Is Vietnam your next destination for a cycle tour in Asia? First of all, you’ve made a great choice! Vietnam is a spectacular country to explore off the tourist trail, especially on two wheels. But planning the perfect trip abroad isn’t always a simple job when there’s a bike involved.

With Grasshopper Adventures, you can leave everything to our expert team. We are the leader in Asia bike tours, so we know how to make your cycling holiday in Vietnam smooth, seamless, and unforgettable. We are delighted to help you discover the best of Vietnam by bike. Our bike tours in Vietnam suit all manner of riders, from self-guided to small-group guided trips.

If you have any questions for us before booking, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. In the meantime, let us take you through some of the dos and don’ts of cycle touring Vietnam.

Things You Should Do on a Bike Tour in Vietnam

There is near limitless beauty to discover on a bicycle tour in Vietnam, be it the cultural heritage, the charming atmosphere of quaint villages, or the beautiful landscapes of the Mekong Delta.

Cycling in Vietnam can truly bring joy to your heart, especially if you keep the following points in mind…

Enjoy Time Off the Bike

You should always allow for more non-riding time than you think you will need. This is particularly true if you want to stay in a highlight location for a little longer. This extra time gives your itinerary flexibility, so you can take a rest day if you’re feeling tired, or repair your bike if it’s needed.

At worst, this buffer just means you will have extra time up your sleeve, and that’s always a good thing. This removes stress and eliminates the need to rush through what should be an enjoyable adventure. It also gives you the ability to plan a last-minute loop ride or a spontaneous trip to explore an area you hadn’t planned on seeing. If you end up wanting more riding, there’s plenty to be had, so there’s no danger of missing out.

For first-hand insight into touring this spectacular country, read a personal account of cycling Vietnam self-guided.

Focus on a Few Core Highlights and Regions

From north to south, Vietnam is a long, skinny country. Unless you have plenty of time and a steadfast determination to do it, we don’t recommend an end-to-end ride.

Of course, there are some bragging rights in completing such a long and arduous journey. But if you want the best, most pleasurable experience in a limited timeframe, you are far better off focusing your time and effort on a portion of the country that interests you.

Map out broadly achievable routes that avoid main roads, give yourself time in places that most intrigue you, and, of course, allow a little leeway for the unexpected.

Hydrate and Snack at Regular Intervals

This is a well-known habit for anyone who has spent extended time on a bike. Without a regular intake of fluids and calories, you run the risk of hitting a wall. Needless to say, this will sap the energy and enjoyment out of your experience, and can even make subsequent days more demanding. If it is particularly warm, as it can get in this part of the world, you must make sure to hydrate more than you regularly would.

Are you worried about what to pack for your trip? We cover the pitfalls of overpacking further down the page. You can also check out our list of 10 essentials for cycle touring.

Use a Bike that can Handle a Variety of Terrain

The road surfaces in Vietnam can vary quite drastically at times. For comfort in as many situations as possible, you need to have a tire size that can accommodate some variation in road surfaces. Hybrid bikes offer an ideal balance of comfort and weight. If you are opting for a drop bar bicycle, choose a disc brake option that can handle a moderate size tire — we advise a minimum of 32c or more.

Just remember that you aren’t trying to win any races. If you factor in some extra comfort, your body will thank you for it.

Go Local

Don’t let a language barrier or the fear of the unknown stop you from trying to order a snack, refreshment, or meal from a local vendor. And don’t be afraid to ask questions. You may be surprised at what you can achieve with some ad-hoc sign language and pointing. This can sometimes evolve into a full-blown conversation, albeit a pretty basic one, comprised of a few shared words. But it’s an encounter that will live with you far longer than many others.

A little bravery in communication will help you have a far richer experience while in Vietnam. You have to get beyond the ubiquitous chains of McDonald’s and Starbucks to find real experiences and memories. And it’s in these lesser-known spaces that you can find the most delicious and authentic local fare you’re likely to encounter.

Things You Shouldn’t Do on a Cycling Tour in Vietnam

We feel safe in assuming that you’re traveling a great distance to come to Vietnam for a fun, exciting time and to make lifelong memories.

To ensure this happens, try to avoid these common mistakes…

Don’t Try to Do and See Everything

Unless you have a serious amount of time — we’re talking months, not weeks — there is far too much to see and do on a single trip to Vietnam. If you try too hard to squeeze everything in, you will only scratch the surface at best. Even worse, your holiday will become a box-ticking exercise.

Rushing and skimming over everything you see will rob you of deeper connections and experiences in fascinating places. This applies even if you are not on a bike, but especially so if you are.

If you want to make the days a little more comfortable during your trip, check out our pedal-assist e-bike here.

Don’t Try to Ride Your Maximum Every Day

You may be comfortable riding 100+ kilometers a day, but remember that your cycling holiday in Vietnam is as much about the experiences off the bike as those on it. Our guess is you have traveled all this way to enjoy yourself — so focus on exactly that.

Give yourself some easy days and leeway for non-riding days so you can maintain your energy levels and explore as much off the bike as on it.

Don’t Overpack

Do you really need all those toiletries? Is that extra jacket necessary? While it can get cool in the mountains or at certain times of the year, keep in mind you are riding in the tropics! Think minimal on just about everything — with maybe the exception of socks.

When packing, focus on lightweight gear that will dry quickly so you can hand-wash clothes in the hotel sink and let them dry overnight. There are also plenty of laundry services along the way, so you don’t need to take a week’s worth of gear. Minimize electrical gadgets to the most useful ones that you are sure to use. If you are self-supported, bring a basic mini first aid kit.

You won’t need to lug around tons of water and snacks either, because you aren’t venturing out into the wilderness. You will almost certainly encounter towns and roadside vendors at regular intervals where you can stop to refuel and rehydrate.

Read our previous article Is Self-Guided for You? to find out if this approach suits your needs.

Don’t Bring Every Piece of Bike Equipment You Own

Related to the point above, if you are self-supported you will want to bring some items in case your bike needs tending to. But you don’t need to bring the whole tool shed! A multi-tool, puncture repair kit, pocket-size lubricant, and a spare tube are probably all you’re likely to need.

Local motorbike mechanics can help with basic tools and repairs if needed, and all for a tiny cost. And you can find bike stores in all the larger towns and cities. The chances are, with a well-maintained bike, you are unlikely to encounter anything more than a flat tire.

Do: Explore the Beauty of Vietnam on a Grasshopper Adventures Bike Tour

Have we inspired you to turn your dreams of a cycling tour in Vietnam into a reality?

If you’re ready for even more travel inspiration, browse our range of bike tours in Vietnam. If you’d like more information about any of our tours or Vietnam as a cycling destination, please feel free to get in touch.

When you think of Japan’s cities, where does your mind take you? Is it the megalopolis of Tokyo? The culturally rich and picturesque Kyoto? Or maybe one of the storied centers of Osaka, Hiroshima, or Kobe?

All these cities are rightfully famous and certainly worth visiting. But there’s also much to enjoy in Japan’s smaller, less well-known cities. In fact, our bike tours in Japan pass through these quieter locations off the beaten path, offering a truly authentic slice of Japanese life, culture, and history.

If you have any questions for our team of experts, please feel free to get in touch. In the meantime, join us as we explore some of the less well-known cities in Japan worth visiting.

Marvel at Historic and Charming Matsuyama

As both the capital of the Ehime Prefecture and the largest city on Shikoku, there’s plenty to discover in Matsuyama. Matsuyama-jo, a 17th-century castle, sits at the heart of the city. Built on Mount Katsuyama, the castle provides stunning views across the city. You can even catch a glimpse of the Seto Inland Sea.

Another of Matsuyama’s main attractions is the historic Dogo Onsen area. Dogo Onsen is one of Japan’s oldest hot spring resorts. Not only does it provide refreshing public baths, private rooms, tea, and traditional snacks, but it’s also a great place to learn more about the Onsen bathing culture.

Traversing the city is even a pleasurable experience thanks to a charming and punctual tram network. Whether you’re on public transport or simply walking around, you’ll soon realise that tourists are a rare sight in Matsuyama. But that just means there are more friendly locals to meet!

For getting in and out, Matsuyama has an airport with domestic and international flights as well as a collection of excellent hotels.

With all this in mind, it was easy to choose Matsuyama as one of the key stops on our Stunning Shikoku Bike Tour of Japan.

Visit Kochi’s Castle, Temple, and Beach

Also located on Shikoku, Kochi is the capital of the Kochi Prefecture. Whereas Matsuyama is in the island’s northwest corner, Kochi is in the middle of the south coast, looking out over the Pacific Ocean. Kochi is Shikoku’s third-largest city. Only Matsuyama and Takamatsu (more on this city below) are larger.

Given its modest size, Kochi has a small, friendly, and casual atmosphere. But there’s plenty more to this city than a laidback vibe. Like Matsuyama, Kochi also has a well-preserved, feudal-period castle standing proudly on a hilltop downtown. On Godaisan, another of the city’s peaks, you can find Chikurinji Temple. This is one of the 88 stops on the famous Shikoku Pilgrimage.

In addition to a lively downtown and Katsurahama beach, Kochi is also the proud home of Sakamoto Ryoma, a key figure in the Meiji Restoration. You can learn more about this local hero at the Sakamoto Ryoma Memorial Museum, a stone’s throw from Katsurahama Beach.

If you’d like to find out more about Kochi, check out the itinerary of our Japan E-Bike Tour.

Take in the Beauty of Tranquil Takamatsu

Another of Shikoku’s largest cities, Takamatsu is in the northeast of the island. It faces Okayama on the other side of the Seto Inland Sea. This city is the capital of Japan’s smallest prefecture, Kagawa. Until the opening of the Seto Ohashi Bridge in 1988, Takamatsu’s port was Shikoku’s main entry point.

The jewel in the city’s crown is the spectacular Ritsurin Koen, a beautifully landscaped garden built by feudal lords in the early Edo Period. Put simply, Ritsurin Koen is considered one of Japan’s best gardens. It’s common to hear its name mentioned in the same breath as Mito’s Kairakuen, Kanazawa’s Kenrokuen, and Okayama’s Korakuen.

Within the park’s boundaries, you can find numerous ponds, historic trees, tranquil lakes, and photogenic pavilions. The garden also uses Mount Shiun as borrowed scenery for an awe-inspiring backdrop. The islands off the coast of Takamatsu also provide some fun and fascinating day trips. Ogijima and Megijima Islands are just two standout options.

Onomichi: Starting Point of the Shimanami Kaido

This small, quaint harbor town in the Hiroshima Prefecture is primarily on the mainland of Honshu, but it spreads onto some of the neighboring islands in the Seto Inland Sea. Small ferries shuttle between downtown on Honshu and the nearby islands, creating a slow-paced, nostalgic, port-town atmosphere.

However, the bridges that make up the Shimanami Kaido also connect the mainland, the islands, and Shikoku. If you’re an avid fan of cycling in Japan and Asia, you may have some familiarity with the world-famous Shimanami Kaido cycling route. Well, Onomichi is the starting point!

The popularity of this bike trail has helped Onomichi blossom into more than the fading ship maintenance town it seemed destined to become. Learn more about this bucket-list biking trail with our Shimanami Kaido Cycling Guide.

Onomichi is also defined by its hills, so it has a cable car which is well worth a ride for the incredible views it provides. We also recommend checking out the city’s art and history museums. We think this is one of the less well-known cities in Japan worth visiting and so created a pre-tour extension option here – the Hiroshima & Onomichi Explorer extension.

Kanazawa, Home to One of Japan’s Most Beautiful Gardens

This city is on Honshu’s northern coastline and is the capital of the Ishikawa Prefecture. Kanazawa is home to some fine examples of well-preserved Edo-era architecture and impressive art museums. But the undoubted twin attractions here are Kanazawa Castle, which dates back to the 1580s, and Kenrokuen.

Kenrokuen is one of only three “perfect gardens” in Japan. Its meticulous design ensures stunning beauty in every season. For many people. Kenrokuen is the most beautiful of these perfect gardens. For that reason alone, a trip to Kanazawa is a worthy addition to any Japan itinerary.

Step into Sapporo’s Snowy Frontier Atmosphere

Located on the northern island of Hokkaido, Sapporo has as close to a frontier atmosphere as you can get in Japan. Sapporo is the capital of Hokkaido and Japan’s fifth-largest city. Of all the entries on this list, it’s the one you may have the most familiarity with.

This is also, by Japan’s standards, a young city. As recently as 1875, Sapporo’s population was an incredible seven people! Yes, seven. At the onset of the Meiji Period, the development of Hokkaido took off. Sapporo was assigned the status of an administrative center and was subsequently enlarged on the advice of overseas specialists.

As such, the city itself has a grid street system that is more familiar in the west. Given its relative freshness, Sapporo feels like a city less attached to rules and tradition, avoiding the convention and stuffiness often found in Tokyo and other larger, older cities. Sapporo feels like the perfect fit for adventurous misfits. It’s also well-known for beer, ramen, the Winter Olympics, and a thriving skiing and snow sports scene.

Discover Authentic Japan with Our Range of Bike Tours in Asia

We hope this guide to the less well-known cities in Japan worth visiting has sparked your inspiration to explore this endlessly alluring country. There’s no better way to do this than on two wheels, making memories with like-minded people, and learning about the natural and human history from a local, experienced guide.

This is exactly what our bike tours in Japan deliver. Browse our carefully curated itineraries and learn more about the amazing adventures that await. For more information about any of the tours we operate, please feel free to contact us.

Is Cambodia at the top of your list of destinations for bike tours in Asia? Having led countless cycling holidays through this incredible country, we understand why. In a crowded field of amazing destinations, Cambodia has the credentials of a front-runner.

You can take in the legendary Mekong River, spectacular temple complexes, lush forests, tropical beaches, and the emerald green rice paddies of low-lying flood plains. But you may just remember the local people, and their warmth and hospitality, even more!

At Grasshopper Adventures, we provide a range of unforgettable bike tours in Cambodia that dig beneath the surface-level experience. We have carefully crafted itineraries that explore much of what this fascinating country has to offer, including its wildlife, rice paddies, traditional villages, and ancient wonders from the 12th century’s greatest empire.

If you would like to ask us any questions about our tours, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. In the meantime, let’s inspire your upcoming adventure by looking at the best bike tours in Cambodia.

Take the Scenic Route from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap

Cambodia’s capital city — Phnom Penh — and its most popular destination — Siem Reap (and Angkor Wat) — are located in quite different parts of the country. From a cycling perspective, this presents an opportunity to take an arching route between the two, escaping the busier roads. Allowing you to have an authentic Cambodian experience that shows you what life is really like here.

Our own Bike, Hike, and Kayak Tour in Cambodia takes you on this incredible journey. Some of the highlights include:

• Eating family-cooked meals and connecting with village communities
• Pedalling peaceful palm-lined trails along the mighty Mekong River
• Kayaking among the rare and inquisitive Irrawaddy dolphins
• Hitting the water again to explore the Mekong’s breathtaking flooded forests
• Ascending to Preah Vihear’s ancient, clifftop temple ruins overlooking Cambodia and Thailand
• Soaking in the enchanting atmosphere of Siem Reap
• And who could forget exploring the spectacular temples of Angkor Wat!

If this sounds like the trip of a lifetime to you, you’re absolutely right. It is! There’s more to Cambodia than Siem Reap, and this tour will show you why!

Enjoy the Slow Road to Siem Reap from Bangkok

Our Cambodia Bike, Hike & Kayak Tour takes in the upper half of the country before culminating in Siem Reap. But there’s just as much adventure to be had approaching this gem of Cambodia from the southwest. And this is exactly what our Slow Road to Angkor Bike Tour in Cambodia and Thailand does.

Starting in Thailand’s capital, Bangkok, the tour crosses the Cambodian border on day 4. The first stop is Battambang, a provincial capital and one of the country’s largest cities. Battambang is free of the bustling crowds of a capital city and has a welcome creative streak. This is evidenced in its quirky cafes, innovative restaurants, and boutique hotels. Sometimes referred to as the rice bowl of Cambodia, Battambang is the leading rice-producing province in the region, and the lush surrounding countryside can be equally alluring.

Once arrived in Siem Reap, you can ride the shaded paths and trails winding through the spellbinding Angkor Archaeological Park. These will take you to the major temples, such as Preah Khan and Ta Prohm, as well as the Elephant Terrace. To cap your quintessential Angkor Wat visit, revel in the transcendental experience of seeing a sunrise over the world’s largest religious structure.

Hit the Road and Cycle from Angkor to Saigon

Whereas the previous bike tours skirt around the edges of Cambodia before heading to Siem Reap, cutting through the centre of the country in the direction of Vietnam is another unique and rewarding experience. Starting in Siem Reap this time, the Cycle Angkor to Saigon Bike Tour in Cambodia and Vietnam travels south and southeast through the heart of the country.

This route allows you to get off the beaten track typically taken by tourists. We visit the province of Kampong Thom, home of Sambor Prei Kuk’s pre-Angkorian temple ruins from the 7th century. Despite being slowly swallowed by the surrounding jungle, these ancient wonders are in remarkable condition for their age. Some of the structures are becoming one with trees as tentacle-like roots slowly subsume them.

A delightful ride through the quiet countryside leads you to the hustle and bustle of Phnom Penh. In addition to exploring the capital, you can also spend an afternoon cycling the peaceful Silk Islands of the Mekong River, situated just outside the city center. From here, you board an international boat and travel down the Mekong River for the Vietnam leg of this exciting bike tour.

Marvel at the Mekong River and Cambodia’s Must-See Sights

As Asia’s third-largest river, it’s no surprise that the Mekong frequently features in the best Cambodia bike tours. And what’s the best way to explore this magnificent waterway? By bike and boat, of course!

At Grasshopper Adventures, we have made this hybrid-style Mekong tour a reality! The Mekong Bike & Boat Adventure in Cambodia and Vietnam allows you to explore the banks and villages of the river on two wheels in the mornings, then return to the boat for an afternoon cruising the Mekong in style and comfort.

The Cambodian leg of this awe-inspiring journey takes in some of the country’s must-see destinations and attractions, including Phnom Penh, the Silk Islands, Siem Reap, and Angkor Wat. Everyone at Grasshopper Adventures takes huge pride in the fact that this tour ranked in first place on National Geographic’s 17 Ultimate Adventures to Inspire.

Discover the Best of Cambodia on a Grasshopper Adventures Bike Tour!

We hope this article has inspired you to take the first step toward your own cycling adventure in Cambodia. Keep in mind the information above is only an introduction, there are even more amazing sights and experiences packed into these tours.

Browse our range of bike tours in Cambodia to find the perfect fit for you. If you would like more information about any of them before booking, please feel free to contact us.

We can’t wait to welcome you to Cambodia!

Say hello to our Operations Manager, Sokthin!

Welcome to another episode of Life Behind Bars… handlebars that is!

What makes a fantastic Grasshopper Operations Manager? Well, a love of riding certainly helps, and Sokthin (pronounced Sok-tin) definitely has that, but an eye for detail and managing a diverse set of teams is where his operational talents really shine, and he’s been doing it for more than 12 years! 

When Sokthin isn’t out exploring the world by bike, he’s busy managing our guides and ground teams to make sure your adventure is as seamless as possible.  
We grabbed a brief moment in his busy day so you can discover a little bit more about him…

What do you like about working at Grasshopper?

“Aside from my passion for biking… Grasshopper has a focus on the well-being of guests, and that focus extends to the people and environment in the communities we visit. I’m proud to work with an operator that upholds those standards – And did I also mention the biking!”
 

What is the most interesting part of your job?

“Working and learning alongside people from all over the world, and of course, exploring cycle routes in exciting new destinations!
Connecting with people and nature in new corners of the world is endlessly fascinating to me.”

What do you like to do outside of work?

“I like cycling (surprise!) I also still really enjoy exploring my home country of Cambodia by bike. Getting outdoors, visiting small rural communities, and meeting interesting new characters is something I have always enjoyed, and believe I will continue to enjoy in the future.”

A couple of questions about your home country. What is your favorite food from Cambodia?

“My favorite food is fish amok, which is quite popular among visitors too. It’s a subtle and slightly sweet curry, made with fish, that is traditionally cooked and presented in a banana leaf. I’m not into very spicy or sour foods, which you may find funny because spicy and sour flavors are quite popular across the region. I suppose my tastes just developed a bit differently”

What is your favorite place to visit in Cambodia, and why?

“It’s Koh Rong Island, in the south of the country. The white sandy beaches, crystal-clear water, and tropical climate make for an island paradise and a great getaway. I may not be able to ride much there, but I can definitely relax and unwind in such an idyllic setting.”

Where would you like to travel next?

“I’m considering a trip to Chiang Mai and the surrounding countryside, in the north of Thailand. There is a lot of history and natural beauty in this area, and it’s popular among bike riders. I’d probably try and mix a little bit of work with a bit of recreation to make the most of my visit. I can’t wait!”

What’s the longest ride you have done?

“My longest ride in a single day was in December 2021, riding from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap with a group of friends. It was 314 km and took me 12 hours! I was pretty proud of that effort. I have done longer trips over multiple days, but that one takes the cake for pushing my boundaries.
Guests shouldn’t worry though, that’s not our riding style on Grasshopper tours! Our guides get a feel for the group first and set a comfortable pace accordingly, the perfect ride is one that everyone gets to enjoy.”

To wrap up on a light note, can you share a fun story from your childhood?

“I used to believe that I could fly, like a superhero in the movies. Sometimes I even tried it by jumping from high tree branches or hills. Luckily, I survived those attempts and eventually came to terms with my gravity-bound state.
Thankfully I am still here today to do what I love! Working with the most engaging and friendly bike tour guides and ground teams in the world.” 😁

Thanks for your time Sokthin!

Guests may be lucky enough to catch Sokthin on tour, working with guides and ground teams, or even out spinning the wheels around the temples of Siem Reap, Cambodia. If you’d like to experience our 5-star rated trips firsthand, make sure to check out our collection of tours.

If you have twin passions for East Asian cultures and cycling tours in Japan, you likely have some familiarity with the Shimanami Kaido. Even if you’re a cycling enthusiast with only a burgeoning interest in Asian cycling holidays, you may have encountered this term before. This is because the Shimanami Kaido has cemented a reputation as one of the most unique, beautiful, and popular biking routes not just in Japan and Asia, but the world.

At Grasshopper Adventures, we have included this renowned route in our Japan E-Bike Tours and Stunning Shikoku Bike Tours of Japan, we’ve used our experience to create this Shimanami Kaido Cycling Guide.

If you have any questions about our bike tours in Japan, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. In the meantime, please read on for more information about the iconic Shimanami Kaido cycling route.

What is the Shimanami Kaido?

The name Shimanami Kaido has become shorthand for the cycling route itself. However, the name actually refers to a 60km-long toll road connecting the country’s main island of Honshu with the smaller island of Shikoku. This is why you may also hear Shimanami Kaido referred to as the Nishiseto Expressway.

To connect Honshu and Shikoku, the route passes over six much smaller islands scattered across the Seto Inland Sea. Due to this varied geography, the route hops over water and islands via an interconnected network of paths and long-reaching, eye-catching bridges. The result is an easy-to-follow, relatively flat cycling route surrounded by spectacular scenery. It not only has plenty for the eye to feast on, but it’s also suitable for cyclists of most levels.

The island of Shikoku also features on our roundup of Top 7 Bucket List Tours

What Route Does the Shimanami Kaido Follow?

Starting in the north and heading south, the Shimanami Kaido begins in Onomichi City, Honshu, and terminates in Imabari City, Shikoku. The six islands between these two locations are Hakatajima, Ikuchijima, Innoshima, Mukaishima, Omishima, and Oshima. There are multiple routes you can take to explore these welcoming, picturesque islands. Of course, the extent of your exploration will depend on how much time you have.

If you’re looking for the simplest trail from start to finish, you can follow the blue line painted on the path itself. Running between the JR Onomichi Station and the JR Imabari Station, the blue line indicates the most straightforward route from one end of the Shimanami Kaido to the other.

For even more Japan cycling inspiration, read through our 9 Reasons to Explore Japan by E-bike.

Is the Infrastructure Set Up for Cyclists?

Absolutely! The route opened as recently as 1999, so the bridges are attractive and modern and feature dedicated cycle lanes separated from traffic. Having been maintained to a high standard, the path itself feels as safe and fresh as ever! So there is no need to worry about the conditions and you can get on with enjoying the beautiful views. It’s what makes this route perfect for a cycling holiday in Japan.

Over 150 partners participate in the Shimanami Kaido program and are dotted along the route, including guest houses, cafes, and retail shops. These rest areas welcome cyclists with open arms. You’re never too far from drinking water, local food, toilets, air pumps, bicycle stands, benches, and other conveniences. On the islands, the cycling route diverges from the expressway via ramps leading down from and up to the bridges. These will keep you separated from the traffic and have gentle inclines to suit cyclists of all levels.

How Long Does it Take to Cycle Shimanami Kaido?

You have ample opportunities to diverge from the direct blue-line route, as mentioned previously, and explore the beautiful islands between Honshu and Shikoku. As such, the length of time it takes to complete Shimanami Kaido depends entirely on the path you plan to take and how far you want to cycle each day. It’s this flexibility that makes Shimanami Kaido so appealing to cyclists from around the world.

When following the most direct route from start to finish, it’s 70km (slightly longer than the expressway) on relatively flat terrain. As such, more experienced cyclists can complete Shimanami Kaido in a day. However, to explore a little more of the islands and truly soak in the stunning scenery, we advise extending the trip over two days.

This is exactly what we do on our Stunning Shikoku and  Japan E-Bike Tours. The Shimanami Kaido represents the first two days of these multi-day adventures, with an overnight stop on Ikuchi Island, the third of the six islands. Both tours enjoy the route at this more relaxed pace, allowing you to soak in the beauty and ambiance on display at every turn.

When is the Best Time to Cycle the Shimanami Kaido?

Generally speaking, the climate in this part of Japan is quite pleasant throughout the year. However, we advise avoiding cycling in the rainy season (the end of June and early July) and the height of summer, as it can get quite hot. It’s also good to avoid the middle of winter (January) as this is not as nice for enjoying the outdoors, which is the whole point!

The ideal time to cycle Shimanami Kaido is in the spring months of March to May or autumn’s pleasurable spell between September and November. No matter when you visit Japan for your biking trip, make sure to check out these essentials for cycle touring.

Why Should I Cycle the Shimanami Kaido in a Guided Group?

The primary benefit of cycling this famous route with a guide is the knowledge they can impart. The guides at Grasshopper Adventures are bilingual and experts in the areas they lead rides through. As you progress along Shimanami Kaido, they can color everything you see with fascinating insights into the local history, culture, and geology.

And because you’ll be in a small group of other cycling enthusiasts with an interest in Japan, you’ll be among like-minded people. This combination of incredible scenery, expert insight, and great company makes the perfect recipe for an unforgettable cycling experience.

Cycle the Shimanami Kaido with Grasshopper Adventures!

We hope this introductory guide to the Shimanami Kaido has provided the information and inspiration you need to start planning your own adventure. If you would like to join an expert-led trip with the leaders in Asia bike tours then browse our range of Japan cycling tours to find the perfect trip for you.

And remember, you can always contact us for more information about any of the tours we operate, be they in Japan or other destinations throughout Asia.

When we set out to craft the best active adventures in Asia we always start with the essentials…

A fantastic cycle adventure always starts with the essentials: An experienced team of guides and hosts, well-maintained equipment, quality accommodations, immersive sights and activities, and routes that will forever be at the heart of your cycling memories.

With those in place, it’s time to take your experience from fantastic to incredible! As the world becomes increasingly connected via travel and technology we have strived to integrate the conveniences of the digital age into your journey – from finding and booking your perfect trip, to on-the-road communication, and post-trip feedback.

Now we’ve taken our next big leap into the future of travel connectivity – Introducing the Grasshopper Adventures Tour Companion App!

Now, full disclosure, it’s not going to clean the dishes or do your tax return, but it will enhance your travel experience. We use the word enhance because there’s no replacement for the essentials. You’ll still have your friendly expert guide and support team, and the companion app can’t reproduce the aroma and taste of an expertly prepared local meal, or the feeling of wind in your hair as you embark on another day of adventure.

So… What does the app actually do?

We first premiered an early Grasshopper App for our Self-guided adventurers. It was designed as a helpful digital companion in the absence of a guide, providing daily briefings, routes, and recommendations for restaurants and local sights. We were proud of our first app, and it made us the first operator in Asia to run a new generation of digitally assisted self-guided bike tours. The next step seemed natural, introduce a companion app to all our adventures. but make it even better!

The new Grasshopper App is available on all of our multi-day cycling adventures in all destinations, with the exception of customized trips, and runs smoothly on Android or Apple devices. It’s not just an upgrade from our self-guided app it’s a completely new platform and experience, offering interactive itineraries, live chat and calls, pre-trip guides and checklists, group messaging, photo sharing, and a handy location-sharing feature to coordinate meeting points or if you get separated from the group.

With a few taps of your fingers, you can review your daily schedule or the whole of your cycling adventure, access pre-trip arrangements, packing list recommendations, and information about your destination.

Self-guided customers will also receive even more information than before, including insight into exact routing, as well as text and audio sightseeing content. The Grasshopper App is essentially your pocket guide for self-guided bike tours, and now more powerful than ever. 

The chat feature makes it even easier to connect with your host and our support office, so you can confirm trip details, meeting points, start times and more, quickly and easily from your mobile phone. Whether you are exploring the highlands of Sri Lanka, cycling down the Thai Gulf coast, going on a self-guided adventure of Japan, or relaxing on the deck of our river ships, you can use the app’s Chat Assistant from anywhere to reach your guide, our support team, or receive group broadcasts from your tour hosts that will remind you of an upcoming activity.

In fact, you can also share your live location if you are separated from your group to help your host locate you. It is also handy when meeting up on day one of your trip, making missed meeting points a thing of the past!

So while the Grasshopper App is not part of any digital metaverse and won’t facilitate crypto trades. It will enhance your trip and become a staple of the Grasshopper experience, making your perfect getaway even better! 

Apart from Siem Reap and Angkor Wat, is Cambodia Worth Visiting?

Did you know that around 2.6 million tourists visit Siem Reap every year? And while it is Cambodia’s second-largest city (behind the capital Phnom Penh), there’s essentially one reason why people flock to this part of the country: Angkor Wat.

Dating back to the 12th century, Angkor Wat is the world’s largest religious structure. Its size and scale are truly breathtaking. And as Cambodia’s unofficial capital for tourism, there’s plenty more to Siem Reap than Angkor Wat. The city boasts well-preserved colonial buildings, a staggering variety of Angkor-era monuments, cultural highlights, unique museums, and Southeast Asia’s largest lake.

With so much to see and do, many travellers face a tricky question: outside of Siem Reap, is the rest of Cambodia worth visiting? The short answer is yes!

Grasshopper Adventures provide numerous bike tours in Cambodia, so we’re perfectly placed to show you everything this fascinating country has to offer. If you have any questions about the tours we operate across Asia, please get in touch. In the meantime, let’s look at just some of the reasons why the rest of Cambodia deserves as much time and attention as Siem Reap and Angkor Wat.

Kayak with the Mekong’s Freshwater Dolphins

As the twelfth-longest river in the world, and Asia’s third longest, the Mekong teems with wildlife. One of the most distinctive species in Cambodia’s stretch of the river is the Irrawaddy dolphin. These animals inhabit a 118-mile-long area in both Cambodia and Laos. Due primarily to a bulging forehead and short beak, Irrawaddy dolphins have distinctive rounded heads. This friendly appearance, complete with what amounts to a broad smile, makes them a hit to spot in the wild.

Our Cambodia Bike, Hike, and Kayak Tour visits the Kampi river pools north of Kratie. Led by an expert local guide, our tour groups view these playful, endangered animals by kayak, a non-invasive approach that avoids stressing them.

Explore Silk Island by Bike

Also known as Koh Dach, Cambodia’s Silk Island may only be a short distance from Phnom Penh, but it feels like another world. Like many capital cities, Phnom Penh has a certain hustle and bustle; but Koh Dach moves at a different pace. It’s cooler and calmer than the nearby city and makes a great introduction to the beauty and warmth of rural Cambodia.However, the biggest attraction of Silk Island is in its name. This location is famous for being a hub for silk weaving. Local women carry out this traditional practice on looms beneath raised houses.

Koh Dach is another popular stop on our Cambodia bike tours, including the Mekong Bike and Boat Tour. Pedaling around this area is a great way to, escape the city and learn about the silk manufacturing and weaving process. After visiting Silk Island, you can move on to explore some of the top things to do in Phnom Penh.

Trek to Preah Vihear, an Ancient Clifftop Temple

Sitting atop a 525-meter cliff in the Dângrêk mountains, around a 4-hour drive from Siem Reap and Angkor Wat, Preah Vihear is an ancient temple built during the Khmer Empire. The clifftop location requires a hike to reach, but the views, which extend for miles, are spectacular. The mountain and Preah Vihear province also borders Thailand, so you can admire two countries at the same time!

At the time of writing, the wooden staircase leading to Preah Vihear is closed and awaiting repair. For the time being, we use pick-up trucks driven by local guides to get up the mountain. The drivers know the route incredibly well! Once dropped off, we trek the remaining 700m or so uphill through the temple ruins. This leads us to the pinnacle and the jaw-dropping views that await.

Marvel at Kulen National Park’s Trails and Waterfalls

Situated northeast of Siem Reap and Angkor Wat, Kulen National Park is another Cambodian gem that is well worth a visit. A natural playground for locals, this lush nature reserve has many incredible sights. The impressive waterfall is one of the most popular attractions. Local people flock here largely on weekends to have picnics and swim in the rock pools.

The park is also home to the Langur trail, a walking path that winds through the semi-evergreen and dry deciduous forests. The trail itself is named after the dusky langur monkeys that live here. And we haven’t even touched on the fact that there’s a “secret” tiled swimming pool fed by a cold mountain spring and maintained by monks! These monks also perform water blessings to protect people from misfortune and evil spirits.

Kayak Through the Mekong Flooded Forest

The Mekong Flooded Forest (MFF) is a breathtaking landscape 27,000km² in size. This natural phenomenon spans northern-central Cambodia and the southern border with Laos. A 180km stretch of the Mekong passes through the country’s Kratie and Stung Treng provinces. Within this incredible landscape, the deep pools of the Mekong Flooded Forest are one of the world’s most prolific and diverse freshwater ecosystems.

An estimated 37 mammal species, 411 species of inland fish, 281 bird species, 52 species of amphibians and reptiles, and 674 vascular plant species all have unique habitats here. Trees with gnarled roots hold together hundreds of small silt islands. These dot the floodscape, creating the forest element. When kayaking through Mekong Flooded Forest on our Cambodia Hike, Bike, and Kayak Tour these trees provide welcome shade, while the islands give a boost of acceleration to the current.

Relax on Tropical Beaches and Islands

Did you know that Cambodia’s south coast is home to tropical beaches and islands? With the Gulf of Thailand’s crystal clear waters washing over white sand beaches, you can find the perfect place to relax and unwind. The tropical islands in Cambodia’s south include:

• Koh Rong Sanloem – Home to idyllic Saracen Bay
• Koh Rong – A popular party destination
• Koh Ta Kiev – A chance to experience rustic island life
• Koh Totang – A tiny island with an eco-tourism resort
• Koh Thmei – A nature lover’s paradise off Ream National Park

With beaches tucked away here and there on every island, you can find the perfect fit for your holiday.

Explore the Warmth and Hospitality of Rural Cambodia

One of the best reasons to explore this country’s lesser visited areas is the opportunity to experience the warmth and hospitality of rural Cambodia firsthand. Over the years, our team has crafted tours in many Asian counties. We believe that Cambodian people are among the friendliest and most welcoming on the continent. They always offer a smile and wave to our cycling groups, sometimes even a bite to eat!

On a guided cycling tour you can maximise this experience. Our local guides break down language barriers and social obstacles, creating room for genuine connection. They also know the best spots for local handicrafts, off-the-beaten-path highlights, and local customs. There’s no better way to see and feel the real Cambodia.

Discover Cambodia on Bike Tours Led by Experts!

We hope this blog has shown you just how much Cambodia has to offer outside of Siem Reap and Angkor Wat. And as this magical country continues to grow in popularity, there’s never been a better time to visit! Joining one of our upcoming Cambodia bike tours gives you an authentic slice of life here while it’s still off the beaten track.

For more information about our tours in Cambodia or any other location in Asia, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

We’re celebrating a life behind bars (handlebars that is) with the newest member of the Grasshopper family! Say hello to Charlotte, Grasshopper’s new Chief Tour Designer, with the coveted role of crafting unique and immersive experiences into the Grasshopper tours you know and love. 

There’s no “School of Travel”, so what does it take to be a world-class trip designer? To help answer that question we had a quick Q&A with Charlotte to explore some of her interesting travel experiences, and hear what she brings to the role.

Hi Charlotte, just as a quick intro, when you’re not designing exciting new adventures, what keeps you inspired and energetic, and gets those creative juices flowing?

Even though I’m based in Thailand currently, I have been able to find and join a women’s rugby team, which is great fun. Off the field I’m also a certified yoga instructor, and it’s safe to say that I really just love activity and sports in general! My partner Thomas, and young daughter Olive, are also an endless source of joy and inspiration in my life. 

It’s no secret we love to talk travel! What are the top 3 destinations you’ve visited and what did you love about them?

Number #1, by far, Pakistan. The famous Karakorum Highway (KKH), one of the highest paved roads in the world, is also one of the most breathtaking routes I’ve had the chance to travel in my life. On top of that, the Pakistanis are generous, fun, respectful, and very very welcoming. They are so happy to see tourists visiting their country that you are often invited to come to their home or sit with them at a restaurant everywhere you go!

Not too far behind would be my number #2, the Pamir Highway in Tajikistan is the second highest route in the world and, again, one of the most spectacular rides I have done. Cruising those harsh and challenging paths that used to be part of the ancient Silk Road, with the help of a modern-day motorbike, makes you feel very privileged, yet you are also extremely isolated at the same time.

My number #3 favorite destination would be Nepal. I lived there for 2 years, that’s where I started my career in tourism, developing hiking tours in the breathtaking Himalayas. That name used to resonate inside me in geography classes, dreaming of one day hiking those giant peaks! Nepalis are also one-of-a-kind, extremely sweet and curious people, always wearing their heart on their sleeve. Here’s a fun fact, the country is only 200 km from North to South, yet the altitude ranges from 60m to the highest peak in the world, Mt Everest at 8848m!

Part of your role at Grasshopper will be working with our local teams in-country to develop new tours. What is the most memorable adventure you have ever planned and taken?

One day, when we were living in Nepal my partner told me “I have this idea in the back of my head that has been tickling me for some time” before suggesting, “why don’t we travel back to Europe by land?”. I was so super enthusiastic about this crazy idea that I think it took me 30 seconds to just form a coherent reply –  “I’m IN!” I said, and so it began…

We were preparing and planning for 10 months. Our trip was going to take us from Nepal back to France and Belgium on the back of two vintage Royal Enfield motorbikes. We took mechanic classes in a tiny garage in Kathmandu with our teacher/mechanic Ramesh who didn’t speak a word of English, and arranged all the visas and documentation to be able to cross 16 countries by land and bike, along with all the needed materials like spare parts & camping equipment.

Someone once told me “the most difficult part is the takeoff, the moment where you have to actually leave”, and that was true for me. But, once we were on the road the adventure really began, traveling overland from one place to another with no turning back was the most amazing feeling ever.

Like to see more of this epic trip? Charlotte has shared a video she made of the experience – see below.

That certainly sounds like an incredible and unique adventure! What is one moment or story from that trip which will stay with you forever?

When we were crossing the northern desert in Uzbekistan, my dear motorcycle decided to take a little break. Luckily, on this endless and empty road, we were able to stop a truck relatively quickly, and they towed our bikes (and us) to the nearest mechanic, a whole 3 hours from there!

We then spent a further three nights in the middle of nowhere with wild camels as neighbors. We were so isolated that we had to rely completely on the local mechanic and his family, who invited us to stay at their home and sleep in their guest bedroom (see open-air guest bedroom below). Although we couldn’t communicate in the same language, we still had one of the best moments sharing a tiny piece of our lives with those welcoming people. 

I have such beautiful memories of that part of the world which is, in my opinion, underappreciated. Those ancient routes and the people who call them home have so many beautiful stories to tell, we just need to venture out and find them. 

You have been busy reviewing the Grasshopper tour lineup. Which one are you most likely to join first?

The Stunning Shikoku Bike tour of Japan! 

Japan has always intrigued me in a lot of ways: its uniquely modern and futurist culture intertwined with ancient traditions, like their bathing rituals and passion for karaoke. Also, food is always a very important part of my travels and Japan has a lot to offer for the inquisitive stomach! Cycling the Shimanami Kaido and immersing myself in the local culture are definitely both a must on my to-do list, so this tour ticks all the right boxes.

Grasshopper Adventures’ tours have their classic signature touches, but what personal touch would you like to bring to your tour design?

I will be doing my best to express my passion for authentic encounters with the country and communities when designing tours, as well as making each a distinctive adventure, a unique story that our guests can experience firsthand.  

I believe those are elements that create the best memories!

Thanks for your time Charlotte, we know you are busy with the current tour lineup as countries and regions re-open, but we also can’t wait to see what new adventures are in store! 

Stay tuned!…

Welcome to another installment of the “Life Behind Bars” series – handlebars of course! A chance for you to meet the team behind the magic.

Our Tour Leaders are a big part of the Grasshopper experience. Knowledgeable about their country, passionate and experienced, they are often time a highlight of tours themselves. Sampath is one of our star Sri Lanka guides. With tourism starting to pick up in 2022, he’s been one of the first on our team to be back on the road, doing what he loves and sharing the best of his country.

We had a quick Q&A, so you can discover a little more about him and the place he calls home.

Where are you from in Sri Lanka?

I’m from a city named Horana in Kalutara province in the west of the country. It’s located halfway between Colombo, the country’s largest city, and Ratnapura, a city known as a center of the gem trade. Horana is situated in the most urbanized part of the country, an area that’s undergoing rapid development with some of the largest infrastructure projects in Sri Lanka. Growing up there, I had access to everything I needed, I was very lucky and thankful.

Sampath, on the left, working with colleague Nishan to prepare his next tour

How did you end up working for Grasshopper?

I became a cycling guide for Grasshopper Adventures about 4 years ago. Before that, I started in the travel industry as a hotel receptionist in 2016 and then as a tour coordinator in 2018. Thanks to this experience in the industry, a number of training courses I did and with my interest in cycling, I got the opportunity to work with Grasshopper Adventures.

Connecting with people on tour, trying to understand guests, what they need and want and finding a way to make it happen, these are the things that really make me enjoy being a guide. I love being able to go above clients’ expectations.

How has guiding tours influenced your life?

Tour guiding has become more than a job for me because it has changed my life in so many ways. It’s made me more knowledgeable and taught me some important life lessons to help me have a successful life. Working with different people from around the world, trying to understand them and help them make the most of foreign situations. These have taught me a lot and have been very helpful in my personal life.

Sam showing guests a good time while on tour

What’s one thing tourists enjoy about Sri Lanka that surprises you?

I think that it is simply riding through the countryside. Actually, it is something I enjoy very much too! Riding through the tea plantations, paddy fields, rural villages, lakes, canals, vegetable plantations, it is all really amazing. I think customers often enjoy this the most and seeing it all on a bicycle makes it an even more special experience, because they wouldn’t see a lot of these places otherwise.

What are some of the highlights of the Sri Lanka tours?

That’s a tough one to answer because our tours stop by so many amazing places. The Temple of The Tooth in Kandy and the scenery around Horton Plains in Nuwaraeliya are always favorites with guests. Animal lovers enjoy Yala national park and the Jeep safari where they can see a variety of birds and some rare animals like leopards and sloth bears. There is so much more I could list here, and customers always leave wanting to see more and visit Sri Lanka again.

Sampath and guests taking a break from riding to rehydrate

What do you do outside of work, when you’re not guiding tours?

When I’m not working I usually stay home, cycle around and explore my home area or watch movies and read. I’m always trying to learn something new about my country, things that I can share on tour. So when I get a chance I read about Sri Lanka and often other countries too. My favorite thing is talking with the elders, there is so much to learn and so many untold stories.

Like to join Sampath on tour or one of our other amazing Sri Lanka guides? Explore the country by bike, safari, and two feet, on our Sri Lanka by Bike tour and enjoy the convenience of a fully supported tour, with local insight from our expert guides. This 8-day adventure takes you beyond the highlights to showcase the communities and hidden gems that make this country truly amazing.

Get a first-hand account of an adventure through Alaska. Tour guest Grant Adams has kindly shared his experience cruising, cycling, and sipping his way through Alaska’s Inside Passage. From bonding with fellow adventurers to soaking up breathtaking views, Alaska clearly left its mark, as it does to all who venture through America’s last frontier.

I had never been to Alaska before this trip, but I have heard a lot about it. My first impression was that it’s so much bigger than anything I have ever experienced. The vast open views and lush greenness was amazing. Coming from Colorado where the mountains are mighty and the plains are… well just plain, the Alaskan vistas are breathtaking. The sea and lakes nestle up to towering white-capped mountains and glaciers, and it all makes Colorado seem very small in comparison.

The best part about cycling Alaska

Cycling in Alaska was surprisingly comfortable because of the lack of major road traffic. I don’t know why, but I was expecting a lot more vehicles on the roads and that really wasn’t the case. There is so much to see, so I cannot imagine being confined to a car. Additionally, riding gave me the chance to connect with the group. Some days I was super energetic and felt like going fast, and other days I preferred to cruise with those further back and make sure no one fell behind.

Our group had such a wonderful time cycling together and I feel like I had the chance to ride with each person and get to know them better than if we had only chatted over meals. Our conversations ranged from the number of eagles we had seen that day to the destinations we had cycled, and most importantly, where we wanted to travel next.

Breathtaking views and wildlife around every corner

Other than the generous servings of scenic views and great camaraderie, there is a tremendous abundance of wildlife you can experience close up. Each day I enjoyed counting eagles and saw anywhere from 10-25 a day. Other than bald eagles, we saw bears with their cubs fishing for a meal, fish (avoiding being a meal), otters, and even a river dolphin. At first, most wildlife was pointed out by our amazing guides who went out of their way to showcase the nature Alaska has to offer, but after a while we were enthusiastically pointing it out to them!

The surprisingly diverse Alaskan food scene

It was early in the salmon spawning season and we saw first-hand the beginning, and end, of the salmon’s life cycle. We could have eaten salmon every day! I even tried a sockeye salmon burger, which I highly recommend. Rest assured the seafood in Alaska is plentiful and tastes amazing.

If seafood is not your thing or you want to branch out, there is quite a bit of local dining to try. Keep in mind you should be a little flexible, because sometimes items may not be arriving on the ferry until later in the week. But honestly, that was never really an issue, because all of the food was delicious! You had choices from seafood, pizza, pasta, all the way to Thai food. I was never left hungry at the end of the day.

Get your drink on in Alaska: discovering Alaskan distillers and breweries

If you like to partake in an adult beverage, there are also plenty of options. One highlight was visiting a small local distillery in Haines and talking to the owner-distiller about his craft, which he was very passionate about. I recommend you try a “Svenson”, which is named after a local artist/adventurer who is larger than life; the drink is too!

The towns we visited had local breweries, so if you are more of a beer than a cocktail person there is always something new to try, and we made sure to visit some local bars to get a sense of each town’s personality. All were within easy walking distance of our lodging, so there’s no need to worry about getting around after hours.

Boats, ferries & rafts: admiring Alaska from the water

During the day, when not riding, we were often traveling by boat. Again, coming from Colorado I don’t get a chance to ride around on many boats. The ferry from Juneau to Haines was outstanding and we saw humpback whales, glacier water mixing with ocean water, local birds (including more eagles), and dolphins. It was nice being able to get out on the deck in the fresh crisp air.

We took a second ferry from Haines to Skagway, which was a much shorter ride, but the ferry was reserved exclusively for our group. The captain made time to point out local landmarks, along with a great description of what we were looking at. I personally enjoyed all the waterfalls along the way.

Sea ferries were not the only boats we traveled on. Twice, we took a float downriver on a raft to enjoy the sights off-the-road. This was a surprisingly comfortable and extremely pleasant way to travel. The raft guides were informative and easy to talk to, in addition to being skilled with navigating along the river.

To close out the week we experienced one last waterborne adventure, kayaking to the Mendenhall Glacier. It’s impossible to fathom just how gigantic these glaciers are until you get close to them, and being on a small kayak makes the experience that much more humbling and intimate.

A few tips to keep in mind when cycling Alaska

A few tips for traveling to Alaska. I learned that flexibility is important. Things we take for granted are another order of difficulty there. Commerce has to travel by boat, plane, or truck and all of those are much smaller than in the lower 48.

Also, the weather can shift, so come prepared. We had rain on our trip, but it didn’t come down in abundance until the last day. I was glad I packed a lightweight raincoat and pants, these came out regularly. Between the slight chill in the mornings and the occasional shower, those kept me nice and comfortable.

The other thing I was glad to have was my phone. Not because of the “awesome 5G signal” everywhere, which was mainly a lack thereof, but because I was constantly taking pictures of all of the beauty. I strongly recommend keeping your phone on you constantly so you are always ready to capture ‘that shot’, but (top tip) keep it in a plastic bag to prevent it from getting wet.

The Alaska Inside Passage cycle tour took in the highlights of the southeast and has certainly left me wanting to come back and experience more of this giant state. By the end of the trip, all of us had become friends and vowed to keep in touch. I had a wonderful time and hope that everyone has the chance to experience some of Alaska’s beauty. I highly recommend cycling Alaska, which is truly an epic way to immerse yourself in its awesomeness!