Biking in Vietnam - All You Need To Know

Getting to know Vietnam's topography on two wheels is a favorite way of pleasure-seeking cyclists wishing to see the sheer exhilaration of landscapes closely. Biking in Vietnam offers great excursions through dynamic cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, the flat sprawl of Mekong Delta, quiet roads of "no car zones" in Hoi An Ancient Town, and zigzags in Sapa Town. Wherever you are, you will be accompanied by the most memorable experiences and splendid sceneries. Check out 5 of the best cycling routes across Vietnam below in no particular order.

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Best places for biking in Vietnam

Sapa

Being the most difficult bike routes, Sapa trails are not for those with leg weakness. Innumerable rugged off-the-beaten-path roads carved out deeply into the jungles or around every side of the mountains make Sapa a real challenge for mountain bikers with the hardest of tires. However worthy things are: you have a precious opportunity to enjoy the quietest stretches leading to authentic ethnic villages, uncover locals' culture and customs, admire spectacular yellow-silk cascade paddy fields during harvest seasons, and taste local specialties. The best time to go cycling in Sapa should be during the summer from May to August.

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Hanoi

Seen from above, Hanoi reveals chaotic traffic life however the capital city is also replete with tree-lined boulevards and lake-side winding roads for gentle rides. Biking in Hanoi is easy-going and particularly suitable for autumn training. Bikers can take a short circuit around West Lake, the hectic Old Quarter, or Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum without breaking too much sweat. Avoid taking up your biking trip in Hanoi during the rainy season from May to August since there will have sudden, torrential rains together with hot and extreme heat.

Hoi An

There are a plethora of bicycles for rent in Hoi An as a statement of the dominance of biking activity here. Similar to Hanoi, pedaling a bicycle across serene rivers, ancient lantern-lit streets, and quaint rustic villages of Hoi An is hassle-free. Either join a group or explore the town on a self-guided tour, tourists will have a variety of photo opportunities with typically yellow old houses nestled on pedestrian streets, the slow-flowing Hoai River sparkled by lanterns in the evenings, and Cam Ha Village or An Bang Beach in the further distance.

Ho Chi Minh City

For bikers of all levels, Ho Chi Minh City is a perfect base where modernity blends with rich culture and history. Despite being a young city, Ho Chi Minh City has grown in parallel with the country's new phases of development. It would take at least a day on your pushbike to ride around and witness the magnificent beauty of French colonial architecture in Notre Dame Cathedral, Post Office, Ben Thanh Market as well as venture into the busiest Western Town of Bui Vien and Chinese Town in District 5. Not only does each journey enable you to have an insight into the cultural and historical values of Ho Chi Minh City, but it is also a great chance for culinary delights, exploring the diversity of street foods and city lifestyle.

Mekong Delta

With just a bike, you can enjoy the joy of tailor-made tours along mighty rivers interlaced with canals. Alongside aquaculture and marine economy, Mekong Delta is also a long-waited tourist destination for many riders with diverse freshwater forest ecosystems, coastal mangrove ecosystems, and long-lasting handicrafts. Additionally, smooth routes in Ben Tre, Dong Thap, Can Tho, and so on make an easy riding and allow tourists to soak up the idyllic landscapes.

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Things to remember

• Intrepid but inexperienced bikers should only choose short and flat treks.
• For seasoned bicyclists, it is essential to prepare some tools to fix your bike if it's possible.
• Always ride on the right side on the same side with pedestrians.
• Wearing a helmet and protective gear is necessary to protect you from injuries.
• Find out bicycle repair shops on your journey in advance so you can get help when your wheeled vehicle is broken.
• Planning your trip to coincide with the dry season in order to not getting wet.
• Book a biking tour from agencies and get everything well-prepared for a free and easy excursion.