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Day 1
Arrival - Ho Chi Minh
Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City – transfer to the hotel by own arrangement. At 13:30, the guide will meet your group in the hotel lobby for a trip briefing. After that, you will visit the historic landmarks of the colonial city once known as Saigon: the old Saigon Central Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral, Chinatown of Cho Lon and Ben Thanh Market. You will have a group dinner in a local restaurant where the guide will talk more about your cycling tour in Vietnam.
Meals included: Dinner Accommodation: Overnight at hotel
Note: - Hotel room is at disposal from 14:00 - Notre Dame Cathedral is closed for renovation until 2027 - only exterior visits possible.
Hotel: Vien Dong Hotel (or similar) - Day 2 Ho Chi Minh - Can Be - Vinh Long E-bike in Vietnam for 5 cycling days (Saigon to Chau Doc) –available with 10 bikes only
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Day 3
Vinh Long - Tra Vinh
Begin the day by embarking on a local boat ride to reach your vehicle, which will take you to Vinh Long, a famous fruit town on the Mekong. From here, begin cycling through the countryside's narrow lanes and lush orchards. The local life, vibrant and perched right on the riverbanks, will charm you as you pedal around the picturesque Delta homes and villages. Make a stop for lunch, before continuing through a coconut plantation. Then, catch a ferry to cross the main arm of the Mekong and head to Tra Vinh, a Khmer town where you will stay overnight. Once you arrive and settle in Tra Vinh, you will have plenty of time to explore its paths and trails if you like.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner Accommodation: Overnight at hotel
Level: 2
Distance and duration of cycling: 60 to 70 kilometers – 7 hours (including breaks)
Difference in elevation: None
Terrain: Concrete canal paths, narrow countryside lanes Transportation: Full-day vehicle support – 26 kilometers – 30 minutes + ferry crossing 5-10 minutes
Hotel: Tra Vinh Guest House 2* (or similar) -
Day 4
Tra Vinh - Can Tho
On day 4 set out straight from your hotel to the Ba Om Lotus Pond, where you can stop and explore a Khmer temple, as well as a few villages sprawled along your path. As you cross bountiful rice fields, take in the tranquility that these landscapes exude until you reach Can Tho by bicycle (or by bus/van if you choose), where you will spend the night.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Overnight at hotel
Level: 3
Distance and duration of cycling: 60 to 100 kilometers – 7 to 10 hours (including breaks) Difference in elevation: None
Terrain: Concrete canal paths, narrow countryside lanes
Transportation: Full-day vehicle support – 54 kilometers – 1 hour
Hotel: Iris Can Tho 4* (or similar) -
Day 5
Can Tho - Long Xuyen
The day will begin with a boat trip to the Cai Rang Market. Once you arrive, you can cycle or ride in the vehicle around the market along the river. Then, set off for the day on your bicycle, crossing through several more charming villages as you head to Stork Sanctuary. You will soak up incredible sights of seemingly-endless cottage industries, timber merchants, coconut shredders, small docks loading and unloading rice, and tiny, yet vibrant markets. Depending on how you feel, you can take the support vehicle or keep on cycling directly to a local restaurant for lunch. In the afternoon, continue riding through the picturesque countryside, before catching your vehicle back to your hotel in Long Xuyen.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner Accommodation: Overnight at hotel
Level: 3
Distance and duration of cycling: 50 to 90 kilometers – 5 to 8 hours (including breaks) Difference in elevation: None
Terrain: Concrete canal paths, countryside narrow lanes
Transportation: Full-day vehicle support – shorter cycling tour – 40 kilometers – 1h 30min (3 short transfers)
Hotel: Hoa Binh 1 Hotel - An Giang 2* (or similar) -
Day 6
Long Xuyen - Chau Doc
After a short trip to the starting point, begin the day by riding along the busy river channels and traditional brick factories on the way to Chau Doc. Along the way, make a stop to explore the Tra Su Nature Reserve, before arriving in Chau Doc and settling into the night's accommodations.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Overnight at hotel
Level: 2 or 3
Distance and duration of cycling: 60 to 100 kilometers
Difference in elevation: None
Terrain: Concrete canal paths, narrow countryside lanes
Duration of transportation: Shorter cycling tour – 37 kilometers – 1 hour Transportation: Full-day vehicle support
Note: Possible to add a visit to the Killing Fields of Vietnam Bachuc, where Pol Pot’s regime massacred over 3,000 Vietnamese in 1978, before reaching Chau Doc.
Hotel: Chau Pho Hotel 3* (or similar) -
Day 7
Chau Doc - Phnom Penh
During the morning you will board a speedboat from Chau Doc to Phnom Penh. Upon arrival, your guide in Cambodia will welcome you and take you to the hotel. In the afternoon, you will experience Phnom Penh in a truly exceptional way by local tuk tuk. You will see places rarely visited by tourists and have the chance to be immersed in this city of contrasts, its culture, history and its colorful daily life. During the tour, you will visit hidden temples and monuments, vibrant markets, architectural highlights, cultural institutes with private short movie screenings, and even a fortune teller on the riverside.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Overnight at hotel in Phnom Penh
Speedboat: 4hr 30min (depart Chau Doc at 07:00)
Hotel: Lavanya Boutique Hotel 3* (or similar) - Day 8 Phnom Penh - Kampong Cham E-bike Cambodia for 5 cycling days (Phnom Penh to Siem Reap)
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Day 9
Kampong Cham - Sambor Prei Knuk - Kampong Thom
Today, your final destination will be Kompong Thom, the region where the famous Sambor Prei Kuk Archaeological site is located. This site has been recently nominated as UNESCO World Heritage Site. It covers a huge area of 25 square kilometers, including a walled city center, as well as numerous temples dated from the 6th to 9th centuries, ten of which are octagonal, unique exemplars of their type in Southeast Asia. To reach this stunning site, you will pedal along dirt trails, passing through rural villages, rice fields and different plantations. Here you can stop in different local stalls to taste some delicious Cambodian fruits and snacks. After lunch, you will finally reach the archaeological site. You will not only cycle through the wild and verdant jungles, but you can also disembark to explore some of the temples slowly being engulfed by the encroaching jungle.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Overnight at the hotel
Level: 2-3
Distance and duration of cycling: 60 to 80 kilometers – 4 to 6 hours
Difference in elevation: + 150 meters / - 0 meters Terrain: Flat dirt roads, paved road last 5 kilometers
Transportation: Full-day vehicle support – 85 kilometers – 1h 40min (Kompong Cham to starting point) / 39 kilometers – 40 minutes (Sambor Prei Kuk to hotel)
Notes: - Early breakfast suggested, departure from the hotel at 07:30 - Possibility to reach the hotel in Kompong Thom by bicycle, avoiding the transfer by vehicle – total cycling distance is 80 kilometers
Hotel: Sambor Village 3* (or similar) -
Day 10
Kampong Thom - Beng Mealea - Siem Reap
Today, you will cycle to Beng Mealea temple, a slumbering giant lost for centuries in the forests of Cambodia. Constructed by Suryavarman II in the 12th century, the builder of Angkor Wat, the temple is the most accessible of Angkor’s lost temples, a mirror image of Angkor Wat itself despite being heavily affected by nature. You will first discover the surrounding hidden temples and end the trip with an exploration of Beng Mealea. After the visit, you will continue cycling along the main road towards the south to reach a countryside trail. En route, you will get to see charming villages, palm trees and endless rice fields before stopping by Troav Kot Lake for lunch. After the break, you will head to Siem Reap, your final destination.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Overnight at the hotel
Level: 3
Distance and duration of cycling: 65 kilometers – 4 hours
Difference in elevation: +105 meters / -67 meters Terrain: Dirt and sandy roads, paved road last 6 kilometers
Transportation: Full-day vehicle support – 148 kilometers – 2h 15min (Kompong Thom to Beng Mealea)
Note: Early breakfast suggested, departure at 07:30
Hotel: Amber Angkor Villa Hotel & Spa 3* (or similar) -
Day 11
Siem Reap - Angkor Complex
Depart early to watch the sunrise at the archaeological site of Angkor Wat. After sunrise and an exploration of the site, head to the starting point for your day’s adventure. You will first visit the magnificent South Gate of Angkor Thom, the great capital of the Khmer Empire. Then, cycle towards the center of Angkor Thom's complex to reach the mystical Bayon Temple, once the state temple of the Khmer capital. It is one of the most beautifully-designed temples of the Archaeological Park, boasting an incredible 54 finely-sculpted Buddha faces. After soaking in Bayon, continue to explore the ancient capital at your own pace, admiring the elephant terrace and other jungle-bound temples, before making your journey to Preah Khan and Ta Phrom. You will cycle along an off-road trail, and suddenly, you will reach Preah Khan, the “Sacred Sword Temple”, and the magnificent Ta Phrom, known as the "Tomb Raider Temple." Undoubtedly, this is one of the most atmospheric temples, where the surrounding vegetation has blended into the ruins, creating a mystical sight. Proceed on and arrive at Srah Srang, the ancient reservoir of Angkor. Enjoy the stunning view and take a rest before heading back to the hotel.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Overnight at hotel in Siem Reap Level: 2
Distance and duration of cycling: 40 kilometers – 4 hours (full-day activity including temple visits) Difference in elevation: Less than 150 meters Terrain: Mostly narrow jungle off-road trails, some sections on paved road
Transportation: Full-day vehicle support, 10 kilometers – 30 minutes (from the hotel to starting point), 10 kilometers – 30 minutes (from the end point to the hotel)
Note: Possibility to extend the daily kilometers of cycling to 50 kilometers, reducing the transfer.
Hotel: Amber Angkor Villa Hotel & Spa 3* (or similar) -
Day 12
Siem Reap
After traveling to the starting point, begin riding your bicycle on an unpaved road through charming rural villages surrounded by palm trees and rice fields. The people in the villages live in charming wooden houses with abundant gardens, used to grow vegetables. On the way, you will see the cultural phenomenon of a fruit called betel, which the local people harvest and dry in front of their houses. Continue riding until you reach the boat pier of Kompong Kleang, one of the most populated floating villages on the Tonle Sap lake. Before the visit, you will stop in a local stilted house to enjoy a picnic lunch amongst the exceptional scenery and atmosphere. After lunch, set off to explore the floating village and the lake by boat. Once you reach the end of the canal, you will realize the immensity of this lake, whose horizon stretches as far as the eye can see (during the dry season, a walk to meet the locals of Kompong Kleang is offered before you set out for the cruise). You can rest there, enjoying the view, before traveling back to Siem Reap.
Meals included: Breakfast, picnic lunch Accommodation: Overnight at hotel in Siem Reap Level: 2
Distance and duration of cycling: 50 kilometers – 5 hours
Difference in elevation: Less than 150 meters Terrain: Mainly off-road with countryside trails, last part paved road to access the town Transportation: Full-day vehicle support – 15 kilometers – 30 minutes (from the hotel to the starting point). Take the boat and reach the Kompong Kleang homestay where you will have lunch – estimated time 30 minutes to reach the house. Transfer back – 50 kilometers, 1h 30min (from the end point to the hotel)
Note: From 15 February the boat trip cannot operate with big boats from 10 pax up due to low water levels – only small boats are available (1-9). So, for groups from 10 pax up we will do the boat trip at Chong Kneas instead.
Hotel: Amber Angkor Villa Hotel & Spa 3* (or similar) - Day 13 Return Take the final day at leisure and check out by 12:00. Then transfer by your own arrangement to the airport for your outbound flight. Meal: Breakfast Note: Check-out at the hotel will be latest 12:00
Included
- Accommodation in the category chosen or similar (subject to availability).
- Meals as mentioned in the program. B: Breakfast; L: Lunch; D: Dinner.
- Transportation by private vehicle with A/C. + On cycling days in Vietnam: 1 – 3 persons: a 15s van. 4 – 7 persons: a 15s van + 1 truck. 8 – 15 persons: a 30s van + 1 truck.
- On cycling days in Cambodia: 1 – 4 persons: a 15s van. 5 – 8 persons: a 15s van + a truck. 9 – 15 persons: a 25s van + a truck.
- Bike & helmet per person on cycling days.
- Plenty of water and snacks during cycling days.
- All entrance fees and sightseeing as mentioned in the program.
- English speaking cycling guide(s) as mentioned in Vietnam and Cambodia on cycling days.
- A mechanic for group of 4 – 15 person in Vietnam and 5 – 15 persons in Cambodia on 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 and Cambodia.
- Tips & personal expenses. Personal insurance. Any services not clearly mentioned in the program.
Cambodia – At a Glance
Cambodia is a Southeast Asian country with a strong and contrasting identity. Its landscapes range from vast fertile plains and rice fields dotted with sugar palms to forest-covered mountains, the Mekong Delta, and a peaceful coastline along the Gulf of Thailand. The country is deeply shaped by the legacy of the Khmer Empire, whose monumental remains still testify to its former grandeur. Phnom Penh, the capital, concentrates much of this historical and cultural wealth, while the northwest of the country is home to the extraordinary Angkor complex, one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the world.
General Information
The capital of Cambodia is Phnom Penh. The country covers an area of 181,035 km², and the official language is Khmer. The national currency is the riel, although in everyday life the US dollar is widely used and often more practical for travelers. Bargaining is an integral part of local culture, especially in markets. Prices quoted to visitors are often higher than those charged to locals, making negotiation almost unavoidable. This is generally done in a friendly spirit, with patience, smiles, and good humor. The international dialing code is +855. Cambodia is 12 hours ahead of Montreal, and the electrical voltage is 230 volts.
Did You Know…
Cambodia is often associated with two contrasting images: the extraordinary splendor of Angkor and the trauma left by the Khmer Rouge regime. Today, the country has regained long-term stability and is gradually opening up to the world, thanks in part to improved infrastructure. Beyond Angkor, the Cambodian countryside reveals an authentic beauty, with peaceful villages, endless rice fields, and almost hypnotic landscapes. Coconut trees and sugar palms shape the horizon, while a few isolated hills break the monotony of the plains. Many travelers fall in love with this atmosphere and with the local population, known for its gentleness and warm smiles. Certain regions, such as the Cardamom Mountains and Mondulkiri Province, are still home to wild elephants, a powerful symbol of Cambodia’s preserved natural heritage.
Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, was once known as the “Pearl of Southeast Asia.” During the French colonial period, the city developed around wide boulevards lined with elegant buildings that highlighted pagodas and the Royal Palace. After independence, King Norodom Sihanouk continued this vision of urban refinement, giving the city its distinctive charm. Today, despite heavy traffic, Phnom Penh captivates visitors with the golden silhouette of the Royal Palace, the colonial façades along Sisowath Quay, and the constant bustle of its markets. Key attractions include Wat Phnom, the Independence Monument, the Silver Pagoda, and the Cambodia–Vietnam Friendship Monument.
Angkor Wat
Located in Siem Reap Province, Angkor Wat is the largest and most iconic temple within the Angkor complex, which spans nearly 400 km². Built in the early 12th century during the reign of King Suryavarman II, it served both as a state temple and an imperial capital. Initially dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu, it later became an important Buddhist center. Remarkably well preserved, Angkor Wat impresses with the richness of its bas-reliefs and the harmony of its architecture. Its scale and beauty often lead it to be considered a true wonder of the world. The site is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Angkor Thom
Angkor Thom, meaning “the Great City,” was built by King Jayavarman VII. This former royal capital forms a vast square approximately three kilometers on each side, surrounded by ramparts and moats. Each of its monumental gates is adorned with sculpted faces symbolizing royal power. Inside the city walls lie the ruins of ancient palaces, temples, and the famous Terrace of the Elephants, once used for royal ceremonies and processions.
Siem Reap
Located about 314 kilometers northwest of Phnom Penh, Siem Reap is today the main gateway to the Angkor temples. Its name, derived from an ancient conflict with the Siamese kingdom, literally means “Defeat of the Siamese.” Since the early 2000s, the city has experienced significant tourism development. Visitors find a harmonious blend of temples, pagodas, lively districts, French colonial influences, and traditional markets, particularly the bustling Old Market.
Cuisine
Cambodian cuisine is the result of many influences, notably Vietnamese, Thai, Chinese, and French. Rice plays a central role, accompanied by soups, vegetables, noodles, and especially freshwater fish, which is a staple of the local diet. Dishes are flavored with lemongrass, ginger, coriander, and prahok, a traditional fermented fish paste. One of the most famous specialties is amok, made with fish or chicken, coconut milk, and spices, steamed in a banana leaf. Marinated beef, grilled or fried fish, sweet-and-sour soups, and local hot pots are also part of everyday cuisine. More adventurous travelers may sample unusual delicacies such as grilled insects or stuffed frogs. Abundant and flavorful tropical fruits complete the meals.
Drinks
As tap water is not drinkable, bottled water is essential. Local beers, particularly Angkor and Cambodia, are light and very popular. Imported wine is available in higher-end restaurants. Palm wine and rice alcohol, often produced artisanally, are commonly consumed locally. Green tea is widespread, while coffee tends to be quite strong. Teukolok, a traditional Khmer drink made from blended fruit, ice, and milk, is very popular, though travelers should pay attention to hygiene conditions.
Shopping and Souvenirs
Cambodian craftsmanship is gradually being revived after nearly disappearing during the war years. Markets in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap are filled with souvenirs such as the krama, a traditional checkered scarf, sampot textiles, wooden carvings, and copper objects. Kampot pepper, considered one of the finest in the world, is a highly sought-after souvenir. Exporting any Khmer antiquities or ancient temple objects is strictly prohibited, and customs controls are very strict.
Safety
Since the end of fighting in 1998, Cambodia has entered a period of stability. Phnom Penh has undergone major transformation and is no longer considered one of the most dangerous capitals in Southeast Asia. Basic vigilance remains necessary, particularly regarding bag snatching and petty theft. It is advisable to carry limited cash and keep passports in a secure place. The Canadian Embassy is located in Phnom Penh.
Health Advice
The hot and humid climate requires proper sun protection and regular hydration. Effective sunscreen and headwear are strongly recommended, especially when visiting Angkor. Medical facilities are limited, so it is advisable to consult practitioners recommended by local guides and to review Health Canada’s travel health recommendations before departure.
Climate
Cambodia has a tropical climate with two main seasons. The dry season, from November to March, offers more comfortable temperatures ranging between 25 and 30°C. The monsoon season, from May to October, is hotter and very humid, with heavy but usually short-lived rainfall. April and May are among the hottest months of the year. The best time to visit is between November and March, when weather conditions are most pleasant.
Religions and Beliefs
Buddhism is the dominant religion in Cambodia and plays a central role in daily life. Introduced after Hinduism, it became predominant from the 13th century onward. Monks hold an essential spiritual role and live on offerings from the population, a tradition deeply rooted in Khmer culture.
Etiquette and Customs
In Cambodia, restraint and respect are essential. Losing one’s temper or raising one’s voice is very poorly perceived, as it causes loss of face. Politeness, discretion, and modest dress are highly valued, particularly in public and religious spaces. Greetings are expressed with hands pressed together, with the height of the gesture varying according to the status of the person addressed. Criticizing the royal family is strictly frowned upon, as the king embodies national unity and tradition. Acts of generosity toward the elderly or war-disabled are common, reflecting the strong sense of solidarity within Cambodian society.
Name: Cycling from the Mekong Delta to Angkor Wat
Brand: Pathways of the World
Quality: Tourist Class
Tour Type: Wellness
Start City: Ho Chi Minh City
End City: Siem Reap
Vacation Overview:
HIGHLIGHTS
- An introduction to the most famous historic landmarks of the colonial city once known as Saigon
- Cross bountiful rice fields and exotic fruit plantations and the tranquil Cambodian countryside as you cycle along the Mekong Delta
- Discover colorful Phnom Penh’s secret gems from hidden temples and monuments to fortune tellers on the riverside
- Visit Cambodia’s most recently nominated UNESCO World Heritage site: the ancient Sambor Prei Kuk – one of the region’s oldest temple complexes
- Explore the lesser visited Angkorian temple of Beng Mealea – a slumbering giant lost for centuries in the forests of Cambodia
- Experience the morning majesty of a sunrise at the Angkor Wat Archaeological Park and slowly meander through the awe-inspiring temple complex by bicycle
- Visit a stilted community on the Tonle Sap and get a glimpse into the way of life in the floating villages of Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake
