Quang Binh
1 day
AH-QB03
6/10
WHY THIS TOUR?

Discover the peaceful beauty of Phong Nha at a slower pace on this full-day cycling and paddleboarding adventure. Ride through quiet countryside roads, passing traditional villages, lush rice paddies, and friendly local communities before reaching the stunning emerald waters of the Chay River. From there, swap your bike for a stand-up paddleboard and enjoy a relaxing journey downstream along the Son River, surrounded by dramatic limestone mountains and the timeless landscapes of Phong Nha. Combining active exploration with tranquil moments on the water, this experience offers a unique way to connect with the region’s natural beauty and rural charm.

Highlights:

  • Cycle through peaceful villages and scenic rice paddies on quiet countryside roads.
  • Discover the stunning emerald waters of the Chay River, one of Phong Nha’s hidden natural gems.
  • Experience an authentic side of Phong Nha away from the crowds, connecting with local life and nature.
  • Enjoy spectacular photo opportunities featuring rivers, karst landscapes, traditional villages, and vibrant green fields.
SUMMARY
  • Start / Finish Point: Phong Nha

  • Duration: 1 day

  • Destination: Quang Binh

  • Group Size : 2 - 15 pax

  • Best Season: Feb - Aug

  • Difficulty level: 6/10

  • Activities: Cycling, Paddle Boarding (SUP)

ITINERARY
Phong Nha – Hava Valley – Chay River – Phong Nha

08:00 Your guide will meet you at your hotel for a tour briefing and bicycle fitting before setting off toward Hava Valley, a riverside adventure park on the Son River. The 15 km ride follows quiet backroads through peaceful villages, lush rice paddies, and the scenic landscapes of the Son and Chay Rivers. Along the way, you'll cross the river by local ferry and suspension bridge, stopping at a family home to enjoy a cup of tea and learn about everyday life in rural Phong Nha. After approximately three hours of relaxed cycling, continue to Hava Valley.

11:30 Arrive at Hava Valley for lunch and some time to relax before preparing for the afternoon paddleboarding adventure.

13:30 Begin your SUP journey back toward Phong Nha. Glide along the calm waters of the Son River, surrounded by towering limestone mountains, emerald landscapes, and the tranquil beauty of the countryside.

16:00 Arrive in Phong Nha Town and transfer back to your hotel by vehicle. Your tour concludes.

* Approx. Duration: Cycling 2-3hrs / Paddling 2,5hrs / Lunch break 1hr

* Meal included: Lunch

INCLUSION/EXCLUSION

Inclusion:

  • Support truck
  • Vehicle to transfer after padling 
  • Inflatble SUP and equipment
  • English speaking tourguide
  • Bicycle & helmet
  • Lunch
  • Drinking water during the tour
  • Entrance fees & tickets
  • Domestic travel insurance 

Exclusion:

  • Additional food and beverages not stated in the itinerary
  • Personal expenses
  • Transportation fee before and after the trip
  • Tips
THE EQUIPMENT NECESSARY

Equipment provided by VAH:

  • Inflatble SUP
  • Life jacket
  • Bicycle
  • Helmet
  • Dry bag
  • First-aid kit. 

What to bring: 

  • Walking shoes or sandals
  • Lightweight, quick-dry clothing
  • Lightweight rain jacket.
  • Electronics: Mobile phone, camera, power bank, ...
  • Personal medications
  • Reusable water bottle
  • ID or Passport

Also recommended:

  • Toiletries
  • Sunscreen
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Pocket knife or multi-tool
IMPORTANT NOTES

1. SUP Notes

  • Distance: Approximately 3 km
  • Route: Paddle along the crystal-clear Chay River, famous for its striking jade-green waters and spectacular limestone scenery. As you glide across the calm surface, you'll be surrounded by towering karst mountains, lush tropical forest, and tranquil riverside landscapes. The combination of pristine nature, refreshing water, and peaceful surroundings creates a relaxing yet adventurous experience, offering a unique perspective of Phong Nha's extraordinary beauty.
  • Suitability: This route is suitable for most fitness levels, including first-time paddlers. Families are welcome, and children aged 6–10 can comfortably participate when accompanied by an adult.
  • Safety Notes: While paddling, remain aware of natural obstacles such as submerged rocks and overhanging tree branches, as well as other watercraft sharing the river. Confident swimmers with previous SUP experience may choose to remove their life jacket and secure it to the board; however, wearing a SUP safety leash is mandatory for all participants at all times.

2. Cycling Notes

  • Distance: Approximately 15 km
  • Terrain: The route follows quiet backroads, village lanes, and flat concrete paths through the peaceful countryside of Phong Nha. Cyclists will ride alongside the Son and Chay Rivers, passing lush rice paddies, local farms, and traditional villages while crossing the waterways by local ferry and suspension bridge. The terrain is mostly flat with no significant climbs, making for a relaxed and enjoyable ride.
  • Suitability: Suitable for anyone with basic cycling skills, including beginners, families, and recreational riders. Children who are comfortable riding a bicycle can also join the tour.
  • Safety Notes: Participants should always ride on the right-hand side of the road, follow the guide's instructions, and maintain a safe distance from other cyclists. Helmets are mandatory throughout the ride. Please be mindful of local traffic, pedestrians, livestock, and uneven road surfaces, especially when crossing the ferry and suspension bridge.

3. Food & Water

  • Meal: The lunch showcase authentic, hearty local cuisine designed to replenish your energy after active outdoor sessions. 
  • Water & Energy: Clean, safe drinking water and energy-boosting snacks (such as fresh fruits or local treats) are supplied daily during the tour. 

4. Responsible Travel & Environmental Protection

  • Leave No Trace: We strictly follow and promote the Leave No Trace principles in all our outdoor programs. We encourage our guests and partners to apply these ethics to minimize our impact on the natural environment. [See details about Leave No Trace here]
  • Reduce Plastic Waste: To limit single-use plastics, we encourage everyone to bring a reusable bottle (minimum 1L capacity). You can refill it throughout the day from our large water jugs.
  • Local Regulations: We kindly ask all guests to comply with the specific environmental regulations and instructions provided by our guides at the destination.

5. Health & Safety

  • Medical Considerations: Your safety is our priority. If you have a history of cardiovascular conditions or chronic joint issues (knees, ankles, shoulders, etc.), please consult with your doctor before booking this trip.
  • Physical Fitness: Please maintain a regular walking routine of approximately 5–7 km per day in the weeks leading up to the tour to ensure you are adequately prepared for the trek.
  • Transparency: Please inform our tour guide of any existing health conditions or allergies at the start of the journey so we can support you best.

3. Responsible Travel & Environmental Protection

  • Leave No Trace: We strictly follow and promote the Leave No Trace principles in all our outdoor programs. We encourage our guests and partners to apply these ethics to minimize our impact on the natural environment. [See details about Leave No Trace here]
  • Reduce Plastic Waste: To limit single-use plastics, we encourage everyone to bring a reusable water bottle (minimum 1L capacity). Refill stations will be provided throughout the trip.
  • Local Regulations: We kindly ask all guests to comply with the specific environmental regulations and instructions provided by our guides at the destination.

4. Health & Safety

  • Medical Considerations: Your safety is our priority. If you have a history of cardiovascular conditions or chronic joint issues (knees, ankles, shoulders, etc.), please consult with your doctor before booking this trip.
  • Transparency: Please inform our tour guide of any existing health conditions or allergies at the start of the journey so we can support you best