On the final day of your adventure, savor a leisurely breakfast before preparing for departure. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for one last exploration of Siem Reap or a visit to local shops for souvenirs. As you reflect on the colorful experiences of the last nine days—cycling through vibrant landscapes, bustling markets, and ancient temples—carry these memories with you, cherishing the spirit of adventure that the Saigon to Angkor Wat cycling tour provided.
Your incredible cycling through Vietnam and Cambodia immerses you in the rich tapestry of Southeast Asian culture, landscapes, and history, leaving you with lasting memories and a longing for future adventures.