Cycling Vietnam 14 Days

This morning, we depart from the urban center before embarking on a cycling journey to the Cu Chi Tunnels. This provides an excellent initiation to cycling in Vietnam and an opportunity to ensure the bikes are in optimal condition. The Cu Chi Tunnels, once utilized as sanctuaries by the Viet Cong, served as living quarters and escape routes for guerrillas during the war. The intricate network spans three levels and approximately 240 kilometers. Although certain sections have been widened for visitors, the original tunnels were remarkably narrow, requiring individuals to crawl on hands and knees. For those with claustrophobic tendencies, the option to stay outdoors and enjoy the sunshine is available. Alternatively, if you opt not to visit the tunnels, you can spend an unguided day exploring Saigon. Noteworthy sites include the Emperor of Jade and Giac Lam pagodas, the former Presidential Palace (now the Reunification Hall), Ben Thanh Market, and the War Remnants Museum. 

We depart Saigon by bus before commencing our cycling journey toward the coastal region. Navigating the lesser-traveled backroads, we traverse through tropical fruit orchards and rubber plantations, encountering quaint fishing villages en route as we approach the coastline. Completing our ride in time for lunch, we then embark on a roughly 3-hour transfer to Mui Ne, a serene beach with pristine white sands. Here, we have the opportunity to marvel at the initial sunset over the Eastern Sea. Anticipate spending approximately 4-5 hours on the bus today.

Our cycling journey takes us in the direction of Dalat, with an undulating route punctuated by occasional climbs. En route, we traverse through coffee and tea plantations, meandering past vibrant flower gardens and serene pine forests as we ascend to higher altitudes. Upon reaching a certain point, we rejoin the bus, and the road ascends sharply to the mountainous town of Dalat. Expect to spend approximately 3.5 hours on the bus today. Dalat, once referred to as Le Petit Paris, is a charming hill station lauded as the most picturesque town in Vietnam. Cherished by the French for its favorable climate, it has evolved into a popular honeymoon retreat for the Vietnamese.

The cycling route for today predominantly features undulating terrain, covering approximately 30 kilometers downhill through scenic pine forests and expansive paddy fields. This descent, spanning nearly 1,500 meters, takes us through the breathtaking Bidoup Ba National Park. This region is distinguished by its rare pine forests and dotted with small villages inhabited by ethnic minority communities of the central highlands. Upon reaching the coastal area, we transfer by bus (approximately 1.5 hours) to the vicinity of Nha Trang. From there, we embark on a boat journey to reach our tropical island haven of Whale Island, where we will be staying for the next two nights. Depending on personal preference, today's cycling distance can extend up to 90 kilometers. 

Taking a break from cycling today provides us with the perfect opportunity to truly unwind and rejuvenate. In the morning, we'll partake in a boat excursion, indulging in some snorkeling and swimming in the crystal-clear turquoise waters, followed by a delectable seafood lunch. The afternoon offers optional activities, such as visiting a local fishing village, exploring the Whale Temple, or taking a leisurely stroll around the island to reach the viewpoint. From this vantage point, a 360-degree panoramic view unfolds, showcasing the mesmerizing mountainous coastline and the picturesque coves and pristine white sand beaches. 

Commencing our day early, we embark on a brief transfer from Whale Island, passing through Dai Lanh & Ca Pass. Once at Vung Ro Bay, our cycling journey begins along the scenic coastline, leading us to Tuy Hoa and O Loan Lagoon before reaching Chi Thanh. Here, we pause for lunch and a brief respite before resuming our ride towards La Hai, where we achieve a notable cycling distance of 100 kilometers today—the longest ride of our journey. Following this accomplishment, we transfer for approximately 1 hour to our hotel in Quy Nhon. Expect to spend around 2 hours on the bus today. 

Departing from Quy Nhon, our journey takes us through a newly developed economic zone, crossing the Thi Nai Peninsula and Nhon Hoi Bridge—Vietnam's lengthiest sea bridge. Disembarking from our bikes, we explore a local market where encounters with western tourists are relatively uncommon, making it not unusual to be approached for photos. The coastal route unfolds with picturesque secluded bays, sandy dunes, and beaches adorned with vibrant fishing boats gently bobbing on the Eastern Sea. Our cycling route extends until we reach Phu Ly, after which we transition to a drive heading to Hoi An. If time permits, there's an option to cycle the final 12 kilometers upon turning off Highway 1 into Hoi An.

Hoi An, an original European trading port dating back to the mid-sixteenth century, has evolved into a living museum. It showcases charming wooden merchant's houses and pagoda-style temples reflecting architectural influences from China, Japan, Vietnam, and Europe. The town is not only a delightful place to meander through but also offers a bustling riverside market. We'll spend two nights in Hoi An, providing an excellent opportunity to explore local art or indulge in tailor-made clothing. For the latter, bringing a picture or sample of your desired design is advisable. Anticipate spending approximately 6 hours on the bus today, with a cycling distance of around 50 kilometers. 

This morning, engage in a guided walking tour of Hoi An, delving into the historical significance embedded in the Old Town's structures. Explore notable landmarks such as bridges, temples, wells, and traditional houses. For those with a lesser inclination towards architecture, there's an option to embark on a 5-kilometer cycling journey to the picturesque Cua Dai Beach or cycle towards the Marble Mountains, located 19 kilometers away. These five marble hills, once islands, harbor numerous caves, some of which served as sanctuaries for both Buddhists and the Viet Cong during the war.

Nearby attractions include My Khe Beach, a renowned R&R spot during the war, and Da Nang, featuring the Cham Museum, which, despite its current condition, remains intriguing. Additionally, consider a visit to My Son, a significant Cham temple site in Vietnam, where Cham kings found their resting place as early as the fourth century. While wartime bombings have impacted much of the site, remnants such as stone towers and sanctuaries continue to offer compelling insights. 

Today, our journey leads us northward, either by drive or cycling, en route to Hue. The path takes us across the breathtaking Hai Van Pass, often referred to as the 'Pass of the Ocean Clouds.' The panoramic vistas from the pass are truly captivating, although those who opt to forgo the 580-meter ascent can conveniently catch a lift in the support vehicle. Upon reaching the summit, the descent back to the ocean is a rewarding experience, followed by a continuation through quaint villages and timeless rural landscapes, ultimately bringing us to the outskirts of Hue. From there, we transfer to our city center hotel. Expect to spend approximately 2.5 hours on the bus today, with a cycling distance of around 80 kilometers. 

Hue is often hailed as the cultural and historical hub of Vietnam, offering a plethora of captivating attractions. Our guided tour explores the city and its surrounding tombs, with the citadel standing out as the most remarkable site. Enclosed by six miles of walls, the citadel houses the palaces and halls of the Mandarins, alongside the remnants of the Forbidden Purple City—an exclusive enclave for the emperor, his eunuchs, and concubines.

Embarking on a boat journey along the Perfume River, we reach the ornate tombs of the Nguyen emperors, who once governed Vietnam from Hue. Among these, Tu Duc's Tomb stands out for its intricate design and serene gardens. Our exploration also includes a visit to the renowned Thien Mu Pagoda, which played a central role in anti-government protests during the early 1960s. The pagoda houses the Austin car that transported Thich Quang Duc, a monk who self-immolated in protest against the president in Saigon in 1963. The powerful image of his act was disseminated globally through newspapers.

In the afternoon, we board the Reunification Express for an overnight journey to Hanoi, covering a distance of 688 kilometers to the north. 

Typically, we reach Hanoi early in the morning and take a break for a local breakfast and a leisurely stretch before being greeted by our bus for an approximately 4-hour journey to Halong Bay. Renowned as one of the most breathtakingly beautiful landscapes in Southeast Asia, Halong Bay boasts around 3000 limestone peaks emerging majestically from the crystal-clear emerald sea. Our exploration involves cruising amidst this extraordinary karst scenery, with opportunities to engage in kayaking in the sea, accessing places unreachable by boat (weather permitting). We savor a delectable seafood lunch onboard and spend the night in twin-share cabins with en-suite facilities.

Explore the Me Cung cave and indulge in additional cruising amidst the numerous islands of Halong Bay. In the late afternoon, we return to Hanoi. This enchanting city showcases an array of exquisite old structures, presenting an atmosphere distinct from the southern Saigon, largely influenced by the more conservative nature of Northern Vietnam. Unlike its industrial counterpart, Hanoi's city center exudes a faded charm, characterized by broad tree-lined avenues dating back to the French colonial period, complemented by picturesque lakes and pagodas.

As evening falls, there is the option to attend a performance featuring Hanoi's renowned water puppets. 

For participants opting for the land-only arrangement, the tour concludes this morning in Hanoi following breakfast.