Friday, May 18, 2012

Biking Phnom Penh to Angkor Wat

Biking Phnom Penh to Angkor Wat

24Destinations: e transfer from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap, our base as we spend three days exploring the amazing Angkor complex and surrounding area. An unparalleled wonder of the world, built over seven centuries ago at the height of the Khmer civilization, we cycle around the area exploring the countryside and various temples, highlights of which include The Bayon, Ta Prohm, the fortified City of Angkor Thom and the breathtaking Angkor Wat.
Highlights
   Beautiful cycling roads
   Impressive Angkor temples
   Boat trip cross Tonle Sap Lake

Detail Itinerary
Day 1: Phnom Penh – Kampong Chnang
Pick up at your hotel at 8:00am. Today we head north on National road N5 via the ancient Japanese bridge
and start traveling through the Cambodian countryside. You will share the road with light local traffic and get a good sense of what Cambodian transportation actually is. After 12Km you get to Prek Phnov and at the junction we left turn to unpaved roads passing local villages and rice fields. We pass the ancient capital of Udong where Udong Mountain is still home to many of the old Royal Palaces. We pay a visit to one of the remaining stupa’s and after a visit we will ride on the paved road heading north-west to Kampong Chnang.
Kampong Chhnang is the provincial capital of the province with the same name. The Tonle Sap River passes by Kampong Chhnang and the floating village is an attraction itself. It is located 91 km North of Phnom Penh. The area is scenic and if you cross the river you will find several ancient temples from the Chenla period, such as Samrong Sen and Prasat Prah Srey. You’ll get great views of the countryside and for sure will meet hordes of people welcoming you with a broad smile and a “Hello Mr.!” quote. Check in hotel and have dinner at local restaurant. Overnight in Kampong Chnang.
Summary
Biking: 91km, smooth paved road
Meals:   Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Kampong Chnang
Day 2: Kampong Chnang – Siem Reap
This morning you will start with a transfer by private boat to Siem Reap crossing the immense Tonle Sap Lake. The Tonle Sap Lake is the beating heart of Cambodia and nearly half of the Cambodians live from this lake. It’s the largest fresh water lake in South East Asia and its biodiversity has put the lake on the ecological 7 wonders of the world. The transfer takes about 4 hours. Upon arrival in Siem Reap we pass the floating village of Chhong Kneas. This large sized village is a bustling trade centre for fish, other lake "products" and tourism. The arrival will definitely one you will never forget. We cycle the 12km into town and settle in our hotel. A lunch will give us the power we need in order to explore the world largest heritage site: Angkor Wat. We will cycle towards a small but very significant temple called Banteay Srey. This temple is best preserved and its carvings and painting are remarkable. The road leading there passes through the Angkor Area and you get a glimpse of the massive complexes that were built between the 11th and 13th century. We continue the 25km to Banteay Srey through pretty countryside over a good and paved road. The late afternoon sun will only contribute to the beauty of the pink stone walls and towers of Banteay Srey. After our visit we cycle back towards Angkor Wat where a nice surprise awaits us. Back to the hotel. Dinner in local restaurant. Overnight in hotel in Siem Riep.
Summary
Biking:   70km, smooth paved road
Meals:   Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Siem Riep
Day 3: Full day in Angkor Wat by cycling
If you want to this morning you can ask our tour guide to arrange a sunrise visit to the temples of Angkor to give you the opportunity see the ruins in all their splendor. Angkor Wat itself is just one of the many temples in the region but is one of the best preserved and most impressive. It is worth climbing the remarkably steep and narrow steps of the central spire for the view over the whole temple surrounded by jungle. Angkor Thom, is a fascinating ruin featuring many mysterious giant carved faces and some incredible wall carvings, and is one of the most remarkable sights in the area. Also not to be missed is the temple of Ta Prohm, which has been left to be reclaimed by nature and features incredible tree roots breaking through the stone carvings and walls, a fascinating tribute to the power of nature over man and an experience reminiscent of "Indiana Jones" and "Tomb Raider". Back to Siem Riep. Tour finishes.
Summary
Biking:   25km, smooth paved road
Meals:   Breakfast, Lunch
Note on client safety
We reserve the right to deviate from this itinerary for any reasons, including road and weather conditions, frequency of visits to a village, or for any other factor which may influence client safety.

To get more informations about the trip, please take a look to this link:
Vietnam Bike Tours - http://www.vietnambiketours.asia
Premiere custom bike tours for private & group in Vietnam & beyond!



Bicycle from Yangon to Bagan

Bicycle from Yangon to Bagan

bicycle-from-yangon-to-bagan 1Destinations: Though it is famed for its regal history, unique culture and magnificent temples, Myanmar remains one of the least visited countries in Southeast Asia. Come discover this secretive land for yourself on a thrilling bicycle journey that will take you from the former royal capital of Mandalay to the temple-dotted landscape of Bagan. Along the way, you'll get a glimpse at the real face of Burma, as you cycle through rural countryside, sample flavourful regional cuisine, and chat with local traders, farmers, and artisans.
Touch down in Yangon, a riverside city that teems with a diverse population of Burmese, Indian and Chinese inhabitants. Enjoy a day rummaging for souvenirs at Scott Market, sip strong tea in a street-side cafe, or stand in awe as the sun strikes the gold-leaf covered Shwegadon pagoda.
A flight north will transport you to Mandalay, the regal former capital of 19th Century Burma where your cycling journey begins. Slip away from the main avenues to discover the city's hidden gems- from a goldleaf workshop where the traditional craft is still practiced, to the breathtaking Mahamuni Pagoda. Fall into the pace of life along the Irrawaddy River as you cycle out of the city to visit ancient cities, quiet village shrines and the world's longest teak bridge.
Depart from Mandalay on bike as you head into the Chindwin Valley, a place of deep jungles and lofty mountains. Visit the villages of Myitche and Monya, filled with glittering temples in whose shadows the farmers gather to sell their produce.
Continue your journey down the mighty Irrawaddy river to the plains of Bagan. See what life is like for the city's inhabitants as you join in the haggling at the Nyaung Oo Market and peek into a lacquer ware workshop. Then head out of the city, to bike through verdant plains among dozens of gracious stupas and pagodas.
Detail Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrive Yangon (L,D)
Upon your arrival at the Yangon airport, you'll be welcomed by your Green Trail Tours guide, and transferred to your hotel. You'll have the day on your own, to discover this fascinating multicultural city however you'd like, whether browsing at the market or sipping coffee in a Chinatown cafe.
Day 2 - Yangon - Mandalay (B,L,D)
Depart early from Yangon on a morning flight to Mandalay, the royal capital of old Burma. You'll be welcomed at the airport and have a day to explore the city as you wish. Visit the delicate teak temple of Shwenandaw, the massive marble slabs at Kuthodaw Pagoda, or take in the local atmosphere as you wander alongside the moat that surrounds the palace of this regal city. Overnight in Mandalay.
Day 3 - Mandalay - Amarapura - Mandalay (B,L,D)
You'll be climbing onto your bike this morning and heading out of Mandalay to the nearby town of Amarapura. After crossing the longest teak bridge in the world, ride further to the Mingun, whose enchanting temple ruins are situated amongst peaceful villages. A languid boat ride down the Irrawaddy River will take you back to Mandalay, where you'll get back on your bike for a ride to a goldleaf workshop, Mahamuni Pagoda, and Mandalay Hill.Overnight in Mandalay.
Day 4 - Mandalay - Sagaing - Monywa (B,L,D)
Continue your adventure this morning as you set off on your bike through the Chindwin Valley to the riverside town of Monywa. A typical Burmese town, Monywa is a major trading centre for local farmers. There, you'll visit the Thanbokde Pagoda, where you'll gaze at its 6,000 Buddha images, and the Boddhi-tataung Pagoda, home to a grove of ancient banyan trees. Overnight in Monywa
Day 5 - Monywa - Pakkoku - Bagan (B,L,D)
After breakfast, bike to Myitche, a small hamlet where local handicrafts are produced. Learn about Myanmar's cottage industries as you witness woven baskets, Burmese slippers, and paper-mache animals being crafted. Continue on to Pakkoku where you will catch a private boat and traverse the Irrawaddy River downstream to Bagan, just under 50 kilometres away. Overnight in Bagan.
Day 6 - Bagan (B,L,D)
Prepare to be astounded by Bagan, a grassy plain scattered with pagodas. A full day of cycling will take you to the city's most fascinating sites, including the teeming Nyaung Oo Market, the glittering Shwezigon Pagoda, and the atmospheric cave temple of Wetkyi-In Gubyaukgyi. In the afternoon, you'll peek into a traditional workshop to observe how lacquer ware is made, then visit the architecturally magnificent monastery of Ananda as the sun is setting. Overnight in Bagan.
Day 7 - Bagan - Mt Popa - Bagan (B,L,D)
After breakfast, you'll cycle through groves of palm trees, where men climb the soaring trunks to collect juice to make liquor. Your destination is Mount Popa, home to Myanmar's spirts, the Nats, and along the way you will venture through villages and scenic countryside perfect for taking photos. Upon arrival at Mount Popa, climb to the top of this former volcanic peak and learn about the religious customs at the spirits' shrine. After enjoying the commanding view from the top, return down for a road transfer back to Bagan. Overnight in Bagan.
Day 8 - Bagan - Yangon (B,L,D)
Your last day of cycling takes you around more of Bagan's neighbouring towns. As you pass through the villages of Myinkaba and Minnanthu you'll get a glimpse into an artisan's workshop, visit several local temples, and continue across the plains. These rarely visited towns are home to some of the most unusual temples in Myanmar. In the late afternoon, return to Bagan for your flight to Yangon. Overnight in Yangon.
Day 9 - DEPART YANGON (B)
After breakfast, enjoy the day free at your leisure until it is time for your departure flight. We will transfer to the airport, and wish you farewell.

To get more informations about the trip, please take a look to this link:
Vietnam Bike Tours - http://www.vietnambiketours.asia
Premiere custom bike tours for private & group in Vietnam & beyond!

Saturday, May 12, 2012

Vietnam Spice Road Cycling Tour

Vietnam Spice Road Cycling Tour

Detail Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Hanoi
You will be met on arrival and transfered to the hotel. There is no itinerary planned for today but we will meet at night for a quick briefing before heading out for an evening dinner at one of Hanoi's fine Vietnamese restaurants.
Day 2: Depart Hanoi to Hue
Today we have the entire day to relax and see the sights of Hanoi. In the evening we catch the Reunification Express train to Hue.
Day 3: Hue
We arrive in Hue in the morning and meet with our crew. Here we fitted to our bicycles and equipment. In the afternoon we take a short ride to Tu Duc's tomb.
Day 4: Hue - Hoi An
The morning is spent sightseeing on our bikes around Hue. Time permitting, we will visit the Citadel and the Thien Mu Pagoda. We then bus to Da Nang before cycling on to the World Heritage town of Hoi An.
Day 5: Hoi An
A free day to explore this fascinating riverside town. Hoi An is a charming, quaint fishing town that can easily be explored on foot (or bicycle!). Some of its many attractions include the Chinese Assembly Halls, built between the 17th & 19th centuries for the large Chinese merchant population. Also worth visiting are the ancient ancestral homes, some of which have been occupied by the same family for 15 generations. Hoi An is also famed for its tailor shops. This stems from the time when the town was a major stop along the Silk Road. The beautiful Cua Dai beach is 4km from town and makes for a great cycle destination.
Day 6: Hoi An - Quy Nhon
We bus to Quang Ngai before cycling 10 kms into the district of Song My (or the better known hamlet of My Lai). Here we will visit a memorial for the villagers who died in during the War. The My Lai site is in a small rural settlement, surrounded by simple thatched huts, quilted rice paddies and farmers with conical hats going about their day to day routines. After visiting the memorial and museum we ride back to our bus and then drive to Qui Nhon
Day 7: Quy Nhon to Pleiku (via An Khe)
A more challenging day as we head inland off Highway 1 and tackle the uphill road on Highway 19. We will part-cycle this, over a distance of 186 kms before reaching Pleiku (alt. 785m). Pleiku is located in the Truong Son mountain range (running through the length of the country) which is home to some of Vietnam's 54 hill-tribe minority groups, known as Montagnards (French collective name for "mountain people"). The town has a distinctive Russian architectural influence from Russian aid workers after the war.
Day 8: Pleiku - Buon Ma Thuot
Today's part- cycle is on an excellent road, Highway 14, taking in 197kms of undulating and scenic uplands. We pass by coffee plantations and national parks on our way to the largest town in the Western Highlands, and the capital of Dac Lac Province.
Day 9: Buon Ma Thuot - Nha Trang
Today part-cycle covers 194kms on Highway 28 and whilst undulating is mostly downhill towards the coast and Nha Trang. We may see wild elephants as we pass through more minority hamlets on our way to the kilometres of untouched beaches, great climate and islands to explore which have made Nha Trang a popular Vietnamese resort. The accommodation for the next 2 nights is situated high on the headland overlooking the islands and equipped with its own private beach. The atmosphere almost resembles that of a palatial villa in Tuscany it is no wonder that it was a preferred summer respite for Bao Dai , Vietnam's last ruling monarch.
Day 10: Nha Trang
A cycle-free day to enjoy the clear blue waters and relaxed ambience of Nha Trang. We take a local boat to one of the nearby islands to visit a beautiful beach where you may relax, swim, enjoy a cool beer or indulge in a massage. Then after returning to Nha Trang, the afternoon is free to enjoy at your leisure.
Day 11: Nha Trang - Dalat
We begin today driving a short distance before continuing on bike for the next 95kms to Phan Rang. The cycling is excellent, made easier by the strong tail winds and well maintained roads. After lunch we then start the bus ride to Dalat where you will be rewarded with superb views over the delta and the South China Sea. Dalat is situated at a height of 1500 metres and has a pleasant cool climate.
Day 12: Dalat
Dalat is set in the mountain region north of Ho Chi Minh City and is a renowned retreat for poets and artists. The town features French provincial villas and lush green hills. This morning we'll visit King Bao Dai's Summer Palace and experience some of the spectacular vantage points around Dalat's hilly countryside. Close to our hotel there are a number of small French style cafes which boast the best coffee in Vietnam and are a good place to relax and watch the passing parade. This afternoon can be spent relaxing, exploring the lake area or seeking out some of the impressive French architecture throughout the town.
Day 13: Dalat to Ho Chi Minh City by support vehicle
After breakfast we drive south east for 7 hours (approx 350kms) to Ho Chi Minh City. On the way we pass small hamlets as well as tea, coffee cashew nut, rubber and tobacco plantations.
Day 14: Ho Chi Minh City - Cu Chi Tunnels
This morning, we travel to the remarkable Cu Chi tunnels, home to 5,000 VC troops during the War. In the afternoon, we walk through the heart of the city pass some of Ho Chi Minh's famous sites; the French colonial Town Hall, the Rex Hotel, Notre Dame Cathedral, the former U.S. embassy, the President's Palace (also known as the Reunification Palace) and make an optional visit to the War Crimes Museum. Tonight we join our Vietnamese guide for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 15: Depart Ho Chi Minh City
Trip will conclude after breakfast.

http://www.vietnambiketours.asia/en/vietnam-bike-tours/cycling-from-ha-noi/109-15-19-days/542-vietnam-spice-road-cycling-tour.html

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Friday, May 11, 2012

Cycling Tours From Hanoi Vietnam To Luang Prabang Laos

CyclingTours From Hanoi Vietnam To Luang Prabang Laos
Hi Everyone. Here’s a trip update about our latest leg of our journey; Bicycling all the way from Ha Noi, Vietnam, to Luang Prabang, Laos. It was about 800 km long. Yes, kilometers. Since we are in Asia, everything is in the metric system, and we are becoming very adept at measuring distances in k’s and temperature in degrees Celcius. You will be happy to know, that we still love bikes, and are having the time of our lives riding them!!
After navigating a very polluted, dusty, heavily overloaded major freeway out of Ha Noi for half a day we started to ascend into the foothills. Then we further ascended into the mountains. And boy were we shocked, at how big the mountains here are!! Mountains in this region aren’t rolling and don’t have easy grades, they are straight up for 30 kms and then straight down for 30 kms. This means it takes half a day to climb not very far, then half an hour to descend the same distance.
It took 3 days to get to the border of Laos. A very smooth border crossing despite what we had been told awaited us early in the morning. Both sides, Vietnam and Laos, were very friendly and efficient. It took about an hour to get across, although we had to walk our bikes. No riding across borders allowed I suppose.
Once in Laos, we were unprepared and shocked by the cold weather. We had a 7 day stretch without seeing the sun. We biked in the clouds every day and were so cold at night. We also didn’t shower because out here in rural Laos there’s no hot water in the showers, and we couldn’t bring ourselves to be out of clothes for very long!!
Day in day out, cold weather. But this did not shake our spirits. Perseverence and a little pushing of the other person in times of need helped get us on through the cold. We were rewarded after the week on a long uphill slug through  the clouds when we actually climbed higher then the clouds to find the sun. And it was absolutely amazing. Looking out at the surrounding mountain peaks, they stuck out of the clouds like islands in the ocean.
Some mornings we hit the local outdoor market for sticky rice and fried delicious things to fuel our fire. Every day we eat noodle soup at some point. And we love it!!
We did some cultural activities in Sam Neua and Phonesavanh. From Sam Neua, we checked out the caves in Vieng Xai that housed the leaders of the Laos Communist Liberation Front during the “Secret War”. For those of you, like both of us, who have never heard of this, it occured in the 60′s and 70′s after the signing of the Geneva Accord in Vietnam where USA pledged to no longer drop bombs on Indochina,The CIA secretly dropped more bombs on Laos then any country in the world has ever experienced.  It was shocking to learn, and we’ve had many good converstaions with people from all over the world about this topic. UXO’s or unexploded ordnance which are bombs that are left over (unexploded as you probably gathered) still plague the people of Lao on a daily basis.  Most of these bombs are cluster bombs which are about the size and shape of tennis balls and are still scattered throughout the country side.  There are about 100,000 injuries every year, 30% of which among children, with most leading to the loss of limbs and death.  Organizations such as MAG (Mines Advisory Group) are working with villages to clear bombs which therefore opens more safe land to farming and are also working to educate children in creative ways about the importance of staying away from and reporting the UXO’s.
The caves were blasted with dynamite to open them up, and built up to accommodate the residents. There are a series of over 20 caves of varying sizes and functions including meeting places, hospitals, residences, and army barracks. It was a full functioning city and the capitol of the communists during this era. The tour was extraordinary complete with guide and audio book and headphones. Very informative.
Another few days biking and we arrived in Phonesavanh for another day off and some more culture. The Plain of Jars is a collection of different sites in this region that contain stone jars of multiple sizes and shapes. There is no explanation of why exactly they are there or who made them, but I can sense a Masters Thesis for anyone whose curiosity is sparked by this really cool site.
We met an awesome German man named Giovanni who we rode bikes with for a couple days and shared stories over a delicious dinner at a point point restaurant. He was a great addition to the team and we were sad to part ways.
After another couple days on the road, and some tough climbing we arrived in the tourist town of Luang Prabang to treat ourselves to some western amenities like hot coffee and bagels. There are many temples and stuppas in this town and we hung out and recovered from one amazing route of bike touring!!
Two weeks on the bikes with a couple layover days for some cultural activities and we are truly feeling the essence of bike touring. This being my first major bike tour and Laurels second, and both of our first international bike tour, we are learning so much. Learning about ourselves, us together, the world, the universe!!  Gaining knowledge daily from those around us and the experiences that we share together.

Laos to Vietnam Mountain Bike Tour

Laos to Vietnam Mountain Bike Tour 4Destinations: Explore the most secret areas of Laos and Vietnam with a mountain bike between the two heritage towns Luang Prabang and Hanoi...Travel with your mountain bike from Laos to Vietnam on less traveled roads. this is probably the best border crossing ride for cyclists, who enjoy cycling in mountainous surroundings. The ever changing and often spectacular landscapes and multi diversity in ethnic groups makes every day different. Luang Prabang, Dien Bien Phu and Hanoi are the cultural historical highlights of this tour
Starting in the World Heritage town of Luang Prabang and ending in the vibrant city Hanoi , this is probably the best border crossing ride for cyclists who enjoy cycling in mountainous surroundings. The ever changing and often spectacular landscape and multi diversity in ethnic groups makes every day different. Luang Prabang, Dien Bien Phu and Hanoi are the cultural historical highlights of this tour. Other highlights are a boat ride on the Nam Ou river in Laos and a visit to Cuc Phuong National Park in Vietnam .

Biking from Luang Prabang to Hanoi

Biking from Luang Prabang to Hanoi 7Destinations: Starting in the World Heritage town of Luang Prabang and ending in the vibrant city Hanoi, this is probably the best border crossing ride for
cyclists, who enjoy cycling in mountainous surroundings. The ever changing and often spectacular landscapes and multi diversity in ethnic groups makes every day different. Luang Prabang, Dien Bien Phu and Hanoi are the cultural historical highlights of this tour. Other highlights are a boat ride on the Nam Ou River in Laos and a visit to Cuc Phuong National Park in Vietnam.

Cycling from Luang Prabang to Hanoi

cycling-from-luang-prabang-to-hanoi 1Destinations: This exceptional, fully supported cycling odyssey takes us through some of the most stunning landscapes and culturally significant parts of Laos then over the border for a richly rewarding taste of Vietnam. We commence cycling on the banks of the Mekong river in the World Heritage listed town of Luang Prabang with its exquisite golden temples and waterfalls. We continue through rolling mountain scenery to Nong Khiew then travel by boat to the village.
of Ban Sopjam where we stay with the village headman. Travelling northeast we cycle to the intriguing Vieng Say Caves where the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party lived during the Secret War. Cycling to the Vietnamese border we cross over to explore the beautiful valley of Mai Chau and its many ethnic minority villages before completing our adventure in the bustling northern capital of Hanoi.

Expedition Cycling from Laos to Vietnam

expedition-cycling-from-laos-to-vietnam 1Destinations: Join us on one of the best adventures left in SE Asia as we ride from the beautiful Luang Prabang in Laos through to Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, traveling up rivers and over the mountains through a remote corner of Asia. We start in World Heritage listed Luang Prabang with its French architecture, abundant temples and beautiful natural surrounds.
Take a boat up the Mekong and Nam Ou rivers before cycling through the remote and densely forested areas of northern Laos meeting its charming inhabitants. Forge your way through the Vietnamese mountains, stopping to learn about the events of the Indochina War. Meet the minority hill tribes of this area and learn about their history and traditions. Finish the adventure in vibrant Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam.

Laos and Cambodia Cycling from Luang Prabang to Angkor

laos-and-cambodia-cycling-from-luang-prabang-to-angkor 1Destinations: This Laos and Cambodia Cycling Tours combines the cultural interests of the two countries, starting from the Laos World Heritage Site Luang Prbang to Cambodia World Heritage Site of Angkor Complex. This cycling tour take you through Laos from North to South via the capital Vientiane. From Vientiane to Pakse there is not much interest to see and it is also a long way to cycle. So we recommend to take the flight to Pakse. Then we cycle follow the Mekong River to Cambodia. The cycling route we have taken are interesting with nice scenery of the 4 Thousand Islands. After that, we cross the border to Cambodia by bike and the visa is issued at the border. The visa costs USD20, please take 1 photo passport size.
In Cambodia, we continue to cycle along the Mekong River to see the endangered Irrawady Dolphines and experience the cycling at the highland Mondulkiri to visit the minority hill trbie people before heading to Angkor following the Mekong River. We cycle 1,237km on mix tarmac road and dirt road. Through our research, we have known many enjoyable and fun off roads which we use for this trip. However, there are still a few tarmac roads which we cannot avoid but the sealed roads we use more quiet and safe to cycle.

Saturday, May 5, 2012

Sa Pa Heavens Gate Biking Tour

Sa Pa Heavens Gate Biking Tour

Sapa 15Destinations: This wonderful itinerary takes you over the Tram Tom, or Heaven's Gate Pass to explore the other side of Fansipan and the Hoang Lien Mountain Range. Often when Sa Pa is shrouded in cloud and fog, this side is clear and blue. The newly paved road descends 26Kms through one of the most picturesque and inspiring valleys in the North where you'll glide down through the fresh mountain air to the Binh Lu Junction. Turning off this main road will add a moderate challenge to your adventure. The sometimes rocky road meanders along the base of the mountain range past old growth forest and through the villages of Thai, H'mong and Lu ethnic minorities. The area sees few tourists, so expect plenty of curious faces and smiling children shouting 'Hello!' as you stop to meet the locals along the way.

Detail Itinerary
Day1: Hanoi - Lao Cai
8:30pm Depart from Hotel by private coach to Rail way station and catch the 10:00pm night train to Lao Cai (soft sleeper with aircon), arrive 5:30 or 6:00am
Day 2 (B - L-D): Lao cai - Sapa - Than Thuoc
The bus ride up the mountain to Sa Pa takes a little over an hour, where you'll stop for breakfast before gearing up for your exciting ride. It's a tough climb out of Sa Pa to Heaven's gate, so your support vehicle will transfer you out to a starting point at the 'Silver Waterfall'. Then it's a 3Km climb up the highest mountain pass in Indochina where you'll stop to marvel at the spectacular view of Hoang Lien mountains before free-wheeling down 26km to Binh Lu Junction. Heading off the main road, its 20kms of sometimes rocky road to Than Thuoc, a charming little tea town where you'll spend the night in a local guesthouse.
***Note: The guest house in Than Thuoc is very basic but clean. Green Trail Tours is currently making arrangements for a home stay in a local village.
Day 3 (B-L-D): Than Thuoc - Than Uyen
After breakfast, your support vehicle will transfer you up a steep mountain pass to the starting point where you'll glide down 20kms to Than Uyen through valleys where the old growth forest, tea plantations and verdant rice paddies surround you during your ride. After lunch in Than Uyen, you'll have a wonderful afternoon as you explore some single track trails to visit local minority villages, including the interesting Lu people with their distinctively black teeth. Arrive back in Than Uyen for dinner and overnight in the local guesthouse.
Day 4 (B-L-D): Than Uyen - Lao Cai - Hanoi
After a good breakfast, ride 40kms around the other side of the stunning Muong Kim valley with time for lots of stops to take pictures of the local hill tribe people and the stunning scenery there. Arrive in Van Ban for a late lunch then hop on the minivan to drive back to Lao Cai. In Lao Cai you'll be able to have a refreshing shower before sitting down to a dinner of local Vietnamese food. Night Train back to Ha Noi. Trip ends 5:30am at Ha Noi Station.



Sapa Vietnam Mountain Bicycle Tour Visit Muong Hoa valley Ethnic village Su Pan Thanh Phu Sin Chai

Sapa Vietnam Mountain Bicycle Tour Visit Muong Hoa valley Ethnic village Su Pan Thanh Phu Sin Chai

laocai to bacha 4Destinations: On this trip, the ride takes you along Muong Hoa valley and then deep into Ban Ho valley, which is home to Tay, Red Dao minorities.
You will enjoy beautiful landscape, meet friendly local people and spend one night in Topas bamboo huts, which can be a unique experience that you have ever had.



Detail Itinerary
Day 01: Hanoi – Laocai. Overnight train.
20:00, you will be met up by Green Trail Tours guide, driver at your hotel lobby (in Hanoi) and transferred to Hanoi
Railway Station for overnight train to Sapa. Train??? Departure at 21:00 (TBA).
Day 02: Arrive early morning Laocai. Transfer to Sapa. Cycling. Dinner and homestay (B/L/D).
Arrive at Laocai Railway Station at around 6:00am in the morning. You will be greeted by another Lotussia Travel guide, driver and transferred to Sapa.
After a short rest and breakfast in a local restaurant in town, cycle downhill on a windy road, which goes along Muong Hoa valley. The valley is home to Black Hmong, Giay and Red Dao minorities. From the road you will have many opportunities to enjoy amazing scenery of mountains and rice paddy terraces as far as the eyes can see. After a short break in Su Pan, you will cycle downhill until you reach Thanh Phu village of Tay minority. Here you stop for lunch in a traditional Tay house. After lunch, your ride will be mostly uphill; you head toward Sin Chai village of Red Dao minority. Where you will stay overnight in the red Dao family.
Day 03: Cycling. Transfer back to Laocai. Overnight train to Hanoi (B,L).
Today’s ride will be a little softer. You will pass by some tinny villages. You can stop by a local school and give children some small gifts such as pens or books. You will also be able to meet Xa Pho minority, one of the smallest ethnic group, which cannot be found in other areas. You will pass by Thanh Phu and continue to Ban Ho. In Ban Ho you will enjoy lunch in a local house. After lunch, you will take a short walk to the nearby river, where you will be able to have a swim. You can take a break and have a cup of tea in a Tay
house before you get on a car for a journey back to Sapa and then Laocai. Take the overnight train back to Hanoi. Train??? Departure at 20:30 (TBA).
Day 04: Arrive Hanoi early morning. Pickup at Hanoi Railway Station & transfer to your hotel. End tour.
Arrive in Hanoi Railway Station at 4:30am (TBA), you will be picked up by Green Trail tours guide, driver and transferred to your hotel in town (in Hanoi). End tour.

http://www.vietnambiketours.asia/en/vietnam-bike-tours/cycling-from-sapa/115-04-days/443-sapa-vietnam-mountain-bicycle-tour-visit-muong-hoa-valley-ethnic-village-su-pan-thanh-phu-sin-chai.html 

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Bac Ha and Coc Ly Biking Tour

Bac Ha and Coc Ly Biking Tour

Sapa 17Destinations: This amazing mountain biking trip takes you along scenic, winding roads and trails to two of the regions most diverse and colourful hill tribe markets, and, with a night in the home of the warm, friendly Tay hill tribe, you'll be rewarded with an interactive experience that'll be the highlight of your time here. Be sure to indulge your curiosity as you explore the deep history and rich culture of these truly fascinating ethnic minority people!

Detail Itinerary
Day1:Hanoi - Lao Cai
8:30pm Depart from Hotel by private coach to Rail way station and catch the 10:00pm night train to Lao Cai (soft sleeper with aircon), arrive 5:30 or 6:00am
Day2: (B-L-D) Lao Cai - Bac Ha
Have breakfast in a local restaurant then drive 82km (1.5hrs) through the steep Bac Ha Mountains. Check in to your hotel then walk to explore the famous Bac Ha market. The sights, sounds and smells in this bustling hill tribe market are a barrage for the senses! Be sure to try the local corn whiskey that Bac Ha is so famous for! After lunch you'll do an 8Km loop around Bac Ha to visit the locals, stopping in Ban Pho village, then you'll hit a single trail and dirt road winding thru plum gardens, rice fields, past local homes and inhabitants of the villages surrounding Bac Ha. Overnight in your Hotel in Bac Ha.
Day3: (B-L-D) Bac Ha Biking
After breakfast, visit the impressive house of the former H'mong King before embarking on a 12km ride to Lung Phin village, home of Flower H'mong and Phu La people. The ride is on sealed road and there is a 3km steep climb that you can ride or drive, depending on your energy level! After a half hour visit with a local family, you can relax and glide the 12km back to Bac Ha. Following lunch in your hotel, you'll check out and start riding out of town and down the stunning mountain road 24km to Bao Nhai Bridge. Board a long boat for a 1.5hr trip up the Chay River, relax and take in the spectacular scenery of the Chay River Valley. Head back down river (1hr) to Trung Do village in a Tay Hamlet. You'll enjoy dinner and the warm hospitality of your Tay hosts during this wonderful home stay experience.
Day4: (B-L-D) Bac Ha - Hanoi
Following breakfast, spend an hour walking around the hamlet to meet the locals and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. Board your support vehicle and drive from Trung Do to Coc Ly Black Dzao village to explore this colourful market. Here you'll witness Flower H'mong, Black Dzao, Tay and Nung Hill Tribes gathering in this important social and economic event. After an hour and half you'll gear up and ride out the rolling rocky road 18km to the main road. Stop for a lunch of local Vietnamese food then, depending on your energy level, drive or ride the sealed road 38km back to Lao Cai. If time permits you may visit the beautiful Upper Temple with its impressive 500+ year old Banyan tree. You'll be able to shower in Lao Cai before sitting down to dinner. Night train back to Ha Noi. Tour ends 5:30am Ha Noi Station

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