Ho Chi Minh to Angkor Wat Cycle Tour with 5 Reviews by World Expeditions

12 daysDuration

Small Group TourUsually 8-12 participants, maximum 18 travelers

16 peopleMaximum group size

18 - 99 yearsAge range for participants

EnglishGuide language

Moderate

Involves sustained activity requiring a reasonable level of fitness and endurance.

Starts

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Ends

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Highlights

Discover the joy of travelling by bike, take in daily life along the backroads with full vehicle support so you can ride at your own pace

Explore the temples of Angkor by bike, following shaded forest trails to hidden ruins and watching sunrise spill across the towers of Angkor Wat

Cross the Vietnam - Cambodia border by riverboat, through a tranquil maze of waterways dotted with floating villages and fishing boats

Gain perspective on history with guided visits to the Cu Chi Tunnels and Phnom Penh’s moving memorial sites

Itinerary

Cycling enthusiasts and adventure-seekers—pedal your way from the energetic streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the mystical temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia on the "Ho Chi Minh to Angkor Wat Cycle." This 12-day guided bicycle tour is ideal for those who enjoy active travel with a cultural twist, offering a unique perspective on Southeast Asia’s landscapes and lifestyle.

The journey leads you from bustling city avenues to tranquil rural backroads, through the Mekong Delta’s floating markets and Khmer villages, and across the border to the lively capital of Phnom Penh. As you ride toward Siem Reap, you’ll discover the awe-inspiring Angkor temple complex by bike and witness the vibrant life on the Tonle Sap lake.

A major highlight of this trip package is its combination of diverse scenery, immersive local encounters, and the freedom of cycling—complete with strong support and backup vehicles, making it accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of riders.

day 1 - Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City

Xin chao! Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City.

Upon your arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, if you are arriving on day 1, you will be warmly greeted by your driver and transferred to your hotel. Take some time to settle in and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Vietnam's largest city.

Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is the dynamic economic heart of the country, blending modernity with rich cultural heritage. As you explore, you’ll discover a captivating mix of ancient traditions and contemporary energy that will quickly dispel any lingering jetlag.

In the late afternoon, join your guide in the hotel lobby for a trip briefing, followed by a welcome dinner to start your adventure.

Overnight: Queen Ann Hotel or similar

Meals:Dinner

day 2 - Cu Chi Tunnels & City Tour (cycle approx. 1-2 hours)

This morning, you’ll head out on a short bus ride to Hoc Mon town, where you’ll hop on your bike and cycle through scenic rice paddies and rubber plantations en route to the famous Cu Chi Tunnels. This fascinating network of underground passages and chambers served as the Viet Cong’s base and living quarters during the Vietnam War. You’ll learn about life underground and even have the chance to explore some of the tunnels on foot.

After a local lunch, you’ll return to Ho Chi Minh City for an afternoon of sightseeing. Your first stop is the Reunification Palace, an iconic example of 1960s architecture and the site where the Vietnam War ended in 1975. From there, you’ll visit the Notre Dame Cathedral, a grand neo-Romanesque church, and the Saigon Post Office, a beautiful French colonial building.

To finish the day, you might like to visit the to Ben Thanh Market, a bustling hub filled with everything from fresh produce to souvenirs. Whether you’re shopping or just soaking up the atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to end an exciting day.

Cycling: (±) 25km/15mi, mostly flat, +30m/98ft, -31m/100ft

Driving: (±) 70km/43mi / 3hrs

Overnight: Queen Ann Hotel or similar

Meals:Breakfast and Lunch

day 3 - Cycle to Vinh Long (cycle approx. 4-5 hours)

Today, to avoid the busy city roads, you’ll start the morning with an approximate 2hr car transfer towards the Mekong Delta. Once at the starting point, you’ll hop on your bikes and pedal along the tranquil rural roads of this picturesque region. The Mekong Delta, known for its friendly locals, offers a unique glimpse into daily life centred around agriculture and traditional crafts.

After about 20km/13mi, you’ll take a break for a light picnic lunch at a charming garden café. In the afternoon, you’ll cycle south for around 40 km/25mi, crossing the mighty river from one island to another by ferry, before arriving at a local guesthouse where you’ll settle in for the night.

Cycling: (±) 60km/37mi, mostly flat, +16m/53ft, -20m/65ft

Driving: (±) 70km/43mi / 2hrs

Overnight: Vinh Long local guesthouse

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

day 4 - Cycle to Can Tho (cycle approx. 5-7 hours)

After breakfast, you’ll set off on your bikes, heading south to the heart of the Mekong Delta, in the Tam Binh region. Riding at a leisurely pace along quiet backroads, you’ll have the chance to soak up the serene surroundings, making stops along the way to sip tea with locals and enjoy some snacks. A traditional lunch will be served at a welcoming local's home, offering a deeper insight into their way of life.

At Tra On, you’ll board a boat for a relaxing 1.5-hour cruise along the Hau River, heading upstream to Can Tho, the largest city in the Mekong Delta. Upon arrival in Can Tho, you’ll transfer to your hotel for check-in and a chance to refresh. The rest of the day is yours to spend at leisure.

Please note: The boat from Tra On to Can Tho operates based on river water levels and may not be available daily. If the boat is not running, we will transfer by vehicle for approximately 40 kilometres to Can Tho.

Cycling: (±) 60km/37mi, mostly flat, +10m/39ft,-9m/29ft

Driving: (±) 0km or 40km/25mi depending on boat availability

Overnight: Iris Can Tho Hotel or similar

Meals:Breakfast and Lunch

day 5 - Cycle to Long Xuyen (cycle approx. 5-6 hours)

Rise early this morning to explore the Cai Rang floating market, a quintessential experience in the delta. After returning to the hotel for breakfast, you’ll ride along the scenic roads winding up the Hau River, heading northwest towards Long Xuyen—a vibrant market town known for its bustling trade in fish, rice, and cashew nuts.

Along the way, you’ll visit the Bang Lang Stork Garden, a 1.3-hectare bird sanctuary offering breathtaking views of thousands of resident storks and snowy egrets. From the tall viewing platform, you can watch these magnificent birds fill the branches. You'll end the day in Long Xuyen, settling into a comfortable and authentic local hotel for the night.

Cycling: (±) 60km/37mi mostly flat, mostly flat, +39m/128ft,-36m/118ft

Overnight: Hoa Binh Hotel or similar

Meals:Breakfast and Lunch

day 6 - Cycle to Chau Doc (cycle approx. 5-6 hours)

After breakfast, you will head 60 kilometres west by car to the starting point of today’s ride.

You will cycle 50 kilometres to Chau Doc, stopping at the Ba Chuc Memorial, a poignant reminder of the Khmer Rouge massacre in 1978. Continuing along the Cambodian border, you will arrive at Tra Su Cajuput Forest, where you’ll explore the stunning nature reserve and bird sanctuary.

On arrival in Chau Doc, you will check into your hotel and have time to freshen up. In the evening, you will enjoy a special farewell dinner with your Vietnamese tour leader, celebrating the end of your adventure in Vietnam.

Cycling: (±) 50km/31mi, +141m/462ft,-168m/551ft

Overnight: Hung Cuong Hotel or similar

Meals:Breakfast and Lunch

day 7 - Boat to Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Today, you’ll take a break from cycling and catch the early morning boat across the Vinh Xuong/Kaam Samnor border into Cambodia, arriving in its bustling capital, Phnom Penh. Please note that Cambodian e-visas are not accepted at this crossing, so the group will use the straightforward visa-on-arrival service.

In the 1950s and 60s, Phnom Penh was known as the ‘Pearl of Asia,’ inspiring cities like Singapore with its innovative urban planning and architecture. Despite the setbacks of war and revolution, it’s now reclaiming its status as one of Southeast Asia’s thriving cities, with a vibrant cafe culture, lively bars, and an exceptional food scene. The city offers a mix of experiences, from the inspiring National Museum to the sobering Khmer Rouge sites, reflecting both the highs and lows of Cambodia’s history.

After checking into your comfortable city-centre accommodation, you’ll head out for a tuk-tuk tour and your first taste of Khmer cuisine. You’ll visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a former high school that was repurposed as Security Prison 21 (S-21) by the Khmer Rouge from 1975 to 1979. Then, explore the Royal Palace, one of Phnom Penh’s highlights, with its striking Silver Pagoda, built in 1962, renowned for its silver-tiled floor and impressive collection of Buddha statues made from precious metals and gems.

We then return to the hotel onboard our tuk-tuks, and you’ll have the evening at leisure.

Important Note: To enter the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, visitors must wear appropriate attire—trousers or shorts covering the knees and tops covering the shoulders. Entry may be denied for wearing revealing clothing.

Overnight: Ohana Hotel or similar

Boat: (±) 4.5hrs

Meals:Breakfast and Lunch

day 8 - To Siem Reap (cycle approx. 1-2 hours)

After breakfast, you’ll travel by private bus north to Siem Reap, passing through picturesque countryside. Along the way, you’ll stop at Sambor Prei Kuk, a stunning collection of 7th-century temple ruins that once served as the capital of the pre-Angkorian Chenla Kingdom.

Here, you’ll enjoy a home-cooked lunch before hopping on simple local bicycles for a leisurely ride around the village and temple ruins. Afterwards, you’ll continue your journey to Siem Reap, arriving by late afternoon.

The evening is yours to explore at your own pace—you might choose to wander through the bustling, narrow lanes of the old town and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.

Drive: (±) 6hrs / 370km/230mi

Cycling (simple local bicycles): (±) 15km/9mi

Overnight: Baitong Heritage Hotel or similar

Meals:Breakfast and Lunch

day 9 - Cycle the Temples of Angkor (cycle approx. 4-5 hours)

The Angkor temples are the undeniable highlight of any visit to Cambodia, and today you’ll have a full day to explore the iconic Angkor Archaeological Park by bike—a fantastic way to experience this breathtaking site.

To beat the crowds, you’ll start early with a short car transfer to the outskirts of the complex, where you’ll hop onto a mountain bike for an extraordinary 40-kilometre ride. This route will take you along the backroads of the park, visiting three of the most significant sites:

Bayon: The crown jewel of Angkor Thom, this 12th-century masterpiece is known for its stunning bas-reliefs and 54 towers adorned with 216 giant faces.

Ta Prohm: A photographer’s dream, this temple has been left in much the same condition as when it was rediscovered, with massive trees intertwined with its ruins, creating an atmospheric and hauntingly beautiful scene.

Angkor Wat: The ultimate expression of Khmer architecture, Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world and has captivated visitors for centuries.

You’ll also have the chance to cycle along the top of Angkor Thom’s ancient city walls, stopping for photos and learning more about these monumental structures from your guide. As you navigate single trails through the dense forest, you might even spot some hidden temples lost among the trees. Lunch will be served in a lovely outdoor setting within the park.

This evening, you’re in for a special treat with a performance by Phare, The Cambodian Circus. Known for their unique blend of theatre, music, and acrobatics, Phare tells captivating stories that reflect both traditional folklore and modern Cambodian life. This non-profit organisation provides training in the performing arts to disadvantaged youth and is renowned on the international stage.

Important Note: When visiting the temples of Angkor, please ensure you wear appropriate attire—bottoms covering the knees and tops covering the shoulders—as these are sacred sites. Visitors not dressed appropriately may be denied entry.

Cycling: (±) 40km/25mi

Driving: (±) 30km/19mi

Overnight: Baitong Heritage Hotel or similar

Meals:Breakfast and Lunch

day 10 - Cycle the Roluos group and the lost Beng Mealea temple (cycle approx. 5-7 hours)

After an early breakfast, you will set off from the hotel, cycling to the Roluos Group—a fascinating collection of temples that once formed Hariharalaya, the first capital of the Angkor-era Khmer Empire. Dating back to the late ninth century, these monuments mark the beginning of the ‘classic period’ of Khmer architecture.

You will then continue your ride along scenic backroads, passing through picturesque Khmer villages and countryside on your way to Beng Melea. This sprawling jungle temple, covering over one square kilometre, is enveloped in dense vegetation and remains relatively untouched by tourism. With trees growing through its ancient ruins, it offers a unique ‘lost temple’ atmosphere, reminiscent of Ta Prohm but without the crowds—perfect for those iconic ‘tree in temple’ photos.

After exploring, you will enjoy a traditional Khmer lunch at a local restaurant. You will then transfer back to Siem Reap by support vehicle, with the remainder of the day free for you to relax and explore at your leisure.

Cycling: (±) 70km/43mi

Driving: (±) 70km/43mi

Overnight: Baitong Heritage Hotel or similar

Meals:Breakfast and Lunch

day 11 - Cycle to Kompong Kleang floating village (cycle approx. 4-5 hours)

After breakfast, you will ride toward the vast wetlands on the edge of Asia's largest freshwater lake, Tonle Sap. You will ride mainly on backroads, greeted by friendly locals waving and smiling. Along the way, you’ll get a glimpse of Cambodia’s rural culture and traditional family life. he lake's size and depth increases with the annual monsoon rains by as much as six times and local people have found ingenious ways to live with the ever changing water world. Kampong Kleang is a stilted village settlement of over 20,000 people where structures tower up to ten metres above the water. Here you can learn about the lives of the subsistence fishing families who call this water world home. In the afternoon, you will return to your hotel in Siem Reap by support vehicle. This evening, enjoy dinner with a traditional Apsara dance performance.

Note: From March to August/September water levels of the Tonle Sap Lake can reduce dramatically and may result in an amended itinerary.

Cycling: (±) 60km/37mi

Driving: (±) 60km/37mi

Overnight: Baitong Heritage Hotel or similar

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

day 12 - In Siem Reap, trip concludes

The morning is free at leisure in Siem Reap until the airport transfer for your outbound flight. Trip concludes.

Meals:Breakfast

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What's Included

Meals

11 breakfasts, 10 lunches and 3 dinners

Transport

Support vehicle while cycling

Guide

Expert bilingual guide

Others

Comfortable well located hotelsMountain bike rental (e bike available - supplement applies)Entrance feesAirport transfers on day 1 & day 12Sightseeing as listed in itineraryMedical kit

What's Excluded

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