HOI AN Biking River Islands, Villages, Local Crafts PRIVATE TOUR
Active
4h - 5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Embark on a delightful journey through Hoi An’s countryside on a 16-km (10-mile) bike tour, where you’ll experience the warmth of local families and gain unique insights into traditional crafts and the local way of life. Our carefully chosen route winds through peaceful landscapes, far from the hustle and bustle of town.
+ Cross the river to the Cam Kim island, cycling through rice paddies, and rural villages.
+ Step into a local home to make rice paper using traditional stone mills, then enjoy your creations.
+ Visit a family of incense makers to learn about this longstanding cultural tradition in Vietnam.
+ Try weaving colorful straw mats at Tra Nhieu fishing village.
+ Enjoy a refreshing stop for Vietnamese coffee and a restroom break.
+ Discover the artistry of wood carving and seashell products at Kim Bong Carpentry Village.
+ End with a scenic ferry ride across the Hoai River back to Hoi An.
Optional: Savor a Vietnamese meal (5 dishes) to complete the experience.
Available options
Private tour - No meal
PRIVATE TOUR: Only your group participates - Travel at flexible pace.<br/>Duration: 4 hours: From start to finish.<br/>Quiet countryside paths: Small pave roads, relatively flat, easy for riders at all ages.<br/>Good bikes and helmets: One-gear bicycles, no need to change gears, easy to ride on flat terrain. Children bikes and baby-seats availabe.<br/>Bottled water during the tour: Plus coffee stop to freshen up & Use washroom.<br/>Pickup included
Private tour + With meal
PRIVATE TOUR: Only your group participates - Travel at flexible pace.<br/>Duration: 5 hours: From start to finish.<br/>Vietnamese lunch or dinner: Five tasty dishes in a nice restaurant before tour ends.<br/>Quiet countryside paths: Small pave roads, relatively flat, easy for riders at all ages.<br/>Good bikes and helmets: One-gear bicycles, no need to change gears, easy to ride on flat terrain. Children bikes and baby-seats avaialbe.<br/>Bottled water during the tour: Plus coffee stop to freshen up & Use washroom.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Local tour guide speaks English, knowledgeble & licensed
Bottled water during the tour. Most stops have clean washrooms
Pickup and drop off hotel in Hoi An, 8 km or 5 miles from Hoi An old town
Donations at local homes, coffee stop, local ferry ride
INCLUDED or EXCLUDED Vietnamese meal at different PRICES and DURATIONS, please check when booking
All taxes, tickets, entrance fees, donations at local homes
Good bikes, helmets, light raincoats in case of rain
Detailed itinerary
1
STARTING POINT:
This private biking tour begins at your hotel in Hoi An, or at the Local Buddy Tours office if your hotel is farther from the Old Town. We offer free pick-up and drop-off from any hotel in the Hoi An area. Safety comes first— we'll spend a few minutes reviewing Vietnam's traffic rules, trying on helmets, and getting comfortable with the bikes. Then, we’ll cycle across the Thu Bon River to explore the countryside villages of Cam Kim Island.
2
CAM KIM ISLAND:
Bike across a scenic bridge over Thu Bon river, we'll visit Cam Kim island to see fishing and farming villages. You'll soon meet a 65-year-old couple, the husband will show you how to grind rice using traditional stone mill. His wife will teach you how to make rice papers and snacks. Then we'll sit down to enjoy these delicious local dishes. You also get to see their traditional house and their daily life...
3
Incense-Making Family Visit: Meet a local craftsman and join in the hands-on process of crafting incense sticks, a treasured tradition in Vietnam used for worship and celebration. Experience the art firsthand as you create your own fragrant incense alongside the artisan.
4
TRADITIONAL BED MATS:
Meet a 70-year-old couple, learn how they grow, harvest, dye the reeds. You'll sit down with this lovely coupe and help them weave the colorful bed mats. Your visit also allows us to give them a small donation, it helps them keep this traditional craft that has run in their family for many generations.
5
COFFEE STOP:
Sip a cup of Vietnamese coffee, or a refreshing juice at a nice local coffee shop. Here you can let your legs rest, learn about Vietnamese coffee culture, and talk about interesting things you see along the way. Use the washroom before continue cycling.
6
Stop 6
CARPENTRY VILLAGE:
Visit the 400-year-old Kim Bong carpentry village, meet a 60-year-old couple to see how they make traditional furniture from hardwood, and then beautifully decorated with seashell / mother-of-pearl. Then we'll hop on a local ferry to cross Hoai river, enjoy the river views and nice breeze before hopping on the mainland Hoi An.
7
FINISHING POINT:
1/ If you book tour without meal: After the ferry ride, we'll have a short bike ride or car transfer to your hotel in Hoi An.
2/ If you book tour with meal: After the ferry ride, we'll enjoy a Vietnamese meal at the riverside restaurant. Then we'll we'll have a bike ride (shorter distance) or car transfer (longer distance) back to your hotel in Hoi An.
What's not included
Other drinks & Personal expenses. Tip is optional but appreciated
Private car transfer from South Hoi An or Da Nang to HOI AN: 15-20-30 USD/ 4-7-16 seater/ one-way
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Tripadvisor
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
This is a private tour, so you can pick your preferred starting time when booking. If you have any special requests of bike heights, don't hesitate to contact us.
If you choose tour option that includes meal, we can cater normal/ vegan/ vegetarian diets (Set menu with 5 Vietnamese dishes)
Meeting point
If you're from South Hoi An or Da Nang, please come to Local Buddy Tours booking office in Hoi An (inside Song Thanh restautant). Or we can help you find private car transfer from South Hoi An or Da Nang to Hoi An town with extra charge: 15/20/30 USD for 4/7/16 seater vehicle (ONE-WAY transfer).
About Hoi An
Hoi An is a charming ancient town and UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved architecture, lantern-lit streets, and rich cultural heritage. This former trading port blends Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and European influences, offering a unique glimpse into Southeast Asia's history.
Top Attractions
Hoi An Ancient Town
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Ancient Town is famous for its well-preserved architecture, lantern-lit streets, and historic buildings. It offers a glimpse into the town's rich history as a trading port.
Historical
Half day to full day
120,000 VND (Ancient Town Entry Ticket)
An Bang Beach
A beautiful beach located about 4 km from Hoi An, known for its white sand and clear waters. It's a great spot for relaxation and water activities.
Beach
Half day
Free
My Son Sanctuary
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, My Son is an ancient Hindu temple complex built by the Cham civilization. It's a significant archaeological site with intricate carvings and ruins.
Historical
Full day
150,000 VND
Hoi An Night Market
A bustling night market offering a variety of local food, souvenirs, and handicrafts. It's a great place to experience the local culture and try street food.
Market
1-2 hours
Varies
Tra Que Vegetable Village
A peaceful village known for its organic vegetable farming. Visitors can participate in farming activities, learn about traditional farming techniques, and enjoy a farm-to-table meal.
Cultural
Half day
Varies
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cao Lau
A noodle dish with pork, herbs, and a unique broth made from pork bones and ash of burnt rice. It's a local specialty and a must-try.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains pork and gluten
Banh Mi
A Vietnamese baguette sandwich filled with various ingredients like pâté, cold cuts, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs. Hoi An's version is particularly delicious.
Breakfast/Lunch
Can be made vegetarian or with various fillings
White Rose Dumplings
Small, delicate shrimp dumplings that resemble white roses. They are a local specialty and a popular street food item.
Snack
Contains shrimp and gluten
Quang Noodles
A noodle dish with turmeric-infused rice noodles, pork, shrimp, and a flavorful broth. It's a popular dish from the nearby town of Quang and also loved in Hoi An.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains pork and shrimp
Popular Activities
Snorkeling
Diving
Hiking
Motorbike tours
Beach activities
Spa treatments
Cooking classes
Yoga
Best Time to Visit
February to April
This period offers the best weather with warm temperatures, low humidity, and minimal rain. It's ideal for exploring the town and enjoying outdoor activities.
25-30°C
77-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Vietnamese
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Vietnamese Dong (VND)
Time Zone
GMT+7
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Hoi An is generally a safe destination for travelers. Petty crime can occur, so take precautions to protect your belongings. Be cautious of motorbikes when walking, as they can be numerous and fast.
Important Precautions:
- • Use reputable taxi services or ride-hailing apps like Grab.
- • Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.
- • Bargain for souvenirs and services to avoid overpaying.
Getting there
By air
- Da Nang International Airport • 30 km
By train
Hoi An Station
By bus
Hoi An Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses connect Hoi An to nearby towns and cities but are not extensively used within the town itself.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Grab
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Ancient Town
Cam Chau
An Bang
Day trips
Da Nang
30 km • Half day to full day
Da Nang is a vibrant coastal city known for its beaches, modern architecture, and cultural sites. It offers a mix of urban attractions and natural beauty.
My Son Sanctuary
50 km • Full day
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, My Son is an ancient Hindu temple complex built by the Cham civilization. It's a significant archaeological site with intricate carvings and ruins.
Cham Islands
20 km • Full day
A group of eight islands known for their beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and biodiversity. The islands are a great spot for snorkeling, diving, and relaxing.
Festivals
Hoi An Lantern Festival • 14th of each lunar month
Hoi An International Food Festival • Annual, usually in June
Mid-Autumn Festival • Annual, usually in September or October
Pro tips
- Visit the Ancient Town in the evening when the lanterns are lit for a magical experience.
- Try local specialties like Cao Lau, Banh Mi, and White Rose Dumplings at local eateries and markets.
- Explore the town on foot or by bicycle to discover hidden gems and enjoy the pedestrian-friendly streets.
- Book a cooking class to learn about local ingredients and techniques, and enjoy a farm-to-table meal.
- Visit the Hoi An Lantern Festival on the 14th of each lunar month for a unique and cultural experience.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
