The Mekong forms the natural border between Laos and Thailand. We follow the Mekong, the lifeline of northern Thailand, from Udon Thani to Ubon Ratchathani and experience the Laotian influences on the local food and culture.
Road bike tour through the northeast of Thailand, riding along the Mekong River from Udon Thani to Ubon Ratchathani. Tour profile: mostly flat, rolling at times.
10 days | 9 nights | 8 stages from 81 - 125 km | Total = 821 km
Day 1 | Arrival in Udon Thani / Journey to Udon Thani
Participants arrive and transfer to the hotel individually, which is located in a park on the northern edge of the town. In the evening, we will welcome all participants in the hotel foyer. They will receive information about the tour and helpful information about our host country. Afterwards, our SIAM BIKE TOURS jerseys will be handed out to all participants and the rental bikes will be adjusted to your size and specifications before the start of the tour the following morning.
Day 2 | 1st stage:Udon Thani – Nong Khai | 81 km | flat | B/L included
After a short ride through the city we say farewell to Udon Thani. We proceed towards the north on rural roads, passing rice fields, plantations (tapioca, tobacco) and temples. Peaceful villages greet us along our route. After 25 km we reach Tha Bo and get our first glimpse of the Mekong River, the Nile of Southeast Asia. At this point, the Mekong, also acts as the border between Laos and Thailand. We will roll along the river to the border town of Nong Khai. Here, the famous "friendship-bridge" connects Thailand with Laos as it majestically spans the mighty Mekong. The distance to Vientiane, the Laotian capital, is only 9 km! Nong Khai is a well-known trading place, and is influenced by the French Indochinese culture, that found its way across the Mekong from Laos. The local market, located directly on the riverbank, is known as a shopping heaven for products from both Laos and Vietnam. We will stay at a beautiful resort with a refreshing swimming pool. Tired riders may also choose to enjoy a relaxing Thai massage.
Day 3 | 2nd stage: Nong Khai – Ban Muang | 106 km | flat | B/L/D included
We enjoy the views of the Mekong River, our constant companion for the coming days. Looking across the river we can see Laos on the opposite bank. We pass countless rice fields and plantations as water buffalos stare inquisitively at our colourful group. Every village here has its own temple. We use the afternoon hours to visit a very nice lake nearby. Take a swim or just relax on the raft.
Day 4 | 3rd stage: Ban Muang – Sakon Nakhon | 125 km | flat | B/L included
We move on incredibly perfect roads through a varied agricultural area. For the last 25 km, the main road takes us to Sakon Nakhon, which is located on Nong Han Lake. The lake is the largest natural freshwater lake in Thailand with an extension of about 125 square kilometers.
Day 5 | 4th stage:Sakon Nakhon - Nakhon Phanom | 113 km | rolling | B/L included
This stage takes us from the interior back to the Mekong River, which is the natural border between Laos and Thailand. The scenery on the Laotian side is dominated by forested mountains. On our side, it's rice fields. As cyclists, you will have difficulty deciding which side of the river is more attractive! The stage destination is Nakhon Phanom, a town idyllically situated on the river. The impressive temple "Wat That Phanom" is a popular pilgrimage destination amongst Thai Buddhists. We can relax at the hotel, which has an excellent view of the Mekong River. We will top up on burnt calories with a romantic dinner by the river..
Day 6 | 5th stage:Nakhon Phanom - Mukdahan | 101 km | slightly rolling | B included
Gradually the profile of the landscape begins to change. The rice fields subside, and more hills and forests appear. We reach Mukdahan, another border town on the Mekong. Eight separate tribes from different cultures and origins live here together in harmony. A bridge connects Mukdahan with the little Laotian town of Savannahket. The town’s exotic Indo-Chinese market is a must for shopping.
Gradually the profile of the landscape begins to change. The rice fields subside, and more hills and forests appear. We reach Mukdahan, another border town on the Mekong. Eight separate tribes from different cultures and origins live here together in harmony. A bridge connects Mukdahan with the little Laotian town of Savannahket. The town’s exotic Indo-Chinese market is a must for shopping.
Day 7 | 6th stage:Mukdahan – Khemmarat | Mukdahan – Khemmarat | 89 km | slightly rolling | B/L included
On a beautiful back road, we drive constantly along the river. We arrive at Khemmarat, which is located in the province of Ubon Ratchathani. The terrain is slightly wavy and leads through wooded area. Our resort offers a fantastic view of the river. This small town has retained the charm of bygone times to this day.
After 21 km, we bid a wistful good bye to the Mekong, our companion over the last 5 days. We ride west into terrain that gradually becomes hillier and slightly rolling, passing through forests and plantations to reach the city of Amnat Charoen.
Day 8 | 7th stage:Khemmarat - Khong Chiam | 122 km | 2 easy ascents | B/L included
After 44 km we marvel at Sam Phan Bok Viewpoint as the river meanders through a bizarre rock landscape. The road now leads through charming hills and forests. The final destination is very well known as it is here that the waters of the Mekong and Mun Rivers join. The locals call this part of the river "Mae Naam Song See" - meaning the two-coloured river. Our resort is located directly on the bank of the Mun River in an enchanting landscape, with a view of Laos on the far bank. You can choose from activities including relaxing by the pool, kayaking on the river, enjoying a massage or just letting your hair down and savouring the natural surroundings.
In order to satisfy our desire to see the mighty Mekong once more, we cycle southeast to Khong Chiam. The little village is very well known as it is here that the waters of the Mekong and Mun Rivers join. The locals call this part of the river "Mae Naam Song See" - meaning the two-coloured river. Our resort is located directly on the bank of the Mun River in an enchanting landscape, with a view of Laos on the far bank. You can choose from activities including relaxing by the pool, kayaking on the river, enjoying a massage or just letting your hair down and savouring the natural surroundings.
Day 9 | 8th stage:Khong Chiam - Ubon Ratchathani | 84 km | flat | B/L included
We wave the last "Good bye" to the Mekong River. As a treat, nature has sprinkled our final stage with a few mildly undulating sections. The last cycle into Ubon Ratchathani is flat and is a pure pleasure to ride. Travelling towards the west, we cycle through tiny villages, along rice and cotton fields with open savannahs and mixed forests landscapes alternating in the background. In the last few miles to the hotel, we have the opportunity to explore the provincial capital Ubon Ratchathani on our bikes. As is our tradition, we raise our glasses in the hotel to toast to the wonderful bike tour that we have completed.
Day 10 | Individual journey back home or extension as one chooses
After a final breakfast buffet, you are once again at leisure. The nearby Ubon Ratchathani airport has daily flights on airlines such as Thai Airways, Air Asia etc., making returning to Bangkok or continuing on to other destinations within Thailand easy. For an extended journey within the area, we suggest a trip to Laos to visit the Si Phan Don (4,000 islands). This magical delta of islands located in the Mekong, just above its largest waterfall, is an amazing area and remains a quiet destination, off the beaten tourist track.
CANYON Endurace AL (Compact) – maximum comfort meets performance – the innovative Endurace concept to Canyon aluminium road range. Effortless rolling performance and a smooth ride, a more upright position sport geometry relieves key muscles.
With its carefully-selected components and a frame which brings unbeatable value and there’s not much left to consider.
Features Aluminium Canyon Endurace:
✓ Aluminium, confiscated tube set
✓ One One Eight SL Carbon fork
✓ Shimano Ultegra: 50-34
✓ Casette: 11-32, 11 speed
✓ Frame sizes: Frame sizes: XS- 3XL
Bike Rental Price for this Tour
CANYON Ultimate CF SLX 8.0 Di2 – With race-ready components, electronic shifting, and a state-of-the-art frame, you get a featherweight road bike that shines in all conditions.
The Ultimate CF SLX 8.0 Di2 excels at everything from the toughest alpine stages to quick jaunts on the roads at home.
Features Carbon Di2 Canyon:
✓ Electronic Gear Shifting
✓ Ultimate CF SLX Carbon Frame
✓ Shimano Ultegra Di2: 50-34
✓ Casette: 11-28, 11 speed
✓ Frame sizes: XS-XL
Carbon Bike Rental Price for this Tour
A contract is being completed between you and Siam Bike Tours (SBT) by inscribing yourself. The terms of the business of SBT are the basis of this contract. The person inscribing will be held responsible for the liability of all person inscribed by him.
Our services are being described within the present website. Any special requests or side agreements will only be part of the contract if confirmed unconditionally by SBT in written form.
Upon receiving SBT’s booking confirmation, you will have to make a down payment of 25% of the amount due. The rest has to be paid 6 weeks ahead of the starting date of your trip. If the payment has not been made on time, SBT may deny the booked services and claim processing fees.
The traveler’s withdrawal will take effect after a written withdrawal declaration has come in at SBT. The following cancellation fees will be charged:
By paying a fee of THB 5,000 you may change your booking to a person replacing you up till 14 days before starting the trip. In addition to this person, you will remain fully liable for paying the full travel price towards Siam Bike Tours.
There is no legal right to make changes with respect to the date of the journey and the destination after concluding the contract. If changes of reservation are possible and Siam Bike Tours agrees to them, the following cancellation fees will be charged. You have to alert us to this change in writing.
SBT reserves the right to change the catalog of services and prices/rates before your booking. If this is the case, SBT will duly inform you before the completion of the contract. Any increase in prices and rates may be necessary for the cost of transport or the hotel rates increase, or if the currency exchange rate is modified.
All offered trips will take place at a minimum number of 4 participants. If this number is not reached, SBT may cancel the trip until 14 days before its starting date.
SBT is entitled to cancel the trip if by your acts or omissions you are creating a justifiable cause. In this case, SBT will refund the traveling price paid.
You are starting a trip but cannot finish it
If due to any reason you abandon a trip ahead of time, no refund can be made.
If during the trip a change of program has to be made (e.g. due to weather conditions) that affects a considerable part of the planned trip, SBT will refund the possible difference between the agreed travel price and this of the services adduced.
Any events of force majeure such as riots, catastrophes, epidemics, etc. may cause SBT to cancel the trip. In such a case SBT will inform you as soon as possible.
A travel cancellation insurance is not included in SBT’s tours. Such an insurance may be contracted with any travel insurance company.
SBT is liable within the limits of its obligation to exercise diligence for all specified services. The traveler takes part in the trip at his own risk. Particularly, the traveler is responsible for his state of health, his road behavior, the observance of the traffic regulations and all other local regulations regarding traffic. In no case, SBT may be held liable for any physical or material damages, that the traveler may suffer or cause by practicing cycling, even when riding in an SBT’s group or with a guide.
The Court of Jurisdiction is in Thailand.
All of our tours will be arranged into small groups and guided by an experienced tour guide. Tours are suitable for any enthusiastic cyclist in reasonable shape.
The group will determine the riding speed on any stage; faster riders may go ahead together, regrouping at selected refreshment stops with the others. During our tours it is mandatory to wear a helmet.
The Siam Bike Tours minibus will transport all luggage, spare parts, wheels, tools, etc. During all of the rides we will offer water, soft drinks and fresh fruit. If desired, any rider may complete the day’s stage by bus.
All nationalities require a passport for entry into Thailand. Please ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond the duration of your stay in the country. If staying less than 30 days then a visa in advance is not required by European, North American, Australian and many other nationalities. Please check this page to see if you qualify. You will need to show proof of an onward flight out of Thailand to be eligible for the visa on arrival. This is strictly enforced.
We recommend that you visit a travel medical doctor and ask about the following vaccinations: typhoid, polio, tetanus and hepatitis A. A certificate for Yellow Fever is required when arriving from an infected area within six days.
The Thai currency is the baht. ATM’s, which are abundant, are the easiest ways to get Thai baht. Have a supply of US dollars in cash on hand, just in case your card doesn’t work. Banks or the rarer private money changers offer the best foreign-exchange rates. Credit cards are accepted in big cities and resort hotels but you’ll need baht for family-run guesthouses or restaurants.
Thailand generally has a tropical climate with fairly high humidity. The North and Central region have a tropical climate with fairly high humidity. Northeast Thailand has a humid hot and dry weather alternatively with medium rain while the coastal areas of the east are humid and hot with intermittent rain. The South of Thailand has a tropical climate with fairly high humidity.
There are three seasons: from March to June it is hot and dry, with temperatures between 27˚C/80 F and 40˚C/104 F, with night temperatures in the 20s. The rainy season is from July to October, but temperatures are slightly lower, because of the effect of the rain. During this time it will not rain continuously, but in sharp bursts, and the sun can come out quickly. The cooler season is from October to February, with average temperatures between 20˚C/68 F and 30˚C/86 F
