South Thailand

The Southern Thailand cycling tour with redspokes commences in Bangkok. Upon your arrival, you will be transferred to our designated joining hotel. An introductory group meeting is scheduled for this evening, followed by an opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and dazzling lights of the Thai capital city.

Accommodation: Hotel

This morning we take a city bicycle tour of Bangkok. Navigating back alleys, we sidestep the hustle of traffic to uncover the historic core of the city. A highlight of our journey is a pause to explore the breathtaking Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun), a majestic structure that rises above the Chao Phraya River, adorned with intricate facades.

Known as “The River of Kings,” the Chao Phraya River serves as the lifeblood of Bangkok. Our route along its banks and the network of canals branching out offers a unique glimpse into the daily lives of the locals. While some tourists opt for longtail boat tours, we witness thousands of people relying on ferries for their city commute. Slow-moving barges transport cargo, and at the water’s edge, children engage in playful activities. Wooden dwellings, juxtaposed with towering skyscraper hotels, temples, churches, and European architecture, create a fascinating tapestry of urban life.

As the tour concludes before lunch, you have the freedom to spend the remainder of your day exploring shops and landmarks or simply immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of local street restaurants and charming cafes, savoring the delectable cuisine on offer.

Accommodation: Hotel (B)

We start the day with a 3.5-hour transfer (depending on traffic) to our cycling start point at a local temple south of the bustling beach town of Hua Hin. Our route begins on gently rolling terrain, riding along minor paved roads lined with pineapple plantations for the first 15 km. Upon reaching the Gulf of Thailand coast, we are then accompanied by blissful scenes of Pacific waves, palm-fringed shores, and fishing boats bobbing in the bay.

Around the 30 km mark, we turn inland towards Sam Roi Yot, or in English, “Three Hundred Peaks”— a fitting name for this picturesque landscape of craggy, limestone massifs jutting out of coastal plains filled with an expansive patchwork of shrimp farms. Our ride concludes at a prominent headland for lunch, after which we take a quick boat ride and a 30-minute jungle trek to reach Phraya Nakhon Cave. This isn’t just any old cave, but a deeply revered chamber housing a royal pavilion installed by one of Thailand’s most beloved former kings. After trekking and boating back to our starting point, we transfer around 45 minutes to tonight’s seaside accommodation in the district of Kui Buri.

Cycling Distance: 42km (26miles)
Total Climb: 230m (754ft)
Total Descent: 224m (734ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L,D)

Starting from the hotel, we head down the shore and quickly find ourselves on a secondary road that runs parallel to the historic railroad connecting Bangkok to the southern provinces. After around 25 km we are greeted, once again by the stunningly blue waters of the Gulf of Thailand and cycle around the twin bays of Prachuap Khiri Khan. After passing through the small coastal town of Klong Wan, at around 40 km, we make our way inland through coconut plantations which, from here on, become noticeably more prominent! We then have an unavoidable 10 km along the main road with a wide shoulder before again dipping onto quiet back roads that press up against the coastline. We end our ride at an organic coconut farm where we learn the process of growing and harvesting this energy-rich fruit so central to the lifeways of coastal Thailand. And, of course, trying some accompanied by a tasty local lunch. In the afternoon we transfer around 30-minutes to our lovely seaside resort on Baan Grood Beach, a quiet stretch of golden sands inviting us for some well-deserved relaxation!

Cycling Distance: 82km (51 miles)
Total Climb: 252m (826ft)
Total Descent: 256m (840ft)
Accommodation: Beach Resort (B,L,D)

From Baan Grood, a 45-minute vehicle transfer brings us to the next province of our journey, Chumphon. Saddling up near a small beach, today’s ride follows predominantly well-paved secondary roads that wind through a seemingly endless world of coconut and palm oil plantations. The smooth asphalt and gentle terrain allow for a fast-paced journey if you wish, while also offering a chance to reflect on the immense scale of two of Thailand’s most lucrative agricultural products. After about 50 km, we reach Ao Bo Mao Bay, where we’ll break for lunch at a beachside restaurant. We’ll then cross a bridge with scenic views of fishing boats before completing the final stretch to the beaches of Saphli, where we’ll spend the night at a simple but cosy Thai-style retreat nestled in a lush estuary.

Cycling Distance: 70km (44 miles)
Total Climb: 272m (892ft)
Total Descent: 276m (905ft
Accommodation: Beach Resort (B,L,D)

Today is a shorter ride, with the aim of arriving at our next beach resort in time for lunch and a relaxing afternoon. For the first 20 km, we continue along the coast, crossing several scenic bridges that arch over estuaries and cycling past Pak Hat Beach, which is infamous as the landing place of the Japanese army during World War II. We then arc around the town of Pak Nam, situated at the mouth of the Tha Taphap River, before arriving at the shores of Pharadonphap Beach. Its name may be hard to pronounce, but translating to “brotherhood,” it commemorates the signing of a peace treaty here between Thailand and Japan at the end of the Second World War. Today, the area remains a beautiful and peaceful location, tucked away from the usual touristy beaches that most international travelers flock to. We spend two nights here at an elegant seaside resort.

Cycling Distance: 37km (23 miles)
Total Climb: 380m (1,246ft)
Total Descent: 379m (1,243ft)
Accommodation: Beach Resort (B,L,D)

A well-deserved rest day. You can explore the local area by bike or enjoy a leisurely day on the long sandy beach. Whether lounging under the shade, exploring the local surroundings, or taking a dip in the clear blue waters, the rest day becomes a rejuvenating break – a chance to recharge our bodies and minds before we resume our cycling journey through this serene slice of Thai paradise.

There are many options for water sports such as snorkelling, diving and kayaking. You have the choice of dining in a variety of restaurants from traditional Thai to European cuisine.

Accommodation: Beach Resort(B)

We take it up a notch today, cracking a century ride into the tour’s next southern province Surat Thani, though the terrain is very forgiving with predominantly flat, smoothly paved roads. From Pak Tako, the first 30 km are mostly inland before we are back on coastal roads, whizzing past maritime scenes of local boats and fishing contraptions dotted along the shore. A few kilometres of roads lined with palm trees and shrubs then bring us to Lamae Beach before heading back inland where, once again, oil palm and coconut plantations reign supreme. In the distance, towering karsts begin to appear above the plains and, by around 75 km, we are pressed right up against these jungle-clad massifs. After a dash through palm oil plantations we gradually return to the ocean, saddling off at the quiet Laem Sai Beach where we stay at a rustic yet cosy Thai-style resort.

Cycling Distance: 104km (65 miles)
Total Climb: 360m (1,181ft)
Total Descent: 351m (1,151ft)
Accommodation: Resort (B,L,D)

This is our last day of coastal cycling as we follow the Gulf of Thailand riding sometimes beachside, sometimes through small fishing villages, sometimes through rubber plantations and groves where trained monkeys clamber in the trees harvesting coconuts. Tonight we stay in a quiet beach side guest house.

Cycling Distance: 103km (64 miles)
Total Climb: 319m (1,046ft)
Total Descent: 320m (1,049ft)
Accommodation: Guest House (B,L,D)

Our route today marks an important milestone, transitioning from powdery white sands to dense green jungle as we head west across the peninsula towards Khao Sok National Park. We begin the day with a quick transfer to the ancient city of Chaiya, home to one of the south’s oldest Buddhist temples, dating back more than a millennium to a time when the Srivijaya kingdom ruled this region. From here, we transfer another 30 minutes to bypass some particularly busy roads on the outskirts of Surat Thani City. Once we get in the saddle, we are immediately immersed back into a rural landscape of rubber and palm oil plantations – the backbone of the region’s agriculture. We stop for a break at an intriguing cave temple at around 20 km before settling in for the remaining distance towards the edge of Khao Sok National Park, with its rugged, rainforest-covered mountains drawing ever nearer. Before rolling into the day’s hotel, we make a worthwhile detour to the top of an embankment overlooking Cheow Lan Lake, a massive human-made reservoir with karsts rising out of the emerald green waters.

Cycling Distance: 60km (37 miles)
Total Climb: 319m (1,046ft)
Total Descent: 320m (1,049ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L,D)

Our final ride on the Thai mainlands leads us through picturesque villages and lush countryside, home to the world’s oldest evergreen rainforest. The excitement builds and after 65 km, we’ll take a short vehicle transfer to a pier where we’ll trade our bikes for a ferry ride to Ko Yao Noi Island. Cruising across the Andaman Sea, we soak in the coastal views before arriving at Ko Yao Noi. From the small harbour, a brief ride takes us to our beachside resort, offering a perfect end to the day. The relaxed setting of the resort provides a welcome retreat, allowing us to unwind and enjoy the island’s tranquil beauty after an exhilarating day of exploration.

Cycling Distance: 65km (40 miles)
Total Climb: 857m (2,811ft)
Total Descent: 882m (2,893ft)
Accommodation: Resort (B,L,D)

This morning we have a short but sweet ride on Koh Yao Noi, cycling across the hilly interior before a zip down the west coast to reach the pier to Phuket. Away from the beach resorts, the island is defined by rural southern Thai Muslim communities tending to rice paddies, rubber trees, coconut palms, and fisheries. After crossing to Phuket by boat, we’ll get back in the saddle for the tour’s final ride. We’ll explore the island’s quiet northeast, where rubber plantations and craggy headlands line our route. We’ll conclude with a local lunch and then transfer to our resort on Phuket’s lively west coast. The afternoon is free for relaxing before we meet for a farewell dinner.

Cycling Distance: 42km (26 miles)
Total Climb: 892m (2926ft)
Total Descent: 893m (2930ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L,D)

The redspokes South Thailand cycling tour wraps up today with a transfer to Phuket International Airport, signaling the end of our incredible journey through the stunning landscapes of southern Thailand.

(B)

Each tour requires a minimum number of participants to run

Tour status updates automatically as bookings are received

Do not book flights until the tour status is marked Guaranteed

Tour Status Definitions

• Guaranteed – Tour is confirmed and open for booking
• Guaranteed – Limited – Confirmed, with limited spaces remaining
• Available – 2 More to Guarantee – Needs two more bookings to confirm
• Available – Open for booking but not yet confirmed
• Contact – Please get in touch to discuss availability
• Fully Booked – No places remaining

Booking & Payments

• A £350 deposit confirms your place on the tour
• Deposits are refundable until the tour becomes Guaranteed
• Final balance is due 56 days before the tour start date
• By booking, you agree to our booking conditions (please read in full)

Small Group Note

For groups of fewer than four participants, the guide may lead from the support vehicle rather than cycling with the group, ensuring full logistical and guiding support.

Fully supported cycling holiday

• Support vehicle for luggage transport and rider assistance
• Accommodation throughout the tour (twin share unless stated)
• Most meals (see itinerary using the BLD key below)
• Snacks and mineral water on cycling days
• Airport transfers on the first and last day of the tour
• Boat transfers from Phang Nga to Koh Yao Noi, and from Koh Yao Noi to Phuket
• English-speaking local guide(s)
• Mechanical assistance for minor bike repairs

Meal Key (used in the itinerary)

• B = Breakfast
• L = Lunch
• D = Dinner
• Example: B, L means breakfast and lunch are included that day.
• Special dietary requirements can usually be catered for with advance notice. Please advise us at the time of booking.

• International flights
• Travel insurance (mandatory)
• Visa fees (if applicable)
• Alcoholic drinks
• Meals not specified in the itinerary
• Tips for guides and support staff
• Bike hire
• Cycle helmets
• Single room supplements

Tour Start

• Start location: Bangkok – Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)
• Airport transfers provided on the tour start date, regardless of arrival time
• Early arrivals may need to wait for hotel check-in (subject to availability)

Tour End

• End location: Phuket – Phuket International Airport (HKT)
• Airport transfers provided if departing on the final tour day
• Extra nights and transfers can be arranged at additional cost

Flights

• International flights are not included
• We recommend booking a multi-destination flight arriving in Bangkok on Day 1 of the Itinerary and departing from Phuket on the final day of the tour.

• We choose accommodation based on comfort rather than luxury.
• Our prices are based on sharing a twin room. Should you wish to have a room to yourself there is a single supplement option on most of our tours.
• Most of the accommodation for this trip is in comfortable beachside hotels, boutique resorts and rural guesthouses.
• Expect reliable comfort with occasional simpler nights inland.

Meals on Tour
Most meals are included in your tour price, except on rest days and a few other occasions.
Please check the itinerary for all meals provided.

Dietary Requirements
If you have any special dietary needs, please let us know at the time of booking.
We can cater for most diets, but advance notice is essential to ensure the best experience.

Taste of Southern Thailand

• Southern Thai cuisine is known for its bold flavours, fragrant herbs and spices, and abundant use of fresh seafood and coconut. Compared with northern or central Thai food, dishes in the south are often spicier and more aromatic, reflecting Malay and coastal influences.

Typical dishes you may encounter:

• Gaeng Tai Pla – traditional southern fish curry with vegetables and fermented fish sauce
• Gaeng Som – sour and spicy turmeric fish curry
• Massaman Curry – rich coconut curry with potatoes and peanuts, influenced by Malay cuisine
• Tom Yum Goong – hot and sour prawn soup with lemongrass and lime
• Pad Thai – stir-fried noodles (widely available throughout Thailand)
• Fried rice with chicken, pork or vegetables
• Fresh seafood – grilled prawns, fish, squid and crab, especially near coastal towns
• Southern-style grilled chicken and market skewers
• Roti with curry – a popular southern street food snack
• Stir-fried vegetables including morning glory and seasonal greens
• Fresh tropical fruit – pineapple, mango, watermelon, papaya and dragon fruit
• Vegetarian and tofu dishes are widely available
• Many curries and stir-fries can be adapted on request

Drinks you may encounter:

• Fresh fruit smoothies and juices
• Thai iced tea and iced coffee
• Coconut water straight from the coconut
• Locally brewed Thai beer (e.g. Chang, Singha, Leo)
• Bottled water (provided on cycling days)
• Herbal teas

Things to Know

• Food hygiene standards are generally good
• Southern Thai dishes can be quite spicy, but can usually be made milder if requested
• Tap water is not recommended for drinking (bottled water is widely available)

Support Vehicle

• A support vehicle accompanies the group throughout the tour
• Transports main luggage between overnight stops
• Available for rest breaks or if you need a lift
• Typically stops every 20 km / 12 miles

On-Ride Support

• Guides carry tools for minor repairs
• You only need a small daypack while riding

Helmet Policy

• Helmets are mandatory while cycling
• Helmet hire cannot be guaranteed locally
• You must bring your own helmet

Yes, the tour is suitable for most type of bikes.

We strongly recommend that you have your bike fully serviced before going on the tour. Ensure that wheel spokes are adjusted, greasing all bearings, check gear and brake cables, tighten all nuts and bolts, check chain, quick release clamp and tyres. Put in a new inner tubes and check wheel rims aren’t worn.

We recommend that you take the following items with you.

• Multi tool
• Tyre levers
  
• Pump
  
• Spare inner tubes
  
• Spare spokes
  
• Check with your bike shop for disc/ brake pads
  
• A few links for your chain
  
• Spares for any unique things for your bikes i.e fluid or bleed kit.

Your bike must be carried as part of your luggage allowance. The weight of a bike in cardboard box is about 15-20kg, so please bear this in mind when packing for the trip and you may have to pay for excess luggage.

• The local currency in Thailand is the Thai Baht (THB). You’ll need baht for all purchases, as foreign currencies are not accepted in shops, restaurants, or markets.
• What to Bring: We recommend bringing around £200 / $270 in your local currency for exchange
• A Visa or Mastercard debit/credit card for ATM access and backup
• Travelers from the UK, EU, US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand should bring USD or Euros, as these are the most widely accepted for exchange.
• Where to Exchange: You’ll find ATMs and currency exchange desks at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport.
• Exchange a small amount on arrival (for taxis or first-day expenses)
• Better rates are available at exchange offices and banks in central Bangkok
• Throughout the tour, your redspokes guide will help you find ATMs and reliable exchange points in towns and cities along the route to Phuket.

Spending Money

• Your spending will vary depending on your preferences for dining, drinks, and shopping, but £200 / $270 is generally more than enough for the 14-day tour.

Staff Tipping

• Tipping is a well-accepted way to thank your local support team. While it’s not obligatory, it is a kind gesture for excellent service.
• We recommend tipping as a group at the end of the tour. The guide will then fairly distribute the total among the local crew.
• Suggested Amount £60–£80 per person or$80–$100 equivalent
• Note: Tips are not part of wages. redspokes ensures fair pay for all staff. Tipping is simply a personal way to show your appreciation.

• Bike hire or e-bike hire
• Single room supplement
• Extra nights before or after the tour
• Additional airport transfers
• Optional excursions or rest-day activities

• Solo travellers are very welcome
• Prices are based on twin-share accommodation
• We will pair solo travellers with someone of the same gender where possible
• Single rooms are usually available for an additional charge

• A valid passport is required
• Passport must usually be valid for at least 6 months after return
• Visa requirements vary by nationality and can change
• You are responsible for checking current entry requirements
• Government travel advice websites are the most reliable source

Travel Insurance

Mandatory for all participants and must cover:

• Medical expenses and emergency evacuation
• Cycling and adventure activities
• Loss or damage to luggage and hired equipment
• Trip cancellation or curtailment
• Insurance should be taken out at the time of booking

Health & Vaccinations

• Consult your GP or travel clinic at least 8 weeks before departure
• Follow advice from official travel health authorities

In terms of clothing this is clearly up to you and we can only supply a rough guide as to what to take. This guide is entirely flexible and should be tailored to your specific needs.

• Cycle Helmet  (mandatory and to be worn at all times when cycling)
• Sunglasses
• Water bottles or camelbak
• Base layer tops
• Fleece jacket/ pullover
• Waterproof cycling jacket (breathable fabric)
• Padded cycling shorts
• Cycle shoes/ Trekking shoes
• Lightweight socks & heavyweight socks
• Trekking Shorts
• Trousers
• T-shirts– lightweight
• Long-sleeved shirt
• Fingerless cycling gloves
• Buff
• Towel
• Lipbalm/ sunscreen
• Flip-flops/ Sandals

Our guides carry first aid supplies, however we recommend you bring your own first aid kit which should contain the following item; 

• Paracetamol/ Ibuprofen (or whatever you prefer for headache)
• Lomotil or Diacalm
• Rehydration salts (Dioralite)
• Antiseptic cream
• Throat lozenges
• Plasters (band aids)
• Nasal spray
• Eye drops
• Ear plugs
• Anti bacterial hand wash
• Antiseptic wet wipes
• Insect Repellent

Miscellaneous

• Energy Bars (gels, power bars)
• Energy/recovery drinks
• Camera

• Plug Types: A, B and C
• Voltage: 220V
• Frequency: 50Hz
• Most hotels in Thailand accept a mix of flat two-pin (US-style) and round two-pin (European-style) plugs. However, socket types can vary, particularly in smaller guesthouses.
• We recommend bringing a universal travel adaptor. If your devices are from the UK (Type G plug), you will definitely need an adaptor.

• Kingdom of Thailand – Capital: Bangkok
• Population 69 million
• Area 513,115 sq km (198,115 sq miles)
• Major language Thai
• Major religion Buddhism
• Life expectancy Life expectancy: 71 years (men), 79 years (women)
• Currency baht