Essential Information - Cambodia to Vietnam
Angkor to Ho Chi Minh City
Before booking your holiday with us, please check the status of your chosen tour. We strongly advise against booking any flights or making other travel arrangements until the tour is marked as Guaranteed.
To confirm your place, simply pay the deposit. This deposit can be refunded at any time until the tour status changes to "Guaranteed". Your final balance will be due 56 days before the tour start date.
When you book, you are agreeing to our booking conditions – please take a moment to read them in full.
Each tour requires a minimum number of participants to go ahead. As bookings come in, the status will update from Available, to 2 More to Guarantee, and finally to Guaranteed once the minimum is met. You can always check the current status on the ‘Dates and Prices’ section of the tour page.
Tour status definitions:
✅ Guaranteed – The tour is confirmed and open for booking.
✅ Guaranteed – Limited – Confirmed to run, but only a few spaces left.
⏳ Available – 2 More to Guarantee – Tour is open but needs just 2 more bookings to confirm.
🟢 Available – Open for booking but not yet confirmed to run.
📩 Contact – Please get in touch if you're interested in this tour.
❌ Fully Booked – This tour is no longer available.
Once a tour is marked Guaranteed, you can confidently go ahead with booking your flights and making travel plans. We don’t cancel trips once they reach guaranteed status, except in very rare and exceptional circumstances.
🚐 Support Vehicle – Full vehicle support throughout the tour
🏨 Accommodation – Comfortable local stays each night
🍽️ Meals – Most meals included (see Trip Notes for details)
🚰 Snacks & Water – Refreshments provided during cycling days
✈️ Airport Transfers – Provided on the first and last day of the tour
🧑🏫 Local Guides – Experienced, English-speaking professional guides
🛫 International Flights
Please arrange your own flights to and from the tour destination.
🍷 Alcoholic Beverages
Alcohol is not included in the tour package.
🍽️ Unlisted Meals
Meals not outlined in the itinerary are at your own expense.
🎟️ Entrance Fees
Entry to touristic sites is not covered.
🛂 Visa Fees
Visa arrangements and fees are the responsibility of each traveller.
🛡️ Travel Insurance
Must be arranged independently before departure.
💰 Tips
Gratuities for guides and support staff are not included.
🚲 Bike Hire
Available on request for an additional fee.
✈️ Arrival & Departure
The tour begins in Siem Reap, Cambodia, and ends in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
You will need to arrive on Day 1 of the itinerary. Your departure flight should be booked for the final day of the itinerary. We understand that Redspokes riders travel from all over the world—whatever time you land at Siem Reap airport on the tour start date, you (and your luggage) will be transferred to the joining hotel.
Please note: if you arrive before midday, your room may not be immediately available and you may need to wait for check-in.
If you wish to arrive earlier or extend your stay after the tour, Redspokes can help arrange additional accommodation and airport transfers at extra cost.
Our tour price does not include international flights. You will need to book multi-destination flights:
Inbound: Arrive in Siem Reap (REP)
Outbound: Depart from Ho Chi Minh City (SGN)
For flight options and pricing, we suggest checking:
www.kayak.com
www.opodo.co.uk
💱 Currency & Spending Money
Currency in Cambodia & Vietnam
Cambodia: The local currency is the Cambodian Riel (KHR), but the US Dollar (USD) is widely accepted—especially in tourist areas. Prices are often listed in USD, and change may be given in a mix of USD and Riel.
Vietnam: Once across the border, the Vietnamese Dong (VND) becomes the primary currency. USD is not widely accepted, so you’ll need to exchange or withdraw VND for purchases.
💡 In Cambodia, Riel is typically used for small items like snacks or tuk-tuk rides. In Vietnam, all transactions are in VND.
What to Bring
Travellers from the US: Bring clean, undamaged USD in small denominations ($1, $5, $10, $20).
Travellers from the UK, Canada, Europe, Australia, NZ: Bring USD, or exchange your local currency into USD before departure.
Torn or heavily worn notes may not be accepted.
Where to Exchange
ATMs: Widely available in Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, and major Vietnamese towns. Many dispense USD in Cambodia. A withdrawal fee may apply.
Currency Exchange: Licensed money changers offer good rates. Avoid airport exchange desks where rates are typically poor.
Cards: Accepted in some hotels and restaurants in larger cities, but cash is essential—especially in rural areas.
Let your bank know you’re travelling to avoid card blocks.
Suggested Spending Money
Spending varies based on your preferences, but we recommend budgeting £260 / $350 for the 14-day tour, which should be more than sufficient.
Here’s a sample of local costs:
Item Cambodia (USD) Vietnam (VND)
Mid-range meal $10–$30 250,000–700,000 VND
Domestic beer (0.5L) $0.75–$2.00 20,000–50,000 VND
Imported beer (330ml) $1.50–$4.00 40,000–100,000 VND
Bottled water (1.5L) $0.50–$1.00 10,000–25,000 VND
Coke/Pepsi (330ml) $0.50–$1.50 12,000–35,000 VND
Tipping (Optional but Expected)
Tipping is customary and greatly appreciated. While always at your discretion, we recommend:
$70–$100 per person for the Cambodia team
$30–$40 per person for the Vietnam team
(Tips should be paid in USD.)
💡 Tips are not part of staff wages and are considered a personal thank-you.
Your guide will collect and fairly distribute tips amongst the wider crew.
🚐 Support Vehicle & Bike Repairs
Throughout the tour, you’ll have the reassurance and convenience of a back-up vehicle—typically a jeep or minibus. This support vehicle will:
Carry your main luggage between overnight stops
Be available for passengers who wish to rest
Meet the group approximately every 12 miles (20 km) during each ride day
Our tour leader carries a comprehensive tool kit and is on hand to assist with routine bike repairs. However, we cannot guarantee that we will be equipped for all issues, particularly for bikes brought from home.
🔧 If you’re bringing your own bike, it is essential that it is in excellent working condition. We strongly recommend a full service by a professional bike shop before travel.
All you’ll need to carry while cycling is a daypack or small pannier for essentials like your camera, snacks, and sunscreen.
For this tour, we have the Cannondale Trail 4 available in a range of sizes (in Cambodia) and the Trek Marlin 5 (in Vietnam). In addition, we offer the Giant Stance Ebike and the Giant Talon Ebike, electric-assist mountain bikes (across both countries), ideal for riders who want a little extra support on climbs. All bike options come with spare parts (tubes, tyres, chains, etc.) included in the rental price. These will be carried in the support vehicle, along with a tool kit and track pump.
The bikes are equipped with flat pedals as standard. If you prefer to use SPD or clip-in pedals, you are welcome to bring your own, along with your cycling shoes and cleats. You're also welcome to bring your own saddle if you have a personal preference.
If you're comfortable doing simple repairs yourself, you're encouraged to carry a small repair kit with you. This can help avoid delays if the support vehicle or team is some distance away. Each bike will come fitted with one water bottle cage.
Please note that you must bring your own cycle helmet, as helmets are not included in the bike hire. Hire or purchase options cannot be guaranteed. Wearing a helmet is mandatory at all times while cycling. Failure to do so is at your own risk and may also impact the validity of your travel insurance.
Giant Talon E3 - Or similar - A sleek ALUXX aluminum hardtail with 100 mm suspension.
🚲 Bike Hire
Prefer not to bring your own bike? No problem — bike hire is available at an additional cost.
🛏️ Single Room Supplement
Traveling solo and want your own space? You can opt for a private room (subject to availability).
🏨 Extra Accommodation
Arriving early or staying on after the tour? We can book additional nights for you.
🚐 Airport Transfers
We can also arrange your airport transfers before or after the trip.
💬 You can add any of these options when booking, or contact us later — we're happy to help.
We welcome a wide mix of cyclists on our tours—from solo adventurers to couples and friends. Our pricing is based on twin-shared accommodation.
If you’re joining the tour on your own, we’ll pair you with a fellow solo traveller of the same gender in your group. It’s a great way to meet like-minded people and share the experience.
🛏️ Prefer your own space?
A single room is available on most tours for an additional cost. This can be selected when booking or requested later (subject to availability).
Most meals are included in your trip price, with a few exceptions on non-cycling days. Please refer to the itinerary for full details.
🌱 Special Diets
If you have any dietary requirements, please let us know at the time of booking. Most diets can be catered for — just make sure to advise us in advance.
🇰🇭 Cambodian Cuisine
A typical Cambodian meal features:
🥣 Soup
🥗 Salad
🐟 Fish dish (often steamed in coconut curry, like the national dish Fish Amok)
🥬 Vegetables & 🍚 Rice
🍧 Dessert of sticky rice & tropical fruit
Freshwater fish is the main source of protein, alongside pork and chicken. Popular drinks include:
☕ Iced coffee with sweetened condensed milk
🥥 Fresh coconut water — safe and refreshing!
🇻🇳 Vietnamese Cuisine
Vietnamese meals are flavourful and fresh, typically including:
🍜 Soup with rice noodles (a national staple)
🍖 Meat, fish & vegetable dishes
🌿 Aromatic herbs: basil, mint, lemongrass, coriander
🍰 Desserts made with fresh fruit or sweet cakes
Common drinks include:
🍵 Tea & coffee
🍺 Local beer
🍶 Rice wine
Snacks like spring rolls, rice paper wraps, and noodle dishes are found everywhere — perfect fuel for cyclists!
Travel insurance is mandatory for all redspokes participants and must cover the entire duration of your tour.
📋 Your policy must include cover for:
🚑 Personal injury & medical expenses
⚰️ Death & repatriation
🚁 Emergency rescue (including helicopter or aircraft evacuation)
🎒 Loss or theft of luggage and equipment
❌ Trip cancellation or curtailment
🔧 Damage to or breakage of hired equipment
(Any such costs must be paid directly to our local agents at the time of the incident and claimed back through your insurer)
⚠️ Important Notes:
Ensure your policy does not exclude any activities on your trip, such as cycling or adventure travel.
We strongly recommend taking out travel insurance at the time of booking to ensure you’re protected in the event of cancellation.
All insurance claims must be made directly through your provider.
💬 Have questions? Feel free to contact us for further guidance.
At redspokes, we choose accommodation based on comfort rather than luxury to ensure a welcoming and relaxed experience at the end of each day.
🛏️ Room Sharing
Prices are based on twin-share accommodation.
If you're travelling solo, we’ll pair you with another guest of the same gender.
Prefer your own space? A single supplement is available on most tours (subject to availability).
👉 See our Dates & Prices for full details.
🏠 Where You’ll Stay
Comfortable hotels and guesthouses
Many with en-suite facilities and air conditioning
All selected for their character, location, and hospitality
If you have any questions about the accommodation or would like to request a single room, feel free to contact us or let us know when booking.
This tour is suitable for a tough hybrid or mountain bike. Whichever you choose, your bike must be in excellent working condition to handle the terrain comfortably.
🔧 Pre-Trip Bike Servicing
We strongly recommend a full service before travel. Please ensure:
All bearings are greased
Wheel spokes are tensioned
Gear and brake cables are fully functional
All nuts and bolts are tightened
Chain, tyres, and quick-release clamps are checked
New inner tubes are installed
Wheel rims are not overly worn
💡 Ask your local bike shop for a pre-tour check-up if in doubt.
🧰 What to Bring
Pack these essential items to keep your bike rolling:
✅ Multi tool
✅ Tyre levers
✅ Pump
✅ Spare inner tubes
✅ Spare spokes
✅ A few links for your chain
✅ Brake pads (check with your shop for disc or rim compatibility)
✅ Any special tools, fluids, or parts unique to your bike (e.g. bleed kit)
📦 Travelling with Your Bike
Your bike will need to be packed as part of your luggage allowance
A bike in a cardboard box typically weighs 15–20kg
Be aware you may incur excess baggage charges depending on your airline
If you prefer not to bring your own bike, bike hire is available—just request this when booking.
You must hold a valid passport in order to travel. Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months from the date of your return from any overseas destination.
Visa and entry requirements for most countries can and do change from time to time and so we strongly recommend that you consult the government travel website for where your passport was issued.
For UK nationals, please visit the gov.uk website for up to date information about entry requirements for Cambodia and Vietnam. The website also provides vaccination advice as well as the option to sign up for Alerts so that you are aware if requirements have changed.
Cambodia E-Visa Information
For most of our international customers, Cambodia offers a convenient e-visa system, making the visa application process straightforward and accessible.
✅ Who needs a visa?
You can check whether you need a visa on the official Cambodia e-visa portal.
📌 Important notes
Please travel with the same passport that you used for your e-visa application and also carry a printed copy of your e-visa with you.
Vietnam E-Visa Information
🚧 Border Crossing Info
You will cross the border from Cambodia at Prek Chak International Border Checkpoint into Vietnam at Ha Tien Border Crossing. This is a land crossing; your visa for Vietnam must be valid for entry at a land border .
Apply online through the official Vietnam e-visa portal
During the application, select Ha Tien Landport as your port of entry.
Important: Ensure that "Ha Tien Landport" is specified as your entry point on the e-Visa. If a different entry port is listed, you may be denied entry at Ha Tien.
We strongly recommend that you consult your GP or a local Travel Health Clinic at least 8 weeks before departure for advice on general health precautions for travel to your destination.
You should also review guidance from the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) or equivalent authority in your country, such as the CDC (USA), Travelvax (Australia), or Public Health Agency of Canada.
☀️ Cambodia
Cambodia has a tropical climate with two main seasons: dry and wet.
November – January
Start of the dry season. Expect comfortable temperatures (25–26°C), low humidity, and plenty of sunshine – ideal for cycling.
➤ You may encounter a brief shower in early November.
August
This falls in the wet season, but rain usually arrives in the late afternoon or overnight, meaning it rarely disrupts our rides.
➤ The countryside becomes especially lush and scenic during this time.
🌦️ Vietnam
Vietnam’s weather varies by region with both tropical and temperate zones.
South Vietnam (e.g. Ho Chi Minh City)
Dry Season: November – April
Wet Season: May – October
Temperatures remain consistently warm year-round (avg. 27°C).
North Vietnam
Four distinct seasons.
Cool winters (can drop below 20°C) and hot summers (above 30°C).
➤ Bring layers if you're sensitive to changes in temperature.
🚴♂️ Good to Know:
Cycling is enjoyable year-round thanks to our carefully planned routes.
Wet season rides are lush, cooler, and often quieter in terms of tourism.
Light waterproofs and breathable clothing are always a good idea.
Staying Hydrated on Hot Rides – 6 Tips for Cyclists
As a cycling company, we know how important proper hydration is—especially when you're out riding in hot conditions. Below are some general hydration tips that riders find helpful for staying fuelled and feeling strong on the bike.
Please note: We are not medical professionals and this information should not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Each cyclist is different, so if you have specific health concerns or conditions, it is always best to consult your doctor and adhere to their advice.
1. Prioritize Gut Health
Why it matters: A healthy gut = better absorption of water and nutrients.
How to do it: Fuel your microbiome with probiotics (like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut) and prebiotics (like garlic, onions, and bananas) to keep your digestion and hydration on point.
2. Time Your Hydration
Why it matters: When you drink can be just as important as how much.
How to do it: Start your day with a big glass of water—add a splash of lemon or a pinch of sea salt for extra hydration power.
3. Hydrate Beyond Water
Why it matters: Water isn’t the only way to hydrate.
How to do it: Mix in coconut water, bone broth, or other nutrient-rich drinks to stay hydrated and replenish lost electrolytes—especially during long rides or after sweating.
4. Don’t Forget the Minerals
Why it matters: Minerals like sodium, calcium, and magnesium help your body retain water.
How to do it: Eat mineral-rich foods like salted nuts, seeds, and dairy—or consider a quality mineral supplement if needed.
5. Absorb Water Better
Why it matters: Guzzling water too quickly can flush out nutrients and be poorly absorbed.
How to do it: Sip consistently throughout the day. Add a pinch of sea salt to your bottle, and include water-rich foods like watermelon, cucumbers, and pineapple.
6. Keep Your Electrolytes in Check
Why it matters: Electrolytes help regulate fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contractions.
How to do it: Eat foods high in potassium and magnesium like bananas, avocados, and leafy greens. Add electrolyte tablets or a pinch of sea salt to your water, especially after intense sweat sessions.
This is a flexible guide — please tailor it to your own needs. The weather is typically warm and humid, so lightweight cotton clothing is ideal.
🚴♀️ Cycling Essentials
🪖 Helmet (mandatory — must be worn while cycling)
🕶️ Sunglasses
🚰 Water bottles or CamelBak
👟 Lightweight trekking shoes or cycling footwear
🧤 Fingerless cycling gloves
👖 Padded cycling shorts
🩳 Baggy shorts (required in some areas)
🧥 Waterproof cycling jacket (breathable fabric)
👕 Clothing
👕 T-shirts
👔 Long-sleeved shirt
👖 Long cotton trousers
🩱 Swimwear
🧥 Fleece jacket or pullover
🧢 Sun hat
🧣 Buff / scarf
👗 Modest clothing to cover shoulders and knees (temples & holy sites)
🧰 Personal Gear
🔦 Torch or headlamp (+ spare batteries/bulbs)
🧴 Strong sunscreen / lip balm
🦟 Insect repellent
🧼 Antibacterial hand wash / antiseptic wet wipes
💧 Rehydration salts (e.g. Dioralyte)
🩹 Blister pads & plasters
💊 Painkillers (Paracetamol / Ibuprofen)
💊 Diarrhoea medication (Lomotil / Diacalm)
😷 Throat lozenges
👃 Nasal spray
👁️ Eye drops
👂 Ear plugs
🧴 Antiseptic cream
🍫 Energy & Extras
🍫 Energy bars, gels or snacks
🧃 Energy / recovery drinks
📷 Camera
💡 Note: Our guides carry basic first aid, but bringing your own small kit ensures you’re prepared for minor issues during the ride.
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
🇰🇭 Kingdom of Cambodia
Capital: Phnom Penh
Population: 16 million (UN, 2012)
Area: 181,035 sq km (69,898 sq miles)
Currency: Cambodian Riel (KHR)
Major Language: Khmer
Major Religion: Buddhism
Life Expectancy:
👨 Men: 66 years
👩 Women: 71 years
🇻🇳 Socialist Republic of Vietnam
Capital: Hanoi
Population: 92 million
Area: 329,247 sq km (127,123 sq miles)
Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND)
Major Language: Vietnamese
Major Religion: Buddhism
Life Expectancy:
👨 Men: 73 years
👩 Women: 81 years
Our professional cycling tops are designed with three rear elasticated pockets to give you plenty of space for your cycling essentials and comes with a silicone bottom hem. Lined with COOLMAX ® to keep you cool and comfortable and ensure moisture wicking. Available in varies sizes so please refer to size charts for more information.
🙏 Cultural Etiquette & Behaviour
When travelling in Cambodia and Vietnam, showing respect for local customs and traditions is deeply appreciated and will enrich your experience. Here's a quick guide to help Western travellers navigate social norms:
👚 Modest Clothing
Temples & Holy Sites: Shoulders and knees must be covered. Lightweight trousers and sleeved shirts are ideal.
Casual Wear: Shorts and vests are fine for cycling and tourist areas but should be modest—avoid overly tight or revealing outfits.
Swimwear: Only appropriate at the beach or pool. Cover up when walking to and from.
🙇 Polite Behaviour
Remove shoes before entering homes, temples, or pagodas.
Do not touch people's heads or point your feet at others or religious objects—this is considered disrespectful.
Use both hands or your right hand when giving or receiving something (e.g., money or gifts).
Public displays of affection are frowned upon; a handshake is usually the most physical contact in public.
🗣️ Interactions
A smile and polite greeting go a long way! Learning a few basic phrases in Khmer or Vietnamese is always welcomed.
Remain calm and respectful in conversations—raising your voice is considered rude.
Always ask before taking someone's photograph, especially in rural or religious settings.
🛕 Respect Sacred Places
Behave quietly in temples and religious sites.
Never sit on Buddha statues or turn your back toward them when taking photos.
Donations are appreciated but not expected—do so discreetly.
If you need assistance or wish to discuss the tour, please feel free to call us on +44 (0) 1463 417707.
Alternatively, you can email us on office@redspokes.co.uk for more information on this adventure holiday.
Key Stats
Moderate
31 miles
1,050 ft
Days
Tour Features
- Siem Reap: gateway to Angkor Archaeological Park.
- Angkor Wat: magnificent temple complex.
- Phnom Penh: Silver Pagoda, Wat Phnom, Tuol Sleng.
- Tra Vinh: floating markets and riverside communities
- Ho Chi Minh City: vibrant cultural hub
- Cu Chi tunnels: historic subterranean network

Customer Testimonial
"The Mekong Delta was beautiful and unforgettable. It was led by knowledgable guides who gave us unique personal insights into their respective countries. The transfer between both countries and different..."
Angela White