Current as of: March 29, 2024 - 06:22

Cycle Indochina & Angkor – Premium Adventure

Cycle Indochina & Angkor - Premium Adventure Trip Notes

  • Ways to Travel: Guided Group, Premium Adventures, Private Group Adventures
  • Destination: Cambodia, Thailand, Vietnam
  • Programmes: Cycling, Premium Adventures
  • Activity Level:

    3 out of 7 - Moderate

  • 14 Days: Land Only
  • Ages: 16+
  • Trip Code: MOE
  • Carbon Footprint: 24kg CO2e

Trip Overview

Our classic multi-country Asian cycling adventure – enhanced with upgraded accommodation, extra meals and handpicked leaders

This expertly led premium cycling adventure covers three Southeast Asian countries with divergent histories and subtly different cultures. From the energetic streets of Bangkok to tranquil paddy fields, to the magnificence of Angkor’s temples and alluring Phnom Penh. We experience a piece of everything these remarkable countries have to offer while staying in premium accommodation, including three nights at the Lynnaya Urban River Resort & Spa in Siem Reap.

Heading into Vietnam, we enter the Mekong Delta, a spectacular patchwork of paddies and waterways before our journey ends in Ho Chi Minh City, where the frenetic pace and vibrant street life contrasts starkly with the rural areas we have cycled through.

At a Glance

  • 13 nights in premium hotels and resorts
  • Nine days of cycling with 95 percent vehicle support
  • Generally well-paved roads, with some easy dirt roads in Thailand and Vietnam
  • Traffic levels higher near the larger towns, so you should be comfortable riding occasionally in traffic
  • Travel by private air-conditioned minibus
  • Group normally 4 to 16, plus local leader
  • E-bikes available for an additional cost

Highlights

  • Three nights at the intimate Lynnaya Urban River Resort & Spa – the perfect base to explore Angkor
  • Two full days to explore the incredible Angkor temple complex in Cambodia by bike
  • Enjoy sundowners and spectacular views from the rooftop bars at our Siem Reap and Phnom Penh accommodations
  • Cycle through three countries, from Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City, experiencing mouth-watering cuisine along the way; many meals included
  • Stay overnight in the peaceful Mekong Delta at the Mekong Riverside Boutique Resort & Spa; relax in lush tropical gardens and enjoy a kayak on the Mekong as the sun rises

Is This Trip for You?

This Premium Adventure is rated Activity Level 3 (Moderate) and classified Road. For more on our trip gradings, visit our Activity Level Guidelines page.

  • Nine days of cycling
  • Average daily distance 33mi (54km) per day with 95 percent vehicle support

Terrain and route: The roads are generally well-paved in Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam, with some easy dirt roads in Thailand and Vietnam. Conditions will be hot and humid and there are some long days, but there are very few hills. Traffic levels in Southeast Asia are higher near the larger towns, so you should be comfortable riding occasionally in traffic. Though many of the roads are in good condition you should expect potholes and occasional poor road conditions.

Group

Generally, we use different support staff and vehicles for each country, but all groups will be accompanied by one expert cycling Tour Leader from start to finish, either Thai, Cambodian or Vietnamese. The tour leader will be assisted by a second cycling leader and (if required) local guides.

Adult min age: 16

Min group size: 4

Max group size: 16

Itinerary

MOE Map

Land Only

  • Start City: Bangkok
  • End City: Ho Chi Minh City

Land Only Itinerary

Day 1
Start Bangkok; welcome dinner

Welcome to Bangkok. You are free to arrive at any time today.

There will be a welcome group meeting and briefing with your leader in the early evening followed by an included group welcome dinner. Your main luggage will be transported ahead of you to the start point early in the morning so please bring this with you to the welcome meeting; just hold onto what you need for the night/morning – you will be with your luggage again by mid-morning tomorrow.

Premium accommodation: U Sathorn Bangkok, Bangkok (four-star)

Meals included: Dinner

Day 2
Early transfer to the old kingdom of Ayutthaya; warm-up ride on trail

It’s an early start as we venture out of Bangkok to the ancient town of Ayutthaya. Our two-hour transfer takes us into the heart of this fascinating site and we start cycling by the huge reclining Buddha. Much of the old town was destroyed by the Burmese in the 18th century and we will cycle through the remaining shrine towers and enormous temples to appreciate the past magnificence.

Premium accommodation: The Kantary Ayutthaya Hotel, Ayutthaya (four-star)

Distance covered: 19mi (30km)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 3
Cycle to Kabin Buri

Today we follow minor roads through rural landscapes, including rubber and eucalyptus plantations, and tapioca and rice fields. We stop for lunch at a local restaurant along the way. There are a few easy rolling hills, but the route is mostly flat. The ride ends when we join a busier road before driving the final short distance to the town of Kabin Buri by bus. For dinner, join our tour leader and group for traditional Thai cuisine.

Premium accommodation: Kantary Kabinburi Hotel, Kabin Buri (four-star)

Distance covered: 56mi (90km)

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4
Ride to Aranyaprathet

Leaving our hotel early, we ride towards Tha Krabak where we can stop by a reservoir for a swim and a view of the untouched jungle on the other side. We will break for lunch along the way before cycling on quiet but well-maintained scenic roads en route to Aranyaprathet, 6mi (10km) from the Cambodian border.

Premium accommodation: The VELO’s Hotel & Pumptrack, Aranyaprathet (four-star)

Distance covered: 53mi (85km)

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 5
Farewell to Thailand; travel into Cambodia and on to atmospheric Siem Reap staying at the Lynnaya Urban River Resort & Spa

After breakfast, we bid farewell to Thailand and drive to the busy border, completing customs formalities as we cross into Cambodia at Poipet.

Due to years of civil war, Cambodia is poorer and less developed than its neighbours. Apart from growth in the capital and around Siem Reap, countryside life is still much the same as it has been for centuries.

Arriving into Cambodia, we transfer to Siem Reap (approximately 2hr 30min). Here the group spends the next three nights at the intimate Lynnaya Urban River Resort & Spa – the perfect base to explore Angkor.

This afternoon’s shorter ride from Siem Reap takes us past Wat Athvea, a modern temple in the grounds of the ruins of an Angkorian temple and ends at a market and picnic area outside Siem Reap.

Premium accommodation: Lynnaya Urban River Resort & Spa, Siem Reap (four-star)

Distance covered: 12mi (20km)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 6
First of two full days to explore the magnificent temple complex of Angkor by bus and bike, including Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, the Bayon and Banteay Srei

Today we may choose to have an early start to avoid the inevitable crowds drawn to the wonders of Angkor.

The various temples are spread over a wide area and are linked by shady avenues; meandering our way between them by bike provides a unique perspective.

Our cycle tour will include: the jungle-covered Ta Prohm, with amazing fromagier tree roots clinging to the ancient stones; Angkor Thom, with the Bayon temple of 37 towers (originally 49) topped with the four faces of the king; and, of course, the incredible Angkor Wat, with its huge moat, long causeway and massive towers.

Premium accommodation: Lynnaya Urban River Resort & Spa, Siem Reap (four-star)

Distance covered: 19mi (30km)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 7
Second day at Angkor temple complex including a visit to a local village; learn about local life and the art of Khmer noodle making

Today we cycle outside the main Angkor complex to the outlying temple of Banteay Srei, 22mi (35km) from Siem Reap town.

Our route takes us past paddy fields and through pretty villages. Banteay Srei was built in the 10th century and contains some of the finest examples of Khmer sculpture. Although much smaller than the later temples, here all the buildings are covered in exquisite carvings.

We also stop along the way at a village where we’ll have to chance to meet the local people and learn from them about their way of life, including the art of Khmer noodle making. Here we can taste this popular Cambodian dish and sugar palm.

In the afternoon, as we cycle back to Siem Reap, we can stop at a few of the lesser visited Angkor temples.

Siem Reap town is pleasant to wander around; the market has plenty of interesting and excellent shopping opportunities and there is a vibrant nightlife.

This afternoon there may also be time to visit the Tonle Sap Lake, which is a branch of the Mekong River. Time permitting, this optional trip includes a boat ride to see floating fishing villages. Anyone wanting to do this visit may need to miss part (or all) the ride back to Siem Reap, depending on timings.

Cycle approximately 43.5mi (70 km) if riding the full distance to and from Banteay Srei.

Premium accommodation: Lynnaya Urban River Resort & Spa, Siem Reap (four-star)

Distance covered: 44mi (70km)

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 8
Drive to Cambodian capital of Phnom Penh, stopping at Sambor Prei Kuk

Today we rest our legs and take a private transfer (approximately seven hours) to Phnom Penh, with a couple of stops along the way.

We visit Sambor Prei Kuk, the most impressive group of pre-Angkorian monuments in Cambodia with some of the oldest structures in the country. We’ll also pause for a traditional Khmer lunch at a community restaurant here. The road is currently undergoing some resurfacing, so some sections will be bumpy.

We should arrive in Phnom Penh for late afternoon, the perfect time for a sundowner on the Mekong.

Premium accommodation: Patio Hotel and Urban Resort, Phnom Penh (four-star)

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 9
Sightseeing including Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields

The fortunes of Phnom Penh have shifted dramatically during its history and the terrible years of the Khmer Rouge and subsequent civil war through the 1970s and 1980s have scarred the country.

During our stay, we visit two sites that give us a vivid impression of some of the horrors. There is the Genocide Museum, which is the former Khmer Rouge prison known as S-21 or Tuol Sleng, in the city centre. And 9mi (15km) out of town is the Killing Fields, a mass grave and execution site for the former inmates of S-21. While visiting Tuol Sleng and the Killing Fields may not appeal to everyone, we feel they give us an important understanding of what the country and its people had to endure just a few decades ago.

Now, the city is on the rise again and is a fascinating place with fine examples of French colonial architecture. We will also tour the Royal Palace with its Silver Pagoda.

Afterwards, there is also excellent shopping at the Russian market if you wish. There may also be the option to enjoy a sunset cruise on the Mekong, your leader will advise locally.

Premium accommodation: Patio Hotel and Urban Resort, Phnom Penh (four-star)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 10
Transfer to Takeo then cycle to Vietnam border; on to Chau Doc

This morning, we transfer south of Phnom Penh to the town of Takeo. Here the road becomes quieter and we mount our bikes for the 31mi (50km) ride to the Phnom Den/Tinh Bien border.

Once we bid farewell to Cambodia (and border formalities have been completed), we cycle approximately 19mi (30km) to the Vietnamese town of Chau Doc, situated along the banks of the Hau Giang River. This evening, we dine overlooking the river and get our first taste of southern Mekong cuisine.

Premium accommodation: Victoria Chau Doc Hotel, Chau Doc (four-star)

Distance covered: 50mi (80km)

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 11
Cycle/drive through the Mekong Delta; visit the ancient village of Long Dien B; overnight stay at Mekong Riverside Boutique Resort & Spa

This morning we depart our hotel and transfer to Chau Giang ferry for a short transfer before cycling along a lovely, quiet backroad, lined with small villages and dwellings, before lunch at a local restaurant. We then visit the ancient village of Long Dien B, home to female artists known for maintaining their ancestors’ special technique of glass painting. Here we have the chance to observe and learn about this traditional culture and art over a cup of tea.

The rivers and canals of the Mekong Delta form an amazing network of waterways. The area is famous for its abundant rice production, but many are now moving to more profitable fish farming and fruit and vegetable growing.

Afterwards, we transfer to the Mekong Riverside Boutique Resort & Spa, where we stay overnight. The evening is tranquil as we have dinner at the resort and enjoy Delta hospitality.

Premium accommodation: Mekong Riverside Boutique Resort & Spa, Mekong Delta (four-star)

Distance covered: 31mi (50km)

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12
Transfer to Cai Be for floating market; scenic cycle along Mekong riverbank; transfer to Ho Chi Minh City

Those who wish can rise early to enjoy the sunrise and kayak on the Mekong from the resort before breakfast (optional).

We then leave by boat, stopping en route at the Cai Be floating market. Here, large boats moor in the Mekong River, weighed down with fruits and vegetables. Local traders and shop owners buy in bulk in this strictly wholesale market. Recently, Cai Be floating market is becoming less crowded and smaller as fruit trading is mostly now done by trucks. However, this is still a great opportunity to see a local market and traditional trade on a smaller scale.

A little further on, we make a short stop to see cottage industries producing items such as popped rice, pancakes, wine and other homemade products. We start our ride towards Cai Lay, where we take a scenic route through orchards and along the Mekong riverbank. Back on the bus in My Tho, we drive on to the heat, hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City, still usually known as Saigon. This is an exciting and absorbing city where scooters pack the streets and temples stand alongside modern developments.

Premium accommodation: The Odys Boutique Hotel, Ho Chi Minh City (four-star)

Distance covered: 22mi (35km)

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 13
Free day in Ho Chi Minh City; farewell dinner

The whole day is free for you to explore Ho Chi Minh City, do some shopping and relax. There are several interesting things to see: the Saigon River, Ben Thanh market, Reunification Palace and Notre Dame Cathedral are all within easy walking distance. Alternatively, a short cyclo (cycle taxi) ride will take you to the War Remnants Museum, which has an extensive photographic record of the Vietnam/American War. Please be aware that some images at the museum are very graphic.

For those interested, the leader can arrange an optional visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels, which are two hours outside the city. Used by the Viet Cong during the war, the network covers three levels with approximately 150mi (240km) of tunnels. Originally these were very narrow, but some areas have been widened to allow tourists to explore the system. Claustrophobes may prefer to stay outside in the sunshine.

In the evening, we have a final farewell dinner together, feasting on delicious Vietnamese specialties.

Premium accommodation: The Odys Boutique Hotel, Ho Chi Minh City (four-star)

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 14
End Ho Chi Minh City

The trip ends this morning after breakfast in Ho Chi Minh City.

If you’d like to extend your stay and discover more of this vibrant city, please enquire with your sales representative at time of booking about requesting additional accommodation.

Meals included: Breakfast

Ascents, descents and distances

All ascents, descents and distances listed above have been measured by our local partners or tour leaders, in many cases with satellite-based mapping software. Please note, different GPS measuring devices can give differing results, particularly on winding paths or in mountainous terrain. Measurements stated throughout these trips notes are given to help you understand the types of terrain and distances you will encounter. Timings stated will vary depending on the pace of your group.

Accommodation

Premium Hotels & Resorts

Lynnaya Urban River Resort and Spa - fresh water pool

Relax at the end of each day in our expertly curated, handpicked accommodation on this Premium Adventure. Each property has been chosen for its location, comfort, style, and unique characteristics.

U Sathorn Bangkok Hotel (four-star), Bangkok. One night.

  • Luxuriously appointed hotel with tastefully furnished rooms in French colonial style with a contemporary twist
  • Offering an urban peaceful oasis in bustling Bangkok
  • Modern gym and outdoor pool

Lynnaya Urban River Resort & Spa (four-star), Siem Reap. Three nights.

  • Premium intimate resort in the heart of Siem Reap
  • Relax and be pampered in the Nirvana Spa
  • Cool off in the freshwater swimming pool
  • Modern property promoting a real sense of comfort
  • Enjoy a drink on the rooftop at Palate’s Sky Bar overlooking the river

Patio Hotel & Urban Resort (three/four-star), Phnom Penh. Two nights.

  • Elegant property with a rooftop pool
  • Centrally located in the heart of Phnom Penh, close to many of the main sights
  • Open-air sky bar and in-house restaurant

Mekong Riverside Boutique Resort & Spa (four-star), Cai Be. One night.

  • Environmentally friendly boutique resort on the Mekong River with bungalow-style rooms
  • Enjoy local Mekong Delta hospitality and cuisine
  • Relax with a treatment or massage at the Oasis spa or cool off in the outdoor swimming pool

Resort with a down-to-earth atmosphere among lush tropical fruit gardens

The Odys Boutique Hotel (four-star), Ho Chi Minh City. Two nights.

  • Featuring the Sky Lounge, a rooftop bar with panoramic views of Ho Chi Minh City
  • Tastefully designed rooms combining both Vietnamese and European aesthetics
  • Located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, close to many key attractions
  • Enjoy a massage or treatment at the Nu Spa

The accommodation shown has been booked and agreed in advance; however, we may need to make changes to a property of similar or higher standard after you have booked. We endeavour to inform you of any changes in advance, which could, on rare occasions, be at late notice.

Additional Accommodation

It is possible to book additional nights before or after the tour, subject to availability – please enquire for details and prices.

Single accommodation

Single supplements are available (on request and subject to availability). Please advise your sales representative at the time of booking if you would like to request a single supplement.

Single supplement from USD 1,185

Food & Drink

All breakfasts, five lunches and six dinners are included.

The food on this trip is a real highlight for many. Southeast Asian cuisine is known for its abundance of freshly prepared dishes with strong aromatic flavours. There is a focus on herbs and citrus to ensure each dish packs a punch; chilli does feature highly too but is easily avoided.

Typically, most dishes come with rice and many are often served in a banana leaf with a variety of dips and herbs served separately.

The three countries visited ensure a different culinary experience every time you cross the border: ensure you try freshly made pad Thai noodles from the street stalls of Bangkok; the fish amok curry in Cambodia for a creamy coconut-based fragrant curry; and banh xeo (huge sizzling pancakes) in Vietnam.

Western food is available almost everywhere except in the Mekong Delta region.

Vegetarians are well catered for but please inform us before departure of any special dietary requests.

Please note, the availability of certain specialised products for restricted diets (eg gluten-free or dairy-free) is minimal or non-existent and we strongly recommend you bring these specialised dietary items from home.

You may find it beneficial to bring energy bars or gels with you from home to use during a ride. However, on Premium Adventure cycling departures, an included snack kitty is provided usually consisting of fresh fruit, nuts, biscuits and local snacks along with drinks and electrolyte powders.

Transport

Throughout the tour, we use a private air-conditioned minibus/coach. There are a couple of long driving days on this trip (up to seven hours). Road conditions are sometimes poor, and progress can be slow.

We use different vehicle set-ups in each country, as our vehicles do not cross international borders.

  • Thailand: We have 100 percent vehicle support. There will be one or two support buses, plus a support truck for the bikes and baggage.
  • Cambodia: There is 95 percent vehicle support, with vehicles to carry both clients and bikes.
  • Vietnam: There is 80 percent vehicle support, with vehicles to carry both clients and bikes nearby if needed in the Mekong Delta.

Tet Holiday Period (Vietnamese New Year)

During the Tet holiday period,  9-15 February 2024 and 28 January to 3 February 2025, and two weeks either side of Tet, our itinerary is subject to minor change as despite booking hotels and trains in advance, rooms and seats are difficult to obtain during this busy festive period when people are travelling home to celebrate with their families. It is unlikely that changes will occur and if they do it is likely we will just need to use alternative accommodation.

Weather & Seasonality

In Thailand and Cambodia, the weather is hot and humid year-round. The dry season runs from November to April with the monsoon between May and October. April and October are transition months. The dry season is characterised by hot days and generally clear skies, though you can expect the odd shower. The monsoon is characterised by short bursts of rain and can be a very atmospheric time to travel but an umbrella may be useful.

In Vietnam, the weather patterns are very similar to Cambodia – expect year-round temperatures from 25C to 39C (77F to 102F). The rainy season will normally run from June to September when you should expect short showers, but the sun will normally break through for extended periods.

From the end of March to May, the temperatures become very hot and humid with temperatures into the high 30Cs (around 100F) between Bangkok and Siem Reap as this is the build up to the monsoon season.

Joining Instructions

Key information

Recommended arrival time: You can arrive by late afternoon to catch the welcome dinner
Airport: Suvarnabhumi Airpo (BKK)

Getting to the start hotel

Exodus provides free arrival transfers to the start hotel from the airport for all customers.

Catching your return flight

Exodus provides free departure transfers for all customers to Ho Chi Minh City Airport (SGN) from the end hotel.

Please note, unless specified otherwise, the transfers will be to the start (or pre-tour) hotel and from the end (or post-tour) hotel; transfers to other hotels in the same city and/or on different dates may attract an extra charge. Transfers should be booked with your sales representative at least two weeks before the tour starts.

Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.

Location start: Bangkok
Location end: Ho Chi Minh City

What To Take

Essential Equipment

  • Casual clothes. As it is generally hot and humid, light cotton clothing is recommended for most of the trip when not on the bike. Local people generally dress conservatively and it is recommended that you do the same
  • Lightweight waterproof jacket or poncho/umbrella
  • Cycling helmet (compulsory)
  • Strong sunscreen
  • Torch/flashlight or headtorch
  • Light cotton trousers and lightweight long-sleeve shirt
  • Sun hat and sunglasses
  • Swimsuit
  • A first-aid kit is carried on each trip, but you should bring your own with diarrhoea treatment, painkillers, rehydration sachets, plasters and a blister-treatment kit
  • Insect repellent is also highly recommended. Repellent containing DEET is thought to be highly effective
  • Large refillable water bottle

There will be plenty of opportunities to get laundry done locally at a very affordable price so fine to pack light. Please remember that you will be expected to cover your legs (to the ankle) and arms (to the elbow) during visits to some temples and palaces.

We believe in reducing our negative environmental impacts wherever possible, this goes for when you need to spend a penny in the great outdoors! If no toilet facilities are available at some of the planned stops or during our ride, there may come a time when you need to go to the loo behind a tree/bush/rock. To avoid leaving toilet paper behind we recommend taking biodegradable dog poo/sandwich bags with you. Once you have done your business you can pop the used toilet roll in here and take it with you to dispose of when there are appropriate facilities available.

Water included

Plastic bottles are a big issue in many countries where recycling isn’t yet widely available; they often end up in landfill or get burned. Both processes are harmful to the environment and we would like to reduce our impact here. For your trip, we provide an alternative to single-use plastic bottles to reduce the plastic used. This means that safe drinking water will be available throughout; all you need to do is bring a bottle to refill along the way. Please add this to your packing list.

Optional Equipment

  • Fingerless cycling gloves
  • Handlebar bag to carry personal items while cycling
  • Bandana/cloth to keep cool
  • Energy snacks

Equipment Hire

Included standard bike
The standard bikes for this trip are Trek Marlin 7s and Giant Rincons 1 or 2.

We will take your height at the time of booking to reserve equipment. If you have a preferred bike size, please request when booking.

E-bike upgrade
Electric bikes are available on this trip; prices from £175/US$245/335 Canadian dollars. Speak to your sales representative for more information.

Bringing your own bike
If you’d prefer to bring your own bike, please advise us at the time of booking and you will receive a discount on the price of the trip. However, you will be responsible­­ f­or any extra baggage charges; assembling and disassembling your bike; and bringing along spare parts and any tools specific to it. You should also ensure you have adequate insurance to cover loss, damage or theft.

Accessories and clothing

Bringing equipment from home
You’re welcome to bring your own equipment, such as SPD pedals or clipless pedals, your own saddle (excluding the seat post), or gel saddle cover for the hire bikes. Your leader will help you fit these when bikes are distributed.

Helmets
Helmets are mandatory for everyone on a guided Exodus cycling trip. You must bring your own as, following best safety practice, they are not available for hire.

Cycling clothing
For this cycling trip we recommend:

  • Padded cycling shorts: For destinations with more modest cultures, we also recommend loose ‘over-shorts’ for riding or rest stops
  • Eyewear: Either sunglasses or eye protection with clear lenses to protect the eyes while riding
  • Cycling gloves: Especially for riding off-road or on rugged surfaces
  • Cycling shoes: Cycling is more efficient with stiff-soled shoes. We don’t recommend open-toed shoes or sandals
  • Small close-fitting backpack or bum bag (fanny pack): To keep spare clothing or essential items to hand during the ride
  • Handlebar bag: To carry personal items while cycling

Practical Information

Passport

To enter Vietnam, Thailand and Cambodia your passport must:
  • Have an expiry date at least six months after the day you arrive in each country
  • Be undamaged (including no water damage)
  • Be complete (no pages missing)
Vietnam also specifically requests that you have at least two blank pages, though you will also need sufficient blank pages for Thailand and Cambodia.

Visa

Thailand

Travellers from the UK, US and Canada normally do not need a visa to enter Thailand. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip.Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.

Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.

Cambodia

Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally need a visa to enter Cambodia. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.

Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.

Important advice regarding e-Visas:

Please note, e-Visas are not accepted at all border checkpoints when travelling overland into Cambodia.

This applies to the following borders/trips:

  • Tinh Bien,Vietnam/Phnom Den, Takeo, Cambodia border: Thai Indochina Explorer (Trip Code: AOX) and Southeast Asia Express (AOK)
  • Xa Xia, Vietnam/Prek Chak, Cambodia (Ha Tien crossing): South East Asia Adventure (Trip Code: FIJ)

You can only purchase a tourist visa on arrival at these borders as e-Visas will not be accepted.

More information can be found at:

Vietnam

UK passport holders normally do not need a visa to enter Vietnam for visits up to 45 days, while those with a US or Irish passport normally do need a visa to enter. Visa requirements for EU citizens vary by country.

Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.

Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.

• Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/asia/vietnam
• Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/vietnam
• United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/vietnam
• USA:  www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Vietnam.html

Vaccinations and Health

Thailand

There are no required vaccinations. However, recommended vaccinations include tetanus, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, Japanese encephalitis, rabies, tuberculosis and typhoid. You will also need a yellow fever vaccination certificate if you’re arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission or transiting for more than 12 hours through a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. Please confirm all the above with your doctor or travel clinic.

Dengue and zika, both viral diseases spread by mosquitoes, are a known risk in places visited. There are currently no vaccines or prophylaxes available, so take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites.

Cambodia

There are no required vaccinations. However, recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A, tetanus, typhoid, cholera, hepatitis B, Japanese encephalitis, rabies and tuberculosis. You will also need a yellow fever vaccination certificate if you’re arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission or transiting for more than 12 hours through a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. Please confirm your vaccine recommendations and requirements with your doctor or travel clinic.

Dengue fever, a tropical viral disease spread by daytime biting mosquitoes, is a known risk in places visited. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available, so take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites.

Vietnam

There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to speak to your doctor or travel clinic about vaccinations for hepatitis A, tetanus, typhoid, cholera, hepatitis B, Japanese encephalitis, rabies and tuberculosis. The risk of malaria is slight, but you may want to consult your doctor or travel clinic for further advice.

Similarly, dengue and zika, both viral diseases spread by mosquitoes, are known risks in Vietnam. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available, so we strongly recommend you take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites.

The Travel Health Pro website recommends to have a rabies vaccination on this trip, as cycling is considered a higher risk activity.

Local Time

Thailand's time zone: Asia/Bangkok (UTC +07:00)

Cambodia's time zone: Asia/Phnom_Penh (UTC +07:00)

Vietnam's time zone: Asia/Ho_Chi_Minh (UTC +07:00)

Electricity

Thailand's electricity: Plug types A (two flat pins, US standard), B (three pins, US standard), C (two round pins, European standard) and F (two round pins) – 220V, 50Hz

Cambodia's electricity: Plug types A (two flat pins), C (two round pins) and G (three rectangular pins) – 230V, 50Hz

Vietnam's electricity: Plug types A (two flat pins, US standard), C (two round pins, European standard) and F (two round pins) – 220V, 50Hz

Money

Thailand's currency: Thai baht (THB)

Cambodia's currency: Cambodian riel (KHR); however, US dollars are widely accepted

Vietnam's currency: Vietnamese dong (VND)

ATM Availability

ATMs are now widespread in Southeast Asian cities and are the easiest way of obtaining money.

Please note:

  • Thailand: There is a minimum of at least 150 baht (US$4.30) fee for all ATM transactions
  • Vietnam:It is possible to draw a maximum 2,000,000 Vietnamese dong (approximately US$90) in major cities in one go.
  • Cambodia: ATMs dispense money in US dollars or Cambodian riel.

Credit card acceptance is now widespread at restaurants and shops catering for tourists in Southeast Asian cities.

We would advise getting local currency out in each country, but if you would like to bring cash there will be ample opportunity for you to change this. US dollars and British pounds are both easily exchanged.

As you will likely be carrying much of your money in cash, we strongly recommend using a money belt.

Extra Expenses & Spending Money

You will need about US$300-US$370 for meals not included, which will allow you to eat well. Apart from the food, you should allow money to cover drinks (a little more if you like a beer/alcohol) and souvenirs.

Tipping

On this Premium Adventure, tipping for any local support staff is included, and will be taken care of by your tour leader (or in some cases through our local agent). So need no for any tipping kitty contributions or to make your own tips during the trip.

Our ‘included tips’ will normally cover drivers, local specialist guides, certain hotel staff, and serving staff for included meals. Amounts will be in line with the local standard. Of course, if you wish to make a further tip for some extra special service you may do so.

Tips for the Tour Leader are not included. Whether to tip at all and the amount is entirely at your own discretion, but as a starting point we suggest around US$3-US$6 per person for the duration of the trip.

People, Places & Planet

We work hard to create trips that improve life for the people and places we visit, and look after the planet we explore. Find out more about our sustainable travel ethos and practice here, and find out about the work of the Exodus Travels Foundation here.

Some sustainable travel highlights of this trip include:

People

How this trip helps improve life for local communities.

  • The use of local guides means our customers will be well informed about local traditions, and cultural and social sensitivities. During the trip, we use one local leader from either Thailand, Vietnam or Cambodia and different local support teams and assistant cycling staff in each country so that clients have the opportunity to interact with support staff from all countries.
  • This trip brings income and opportunity to the destination community through the inclusion of locally owned hotels and restaurants, the emphasis on eating locally produced food and support of other local enterprise.
  • In Siem Reap, we visit a village that directly helps to support the local people. During our visit, we’ll have to chance to meet the community and learn from them about their way of life including the art of Khmer noodle making.
  • We do a lot to celebrate the cottage industries on this tour, as this is not only a way to directly benefit the locals, but it is also hugely fascinating and enjoyable for travellers. For example, in the Mekong Delta, we visit small businesses and factories which sell handmade coconut sweets, rice paper, soya bean sauce and popped rice among other things.
  • There is also the option to see a traditional folk dancing or water puppet show in Ho Chi Minh City. This encourages local customs to continue and creates employment opportunities.

Places

How this trip helps protect and conserve local landscapes and nature.

  • Read about our commitment to nature protection and restoration here, including our rewilding commitment for every customer who travels.
  • By travelling in a small group, led by a local guide, we ‘tread lightly’ to minimise our impact on local resources and the environment. On this trip, some parts of the itinerary stay in smaller towns using accommodation outside of busy cities.
  • Our trips adhere to ABTA’s industry-leading animal welfare guidelines to ensure the best possible practices with regard to working animals and wildlife viewing. Our animal welfare policy can be found here.
  • We work with our partners on the ground to proactively eliminate or reduce waste, for example eliminating all single-use plastic water bottles and instead providing refills for re-usable bottles.
  • When visiting landmarks, cultural sites and National Parks such as Pang Sida National Park, Angkor Wat and the Genocide Museum, our fees contribute to the upkeep and maintenence of these places.
  • We provide clients with a re-usable tote bag at the start of the tour (locally made in Bangkok), offering an alternative to single-use plastic bags and a souvenir to take home!

 Planet

How we seek to keep the carbon footprint of this trip low.

  • Read about our climate action here, including our carbon reduction and compensation commitments.
  • Accommodation and restaurants in the itinerary use locally-sourced food which has not been transported long distances.
  • Vegetarian and vegan options are available at majority of accommodation and restaurants.

 Tips for sustainable travel on this trip

Leave no trace: We do all we can to ensure we leave no rubbish behind in the wild and beautiful places we visit; we ask that you do the same. If there are no recycling facilities in-country, we’d ask you to consider bringing recyclable materials home with you.

  • Leave no trace: We do all we can to ensure we leave no rubbish behind in the wild and beautiful places we visit; we ask that you do the same. If there are no recycling facilities in-country, we’d ask you to consider bringing recyclable materials home with you.
  • Plastic waste reduction: Please bring your own re-usable water bottle on this trip; filtered water will be provided where tap water is not drinkable.
  • Cultural respect:
    • Please remember that you will be expected to cover your legs and arms (to the elbow) during visits to temples and sacred sites so packing a sarong or other suitable clothing is recommended. Also remember to remove hats when visiting a sacred site.

Important Information

Water safety

This trip includes time by a lake, river or sea, where there may be opportunities to swim. You should always seek local advice before deciding whether to swim. Open-water or wild swim spots should be treated with extreme caution. Information on how to keep yourself safe while swimming is shown here.

Important Information

Your safe participation 

When booking this trip, you should be confident in your ability to participate in all activities described in these Trip Notes. If you have any doubt about your suitability, please call the Exodus office and ask to speak to one of the experts on this itinerary. 

Although our leaders are well trained to deal with different capabilities, if they have any concerns about someone’s ability to safely take part in an activity, or their impact on other people’s enjoyment, we authorise them to take necessary action which, in some circumstances, may involve asking someone to miss that activity. 

By booking this trip you agree to our Booking Conditions which clearly state that our leaders have the authority to do this. In these rare instances we will ensure anyone sitting out is safely provided for and offered alternative options where possible. Refunds will not be provided for activities missed and customers may be liable for additional costs incurred. 

How to Book

  1. Check availability: Go online to check availability, or contact us by phone or email.
  2. Secure your place: You can provisionally hold a place on this trip, usually for between three and seven days.
  3. Complete your booking and payment

When you’re ready to book, go to our website for online bookings, book over the phone or you can complete a booking form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque.

After booking

You will receive your booking confirmation letter and invoice, which includes extra information and guidance about your travel arrangements.

Full joining instructions, including local emergency numbers and details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you approximately two to three weeks prior to departure. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier, please contact our office or your travel agent.

Trip Note validity

These Trip Notes are valid from the “Current as” date on page one. They will occasionally be updated after booking and before departure; if there are any updates that significantly impact the inclusions or itinerary, customers will be written to separately. They will also receive a link to the most up-to-date Trip Notes with their Final Joining Instructions before travelling.

The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current brochure or website, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure and website. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where necessary. Occasionally, it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a variety of reasons – climatic, political, physical or other. In these circumstances we will make the best-possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.

Licensing

Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as a tour operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL) number 2582, issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). We are also bonded to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour Operators (FTO) and ABTA – The Travel Association. This means you can book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all money paid to us for your trip is fully protected.