A bicycle tour of Vietnam will allow you to see the fantastic country side at your own pace. Even if you’re with a group most days are planned so that you have an adequate amount of time to sight see. Single travelers on bicycles are not that unusual. Self guided tours planned by small groups are a great way to travel and a real bargain. Take your pick – travel in with a group or solo / organized or self guided, a well planned trip will be well worth your time.

Bicycling in big cities can be a bit hectic, but once you get to the rural areas you’ll be glad you decided to take a bicycle tour of Vietnam. The scenic mountains of northwest Vietnam and the Central Highlands will give you a great sense of satisfaction after a tough day of pedaling. A leisurely ride (more or less) along the coast from Hue, south to Nha Trang or even further, will expose you to some great historical and cultural centers of Vietnam. What ever you plan calls for you’ll experience unique cultures and friendly faces though out Vietnam. Riding a bicycle is a way of life in Vietnam. Everyone does it. Foreigners on bicycles attract a lot of attention. You’ll meet friendly and curious Vietnamese, especially if you’re on an upscale mountain or touring bike. Caution: Some roads in Vietnam will tear up a fancy road bike.

There’s a style for every type of bicycle tourist. Organized tours attract a lot of participants. Many of these tours are fairly expensive. They provide support vehicles, meals, hotels, domestic transportation, mountain or touring bike (if needed) and other amenities for those on tour. Historic and cultural sightseeing excursions may be included. These tours start at about $1500 for 14 or 15 days. Airfare included from the west coast US start about $3000. Shop carefully!

A self guided bicycle tour including international airfare from the west coast of the US can be had for the same price as a group land tour. $1000 for airfare and $25 to $30 a day for a self guided tour can be easily worked out. Planning a trip like this is half the fun. Find a good guide book and you’re on your way!

It is recommended that, even though inconvenient and costly, you bring your own bike. Bike rentals for adequate equipment is $10 + per day. Or you could buy one when you arrive. A 3 speed will be top of the line gear wise. Locally made bikes and Chinese imports will not hold up to the rigors ahead. Give renting or buying a bike careful research before committing. Once you leave home it’s too late.

The support vehicle is usually a major concern for touring bicyclists. Because there are so many bicycle riders in Vietnam this is easily overcome. You wait by the side of the road, with your crippled ride, for a bus or truck to the next town.