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Day 1
Hanoi
Arrival flight needs to land before 15:00. Departure flight needs to take off after 19:00.
The guide will meet your group at the hotel in the late afternoon. You will spend the evening exploring Vietnam‘s capital, enjoying the colonial era charm of the city. You will spend most of the evening exploring the city by walking around Vietnam’s capital, the colonial era charm of the city, and the surroundings of Hoan Kiem Lake: the heart of the capital city around which all aspects of life in Hanoi revolve. Hoan Kiem Lake is also a place which is associated with a fascinating legend: One day, the heavens entrusted to the Emperor, Le Thai To, a magic sword to chase the invading Chinese out of Vietnam. Once the task was accomplished, as he was walking around the lake, a giant tortoise arose from the waters, took the sword and returned it to his divine owners, hence the name “Lake of the Returned Sword”. After the walk you will go to have dinner in a local restaurant. Meals included: Dinner Accommodation: Overnight at hotel Notes: Rooms will be at guests’ disposal from 14:00 Recommended flight time should arrive in before 15:00 p.m Note: Airport pick up can be provided as a supplement for travelers arriving on a different flight.
Hotel: Hong Ngoc Cochinchine 3* (or similar) -
Day 2
Hanoi
Today, the highlights of Hanoi, the Temple of Literature (Vietnam’s first, and thousand-year-old university), and the Old Quarter await you, featuring a unique mix of artisans and traders, scattered among the thirty-six streets, each named for the crafts that Vietnam (and perhaps even that street) boasts. In the afternoon, you will not only choose your bike for the ride tomorrow, but the guide will also give you some helpful tips on how to ride Vietnam’s trails and roads, as well as an overview of your incredible journey ahead. Meals included: Breakfast, lunch Accommodation: Overnight at hotel
Hotel: Hong Ngoc Cochinchine 3* (or similar) - Day 3 Hanoi - Hoa Binh - Mai Chau Supplement for E-bike from day 3 – day 7 (5 days)
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Day 4
Mai Chau
Today, you will transfer from Mai Chau to Loong Luong intersection and leave the busy road behind to start your ride on a back road, winding along the imposing mountains. Starting from the green tea plantations, the ride will continue through the villages of Black Dao and Flower H’Mong ethnic groups. Then, you will descend to the Chieng Yen village where you may have the chance to witness the peaceful scene of children riding on the one gear bicycles coming back from school. Arriving at the Tat Nang Waterfall, take a break to relax and enjoy your picnic lunch here. After lunch, you will continue your journey cycling along the hidden road, through stunning mountains and overlooking the rice terraces. At the end of the day, you will ascend to the main road and transfer back to your hotel in Mai Chau. Meals included: Breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Overnight at hotel
Level: 3
Distance and duration of cycling: 60-70 kilometers – 5 to 6 hours
Possibility to shorten the cycling tour to 40 Km Difference in elevation: +400 meters / -1100 meters
Terrain: mainly paved roads
Transportation: Full-day vehicle support Duration of transfer to starting point/ Return transfer: from 1 to 1h 30min
Hotel: Sol Bungalows 3* (or similar) -
Day 5
Mai Chau - Pu Luong
Today you will spend the whole morning cycling around the Mai Chau Valley in order to fully discover and take in its beauty. Along the ride, you will have the chance to see a beautiful picture capturing the distinct and authentic traditional lifestyle of the Northern Vietnam ethnic minorities populating the area, their stilt houses, the local schools, and the beautiful rice fields. Passing the villages of Chieng Sai, Mai Ha, Ban Cum, and Mai Hich, you will catch glimpses of the customs, people, and traditions that showcase the intrinsic beauty of this region – aside from its obvious natural splendor. Finally, you will reach the village of Buoc and enjoy your lunch break. After lunch in the village, hop on your bike and cycle to explore other villages in Mai Chau before heading to one of Northern Vietnam’s highlights: the enchanting Pu Luong National Park. Here, the incredible limestone landscapes – quintessential Vietnamese views – and peaceful rural life are your reward for the physical work you have put in! Riding around the park is also a great opportunity to spot birds hidden among the diverse flora (almost 1000 listed plant species in total). The route takes you through beautiful villages, rice fields framed by karst mountains, as well as the primeval jungle, a region and part of Northern Vietnam untouched by most travelers. The cycling road will lead you directly to your accommodation in Pu Luong or you may need a pick-up along the way.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Overnight in Pu Luong (non-private traditional house on stilts)
Level: 4
Distance and duration of cycling: 60-80 kilometers – 6 to 8 hours
Difference in elevation: +1100 meters / -250 meters
Terrain: mainly paved roads
Transportation: Full-day vehicle support
Hotel: The Valley home (Hong Ly home) (or similar) -
Day 6
Pu Luong - Ninh Binh
Starting from your accommodation in Pu Luong, you will cycle along the concrete village roads, enjoy the fresh air and admire the verdant landscaping while passing by the beautiful rice terraces spilling over the area. Along the ride, you will have the opportunity to visit the water wheels and learn about this traditional irrigation system of the area. You will finish your ride today in the late morning, and have a transfer to Ninh Binh. On the way, you will stop for lunch in a local restaurant.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner Accommodation: Overnight at hotel
Level: 2
Distance and duration of cycling: 40-50 kilometers – 4 hours
Difference in elevation: +200 meters / -900 meters
Terrain: Mainly paved road Transportation: Full-day vehicle support Transfer time and duration: 140 kilometers – 3 hours
Hotel: Ninh Binh Legend 4* (or similar) -
Day 7
Ninh Binh
Today, you will ride between the beautiful rice paddy fields and surrounded by the karst formations, which has been named as “Halong Bay on Land”. On the way, you can stop and pay a visit to the Dinh and Le Temples. Then, continue cycling through the beautiful landscapes of Trang An, before heading to a peaceful place and an ideal destination for people looking to immerse themselves in nature, the Cuc Phuong National Park. Cycling on the single road built in the middle of the park, you will get to witness how a tropical rain forest feels and looks like. End your cycling trip for the day by getting a transfer back to the hotel.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Overnight at the hotel
Level: 3
Distance and duration of cycling: 60-70 kilometers – 6 hours
Difference in elevation: +218 meters / -225 meters
Terrain: Mainly flat roads, easy to ride Transportation: Full-day vehicle support
Hotel: Ninh Binh Legend 4* (or similar) -
Day 8
Ninh Binh - Halong
In the morning, you will head towards the famous Halong Bay. You will arrive at Halong at around noon and embark on a cruise around the bay. This world-famous bay is one of the most beautiful landscapes in Vietnam, with giant rock islets covered in lush vegetation overlooking the waters. Halong Bay includes some 1,900 islands and islets of rocky peaks, often uninhabited and untouched by humans. These scenes create a spectacular marine landscape, which earned it UNESCO World Heritage status in 1994. You will be served lunch and dinner aboard the cruise, which consists of excellent, freshly caught seafood from the bay. Don’t miss the sunset on the top deck for some beautiful photo opportunities. At the end of the day, you will also have the chance to enjoy an evening fishing session on the boat.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner Accommodation: Overnight on the boat
Distance: 180 kilometers – 3 hours
Hotel: Calypso Cruise - Oriental Sails (Lan Ha Bay) 3* (or similar) - Day 9 Return Early in the morning (the time depending on the season), wake up to enjoy the stunning sunrise over the aquamarine waters of the bay. Enjoy a morning cruise around the bay until you disembark and return to Hanoi on a road lined with rice fields typical of the Red River Delta. Arrive in Hanoi at about mid-afternoon, and transfer to Noi Bai airport for your onward flight. Meals included: Breakfast Please book your flight to depart out of Hanoi after 19:00 PM.
Included
- Accommodation in the category chosen or similar (subject to availability).
- Meals as mentioned in the program.
- All local boat rental as mentioned in the program.
- Transportation by private vehicle with A/C.
- On cycling days: Group 1 – 3 people: a 15 seat van. Group 4 – 7 people: a 15 seat van + a truck. Group 8 – 12 people: a 30 seat van + a truck.
- All entrance fees and sightseeing as mentioned in the program.
- English speaking cycling guide as mentioned and as following arrangement:
- Group 1 – 3 people: 1 cycling guide. Group 4 – 12 people: 1 cycling guide + 1 mechanic.
- Bike and helmet on cycling days.
- Plenty of water and local snack during cycling days.
Exclusions
- Meals and drinks which are not mentioned in the program.
- International flight tickets and airport taxes. All internal/ regional flight tickets in economy class.
- Visa fees upon arrival in Vietnam.
- Tips & personal expenses. Personal insurance. Any services not clearly mentioned in the program.
Traveling to Vietnam
Vietnam stretches along the eastern edge of the Indochinese Peninsula, bordered by China, Laos and Cambodia. Long and slender, the country spans nearly 1,800 kilometers from north to south, offering remarkable geographic and cultural diversity. Officially a socialist republic since 1975, Vietnam today is a dynamic nation where tradition and modern life coexist harmoniously.
Rice paddies shimmering under the sun, bamboo groves, rivers filled with wooden boats and conical hats define the Vietnamese landscape. Despite a turbulent history marked by colonialism and war, the country has turned the page. Younger generations look firmly toward the future, welcoming travelers with warmth, curiosity and resilience. Vietnam feels authentic, vibrant and deeply human.
HANOI
Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a city of layered history and quiet charm. Influenced by Southeast Asian, Chinese and French cultures, it reveals itself through colonial façades, shaded boulevards, ancient pagodas and bustling streets. The Old Quarter, with its narrow lanes organized by traditional trades, forms the historic heart of the city.
Daily life unfolds around lakes, markets and small temples, while street food stalls fill the air with enticing aromas. Hanoi moves at a slower pace than the south, inviting visitors to observe, wander and absorb the atmosphere.
HO CHI MINH CITY
Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam’s economic powerhouse. Larger and more energetic than Hanoi, it is a cosmopolitan metropolis where modern skyscrapers rise beside colonial buildings and lively street markets. The city is divided into numerous districts, each with its own character.
Despite its scale, Ho Chi Minh City remains welcoming and approachable. From small sidewalk cafés to refined restaurants, the energy is contagious and the smiles genuine. This is where Vietnam’s rapid economic growth is most visible.
MEKONG DELTA
In the far south lies the Mekong Delta, a fertile region shaped by one of Asia’s great rivers. Known as Vietnam’s “rice bowl,” the delta is a maze of waterways, orchards, floating villages and mangroves. Life here is deeply connected to the river, and traditional songs and customs still thrive along its banks.
The delta continues to expand slowly each year as the river deposits its silt, reinforcing its role as a vital agricultural and cultural region.
CAN THO
Can Tho is the largest city in the Mekong Delta and an important regional hub. Despite its growth, it has retained a relaxed, provincial feel. Just outside the city center, rice fields and fruit orchards stretch as far as the eye can see.
The floating markets are among its most iconic sights, where boats loaded with fruits and vegetables gather at dawn. A striking cable-stayed bridge spans the Mekong, symbolizing the city’s modern development.
DAILY LIFE AND TRADITIONS
One of the most memorable experiences in Vietnam is a pedicab ride, a slow and immersive way to explore cities while observing everyday life. Vietnamese culture values harmony, politeness and emotional restraint. A smile may express friendliness, embarrassment or diplomacy, and patience is always appreciated.
Hospitality is sincere, and travelers who remain calm and respectful will often find solutions to any situation more easily.
VIETNAMESE CUISINE
Vietnamese cuisine is light, aromatic and balanced, relying on fresh herbs, subtle spices and contrasting textures. Rice is the foundation of most meals, served plain, sticky or fried. Noodle soups such as pho are enjoyed throughout the day, while banh mi sandwiches reflect the country’s French influence.
Meals are social moments, and flavors vary noticeably from north to south, offering endless culinary discoveries.
SHOPPING AND SOUVENIRS
Vietnam is rich in craftsmanship. Lacquerware, silk textiles, conical hats and handmade goods reflect centuries-old techniques still practiced today. Cities like Hoi An are especially well suited for shopping, with pedestrian streets, night markets and tailor-made clothing available at accessible prices.
Bargaining is customary, particularly in markets, and is considered part of the experience.
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
The capital is Hanoi, and the official language is Vietnamese. The local currency is the Vietnamese dong, with very high denominations that can make visitors feel like instant millionaires. Credit cards are widely accepted in cities, and electricity runs at 220 volts. Vietnam is eleven hours ahead of Montréal.
CLIMATE AND BEST TIME TO VISIT
Vietnam’s climate varies significantly by region. The south remains hot and humid year-round, with a rainy season from summer to early autumn. The north experiences cooler winters, sometimes surprisingly cold, especially in mountainous areas.
Spring and autumn are generally the most pleasant seasons to travel, offering moderate temperatures and fewer weather disruptions. Light rain is always possible, so flexible planning is recommended.
SAFETY AND HEALTH
Vietnam is considered one of the safest destinations in Asia. Violent crime against travelers is rare, and the overall atmosphere is calm and friendly. Basic precautions are sufficient.
Tap water should not be consumed; bottled water is readily available everywhere. Medical care is satisfactory, with modern private hospitals available in major cities. The Canadian Embassy is located in Hanoi.
LANGUAGE AND CULTURAL NOTES
Although French influence remains visible in architecture, the language is now spoken mainly by guides and older generations. English is increasingly common among younger Vietnamese. Written Vietnamese uses the Latin alphabet, making signs and place names easier to read for visitors.
Name: Cycling along Vietnam’s red river delta
Brand: Pathways of the World
Quality: Tourist Class
Tour Type: Wellness
Start City: Hanoi
End City: Hanoi
Vacation Overview:
Cycle and explore northern Vietnam’s lush natural scenery, its rich culture and ethnic diversity! This tour is ideal for travelers looking for an active cycling holiday in Vietnam. It gives travelers enough time to cycle and explore northern Vietnam’s lush natural scenery, its rich culture and ethnic diversity, while still setting time aside for some real leisure and relaxation during a cruise around the world-renowned Halong Bay.
