Trail of Vietnam by bycycle

Hoa Lu was the first capital of the independent Vietnam, under the Dinh dynasty and the early Le Dynasty (968-1009). There are two sanctuaries, each of them devoted to the emperors of these two dynasties. They are set into a landscape of limestone mountains reminiscent of some the better known sites of South China.

Tam Coc, better known as "Ha Long Bay on land", is also one of astounding natural beauty with limestone peaks whose splendor is often said to surpass that of Ha Long Bay. Here you can take a boat tour on a river which tunnels several times into the endless range of mountains. The river is actually used by local villagers to access their rice fields.

The nearby Kenh Ga canal provides the opportunity to observe river life in the North. The Van Long submerged land, covering an area of 2,643 hectares, is the largest sub-merged natural protected site in north Vietnam. Take a row boat on the waters of Van Long and enjoy the natural beauty of surrounding landscapes.

The whole area is an important center of Catholicism, and you will be surprised to see churches among the rice fields. Phat Diem has a vast cathedral which has a unique mixture of Oriental & Occidental architecture.

Last but not least, Cuc Phuong national park is the first recognized and best preserved nature reserve in Vietnam. The Park’s primary tropical rainforest is home to an amazing variety of wildlife and in recent years several species have been discovered here.

Brief of itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi – Tam Coc – Bich Dong – Hoa Lu – Ninh Binh (35 km)
Day 2: Ninh Binh – Phat Diem – Van Long – Kenh Ga – Cuc Phuong National Park (45 km)
Day 3: Cuc Phuong – Hanoi

Details of itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi – Tam Coc – Bich Dong – Hoa Lu – Ninh Binh (35 km)

We leave Hanoi at 07.00 and head south for a 2-hour drive along Highway One to Ninh Binh town. After checking in, we are introduced to our bicycles, each designated bike being then adjusted and fitted with our own equipment as required.

We then start cycling along the big easy road to Tam Coc (5 km). Here we have a 2-hour boat trip on the river through the green rice paddy surrounded by ranges of green limestone mountains. Lunch.
After lunch, we drive 2 km to Bich dong pagodas, which, built on Ngu Nhac Mountain, is divided into three levels: Ha Pagoda (lower pagoda), Trung Pagoda (middle pagoda), and Thuong Pagoda (upper pagoda). On the mountain peak stands the statue of a scholar Mandarin looking at the horizon in hope of viewing the spectacular landscapes of Hoa Lu.

Getting back to the bikes, we continue cycling 12 km through the country road to Hoa Lu. After visiting Hoa Lu we loop back on our bikes to Ninh Binh.
Overnight in Ninh Binh (Hoa lu or Van Xuan hotel) (Dinner incl)

Day 2: Ninh Binh – Phat Diem – Van Long – Kenh Ga – Cuc Phuong National Park (45 km)

Following breakfast we cycle through the beautiful countryside en route to Phat Diem. Visit Phat Diem Cathedral. We then take the support vehicle to Gian town, where we continue cycling to Van Long. Here we will enjoy a row boat trip. Afterwards we continue cycling to Kenh Ga. Here we will enjoy a picnic lunch before taking a boat trip to visit villages along the Hoang Long river. From Kenh Ga, we part-cycle to Cuc Phuong National Park.
Overnight at National Park Guest House. (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included)

Day 3: Cuc Phuong – Hanoi

Rising this morning with the sounds of the forest all around us, we do a short warm-up climb to the Observation Tower where you can enjoy the panoramic view of the region. After that we will visit the Endangered Primate Rescue centre and learn a little of the work that is being done to preserve the endangered native primates.

Getting back in the saddles, we cycle to the centre of the Park with a couple of stops along the ways for visiting the Old tree, Cave of Ancient Men, and for pictures. We will arrive in the Park centre at around noon when we will have lunch. Afterwards we commence our 1 ½ hour trek through the lush rainforest to see more of the biological diversity of Cuc Phuong. We then are transferred back to Hanoi. Arrive Hanoi at around 06 00 pm. Tour ends. (Breakfast and Lunch incl)

The Bicycles

For this trip we use the ‘Matts Cruise 5.7’ and ‘Kalahari 500’ performance bicycles made by German cycle specialists Merida. The bicycles have 24 speeds and a lightweight steel alloy frame designed for road cycling. Other features include LRS (Low Ratio Suspension) and excellent damping capacity, both of which help to absorb vibration and shocks for a smoother, more comfortable and enjoyable ride. The bicycles are available in a number of sizes.

What to take

We suggest a medium sized backpack that can be kept in the support vehicle. We also suggest a small daypack for when you are cycling. This should be large enough to contain an adequate supply of water and a personal first aid kit. Suitcases are not suitable for this trip. We also recommend good comfortable walking or running shoes, sandals and a pair of loose fitting comfortable long pants for the evenings.
Please note that clients are expected to bring your own bicycle helmet. However, you can rent them from us if required.

Before you leave home complete the following checklist

Lightweight and quick dry clothing is most appropriate for the summer months and warmer clothing for the winter months; sun hat; insect repellant; sunscreen; sunglasses.
Travel Documents: Passport, visa, Travel Insurance, Air Tickets.
Health requirements and travel insurance arranged.
Flashlight/Torch, alarm clock, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, personal first aid kit, personal toiletries including biodegradable soap.
Money: US dollars or travelers checks and/or credit card.
Raincoat or umbrella (winter months only).
Cable lock or padlock for luggage.

Joining instructions
You will be collected from your hotel in Hanoi. Pick up time will be advised on confirmation of booking.

Tour package price in usd per person