Dive into Vietnam’s past on a sporting adventure along the Ho Chi Minh Trail. Follow the historic roads that meander from coastal plains to luscious highlands, from bustling cities to quiet villages.
Get off your bike to explore Halong Bay in a kayak, meet the locals and enjoy the beauty of the Vietnamese coastline practising snorkeling.
If you want to see and experience much more than an average tourist in Vietnam, you should definitely read this article. Do not forget, though, that British travellers need a visa for Vietnam.
From Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi
The cycling journey from Ho Chi Minh City, in the south of Vietnam, to Hanoi, in the north, is 787 kilometres long and takes about 15 days.
This route, known as Highway 1, leads you through different regions and therefore offers plenty of opportunities to discover new landscapes, and places to eat and experience different cultures.
If you start your journey in Ho Chi Minh City, you will be able to discover the lesser-known details about the Vietnam War.
Wander around the War Remnants Museum and crawl through the Cu Chi tunnels. The tunnels were crucial for communication during the Vietnam War, but also for hiding people and storing food.
Besides a good number of very challenging mountain ascents, this route also offers you some well-deserved rest. Where else can you better relax than on the Nha Trang coastline?
Take a boat trip to discover the pristine surrounding islands, where you can snorkel among colourful fish and coral. After a few nights in Nha Trang, Hanoi you will finally reach Hanoi.
A real highlight of Hanoi is the iconic Halong Bay. Picturesque limestone cliffs, full of luscious vegetation and hidden caves emerge from beautiful, crystal-clear, waters. You can explore the zone by joining a boat cruise or, even better, by practising some kayaking.
Ho Chi Minh Trail
While the Highway 1 route is one of Vietnam’s most popular cycling routes, the Ho Chi Minh Trail is much quieter and has more spectacular views.
Ho Chi Minh Trail is the name of the road system that was built through the North of Vietnam during the Vietnam War. The function of the road was for North Vietnam to support the National Liberation Front in its fight against the government of South Vietnam. At the time of the war, food, petrol, weapons, vehicles and military supplies were transported through this road system.
Today, the Ho Chi Minh Trail is a highway going through lovely pretty towns, endless rice fields and lush vegetation. The route is very hilly, but it is well worth the effort.
Enjoy beautiful landscapes.
On the Ho Chi Minh Trail, near Hue, you can find the Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park. The largest cave in the world, Son Doong, is located here. You can also climb to Paradise Cave or explore the famous film location of Kong Skull Island.
Immerse yourself in Vietnamese history
The Ho Chi Minh Trail also offers the opportunity to discover Vietnamese history. For example, visit the military cemetery in Truong Son or the Vinh Moc Tunnel, a famous bomb shelter during the Vietnam War.
Apply for your visa to Vietnam on time
Since 2018, you can apply for a Vietnam visa online. By doing so, you will avoid the long queues at the airport as well as the cost of the stamping fee.
The validity period of the e-visa Vietnam is 30 days from the specified arrival date.