Cycling in the North West highlands of Mai Chau is a great way to see this fascinating and visually stunning part of Vietnam, offering both physical activity and the unique opportunity to observe a way of life that has changed little over the centuries. As we cycle we encounter Muong and White Thai inhabitants. We overnight in traditional houses allowing us to see firsthand how these minority people live. Our modern lightweight European bikes make exploring this part of the country an enjoyable and relatively easy experience and there is a support vehicle on hand if necessary.

Day 1: Hanoi – Hoa Binh – Mai Chau (Cycle 35 km)
In the morning, transfer by support vehicle to Man Duc town. You will meet with our support crew and start cycling to Mai Chau  Check into Mai Chau Lodge in the early afternoon and the rest of the day is at leisure. (L,D)
 
Day 2: Lac village – Van village (Cycle 27 km)
Today set off for Van village deep in the heart of the scenic Mai Chau valley. Your first stop is at the Ma River for lunch. After lunch cycle to some of the neighboring villages in the valley. This evening, following dinner you will be treated to some homemade rice wine! (B,L,D)

Day 3: Van village - Hanoi (Cycle 35 km)
Depart Van this morning and cycle through some beautiful countryside en route to the village of Xo before arriving back in Lac village approximately 20kms away. In Lac, have lunch before the return drive to Hanoi. (B,L)

Trip price: please enquire for availability and cost

Tour includes:

·    All accommodation at standard guest house

·    Meals as mentioned (B= Breakfast, L= Lunch, D= Dinner)

·    English speaking guide on land tour

·    Tours and transfers as mentioned by private air-conditioned vehicle

·    Sightseeing fees and permits during guided time

Tour excludes:
• Visas and airport departure tax
• Services and Meals and Drinks other not mentioned in itinerary
• Laundry, telephone calls and expenditure of a personal nature
• Tips and gratuities
• Travel Insurance (Compulsory)
• Pre and post trip accommodation in Hanoi
• Helmet

Joining Instructions
Guide will meet you at the hotel in Hanoi at 08.00AM

Transport
Air conditioned bus, bike

What to take
We suggest a main backpack with a reasonable daypack for any treks and day tours. Large suitcases are not advisable.

Fitness Requirements
Although there are no specific fitness requirements, the fitter you are the more you will enjoy the trip.

The Bicycles
For this trip we use the ‘Matts Cruise 5.7’ and ‘Kalahari 500’ performance bicycles made by German cycle specialists Merida. The bicycles have 24 speeds and a lightweight steel alloy frame designed for road cycling. Other features include LRS (Low Ratio Suspension) and excellent damping capacity, both of which help to absorb vibration and shocks for a smoother, more comfortable and enjoyable ride. The bicycles are available in a number of sizes.

This is the perfect way to see Vietnam – at a nice slow pace so you can take all the sounds, smells and sights in. The team were fantastic and we loved cycling through the villages. Thanks!

Mike and Sandy Peters, USA

We very much enjoyed our cycling tour through Vietnam, especially cycling through the villages. Hanh, our group leader was very good.

Peter Hamar, Australia.