Cambodia and Vietnam Cycling Holiday Cambodia to Vietnam Rating 5/5 Read reviews Distance 480km + View stats Next tour 17 Oct '24 View dates Duration 12/16 days View options Download Brochure Begin REP-SGN Itinerary View Price from AU$2790 Book Now Cambodia to Vietnam Download free brochure See 2024/25 Availability Book Now Cycling Cambodia to Vietnam Cycle through Get on a bicycle, off the beaten track and explore the contrast in countries between Cambodia and Vietnam.With adventures beginning from your choice of Siem Reap (16 days) or Phnom Penh (12 days), and finishing in Saigon, Vietnam, you can truly explore and uncover the mysteries of these two incredible countries. We’ll explore the magnificent temples of Angkor, navigate through the Tonle Sap wetlands, cycle through remote villages and get completely immersed in the narrow paths of the Mekong Delta. This is a cycling adventure that’s open to all levels. because when the ride is this good, nobody should miss out!Social Cycles will take you on a journey to interact and connect with local grassroot Non Government Organisations (NGOs) and the beneficiaries of a funded project of your choosing. Research what really happens on the ground and out in the villages with Social Cycles in a holiday that carefully balances ethical research and local impact with cycling and site seeing. Reserve my bike Confirm your place with a $100 deposit.You can choose your dates and duration following the above button Phnom Penh to Saigon 12 Days AU$ 2,790 Seasonal pricing 6 of 12 days cycling Approx 480km Terrain: Flat, some off road, one hill Start: Phnom Penh Finish: Saigon Siem Reap to Saigon 16 Days AU$ 3,690 Seasonal pricing 10 of 16 days cycling Approx 695km Terrain: Flat, some off road, one hill Start: Siem Reap Finish: Saigon Reserve my bike Confirm your place with a $100 deposit.You can choose your dates and duration following the above button Send me the itinerary Name Email Send me the itinerary please! Your privacy is safe. We do not use emails for spam. Phnom Penh to Saigon 12 days; AU$2790 Approximately 480km, 6 of 12 cycling days, easy to moderate level, mostly flat with some off road Siem Reap to Saigon 16 days; AU$3690 Approximately 695km, 10 of 16 cycling days, easy to moderate level, mostly flat with some off road Features & Inclusions Tour Inclusions Tour Exclusions Social Impact Hotels Hosts Food Bikes Distance Group size NGOs Tour Inclusions All accommodation in comfortable hotels (twin share basis)Full Bicycle hire (E-Bikes available ($)AU$200 donation to the NGO of your choiceLocal guides, support van driver and mechanicFull support vehicle for the ride with water and fruitMinimum 3 NGO presentations across Cambodia & VietnamMultiple field trips to villages and communitiesEntry to Angkor Wat in Siem Reap (16 day ride only)Genocide Museum in Phnom PenhTuk Tuk Rally in Phnom PenhMekong Delta floating market tour, with cocoa farm and ride noodle experiencePepper farm tour in KampotCooking ClassMost dinners & breakfast as per the itineraryAirport transfers for arrival Tour Exclusions International flightsTips and Gratuities (from US$0 to US$100 pp)Drinks with mealsDeparture airport transfer (US$8-US$10)Travel insuranceVisa’s (if required)Other items of a personal nature Social Impact For every Social Cycles tour, all riders have contributed AU$200 to go to the NGO of your choice. During the course of the tour, you are given the chance to engage with, and learn from, local NGOs. We visit no less than three NGOs during the Cambodia to Vietnam tour and spend some time learning about their projects, strategies and challenges. At the end of the tour, the riders are then empowered with new found knowledge and have the opportunity to combine the allotted donation money and make an impact towards a project of their choosing. In addition to building a profile for our impact partners, Social Cycles also pays each NGO for their time and resources. We spend 1-2 hours with each NGO. You can read more here The donation part is included in your ticket price. We want people to be open to the idea of supporting one or more of the NGOs we visit and learn about. If, after meeting some of the local teams and learning about their programs, the riders did not want to donate, then they are not required to and a refund will be arranged. Hotels We understand how important it is to take rest in a place that’s clean and comfortable – especially after a hard slog on the bikes. That’s why we always make an effort to get you settled in somewhere in town suited to that description. Where we can, we will organise boutique style accommodation for everyone (with a pool) because quite frankly, you deserve it. We’ll also make sure that a massage is not far away! In Ben Tre in the midst of the Mekong Delta, we stay with a local family in a homestay setting. This is a great chance to pick up a few cooking skills!There are times where the accommodation may change, but generally speaking, we stay at the following hotels: The Amazing Residence in Siem Reap, Cambana La Riviere in Battambang, Pursat Riverside Hotel in Pursat, Pacific Hotel in Phnom Penh, Dai Luong in Rach Gia, Ninh Kieu in Can Tho and Prague Hotel in Saigon. Hosts You’ve probably heard it said a dozen times already, but you’ll find some of the friendliest people on the planet in Cambodia and the same stands true for Hoem; our translator/guide/driver and all round great guy. Hoem has been with us from our very first tour and gives testament to the value of local knowledge. And of course, Brett Seychell, the Social Cycles founder does not miss an opportunity to get back on the bike and cycle through his favourite part of the world. Cycling Cambodia is the inspiration for what has become Social Cycles. ‘So’ (that’s his name, pictured right) is an absolute superstar and will take care of everything bike related. Buntry (has his own picture) is the newest member of the team and travels all the way from Siem Reap to Saigon.Once we cross the border into Vietnam, we’ll meet up with the Social cycles Vietnam crew who will guide us all the way to Saigon! Food The best part about cycling from one country to another is to cycle through the various regions of food along the way. This is slow travel at it’s best as Cambodia offers salt lakes and pepper farms, fresh crab markets in Kep and tarantulas in Phnom Penh (optional!) Meanwhile, in the Mekong Delta, you will roll your own noodle sheets and eat your way through a street food degustation sensation of everything sweet, salty, spicy and sour! Most of the included dinners are at social enterprise based restaurants, supporting the local NGOs. But this is not the main reason we eat here, it’s because the food is delicious!All meals are shared, ‘family style’, so you get an abundance of choice sitting in front of you at the table. A great chance to try a bit of everything! Dietaries are catered for as well, just let us know in advance. Bikes In Cambodia and Vietnam, we use 24 speed mountain bikes. Most bikes have either 27″ or 29″ wheels, whilst some of the smaller bikes are 26″. The front suspension is perfect for the bumps along the road and the wider tyres allow for strong traction when you need it most.You’re welcome to bring your own saddle if you’re slightly nervous about getting a bit sore, or haven’t had the chance to get a lot of saddle time before the ride. Another good option is to bring along a gel seat (cushion). The bikes are fitted with standard pedals. Again, you’re welcome to bring clip ins should you want them. All bikes are fitted with a water cage. Bikes re fully serviced before and after every ride and we’ll have So, our trusty mechanic, with us at all times!E-Bikes are available for the 12 day tour (AU$300) or the 16 day ride (AU$450). you can also just opt to have the E-Bikes in Vietnam only (AU$150) Distance Some days are 30km, some are 50km and some are a little further. See itinerary for daily details. When we embark on an 85km day, the distance can seem quite daunting. However, an early start for 7am and an ETA of 4pm arrival gives us 9 hours to get there. And two hours of extra daylight up our sleeve if we need it! Travelling by bicycle is not about the destination, but the journey. We’ll stop for Khmer and Vietnamese coffees, local treats, lunch and of course, to take plenty of pictures. When we are moving, the average pace is about 15-20km per hour. Our small group policy means it’s easier for all of us to stay together. You don’t need to be super fit for this ride, you just need to be positive.At times, there may be an opportunity to continue cycling and push 100km in a day. It doesn’t mean you have to, but if time is on our side, the path is beautiful and you’re feeling fit, then you have the option. The alternative is to get in the air conditioned van, shuttle off to the hotel and enjoy a cold beer! It’s win-win! Group size We take a minimum of two riders and a maximum of 12. We strongly believe that when you travel with a group beyond 12, there is a risk that voices and opinions may be drowned out when we have the rare opportunities to visit NGOs and ask questions to local leaders. The Siem Reap to Saigon ride also comprises of smaller travel opportunities (Siem Reap to Phnom Penh or Phnom Penh to Saigon for example), therefore, there may be more than 12 people in it’s entirety, but not at any one time. If you’d like to book a private tour with you and your friends, simply click here for more information. We can also explore self guided tours in this region. NGOs Friends International are leading the charge in the ‘ChildSafe’ movement and the ‘Think Families, Not Orphanages’ campaign. Friends International have an office in Phnom Penh, which makes for a great introduction to Cambodia. Chumkriel Language School is an incredible organisation that go so far beyond teaching language. In Vietnam, we often visit Mekong Plus, a fantastic organisation that work within community development with a very holistic approach. In Siem Reap, we often get a chance to learn from This Life Cambodia. In the small’ish regional province of Pursat, we’ll visit and learn from Sustainable Cambodia about their community development and educational programs.Due to the nature of travel, public holidays and unavoidable timetable clashes, we may not be able to visit all of the above NGOs. If there is one in particular that you are interested in, please let us know prior to travel. Click here for a full list of our NGO network and partners. Expectations Visas Shopping What to wear Internet Insurance Donations Money Packing Photography Food Sleeping Flights Cycling Emergencies Weather Electricity Safety Bathrooms Arriving Vaccinations Our Next Cambodia & Vietnam Adventures Siem Reap to Saigon - 16 days Phnom Penh to Saigon - 12 days Confirm your place with a AU$100 deposit Book Here If this is your second, third or even fourth Social Cycles adventure, then we’d like to welcome you back with a special SC Ambassadors rate. Just book as normal and we’ll apply the discount on your invoice. We’ll remember you! 2024 July to December Departure Date July 18th July 22nd August 15th August 19th September 12th September 16th October 17th October 21st November 14th November 18th December 21st December 25th Duration 16 days 12 days 16 days 12 days 16 days 12 days 16 days 12 days 16 days 12 days 16 days 12 days Status Available Available Available Available Available Available Available Available Available Available Available Available SC Ambassadors AU$3250 AU$2450 AU$3250 AU$2450 AU$3250 AU$2450 AU$3250 AU$2450 AU$3250 AU$2450 AU$3250 AU$2450 Price AU$3690 AU$2790 AU$3690 AU$2790 AU$3690 AU$2790 AU$3690 AU$2790 AU$3690 AU$2790 AU$3690 AU$2790 2025 January to June Departure Date January 9th January 13th January 23rd January 27th February 13th February 17th March 13th March 17th May 15th May 19th June 19th June 23rd Duration 16 days 12 days 16 days 12 days 16 days 12 days 16 days 12 days 16 days 12 days 16 days 12 days Status Guaranteed Guaranteed Guaranteed Guaranteed Guaranteed Guaranteed Guaranteed Guaranteed Guaranteed Guaranteed Guaranteed Guaranteed SC Ambassadors AU$3250 AU$2450 AU$3250 AU$2450 AU$3250 AU$2450 AU$3250 AU$2450 AU$3250 AU$2450 AU$3250 AU$2450 Price AU$3690 AU$2790 AU$3690 AU$2790 AU$3690 AU$2790 AU$3690 AU$2790 AU$3690 AU$2790 AU$3690 AU$2790 2025 July to December Departure Date July 17th July 21st August 14th August 18th September 18th September 22nd October 16th October 20th November 13th November 17th December 4th December 8th December 25th December 29th Duration 16 days 12 days 16 days 12 days 16 days 12 days 16 days 12 days 16 days 12 days 16 days 12 days 16 days 12 days Status Guaranteed Guaranteed Guaranteed Guaranteed Guaranteed Guaranteed Guaranteed Guaranteed Guaranteed Guaranteed Guaranteed Guaranteed Guaranteed Guaranteed SC Ambassadors AU$3250 AU$2450 AU$3250 AU$2450 AU$3250 AU$2450 AU$3250 AU$2450 AU$3250 AU$2450 AU$3250 AU$2450 AU$3250 AU$2450 Price AU$3690 AU$2790 AU$3690 AU$2790 AU$3690 AU$2790 AU$3690 AU$2790 AU$3690 AU$2790 AU$3690 AU$2790 AU$3690 AU$2790 Upcoming Adventures 2024: July to December 18th July22nd July15th August19th August12th September16th September17th October21st October14th November18th November21st December25th December 2025: January to June 9th January13th January23rd January27th January13th February17th February13th March17th March15th May19th May19th June23rd June 2025: July to December 17th July21st July14th August18th August18th September22nd September16th October20th October13th November17th November4th December8th December25th December29th December Reviews from our riders This is the first time I've done a cycling holiday. With an off the beaten track route, excellent leading with a great group of fellow cyclists, what more could one ask for? Additionally two NGO visits helped us to understand some of the social challenges facing this beautiful country. Hoem and So were excellent guiding us through the city traffic, and helpful throughout. thank you. I would recommend this for anyone travelling as a single. Janet Meeting so many wonderful people from around the globe and sharing this epic cycling journey together was awesome. The cycling was a challenge and an incredible adventure from beginning to end which far exceeded my expectation! Hats off to Brett for his skilled leadership, his encouragement and support throughout; nothing was ever a problem or too much trouble! Looking forward to my next Social Cycles adventure. Noreen Overall outstanding trip! Cycling route, length, pace, and variety was perfect for the length of tour. The people were great, and while some of this is random, I believe that you Brett, set a tone and culture that helped the group meld nicely. Your day to day organization was also good, which engendered confidence and allowed me to just relax, ride and enjoy. Having Cambodian guides/driver/mechanic is also key to a great experience and all these guys were capable , friendly and a huge asset. The FOOD was awesome. your F&B background definitely added to our experience. I particularly liked the family style meals where you would order, as it gave us variety we might not otherwise have, and also reduced the stress and hassle of ordering, splitting bills etc. The NGO and museum visits really did open my eyes to the challenges of this country, and that enhanced the trip immensely. Mary A fantastic tour. It truly was all about the journey, not the destination. Seeing Cambodia and Vietnam at true grassroots level was amazing, with lots of adventures (both spontaneous and planned) Meeting up with the NGOs gave a greater insight and understanding of what we were seeing each day. Brett and his team did a great job. He communicated effectively and quickly, he provided great challenges, always kept us safe, and his passion for helping the communities we were passing through was infectious. It was a definitely a memorable great tour! Megan We have been fortunate to go on a journey of a lifetime from Phonm Penh to Hoi Chi Minh. 500km in total. Brett took us right out of our comfort zones and revealed a world we didnt know existed. We cycled through a maze of interesting back roads and pathways that revealed a side of Cambodia and Vietnam most Westerners would never see. We enjoyed the cyclying part immensely. It was a challenge at times but so worth the experience. Brett is a wonderful humanitarian who introduced us to 4 NGOs along the way We will go home and share with others the knowledge we have gained about the NGOs we visited. He is an incredible leader and organiser. Nothing seems to rattle him. We knew we were always in safe hands and felt great confidence in all his directions. All the best for Social Cycles and hopefully oneday we will join you again. Best wishes Joanna and Steve joanna & steve elliot My wife and I completed Brett's Cambodia to Vietnam tour. I have travelled over much of the world and have had more than a few adventures. This one was excellent in all respects. Brett has a laid back approach but a remarkable attention to detail. The tour was amazing! We toured a number of farms and organizations that are doing good for the local people. Very inspiring. Before the trip, my wife and I were concerned that we would not be able to keep up with the bicycling. We are healthy, but not especially fit, and we are a bit older; I am 68 and my wife is 57. It turned out that our worries were misplaced. The cycling was challenging but far from overwhelming and we did just fine. My goal now is to try to convince one of my grown children or one or two of my more adventurous friends to take one of Brett's tours. I know they would not be disappointed. Bill Gifford Our ride with Brett from Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh City was one of the most memorable trips I have ever done. It was the perfect balance of physical challenge and authentic exposure to the off road realities in Cambodia and Vietnam. We have cycled in many countries but nothing even vaguely compares with this experience. I was particularly moved by our guide Brett’s commitment to showing us the roads less travelled in these countries and his gentle and non-intrusive encouragement of all of us to see these places as he sees them and to follow him on this physical and social journey while carefully attending to our safety. A real odyssey on so many levels. We are still baking in the afterglow. Geoff Solarsh Wow Wow Wow!!!! I just returned from the cycle Cambodia to Vietnam trip Dec 2017 I have done many of these types of adventure trips, but none of them even came close to this experience. Brett will make sure that you have an epic, life-changing experience! More importantly, Brett has his HEART AND SOUL into making sure the trip is helping to make a positive impact on a social level in countries that are truly struggling. Visiting the NGO'S was surely a highlight and very eye opening. When you take a tour with Brett... yes, you cycle! but you are also helping to contribute to positive change in countries that REALLY need the help. In addition, Brett was in contact with me personally from the start. He replied to my questions and got back to me on my concerns. Other bigger companies did not do this.I really appreciated the personal communication. It is very comforting especially when traveling solo and visiting such foreign countries. If I had just one last thing to say... I would use the NIKE slogan..."JUST DO IT" Hallie I've been fortunate enough to join Brett on two trips with Social Cycles now, met some awesome like minded people and had some great laughs As you would expect, the accommodation is not 5 star but clean, comfortable and compĺemented with friendly staff. The Reid mountain bicycles are comfortable, well maintained and fit for purpose, the cycling legs each day, although challenging, are achievable with some training. If you want a cycling adventure holiday with purpose via the road less travelled, visiting and learning from local NGOs, with great people and great food.....this is it Brett and his support team are very well organised, professional and great fun to tour with Looking forward to my next trip with Social Cycles. Stuart Opie This trip was beyond my expectations - Brett was a supportive, well-educated guide whose support personnel were incredibly well organized. This is for the adventurous and those who want to be truly immersed in the local culture, food, customs and social issues. Brett's commitment to socially responsible travel shines through out this trip, thus making the experience unforgettable and life changing. Our small group of 12 cyclists bonded and watched out for each other, thus adding to why this is one of the best trips I have ever experienced. I felt I got my full money's worth and MORE with this trip. For those with a spirit of adventure in your heart - don't hesitate to participate in one of Brett's trips. You will be changed in your view of yourself and how you see the world. It was one of the best, if not THE BEST travel experience I was able to take! It was truly a life-changing experience for me. Cynthia Withers Previous Next Reviews It was my first tour. Could not have asked for a better experience. It was a great eye opener, a wonderful adventure, with perfect amount of enough down time and a great way to meet new people. Already planning the next trip.. Randa An incredible experience which will last a lifetime! I loved cycling off the beaten track and learning how the local NGOs are working with their communities. This really was a life changing adventure and I now view the world from a different perspective. Kate Brett has a laid back approach but a remarkable attention to detail. The tour was amazing! My goal now is to try to convince one of my grown children or one or two of my more adventurous friends to take one of Brett's tours. I know they would not be disappointed. Bill Gifford Our ride with Brett from Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh City was one of the most memorable trips I have ever done. A real odyssey on so many levels. We are still baking in the afterglow. Geoff Solarsh I've been fortunate enough to join Brett on two trips with Social Cycles now. If you want a cycling adventure holiday with purpose via the road less travelled, visiting and learning from local NGOs, with great people and great food.....this is it Looking forward to my next trip with Social Cycles. Stuart Opie For those with a spirit of adventure in your heart - don't hesitate to participate in one of Brett's trips. You will be changed in your view of yourself and how you see the world. It was one of the best, if not THE BEST travel experience I was able to take! It was truly a life-changing experience for me. Cynthia Withers Wow Wow Wow!!!! I just returned from the cycle Cambodia to Vietnam trip Dec 2017 I have done many of these types of adventure trips, but none of them even came close to this experience. Brett will make sure that you have an epic, life-changing experience! More importantly, Brett has his HEART AND SOUL into making sure the trip is helping to make a positive impact on a social level Hallie We have been fortunate to go on a journey of a lifetime from Phonm Penh to Hoi Chi Minh. 500km in total. Brett took us right out of our comfort zones and revealed a world we didnt know existed. We cycled through a maze of interesting back roads that revealed a side most Westerners would never see. Brett is an incredible leader and organiser. Nothing seems to rattle him. We knew we were always in safe hands. joanna & steve elliot Previous Next 16 Day Itinerary Siem Reap to Saigon Phnom Penh to Saigon starts on day 5 (PM) Day 1: Siem Reap Arrival day and welcome dinnerWe arrive and stay in the heart of the cosmopolitan lifestyle that has been thrust on Siem Reap since the country has opened up to the outside world. After we pick you up from the airport and take you to the hotel, take some time to relax or explore the city before we meet for a welcome dinner. For dinner, we’ll dine at a comfortable, NGO basedrestaurant. Not only a great meal, but a training ground for marginalized youth. We’ll jump into the culinary deep end with an array of local feasts.Inc. Meals: DinnerCycling: NATransit: Airport transfer Day 2: Siem Reap Sunrise cycling around the temples of AngkorSunrise is from 4.30am as we hit the bikes for the first time, but it is so worth it. Sunrise over Angkor Wat is a bucket list achievement for good reason. From here we’ll venture on to other, and arguably more impressive, temples in the area for the remainder of the morning. In the early afternoon we’ll have the chance to visit our first NGO of the trip. We will spend time with these incredibly inspirational people that have dedicated their lives to helping others. Hear their stories and understand what the real issues of the country are.Inc. Meals: BreakfastCycling: 30kmActivities: Angkor WatNGO: This Life Cambodia Day 3: Battambang River riding via local villagesWe ride out of Siem Reap to the boat port (20km). Travelling across the wetlands and navigating our way around Tonle Sap river is an experience you will never forget. The road soon turns to single track as we get more and more remote. We farewell our support van and venture on into the rural and barren lands of Cambodia. Few villages exist out here, supporting themselves through sustainable fishing methods. After the boat, it’s another 20-30km to Battambang, depending on the river levels. Battambang is great for shopping, with colonial style streets and hidden secrets where bric-a-brac abounds. Dinner is in another social enterprise based restaurant, Jann Bai, that is often hailed as the best dinner in Cambodia!Inc. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerCycling: 40 to 50kmActivities: Boat ride (4hrs) Day 4: Pursat Battambang and surrounds by bikeAfter an early breakfast, we’ll make our way along the dusty red back roads to the nearby local attraction of Banan Temple. We’ll cycle back to the town of Battambang to explore a little more and grab lunch at leisure. We’ll get to the town of Pursat by early afternoon and into our hotel to enjoy the swimming pool and on site massage spa. We’ll get a great experience from an amazing NGO, Sustainable Cambodia. A full presentation by the executives in their office and a tour of their facilities. See the difference the NGO makes first hand. Be inspired by the real difference made by real people.Inc. Meals: BreakfastCycling: 50kmTransit: 2hrsActivities: Banan TempleNGO: Sustainable Cambodia Day 5: Phnom Penh Cycling into Phnom Penh, riverside villages and Tonle SapWe start cycling 75km out from Phnom Penh, and ride all the way up to the front door of the hotel. The back roads bring in some of the most spectacular scenery as we pass through villages living on Tonle Sap lake. The ride takes in great coffee stops, endless photo opportunities and a couple of ferries. Relax and unwind with the evening at your leisure.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, LunchCycling: Up to 75kmTransit: 2hrs Day 6: Phnom Penh Friends International, S-21 genocide museum and Khmer BBQWe’ll start the day by meeting the incredible people at Friends International and learn about the wonderful work they do within the community. This is a great insight into REAL local everyday issues, from real local everyday heroes. From the office, we venture towards the Russian market and then move to Tuol Sleng, also known as S-21 Genocide Museum. This devastating chapter of the Khmer Rouge and Cambodian history is emotionally challenging but strongly recommended. There is some free time in the afternoon to process your day, whilst we’ll meet again for a local Khmer BBQ dinner.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, DinnerCycling: NoneActivities: S-21 Genocide MuseumNGO: Friends International Day 7: Kampot Chisaur TempleWe cycle south of Phnom Penh to Chisaur Mountain Temple in rural Cambodia. It’s not really much of a mountain at 130m and the route is perfectly flat. We casually cycle through remote villages and waterways, via narrow dirt tracks. Chisaur Temple is where we’ll be for lunch as we have plenty of time to explore these ancient ruins which are 200 years older than Angkor Wat. From here, we’ll take the van down to the Cambodian coastal town of Kampot to enjoy the culinary delights on offer.Inc. Meals: BreakfastCycling: 65kmTransit: 2.5 hrsActivities: Chisaur Temple Day 8: Kampot The Bokor Mountain Cycle Challenge Start the day with an (optional) mammoth Bokor Mountain cycle challenge! It’s 30km to get to the top. The first 10km is flat, then it just keeps on going up, and up, and up! If cycling uphill doesn’t rock your world, we can bring your bike in the van and you can cycle down! If you feel like taking some time off the bike, Kampot is a great town to caffeinate, people watch and relax.Inc. Meals: NoneCycling: 60kmActivities: Bokor Mountain Day 9: Kampot Salt Fields community, CLS and Khmer cooking classIn the morning, we’ll visit Chumkriel Language School (no children will be in attendance at the time of visiting). A fantastic NGO and inspirational human being, Mr Suthy has set up a very grass roots local school to give access to education for children of the salt field community. In the afternoon, we’ll partake in a cooking class, teaching us the best of Khmer cuisine!Inc. Meals: DinnerCycling: 10km (salt fields, optional)Activities: Cooking classNGO: Chumkriel Language School Day 10: Rach Gia (Vietnam) Salt lakes, pepper farms, live crab markets and white beachesToday we cross over the border into Vietnam, but not before we discover the wonderful province of Kep. Located just before the border, this town is famous for it’s fresh seafood, particularly crab. We’ll spend a couple of hours exploring the famous pepper plantations and salt lakes on the way. Navigating through the back roads, we’ll make our way around the National Park and to the border crossing into Ha Tien Vietnam.From Ha Tien, we’ll jump in the van and head to Rach Gia for a feast of local seafood and Banh Xeo.Inc. Meals: DinnerCycling: 65kmActivities: Pepper farm tourTransit: 2.5 hrs (Viet border to Rach Gia) Day 11: Can Tho Cycling the Mekong DeltaCan Tho is where the Mekong Delta really comes into it’s own! To get there we cut through the back roads of rice paddy’s and farm land, arriving in the city by late afternoon. The ride finishes about 20km out of the city, but if your legs and daylight permit, there’s an option to continue all the way in. Alternatively, you can jump in the van. With a population of over a million and a thriving tourist trade, Can Tho has a vibrancy about it like none other. Relax and explore this amazing city. For dinner, we’ll pull up a patch of grass at the night market and treat yourself to a degustation of delightful street food!Inc. Meals: BreakfastCycling: 80km to 100kmTransit: 0km to 20km Day 12: Can Tho Sunrises, floating markets, noodle factories and cocoa farmsWe’ll catch the floating markets for most of the morning. This is no tourist performance, this is real life for the local people where they trade, sell and buy every day. Following that, we’ll visit the noodle factory where you’ll have a chance to make your own noodles and the cocoa farms just before lunch. The rest of the afternoon is yours to relax, get a massage and soak in the culture!Inc. Meals: BreakfastCycling: NoneActivities: Cocoa farm, rice noodle factory, floating market boat ride Day 13: Ben Tre Ben Tre:More Mekong cycling and a local homestayWe’ll take a day to casually explore the oasis that is the Mekong Delta. From the coconut candy factories of Ben Tre to the canals and floating markets of My Tho, this is a place to relax and unwind. We’ll avoid the hordes of tourists in My Tho by using Ben Tre as a base to explore the region. It’s still a full day cycling from Can Tho and we’ll enjoy getting amongst the maze that is the Mekong Delta. We should get into Ben Tre for 5pm, and relax with a local family in their home (private rooms). You’ll also have the chance to have an impromptu cooking class for great local food!Inc. Meals: Breakfast, DinnerCycling: 85km to 100kmTransit: 0km to 15km Day 14: Saigon Cycling into SaigonWe’ll start early to beat the heat and what we can of the traffic. We’ll head straight to a coconut candy factory (either by van or by bike) to learn more about this local delicacy. Cycling into Saigon for the last cycle day of the tour is an incredible experience. Ho Chi Minh is what the world would look like if cars weren’t invented. With whole lanes and roads dedicated to two wheels, it is the city of the future as the population grows. Cycling the final 15km or so is completely optional, if you’re not comfortable in the traffic. Usually, about half the riders choose to take the van. Our hotel is in the heart of the city, just a short stroll from the Street Food Market for dinner and a live band.Inc. Meals: BreakfastCycling: 80km to 100kmTransit: 0km to 20km Day 15: Saigon Mekong Quilts and KOTOWe’ll visit our final NGO of the trip in Mekong Plus. With a presence in Cambodia and Vietnam, this grass roots local NGO focus on a hand up, not hand out policy. The social enterprise part of this NGO trains beneficiaries to make quilts, handicrafts and bamboo bicycles. The holistic approach from Mekong Plus includes education scholarships, vocational training, micro finance programs and social enterprise businesses. Use the day to explore at your leisure. There are a feast of local markets, grand shopping centres, museums and attractions in Ho Chi Minh. For the evening we’ll meet up for dinner, swap stories, photos and decide where you’d like the donation money to go to.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, DinnerCycling: NoneNGO: Mekong Plus Day 16: Departure Day Departure Day!Congratulations! You’ve cycled across a couple of countries, covered almost 700km in the saddle and more than scratched the surface as to what these fantastic countries are about. We’ll enjoy a final breakfast together before you set off to the airport or your next adventure.Inc. Meals: BreakfastCycling: NoneTransit: Departure transfer not included, but can be arranged on request 16 Day Itinerary Siem Reap to Saigon Phnom Penh to Saigon starts on day 5 (PM) #1 #2 #3 #4 #5 #6 #7 #8 #9 #10 #11 #12 #13 #14 #15 #16 #1 Siem Reap: Arrival day and welcome dinner We arrive and stay in the heart of the cosmopolitan lifestyle that has been thrust on Siem Reap since the country has opened up to the outside world. After we pick you up from the airport and take you to the hotel, take some time to relax or explore the city before we meet for a welcome dinner. For dinner, we’ll dine at a comfortable, NGO based restaurant. Not only a great meal, but a training ground for marginalized youth. We’ll jump into the culinary deep end with an array of local feasts. Inc. Meals: Dinner Cycling: NA Transit: Airport transfer #2 Siem Reap:Sunrise cycling around the temples of AngkorSunrise is from 4.30am as we hit the bikes for the first time, but it is so worth it. Sunrise over Angkor Wat is a bucket list achievement for good reason. From here we’ll venture on to other, and arguably more impressive, temples in the area for the remainder of the morning. In the early afternoon we’ll have the chance to visit our first NGO of the trip. We will spend time with these incredibly inspirational people that have dedicated their lives to helping others. Hear their stories and understand what the real issues of the country are.Inc. Meals: BreakfastCycling: 30kmActivities: Angkor WatNGO: This Life Cambodia #3 Battambang:River riding, local villages and coffee stopsWe ride out of Siem Reap to the boat port (20km). Travelling across the wetlands and navigating our way around Tonle Sap river is an experience you will never forget. The road soon turns to single track as we get more and more remote. We farewell our support van and venture on into the rural and barren lands of Cambodia. Few villages exist out here, supporting themselves through sustainable fishing methods. After the boat, it’s another 20-30km to Battambang, depending on the river levels. Battambang is great for shopping, with colonial style streets and hidden secrets where bric-a-brac abounds. Dinner is in another social enterprise based restaurant, Jann Bai, that is often hailed as the best dinner in Cambodia!Inc. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerCycling: 40 to 50kmActivities: Boat ride (4hrs) #4 Pursat:Battambang to Banan by bikeAfter an early breakfast, we’ll make our way along the dusty red back roads to the nearby local attraction of Banan Temple. We’ll cycle back to the town of Battambang to explore a little more and grab lunch at leisure. We’ll get to the town of Pursat by early afternoon and into our hotel to enjoy the swimming pool and on site massage spa. We’ll get a great experience from an amazing NGO, Sustainable Cambodia. A full presentation by the executives in their office and a tour of their facilities. See the difference the NGO makes first hand. Be inspired by the real difference made by real people.Inc. Meals: BreakfastCycling: 50kmTransit: 2hrsActivities: Banan TempleNGO: Sustainable Cambodia #5 Phnom Penh:Cycling into Phnom Penh, riverside villages and Tonle SapWe start cycling 75km out from Phnom Penh, and ride all the way up to the front door of the hotel. The back roads bring in some of the most spectacular scenery as we pass through villages living on Tonle Sap lake. The ride takes in great coffee stops, endless photo opportunities and a couple of ferries. Relax and unwind with the evening at your leisure.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, LunchCycling: Up to 75kmTransit: 2hrs #6 Phnom Penh:Friends International, S-21 genocide museum and Khmer BBQWe’ll start the day by meeting the incredible people at Friends International and learn about the wonderful work they do within the community. This is a great insight into REAL local everyday issues, from real local everyday heroes. We then venture towards the Russian market and move to Tuol Sleng, also known as S-21 Genocide Museum. This devastating chapter of the Khmer Rouge and Cambodian history is emotionally challenging but strongly recommended. There is some free time in the afternoon to process your day, whilst we’ll meet again for a local Khmer BBQ dinner.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, DinnerCycling: NoneActivities: S-21 Genocide MuseumNGO: Friends International #7 Kampot:Chisaur TempleWe cycle south of Phnom Penh to Chisaur Mountain Temple in rural Cambodia. It’s not really much of a mountain at 130m and the route is perfectly flat. We casually cycle through remote villages and waterways, via narrow dirt tracks. Chisaur Temple is where we’ll be for lunch as we have plenty of time to explore these ancient ruins which are 200 years older than Angkor Wat. From here, we’ll take the van down to the Cambodian coastal town of Kampot to enjoy the culinary delights on offer.Inc. Meals: BreakfastCycling: 65kmTransit: 2.5 hrsActivities: Chisaur Temple #8 Kampot:The Bokor Mountain Cycle Challenge Start the day with an (optional) mammoth Bokor Mountain cycle challenge! It’s 30km to get to the top. The first 10km is flat, then it just keeps on going up, and up, and up! If cycling uphill doesn’t rock your world, we can bring your bike in the van and you can cycle down! If you feel like taking some time off the bike, Kampot is a great town to caffeinate, people watch and relax.Inc. Meals: NoneCycling: 60kmActivities: Bokor Mountain #9 Kampot:Salt Fields, CLS and Khmer cooking classIn the morning, we’ll visit Chumkriel Language School (no children will be in attendance at the time of visiting). A fantastic NGO and inspirational human being, Mr Suthy has set up a very grass roots local school to give access to education for children of the salt field community. In the afternoon, we’ll partake in a cooking class, teaching us the best of Khmer cuisine!Inc. Meals: DinnerCycling: 10km (salt fields, optional)Activities: Cooking classNGO: Chumkriel Language School #10 Rach Gia (Vietnam):Salt lakes, pepper farms, live crab markets and white beachesToday we cross over the border into Vietnam, but not before we discover the wonderful province of Kep. Located just before the border, this town is famous for it’s fresh seafood, particularly crab. We’ll spend a couple of hours exploring the famous pepper plantations and salt lakes on the way. Navigating through the back roads, we’ll make our way around the National Park and to the border crossing into Ha Tien Vietnam.From Ha Tien, we’ll jump in the van and head to Rach Gia for a feast of local seafood and Banh Xeo.Inc. Meals: DinnerCycling: 65kmActivities: Pepper farm tourTransit: 2.5 hrs (Viet border to Rach Gia) #11 Can Tho:Cycling the Mekong DeltaCan Tho is where the Mekong Delta really comes into it’s own! To get there we cut through the back roads of rice paddy’s and farm land, arriving in the city by late afternoon. The ride finishes about 20km out of the city, but if your legs and daylight permit, there’s an option to continue all the way in. Alternatively, you can jump in the van. With a population of over a million and a thriving tourist trade, Can Tho has a vibrancy about it like none other. Relax and explore this amazing city. For dinner, we’ll pull up a patch of grass at the night market and treat yourself to a degustation of delightful street food!Inc. Meals: BreakfastCycling: 80km to 100kmTransit: 0km to 20km #12 Can Tho:Sunrises, floating markets, noodle factories and cocoa farmsWe’ll catch the floating markets for most of the morning. This is no tourist performance, this is real life for the local people where they trade, sell and buy every day. Following that, we’ll visit the noodle factory where you’ll have a chance to make your own noodles and the cocoa farms just before lunch. The rest of the afternoon is yours to relax, get a massage and soak in the culture!Inc. Meals: BreakfastCycling: NoneActivities: Cocoa farm, rice noodle factory, floating market boat ride #13 Ben Tre:More Mekong cycling and a local homestayWe’ll take a day to casually explore the oasis that is the Mekong Delta. From the coconut candy factories of Ben Tre to the canals and floating markets of My Tho, this is a place to relax and unwind. We’ll avoid the hordes of tourists in My Tho by using Ben Tre as a base to explore the region. It’s still a full day cycling from Can Tho and we’ll enjoy getting amongst the maze that is the Mekong Delta. We should get into Ben Tre for 5pm, and relax with a local family in their home (private rooms). You’ll also have the chance to have an impromptu cooking class for great local food!Inc. Meals: Breakfast, DinnerCycling: 85km to 100kmTransit: 0km to 15km #14 Saigon:Cycling into SaigonWe’ll start early to beat the heat and what we can of the traffic. We’ll head straight to a coconut candy factory (either by van or by bike) to learn more about this local delicacy. Cycling into Saigon for the last cycle day of the tour is an incredible experience. Ho Chi Minh is what the world would look like if cars weren’t invented. With whole lanes and roads dedicated to two wheels, it is the city of the future as the population grows. Cycling the final 15km or so is completely optional, if you’re not comfortable in the traffic. Usually, about half the riders choose to take the van. Our hotel is in the heart of the city, just a short stroll from the Street Food Market for dinner and a live band.Inc. Meals: BreakfastCycling: 80km to 100kmTransit: 0km to 20km #15 Saigon:Mekong Quilts and KOTOWe’ll visit our final NGO of the trip in Mekong Plus. With a presence in Cambodia and Vietnam, this grass roots local NGO focus on a hand up, not hand out policy. The social enterprise part of this NGO trains beneficiaries to make quilts, handicrafts and bamboo bicycles. The holistic approach from Mekong Plus includes education scholarships, vocational training, micro finance programs and social enterprise businesses. Use the day to explore at your leisure. There are a feast of local markets, grand shopping centres, museums and attractions in Ho Chi Minh. For the evening we’ll meet up for dinner, swap stories, photos and decide where you’d like the donation money to go to.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, DinnerCycling: NoneNGO: Mekong Plus #16 Departure Day!Congratulations! You’ve cycled across a couple of countries, covered almost 700km in the saddle and more than scratched the surface as to what these fantastic countries are about. We’ll enjoy a final breakfast together before you set off to the airport or your next adventure.Inc. Meals: BreakfastCycling: None Top things to do: Our City Guides Top things to do in Phnom Penh, Cambodia Top things to do in Siem Reap Top things to do in Kampot Cambodia Top things to do in Battambang Cambodia Phnom Penh Siem Reap Kampot Battambang Siem Reap to Saigon Cycling Stats Cycling Stats To see greater details of each cycling day (maps, terrain, advice etc), please refer to the detailed notes page. Day 2- Angkor Wat 30km - 40km, flat, paved, easy Day 3 - Wetlands 50km - off road, some single track, moderate Day 4 - Battambang 50km, paved roads, flat, easy Day 5- Tonle Sap river 75km - off road, compact gravel, easy/mod Day 7 - Beyond Phnom Penh 65km - mixed terrain, flat, single track moderate 10 out of 16 days cycling Easy to moderate Up to 695km All flat, except day 8 mostly off road, compact Average pace 15-18km/h Day 8 - Bokor Challenege 60km - 10km flat, 20km up & return, paved Day 10 - Kep 65km - paved, gravel and track, lots of breaks Day 11 - Can Tho Vietnam 80km-98km - narrow paved roads, easy/mod Day 13 - Ben Tre 80km-100km - more narrow roads, some single track Day 14 - Saigon 80km-100km -cycle into Saigon, back roads, paved mostly Features & Inclusions Inclusions All accommodation in comfortable hotels (twin share basis)Full Bicycle hireLocal guides, support van driver and mechanicFull support vehicle for the ride with water and fruitAU$200 donation to the NGO of your choiceMinimum three NGO presentations with local staff across Cambodia & VietnamMultiple field trips to villages and communitiesEntry to Angkor Wat in Siem Reap (16 day)Genocide Museum in Phnom PenhMekong Delta floating market tour, with cocoa farm and ride noodle experiencePepper farm tour in KampotCooking ClassMost dinners & breakfast as per the itineraryAirport transfers for arrival Exclusions International flightsTips and Gratuities (from US$0 to US$100 pp)Drinks with mealsDeparture airport transfer (US$8-US$10)Travel insuranceVisa’s (if required)Other items of a personal nature Social Impact For every Social Cycles tour, all riders have contributed AU$200 to go to the NGO of your choice. During the course of the tour, you are given the chance to engage with, and learn from, local NGOs. We visit no less than three NGOs during the Cambodia to Vietnam tour and spend some time learning about their projects, strategies and challenges. At the end of the tour, the riders are then empowered with new found knowledge and have the opportunity to combine the allotted donation money and make an impact towards a project of their choosing. In addition to building a profile for our impact partners, Social Cycles also pays each NGO for their time and resources. We spend 1-2 hours with each NGO. You can read more here The donation part is included in your ticket price. We want people to be open to the idea of supporting one or more of the NGOs we visit and learn about. If, after meeting some of the local teams and learning about their programs, the riders did not want to donate, then they are not required to and a refund will be arranged. Hotels We understand how important it is to take rest in a place that’s clean and comfortable – especially after a hard slog on the bikes. That’s why we always make an effort to get you settled in somewhere in town suited to that description. Where we can, we will organise boutique style accommodation for everyone (with a pool) because quite frankly, you deserve it. We’ll also make sure that a massage is not far away! In Ben Tre in the midst of the Mekong Delta, we stay with a local family in a homestay setting. This is a great chance to pick up a few cooking skills!There are times where the accommodation may change, but generally speaking, we stay at the following hotels: The Amazing Residence in Siem Reap, Cambana La Riviere in Battambang, Pursat Riverside Hotel in Pursat, Pacific Hotel in Phnom Penh, Dai Luong in Rach Gia, Ninh Kieu in Can Tho and Prague in Saigon. Hosts You’ve probably heard it said a dozen times already, but you’ll find some of the friendliest people on the planet in Cambodia and the same stands true for Hoem; our translator/guide/driver and all round great guy. Hoem has been with us from our very first tour and gives testament to the value of local knowledge. And of course, Brett Seychell, the Social Cycles founder does not miss an opportunity to get back on the bike and cycle through his favourite part of the world. Cycling Cambodia is the inspiration for what has become Social Cycles. ‘So’ (that’s his name, pictured right) is an absolute superstar and will take care of everything bike related. Buntry (has his own picture) is the newest member of the team and travels all the way from Siem Reap to Saigon.Once we cross the border into Vietnam, we’ll meet up with the Social cycles Vietnam crew who will guide us all the way to Saigon along with Buntry! Food The best part about cycling from one country to another is to cycle through the various regions of food along the way. This is slow travel at it’s best as Cambodia offers salt lakes and pepper farms, fresh crab markets in Kep and tarantulas in Phnom Penh (optional!) Meanwhile, in the Mekong Delta, you will roll your own noodle sheets and eat your way through a street food degustation sensation of everything sweet, salty, spicy and sour! Most of the included dinners are at social enterprise based restaurants, supporting the local NGOs. But this is not the main reason we eat here, it’s because the food is delicious!All meals are shared, ‘family style’, so you get an abundance of choice sitting in front of you at the table. A great chance to try a bit of everything! Dietaries are catered for as well, just let us know in advance. Bikes In Cambodia and Vietnam, we use 24 speed mountain bikes. Most bikes have either 27″ or 29″ wheels, whilst some of the smaller bikes are 26″. The front suspension is perfect for the bumps along the road and the wider tyres allow for strong traction when you need it most.You’re welcome to bring your own saddle if you’re slightly nervous about getting a bit sore, or haven’t had the chance to get a lot of saddle time before the ride. Another good option is to bring along a gel seat (cushion). The bikes are fitted with standard pedals. Again, you’re welcome to bring clip ins should you want them. All bikes are fitted with a water cage. Bikes re fully serviced before and after every ride and we’ll have So, our trusty mechanic with us at all times! Distances Some days are 30km, some are 50km and some are a little further. See itinerary for daily details. When we embark on an 85km day, the distance can seem quite daunting. However, an early start for 7am and an ETA of 4pm arrival gives us 9 hours to get there. And two hours of extra daylight up our sleeve if we need it! Travelling by bicycle is not about the destination, but the journey. We’ll stop for Khmer and Vietnamese coffees, local treats, lunch and of course, to take plenty of pictures. When we are moving, the average pace is about 15-20km per hour. Our small group policy means it’s easier for all of us to stay together. You don’t need to be super fit for this ride, you just need to be positive.At times, there may be an opportunity to continue cycling and push 100km in a day. It doesn’t mean you have to, but if time is on our side, the path is beautiful and you’re feeling fit, then you have the option. The alternative is to get in the air conditioned van, shuttle off to the hotel and enjoy a cold beer! It’s win-win! Group Size We take a minimum of two riders and a maximum of 12. We strongly believe that when you travel with a group beyond 12, there is a risk that voices and opinions may be drowned out when we have the rare opportunities to visit NGOs and ask questions to local leaders. The Siem Reap to Saigon ride also comprises of smaller travel opportunities (Siem Reap to Phnom Penh or Phnom Penh to Saigon for example), therefore, there may be more than 12 people in it’s entirety, but not at any one time. If you’d like to book a private tour with you and your friends, simply click here for more information. We can also explore self guided tours in this region. NGOs Friends International are leading the charge in the ‘ChildSafe’ movement and the ‘Think Families, Not Orphanages’ campaign. Friends International have an office in Phnom Penh, which makes for a great introduction to Cambodia. Chumkriel Language School is an incredible organisation that go so far beyond teaching language. In Vietnam, we often visit Mekong Plus, a fantastic organisation that work within community development with a very holistic approach. In Siem Reap, we often get a chance to learn from This Life Cambodia. In the small’ish regional province of Pursat, we’ll visit and learn from Sustainable Cambodia about their community development and educational programs.Due to the nature of travel, public holidays and unavoidable timetable clashes, we may not be able to visit all of the above NGOs. If there is one in particular that you are interested in, please let us know prior to travel. Click here for a full list of our NGO network and partners. 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Laos cycling holiday Mongolia Cycling Holiday Cycle Hanoi to Luang Prabang Cambodia Cycling Holiday Brett Seychell +61 479 108 222 [email protected] 696 Bourke St, Melbourne 3000 about us How we started Our purpose Your donations Responsible travel Meet the team NGO partners Private adventures Corporate teams Self guided destinations Cambodia Laos Iran Samoa Vietnam Mongolia Colombia connect Name Email Let's stay in touch Facebook Twitter Instagram Linkedin Youtube responsibletravel recommends Social Cycles Brett Seychell +61 479 108 222 [email protected] 696 Bourke St, Melbourne 3000 connect Facebook Twitter Instagram Linkedin Youtube Name Email Let's stay in touch