Cycling from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City is Intrepid’s best-selling cycling tour anywhere in the world. There’s a reason for this: it’s awesome.
Back in 2002, I cycled from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. It was amazing and fuelled my passion for exploring the world by bike. That’s because a cycling tour spent riding from north to south through Vietnam is simply the best way to see the country. You get away from the touristy areas and you’re going at the right speed to meet people, take in the landscapes and experience the contrast between the hectic urbanised cities and the tranquility of the countryside.
Since it’s been “a few years” since I last rode this route, in this article, I had the pleasure of working with Intrepid to get the lowdown on the route. Intrepid’s passion for mixing culture, cuisine and cycling is very much aligned with my own!
Intrepid connected me with their guide, Tri Nguyen, who I’ve interviewed for this article. Tri says “I come from Ho Chi Minh City (AKA Saigon) in Vietnam and have been guiding for Intrepid since 2013. This is my favourite Vietnam cycling tour and our guests love it. You’ll ride through busy cities, peaceful countryside, and amazing coastal roads, soaking up Vietnam’s rich culture. You can meet locals, enjoy the flavours of our cuisine (try the Bánh mì!), and explore ancient sites like Hué. Off the bike, snorkel in the turquoise waters near Nha Trang, relax on palm-fringed beaches, and experience traditional village life at a homestay. Come and cycle in Vietnam with us!”
Read on and discover whether cycling Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City is for you?!
Always check current travel information and advice. For visitors from the UK, the UK government travel information pages are here.
Why is cycling Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City a must-do?
Cycling Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City is one of the most rewarding long-distance bike rides in the world. Depending on the route you take, and how much time you spend cycling v other transport (!), this epic journey takes you around 2,000 kilometres from the buzzing capital of Hanoi to the dynamic southern city of Ho Chi Minh City.
Cycling Vietnam north to south immerses you in an incredible mix of landscapes, from misty mountains and lush rice paddies in the north to pristine beaches and historic cities along the central coast.
You’ll experience Vietnam’s rich culture, stopping at fishing villages, ancient temples, and lively markets. Explore historical sites like the Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City, the Imperial Citadel of Hue, and the ancient pagodas in Hanoi. Whichever route you take, you’ll loosely follow Vietnam’s coastline via hamlets, countryside and sandy beaches, all entrenched with history.
During the Vietnam War, the country was divided between Hanoi in North Vietnam (Democratic Republic of Vietnam) and Saigon in South Vietnam (Republic of Vietnam) and their allies; travelling between the two represented a treacherous journey. Starting and finishing your ride in these famous cities is therefore special both from a symbolic and physical perspective. Today, Hanoi offers a more traditional, historical atmosphere with its Old Quarter and pagodas, while Ho Chi Minh City provides a modern, vibrant city experience with markets and skyscrapers.
Cycling Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City is a journey well-travelled by cyclists, making it a fantastic choice for both guided and self-guided cycling trips in Vietnam.
Please describe the different options for riding the route?
When cycling from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, there are three main route options you could consider:
1. Highway One – the classic (but chaotic) coastal route
The most well-known route follows Highway One, Vietnam’s main north-south artery. Covering around 1,600 kilometres, it passes through major cities such as Hue, Da Nang, and Nha Trang, offering stunning coastal views and historical landmarks. While this is the most direct route and it offers convenience, access to the coast and plenty of accommodation and food stops, traffic can be heavy and the surroundings are very built up and urban. In built up areas, you might well find the level of chaos and number of vehicles a bit terrifying.
2. Ho Chi Minh Road – a scenic and quiet alternative
For a more peaceful ride, the Ho Chi Minh Road runs parallel to Highway One but takes you through Vietnam’s remote mountains and national parks. This less-travelled route is a great option for those seeking memorable scenery, quiet roads, and authentic local experiences. It passes through regions like Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, home to the world’s largest caves, and the lush jungles of central Vietnam. However, services are more limited.
3. Mixed Route – combining coast and mountains
Many cyclists opt for a combination of Highway One and the Ho Chi Minh Road, taking advantage of both coastal and inland landscapes. For example, you can start on the Ho Chi Minh Road for the quiet, mountainous stretches, then switch to the coast around Da Nang or Nha Trang to enjoy beachside riding. This mix provides variety, avoiding the busiest sections.
4. Intrepid’s Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh cycling tour
Our Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City tour takes cyclists on the back roads that follow the coastal line. This lets our guests see the beauty of the country, but with low traffic.
The most important thing about our cycling trip in Vietnam is that we minimise time spent cycling on the main roads. There are a few small stretches where this can’t be avoided, like the Hai Van Pass, but most of the time we zigzag down the country, using a combination of mountain passes, coastal backroads, the historic Ho Chi Minh Road and national highways.
We have support vehicles, and so we’re able to adapt our route and don’t have to rigidly following a particular road or follow the most direct line between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. We don’t stick to just following the Ho Chi Minh Road for example, because there are more interesting and off the beaten path places to ride. We can use the buses to transfer guests through the boring or most difficult parts, which aids the overall experience.
We have been running Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City cycling tours for more than 20 years. Over that time, we have honed and perfected our route and we strongly believe that the route of our Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh cycling tour offers the best mix. We are able to share the local culture and the beauty of the landscapes, while experiencing the different varieties of road conditions. Our route gives cyclists the chance to test their riding skills as well as fulfilling their desire to be on the bike.

Banana grove bike ride (photo credit: Intrepid Travel)
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Check out Intrepid's Hanoi to HCMC cycling tours and discover the cycling trip of a lifetime!
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Tell us more about what you’ll see
The cycle from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City is beautiful. In our opinion, it’s the definitive route if you want a journey that balances off-the-grid exploration with visits to well-known attractions. Allow plenty of time to make sure you enjoy all the best sights!
- Scenic variety: From the best beaches in southern and central Vietnam, to remote valleys in the Central Highlands, limestone forests along the Western Ho Chi Minh Road, and rivers that stretch from source to mouth.
- Hai Van Mountain Pass: Ride the Hai Van Mountain Pass – the road winds through the Truong Son Mountain Range, with gorgeous views across the Bay of Danang to the south. It is 500 m above sea level with gradients around 5 to 10 percent. It also boasts some of the smoothest asphalt in Vietnam; perfect for the descent!
- Quy Nhon and Nha Trang: Encounter stunning beaches along National Route 19C on day 10.
- Classic tourist highlights: Major towns and hotspots such as Nha Trang, Dalat, Hoi An, Phong Nha Caves, and Ninh Binh are all woven into the route.
There’s more information on all of these below.

Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris Square, Ho Chi Minh City (photo credit: Intrepid Travel)
What are the highlights of the route (and why)?
Mai Chau Valley
We tour goes through the stunning Mai Chau Valley, home to the Thai ethnic minority. We stay overnight in a traditional stilt house, offering a unique chance to experience local culture firsthand. Along the way, we ride past lush rice terraces and make plenty of stops to soak up the scenery and capture unforgettable photos. In the evening, we enjoy authentic local cuisine and get a glimpse into the traditional customs and daily life of the Thai people.
This is day three of Intrepid’s tour.
Lunch in Sa Huynh, Quang Ngai
We travel from Hoi An to Quy Nhon. On the way, we stop for lunch in a local house, offering a fantastic chance to enjoy authentic Vietnamese cuisine. It’s the perfect opportunity to taste some of the best local dishes, made with fresh ingredients and traditional flavours, right in the heart of the destination. It’s also an example of one of the places we visit that’s far from the “famous hotspots” and you have the chance to meet local people.
This is day nine of Intrepid’s tour.
Bidoup-Nui Ba Pass
We cycle from Nha Trang to Da Lat, heading up through the Bidoup-Nui Ba Pass into the cooler climate of the South-Central Highlands. It’s amazing to experience the changing of elevation gain from five meters to 1,600 metres above sea level.
This is day 12 of Intrepid’s tour.
Day by day cycling Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City
Note: Day 1 and day 15 are not cycling days.
Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi

Evening streets of Hanoi (photo credit: Intrepid Travel)
Day 2: Hanoi
Cycle around West Lake in Hanoi, test the bikes, and get a feel for Vietnam’s traffic
22km – 40m
In the morning, there’s time to explore the city; take a walk through the Old Quarter, a living museum where the famous ’36 Streets’ are packed with everything from souvenirs and silk clothing to jewellery, embroidered tablecloths, wood carvings, and lacquerware. It’s the perfect way to soak up the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
In the afternoon, you set off on a gentle ride around West Lake, passing lotus-filled lakes, grand colonial villas, and historic temples, including the Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest in Vietnam.
Day 3: Hanoi to Mai Chau
Cycling through the undulating landscape to stay in a stilt house in Mai Chau
57km – 410m

Group cycling by reservoir (photo credit: Intrepid Travel)
Take a bus to Hoa Binh, with a stop at Vun Art, a social enterprise run by people living with disabilities, specialising in craft products made from Van Phuc silk.
From Hoa Binh, you ride through ethnic Thai villages and lush paddy fields. Towering limestone peaks rise in the background, and you can take regular stops to admire the breathtaking views across the valleys. Arriving in Cao Phong, a short bus ride takes you to Man Duc for lunch, before continuing to the Da River Reservoir. The ride along the Da River is spectacular, with karst cliffs and peaceful rice fields lining the way.
You finish the day in Mai Chau, a stunning valley surrounded by green mountains and home to friendly hill tribe communities. Tonight, you stay in a traditional stilt-house homestay in Poom Coong village, where you can enjoy a home-cooked meal. There may even be a chance to try the locally brewed rice wine…
Day 4: Mai Chau to Ninh Binh
Cycle through limestone karst scenery to Ninh Binh city
49km – 195m

Ninh Binh rice fields (photo credit: Intrepid Travel)
Set off on a ride from Mai Chau to Mai Hai and on to Co Luong. The route winds through a blanket of rice paddies and you pass farmers working with buffalo. Today’s ride is all about breathtaking landscapes, with limestone mountains, peaceful waterways, and endless green fields creating a picture-perfect scene.
From Co Luong, it’s a bus on Ho Chi Minh Road, arriving in Ninh Binh, where there’s an optional 36-kilometre ride around the surrounding countryside. This is a fantastic chance to experience everyday rural life and soak up the beautiful scenery at a relaxed pace.
Day 5: Ninh Binh to Hue
Loop ride through karst scenery to Hoa Luto to visit the King temple – overnight train to Hue
52km – 195m
In the morning, you cycle from Ninh Binh to Tam Coc, taking in one of Vietnam’s most spectacular landscapes, towering limestone karst peaks rising over lush rice paddies. As the river winds through the fields, dotted with traditional boats, the peaceful atmosphere is truly unforgettable.
You continue to Hoa Lu, once the capital of Vietnam during the 10th-century Dinh Dynasty. The temples, restored in the 17th century, remain in remarkable condition, offering a glimpse into Vietnam’s imperial past.
After lunch at the Dinh or Le Temple, you take the bus back to the hotel. After an early dinner, there’s a transfer to Nam Dinh to catch the overnight train to Hue.
Day 6: Day in Hue
Cycle to see the citadel, Buddhist temple and royal tomb
16km – 12m

Hue cuisine (photo credit: Intrepid Travel)
Hue blends bustling streets with peaceful countryside that offers a glimpse into its royal past.
You cycle through rice fields and quiet backroads, stopping at some of Hue’s most remarkable sites – from ancient temples and pagodas to bunkers, tombs, and war-time ruins. A highlight of the day is a visit to the Imperial Citadel, home to the Forbidden Purple City. Although heavily damaged during the Vietnam War, it is slowly being restored
Hué is a great place to spend some time chilling out in a local café or restaurant. Many consider Hue’s cuisine the best in Vietnam, influenced by its imperial heritage (small, beautifully presented dishes) and Buddhist traditions, reflected in the city’s many vegetarian restaurants.
Day 7: Hue to Hoi An
Conquer Hai Van Pass for 10 km uphill 10% and 10km downhill
86km – 631m

Hoi An street with lanterns
Today you tackle the Hai Van Pass on the way to Hoi An. This stunning stretch of highway winds through the Truong Son Mountain Range, offering breathtaking views across Da Nang Bay. Sitting 500 metres above sea level, the pass has gradients of 5 to 10 percent, making it the “big climb” day of the tour.
Arriving in Hoi An, you step into a town straight out of the history books. The streets are lined with colourful lanterns, bustling markets, tailor shops, and centuries-old temples. Traditional wooden boats drift along the river, adding to the charm. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Hoi An has been beautifully restored, with much of the old town looking just as it did over a century ago.
Day 8: Hoi An
Walking tour of the ancient centre of Hoi An
No riding today

Hoi An V street (photo credit: Intrepid Travel)
This morning, there’s a leader-led walking tour through Hoi An, uncovering its rich history and Chinese influence. As you wander through the ancient city, past pagodas and assembly halls, we step back in time, visiting a historic trader’s house, the Japanese Covered Bridge, a Chinese assembly hall, and a local museum.
The afternoon is yours to explore at your own pace. You could cycle to the beach, visit Hoi An’s famous tailor shops, or find a riverside café to enjoy the view over a refreshing drink. If you love to shop, Hoi An is a treasure trove of handcrafted goods, from original paintings and leather goods to woodwork, ceramics, embroidery, and lanterns. Whether you’re looking to pick up a unique souvenir or simply soak up the town’s charm, there’s plenty to discover.
Day 9: Hoi An to Quy Nhon
Enjoy the countryside and a memorable lunch with a family
44km – 255m

Taking a breather in the beautiful Vietnamese countryside (photo credit: Intrepid Travel)
You leave Hoi An behind and take the bus south along Highway One towards Phu. This lesser-travelled route takes you past lush paddy fields, where you may see wheat drying for Hoi Beer and locals gathered for a game of chess in the shade.
We have a memorable lunch with a local family in Sa Huynh, Quang Ngai.
In Phu, it’s back on the bikes to cycle to Quy Nhon, a coastal city known for its long sandy beaches and laid-back boulevards. Quy Nhon offers a chance to experience an authentic coastal town, with friendly locals and a relaxed atmosphere.
Day 10: Quy Nhon to Nha Trang
A (nearly) 100km ride on smooth asphalt in a beautiful landscape
94km – 305m

Nha Trang boats (photo credit: Intrepid Travel)
Today’s ride is along one of the most spectacular stretches of the trip. The highway winds along towering granite cliffs, offering breathtaking views over the sparkling sea. Following parts of the Reunification Railway, you cycle past islands, lagoons, and endless coastal horizons. It’s a ride to remember.
As you approach Nha Trang, you join the flow of scooter riders along the lively waterfront promenade. Once known as the ‘Cannes of the Orient’, this palm-lined beach and island-dotted bay make for an unforgettable photo opportunity. With its year-round warm weather, buzzing nightlife, and world-class diving, Nha Trang is the perfect place to soak up the vibrant coastal atmosphere.
Day 11: Nha Trang
A boat trip from Nha Trang, with snorkelling and a picnic lunch on the boat
No riding today.

Fish dish (photo credit: Intrepid Travel)
Instead, you swap the bikes for a boat and set off to explore the beautiful islands off Nha Trang’s coast. This excursion is often a trip highlight, offering the chance to meet local fishermen and soak up the stunning surroundings. You visit a fishing village, snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, and enjoy a fresh seafood buffet for lunch.
Day 12: Nha Trang to Dalat
Climb to Dalat at 1,600m above sea level
72km – 270m

Egg coffee (photo credit: Intrepid Travel)
You climb into the South-Central Highlands, tackling the Bidoup-Nui Ba Pass on your way to Dalat. The cooler climate here is perfect for growing Vietnam’s best coffee, flowers, and tropical fruits. The road is steep and winding, offering a real challenge for those eager to ride the full climb (or you can hop in the bus). However you reach the top, the views from the summit are incredible.
You descend into Dalat, a city often called the ‘City of Eternal Spring’ for its mild climate and stunning scenery. With lakes, pine-covered hills, palaces, flower gardens, and pagodas, Dalat is the perfect place to unwind and explore.
Day 13: Dalat to Phan Thiet
Almost all downhill from Dalat to Phan Thiet
67km – 105m

Two cyclists on a forest trail (photo credit: Intrepid Travel)
The day starts with a city tour of Dalat, including Bao Dai’s summer palace. As the last emperor of the Nguyen dynasty, Bao Dai ruled until 1945, and his regal retreat offers a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam’s past.
Next, you visit the wacky, dreamlike world of the Hang Nga Crazy House. Inspired by Gaudí’s unconventional designs, this ‘fairytale house’ is a maze of twisted tree roots, cave-like hallways, and animal-themed rooms. There’s a stop at Dalat’s historic train station and central market before continuing to Di Linh, where rolling tea plantations stretch across the hills.
After lunch, there’s a fantastic descent down the forest-lined Gia Bac Pass, before riding from Malam to the beaches of Phan Thiet, where the warm sea breeze marks the transition back to the coast.
Day 14: Phan Thiet to Ho Chi Minh City
Cycle from Phan Thiet to Ho Chi Minh City
56km – 125m
The final morning is spent on a beachside ride to Lang Long, soaking up coastal views. After a picnic lunch, you cycle to Cu Bi, where the bus takes you into Ho Chi Minh City, a dynamic mix of old-world charm and modern bustle.
Day 15: Departure day
Time to stay a bit longer and explore Ho Chi Minh City – or perhaps head off for a domestic flight or international flight home
Sponsor Message
Looking for a guided Hanoi to HCMC bike tour?
Check out Intrepid's Hanoi to HCMC cycling tours and discover the cycling trip of a lifetime!
Exclusive offer for Epic Road Rides readers: use the code below and get 5% discount on any tour you book direct with Intrepid before 5 March 2026. If booking during an Intrepid promotion period, please contact Intrepid via chat, telephone or email to have the code applied.
How challenging is it to cycle Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City?
For those travelling with Intrepid, this tour is for those who are happy spending 6-7 hour per day cycling. You’ll need a good level of fitness, since you’re cycling around 60km each day on undulating terrain and in humid, sometimes wet conditions.
For those riding self-supported then, of course, it’s up to you and you’ll be dictated by how long you have, your fitness and desire to take rests.
What’s the best time to ride Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City?
As this route stretches the length of Vietnam and passes through mountainous terrain, choosing the best time of year to ride can be tricky.
Overall, you can visit Vietnam all year around but perhaps the most favourable conditions are between March and April for the whole country. That said, Vietnam’s climate is complex and in all honesty, if you’re arriving in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh from the UK, you’ll likely Vietnam to be hot and humid whatever time of the year it is; especially in the south of the country.
Other points to note:
- The coast of central Vietnam often gets hit by typhoons during wet season; it’s difficult to know when these will hit, but typically it’s best to avoid August to November.
- Likewise, June to November can be rainy season in South Vietnam, though rain is usually in short bursts and rarely impacts travel.
- Tet is Vietnam’s New Year festival which takes place in late January/early February each year, based on the lunar calendar. In 2026, Tet will be 16 – 20 February 2026. It is the most important celebration of the year. While this can be a fascinating time to be in Vietnam, you do need to be prepared for some businesses to be closed, tourist sites to be very busy and transport to be packed as many Vietnamese people are travelling around the country. Although we do our best to run trips during Tet as per the scheduled itinerary, it is likely that there will be some changes to transport, accommodation or order of destinations visited.

Cycling through rice fields (photo credit: Intrepid Travel)
Practicalities and tips for cycling Vietnam north to south
There is a lot to know before heading off on your Vietnam cycling trip – from tips for dealing with the traffic, to food to try and data coverage.
All this and more is contained in the Tips for Cycling in Vietnam section of our guide to cycling Vietnam. Don’t leave home before you’ve read it!
Where to stay on this route?
Vietnam doesn’t have a bike-friendly hotel scheme such as you find in some countries in Europe. However, most will happily accommodate bikes though of course it’s usually better to check before you book.
When cycling from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, assuming you stay in relatively touristy aeras or close to the Ho Chi Minh Road, you should be able to find comfortable places to stay at a reasonable price tag.
On Intrepid tours, we almost always stay in hotels, except the homestay in Mai Chau and one overnight train.
What’s the best bike to use?
Road bikes (with wide tyres), touring bikes and hybrids would all be suitable for cycling Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City; your precise choice will come down to how much luggage you’re carrying and personal preference.
Be aware that bike hire is limited in Vietnam, and it’s even harder to hire bikes in larger frame sizes (such as L and XL), so it’s best to bring your bike from home if you’re planning on a self-supported bike trip.
Also be aware that there are limited bike shops – so you’ll need to have some decent bike mechanic skills and bring some spare parts if you have parts that would be difficult to source in Vietnam.
On our Intrepid tours, mountain bikes are the most popular choice, as we ride on some dirt roads and trails. E-bikes are also available for those who want a little extra support on the climbs. Rather than relying on charging stations, we carry spare batteries, ensuring a smooth ride without the need to stop and recharge along the way.
Is the Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City route signposted?
Unless you’re following Highway One or the Ho Chi Minh Road in its entirety, don’t expect signposting, whether in Vietnamese or English. Most people will want a good GPS file to follow – or a tour leader!
Is it best to cycle Vietnam north to south (or vice versa)?
In all honesty, it doesn’t matter too much whether you choose to cycle from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi or the other way around. Your decision might come down to your international flights – or which way your preferred tour operator runs tours!
However, a couple of minor reasons to cycle from north to south are:
- Typically, the weather is cooler in the north of Vietnam. As you head south, the country feels more tropical, both from the perspective of the culture and scenery but also the humidity.
- You can experience the traditional culture of the north first, then transition to the more urbanised (and party-loving!) south.
How many days of cycling does it take?
If you are on a self-supported cycling trip, this depends on a huge range of different factors including the route you take, how fit you are, how many rest days you want and so on!
Most guided cycling tours down/up Vietnam take around two weeks.
Intrepid’s tour is 14 nights, with several rest days/ non cycling days.
Are the roads asphalted?
It depends on the route you take, but it’s definitely possible to cycle from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City on sealed roads. Be aware that you’re likely to encounter potholes, uneven surfaces and loose gravel, especially in rural areas.
Is it safe to cycle Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City?
There are always dangers involved with any trip – and you should always plan your route carefully, prepare and check travel advice before travelling. Remember to stay hydrated too as dehydration in such a hot country can be a real risk.
Of course, the risks of cycling in Vietnam are greater if you are travelling with the support of a cycling tour company to help you with your route. Intrepid risk assess our trips and strive to minimise dangers.
Always check current travel information and advice before booking and starting a cycling holiday in Vietnam. For visitors from the UK, the UK government travel information pages are here.
Do you need a guide in order to cycle Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City?
Self-supported
Of course, people cycle from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh unsupported. If you’re an experienced cyclist and comfortable with independent travel, a self-guided cycling trip in Vietnam is possible with careful planning, GPS navigation, and a solid understanding of local road conditions. If you’re also a faster cyclist, you might also prefer to ride at your own pace than need to wait for a group.
Supported
On the other side of the equation… a guided cycling tour makes a bike trip through Vietnam smoother, safer, and more immersive. Having a guide can be an especially good idea if it’s your first time cycling in Vietnam.
A guide takes care of navigation, logistics, and language barriers, leaving you free to enjoy the ride. They know the best cycling routes, the best places to eat and drink, hidden local spots, and cultural highlights, helping you get more out of the journey. Vietnam’s roads can be chaotic in cities and remote in the countryside, so having support—whether for mechanical issues, route advice, or local knowledge—can be invaluable. On a guided tour you also get to do the little extras you likely wouldn’t have the energy to organise yourself – like the boat trips, town tours and homestays that make a trip pretty special.
Plus you don’t have to worry about carrying your own kit!

Exploring Hue Citadel (photo credit: Intrepid Travel)
Sponsor Message
Looking for a guided Hanoi to HCMC bike tour?
Check out Intrepid's Hanoi to HCMC cycling tours and discover the cycling trip of a lifetime!
Exclusive offer for Epic Road Rides readers: use the code below and get 5% discount on any tour you book direct with Intrepid before 5 March 2026. If booking during an Intrepid promotion period, please contact Intrepid via chat, telephone or email to have the code applied.
What does Intrepid offer?
A Vietnam cycling tour from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh with Intrepid provides a guided and supported tour but in a way that ensures you see Vietnam in the most authentic, local way possible. You get to places you wouldn’t otherwise visit, meet people in a relaxed and casual way without the barrier of a bus or car window.
Intrepid offer 14 night guided tours, with weekly departures throughout the year. The itinerary is as roughly described above – and in better detail on Intrepid’s website, here.
What do your Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City cycle tours include?
- Bike hire (e-bike subject to availability and at an additional cost of £205 for the trip)
- Small groups between 1 and 16 people.
- Support from one cycling guide, one mechanic, one driver of the passenger vehicle, and driver of the support truck, which carries the bikes.
- Mechanic and support truck driver assists with bike repairs, gives directions at intersections, organises refreshments at each rest point and assists guests who want to take a break from riding.
- Daily trip briefing
- 12 hotels, 1 homestay, 1 overnight sleeper train
- 13 breakfasts, 11 lunches and 2 dinners are included
If you’re looking for a Vietnam cycling trip that delivers, this is it!
What makes Intrepid’s Vietnam cycling tours special?
What makes Intrepid cycling tours in Vietnam special is how we blend adventure with genuine local experiences while keeping safety first.
- Unlike other tour companies whose routes may follow more popular or crowded roads, we use local insights and expert advice to choose quieter, more scenic paths that let you truly enjoy the countryside without the hassle of heavy traffic.
- Our experienced guides offer hands-on safety tips and personal attention throughout the trip.
- Plus, our accommodations are hand-picked to ensure the alignment with Intrepid’s spirit and let you relax and soak up local culture after a day on the bike.
What do guests love about Intrepid’s cycling tours?
“Cycling Vietnam was an excellent combination of fun, friendship and exercise. A great way to see the country. Great accommodation. Our leader was superb, organised, friendly and went the extra distance to sort problems and help us celebrate a birthday en route. Highly recommend this trip for anyone who enjoys biking.” Nick
“I would book this trip again, tomorrow! I absolutely loved the thrill of cycling with my new friends through the breathtaking and interesting scenery! I could enjoy every moment because I didn’t have to worry about anything. Everything was perfectly organised by our tour leader, Tien. From now on, all my holidays will be cycling trips with Intrepid!” Laura
“Cycling from north to south Vietnam was an unforgettable journey! The diverse landscapes, from the majestic mountains of the north to the serene coastlines of the south, were breathtaking at every turn. Our tour leader was exceptional—deeply knowledgeable, passionate, and always ready with fascinating stories about Vietnam’s history, culture, and hidden gems. Their expert guidance ensured a smooth, immersive experience, and their enthusiasm kept my wife and I energised throughout. This trip perfectly balanced adventure, cultural exploration, and camaraderie. Highly recommended for anyone looking to truly experience Vietnam on two wheels!” John
“Embarking on a cycling adventure through Vietnam was both demanding and fulfilling. Navigating sometimes rugged terrain and bustling streets through the pre monsoon heat tested our stamina on occasion, but the camaraderie among our group and the seamless organisation by the tour operators made every challenge worthwhile. Vietnam’s landscapes and hospitality created lasting memories. I highly recommend it.” Douglas
Why do guides love leading these tours?
We are passionate about cycling and love sharing their country with visitors. We love to connect with people from different cultures and help riders feel part of the journey. We also get a lot of satisfaction from motivating and supporting guests as they take on exciting cycling challenges. It’s also fund to share stories, history, and customs, helping guests understand Vietnam on a deeper level.

Cycling through a bamboo tunnel (photo credit: Intrepid Travel)
How should someone find out more about your tour?
You can find our Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City tours on Intrepid’s website.
Other Vietnam cycling tours might also be of interest:
Cycle Northern Vietnam
Hanoi – Mai Chau – Pu Luong – Ninh Binh – Halong Bay – Hanoi
Find out more on Intrepid’s website
Vietnam Family Holiday with Teenagers
Hanoi – Mai Chau – Ninh Binh – Halong Bay – Hoi An
Find out more on Intrepid’s website
Vietnam: Hike, Bike & Kayak
Hanoi – Lam Thuong – Sapa – Su Pan – Hanoi – Mai Chau – Ninh Binh – Cat Ba Island – Hanoi
Find out more on Intrepid’s website
Sponsor Message
Looking for a guided Hanoi to HCMC bike tour?
Check out Intrepid's Hanoi to HCMC cycling tours and discover the cycling trip of a lifetime!
Exclusive offer for Epic Road Rides readers: use the code below and get 5% discount on any tour you book direct with Intrepid before 5 March 2026. If booking during an Intrepid promotion period, please contact Intrepid via chat, telephone or email to have the code applied.
Do you want to experience cycling in Vietnam?
Let us know in the comments below!
A big thank you to Tri for sharing these Vietnam cycling insights.
Vietnam sounds like a beautiful country for a unique and memorable cycling adventure. We hope you feel inspired to bike Vietnam!
Got a question for Intrepid?
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Looking for more inspiration for a cycling adventure in Asia?
- Guide to cycling Vietnam
- Cycling Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap
- Guide to cycling Sri Lanka
- Guide to cycling Borneo
- Guide to cycling Taiwan
- What to look for when picking a bike tour
Got a question for Tri?
Fill out this form and we will send it to Tri. We aim to get you an answer within 24 hours where possible!First Published: 06 October 2025
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