Setting out to cycle the backroads of Vietnam

On the road in Vietnam | Richard I'Anson

Cycling the back roads of Vietnam | Lachlan Gardiner

Epworth: Vietnam Cycle Challenge 2026

Explore southern Vietnam’s vibrant contrasts on a self-guided ride - independent and immersive

8 Days from

$ USD

Trip Code: EWV

View dates to Book Essential Information

Extra trip options & supplements

*Prices listed are per person

E-bike Upgrade

$170 USD

Single Supplement

$320 USD

Flight Nha Trang–Saigon & overnight hotel Saigon, includes transfers, flight, and Saigon accommodation (twin share)

$320 USD

Fundraising target

$1670 USD

Duration

8 Days

Activities

6-days cycling

Accommodation

7-nights 4-5 star hotels

Meals

3 Dinners
6 Lunches
7 Breakfasts

Difficulty Grading

5 / 10

Moderate

Trip highlights

Cycle from vibrant Ho Chi Minh City to the coast of Nha Trang
Ride through the rice fields of the Mekong Delta and peaceful backroads
Traverse jungle trails and mountain passes to the cool hills of Da Lat
Experience diverse landscapes; from tropical lowlands to misty highlands
Immerse yourself in local culture, village life, and warm hospitality
Enjoy a fully supported and guided cycling experience
Travel alongside an Epworth representative

Overview

Uncover a different side of Vietnam as you cycle from the vibrant streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the cool, misty hills of the Central Highlands and the stunning coast of Nha Trang. This unforgettable journey takes you beyond the tourist trail, through serene lakes, lush rice fields, jungle trails, and vibrant farmlands rich in culture and natural beauty.

Ride past rubber plantations, fruit orchards, and tea hills, experience warm local hospitality in small farming villages, and finish in Da Lat — a highland town known for its fresh mountain air, flower gardens, and French-inspired charm. With its cooler climate and relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect reward after several days in the saddle.

Capturing the true spirit of southern Vietnam, this adventure offers ever-changing landscapes, authentic local encounters, and the pure joy of cycling — all in support of Epworth’s vital work. The route includes some climbs but is achievable for most regular cyclists, with daily distances of 30–65km on quiet, scenic backroads.

Itinerary

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On arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel, conveniently located for easy access to many of the city’s cultural and historical sites. After check-in, the day is at leisure. You may wish to explore the local neighbourhood on foot or visit nearby landmarks such as Ben Thanh Market, the War Remnants Museum, or Notre-Dame Cathedral. Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is a vibrant metropolis where French colonial architecture, lively street life, and modern development blend to create a dynamic introduction to Vietnam. Later in the afternoon, you will be collected from the hotel and transferred to the bike garage to meet your local support team for a trip briefing and bike fitting. Evening at leisure. Overnight: The Odys Hotel

Meals: L

Your adventure begins at 7:30am at your hotel. After a short transfer south of the city, we’ll stop at a local café where the team ensures everyone is fully prepared for the first ride. Cycle along quiet dirt paths through lush rice paddies, coconut groves, and local villages, where friendly farmers greet you from the fields. The route is mostly flat, offering a gentle introduction to southern Vietnam’s countryside. Pause for a refreshing fruit and water stop before continuing along shaded rural roads. Riders wishing to rest can hop into the support van for the final leg. The ride concludes at a local ferry crossing to a small river island for a home-style Mekong lunch made with fresh, local ingredients — a true taste of Delta hospitality. After lunch, return to Saigon by private vehicle, arriving at your hotel around 6:00 PM, ready to relax and celebrate the start of your southern Vietnam adventure. Cycling: Approx. 38km Overnight: The Odys Hotel

Meals: B,L

After breakfast, we leave the bustling streets of Saigon behind and head north toward Cát Tiên National Park, one of Vietnam’s most biodiverse nature reserves. Once outside the city, the ride takes us along quiet country backroads, passing small farms, local markets, and rubber plantations — a landscape that feels worlds away from urban Vietnam. Our cycling route winds through peaceful villages and lush greenery, offering plenty of opportunities to stop for photos or chat with locals. The final stretch leads us toward the edge of Cát Tiên, where the dense jungle begins to rise in the distance. The terrain gradually ascends, signaling our approach to the southern highlands. Upon arrival at Cát Tiên National Park, you'll find yourself surrounded by dense lowland forest, home to a rich variety of wildlife and rare bird species. Crossing the Ð?ng Nai River by ferry, we reach Green Bamboo Lodge, a cozy riverside retreat immersed in the sounds of nature. After dinner, relax by the river or join an optional night safari to spot nocturnal wildlife in the jungle. Cycling: Approx. 45km Overnight: Green Bamboo Lodge

Meals: B,L,D

Wake up to the sounds of the jungle and enjoy a relaxed breakfast by the river before beginning today’s ride. Departing from Cát Tiên National Park, we transfer out of the park, then hop on our bikes to trace winding country roads that gradually climb toward the Central Highlands. The route takes us through farmland, gentle hills, and remote villages, where locals often greet passing cyclists with a smile or wave. The terrain shifts from lowland jungle to rolling hills lined with coffee, tea, and fruit plantations, and with each kilometre, the air becomes cooler and fresher. Along the way, we pass small rural communities and roadside stalls selling local produce. The roads are peaceful and quiet, framed by lush greenery and mist-draped slopes, with wide, sweeping views of the highland landscape. The steady rhythm of cycling through this serene countryside provides a chance to soak in the natural beauty and the relaxed pace of rural Vietnam. Our ride concludes near Bao Loc, a laid-back town renowned for its tea-covered hills and nearby waterfalls. After checking in, there’s time to explore on foot, browse local markets, or simply enjoy a freshly brewed cup of locally grown tea as the sun sets over the hills. A hearty dinner and a restful evening complete a day immersed in the sights, sounds, and flavors of the highlands. Cycling: Approx. 60km Overnight: Sandal Vista Hotel or similar

Meals: B,L,D

Today’s ride takes you deeper into the Central Highlands, a region celebrated for its cool climate, rolling hills, and vibrant coffee culture. After breakfast, we set off from Bao Loc, beginning a gradual climb through pine forests, tea farms, and scenic valleys — one of the most beautiful cycling routes in southern Vietnam. The road to Da Lat features a mix of smooth ascents and gentle descents, offering plenty of panoramic views and the charm of quiet countryside. Along the way, we stop for refreshments and lunch at a local restaurant, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. In the afternoon, we arrive in Da Lat, known as the “City of Eternal Spring.” After checking in at the historic Du Parc Hotel, enjoy a relaxing evening wandering Da Lat’s colonial streets, strolling along the lakeside promenade, or browsing the lively night market. Cycling: Approx. 65km Overnight: Du Parc Hotel Dalat, Deluxe

Meals: B,L

Wake up to the cool mountain air of Da Lat and enjoy a leisurely breakfast before setting out on a scenic countryside ride around the city’s outskirts. Today’s loop explores the rolling hills, pine forests, flower farms, and coffee plantations that give Da Lat its reputation as one of Vietnam’s most charming highland towns. Along the way, we’ll visit local workshops and family-run farms showcasing the area’s famous produce — from aromatic coffee to fresh vegetables and flowers destined for markets across the country. The ride is relaxed, with plenty of photo stops and opportunities to connect with the local community and experience daily highland life. Return to the hotel by midday, leaving the afternoon free to explore Da Lat at your own pace. Stroll through the bustling market, sample local pastries, or relax by the lake and soak in the serene mountain scenery before tomorrow’s descent toward the coast. Cycling: Approx. 30km Overnight: Du Parc Hotel Dalat, Deluxe

Meals: B

Today’s ride is a spectacular finale — a 65 km descent from the highlands to the sea, one of the most breathtaking cycling routes in Vietnam. After breakfast, we leave Da Lat behind and begin our journey downhill through pine forests, waterfalls, and winding mountain roads, watching the landscape transform as the air grows warmer and the scent of the ocean drifts in. Along the way, we’ll stop for breaks and enjoy a scenic lunch amid the changing scenery, before arriving in the coastal city of Nha Trang, famed for its golden beaches and turquoise waters. Check in at your beachfront hotel and unwind by the sea after days of unforgettable riding. In the evening, we celebrate the journey with a farewell dinner by the ocean, sharing stories, laughter, and memories from this remarkable adventure — from rice fields to coffee hills, from mountains to the coast. Cycling: Approx. 65km Overnight: Navada Nha Trang

Meals: B,L,D

Enjoy more relaxed beach time in Nha Trang or return to Saigon.

Meals: B

Ready to start your adventure?

View dates to Book

What’s included?

Included

7 nights twin share at selected boutique hotels with daily breakfast
All other meals as listed
Airport to hotel transfer (if arriving on day 1 of the trip)
Private air conditioned vehicle for transfers and support
Support vehicle to carry gear, luggage, first aid
Modern mountain bikes with water cage & basic repair kit (Option to upgrade to e-bike at additional cost; subject to availability)
Cycling guides & mechanics
Water, snacks, soft drinks, fresh fruit on biking days
Cold beer at the end of each biking day
Introductory briefing and bike fitting on Day 1 of tour

Not included

International airfares
Visa fees
Travel Insurance (compulsory)
Bike Helmet (compulsory)
Meals and beverages not mentioned in the itinerary
Items of a personal nature such as laundry, phone calls, alcohol etc
Tips and gratuities
Return Transfer to airport