This bike journey — much like Thailand's geography and history — is shaped by the flow of rivers. In the north, the Ping descends from the mountains into Chiang Mai. In the Central Plains, the Yom meanders through the ancient landscape of Sukhothai, while the Ping and Nan rivers converge to create the mighty Chao Phraya, the River of Kings. In the Mae Klong Delta, the rivers fan out and spill into the Gulf of Thailand. Along these valleys and plains, expansive rice paddies, villages, towns, and remnants of once-powerful empires come to life. Over 14 days, we wind along scenic backcountry roads for an in-depth exploration of what has made Thailand — the so-called “Land of Smiles” — the vibrant country it is today. With manageable daily distances, limited climbing, and plenty of off-saddle exploration, plus delectable Thai cuisine and cosy accommodations (many along rivers!), this is the ideal tour for those seeking an active yet immersive Thai holiday.
We start in Chiang Mai, exploring this storied city by bike before heading south through the rustic countryside of “Lanna” (the local name for northern Thailand). Along the way, we discover glittering temples, charming heritage towns, and an agrarian world shaped by Buddhist and animist beliefs. Next, we venture into the heartland of the ancient Sukhothai Empire, visiting its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the grand capital and its pottery-producing satellite city of Sri Satchanalai, as well as the military fortress of Kamphaeng Phet. Riding through Thailand’s rice basket, we follow the Chao Phraya River, flanked by expansive paddy fields stretching to the horizon. By day 9, we reach Ayutthaya, where the UNESCO-listed ruins of the former Siamese capital offer a faded reminder of past glory. We then veer west into Kanchanaburi, where jungle-clad mountains loom over the plains of the historic River Kwai. The last leg of our journey takes us to the Mae Klong Delta, home to Thailand’s most famous floating market and endless coconut farms. Afterward, we transfer to Bangkok for a final ride through an urban oasis before bidding farewell over dinner aboard a converted rice barge cruising along the River of Kings. The tour concludes in Bangkok.
Join us on this eye-opening ride into the heart and soul of Old-World Siam!
Bicycle tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Chiang Mai, Kanchanaburi, Bangko
Chiang Mai, Kanchanaburi, Bangkok, Lampang, Sukhothai, Uthai Thani, Ayutthaya
Northern Thailand is the country’s premier gravel biking destination. On this 11-day tour from Chiang Mai to the banks of the mighty Mekong River, we layer our tires with grit on the region's fabulous dirt and gravel trails before shaking it off with fast-paced zips on smooth, paved roads. We satisfy the craving for the burn on leg-testing climbs before relishing the thrill of wrist-clenching descents. We discover lush valleys and highlands filled with rice paddies, mango orchards, tea plantations, coffee farms, and teak trees while exploring a rich multi-cultural heritage shaped by Thai and hilltribe traditions.
Meeting in the city of Chiang Mai, the cultural capital of the north, the tour is divided into four main stages:
Stage 1: Valleys of the North. The first five days involve hopping across three broad valleys - Chiang Mai, Chiang Dao, and Fang – for some fabulous backcountry cycling. Highlights include long stretches of gravel tracks through rice fields and fruit farms, ascents and descents through wild greenery, and views over some of Thailand’s tallest mountains.
Stage 2: The Highlands. After a night at a riverside hotel in the town of Tha Ton, we coil our way up a well-paved road to the mountaintop village of Mae Salong, renowned for its oolong tea and Chinese heritage.
Stage 3: Chiang Rai. On Day 7, we rise and fall with the contours of hills covered in cornfields and follow the Mae Kok River to reach the iconic White Temple. We have a rest day in Chiang Rai, a charming city with plenty on offer to fill a relaxed day.
Stage 4: The Mekong. We ride through the backwaters of Chiang Rai Province to the famed Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar and Laos converge at the confluence of the Mekong River, which we follow south to end the tour in the sleepy border town of Chiang Khong.
Join us on this trailblazing gravel bike tour in northern Thailand!
Bicycle tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Chiang K
Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Chiang Khong, Chiang Dao, Tha Ton, Chiang Saen
With 54 ethnic groups, a staggering ecological variety, and a multiplicity of climates and terrain, it's easy to see why Vietnam has long proven irresistible to explorers! The country's S-shaped stretch of coastline and its spine of jagged inland mountains create a cultural and natural diversity with few parallels in the world. Cycling fits perfectly into the local way of life, where the roads are communal spaces shared by all, whether it’s an entire family loaded onto a single motorbike, a wedding tent packed with well-wishers, or a farmer leading a gigantic water buffalo to the rice fields.
Leaving the nation’s capital, we ride among the surreal geological forms of Ninh Binh and delve into the natural refuge of Cuc Phuong Park, where the rare species of the region are protected. Making use of the iconic Vietnamese train system, we rest in comfortable berths and wake up in Dong Hoi, then cycle to preserved tunnels of the Viet Cong and across the wartime dividing line between North and South Vietnam. The imperial capital of Hue encapsulates layers of Vietnamese history that we will discover as we ride among its landmarks and serene rivers. Soaring above Da Nang on the Hai Van Pass, we will enter the heart of central Vietnam in the ancient trading port of Hoi An, with its commingled influences from near and far, and the Hindu Cham site of My Son, which offers glimpses into a lost empire. The abundance of Vietnam’s farmland and fisheries is evident everywhere in the rural regions around Quang Ngai, Quy Nhon, and Tuy Hoa, each of which also has prosperous urban centres that draw us into the exuberant modern side of Vietnam. Dynamic coastal riding offers spectacular views over pristine beaches and hidden coves, while our carefully-chosen seaside resorts allow us to kick back and relax at the end of the day. Along the way, learn the history and perspectives of this complex country that has undergone so much change in the past century. Our journey culminates in Saigon, the country’s elegant and enterprising southern metropolis, a fitting location to celebrate and reflect on all we have seen.
Join us on this 14-day cycling tour from the north to the south of Vietnam and take in all this country has to offer!
Bicycle tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort, Sleeper Train, Tent
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Hanoi, Nha Trang, Phan Rang, Mui
Hanoi, Nha Trang, Phan Rang, Mui Ne, Ho Chi Minh City, Ninh Binh, Hue, Hoi An, Quy Nhon, Tuy Hòa
Vietnam’s remote north-eastern frontier holds a special mystique, even for seasoned Vietnamese travelers. There is a reverence for the vast scale of its dense jungles, jagged mountain ranges, clear streams and deep canyons; for the sheer number of indigenous ethnic groups, each with distinct languages and customs, different from one valley to the next; and for the region's formative role in the Vietnamese identity from ancient times until the present. This is also the heartland of Vietnamese independence: it was in the gorges and caverns of the North-East that the national hero, Ho Chi Minh, trained and built up his nascent guerilla army to prevail first against the occupying French, then eventually against the Americans and South Vietnamese. Today, this is a peaceful and welcoming land, with smiles aplenty from local denizens as we roll through their small villages and farms. Every bend in the road brings sights and encounters that will stay with us as we pedal our way across this formidable territory.
We first meet in Hanoi, then depart for a day of lakeside riding to Vu Linh. From here, the spectacular territory and tougher cycling begin, as we make our way to Hoang Su Phi and Quan Ba. Stunning geological formations and an array of cultural stops await as we enter the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark. We then enter Cao Bang Province, passing over the famous Ma Pi Leng Pass to arrive in Bao Lac. Approach the Chinese border on remote roads as you make your way deeper into the province, with views of rice terraces and dazzling mountain ranges stretching as far as the eye can see. The Pac Bo caves, favoured hiding spot of Ho Chi Minh, make for an evocative stop before we continue on roads flanked by stilted houses and water buffalo. The towering cascades of Ban Gioc Waterfall greet us in the soft morning light before we ride through charming stone villages and arrive in lively Cao Bang City for a night. Leave town on a sustained climb surrounded by gorgeous countryside, with an equally long downhill as we arrive at serene Ba Be Lake, a favourite natural sanctuary. Our last ride takes us southward out of the mountains towards Bac Kan, and we then return to Hanoi, emerging from this thrilling whirl through the realms of the north!
Join us as we venture to the heights of Vietnam’s frontier on this unforgettable 12-day road cycling journey!
Bicycle tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Hanoi, Ba Be National Park, Thac
Hanoi, Ba Be National Park, Thac Ba, Hoang Su Phi, Nam Dam, Pho Bang, Meo Vac, Me Pja, Ban Gioc, Cao Bang
I just finished a month long of travelling with Intro Travel Thailand and Vietnam legs.
I really enjoyed the tours and the activities that were offered as well as the opportunity to meet some amazing people (both guests and group leaders) from all walks of life and around the world. In short, this experience was life-altering and has shaped my cultural understanding of Thailand and Vietnam as a whole.
In particular, I want to give a shoutout to my Vietnam group leader, Danny. He was truly amazing and catered to all your needs as a friend first then a group leader after, AND I WAS NEEDY ‚.
P.S, Rhi (My group leader from Thailand) was amazing too when I was feeling homesick and down!
CruiseCooking classes
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Bungalow, Home-stay, Hotel
Age Range
18-55 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Bangkok, Phi Phi Islands, Phuket
Bangkok, Phi Phi Islands, Phuket, Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City, Khao Sok National Park, Koh Phangan
Join us on a cycling adventure through Vietnam, exploring the country on two wheels. Savour the rich flavours of Vietnamese cuisine, perfect for fuelling our adventures. Visit the vibrant cities of Saigon, Hoi An, Hue, and Hanoi, and cap off the trip with an unforgettable overnight cruise in the breathtaking La Han Bay.
Hoi An - Explore this ancient trading port with historic charm and lantern lit-streets
Cycle Vietnam - Discover Vietnam's stunning and lush scenery on varied coastal and inland rides
Lan Ha Bay Cruise - through turquoise waters and past towering limestone cliffs in the unspoiled part of Halong Bay
Upgraded Range - Immerse yourself in beautiful Vietnam with our hand-picked selection of Premium hotels
City sightseeingBicycle tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hue, Ha
Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hue, Ha Noi, Mui Ne, Phan Rang, Nha Trang, Green Oasis Dam Bay, Quy Nhon, Hoi An
From the lofty peaks of the Truong Son Mountains to the sandy shores of the Gulf of Tonkin, this is a Vietnamese road cycling dream come true. Test your endurance over 1,000 kilometers of diverse terrain, uncovering vestiges of former empires, the lingering legacies of the Vietnam-America War, striking limestone formations, shimmering lagoons, and vibrant cultures. We go local in Vietnam’s further-flung regions and enjoy elevated comfort near some of the country’s most treasured UNESCO World Heritage Sites!
Starting with a transfer out of Vietnam’s bustling capital city, Hanoi, the tour is divided into 4 main stages:
Stage 1: Valleys of the North. We kick things off with a climb over the Thung Khe Pass and descend into the Mai Chau Valley, known for its lush rice paddies and charming ethnic stilt house villages. We then follow the course of the Song Ma River into the rolling hills of Thanh Hoa Province.
Stage 2: The Ho Chi Minh Highway. Over three days, we hit the pavement of this legendary highland highway. Constructed atop the trails of the historic Ho Chi Minh Trail, the smooth tarmac allows for a fast-paced journey past jungle-clad mountains and expansive farmlands.
Stage 3: Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park. We have a rest day to explore some of the world's most visually striking caves, underground rivers, and limestone formations.
Stage 4: The Central Coast. Over four days, we traverse coastal villages, scenic shorelines, and tranquil lagoons. In Vinh Moc, we visit a fascinating network of war-era tunnels; in Hue, we explore the glittering Imperial Citadel; and in Lang Co, we relax by the beach. After a winding climb up and down the iconic Hai Van Pass, the tour ends in Hoi An, renowned for its Old World charm.
Join us on this leg-testing deep-dive into the heart of Vietnam by road bike! Check out our blog for an insider look into this tour.
Bicycle tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Hanoi, Hoi An, Hue, Mai Chau, Th
Hanoi, Hoi An, Hue, Mai Chau, Thai Hoa, Pho Chau, Phong NHA, Vinh Moc
Great guide and driver. Excellent option for a family with kids. Great way to discover the area and local food. Very nice accommodation. Especially the second night.
Bicycle tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Book this tour and enjoy an incredible cruising experience in Vietnam. Start your journey from Hanoi, where you will be picked up by our representative and transferred to La Pinta Cruise. Board the cruise and sail past the islets Da Chong, Con Vit and Gia Luan.
Cruise to Lan Ha Bay, whose limestone outcroppings and emerald waters are equally as impressive as that of the Ha Long bay but often sees less boats and travellers as compared with its more popular twin. The bay is also known for its beautiful beaches and mysterious caves.
Stop at Vung Tra Bau. Choose between either kayaking or swimming in its emerald waters before heading to the world-famous Ha Long Bay. See its towering limestone islands, called karst, which are covered with rainforests. Enjoy the beauty of its emerald waters and see various islets around it.
Explore the traditional fishing village of Viet Hai, located in the middle of a jungle, on a bicycle (you will travel around 5km on your bike). Observe the life of the people and the natural beauty of the place.
Observe local fishermen netting their catch. Learn to prepare well-known Vietnamese cuisine during this trip. Fish squids in calm waters in the evening. This cruise has been designed with your utmost comfort and entertainment in mind. Admire panoramic views of the bay and the surrounding areas from the cruise. Give us the opportunity to serve you and we will ensure that you will never forget your La Pinta memories.
A couple of hours south of Bangkok lies a fertile lowland with a network of canals, orchards and a huge forest reserve – a tranquil land and lifestyle that is an important facet of Thailand that most visitors never see.
We start by visiting the Damnoen Saduak floating market, a canal packed with small boats selling just about everything before taking a long tail boat ride through the network of canals. We begin our bike ride, along country roads, cycling through orchards and temples, finishing at a canalside hotel.
Day two takes in traffic-free roads and trails with beautiful scenery, entering Kaeng Krachan national park, cycling over a large dam and alongside reservoir, stopping at a secluded hotel in the hills.
On day three we cycle through fishing villages with schools and temples, and along the coast for excellent views of the sea.
Bicycle tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
This 3-day, trekking and cycling adventure will take you through the incredible scenery of Ba Be National Park in the northeast of Vietnam. You have almost three days packed full of adventure and cultural activities including jungle trekking, visiting ethnic villages, taking a boat cruise and biking around the national park. You will spend two nights in a local homestay in a Tay village which will give you the chance to meet the local people and experience their way of life.
Immerse yourself in North Vietnam’s rich culture and natural beauty on a four day cycling trip that takes you deep into heart of this mystical region. Pedal through emerald-green rice paddies and past ancient, mountaintop pagodas. Learn the rhythms of local life and enjoy a rural homestay, making new friends and forging lifelong memories.