5 unforgettable cycling journeys across Vietnam

February

5 unforgettable cycling journeys across Vietnam

Cycling is a popular form of exercise with numerous benefits. Many people not only choose bicycles as a sport but also see them as a travel companion, even for long-distance trips. Join Vietnam Bike Adventure in this article to explore five unforgettable cycling journeys across Vietnam!

Table of Contents

The Korean traveler’s 26-day cycling journey across Vietnam

Bae Dong Il, a South Korean student studying Vietnamese in Vietnam, embarked on an extraordinary cycling adventure. In mid-2019, he flew from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi but chose to cycle back to Ho Chi Minh City. His decision to bike across Vietnam faced opposition from his family, yet his deep passion for Vietnamese culture and people kept him determined. He saw this journey as a way to explore the country at a slower and more immersive pace.

His journey began on May 18 in Hanoi. Before setting off, he visited a bicycle shop to find his travel companion—a sports bike costing 2,800,000 VND. With the Vietnamese and South Korean flags attached to his bike, he pedaled along National Route 1A, passing through many provinces. Along the way, Bae Dong was fascinated by buffalo leisurely walking on highways, the challenging Hai Van Pass, and especially Da Lat. He also developed a fondness for Vietnam’s famous broken rice with grilled pork and shredded pork skin.

Although Bae Dong had previously traveled across Vietnam by bus, this cycling journey proved far more meaningful. Riding a bicycle allowed him to fully absorb the roadside scenery, stop at interesting places on a whim, and interact closely with local people

The Western Traveler and Her Cycling Journey Across Vietnam

A passionate cyclist and avid traveler in her homeland, Lourdes Gala Santos, a 35-year-old from Scotland, chose Vietnam as her next adventure destination.

Her cycling journey lasted six weeks, covering all three regions of the country and bringing a mix of emotions and unforgettable experiences. Along the way, she tried unique local activities such as fishing from a boat and chopping coconuts with a machete. Lourdes was especially captivated by Vietnam’s breathtaking landscapes, from fishing villages in Ha Long Bay to the towering limestone mountains of Ninh Binh.

What she loved most about her trip, however, was the warmth of the Vietnamese people. “The world has many beautiful places, but finding such kindness and hospitality is rare. These are experiences money can’t buy,” she shared.

The woman who left a stable job to cycle across Vietnam

Despite having a stable job with a good income, Lãn Nguyên Huệ Trang decided to leave it behind for a journey to challenge herself. She spent six months preparing—mapping out her route, learning bicycle repair, and gaining experience in long-distance cycling.

What made her trip truly remarkable was that she carried only 3 million VND for the entire journey from Hanoi to Ca Mau. She didn’t want an easy trip, staying in hotels and eating at restaurants. Instead, she relied on the kindness of locals, convincing them to offer her food and shelter along the way.

More than just an adventure, her journey gave her a new family across Vietnam—people who selflessly helped her. Even those who lived far from her route supported her by sending bicycle tires, tents, and insulated bottles to locations she would pass through.

The student who completed a 4,000 km cycling journey across Vietnam at 19

Nguyen Chi Trung Thanh embarked on a 4,000 km cycling journey across Vietnam when he was just a first-year student at Ho Chi Minh City University of Economics. Since childhood, he had dreamed of one-day cycling across the country to see the landscapes he had only known through television and books.

To make this journey possible, Thanh took on part-time jobs to save money. Even during difficult times, when he had to survive on instant noodles, he remained determined to fulfill his goal. He also cycled to school daily and took short trips to build his endurance.

During his month-long journey, he was most impressed by the cuisine of Ha Giang and the central provinces, which he found both delicious and affordable. For Thanh, this trip was not just about adventure—it was about human connection. He received immense kindness and support from locals and fellow cycling enthusiasts he met along the way.

The “Cycling Across Vietnam” program – a journey of connection and kindness

The Cycling Across Vietnam – A Journey of Connection and Kindness program was established in 2013 and has been held annually every summer. From June 30 to August 15, volunteers cycle 3,000 km from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City.

According to the organizers, the program is supported by the Vietnam Youth Union’s Social Work Center and organized by XUVI GROUP. Over the past seven years, it has provided young people with a meaningful platform to improve physical health, contribute to the community, and foster friendships.

Beyond being a collective journey, this program is also a personal challenge for each volunteer. With every stop along the way, participants experience self-growth, pushing their limits and gaining valuable life lessons.