Cycling Chiang Mai to Bangkok

Groups can be from 2 to 16. For groups of 9 or more, a second guide joins the tour.

Yes. Riders must be 18 years old by the time the tour starts.

Yes. The bikes available to rent are Trek 2.1 C, Domane 2.0 and carbon Émonda S5 road bikes, with Shimano components and seat posts. If you have your own saddle that you are comfortable with, you are welcome to bring it, and it will be fitted for you. Strap-style toe cages can be provided if requested, but you might like to consider bringing SPD clip pedals if you use them, and please make sure to bring your shoes and cleats.

The total distance is 925 km (574 mi) in 10 riding days. This tour is 100% on roads, and the route is designed for cyclists to see the best of Thailand. If you are looking for a more leisurely ride with more stops at sites, then please consider the River of Kings Ride tour that is along the same route. On this tour, you will start in the north, so there are a few climbs on the first two days as we go over the foothills surrounding Chiang Mai. The central part of Thailand is flat, and after the third day, you will not see any more hills.

You will travel south and east as you ride from Chiang Mai down to Sukhothai, Nakorn Sawan, and Ayutthaya before ending in Bangkok. All the rides are point to point, and there is only one transfer to avoid the worst of Bangkok traffic. The riding days are not overly long, and you won't be dragged out of bed at dawn. But you will ride every day, and some of the rides are definitely tough.

The trip is fully supported, and your guide’s expert knowledge of the area and terrain means that you always know what is coming up in terms of distance and difficulty. This makes a tremendous difference, as does the constant supply of cold drinks and fresh fruit.

Suitability: Fitness, of course, will be a huge asset, but as the tour is fully supported, the bus is always close at hand.

Biking Conditions: You can expect a few tough rides due to the daily distances, but they will all be on tarmac. There are some climbs in the first few days, after that the route is predominantly flat all the way to Bangkok.

A helmet is required to be worn on all biking activities and is non-negotiable. If you do not wear a helmet you won't be allowed to cycle.

The tour leader is trained in first aid and emergency rescue. But to a large degree, riders must be responsible for their own safety during the tour. It is therefore compulsory that you take out travel insurance that will cover  you for a cycling tour.

The tour starts in Chiang Mai, fly in to Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX).
The tour ends in Bangkok, fly out of Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK).

You are not required to pay a surcharge for travelling alone. The tour operator will arrange for you to share accommodation with another traveller of the same gender. If you cannot be matched, they will provide a single room at no extra charge. If you prefer not to share, a single supplement is payable to guarantee your own room.

Yes, if you're hiring a bike from the operator, a complimentary helmet is provided, although you are welcome to bring your own if you wish.