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PEDAL THROUGH VIETNAM
MAI CHAU  TO PU LUONG 

Key Highlights

  • Scenery rides through the rice terraces of Mai Chau Valley, and the temperate forest of Pu Luong Nature Reserve.

  • Interacting with locals of Thai and Muong ethnic minority of Vietnam

  • Visit to the UNESCO site of Trang An Landscape Complex and Hoa Lu ancient Citadel dated back to the 10th century

Eligibility

  • Rider should be able to ride 4-5 hours 

  • The participant has to be in good physical condition 

  • Should not have liver and kidney issues

  • Should not have diabetes Mellitus, Asthma, Epilepsy, Heart problems, High BP

  • No pacemaker implant

  • Riders below 15 years should have a company of a parent / guardian

  • Riders between 15-18 years can come solo with the disclaimer form signed by parent/ Guardian

Événements à venir

Overview

TOUR TYPE: Guided

REGION: Vietnam

GRADE: Moderate / Challenging 

DURATION: 5 days / 4 nights

RIDING DISTANCE:  225 Km

TOTAL ELEVATION GAIN: 2700 m

GROUP SIZE: 02 – 16 Pax 

EXPERIENCE: Regular Riders

SUITABLE FOR: 15 + Years

SEASON: April - December

MEALS: Meals veg + Non-veg (As per Itinerary)

NO OF CYCLING DAYS    : 4

Tour Starts   : Hanoi (Noi Bai International Airport - HAN)
Tour end: Hanoi (Noi Bai International Airport - HAN)
 

About the Ride

Experience the Bike and Trek Adventure, an intermediate-level tour crafted to delight in just 4 days, showcasing the breath-taking natural landscapes of Northern Vietnam.Embark from the enchanting Mai Chau Valley, where russet-hued dirt roads wind amidst vibrant emerald rice paddies, painting a picture-perfect scene. Venture further into the heart of adventure at Pu Luong Nature Reserve, an exotic haven promising an authentic jungle experience. Journey onwards to the meandering rivers of Ninh Binh, hailed as a beloved gem among Vietnamese locals, and marvel at its natural wonders.

This tour isn't just about cycling through diverse terrains; it's a cultural odyssey like no other. Encounter the unique lifestyle of the minority hill tribes, immersing yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Vietnam's cultural heritage. Perfect for avid cyclists seeking exhilarating challenges intertwined with moments of leisure immersed in local ambiance, this journey promises an unforgettable fusion of adventure and cultural exploration.
 

Touring with B T A- 
In order to give you a surreal experience during the tour, Bike and Trek Adventure have planned the itineraries and routes meticulously. We have allocated enough time to be spent in each place, so that you don’t miss the breath-taking locales and the finest amenities each place has to offer.  When you choose to tour with us, you can be assured of an unforgettable experience! Around 95% of our tracks are paved country road tracks, mostly on small hills for your safety and comfort. 


ACCOMMODATION

Accommodation is obtainable in any respect locations. Most of the resorts are lifestyle Resorts /luxury Eco Resorts, Hotels and heritage properties. Our value is primarily based totally on dual sharing. For individuals who wishes single occupation room, we provide single occupation room with extra cost. 
 

TERRAIN 

This itinerary allows for average daily distance of approximately 60-70 km. This is designed to enjoy the cycling through rural life and meet people of Vietnam. The vehicle will accompany and en-route make stop for bottled water and fruits juices for the cyclist. A nice way of sharing different experienced on the way. The Bike support vehicle will always travel behind the last cyclist. If you wish to take a break from riding than wait at the side of the road and support vehicle will pick you up. Road condition contains a mixture of tarmac, concrete, and some gravels. The majority of riding takes place on small concrete road through villages. Sometimes, it requires traversing a few kilometers on bigger to link up some small areas. Unpaved surfaces are found at some places in remote areas.

TRANSPORTATION / SUPPORT VEHICLE 

Whenever possible, we will cycle completely from the day's outset to the final destination with limited transfers. Our core belief is that cycling is an act of empowerment for both the rider and the community and we strive to provide the most meaningful and immersive cycling experience for our guests. However, as noted in certain itineraries, we will occasionally use our comfortable and modern minivan to transport guests safely to either the beginning or end of the day's route. Also, taking into account your safety, this transport shuttle acts as a support vehicle to provide care for unforeseen emergencies. Riders who wish to take a break from the bicycle after our designated lunch stop will have the opportunity to be transported in our support vehicle to our final destination for the day. We know that occasionally a journey is more difficult than it appears and we are happy to work with each individual group to tailor our programs to your group needs.
 

Liability and Personal Health Insurance:
Bike and Trek Adventure does not provide personal liability insurance to the guests on the trip. We recommend that each rider has the relevant Personal Health Insurance for travelling in Asia and coverage of activities such as cycling. As we generally cycle in remote and seldom-visited areas of Vietnam, immediate access to critical care infrastructure such as ambulances is often not available. To ensure your safety, we provide a support vehicle for our excursions. Your safety comes first to us and we plan ahead to make sure that you have everything you need to cycle at your best.


FOOD 

We believe that eating local is not just a lot of fun but also are of those important elements of the destination experience- Very much a part of the adventure as they say! So, be flexible and prepared to savour and enjoy the varied and wonderful food of the world. Meals included and excluded are clearly specified on the detailed itinerary. When meals are included you will need to adhere to timings as these meals are usually at local restaurants. When meals are not included, your trip leader will be happy to make restaurant recommendations of favourite places frequented by the locals. Choice of vegetarian food can sometimes be limited and repetitive. Though special food, including vegetarian, child meals etc., can never be guaranteed. We do our best to accommodate your requests. On guided trips, please ensure you inform your leader if you are a vegetarian.
 

CLOTHING 

We recommend cycling shorts, dry fit T-shirts or cycling jerseys, and firm footwear. Loose fitting dresses or flip-flops are unsuitable for a cycling tour. You don’t have to carry extra clothes during the rainy season, carry only a rain jacket. Your safety is our priority. We advise our guests to wear a helmet at all times during the cycling part of the trip. As experts who have enough experience traveling via Vietnamese road, we recommend our riders to apply a nice coat of sunscreen lotion. For added protection, you can use sun sleeves for your arms and buff headwear for your neck.
 

PRECAUTIONS 

Bring all of the crucial medications. Do now no longer ignore Consume quite a few liquids. Don’t drink faucet water. Use handiest bottled water that's constantly stored in the vehicle 

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is mandatory on all our trips and all details of your insurance policy including the policy number must be received by us prior to the start of your trip. 

Money to Carry

Keep with you sufficient Vietnamese Dongs in cash, money exchange or your international card.

Personal gear

People with particular requirements are advised to bring their own Bicycles, pedals, shoes, saddle, helmet and cycling clothes.

Typical day on the trip

You will ride for about 5-6 hours through the villages and towns in the itinerary while also exploring the quaint lifestyle and the culture while you ride. The evenings are free for leisure activities and sightseeing.

Medical facilities available

There are medical facilities (First Aid) available but we suggest carrying your own first aid kit and personal medicines as well. Also consult with the family Doctor before coming on our tour.
 

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE TOUR

Scenery rides through rice terraces of Mai Chau valley, and temperate forest of Pu Luong nature reserve. Interacting with locals of Thai and Muong ethnic minority of Vietnam. Visit to an UNESCO site of Trang An Landscape complex and Hoa Lu ancient citadel dated back to 10th century

Itinerary

Day 1: HANOI – MAI CHAU

Cycling distance: 60-70 km Elevation gain: 800-1000 m Meals provided: Breakfast, Lunch, dinner Accommodation: Mai Chau Eco House Website: https://maichau.ecolodge.asia/ In the morning, riders will be whisked away from town via a comfortable van to a picturesque locale where a hearty breakfast awaits, followed by a meticulous bike fitting session. Our adventure commences as we ascend through the secluded ethnic minority villages of the Muong people, traversing terraced rice paddies along the way. Offering a mix of challenging cross-country paths and serene paved mountain roads, the journey unfolds amidst panoramic vistas of mist-covered green karst formations and the expansive Hoa Binh Reservoir. After conquering several climbs and exhilarating downhill stretches, we enter the enchanting valley of Mai Chau, encircled by towering mountains and adorned with vast stretches of vibrant green rice fields. Cap off the day's exploits with a delectable home-cooked meal, embracing the warmth and hospitality of the region.

Day 2: MAI CHAU – PU LUONG NATURE RESERVE

Cycling distance: 60-70 km Elevation gain: 1000-1200 m Meals provided: Breakfast, lunch, dinner Accommodation: Pu Luong Treehouse – Website: https://puluongtreehouse.com/ Today's exhilarating ride presents two formidable climbs, offering glimpses of breath-taking vistas, remote traditional villages, and some of Southeast Asia's most picturesque rice terraces. The initial ascent is a challenging uphill journey leading us out of the mesmerizing Mai Chau Valley and onto a lofty plateau nestled amidst the mountainous terrain. Following tranquil paths shaded by verdant foliage alongside crystalline streams, our route guides us into the serene embrace of the Pu Luong Nature Reserve. Here, we pause for a traditional lunch overlooking the mesmerizing rice terraces that define the charm of the village. After a brief respite, we embark on a leisurely 10-kilometer stretch of cycling across flat terrain, meandering through lush green fields and vibrant ethnic minority villages. Yet, another ascent awaits us—a short but steep climb leading to our Pu Luong homestay. Here, amidst the tranquil ambiance, we can unwind with a refreshing beer by the natural spring waters before indulging in a delightful BBQ dinner under the open sky.

Day 3: PU LUONG – NINH BINH

Cycling distance: 60 km Elevation: 500m Meals provided: Breakfast, lunch Accommodation: Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Website:https://hiddencharmresort.com/ Today kicks off with an exhilarating start: a thrilling downhill ride through the village's steep rice terraces, setting our hearts racing. Upon reaching the tranquil valley below, we venture onto a captivating cross-country track, spanning 15 kilometres of stunning scenery. Shaded by bamboo forests lining the riverside, we revel in the solitude of nature, surrounded only by its serene beauty. Following this invigorating journey, we board a van for a scenic hour-long transfer, heading towards Ninh Binh, a prestigious UNESCO World Heritage Site. Along the way, we are treated to glimpses of majestic limestone formations that adorn the landscape, adding to the allure of our adventure. As the day draws to a close, we arrive at our cozy Ninh Binh homestay, ready to unwind and reflect on the day's unforgettable experiences

Day 4: NINH BINH – HA NOI

Cycling distance: 25 km Meals provided: Breakfast, lunch, farewell dinner Accommodation:  Le Jardin Hotel Haute Couture or Similar – Website: https://lejardinhotels.com/hanoi-haute-couture/ Following a satisfying buffet breakfast, we embark on a relaxed cycling excursion through the mesmerizing landscapes and historical treasures of Ninh Binh. Pausing frequently to share stories and capture memorable photographs, we immerse ourselves fully in the allure of our surroundings. Trading our bikes for boats, we entrust ourselves to the guidance of a local expert for a captivating three-hour journey. Drifting through the darkness of river caves and discovering hidden lagoons, we delve deeper into the rich tapestry of Vietnam's history. After a delightful lunch, we make our way to Hanoi, arriving in the capital city before 6 p.m. Upon check-in at our hotel nestled within the charming Old Quarter of Hanoi, we prepare for our farewell dinner, a momentous occasion deserving of our finest attire.

Day 5: HANOI DEPARTURE

Meals provided: Breakfast While breakfast is included, we encourage you to explore the culinary delights and cultural wonders of Hanoi at your leisure. Alternatively, you may opt for a guided city tour led by a knowledgeable local guide to delve deeper into the city's treasures. Should you wish to extend your holiday, perhaps to visit the enchanting Ha Long Bay, our team is more than happy to provide assistance and recommendations to ensure your journey continues to be filled with unforgettable experiences.

Inclusion
  • ​Accommodations at 3 star hotels/homestay with daily breakfast (twin/double sharing)

  • Meal Plan- Breakfast 5 / Lunch 4 / Dinner 3

  • Air-conditioned van for transfers and support

  • Support vehicle to carry gear, luggage, first aid

  • Cycling guides and mechanics (number depends on group size)        

  • Entrance fees, boat trips

  • All biking gear (bike, helmet, tool kit, water cage)

  • Water, snacks, soft drinks, fresh fruit on biking days

  • Free flow cold beer at the end of the tour

  • High quality mountain bikes, all sizes + helmet

Exclusion
  • ​Airport transfer

  • Visa

  • International airfares        

  • Hotel early check-in / late check-out

  • Overweight luggage        

  • Personal expenses

  • Travel insurance

  • Tipping

Liability and Personal Health Insurance: 

​Bike and Trek Adventure does not provide personal liability insurance to the guests on the trip. We suggest that each guest has the relevant Personal Health Insurance for traveling in Asia and that it covers activities such as cycling. In the Mekong there is not extensive first aid support such as ambulances and modern medical practices. We provide a support vehicle for such instances. 

Bikes

We have fleet of modern, MTB bicycles that are included in the cost of your tour. Saddle are wide and comfy gel cushioning and spring.

You need to bring your own clip in pedals if you prefer these. You also have the option to bring own bike seat/saddle. Which our mechanic will fit for you.

All bikes will be labelled with customers’ names so that they have the same bike each day and alloy smooth operations. 

Guides throughout the Journey

During the riding days, we offer a professional guide to lead the ride as well as a backup vehicle. The person in charge will move your luggage to the new location. In bigger groups, two guides may be present, one in front and one behind the group. The guide makes sure that transportation, lodging, meals, and luggage transfers all go according to plan. This individual also takes care of our visitors' safety, general well-being, and bike maintenance while keeping a careful eye on traffic conditions and any updates to the route. Please be aware that the support vehicle typically stays with the riding group all day long, offering complete mechanical assistance and backup.

Cost (Euro 1250 per person)

Single supplement: € 60

E-Bike surcharge: € 182

Important Links

Cycling Fitness Guide

25MB

Liability

25MB

Disclaimer & Declaration

25MB

Parents Disclaimer

25MB

Medical Disclaimer

25MB

Terms & Conditions

25MB

Frequently Asked Questions

I am not a skilled rider. Can I join you on your tour?

We want more and more people to start utilising bikes for everything from commuting to work to taking leisurely outings, as we are an organisation headed by dedicated bike connoisseurs. Our adventures are therefore created so that the general public may enjoy the tour. To make it easier for you, we'll ride at a relaxed pace. Our trips are classified to help you understand the degree of fitness expected. Take part in one of TRA’s worldwide trips if you're searching for an adrenaline rush.

Do you bike during the summer months?

Cycling is enjoyable in almost any weather, even in the heat. Our tour guides will make a little alteration to the itinerary so you can avoid the intense afternoon sun. To make the journey satisfying for you, we'll include extra water stops and pay close attention to your necessities.

Do you go cycling when it rains?

Yes, cycling in the rain is perfectly pleasant. To keep you warm and dry along the trip, our staff will give you a poncho. Additionally, we will add mudguards to every bike so that you may easily ride over any terrain. We will arrange for a backup until the situation is clear or halt for breaks if the rain is making it difficult to navigate.

I have a tight dietary regimen. Will you be able to cook me a certain meal?

We genuinely like making you feel at home. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions or allergies when making your reservation so that we may ensure appropriate food preparations for you.

Will it be possible to personalize a tour?

We may tweak the trip if your group is seeking something more thrilling and daring. For additional information, get in touch with one of our amiable representatives.

How much should I tip?

In India, leaving a gratuity has become customary. You should donate as much as you feel is appropriate in light of your financial situation, the services you get, and your subjective assessment of those services.

How do you define backup?

We have a lot of local expertise because we've had ample experience leading amazing trips in  Kerala . If you find difficult to ride any point you can hop on our back up vehicle

Must I purchase travel insurance?

Yes, before you leave your home country, we strongly advise purchasing extensive travel insurance.

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