Our shortlist of epic cycle trips around the world

When much of your trip involves getting from place to place, choosing to cycle is an excellent option for most able-bodied travelers. Like hiking or running, cycling delivers the thrill of exploration with none of the carbon footprint. There’s a unique joy in cruising through unfamiliar landscapes on your own power, free from the confines of cars or buses. To help you plan your next adventure, we’ve put together a shortlist of some of the best cycling vacations around the world, perfect for anyone who loves the freedom and challenge of two wheels!

Beyond Europe, vibrant cities like Beijing, Buenos Aires, and Cape Town are quickly becoming top destinations for exploring by bike. For the more serious cyclist, epic routes await, whether it’s Bolivia’s heart-pounding ‘Death Road’ or the demanding 500-mile ‘Friendship Highway’ stretching between Tibet and Nepal, these trips can last anywhere from two weeks to two months. But if you’re after a more relaxed ride, simply soaking in iconic sights at your own pace, these seven scenic cycling tours offer the perfect blend of adventure and leisure.

1. India: Highlights of the North

When most people think of India, the chaotic, crowded streets of New Delhi (filled with cars, cows, and constant activity) might seem like the last place you’d want to tackle by bike. And you wouldn’t be entirely wrong. However, a carefully planned cycling tour through Northern India’s highlights offers the perfect balance: iconic must-see sites like the Taj Mahal, Udaipur, and New Delhi itself (best explored by car or bus) combined with scenic bike rides through peaceful rural landscapes.

Pedal your way from the bird-rich Keoladeo National Park to the Krishna temples of Karauli, then pass through the historic architecture of Bundi before diving into the lush, wild countryside surrounding Bijaipur. India’s charming country roads provide a truly immersive, almost dreamlike experience, cycling here is the best way to soak up the vibrant and often eccentric rhythms of rural North Indian life.

2. Cambodia: Full circuit of Angkor

The ancient heart of Cambodian civilization, the ruined Kingdom of Angkor, is truly a sight to behold. Every year, millions of visitors come to explore its temples, most opting to tour the Small or Grand Circuit by tuk-tuk or taxi. But if you’re looking for one of the best cycling vacations, ditch the circuits, grab a map, and explore the temples on your own bike. With a two- or three-day pass to the entire Archaeological Park, you can set your own pace and create your own route.

Among the countless 8th to 14th-century ruins, world-famous masterpieces like Angkor Wat, the multi-faced Bayon, and the atmospheric Ta Prohm are must-sees, though they can get crowded. Take the time to discover lesser-known temples, and avoid peak hours like sunrise at Angkor Wat and sunset at Pre Rup for a more peaceful, breathtaking experience with fewer tourists. And don’t forget to hire a local guide, their expert navigation and historical insights will be invaluable on your cycling and temple-hopping adventure.

3. China: A tour of the Great Wall

Experience some of China’s most iconic spots at a relaxed pace with a combined hiking and cycling tour through Beijing and Guilin. Every day, thousands of locals navigate Beijing’s busy streets by bike, and if you’re confident on two wheels, you can join them for a truly authentic look at city life. From there, head north for a two-day hike along the most famous sections of the Great Wall, walking through centuries of history as the trail winds over lush, green hills. The cycling portion takes you to the breathtaking landscapes around Guilin, where you’ll cruise past dramatic karst cliffs and crystal-clear rivers connecting the charming rural towns of Daxu, Xingping, and Yangshuo.

4. Morocco: Exploring the High Atlas

The High Atlas Mountains, stretching across Morocco, are a magnet for serious cyclists eager to conquer their rugged, Jurassic terrain. But for those with more modest fitness levels, a combined seven-day tour of Morocco’s cultural highlights offers one of the best cycling vacations for a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Start by exploring vibrant Marrakech on foot, soak up the scents of spice markets and the energy of colorful street performances, before hopping on your bike at the stunning Lake Lalla Takerkoust.

Over the course of the week, you’ll pedal through the breathtaking landscapes of Toubkal National Park, tackle the legendary Tizi ’n’ Test pass in the High Atlas, and pause to take in spectacular views at traditional Berber villages along the way. After a thrilling descent through oak and juniper forests, unwind in the evenings with plush Moroccan cushions, refreshing mint tea, and delicious North African cuisine.

5. Japan: Biking the Noto Peninsula

Stretching 100 miles into the Sea of Japan, the Noto Peninsula in northern Ishikawa Prefecture is a pristine and stunning region offering thrilling coastal cycling and outstanding cuisine. With limited public transportation, biking is the perfect way to explore this peaceful rural peninsula dotted with fishing villages and farms. Along your route, you’ll pass enchanting temples and shrines while riding dramatic stretches of coastline, calm and lively on the side facing the mainland, wild and rugged along the ocean-facing shores. At times, you’ll cycle along hard-packed sandy beaches; at others, you’ll follow quiet backroads and trails. Rice terraces cling to the coastline, creating perfect spots for scenic photos, while rocky sections reveal small offshore islands to admire.

6. Colombia: Across its stunning landscapes

Discover the stunning rural countryside around Medellín on a cycling tour that includes the charming village of Guatapé and the iconic Piedra del Peñol. Ride through rolling green hills dotted with lakes, home to El Peñón de Guatapé, a massive monolithic rock towering 650 feet high. It’s a steady climb up 740 steps to the summit, but the breathtaking panoramic views are well worth the effort, don’t forget your camera!

Continuing on two wheels, you’ll arrive in Guatapé village, known for its brightly painted houses, distinctive church, and scenic lakefront promenade, where you can even take boat trips on the lake. Exploring Medellín by bike offers a unique and captivating way to experience the city, rounding out the cycling portion of your adventure. From Medellín, head north to embark on an incredible multi-day hike to the Lost City, considered one of South America’s most spectacular treks. Colombia is truly one of the best cycling vacation destinations, offering vibrant and colorful cycling experiences for riders of all levels.

7. Rwanda: A land of a thousand hills

Experience a unique blend of hiking, biking, and gorilla trekking on this unforgettable Rwandan adventure, offering a deep dive into the “Land of a Thousand Hills.” Our local partners are proud to showcase Rwanda’s success in sustainable tourism, including communities that once relied on poaching but now welcome visitors to share the secrets of their rural way of life.

Rwanda is not only home to some of the most incredible cycling routes in the world but also ranks among the best cycling vacations for those seeking customizable hiking trips suited for all fitness levels. Alongside the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to trek with gorillas in the stunning Virunga Mountains, you can explore the Congo Nile Trail, a scenic 200-kilometer route along the shores of Lake Kivu. Whether you choose to hike the trail over 10 days or bike it in half the time, you’ll enjoy charming lakeside village life and breathtaking landscapes every step of the way.

8. Panama: From city streets to jungle trails

Panama is another fantastic destination for biking enthusiasts, offering a diverse adventure for all kinds of riders. It’s quickly becoming one of the best cycling vacations for those looking to combine scenic routes with rich culture. Cruise along the scenic coastal Cinta Costera all the way to the historic heart of Panama City’s old quarter. Then, take on the old Plantation Road leading into the lush Soberanía National Park, where birdwatchers will be thrilled by species like ray-headed tanagers, spotted and ocellated antbirds, golden-crowned spadebills, white-breasted wood-wrens, and northern barred and ruddy woodcreepers.

Your biking tour also includes a ride to Howard, a former U.S. military airbase situated just 500 meters from the Pacific coast at the entrance to the Panama Canal, which officially became Panamanian territory in 1999. Another unforgettable stop is El Valle, reached by crossing the iconic Bridge of the Americas over the Panama Canal, a must-see landmark that perfectly blends history and stunning views.

Make it happen

These incredible cycle trips around the world are among the best cycling vacations available, and they can all be tailored to suit different fitness levels and riding speeds. Whether you’re a leisurely rider or a more experienced cyclist, if you’re ready to hop on a bike and explore one of these amazing destinations at your own perfect pace, get in touch with our local tour operators to start planning your ideal cycling adventure.