A socially-conscious 16 day epic cycle across Cambodia and Vietnam taking in the glorious sights and visiting local NGOs along the way. Get on a bicycle, off the beaten track and explore the contrast in countries between Cambodia and Vietnam. With an adventure beginning in Siem Reap, Cambodia, and finishing in Saigon, Vietnam, you can truly explore and uncover the mysteries of these two incredible countries. Get ready to cycle almost 700km across Cambodia and Vietnam. From ancient Angkor Wat to the mighty Mekong Delta, you will be taken on a journey that will push your physical limits, challenge your ethical values and completely open your mind. You are about to go on a journey that may well change your life. And the lives of others.
You’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!
With regards to the cycling, some days are 30km (18.6mi), some are 50km (31mi) and some are a little further. See itinerary for daily details. When you embark on an 85km (53mi) day, the distance can seem quite daunting. However, an early start for 7am and an ETA of 4pm arrival gives you 9 hours to get there. And two hours of extra daylight up your sleeve if needed! Travelling by bicycle is not about the destination, but the journey. You’ll stop for Khmer and Vietnamese coffees, local treats, lunch and of course, to take plenty of pictures. When you are moving, the average pace is about 15-20km (9-12mi) per hour. The small group policy means it’s easier for all the group 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 (62mi) in a day. It doesn’t mean you have to, but if time permits, 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!
The tour operator will take you on a journey to interact and connect with local grassroots 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 in a holiday that carefully balances ethical research and local impact with cycling and sight seeing.
All riders are requested to contribute a nominal sum for the purpose of a donation. Usually AU$200 per rider. During the course of the tour, you are given the chance to engage with, and learn from, local NGOs. You will 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 impact partners, the tour operator also pays each NGO for their time and resources. You will spend 1-2 hours with each NGO. The donation part is not mandatory, but it is an expectation. The tour operator wants people to be open to the idea of supporting one or more of the NGOs you will visit and learn about. If, after meeting some of the local teams and learning about their programs, the riders do not want to donate, then you are not required to. Find out more about the NGOs you'll visit on the FAQs page.
*Note that a shorter version of this trip starting in Phnom Penh is available if you have less time, see here for more information.