So, you’ve Googled like crazy—“best routes for cycling tours in Vietnam,” “what to pack,” “when to go?, “what to wear for cycling tours?” Sounds familiar, right? No worries, we’ve all been there! The internet gives you the basics: maps, gear lists, maybe even a weather forecast. But if you’re planning a cycling tour in Vietnam, there’s a whole other layer of insight that search engines just can’t quite capture.
In this blog, we’ll take you behind the scenes of how to plan cycling tours in Vietnam—from navigating unpredictable road conditions to understanding the local rhythm and uncovering insights you won’t find online. If you’re ready to dive into the real pedalling adventure, come with us to discover!
Why choose cycling tours in Vietnam?
Let’s be honest—there’s no better way to explore the S-shaped country than on two wheels. Although public transportation such as buses, taxis, or ride-hailing apps, is still the primary way to get around while travelling, cycling tours in Vietnam are becoming increasingly popular as more travellers lean towards eco-friendly tourism. As you’ve already known, bikes don’t pollute the air or cause too much traffic noise and leave a much lighter footprint compared to other types of transportation.
In the past, travellers often preferred to visit as many places as possible at once, making the most of their limited vacation time. But nowadays, tourists gravitate towards a less-hurried, more relaxed way of exploring the city. One popular option gaining traction is cycling tours in Vietnam, which allow visitors to wander through streets and alleys slowly, pause for a few seconds to snap photos as a keepsake, or sip on a refreshing glass of sugarcane juice after a long, exhausting bike ride. It’s no surprise that cycling tours in Vietnam have become a favorite among those seeking a deeper, more immersive travel experience.
Furthermore, cycling tours in Vietnam will allow you to engage with the local communities entirely. When you’re on a bike, people are more likely to chat, welcome you, or invite you in for a cup of tea. Honestly, that slower pace is like an open gate, giving you the chance to form a harmonious relationship with locals, ask questions, and have those small, heartwarming moments that never happen on fast-paced tours.
Planning the ride: Choosing the right cycling tour in Vietnam
When it comes to cycling tours in Vietnam, there is no “one-size-fits-all” approach. With so many options, you should know what kind of tour fits your style, energy level, and travel goals. From guided adventures to solo rides in the city, here’s a simple guide to the different types of awaited cycling tours in Vietnam.
Types of cycling tours in Vietnam
Guided vs self-guided tours
Guided tours are the perfect option if you prefer having everything planned out for you when travelling. Registering for guided tours will save lots of time when preparing the trip planner since local guides know all the best spots, share valuable tips and interesting local stories, and ensure your crew doesn’t miss hidden gems. Plus, it’s a fantastic way for tourists to learn more about Vietnam’s culture and history along the way.
At Jackfruit Adventure, we specialise in crafting personalised, tourist-centred cycling tours that exceed customers’ expectations. Our Tour De Saigon trip is perfect for any first-timers, as our crew will bring you a stunning glimpse of the city, from iconic landmarks to charming hidden alleys. For tourists looking to see a different side of the city, our Saigon Off the Beaten Path tour is all about exploring hidden neighbourhoods, local markets, and the kinds of places even some locals haven’t discovered.
On the flip side, if you’re confident in exploring the country on your own and want to take complete control of your itinerary, self-guided cycling tours in Vietnam are the perfect solution. You’ll get a map, GPS tracking devices, a compass, and the freedom to cycle at your own pace. These cycling tours in Vietnam are ideal for travellers who don’t mind a tight schedule or those who genuinely enjoy the thrill of solo adventures.
Day tour vs multi-day adventures
The duration of your trip, whether short or long, will depend on your time, estimated budget, and the number of places you hope to visit. If you have limited travel time and just want to explore well-known local spots, day tours are the best option. They are ideal for short-time travellers who prefer spending time enjoying the captivating landscape.
On the other hand, extended cycling tours in Ho Chi Minh City are the perfect option for those who are up for a deeper dive into unveiling the rustic side of the city. On this trip, travellers will freely cycle through hidden alleyways in Ho Chi Minh City, experiencing overnight stays with the locals, tasting all the best Vietnamese street food, buying souvenirs at local stores, and waking up early to catch the sunrise at the park.
City rides vs country routes
When it comes to cycling tours in Vietnam, choosing between city rides and countryside routes really depends on the kind of experience you’re fond of.
Cycling tours in Vietnam are an excellent choice for travellers who desire to join community activities, immerse themselves deeply in local culture, or enjoy the bustling atmosphere of the fast-paced city. In cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh, cycling might sound intimidating at first, but once you’re on a cycling tour, you quickly get into the rhythm.
On city rides, you’ll ride past local fresh markets, ancient temples, alley cafés, and colonial-architecture buildings. Some cycling tours in Vietnam even include food stops, so you can park your bike and grab a Banh Mi or slurp a hot bowl of Pho in a hidden alley.
Now, if you’re looking for something slower and more peaceful, rural routes are where Vietnam really shines. These countryside tours take you away from the city’s heavy traffic and lead you to some picture-perfect landscapes, such as exuberant rice fields, tranquil coconut villages, transparent lotus ponds, and serene backroads. In places like the Mekong Delta or Hue province, you’ll glide along flat paths, cross small wooden bridges, and maybe even catch a boat ride during the tour. Plus, you can stop to chat with locals, visit some workshops, or watch farmers work on the rice paddies. It’s an incredibly immersive way to see the real Vietnam!
City Ride Routes
Hanoi Old Quarter & West Lake Loop
- Distance: ~15–20 km
- Highlights: French colonial buildings, hidden cafés, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, serene views around West Lake.
- Why you should go: The city is filled with plenty of cultural and food stops.
Ho Chi Minh City Urban Explorer
- Distance: ~10–15 km
- Highlights: Ben Thanh Market, Chinatown (Cholon), Jade Emperor Pagoda, street food tasting.
- Why you should go: Great for exploring bustling districts and local life, guided tours often include historical storytelling.
Countryside Cycling Routes
Hoi An to Tra Que Vegetable Village & An Bang Beach
- Distance: ~10–20 km
- Highlights: Lush rice fields, organic herb gardens, local farms, beachside houses.
- Why you should go: Villages are peaceful and the locals are family-friendly, with chances to try traditional farming or cooking classes.
Mekong Delta Loop (Ben Tre/Cai Be)
- Distance: ~30–50 km (can be customised)
- Highlights: Coconut plantations, rural markets, ferry crossings, and river canals.
- Why you should go: Flat terrain, water coconut forests, and a real taste of southern Vietnam’s rural charm.
Hue to Thanh Toan Village
- Distance: ~15–25 km
- Highlights: Countryside temples, tiled bridge, local museums, paddy fields.
- Why you should go: A beautiful mix of imperial history and tranquil farming villages.
For those who enjoy the adrenaline rush
If your idea of fun includes steep climbs, tight curves, and jaw-dropping views, then the highland cycling tours in Vietnam should be on your checklist. The Northern part of Vietnam is famous for its mountainous terrain, rugged mountains, rich culture, and stunning landscapes that offer plenty of scenic cycling routes. This is where the real adventure kicks in!
Northern regions like Sapa, Mai Chau, and Ha Giang offer steep climbs, sweeping valleys, and cool mountain air. To pedal through winding mountain passes, cross misty valleys, and encounter roads that seem to defy gravity, you must be in excellent physical condition and have strong stamina.
Cycling in the Northern mountainous areas of Vietnam, you can feel the air is cooler, the roads are quieter, and the experience is worth trying. Normally, mountain cycling tours of Vietnam are called “multi-day tours”, involving mountain camping or stays in ethnic minority villages, where you’ll share meals, local stories, and get a real sense of mountain life. It may be an arduous cycling journey, but the epic views and the proud feeling of accomplishment make every drop of sweat worth it.
Mountain & Adventure Cycling Routes
Sapa to Lao Cai via Muong Hoa Valley
- Distance: ~30–50 km (some steep sections)
- Highlights: Terraced rice fields, ethnic minority villages, and misty mountain views.
- Why you should go: Signature northern Vietnam scenery with both cultural and natural depth. It is best for intermediate to advanced cyclists.
Ha Giang Loop
- Distance: ~300–400km total
- Highlights: Ma Pi Leng Pass, Dong Van Karst Plateau, Hmong villages, epic mountain views.
- Why you should go: One of Vietnam’s most legendary motorbike loops—also doable by bike if you’re up for a serious challenge. Best with a support vehicle.
Mai Chau to Pu Luong Nature Reserve
- Distance: ~40–80 km, depending on route
- Highlights: Limestone valleys, stilt house villages, bamboo forests, waterfalls.
- Why you should go: Less touristy than Sapa, with great trails and homestays. Excellent for a 2–3 day countryside-meets-mountain ride.
Best seasons for cycling tours in Vietnam
Vietnam’s diverse geography means the weather varies greatly depending on where and when you go. Therefore, if you’re interested in participating in cycling tours in Vietnam, the best time to go is between October and April. This is when most Southeast countries, especially Vietnam, have cooler temperatures, less rain and clearer skies. Also, this is perfect for cycling tours in Vietnam in bustling cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, as well as scenic regions like Hoi An and the Mekong Delta.
However, if you’re craving lush green landscapes and enjoying getting drenched under the rain, the wet season from May to September can offer a unique, vibrant backdrop for your journey. Just remember to bring your own rain gear! No matter when you choose to ride, cycling tours in Vietnam are all about embracing the journey and the unexpected, so get ready to pedal through some unforgettable seasons.
Planning your cycling expenses
Regarding cycling tours in Vietnam, you don’t have to worry much about budget planning for the two-wheeled adventure. That said, it’s always smart to plan your budget, so as to avoid unexpected situations. Bear in mind that prices can vary depending on your tour style. For instance, a simple half-day guided city tour may cost around $20–$35, including a bike, a helmet, and sometimes even snacks or a local guide.
On the other hand, if you’re going for a multi-day countryside or mountain ride, you need to prepare around $150 to $500 or more, depending on the route, accommodations, and whether meals and support vehicles are included. Don’t forget to pay for extras like travel insurance (especially if you’re heading into remote areas), tips for your helpful local guides, and maybe even a fairly significant cost if you want to upgrade your bike for the trip.
Tips for a smooth ride (what to pack and wear)
If you’re planning to join one of the many cycling tours in Vietnam, packing smart is the secret to a smooth and comfortable ride. Vietnam’s climate can be pretty erratic, and depending on the place and time you’re cycling, it may turn humid, sunny, or surprisingly cold, so it’s wise to dress in layers.
The best outfit for tourists joining cycling tours in Vietnam is a quick-dry T-shirt or jersey with padded cycling shorts for maximum comfort while on longer rides. Also, a lightweight jacket or windbreaker will come in handy in the early mornings or when you’re heading into the hills. The most important thing when cycling in Vietnam is not skipping essentials, such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and a stable helmet.
Another thing that you can bring is a small backpack or a pouch that helps carry your water bottle, a few snacks, your phone, and maybe even a quick-dry towel if you’re prone to breaking a sweat. Make sure to wear sturdy, firm pairs of sneakers or cycling shoes, which are way better than sandals—you’ll thank yourself later. Finally, you should consider packing a basic first-aid kit, insect repellent, and a portable power bank. With the right gear, you’ll be free to fully enjoy the adventure that cycling tours in Vietnam have to offer, minus the sore spots and sunburn.
Cost-saving hacks for your cycling tours in Vietnam
Vietnam is a budget-friendly destination, but if you’re looking to get even more bang for your buck on your cycling adventure, here are some clever, practical ways to save money without ruining the experience:
Book directly with local tour operators
When you book directly with local tour operators in Vietnam, you often get better prices than booking through big travel agencies or third-party websites. Typically, local operators have insider knowledge of the best routes and hidden gems, and the local guides can tailor your cycling tours in Vietnam to match your interests and estimated budget.
When booking your cycling tours in Vietnam, I always recommend going directly through local operators like us at Jackfruit Adventure. Our crew knows the city inside out and can tailor your ride exactly how you want it, whether you wish to explore hidden alleyways in Ho Chi Minh City, the best street food stops, or a quiet riverside route away from the crowds. Also, we keep tourist groups small so everyone gets attention and an opportunity to connect with local life.
Consider group travelling
Group travel is a win-win for your wallet and your vibe. When you join a group or travel with friends, you can split costs on transport to the start of your cycling routes, local guides, and even meals. Many local tour operators offer discounts for groups or have special packages for bigger parties on cycling tours in Vietnam.
Additionally, sharing stories and experiences with fellow riders you meet along the way is way more fun. Sometimes group rides can open up access to places or activities unavailable to solo travellers.
Choose shared accommodations
The third tip for saving money on cycling tours in Vietnam is to stay in shared accommodations. Vietnam has a wide variety of affordable guesthouses, hostels, and homestays that offer tourists clean, comfy places to rest. These shared accommodations often come with basic kitchen appliances, so you can save even more by preparing simple meals.
Moreover, staying in local homestays gives you a more genuine insight into locals’ daily lives. Plus, they always freely share insider tips on cycling routes and local eateries that guidebooks don’t mention. Therefore, it’s a win for your cultural experience!
Avoid peak seasons
The fourth solution for a more cost-effective trip is to avoid peak seasons. Peak travel seasons like Tet Holidays (Vietnamese Lunar New Year), summer holidays, and major festivals mean higher prices on everything from tours to hotels. Try travelling between March and May or September and November. During these times, you’ll find fewer tourists, friendlier guides with more availability, and better deals overall. Plus, quieter roads mean safer rides and more peaceful stops.
Bring your own gear and equipment
If possible, when going on cycling tours in Vietnam, you should bring your own cycling essentials like helmets, gloves, padded shorts, or even your bike. Here’s a bitter truth: Renting bike gear and equipment daily can add up quickly, especially when you’re on a multi-day tour.
Having your gear also means you’ll be more comfortable and less likely to deal with untrustworthy rentals. Also, don’t forget small but valuable items like a map, first-aid kit, repair kit, and reusable water bottle—these save you money and hassle on the road.
Negotiate politely with sellers
Bargaining is common when you go on cycling tours in Vietnam, especially at hidden markets and local shops where you might want to grab snacks, souvenirs, or even bike repairs. It’s always good to start with a friendly smile and say in a respectful tone—it’s all about forming a nice rapport with the locals.
Furthermore, you should learn how things cost by looking up the general price online, then offer a fair price but not too lowball. You’ll often find sellers happy to give a discount if you ask nicely, especially when you’re buying multiple items or services.
Come pedal with us in Saigon and experience what Google can’t show you!
While Google can give you a map and some informative advice, the real magic of cycling tours in Vietnam lies in what you can’t search for, from the friendly smiles of the locals, delicious Vietnamese street food, and little detours that turn into stories. If you’re ready to move beyond the guidebooks, experience Vietnam with your eyes (and slightly sore legs). Join us for a cycling tour in Ho Chi Minh City and see the city the way locals do—up close, on two wheels, and at your own pace.
If you’re looking to experience that magic up close, ride with us in Saigon. At Jackfruit Adventure, our cycling tours in Ho Chi Minh City are built for curious souls who want more than sightseeing. It’s not just a ride; it’s a real journey through Vietnamese flavour, culture, and rhythm. So, are you ready to join us? Let’s go!
