Cycle Hanoi to Luang Prabang Laos to Vietnam Ride Vientiane / Luang Prabang | Sapa | Hanoi Rating 5/5 Read reviews Distance 320/560mi View stats Next tour 24 Oct '22 More dates Duration 12/18 days More options Itinerary Brochure View Price from £1590 Book Now Cycle Laos to Vietnam Download free brochure See 2022/23 Availability Book Now Laos and Vietnam Cycling Holiday Challenge yourself to cycle across the mountains of Laos and northern Vietnam, and be rewarded with an experience of a lifetime. Starting in either Vientiane (18 days) or Luang Prabang (12 days), this epic journey comes to a rest in Hanoi, Vietnam. Cycle majestic mountains, take boats through national parks, stay in local homes, learn from NGOs in regards to the effect of unexploded land mines and enjoy incredible food. This is arguably our most rewarding Social Cycles adventure!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 AU$100 deposit.You can choose your dates and duration following the above button Vientiane to Hanoi 18 Days £ 2,290 Price set in AUD ($4100) 13 of 18 days cycling Approx 560 miles Moderate to challenging Start: Vientiane Finish: Hanoi Luang Prabang to Hanoi 12 Days £ 1,590 Price set in AUD ($2850) 8 of 12 days cycling Approx 320 miles Moderate to challenging Start: Luang Prabang Finish: Hanoi Reserve My Bike Confirm your place with a AU$100 deposit.You can choose your dates and duration following the above button The cycling is considered ‘moderate’, meaning that there is one day in there that is challenging, amongst some easier days. All rides are fully supported with a van that tails us, which you can get into whenever you like. There is no rush, plenty of time to take photos along the way and we have plenty of breaks. The average moving speed is about 15km per hour. All our rides are designed to be open and available for the beginner to average recreational cyclist. Send me a free brochure Name Email Send me the itinerary and info pack please! Your privacy is safe. We do not use emails for spam Luang Prabang to Hanoi 12 days; £1590 Approximately 320 miles, 8 of 12 cycle days and some exciting climbs Vientiane to Hanoi 18 days; £2290 Approximately 560 miles, 13 of 18 cycle days and some challenging climbs 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 hireLocal guides, support van driver and mechanicFull support vehicle for the ride with water and fruitMinimum two NGO presentations with local staff across Laos & VietnamMultiple field trips to villages and communitiesMost dinners and breakfast as per the itineraryAirport transfers for arrival Tour Exclusions International flightsUS$150 donation to NGOs (optional)Tips 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 Laos is the most heavily bombed country in history relative to the size of population. The USA dropped more bombs on Laos during the Vietnam War than it dropped on Europe & Asia in all of WWII. There are an estimated 80 million unexploded bombs scattered across the country. We’ll meet just some of the NGOs tackling this issue. For every Social Cycles Adventure, riders are requested to contribute a nominal sum of US$150. During the course of the tour, you are given the chance to engage with, and learn from, local NGOs. This Social Cycles adventure has the unique opportunity to visit and learn from these projects. You can learn more about the individual NGOs we visit on the next tab. The funds raised from each rider will be able to influence which project they would like to support based on their learnings throughout the week. 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 who are then remunerated, regardless of whether or not there is a follow up donation from the group. 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. To make the most of Laos, we stay in a variety of different accommodation styles. In Luang Prabang, we stay in a beautiful French colonial style building in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage City. Once we move away from the major towns and into the rural villages, we stay in clean & comfortable guest houses. All local guesthouse rooms have their own private bathroom with a western toilet. Just before we get to Vientiane, we stay at Long Ngum View resort, with a pool to relax view the mountains by.To give you an idea, these are the types of hotels we choose to stay at when available: Vientiane- Le Luxe Boutique Hotel, Thalat- Long Ngum View Resort, Luang Prabang- My Lao Home Hotel. Hosts In 2019, the Cycle Laos adventure is hosted by local cycling legend and guru, Toh. With a smile that stretches from ear to ear and a ‘nothing is too much trouble’ attitude, we’re proud to have Toh donning the SC uniform! Toh is particularly passionate about highlighting the many features of Laos. He’ll grab the menu and order a feast, ensuring you get to try the best of Lao cuisine, make sure your bike is in top condition at all times and be there in the van ready to give you a lift when you need it most! Brett Seychell, Social Cycles founder, will try and make the adventure too. Food Sticky rice, fresh vegetables, mountains of fresh herbs, fish and meat, fish sauce, chilli, spices, fruit and more sticky rice… one of the wonderful features of the Lao diet is the almost complete absence of processed foods. Ironically, it’s the poor economic status of this small, landlocked South-East Asian country that has kept its cuisine fresh, vibrant and healthy for hundreds of years. Lao’s culinary offering includes universal hits, like steamed fish in banana leaf and pork laap salad, alongside options for the adventurous eater, such as duck’s blood salad.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 Laos, we have a great range of bikes that are designed to deal with the local environment perfectly. The bikes used are either Trek 3900 and/or Giant Rincon mountain bikes. All mountain bikes have a 24 speed gear set to help you get up and down those hills!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. Distance The overall distance, should you cycle the whole way, is just over 840km over the 8 cycling days. In addition to that, there are a lot more hills than there is flat. More often than not, you’re either going to be climbing a mountain, or flying down! In total, it is a 16,243m ascent and descent over the trip. It can sound a little daunting, but with the aid of the support van, you can cycle as much or as little as you like. Should you choose, you can even just cycle the downhill! Group size We take a minimum of four 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. NGOs Friends International are leading the charge in the ‘ChildSafe’ movement and the ‘Think Families, Not Orphanages’ campaign. Friends International have an office in Luang Prabang, which makes for a great introduction to Laos. Their programs of ‘Saving Lives’ and ‘Building Futures’ have been used as templates all over the world. Nam Nern Night Safari in the National Park of Nam et Phou Louey is supports the conservation of endangered wildlife, such as the tiger, gaur, Sambar deer, and white-cheeked gibbon. The initiative ethically balances tourism with conservation by financially rewarding local villagers to protect the wildlife, turning ex-poachers into protectors. Lone Buffalo Foundation are committed to improving opportunities for young people through English study and football coaching. LBF aims to enhance the opportunities for careers in the business and tourism sectors for Phonsavan’s young people. Quality of Life Association provides support to UXO victims, people with disabilities and UXO affected communities in Xieng Khouang province, Lao PDR. Weather Expectations Bathrooms Flights Electricity Visas Shopping Money Emergencies What to wear Photography Packing Insurance Internet Donations Food Safety Vaccinations Cycling Sleeping Arriving Our Next Laos to Vietnam Adventures Luang Prabang to Hanoi - 12 days Vientiane to Hanoi - 18 days Confirm your place with a $100 deposit.Tours are charged in AU$. The below prices are indicative only and the current exchange rate will be applied at checkout. Tours start at AU$2850 (12 days) and AU$4100 (18 days). Book Now 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! Departure Date 24th October 2022 30th October 2022 4th December 2022 10th December 2022 15th January 2023 21st January 2023 19th February 2023 25th February 2023 15th October 2023 21st October 2023 3rd December 2023 9th December 2023 Ride VTN-HAN LPQ-HAN VTN-HAN LPQ-HAN VTN-HAN LPQ-HAN VTN-HAN LPQ-HAN VTN-HAN LPQ-HAN VTN-HAN LPQ-HAN Duration 18 days 12 days 18 days 12 days 18 days 12 days 18 days 12 days 18 days 12 days 18 days 12 days Status Available Available Available Available Available Available Available Available Available Available Available Available SC Ambassdor £2090 £1490 £2090 £1490 £2090 £1490 £2090 £1490 £2090 £1490 £2090 £1490 Price £2290 £1590 £2290 £1590 £2290 £1590 £2290 £1590 £2290 £1590 £2290 £1590 Upcoming adventures 202224th October30th October4th December10th December 202315th January21st January19th February25th February15th October21st October3rd December9th December Rider reviews I highly recommend travelling with Social Cycles. I have just completed my second SE Asia trip with SC.The NGO focus is one of the reasons I travel with SC. I found these visits so educational, informative and creating awareness of such important situations, causes, challenges existing I may previously have been unaware of. I can't wait for my next SC trip, it's a permanent feature of my ongoing travel planning! CECILE This trip will enable you to experience the real Laos in the most spectacular part of the country. This is not just a cycling tour . . . you will enjoy the boat trips that include a fascinating night safari, the side trips to archaeological sites and even a hands-on visit to a hamlet where spoons are made from ordnance found locally. Andrew W This Laos tour was my 3rd trip with Social Cycles. Based on previous trips I expected and got another excellent tour! The tour went into pretty hilly remote areas. Food was great and plentiful. Backup driver Toh was brilliant. Can't wait for tour no 4. Thanks Brett Alan Opie Previous Next Reviews I highly recommend travelling with Social Cycles. The NGO focus is one of the reasons I travel with SC. So educational, informative and creating awareness of such important situations, causes, challenges existing I may previously have been unaware of. CECILE This trip will enable you to experience the real Laos in the most spectacular part of the country. This is not just a cycling tour . . . you will enjoy the boat trips that include a fascinating night safari... Andrew This Laos tour was my 3rd trip with Social Cycles. Based on previous trips I expected and got another excellent tour! Toh was brilliant. Can't wait for tour no 4. Thanks Brett Alan Previous Next 18 day itinerary Day 1: Vientiane Arrival dayThere’s a feast of exciting activities to sink your teeth into. Spend your day exploring around the many markets, museums and temples. The day is yours to potter, caffeinate and watch the world go by. The group will meet up for dinner at 6pm at the hotel, where we’ll dine at a social enterprise based vocational training restaurant, supporting Friends international.Inc. Meals: DinnerCycling: NATransit: Airport transferHotel: Le Luxe Boutique Hotel (3 star)Optional activities: Wat Sisaket, Ho Prakeo, That Luang Stupa, Patouxay (Arch de Triumph) Day 2: Thalat Rice fields, rivers and rainforestsIn the morning, we’ll visit the local NGO team of Peuan Mit (“Good Friends” in Lao). They are part of the Friends International organisation and operate a holistic program for children, youth and caregivers living on the streets and in marginalized communities in Vientiane and Luang Prabang. From here, we’ll depart Vientiane by van to get out of the city hustle. Our ride will take us from rice fields through to rainforests as we cycle passed the limestone cliffs of Phou Khao Khauy NP. Lunch will be in the small village of Ban Kern on the Nam Ngum river. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, LunchCycling: 68km | easy | +560m/-485mTransit: 20kmHotel: Long Ngum View ResortNGO: Friends International Day 3: Phou Khao Khuay National Park Boat rides, picnics and waterfallsWe’ll start the day after breakfast on a boat, making our way through to the village of Longsan, just north of the national park. Our ride takes us straight through the heart of this magnificent natural beauty and through to Tad Leuk waterfall for a well deserved break. We’ll cycle out of the park and transit through to Paksan for the evening.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerCycling: 48km |moderate | +874m/-955mTransit: 2.5 hr boat + 1 hr driveHotel: Sokbounma in Paksan Day 4: Phon Savanh Riding through timeAn early start to beat the heat of the day, this ride departs directly from the hotel and travels through remote areas and deep forest, where villages are untouched by modern civilisation. Our lunch will be served at a local restaurant in Ban Thasi, after which, we truck about 2 hours to Muang Khoun where we will visit Old stupa and Buddha sculpture which was bombed during the Vietnam war.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, LunchCycling: 81km | moderate | +1,088m/-1,032mTransit: 3 hr driveHotel: Maly Hotel Day 5: Phon Savanh Plain of Jars, UXO ordinance and a local NGOIn the morning, we’ll visit a local NGO that works with victims of land mines, still remaining from the Vietnam War. This is an incredible experience to learn about the devastation let behind from the war and the effects that remains to this day.In the afternoon we’ll visit the Plain of Jars site, an archeological landscape consisting of thousands of stone jars scattered throughout the valley. These ‘jars’ are considered to be up to 2000 years old and theorised to potentially be old burial pits.Inc. Meals: BreakfastCycling: NoneTransit: LocalHotel: Maly Hotel Day 6: Kasi Cycling mountainsWe’ll avoid riding the main road, the climbs and the trucks between Phonsavan and Phou Khoun by transferring in the morning. After lunch, we’ll take the bikes on the much quieter and scenic downhill ride to Kasi. This laid back little river town will be our last stop before riding into Luang Prabang.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, LunchCycling: 45km | easy | +664m/-1,672mTransit: 3 hrsHotel: Local Guesthouse Day 7: Luang Prabang Riding into townWe’ll skip the first 30km of climbing by jumping in the van to the viewpoint. From here we’ll attempt to cycle all the way into Luang Prabang, with twice as much downhill as up in the remaining 95km.There’s no rush and a support van that’s with us the whole way. Once we get into Luang Prabang, we’ll meet up again for dinner at the Friends International restaurant, KhaiPhaen. It’s a social enterprise based restaurant that empowers disadvantaged youth with vocational training amongst other supportInc. Meals: Breakfast, DinnerCycling: 95km | moderate | +1233m / -2778mTransit: 30kmHotel: My Lao Home Boutique Hotel Day 8: Luang Prabang Buffalos, bears and fallsThe relaxed road out of Luang Prabang will take us as far as Kuangsi Falls, one of the most spectacular swimming holes on the continent. Along the way we’ll visit the Lao Buffalo Dairy. Here, you’ll meet Aussie farmer and founder, Suzie, whose initiative provides an insight into the issues surrounding village farmers and water buffalo care. The dairy also provides animal husbandry nutrition programs to the rural communities close to the falls. Before taking a dip in the beautiful Kuangsi Falls, we’ll get a behind the scenes experience with the team from Free the Bears. This sanctuary rescues and rehabilitates sun, moon and sloth bears from bile farms.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, DinnerCycling: Optional 30km | easy | +402 m / -291 mTransit: 30kmHotel: My Lao Home Boutique Hotel Day 9: Nong Khuay Village UXO education, family life and homestayWe’ll cycle via the UXO Education Centre to get an incredible insight into the horrific bombings endured by the Lao people and the effect it still has today. The UXO centre is an amazing NGO that does fantastic work, yet just scratches the surface of this little known issue. Some 35km out of Luang Prabang is Nong Khuay Village. A very remote community, home to 80 families of both Hmong and Khummu origin. Fairtrek initiative is working extensively within the village to create new streams of revenue to boost the village economy through tourism. We’ll have the opportunity to spend time with the local families and engage in some traditional handicraft masterclasses. We will stay the night with the community and experience real village life and eat with our new host families.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, DinnerCycling: Optional 30km | easy | +402 m / -291 mTransit: 30kmHotel: My Lao Home Boutique Hotel Day 10: Nong Khiaw Cycling through remote villagesWe cycle out of the village on dirt roads for 37km and when we reach the city transfer north for 3 hours towards the Nam Ou Dam and then on to Pak Mong, from here it is a further 30km through little villages nestled in between spectacular Karst peaks.The small town of Nong Khiaw is a favourite and the rustic charm of this quiet enclave is intoxicating.. relax poolside in the shadow of elephant head mountain.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, LunchCycling: 67km (30km + 37km) | moderate | Transit: 2 hoursHotel: Mandala Ou Resort (pool) Day 11: Muang Khua River cruising in a long tail boatToday we transfer to the river to board a traditional long boat for the cruise up the Nam Ou river to the entrance to Phongsaly district. We call in at the sleepy town of Muang Ngoi on the way to stretch our legs, visit the temple and the cave complex used as shelter during the 2nd Indochina war.We’ll enjoy a pre-packed picnic lunch along the way, arriving into Muang Khua around 5pm.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, LunchCycling: NoneTransit: All day boatHotel: New Chaleunsouk Guesthouse Day 12: Dien Bien Phu Crossing into VietnamLeaving Laos today, but not before an epic 65km ride to the border from Muang Khua. This tarmac road will take you on 2 climbs, one just over 600m (10km) and the last over 800m (15km).Once you cross over to Vietnam, you’ll be transferred to the historical city of Dien Bien Phu to relax and explore. If possible, we may be able to meet the program coordinators of SOS to learn about their community development programs.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, LunchCycling: 65km | hard | +2219m / -1404mTransit: 1 hourHotel: Him Lam Resort (pool) Day 13: Mường Lay Valleys, rivers and a lost cityToday we cycle along windy valleys on a paved road that snakes through the beautiful countryside. We are surrounded by rice fields and jungles. We climb to an elevation of over 1000m and are rewarded once again with stunning views before descending (20km) to Muong Lay town.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, LunchCycling: 70km | hard | +1,718m / -2,387mTransit: NoneHotel: Muong Thanh Lai Chau Hotel (pool) Day 14: Lai Châu The mountain challengeGet up early to capture pristine nature and picturesque scenery over the Black river. After breakfast at the hotel, we will cycle the first 25km on a tarmac road to Chan Nura. A vast landscape opens up beneath you: endless mountains stretching into the distance and craterous valleys dotted with stilt-home villages clustered around clear streams. Today is a hard day’s cycling, but definitely worth it. The reward at the end of it is some of the best views in the whole region. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, LunchCycling: 70km | hard | +1,718m / -2,387mTransit: NoneHotel: Muong Thanh Lai Chau Hotel (pool) Day 15: Sapa Epic mountains, incredible valleysToday is another great day as we conquer the O Quy Ho Pass. These 38km make for the longest pass of Northwest Vietnam. It is located in the system of four mountain passes of the North West. This climb takes you to an elevation of over 2000m, with the lowest point of the day at 700m. The views and stunning scenery will provide lifelong memories and will forever be ingrained as some of the most majestic and spectacular natural imagery on the planet.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, LunchCycling: 75km | hard | +2291m / -1700mTransit: NoneHotel: Sapa O’Chau Eco Lodge Day 16: Sapa to Hanoi Overnight train to HanoiIn the morning, we’ll take time to learn about Sapa O’Chau, a great social enterprise program which offers training in tourism and hospitality to youth of the Sapa region. A morning meander through the local market will highlight the melting pot of ethnic tribes and goods for sale.You can choose to spend the afternoon cycling a gentle 25km downhill into the Sapa valley and experience the fantastic scenery of mountains, rice paddy fields and Hmong villages along the way. Alternatively, you can rest and relax in the town of Sapa.The riders will be transferred back to Sapa and then to Lao Cai railway station for your overnight train to Hanoi.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, LunchCycling: 25km | easy | +164m / -1267mTransit: NoneHotel: Sapalay overnight train (4 berth cabin) Day 17: Hanoi The Great Donation DebateStep out of the station and into the throngs of the city, the aromas of famous Hanoi street food awaits for breakfast. After checking into the hotel, we’ll spend the morning learning from our NGO partner, Mekong Plus.The afternoon is yours to explore the Old Quarter, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex or just find one of Hanoi’s endless funky cafes to sit back, relax and enjoy a egg coffee. In the evening, we’ll enjoy our last supper together as we discuss the NGOs we learned about and where the donation money could and should go.Inc. Meals: DinnerCycling: NoneTransit: Train Station to HotelHotel: Three star Hanoi Hotel Day 18: Hanoi Departure DaySay goodbye to your new found friends and riding buddies after breakfast as you get set to continue your onward journey.Inc. Meals: BreakfastCycling: NoneTransit: Airport transfer arranged on request ($)Hotel: Additional accommodation arranged on request ($) 18 Day Itinerary Vientiane | Luang Prabang | Sapa | Hanoi The 12 day ride from Luang Prabang starts at dinner on day #7 #1 #2 #3 #4 #5 #6 #7 #8 #9 #10 #11 #12 #13 #14 #15 #16 #17 #18 #1 Vientiane:Arrival dayThere’s a feast of exciting activities to sink your teeth into. Spend your day exploring around the many markets, museums and temples. The day is yours to potter, caffeinate and watch the world go by. The group will meet up for dinner at 6pm at the hotel, where we’ll dine at a social enterprise based vocational training restaurant, supporting Friends international.Inc. Meals: DinnerCycling: NATransit: Airport transferHotel: Le Luxe Boutique Hotel (3 star)Optional activities: Wat Sisaket, Ho Prakeo, That Luang Stupa, Patouxay (Arch de Triumph) #2 Thalat:Rice fields, rivers and rainforestsIn the morning, we’ll visit the local NGO team of Peuan Mit (“Good Friends” in Lao). They are part of the Friends International organisation and operate a holistic program for children, youth and caregivers living on the streets and in marginalized communities in Vientiane and Luang Prabang. From here, we’ll depart Vientiane by van to get out of the city hustle. Our ride will take us from rice fields through to rainforests as we cycle passed the limestone cliffs of Phou Khao Khauy NP. Lunch will be in the small village of Ban Kern on the Nam Ngum river. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, LunchCycling: 68km | easy | +560m/-485mTransit: 20kmHotel: Long Ngum View ResortNGO: Friends International #3 Phou Khao Khuay National ParkBoat rides, picnics and waterfallsWe’ll start the day after breakfast on a boat, making our way through to the village of Longsan, just north of the national park. Our ride takes us straight through the heart of this magnificent natural beauty and through to Tad Leuk waterfall for a well deserved break. We’ll cycle out of the park and transit through to Paksan for the evening.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerCycling: 48km |moderate | +874m/-955mTransit: 2.5 hr boat + 1 hr driveHotel: Sokbounma in Paksan #4 Phon SavanhRiding through timeAn early start to beat the heat of the day, this ride departs directly from the hotel and travels through remote areas and deep forest, where villages are untouched by modern civilisation. Our lunch will be served at a local restaurant in Ban Thasi, after which, we truck about 2 hours to Muang Khoun where we will visit Old stupa and Buddha sculpture which was bombed during the Vietnam war.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, LunchCycling: 81km | moderate | +1,088m/-1,032mTransit: 3 hr driveHotel: Maly Hotel #5 Phon SavanhPlain of Jars, UXO ordinance and a local NGOIn the morning, we’ll visit a local NGO that works with victims of land mines, still remaining from the Vietnam War. This is an incredible experience to learn about the devastation let behind from the war and the effects that remains to this day.In the afternoon we’ll visit the Plain of Jars site, an archeological landscape consisting of thousands of stone jars scattered throughout the valley. These ‘jars’ are considered to be up to 2000 years old and theorised to potentially be old burial pits.Inc. Meals: BreakfastCycling: NoneTransit: LocalHotel: Maly Hotel #6 Kasi:Cycling mountainsWe’ll avoid riding the main road, the climbs and the trucks between Phonsavan and Phou Khoun by transferring in the morning. After lunch, we’ll take the bikes on the much quieter and scenic downhill ride to Kasi. This laid back little river town will be our last stop before riding into Luang Prabang.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, LunchCycling: 45km | easy | +664m/-1,672mTransit: 3 hrsHotel: Local Guesthouse #7 Luang PrabangRiding into townWe’ll skip the first 30km of climbing by jumping in the van to the viewpoint. From here we’ll attempt to cycle all the way into Luang Prabang, with twice as much downhill as up in the remaining 95km.There’s no rush and a support van that’s with us the whole way. Once we get into Luang Prabang, we’ll meet up again for dinner at the Friends International restaurant, KhaiPhaen. It’s a social enterprise based restaurant that empowers disadvantaged youth with vocational training amongst other supportInc. Meals: Breakfast, DinnerCycling: 95km | moderate | +1233m / -2778mTransit: 30kmHotel: My Lao Home Boutique Hotel #8 Luang Prabang:Buffalos, bears and fallsThe relaxed road out of Luang Prabang will take us as far as Kuangsi Falls, one of the most spectacular swimming holes on the continent. Along the way we’ll visit the Lao Buffalo Dairy. Here, you’ll meet Aussie farmer and founder, Suzie, whose initiative provides an insight into the issues surrounding village farmers and water buffalo care. The dairy also provides animal husbandry nutrition programs to the rural communities close to the falls. Before taking a dip in the beautiful Kuangsi Falls, we’ll get a behind the scenes experience with the team from Free the Bears. This sanctuary rescues and rehabilitates sun, moon and sloth bears from bile farms.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, DinnerCycling: Optional 30km | easy | +402 m / -291 mTransit: 30kmHotel: My Lao Home Boutique Hote #9 Nong Khuay Village :UXO education, family life and homestayWe’ll cycle via the UXO Education Centre to get an incredible insight into the horrific bombings endured by the Lao people and the effect it still has today. The UXO centre is an amazing NGO that does fantastic work, yet just scratches the surface of this little known issue. Some 35km out of Luang Prabang is Nong Khuay Village. A very remote community, home to 80 families of both Hmong and Khummu origin. Fairtrek initiative is working extensively within the village to create new streams of revenue to boost the village economy through tourism. We’ll have the opportunity to spend time with the local families and engage in some traditional handicraft masterclasses. We will stay the night with the community and experience real village life and eat with our new host families.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, DinnerCycling: Optional 30km | easy | +402 m / -291 mTransit: 30kmHotel: My Lao Home Boutique Hote #10 Nong Khiaw:Cycling through remote villagesWe cycle out of the village on dirt roads for 37km and when we reach the city transfer north for 3 hours towards the Nam Ou Dam and then on to Pak Mong, from here it is a further 30km through little villages nestled in between spectacular Karst peaks.The small town of Nong Khiaw is a favourite and the rustic charm of this quiet enclave is intoxicating.. relax poolside in the shadow of elephant head mountain.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, LunchCycling: 67km (30km + 37km) | moderate | Transit: 2 hoursHotel: Mandala Ou Resort (pool) #11 Muang Khua:River cruising in a long tail boatToday we transfer to the river to board a traditional long boat for the cruise up the Nam Ou river to the entrance to Phongsaly district. We call in at the sleepy town of Muang Ngoi on the way to stretch our legs, visit the temple and the cave complex used as shelter during the 2nd Indochina war.We’ll enjoy a pre-packed picnic lunch along the way, arriving into Muang Khua around 5pm.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, LunchCycling: NoneTransit: All day boatHotel: New Chaleunsouk Guesthouse #12 Dien Bien PhuCrossing into VietnamLeaving Laos today, but not before an epic 65km ride to the border from Muang Khua. This tarmac road will take you on 2 climbs, one just over 600m (10km) and the last over 800m (15km).Once you cross over to Vietnam, you’ll be transferred to the historical city of Dien Bien Phu to relax and explore. If possible, we may be able to meet the program coordinators of SOS to learn about their community development programs.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, LunchCycling: 65km | hard | +2219m / -1404mTransit: 1 hourHotel: Him Lam Resort (pool) #13 Mường LayValleys, rivers and a lost cityToday we cycle along windy valleys on a paved road that snakes through the beautiful countryside. We are surrounded by rice fields and jungles. We climb to an elevation of over 1000m and are rewarded once again with stunning views before descending (20km) to Muong Lay town.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, LunchCycling: 70km | hard | +1,718m / -2,387mTransit: NoneHotel: Muong Thanh Lai Chau Hotel (pool) #14 Lai Châu:The mountain challengeGet up early to capture pristine nature and picturesque scenery over the Black river. After breakfast at the hotel, we will cycle the first 25km on a tarmac road to Chan Nura. A vast landscape opens up beneath you: endless mountains stretching into the distance and craterous valleys dotted with stilt-home villages clustered around clear streams. Today is a hard day’s cycling, but definitely worth it. The reward at the end of it is some of the best views in the whole region. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, LunchCycling: 70km | hard | +1,718m / -2,387mTransit: NoneHotel: Muong Thanh Lai Chau Hotel (pool) #15 SapaEpic mountains, incredible valleysToday is another great day as we conquer the O Quy Ho Pass. These 38km make for the longest pass of Northwest Vietnam. It is located in the system of four mountain passes of the North West. This climb takes you to an elevation of over 2000m, with the lowest point of the day at 700m. The views and stunning scenery will provide lifelong memories and will forever be ingrained as some of the most majestic and spectacular natural imagery on the planet.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, LunchCycling: 75km | hard | +2291m / -1700mTransit: NoneHotel: Sapa O’Chau Eco Lodge #16 Sapa to Hanoi:Overnight train to HanoiIn the morning, we’ll take time to learn about Sapa O’Chau, a great social enterprise program which offers training in tourism and hospitality to youth of the Sapa region. A morning meander through the local market will highlight the melting pot of ethnic tribes and goods for sale.You can choose to spend the afternoon cycling a gentle 25km downhill into the Sapa valley and experience the fantastic scenery of mountains, rice paddy fields and Hmong villages along the way. Alternatively, you can rest and relax in the town of Sapa.The riders will be transferred back to Sapa and then to Lao Cai railway station for your overnight train to Hanoi.Inc. Meals: Breakfast, LunchCycling: 25km | easy | +164m / -1267mTransit: NoneHotel: Sapalay overnight train (4 berth cabin) #17 Hanoi:The Great Donation DebateStep out of the station and into the throngs of the city, the aromas of famous Hanoi street food awaits for breakfast. After checking into the hotel, we’ll spend the morning learning from our NGO partner, Mekong Plus.The afternoon is yours to explore the Old Quarter, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex or just find one of Hanoi’s endless funky cafes to sit back, relax and enjoy a egg coffee. In the evening, we’ll enjoy our last supper together as we discuss the NGOs we learned about and where the donation money could and should go.Inc. Meals: DinnerCycling: NoneTransit: Train Station to HotelHotel: Three star Hanoi Hotel #18 Hanoi:Departure DaySay goodbye to your new found friends and riding buddies after breakfast as you get set to continue your onward journey.Inc. Meals: BreakfastCycling: NoneTransit: Airport transfer arranged on request ($)Hotel: Additional accommodation arranged on request ($) Vientiane to Hanoi 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- Out of Vientiane 68km | easy | +560m / -485m Day 3 -Phou Khao Khuay National Park 48km | moderate | +874m / -955m Day 4 - Phonsavan 81km | moderate | +1,088m / -1,032m Day 6- Kasi 45km | easy | +664m / -1,672m Day 7 - Luang Prabang 95km | moderate | +1233m / -2778m Day 8 - Luang Prabang Optional 30km | easy | +402 m / -291 m Day 9 - Village Homestay 30km | moderate | +501m / -159m 13 out of 18 days cycling Moderate to challenging Up to 800km Mostly elevation and descending mostly paved, country roads Average pace 15-18km/h Day 10 - Nong Khiaw 67km (30km + 37km) | moderate Day 12 - Dien Bien Phu 65km | hard | +2219m / -1404m Day 13 - Muong Lay Up to 95km | hard | +1997 m / -2258 m Day 14 - Lai Chau 70km | hard | +1,718m / -2,387m Day 15 - Sapa 75km | hard | +2291m / -1700m Day 16 - Sapa Optional 25km | easy | +164m / -1267m TOTAL 794km | +13,711m / -16,388m Features & Inclusions Inclusions The tour prices listed above includes:all nights accommodationBicycle hireOne tour facilitator plus engagements from local expertsSupport vehicle for the rideNGO presentations with local staff across Laos and VietnamMultiple field trips to villages and communitiesBreakfast, lunch and dinner as per the itineraryDrinking water and fruit Exclusions The tour prices listed above excludes:Donations to NGOsTips and gratuitiesAirfaresVisasTravel insurancePersonal expenses Social Impact Laos is the most heavily bombed country in history relative to the size of population. The USA dropped more bombs on Laos during the Vietnam War than it dropped on Europe & Asia in all of WWII. There are an estimated 80 million unexploded bombs scattered across the country. We’ll meet just some of the NGOs tackling this issue. For every Social Cycles Adventure, riders are requested to contribute a nominal sum of US$150. During the course of the tour, you are given the chance to engage with, and learn from, local NGOs. This Social Cycles adventure has the unique opportunity to visit and learn from these projects. You can learn more about the individual NGOs we visit on the next tab. The funds raised from each rider will be able to influence which project they would like to support based on their learnings throughout the week. 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 who are then remunerated, regardless of whether or not there is a follow up donation from the group. 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. To make the most of Laos, we stay in a variety of different accommodation styles. In Luang Prabang, we stay in a beautiful French colonial style building in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage City. Once we move away from the major towns and into the rural villages, we stay in clean & comfortable guest houses. All local guesthouse rooms have their own private bathroom with a western toilet. Just before we get to Vientiane, we stay at Long Ngum View resort, with a pool to relax view the mountains by.To give you an idea, these are the types of hotels we choose to stay at when available: Vientiane- Khamvongsa, Thalat- Long Ngum View Resort, Luang Prabang- Sunway Hotel Hosts In 2020, the Cycle Vietnam to Laos adventure is co-hosted by Social Cycles founder Brett Seychell. Brett is passionate about sustainable travel and enriching experiences by engaging with local experts. That’s why he will co-facilitate the 2020 tours and connect riders with local experts. To obtain an authentic Laos experience and truly gain from local knowledge, the adventure is co-hosted by a local Laos bike tour operational expert, based in Luang Prabang. The Vietnam side is hosted by a local Vietnam team. We will be changing teams at the border. Food Sticky rice, fresh vegetables, mountains of fresh herbs, fish and meat, fish sauce, chilli, spices, fruit and more sticky rice… one of the wonderful features of the Lao diet is the almost complete absence of processed foods. Ironically, it’s the poor economic status of this small, landlocked South-East Asian country that has kept its cuisine fresh, vibrant and healthy for hundreds of years. Lao’s culinary offering includes universal hits, like steamed fish in banana leaf and pork laap salad, alongside options for the adventurous eater, such as duck’s blood salad. Bikes In Laos, we partner with a local supplier for the hire of our bikes and as a result, there is a great range that are designed to deal with the local environment perfectly. The bikes used are either Trek 3900 and/or Giant Rincon mountain bikes. Each mountain bike comes with a helmet, lock, comfortable gel seat and a handlebar bag. All mountain bikes have a 24 speed gear set to help you get up and down those hills! Distances The overall distance, should you cycle the whole way, is just over 840km over the 8 cycling days. In addition to that, there are a lot more hills than there is flat. More often than not, you’re either going to be climbing a mountain, or flying down! In total, it is a 16,243m ascent and descent over the trip. It can sound a little daunting, but with the aid of the support van, you can cycle as much or as little as you like. Should you choose, you can even just cycle the downhill! Group Size We take a minimum of four 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. NGOs Friends International are leading the charge in the ‘ChildSafe’ movement and the ‘Think Families, Not Orphanages’ campaign. Friends International have an office in Luang Prabang, which makes for a great introduction to Laos. Their programs of ‘Saving Lives’ and ‘Building Futures’ have been used as templates all over the world. Nam Nern Night Safari in the National Park of Nam et Phou Louey is supports the conservation of endangered wildlife, such as the tiger, gaur, Sambar deer, and white-cheeked gibbon. The initiative ethically balances tourism with conservation by financially rewarding local villagers to protect the wildlife, turning ex-poachers into protectors. Lone Buffalo Foundation are committed to improving opportunities for young people through English study and football coaching. LBF aims to enhance the opportunities for careers in the business and tourism sectors for Phonsavan’s young people. Quality of Life Association provides support to UXO victims, people with disabilities and UXO affected communities in Xieng Khouang province, Lao PDR. 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Iran Cycling Holiday Cambodia and Vietnam Cycling Holiday Samoa cycling holiday 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