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One-Stop Resource for Bike Tours Worldwide
Representing Local Bike Tour Companies
More than 400 Tours in 70 Countries
Get our newsletter | Contact Us
Call (877) 462-2423 or (423) 756-8907
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| Type of tour: | Guided |
| Level: | Challenging |
| Duration: | 13 Nights |
| Distance: | 33 Miles/day average |
| Dates: | Jun 1; Jul 6; Aug 3, 2013. Other dates available upon request for parties of 2 or more. |
| Tour price: | $2995 |
| Start city: | Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia |
| End city: | Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia |
Historically, Mongolia has always been a destination, as various nomads have visited and inhabited the country since prehistoric times.
Groups like the Xiongnu rose to prominence around 209 BC and eventually emerged as a serious threat to the Qin Dynasty, prompting the construction of the Great Wall of China. By the late 12th century, the country was embroiled in chaos.
Finally, Mongol tribes between Manchuria and the Altai Mountains were united by a chieftain named Temüjin, who eventually took the title Genghis Khan. He carried out a series of brutal military campaigns that swept through most of Asia and led to the formation of the Mongol Empire, the largest contiguous land empire in world history.
At its peak, the Mongol Empire covered 22% of Earth's total land and had a population of over 100 million people. Following Genghis Khan's death, the empire was subdivided into four kingdoms and was eventually overtaken by China’s Ming Dynasty. This turn of events wiped out the cultural progress that was achieved during the Imperial period and threw Mongolia back into a state of anarchy, marked by many power struggles and wars. Eventually, the country formed an alliance with the Soviet Union and despite several more periods of turmoil throughout the 20th Century, Mongolia finally achieved independence.
Today, it is the 19th largest but most sparsely populated independent country in the world with a population of just under 3 million people. Mongolia is a unique tourist destination and those adventurous enough to choose to go there are met by friendly nomads and a rich culture filled with history that extends far beyond Genghis Khan.
Home to beautiful natural surroundings filled with diverse and distinctive plant life, you’ll experience landscapes and habitats that are diverse and unspoiled. For mountain biking enthusiasts, Mongolia offers an experience unlike any other. The views of its beautiful valleys from 2,100 meters above sea level will take your breath away.
As you pedal through the Khangai Mountain range, you’ll encounter wild yaks, sheep, horses and goats as well as the friendly nomads that gather them into herds. Later, you’ll ride your bike through ruins from the ancient Mongolian Empire and other points steeped in history.
When it’s time to cool off, the beautiful Orkhon river and the famed Ulaan Tsutgalan waterfall are also on the agenda. This trip is challenging, but those who enjoy an off-road adventure will love it - less than 20 of around 372 total kilometers take place on paved roads!
Learn more about guided tours.
Historically, Mongolia has always been a destination, as various nomads have visited and inhabited the country since prehistoric times.
Groups like the Xiongnu rose to prominence around 209 BC and eventually emerged as a serious threat to the Qin Dynasty, prompting the construction of the Great Wall of China. By the late 12th century, the country was embroiled in chaos.
Finally, Mongol tribes between Manchuria and the Altai Mountains were united by a chieftain named Temüjin, who eventually took the title Genghis Khan. He carried out a series of brutal military campaigns that swept through most of Asia and led to the formation of the Mongol Empire, the largest contiguous land empire in world history.
At its peak, the Mongol Empire covered 22% of Earth's total land and had a population of over 100 million people. Following Genghis Khan's death, the empire was subdivided into four kingdoms and was eventually overtaken by China’s Ming Dynasty. This turn of events wiped out the cultural progress that was achieved during the Imperial period and threw Mongolia back into a state of anarchy, marked by many power struggles and wars. Eventually, the country formed an alliance with the Soviet Union and despite several more periods of turmoil throughout the 20th Century, Mongolia finally achieved independence.
Today, it is the 19th largest but most sparsely populated independent country in the world with a population of just under 3 million people. Mongolia is a unique tourist destination and those adventurous enough to choose to go there are met by friendly nomads and a rich culture filled with history that extends far beyond Genghis Khan.
Home to beautiful natural surroundings filled with diverse and distinctive plant life, you’ll experience landscapes and habitats that are diverse and unspoiled. For mountain biking enthusiasts, Mongolia offers an experience unlike any other. The views of its beautiful valleys from 2,100 meters above sea level will take your breath away.
As you pedal through the Khangai Mountain range, you’ll encounter wild yaks, sheep, horses and goats as well as the friendly nomads that gather them into herds. Later, you’ll ride your bike through ruins from the ancient Mongolian Empire and other points steeped in history.
When it’s time to cool off, the beautiful Orkhon river and the famed Ulaan Tsutgalan waterfall are also on the agenda. This trip is challenging, but those who enjoy an off-road adventure will love it - less than 20 of around 372 total kilometers take place on paved roads!
Learn more about guided tours.
Day 1: Arrival
Arrive in Ulaanbaatar Welcome to Mongolia! The day is free until we meet in the early for a trip briefing and then you’ll enjoy a unique show of contortion and throat singing followed by a delicious dinner. Meals: D.
Overnight at Bayangol Hotel in Ulaanbaatar.
Day 2: Ulaanbaatar
After breakfast, it’s time to explore and take a guided tour of Ulaanbaatar. Mongolia’s capital is home to many unique sites, including the Winter Palace of the Bogd Khan, the country’s last king, and the National Museum of Mongolian History. After lunch the rest of the day is free. We will have an early dinner so you can rest as we have to rise before dawn to catch an early morning flight to Bayankhongor. Meals: B, L, D.
Overnight at Bayangol Hotel in Ulaanbaatar.
Day 3: Ulaanbaatar – Bayankhongor (7 miles/12 km)
We leave the hotel at 4 am for a 5:30 am flight to the town of Bayankhongor, where you’ll meet up with your support team which includes a guide, cook and drivers. After breakfast, it’s a two-and-a-half hour drive to the starting point of your bike trip, 2,100 meters above sea level.
As you anticipate your epic adventure, enjoy the views of the southern valleys of the Khangai mountain range, an area with over 300 hot and cold mineral springs. This is a great way to rest and acclimate yourself with your new surroundings, before the main event. After a bike fitting we will take a short ride to the nearby springs to prepare for the great days of cycling ahead. Meals: B, L, D.
Overnight in tent camp.
Day 4: Khebel Pass (24 miles/39 km)
This is the moment you’ve been waiting for - the start of five days of superb cycling across the Khangai Mountain range, covering just over 150 miles/240 kilometers! The day begins with a quick breakfast and a gentle ride past herds of yaks and local nomads. The first pass is not too steep but still offers a bit of a challenge. This is followed by a 200 meter descent and a steep climb to a lunch spot on the top of the Khebel pass. Eventually, you will end up at a beautiful camp site by the river. Meals: B, L, D.
Overnight in tented camp.
Day 5: Oromtiin Davaa (22 miles/36 km)
Same excitement, different day! The first pass is a 2.5 km climb up a grassy track to the top of Morin Davaa, followed by a descent to the valley floor and a gentle climb towards the second pass - Oromtiin Davaa. By the time you get there, you will have to prepare your legs for another long climb, but this one is a bit steeper. A well-deserved lunch will be served by a river. Then it’s only 15 km to our overnight campsite, however, it’ll be slow going as there are some climbs and the track is rough and rocky as we cross the grassy plains. Meals: B, L, D.
Overnight in tented camp.
Day 6: Khukhiin Davaa (19 miles/30 km)
Prepare for the day by cycling along the floor of the valley before starting a very short, vertical climb to the top of the Khukhiin Davaa pass. The descent at first is very challenging and rough but it soon smoothes out. Along the valley floor, the route is a rough jeep track that heads west into a large valley that offers some great photographic moments. Then it’s an exhilarating 14 km downhill to our lunch spot near a small settlement. On the way down we’ll stop at a Ger camp to see true nomadic life. To avoid a rocky and jarring track we’ll transfer 70 km (3 hours) to our overnight campsite. Meals: B, L, D.
Overnight in tented camp.
Day 7: Khol Sayiin Davaa (34 miles/55 km)
Today is the day you’ll experience the main crossing of the Khangai Range. We have three major climbs today, and you’ll find the first pass - Khol Sayiin Davaa - small but steep. The descent that follows is rough but a good blast down to the valley floor where we ride on similar roads to lunch. After lunch, the road improves and the topography around the valley becomes much steeper, covered in patches of larch and pine forest. It’s a downhill descent, no pedaling required, to our camp at an idyllic spot by the river. Meals: B, L. D.
Overnight in tented camp.
Day 8: Tsenkher River (31 miles/50 km)
The first 15 kilometers of this ride will be among the best riding conditions so far - hard-packed and fast with beautiful landscapes passing by. Leaving the valley, you’ll encounter a series of short but steep passes with excellent descents to more smooth ground. Your last descent of the day will take you to the settlement of Bulgan and then to the Tsenkher river, famous for its hot spring baths. We take a break from our tents and overnight in gers, a traditional Mongolian felt tent comprised of a thin wooden structure covered with thick sheets of felt. Meals: B, L, D.
Overnight at Mankhan Ger Camp.
Day 9: Orkhon River (48 miles/78 km)
This isn’t an easy day as there are five passes that vary in length from 2.5 km to 11.5 km and we gain the most elevation of the entire trip, 1250m. Good news is that the track today is a pleasure as we cover 78 kilometers of smooth, hard, and packed surfaces on your way tot he Orkhon river valley, home of the Ulaan Tsutgalan waterfall. This area contains many ancient graves and historical sites and is often referred to as the cradle of Mongolian civilization. We'll set up camp on the bamks of the Orkhon river. Meals: B, L, D.
Overnight in tented camp.
Day 10: Rest Day at Orkhon River
The time has come for a day of well-deserved rest, relaxation and exploration. The river valley area makes for a perfect backdrop to do just that and we drive the 25 km to the waterfall where you can climb down to the pool below and even take a dip if you are brave enough.
As your guide recounts many interesting facts and history about the area, including a visit to deer stones (of which there are 600 in the world and 550 in Mongolia), you may be greeted by nomadic Mongols and their herds of yak and horses. Don’t be shy when they offer you a taste of ‘airag.’ This Mongolian equivalent of beer is made from fermented horse milk. Meals: B, L, D.
Overnight in tented camp.
Day 11: Karakorum (45 miles/72 km)
We saved the best for last! Your final day of cycling promises to be an exciting one with an eastward journey along the Orkhon river to Karakorum - the medieval capital of the Mongolian Empire. There are no major ascents today, just lots of small undulations, and we are losing altitude the entire ride, making it a fast day. Meals: B, L, D.
Overnight in tented Camp.
Day 12: Khustai National Park
Just because your bike has been retired for the duration of this journey doesn’t mean that the adventure (and fun) has to stop. Today will find you visiting two amazing national parks, each steeped in history. Karakorum is the country’s former capital and still lies in ruins after attacks by the Chinese Ming dynasty troops during the 1380s. Today it is surrounded by massive walls though only a dozen of its original temples still remain today. From there, you’ll travel six hours (320 kilometers) to the Khustai National Park, a place where the wild horses of Przewalski were re-introduced after their near extinction in the 1960s. Overnight accommodation will be in the relative luxury of a ger. Meals: B, L, D.
Overnight in ger camp.
Day 13: Ulaanbaatar
It’s time to return to Ulaanbaatar! After a quick breakfast you’ll drive two hours to Mongolia’s capital and take a much deserved rest before gathering for a farewell dinner with your fellow cyclists. Meals: B, D.
Overnight at Bayangol Hotel in Ulaanbaatar.
Day 14: Departure
As you eat your last breakfast in Mongolia and prepare for your return trip home, take the time to reflect on all that you witnessed and experienced in this amazing country. Departure. Meals: B.
Jun 1; Jul 6; Aug 3, 2013. Other dates available upon request for parties of 2 or more.
Minimum age for this tour is 18.
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We recommend that you tuck away a few extra dollars a day for incidentals.
In Ulaanbaatar, guests can look forward to staying at the Bayangol Hotel, a popular 4-star property.
During the cycling and adventure portions of the trip, camping accommodations will be offered in tents that have a strong reputation for their ability to stand up to Mongolia’s weather conditions.
A mess tent (dome or traditional Mongolian style), toilet (with a seat) and shower tents are also provided. All accommodations described in the itinerary are included in the tour cost.
Ulaanbaatar: Bayangol Hotel
http://www.bayangolhotel.mn/
In Ulaanbaatar, guests can look forward to staying at the Bayangol Hotel, a popular 4-star property.
During the cycling and adventure portions of the trip, camping accommodations will be offered in tents that have a strong reputation for their ability to stand up to Mongolia’s weather conditions.
A mess tent (dome or traditional Mongolian style), toilet (with a seat) and shower tents are also provided. All accommodations described in the itinerary are included in the tour cost.
Ulaanbaatar: Bayangol Hotel
http://www.bayangolhotel.mn/
The bikes are well-known makes mountain bikes (depending on the tour) with lightweight alloy frames, 24- to 27-speed gearing, v-brakes and Shimano components and front suspension.
If you bring your own bike, please make sure it is a mountain bike, preferably with front suspension, and that it is in good mechanical order.
Basic spares and tools are carried by the guide and on the support vehicle, though we cannot guarantee having spares for every conceivable problem. Carrying a basic tool kit, a spare tube and a pump while riding is recommended.
Wearing a helmet is compulsory on all our biking adventures. Your guide is trained in first aid and emergency rescue, but to a large degree you must be responsible for your own safety while riding. It is therefore compulsory that you take out travel insurance that will cover you for a mountain biking tour.
The bikes are well-known makes mountain bikes (depending on the tour) with lightweight alloy frames, 24- to 27-speed gearing, v-brakes and Shimano components and front suspension.
If you bring your own bike, please make sure it is a mountain bike, preferably with front suspension, and that it is in good mechanical order.
Basic spares and tools are carried by the guide and on the support vehicle, though we cannot guarantee having spares for every conceivable problem. Carrying a basic tool kit, a spare tube and a pump while riding is recommended.
Wearing a helmet is compulsory on all our biking adventures. Your guide is trained in first aid and emergency rescue, but to a large degree you must be responsible for your own safety while riding. It is therefore compulsory that you take out travel insurance that will cover you for a mountain biking tour.
You will be led by a local English-speaking guide and if the group is 10 people or more we will add another guide to the tour. All our guides are well informed in the history, culture and religions of the area where you are biking and are skilled at passing that knowledge on to you. Your guide is also medically trained and an experienced cyclist, able to handle most minor repairs en route.
We will be supported by air-conditioned vehicle that have been specially modified for cycle tours. The vehicles follow us the whole time and are always available for tired cyclists. It is very easy to get bikes on and off, so you can rest when you are tired and cycle whenever you feel like it.
You will be led by a local English-speaking guide and if the group is 10 people or more we will add another guide to the tour. All our guides are well informed in the history, culture and religions of the area where you are biking and are skilled at passing that knowledge on to you. Your guide is also medically trained and an experienced cyclist, able to handle most minor repairs en route.
We will be supported by air-conditioned vehicle that have been specially modified for cycle tours. The vehicles follow us the whole time and are always available for tired cyclists. It is very easy to get bikes on and off, so you can rest when you are tired and cycle whenever you feel like it.
This trip is recommended for confident and physically fit riders looking for a challenging experience with a lot of off road terrain. At times, the experience may seem demanding, but the rewards for an adventurous spirit are immense and will provide a lifetime of memories once you decide to get on your bike and go!
Just over 370 kilometers will be covered in seven and half cycling days on a little bit of everything: dirt roads littered with small rocks, riverbeds, long downhill stretches followed by short steep climbs, compressed earthy terrain and trails that have mainly been used by horses. Those with an adventurous spirit will get the most out of this cycle tour.
Suitability
This tour is rated Challenging and is for cyclists on above average phsyical condition. The majority of this cycling trip takes place off road and therefore we recommend that cyclists are physically fit and confident riding on rough terrain. Because this trip is fully supported, weary cyclists can take breaks in the support vehicles if required.
Biking Conditions
The off road portions of this trip are complimented by flat, hard-packed terrain. While the trails are generally smooth, some passes have loose gravel and sandy patches that could prove hazardous to riders. Additionally, some of the descents can be rocky.
This trip is recommended for confident and physically fit riders looking for a challenging experience with a lot of off road terrain. At times, the experience may seem demanding, but the rewards for an adventurous spirit are immense and will provide a lifetime of memories once you decide to get on your bike and go!
Just over 370 kilometers will be covered in seven and half cycling days on a little bit of everything: dirt roads littered with small rocks, riverbeds, long downhill stretches followed by short steep climbs, compressed earthy terrain and trails that have mainly been used by horses. Those with an adventurous spirit will get the most out of this cycle tour.
Suitability
This tour is rated Challenging and is for cyclists on above average phsyical condition. The majority of this cycling trip takes place off road and therefore we recommend that cyclists are physically fit and confident riding on rough terrain. Because this trip is fully supported, weary cyclists can take breaks in the support vehicles if required.
Biking Conditions
The off road portions of this trip are complimented by flat, hard-packed terrain. While the trails are generally smooth, some passes have loose gravel and sandy patches that could prove hazardous to riders. Additionally, some of the descents can be rocky.
Tour start and end
Nearest airport: Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
This tour begins and ends in Ulaanbaatar. International flights, to and from the start and finish points are not included in the tour price, however, we have reserved seats on flights from Beijing to ensure passage for tour participants to Ulaanbaatar. Domestic flight to Bayankhongor is included. If you need help or advice arranging flights please contact us.
Tour start and end
Nearest airport: Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
This tour begins and ends in Ulaanbaatar. International flights, to and from the start and finish points are not included in the tour price, however, we have reserved seats on flights from Beijing to ensure passage for tour participants to Ulaanbaatar. Domestic flight to Bayankhongor is included. If you need help or advice arranging flights please contact us.
Mongolia is home to extreme weather conditions that are constantly changing. Summertime occurs during the months of June, July, and August and daytime temperatures range from 68-86 degrees F (20 to 30 degrees C) and 59 degrees F (15 degrees C) in the evenings.
This is also the rainy season, so plan on getting wet during your two- week adventure. Autumn begins in September, with daytime temperatures of 59 to 77 degrees F(15 to 25 degrees C). During the winter, temperatures in Mongolia can drop to -40 degrees C, however snow can fall at any given time of the year.
No matter the time of year, please be prepared for cool and wet weather and bring appropriate clothing.
Weather Underground offers information on average and record temperatures at many destinations throughout the globe. Type a destination in the search box and enter a travel date range to learn about seasonal weather patterns.
Mongolia is home to extreme weather conditions that are constantly changing. Summertime occurs during the months of June, July, and August and daytime temperatures range from 68-86 degrees F (20 to 30 degrees C) and 59 degrees F (15 degrees C) in the evenings.
This is also the rainy season, so plan on getting wet during your two- week adventure. Autumn begins in September, with daytime temperatures of 59 to 77 degrees F(15 to 25 degrees C). During the winter, temperatures in Mongolia can drop to -40 degrees C, however snow can fall at any given time of the year.
No matter the time of year, please be prepared for cool and wet weather and bring appropriate clothing.
Weather Underground offers information on average and record temperatures at many destinations throughout the globe. Type a destination in the search box and enter a travel date range to learn about seasonal weather patterns.
Passports
All nationalities entering Mongolia require a full passport that must be valid for six months beyond the intended length of stay. Most nationalities require a single entry visa for trips to Mongolia, but if there are any questions whether you are exempt from this requirement, please contact local authorities or your agent. Cost is 25 USD (except US citizens fee is waived). Visa regulations in Mongolia can and do change without notice, so please give yourself enough time to check the current regulations to ensure you have the proper documents before embarking on this trip. If only transiting through China then there is no need for a Chinese Visa.
Health
Recommended vaccinations include typhoid, polio, tetanus and Hepatitis A. A certificate for Yellow Fever is required if arriving from an infected area within the prior six days. This is not a malarial area. Please speak to your doctor/physician for the most recent information.
Passports
All nationalities entering Mongolia require a full passport that must be valid for six months beyond the intended length of stay. Most nationalities require a single entry visa for trips to Mongolia, but if there are any questions whether you are exempt from this requirement, please contact local authorities or your agent. Cost is 25 USD (except US citizens fee is waived). Visa regulations in Mongolia can and do change without notice, so please give yourself enough time to check the current regulations to ensure you have the proper documents before embarking on this trip. If only transiting through China then there is no need for a Chinese Visa.
Health
Recommended vaccinations include typhoid, polio, tetanus and Hepatitis A. A certificate for Yellow Fever is required if arriving from an infected area within the prior six days. This is not a malarial area. Please speak to your doctor/physician for the most recent information.
Food
Meals are included in the itinerary where B = breakfast, L = lunch, and D = dinner. Most meals will be prepared by the cooking team on the support staff and feature Western-style cuisine with a sampling of Mongolian food. Any special dietary requirements can also be catered for as well. Please let us know at the time of booking.
Drink
Keeping you completely hydrated is a job we take very seriously. Cold water, some energy-restoring local fruit and soft drinks are included in the tour price while riding. Soft drinks and other beverages during meals are not included. Beer and alcohol are NOT included in the price.
Food
Meals are included in the itinerary where B = breakfast, L = lunch, and D = dinner. Most meals will be prepared by the cooking team on the support staff and feature Western-style cuisine with a sampling of Mongolian food. Any special dietary requirements can also be catered for as well. Please let us know at the time of booking.
Drink
Keeping you completely hydrated is a job we take very seriously. Cold water, some energy-restoring local fruit and soft drinks are included in the tour price while riding. Soft drinks and other beverages during meals are not included. Beer and alcohol are NOT included in the price.
The Mongolian currency is the togrog (T). Dollars can be changed at banks and exchange offices in Ulaanbaatar. There are ATMs in the capital which accept Visa and MasterCard and work most of the time, but it is best to have a debit card linked to your bank account. Remember to change all your togrog when leaving the country as it’s worthless elsewhere.
We recommend that you tuck away a few extra dollars a day for incidentals. Included entrance fees are those for the listed sites and national parks that are part of the itinerary. Any other site fees are not included.
The Mongolian currency is the togrog (T). Dollars can be changed at banks and exchange offices in Ulaanbaatar. There are ATMs in the capital which accept Visa and MasterCard and work most of the time, but it is best to have a debit card linked to your bank account. Remember to change all your togrog when leaving the country as it’s worthless elsewhere.
We recommend that you tuck away a few extra dollars a day for incidentals. Included entrance fees are those for the listed sites and national parks that are part of the itinerary. Any other site fees are not included.
SpiceRoads endeavors to offer high-quality, educational, and adventure-filled itineraries that highlight and focus on the diversity of landscapes found in Asia and its people. As a specialized "niche" bicycle tour operator since 2000, we provide the most authentic, unique and exciting adventures in Asia.
The SpiceRoads family began back in the mid 1990s, when Hamish Keith was creating, operating and leading ground breaking cycle tours throughout Thailand and in emerging destinations such as Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar for well known companies such as Exodus Travels and World Expeditions and his own company the Wild Planet.
In 2000 Hamish decided to concentrate on what he loved doing the most and he established SpiceRoads as a specialist cycle tour operator in the region he knew best - Southeast Asia. The “niche” was to promote bicycle group tours directly to clients all around the world via the internet. Hamish set the standard for all subsequent SpiceRoads tours by offering a high quality tour - from customer service, to bicycles, to well researched routes to the guides we use – at a good value.
In 2002, when Hamish left to pursue other opportunities in the travel industry, Struan Robertson came on board, and with his skills in management, IT and of course cycling, the company has grown to encompass other Asian countries. During the years of growth what hasn't changed is the spirit of SpiceRoads, which is to offer professional, international standard cycle tours and services to independent travellers and cycle enthusiast looking to discover Asia by bicycle.
Our well-planned eye-opening cycling tours provide an active immersion into local cultures, languages, scenery and, of course, the most delicious of foods. By combining legendary service and rare opportunities for cultural experiences, our travel philosophy continues to excite, enthuse, and positively impact every guest. Take a look at our guestbook if you don't believe us!
SpiceRoads' staff and all of our professionally licensed multi-lingual tour guides are passionate about creating the best possible experiences, with fun, creativity, and total dedication to satisfaction.
We're always peddling towards making your tour perfect so you can See Asia by Bicycle!
SpiceRoads endeavors to offer high-quality, educational, and adventure-filled itineraries that highlight and focus on the diversity of landscapes found in Asia and its people. As a specialized "niche" bicycle tour operator since 2000, we provide the most authentic, unique and exciting adventures in Asia.
The SpiceRoads family began back in the mid 1990s, when Hamish Keith was creating, operating and leading ground breaking cycle tours throughout Thailand and in emerging destinations such as Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar for well known companies such as Exodus Travels and World Expeditions and his own company the Wild Planet.
In 2000 Hamish decided to concentrate on what he loved doing the most and he established SpiceRoads as a specialist cycle tour operator in the region he knew best - Southeast Asia. The “niche” was to promote bicycle group tours directly to clients all around the world via the internet. Hamish set the standard for all subsequent SpiceRoads tours by offering a high quality tour - from customer service, to bicycles, to well researched routes to the guides we use – at a good value.
In 2002, when Hamish left to pursue other opportunities in the travel industry, Struan Robertson came on board, and with his skills in management, IT and of course cycling, the company has grown to encompass other Asian countries. During the years of growth what hasn't changed is the spirit of SpiceRoads, which is to offer professional, international standard cycle tours and services to independent travellers and cycle enthusiast looking to discover Asia by bicycle.
Our well-planned eye-opening cycling tours provide an active immersion into local cultures, languages, scenery and, of course, the most delicious of foods. By combining legendary service and rare opportunities for cultural experiences, our travel philosophy continues to excite, enthuse, and positively impact every guest. Take a look at our guestbook if you don't believe us!
SpiceRoads' staff and all of our professionally licensed multi-lingual tour guides are passionate about creating the best possible experiences, with fun, creativity, and total dedication to satisfaction.
We're always peddling towards making your tour perfect so you can See Asia by Bicycle!
(Involuntary) On the rare occasions when we, SpiceRoads, must cancel a trip, all payments received to date will be 100% refunded, which constitutes full settlement. There will be absolutely no deductions.
(Voluntary) If you, the client, must cancel your reservation, your cancellation fee will be determined according to the following formula:
For all tours (except short Thailand tours 4 days or less, see below):
|
Number of days prior to trip start |
Cancellation fee per person |
|
90+ days |
Admin expenses* |
|
60-89 days |
Deposit paid |
|
30-59 days |
50% of tour price |
|
15-29 days |
70% of tour price |
|
0-14 days |
No refund |
**Administration fees include bank fees and exchange rate losses.
Exceptions to this policy cannot be made for any reason, including weather or personal emergencies. Please note:
We strongly advise that clients have full personal travel insurance that covers for the refund of monies paid in case either party cancels the tour for any reason.
We regret that we cannot be held responsible for incidental/consequential costs or expenses you may incur as a result of any changes or cancellations. No compensation is payable for minor changes.
Any damages/injuries incurred that are attributable to your own actions, acts of some other party unconnected with the contract services or where the damage/injury results from events/circumstances which our outside our control and could not be reasonably foreseen.
For damages where SpiceRoads is responsible, our liability is strictly limited to twice the total price of the tour. In booking a tour with SpiceRoads you, the client, are agreeing to these terms and you accept this limit on our liability. This limit allows us to keep the prices of our tours as low as possible.
You must be in possession of a valid passport and all the visas and permits required for your tour. This includes any medical certificates that are required. The client accepts full responsibility for obtaining any and all such documentation. Every client is encouraged to contact the consulate/embassy for the countries they are traveling in respectively to receive the latest and most current information about their immigration / transit policies.
SpiceRoads does not accept responsibility if your documentation is not in order. Information provided by the company about these matters and other related items (clothing, baggage, climate etc.) is given in good faith but without responsibility on the part of the company.
For all tours (except short Thailand tours 4 days or less, see below):
SpiceRoads insists that all clients must take out good travel insurance before joining one of our tours. There are inherent risks involved in cycling and mountain biking and we will not be liable for your medical expenses or evacuation in case of an accident.
This insurance must include adequate coverage for any personal accident, medical expenses, injury, death and repatriation. Insurance should also provide coverage for cancellations or curtailment of the holiday. Clients should also ensure that there are no exclusion clauses limiting protection for any dangerous or unusual activities that might be included in their tour.
If you join the tour without adequate insurance you may be disallowed from continuing on the tour without the right of refund. Clients are solely responsible for arranging their own insurance and they should ensure that they are covered for the full duration of their tour. Your tour leader will ask for copies of your insurance before allowing you to join the tour. This protects both you and us.
In case of an accident, please consult with your tour leader or contact our reservation staff at +66(0) 89 895 5680 (24 hour hot line).
Upon signing up for a tour you must agree to accept the authority of the tour leader who is the representative of the company. The tour leader should be regarded as the same as a “ship’s captain” or an airline’s “Pilot.”
At all times the authority of your tour leader will be final when concerning matters likely to endanger your own health or safety or in regard to behavior or ill health that is causing or is likely to cause danger, distress or disturbance to the group and the well-being of the tour. Failure to abide by the authority of the tour leader could result in legal proceedings and the immediate termination of your participation in the tour without recourse.
In such circumstances we reserve the right to terminate all travel arrangements without liability on the part of the company. You must always comply with the local law, customs and drug regulations of the country/ies you are visiting. Failure to do so may lead to you being ordered to leave the tour without recourse to any refund or any legal claim against the company. In the case of ill health the company and its operators can make those arrangements that it sees fit and recover all monies paid from the client. The person who signs the booking form (which incorporates these conditions) warrants that he/she does so, with full authority on behalf of all those whose names appear thereon, and confirms thereby that all such persons accept and are fully aware of these conditions.
No refund will be given for non-utilized services, however if we are able to obtain a refund ourselves for these services we will endeavor to pass these on to the client less reasonable administration charges.
SpiceRoads pledges never to increase the tour price except under exceptional circumstances for those that have previously book the tour. Circumstances of this policy include: government action or legislation that directs the company to increase prices, exceptional and unfavorable changes in exchange rates that exceed a 20% fluctuation or currency devaluation.
Clients will be notified of any price increase at least 4 weeks before departure.
We will not accept any liability for any delay in your outward or inward flight/s, whether the cancellation or delay is caused by the weather, airline rescheduling, industrial action or mechanical failure. We will give no refunds or compensation for lost time and services from the itinerary.
Should you have a complaint while on tour, you must notify your guide, or the local operator, at the earliest opportunity, so that they can do what they can to immediately rectify it. Failure to do so will result in the limiting of a client's ability to claim compensation. If the problem is not brought to our attention we have no opportunity to rectify it. Any complaints should be sent to us in writing, or by email, not more than 28 days after the tour ends.
Complaints related to booking, inquires, billing, sales or operations should be directed to the Sales and Marketing Manager and/or the General Manager.
If there is anything else you need to know or want to hear in order to put your mind at rest, please do not hesitate to contact us.
SpiceRoads is not liable for any bodily injury or property damage as a result of (but not limited to): physical exertion for which a guest is not prepared; forces of nature; travel by plane, train, auto, boat or other conveyance, or by bicycle, horseback, foot or other form of active or adventure travel; consumption of alcoholic beverages; civil unrest; terrorism; breakdown of equipment; high altitude; lack of or limited access to medical attention in remote locations; and the adequacy of medical attention once provided.
SpiceRoads is also not liable for: expenses (e.g., meals, transportation or hotel costs) that are not specified as included in the trip cost but may be required to get to or from a trip start or end point.
SpiceRoads reserves the right to make route and hotel modifications as necessary to improve the trip quality or to accommodate the comfort and well-being of guests. Guests grant SpiceRoads express permission to take photographs or make film records of its trips for promotional and commercial use, as well as approve such use by third parties with whom SpiceRoads may engage in joint marketing, without financial remuneration.
To view our liability release form click here. You will be asked to sign this form before you start your tour.
(Involuntary) On the rare occasions when we, SpiceRoads, must cancel a trip, all payments received to date will be 100% refunded, which constitutes full settlement. There will be absolutely no deductions.
(Voluntary) If you, the client, must cancel your reservation, your cancellation fee will be determined according to the following formula:
For all tours (except short Thailand tours 4 days or less, see below):
|
Number of days prior to trip start |
Cancellation fee per person |
|
90+ days |
Admin expenses* |
|
60-89 days |
Deposit paid |
|
30-59 days |
50% of tour price |
|
15-29 days |
70% of tour price |
|
0-14 days |
No refund |
**Administration fees include bank fees and exchange rate losses.
Exceptions to this policy cannot be made for any reason, including weather or personal emergencies. Please note:
We strongly advise that clients have full personal travel insurance that covers for the refund of monies paid in case either party cancels the tour for any reason.
We regret that we cannot be held responsible for incidental/consequential costs or expenses you may incur as a result of any changes or cancellations. No compensation is payable for minor changes.
Any damages/injuries incurred that are attributable to your own actions, acts of some other party unconnected with the contract services or where the damage/injury results from events/circumstances which our outside our control and could not be reasonably foreseen.
For damages where SpiceRoads is responsible, our liability is strictly limited to twice the total price of the tour. In booking a tour with SpiceRoads you, the client, are agreeing to these terms and you accept this limit on our liability. This limit allows us to keep the prices of our tours as low as possible.
You must be in possession of a valid passport and all the visas and permits required for your tour. This includes any medical certificates that are required. The client accepts full responsibility for obtaining any and all such documentation. Every client is encouraged to contact the consulate/embassy for the countries they are traveling in respectively to receive the latest and most current information about their immigration / transit policies.
SpiceRoads does not accept responsibility if your documentation is not in order. Information provided by the company about these matters and other related items (clothing, baggage, climate etc.) is given in good faith but without responsibility on the part of the company.
For all tours (except short Thailand tours 4 days or less, see below):
SpiceRoads insists that all clients must take out good travel insurance before joining one of our tours. There are inherent risks involved in cycling and mountain biking and we will not be liable for your medical expenses or evacuation in case of an accident.
This insurance must include adequate coverage for any personal accident, medical expenses, injury, death and repatriation. Insurance should also provide coverage for cancellations or curtailment of the holiday. Clients should also ensure that there are no exclusion clauses limiting protection for any dangerous or unusual activities that might be included in their tour.
If you join the tour without adequate insurance you may be disallowed from continuing on the tour without the right of refund. Clients are solely responsible for arranging their own insurance and they should ensure that they are covered for the full duration of their tour. Your tour leader will ask for copies of your insurance before allowing you to join the tour. This protects both you and us.
In case of an accident, please consult with your tour leader or contact our reservation staff at +66(0) 89 895 5680 (24 hour hot line).
Upon signing up for a tour you must agree to accept the authority of the tour leader who is the representative of the company. The tour leader should be regarded as the same as a “ship’s captain” or an airline’s “Pilot.”
At all times the authority of your tour leader will be final when concerning matters likely to endanger your own health or safety or in regard to behavior or ill health that is causing or is likely to cause danger, distress or disturbance to the group and the well-being of the tour. Failure to abide by the authority of the tour leader could result in legal proceedings and the immediate termination of your participation in the tour without recourse.
In such circumstances we reserve the right to terminate all travel arrangements without liability on the part of the company. You must always comply with the local law, customs and drug regulations of the country/ies you are visiting. Failure to do so may lead to you being ordered to leave the tour without recourse to any refund or any legal claim against the company. In the case of ill health the company and its operators can make those arrangements that it sees fit and recover all monies paid from the client. The person who signs the booking form (which incorporates these conditions) warrants that he/she does so, with full authority on behalf of all those whose names appear thereon, and confirms thereby that all such persons accept and are fully aware of these conditions.
No refund will be given for non-utilized services, however if we are able to obtain a refund ourselves for these services we will endeavor to pass these on to the client less reasonable administration charges.
SpiceRoads pledges never to increase the tour price except under exceptional circumstances for those that have previously book the tour. Circumstances of this policy include: government action or legislation that directs the company to increase prices, exceptional and unfavorable changes in exchange rates that exceed a 20% fluctuation or currency devaluation.
Clients will be notified of any price increase at least 4 weeks before departure.
We will not accept any liability for any delay in your outward or inward flight/s, whether the cancellation or delay is caused by the weather, airline rescheduling, industrial action or mechanical failure. We will give no refunds or compensation for lost time and services from the itinerary.
Should you have a complaint while on tour, you must notify your guide, or the local operator, at the earliest opportunity, so that they can do what they can to immediately rectify it. Failure to do so will result in the limiting of a client's ability to claim compensation. If the problem is not brought to our attention we have no opportunity to rectify it. Any complaints should be sent to us in writing, or by email, not more than 28 days after the tour ends.
Complaints related to booking, inquires, billing, sales or operations should be directed to the Sales and Marketing Manager and/or the General Manager.
If there is anything else you need to know or want to hear in order to put your mind at rest, please do not hesitate to contact us.
SpiceRoads is not liable for any bodily injury or property damage as a result of (but not limited to): physical exertion for which a guest is not prepared; forces of nature; travel by plane, train, auto, boat or other conveyance, or by bicycle, horseback, foot or other form of active or adventure travel; consumption of alcoholic beverages; civil unrest; terrorism; breakdown of equipment; high altitude; lack of or limited access to medical attention in remote locations; and the adequacy of medical attention once provided.
SpiceRoads is also not liable for: expenses (e.g., meals, transportation or hotel costs) that are not specified as included in the trip cost but may be required to get to or from a trip start or end point.
SpiceRoads reserves the right to make route and hotel modifications as necessary to improve the trip quality or to accommodate the comfort and well-being of guests. Guests grant SpiceRoads express permission to take photographs or make film records of its trips for promotional and commercial use, as well as approve such use by third parties with whom SpiceRoads may engage in joint marketing, without financial remuneration.
To view our liability release form click here. You will be asked to sign this form before you start your tour.
