Holidays
Bangkok to Phuket Road Cycling Tour

6 reviews

Ke Classic

Holidays

Bangkok to Phuket Road Cycling Tour

Thailand

6 reviews

Available Departures: Jan, Feb, Mar, Jun, Jul, Aug, Oct, Nov, Dec

11 days from

US$3,400

without flights

View Dates & Prices

Cycle

Guided Group

MODERATE

Tropical road cycling holiday in Thailand on the Thai-Malay Peninsula

Trip Code: BPMB

Our Holiday Grades Explained

To show the relative difficulty of our holidays, each trip is graded on a scale of 1 to 12, with 12 being the most challenging. Although we have tried to make our grading system as clear as possible, it cannot take into account your personal interests, abilities or experience. If you have any questions about the nature of a particular trip or its suitability for you, please read the 'Is this holiday for you?' section or contact us.

1 - 3 LEISURELY

Suitable for most people in good health, holidays at this grade include only limited amounts of activity.

For occasional bike riders; these holidays are predominantly on paved roads and involve only gentle climbs. You can go at your own pace and there’s plenty of time off the bike, to explore and to take it easy. These leisurely journeys are normally on hybrid or electric bikes. Daily distances are usually between 25 and 50 kilometres.

View leisurely holidays

4 - 6 MODERATE

Suitable for reasonably fit individuals, such as regular walkers and cyclists. There can be the occasional more difficult day.

These are holidays for weekend cyclists looking for a fun challenge. Mostly on paved roads, forest tracks and gravel paths, daily distances can be as much as 60 kilometres a day on an adventure cycling holiday and as much as 80 kilometres a day on a road cycling tour. Expect to encounter undulating terrain and the odd, longer, steeper climb.

View moderate holidays

7 - 9 CHALLENGING

Physically challenging holidays, where you need to be prepared before you go.

These holidays will provide a challenge for regular weekend cyclists. Adventure cycling holidays on mountain bikes at this level, can include anything from forest track riding, to technically challenging singletrack ascents and descents. These tours can be in isolated areas and/or at altitude, whilst Road Cycling tours in these grades will involve long (up to 100 kilometre) days and potentially very hilly terrain. A good level of fitness and regular training, including a couple of long days in the saddle each month, is standard for these trips.

View challenging holidays

10 - 12 TOUGH

Our toughest holidays, involving many long days, often in isolated areas. A high level of fitness and previous wilderness and mountain experience is essential.

We recommend these epic rides for experienced cyclists only, who relish the challenge of long, consecutive and potentially very hilly days on the bike. Adventure Cycling tours will be ‘out-there’ and sustained, whilst Road Cycling holidays in these grades can have continuous steep stages (up to 100 kilometres and 3000 metres of ascent) with some long and serious descents which require care. Demanding a high level of endurance, these holidays are aimed at regular sportive / club riders.

View Tough holidays

All Grade Information

Section:

Bangkok to Phuket Road Cycling Tour

Name: Bangkok to Phuket Road Cycling Tour
Brand: KE Adventure Travel
Rating: 4.5 (6 reviews)

Highlights

Nine days of cycling, averaging 94 kilometres per day
Mix of comfortable accommodation, mostly at pleasant beach resorts
Cycle amongst the limestone peaks of Sam Roi Yot National Park
Two shorter days mid-route with free afternoons at Baan Grood and Laem Sai
Cycling beside the Andaman Sea to Nai Yang Beach on Phuket

At a Glance

Group Size 4 to 16
9 days biking
849 kilometres
100% road - 100% vehicle supported
Join In Bangkok / Phuket

Accommodation & Meals

10 Breakfasts
9 Lunches
6 Dinners
2 nights Hotel
8 nights Hotel with swimming pool

Overview

South of the capital, Bangkok, Thailand extends for hundreds of kilometres along the Thai-Malay Peninsula, with the Gulf of Thailand to the east and the Andaman Sea to the west. Entirely within the tropics, this is a fantastically scenic part of the world, with a mix of coastal and limestone mountain landscapes. Covering a total distance of around 849 kilometres and crossing from the east side to the west side of the peninsula, this classic road tour traverses traditional rural areas, with many quaint little villages, colourful Buddhist temples and several attractive national park areas.

This is Thailand’s most popular road cycling journey, and for good reason! There’s nothing quite like gliding along excellently paved roads that snake past tropical shorelines, savouring delicious Thai cuisine, and enjoying the world-renowned hospitality of the Land of Smiles. From the coconut groves and sandy beaches along the Gulf of Thailand, through the ancient rainforest of Khao Sok National Park, and on to the Andaman Coast, road bike touring in Thailand simply doesn’t get better than this. On many nights, we stop off in laid back coastal resorts, where we can walk on the endless beaches and try the delicious local seafood. Well away from the main tourist areas, the roads are generally well maintained and tend to be flat and fast with some undulating hills thrown into the mix towards the end of the trip. Apart from the transfers on the first and last days the ride is now continuous, each day cycling door-to-door. This is your chance to get to know the locals, wiggle your toes in Thailand's warm sand and absorb a slower pace of life. With our final stop off at the paradise island of Phuket, there is nothing to prevent you extending your holiday to spend a few extra days in the sun.

Is this holiday for you?

ROAD CYCLING. Starting out in Phetchaburi, after a morning's transfer from Bangkok, the total distance of this tour is 849 kilometres which we complete in 9 days of cycling. There are some quite long days, set either side of a couple of shorter days which allow afternoons at leisure on the beach. Generally, the cycling terrain is not hilly and the daily distances will be readily achievable by regular and experienced weekend road cyclists. Furthermore, the trip is fully vehicle supported and your guide's expert knowledge of the area means that you always know what is coming up in terms of distance and difficulty. This makes a tremendous difference, as does the constant supply of cold drinks, ice and fresh fruit. The first five days on the east coast takes us along mostly well-paved secondary roads that hug the coast or pass through agricultural areas, including coconut groves and rubber and oil palm plantations. Occasionally, we also encounter narrow country lanes where potholes, road debris, and patches of gravel can be common. There are a few sections on busier roads (usually with a wide shoulder to ride on), especially near towns and popular attractions. Crossing to the west coast and on the final day's ride to Phuket there are some modest hills and undulations to overcome. BIKE HIRE AVAILABLE LOCALLY.

Why KE?

Looking for somewhere new?

No other UK operator offers a road cycling holiday in Thailand, with its palm-fringed roads, superb cuisine, beach-side accommodation and refreshing end-of-day swimming potential.

Itinerary

Download Trip Notes

Day 1

Meet at the group hotel in Bangkok.

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Your holiday starts at the hotel in Bangkok. Airport transfers are not provided - there is a safe and reliable taxi service from Bangkok Airport. The remainder of the day is free to explore at your choice. Bangkok is city of contradictions as a modern world sits on the shoulders of ancient culture. In Bangkok you are never too far from an eatery and the fresh spice of Thai food is something to be sampled. If you take your own bike, please assemble it today, ready to be loaded onto the transport in the morning. Check at reception for an updated meeting time with you guide, which will usually be between 7 and 8 am in the morning. If you have hired a bike, your guide will have it.

Accommodation

Hotel

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Day 2

Transfer to Phetchaburi. Ride through rural Thailand to a seaside resort near Pranburi Beach.

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After picking you up from your Bangkok hotel, we'll drive approximately 3.5 hours to our cycling start point in Phetchaburi Province. There, in a picturesque rural area framed by the low-lying mountains that form the border with Myanmar to the west, we'll get our bikes ready and saddle up. The tour's warm-up ride takes us on minor roads through a landscape of gently rolling hills, fields of rice, sugarcane and pineapples, as well as a few scenic reservoirs. By around 58 km we reach Pranburi Beach and complete our ride with views over the Gulf of Thailand as we roll into our elegant seaside resort for the first night of the tour. In the evening we get together for a welcome dinner.

Accommodation

Hotel with swimming pool

Meals

B L D

Ascent

207 M

Descent

294 M

Time

3 hrs cycling

Distance

58 KM

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Day 3

Cycle along the Pranburi coast and through the Sam Roi Yot National Park to Klong Wan.

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Our day begins with a 20 km ride along the Pranburi coast, warming up our legs to a backdrop of Pacific waves, palm-fringed shores and fishing boats bobbing in the bay. We then turn inland towards the area of Sam Roi Yot, or in English "Three Hundred Peaks" a fitting name for this picturesque landscape of craggy, limestone massifs jutting out of the coastal plains. The views are lovely as we ride on quiet roads with the peaks surrounding an expansive patchwork of shrimp farms, with their distinct rectangular pools lining our path. By the 45 km point we are back on the coast for the remainder of the ride. Part of the way takes us along a secondary road that runs parallel to the historic railroad connecting Bangkok to the southern provinces. Finally, we are greeted by the stunningly blue waters of the twin bays of Prachuap Khiri Khan, which we skirt along to reach today's hotel in the small, seaside town of Klong Wan.

Accommodation

Hotel with swimming pool

Meals

B L D

Ascent

352 M

Descent

355 M

Time

5 hrs cycling

Distance

91 KM

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Day 4

Cycle amongst coconut plantations to the golden sands of Baan Grood. Afternoon at leisure.

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A shorter stage today with the aim of arriving at the tour's next beach resort in time for lunch and a relaxing afternoon. We begin by making our way out of Klong Wan via the coast and inland side roads through coconut plantations which, from here on, become noticeably more prominent! We then have an unavoidable 10 km along the main road with a wide shoulder before again dipping onto quiet back roads that press up against the coastline. At the 45 km point we stop at an organic coconut farm to learn about the process of growing and harvesting this energy-rich fruit so central to the lifeways of coastal Thailand. And, of course, trying some! We then complete the distance to our lovely seaside resort on Baan Grood Beach, a quiet stretch of golden sands where we spend the rest of the afternoon. Dinner is on your own tonight, giving you the choice to eat at the resort or head to a local seafood restaurant nearby.

Accommodation

Hotel with swimming pool

Meals

B L

Ascent

413 M

Descent

411 M

Time

3 - 4 hrs cycling

Distance

65 KM

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Day 5

Traversing Thailand's narrowest geographic point, today's coastal cycling through palm groves takes us to Saphli.

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Thailand is at its narrowest here, with the Myanmar border never far away to the west. We start by riding along Baan Grood's quiet, palm-fringed beach road and through some countryside lanes before switching to a wider road that takes us through the lush estuaries of coastal Thailand. By around 70 km, the road begins to narrow, leading us into a seemingly endless world of coconut and palm oil plantations. We then pick up the pace as we ride on a bike lane alongside the main road. After about 95 km, we reach Ao Bo Mao Bay, where we'll break for lunch at a beachside restaurant. We'll then cross a bridge with scenic views of fishing boats before completing the final stretch to the beaches of Saphli in Chumphon Province, where we'll spend the night. How about treating yourself to a fresh coconut or an ice-cold beer (or both!) to celebrate cracking the tour's first century ride?

Accommodation

Hotel with swimming pool

Meals

B L

Ascent

835 M

Descent

835 M

Time

6 - 7 hrs cycling

Distance

117 KM

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Day 6

Coastal and inland cycling through Chumpon Province. Overnight on the plains of the Lang Suan River.

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Today features a long and glorious ride through the lush backwaters of Chumphon Province. The first 20 km continues along the coast where we cross several scenic bridges arching over estuaries and cycle past Pak Hat Beach, infamous as the landing place of the Japanese army during World War Two. We then veer inland, entering an agrarian hinterland dominated by coconut, oil palm, and rubber plantations as well as orchards filled with exotic fruits like rambutan, durian, and mangosteen. We take a steady pace and primarily on minor roads. This gives us a feel for local lifeways which in Chumphon - known as the "Gateway to the South" - starts to take on a distinctively southern Thai charm! In addition to Buddhist temples, you may also notice an increasing number of Muslim mosques and locals wearing hijabs or kufis, a reflection of the Thai peninsula's cultural and religious plurality. Today's destination is a Thai-style upcountry retreat nestled amidst gardens on the plains of the Lang Suan River.

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

B L D

Ascent

686 M

Descent

676 M

Time

6 - 7 hrs cycling

Distance

114 KM

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Day 7

A shorter day on quiet coastal roads, far off the tourist trail, to Laem Sai Beach.

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We rejoin the coast via some lovely back roads for around 13 km. We are then greeted once again by the Gulf of Thailand and cycle past maritime scenes of local boats and fishing contraptions dotted along the shore. A few kilometres of roads lined with palm trees and shrubs then bring us to Lamae Beach where, at around 30 km, we stop for a break. Heading back inland, we follow a straight and flat stretch of asphalt - settle into your preferred cadence and enjoy at your own pace! In the distance, towering limestone formations begin to appear above the plains and, by around 60 km, we are pressed right up against these jungle-clad massifs. After a dash through palm oil plantations we gradually return to the ocean, dismounting at Laem Sai Beach. Aiming to arrive in time for lunch, you have the afternoon free to relax in this peaceful part of coastal Thailand far off the tourist trail.

Accommodation

Hotel with swimming pool

Meals

B L D

Ascent

360 M

Descent

373 M

Time

4 hrs cycling

Distance

84 KM

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Day 8

Cycle inland across the peninsula on jungle fringed roads towards Khao Sok National Park.

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Leaving the white sands behind we cycle westwards into the dense green jungle and after 20 km on quiet side roads reach one of the south's oldest Buddhist temples, dating back more than a millennium to a time when the Srivijaya kingdom ruled this region. From here, we skirt around the edges of Surat Thani, the bustling provincial capital of southern Thailand's largest province, where traffic tends to get busier. By 60 km we are back on minor roads for a long stretch through a rural landscape of rubber and palm oil plantations - the backbone of the region's agriculture. We stop for a break at an intriguing cave temple at around 80 km before settling in for the final stage towards the edge of Khao Sok National Park. As we roll into the day's hotel, rugged, rainforest-covered mountains loom in the background. We are just a short drive away from Cheow Lan Lake, a massive man-made reservoir with karsts rising out of the emerald green waters.

Accommodation

Hotel with swimming pool

Meals

B L D

Ascent

687 M

Descent

629 M

Time

6 hrs cycling

Distance

110 KM

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Day 9

Cycle in sight of the limestone peaks of Khao Sok and down to the Andaman coast.

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The day starts on a beautiful road straddling the south of Khao Sok National Park. Surrounded by lush foliage and epic karst formations, we get a feel for Southern Thailand's largest native forest. For the first 55 km the road undulates gently, with a few punchy climbs, crowned by a more challenging 5 km ascent. The subsequent thrilling downhill brings us into the coastal plains of peninsular Thailand's Andaman coast. At around 90 km, we reach the historic town of Takua Pa, where we explore its rich past as a prosperous hub of the lucrative tin mining industry in the 19th and early 20th centuries - a legacy preserved in the Chino-Portuguese merchant houses that still stand today. We enjoy a leisurely cycle through town and have lunch before taking back roads that meander through small villages and shady rubber plantations. Our ride concludes at the sun-kissed sands of Khao Lak facing the Andaman Sea. The afternoon is free to unwind at this elegant seaside resort.

Accommodation

Hotel with swimming pool

Meals

B L D

Ascent

1007 M

Descent

1160 M

Time

7 - 8 hrs cycling

Distance

119 KM

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Day 10

A coastal ride over headlands and across Sarasin Bridge to the island of Phuket.

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From Khao Lak, we ride along the main road, stopping after about 11 km at the International Tsunami Museum to learn about the devastating impact of the tsunami that struck the region in 2004. Continuing, we tackle a scenic climb over a headland and by the 30 km point we switch to a quiet secondary road through the hilly countryside of Phang Nga Province. At around 60 km, we branch off onto side roads leading to the coast, passing through charming fishing communities and lagoons. And finally, we ride along Natai Beach before making the iconic crossing over the Sarasin Bridge, which connects the mainland to Phuket. Having officially reached Phuket, this marks our cycling end point and we skip the island's notoriously busy traffic with a 30-45 minute transfer to our final seaside hotel of the tour beside Nai Yang Beach. The afternoon is free to relax and we reconvene in the evening for a celebration of our epic road cycling journey from Bangkok to Phuket!

Accommodation

Hotel with swimming pool

Meals

B L

Ascent

712 M

Descent

719 M

Time

5 hrs cycling

Distance

91 KM

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Day 11

Your holiday ends after breakfast. Take a taxi to Phuket Airport for departure.

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Your holiday ends after breakfast. Depending on your flight time, you should have some free time to chill out or to explore. Nai Yang Beach is one of the finest on Phuket and the resort itself is not large, although there are some up-market hotels and resorts dotted along this section of the coast. There are lots of good bars and restaurants as well as the usual beach hawkers and trinket sellers. Airport transfers are not provided - there is a safe and reliable taxi service to Phuket Airport. The hotel reception will call a taxi for you. The journey time is around 25 minutes.

Meals

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The Route

Airport

Point

Direction

Transfer

Cycle

Essential Information

We've compiled some of our Frequently Asked Questions to help you learn more about this amazing trip.

Holiday

General

Equipment

What's Included

An experienced local English-speaking cycling guide
Support vehicle and driver
All accommodation as described
Meals as per the Meal Plan
All activities as described

What's not Included

Travel insurance
Visa (if applicable)
Bangkok and Phuket airport transfers
Tips for local crew and drivers
Some meals as per the Meal Plan
Miscellaneous expenses - drinks and souvenirs etc
Bike Carriage on the flights - please check with your carrier for charges

Joining Arrangements & Transfers

The group will meet at the hotel in Bangkok. Airport transfers on arrival and departure are not provided, because there are reliable taxi services both in Bangkok and in Phuket which provide the most cost-effective way of getting from the airport to the group hotel and vice versa.

Clients booking a Land Only Package MUST provide the KE office with full details of their flights.

Hotel contact details and an emergency number will be provided with your booking confirmation.

Meal Plan

All meals are included in the trip cost, with the exception of lunches and dinners on the days of arrival and departure and dinners on days 4 and 5 at Baan Grood and at Saphli.

Special Diets

Whilst we can cater for vegetarians, albeit sometimes with a more limited choice, we cannot always provide for special diets. Due to the nature of some of the trips that we operate and the countries in which we operate them, it can be very hard (and sometimes impossible) to cater for a wide range of dietary choices and you may have to supplement your meals with food/snacks from home. If you have specific dietary requirements please do speak to our sales team and they will be able to advise you whether or not we will be able to offer your specific choice. Please note that we are unable to provide separate menus and cannot accept liability for any problems arising from special dietary requirements or intolerances.

Food & Water

It is not recommended to drink untreated water from the taps. You should take purification tablets or a filter bottle (such as a Water-To-Go bottle) to treat your water. We do not encourage the purchasing of single use plastic bottles.

In Thailand eating is an essential part of the experience. Fragrant and spicy, Thai food is justifiably famous and some would say the best cuisine in the world. Though some dishes are very spicy (such as the fiery and quintessentially Thai, Tom Yam soup) it is a mistake to think that all Thai food is hot, and there is a tremendous subtlety of flavours. Your guide will give you hints and tips on how to discover what suits you best from a typical Thai menu. As we travel south from Bangkok to Phuket we will try lots of restaurants and cafes and some of them will serve international dishes as well as typically Thai meals. Of course, we are never far from the sea on this trip and we will have the chance to sample some of the best seafood in the world.

Accommodation

During this holiday you will spend the first night at a tourist class hotel in Bangkok. Outside of the capital, in places with a well-developed tourism infrastructure such as Pranburi, Khao Lak, and Phuket, we stay in deluxe, character-rich hotels at the 4-star level. You can expect elevated comfort, professional staff, swimming pools, bars, spas (either at the hotel or nearby), and breakfast spreads worth waking up early for. Other hotels, while still more than adequate for hard-working cyclists, are geared more towards domestic Thai rather than international tourists, meaning that English-speaking staff or Western breakfast options won’t always be available. Many of the hotels on this tour are directly on or near a beach, which is always a highlight! All accommodation is allocated on a twin-sharing basis. If you are travelling by yourself you will be paired up with another single client of the same sex. Single room occupancy can be arranged at additional cost.

Group Leader & Support Staff

The group will be accompanied throughout by a professional English-speaking local biking leader. Groups of 9 persons or more will have a second biking leader.

Altitude

This holiday does not involve any significant ascent to altitude and we would not expect any altitude issues with this trip.

Spending Money

A total of about $250 (or equivalent in sterling or euros) should be allowed for miscellaneous expenses which should also cover non-included meals. This amount should also cover the $45 - 50 you can be expected to pay for tips to local staff. If you are intending to buy expensive souvenirs, you should budget accordingly (credit cards can be useful in this respect). Also, if you expect to buy considerable quantities of soft drinks or beer, you should make an allowance for this. The Thai unit of currency is the Baht. It is not necessary to obtain Thai Baht prior to departure, as changing money is easy. Sterling, US dollars and euros can readily be changed in Thailand. We recommend that you carry your travel money in the form of cash rather than travellers cheques, since you will exchange the majority of this on the day of your arrival in Bangkok. There will be opportunities to withdraw cash from ATM's using credit or debit cards at Bangkok Airport, in Bangkok and at one or two of the larger towns that we visit on the journey south.

Guidance on Tipping

Tipping is not commonly practiced in Thailand, except perhaps to leave loose change from a restaurant bill or round up a taxi fare. In some restaurants a 10% service charge will be added to your bill, and in this case a tip is not necessary. We do recommend you tip your driver(s) and local guides, depending on the service they provide. One way to do this is to co-ordinate this tip as a group, with each member contributing around $45 - $50 (in Thai Baht) to a group pool.

Your Bike

We recommend that your bike is fitted with suitably low gearing and suggest that you fit reasonably high volume tyres (28mm for instance) which will provide a bit more comfort on the variable road surfaces typically found on our Road Cycling holidays.

Since you are depending on your bike to transport you throughout your holiday, it’s important to ensure it is in good working order. If you are not mechanically minded, get your local bicycle dealer to service it for you.

Please contact us if you are unsure about the suitability of your bike.

Bike Hire

Bike hire is available locally on this holiday. Our local agent has new Trek Domane AL5 GEN 4 road bikes for hire in a range of sizes from 49cm to 61cm. They have Shimano 105 compact (50/34) cranksets, 12-speed cassettes (11/34), alloy frames, carbon forks and Shimano 105 hydraulic disc brakes. Hire cost for this bike is US$300. Prices subject to change. Also available are new Trek Domane SL5 GEN 4 bikes in a range of sizes from 50cm to 60cm. They have Shimano 105 compact (50/34) cranksets, 12-speed cassettes (11/34), carbon frames and forks and Shimano 105 hydraulic disc brakes. Hire cost for this bike is US$450. Prices subject to change. Also available are new Trek Domane SL6 GEN 4 (D12) bikes in a range of sizes from 47cm to 62cm. They have Shimano 105 compact (50/34) cranksets, 12-speed cassettes (11/34), carbon frames and forks and Shimano 105 hydraulic disc brakes. Hire cost for this bike is US$600. Prices subject to change.

Spare parts (tubes, tyre, chains etc.) are included in the price of the bike rental and will be available in the support vehicle along with a tool kit and track pump. Each bike comes with a single bottle cage and a Spice Roads water bottle that is yours to keep. If you want to bring a second bottle cage, we can fit it. The bikes are equipped with flat pedals and strap-style toe cages can be supplied if requested. If you prefer to use spd or clip-in pedals, you will need to bring these with you, along with your regular cycling shoes and cleats. Another item which you might choose to take with you on the holiday is your saddle. The hire bikes have standard saddles and anyone requiring more comfort, or a women-specific saddle, should consider taking their own. You should take your own EN1078 compliant cycling helmet, as the locally available helmets do not necessarily meet this standard - which we require.

If you want to hire a bike, please contact the KE office and we will pass on your request to the local agent. Payment must be made before travel and should be made directly with the local agent via the following payment link www.spiceroads.com/pay. You must first notify KE of your preferred bike option along with your height and we will make the reservation on your behalf. Once the reservation is confirmed, we will email to you a unique reference code which you need to use when making your payment. Your payment for bike hire does not cover you if you lose the bike or damage it beyond 'fair wear and tear'. We must stress that your hire contract will be with the local hire company and that KE cannot be held responsible for any issues arising from bike hire.

Travelling With Your Bike

Airlines require that you pack your bike properly for travel and for this holiday we recommend that you use a purpose-made soft bike bag. These can be relatively inexpensive. They are also light in weight, easy to handle and, most importantly, can be packed into a small space to allow easy transportation in the support vehicle. You will need to partially dismantle your bike to pack it in your bag.

PLEASE DO NOT USE a purpose-made rigid bike box for this holiday. We do not have the space in the support vehicle to transport these bulky items.

Please contact us if you have any questions regarding travelling with your bike.

Vehicle Support

Throughout this trip we have the back up of one or more support vehicles. Each morning our main baggage will be loaded onto the support vehicle which will follow the group on the day's ride. The local biking leader and the support vehicle driver will watch over the group and will carry mobile phones, allowing you to contact them in the case of a breakdown or other incident. We want everyone to enjoy their cycling experience on this trip and we recognise the importance of group members being allowed to cycle at their own pace. On most of our road biking trips it is usual that there can be a fair distance between the front and rear cyclists in the group and there may be times when other group members, vehicle support and biking leader are out of sight. However, our regular stops mean that it's never long before we regroup. The support vehicle will pick up any group members who wish to take a break from cycling at any time.

Baggage Allowance

Apart from your bike in its bag (if you are taking your own bike), you should travel with one main item of luggage, such as a KE Trek Bag or similar holdall, and a small day pack. The day pack can be used to carry valuable items such as cameras and GPS devices whilst travelling, but will also be useful to separate out items you might want to pick up from the support vehicle during the rides, like additional clothing.

Your baggage allowance on the flights will depend on your airline. When choosing your flights, whether booking them directly or through KE, you will need to consider the cost of carrying your bike. These costs are your responsibility.

Group Size & Holiday Status

For each holiday there is a minimum number of participants required to enable it to go ahead. Once the minimum number is reached, the trip status will change from 'Available' to 'Guaranteed to run'. You can check the trip status for each departure in the ‘Dates and Prices’ table. Other than in exceptional circumstances, we will not cancel a trip once it has achieved this guaranteed to run status so you are free to proceed with your international flight booking and other travel arrangements.

Passport & Visas

The information that we provide is for UK passport holders.

A passport with 6 months remaining validity at the end of your stay is generally required, and you should have at least 2 blank pages for each country that you visit.

For other nationalities, please refer to your own Government website for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the correct travel documents including vaccinations and health certificates (see Health & Vaccinations below), and visas for your holiday. Please ensure that you check the FCDO for the latest advice for each country visited before travel.

Visa Thailand

UK and USA passport holders do not require a visa for short stays.

From 1st May 2025, all foreign travellers entering Thailand by air, land or sea must submit a Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online prior to arrival, which replaces the paper arrival card.

Travellers must complete the TDAC within the 3 days prior to arrival in Thailand. To complete the TDAC, go to the official website: https://tdac.immigration.go.th

A guide on how to complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card can be found here: https://tdac.immigration.go.th/manual/en/index.html

Health & Vaccinations

Vaccinations:

You should be up to date with the routine vaccinations recommended in the UK for overseas travel.

You must also contact your doctor or travel clinic to check if there are specific vaccinations or other preventive measures that you need for the area you are visiting, in good time before you are due to depart.

On holidays to more remote areas you should also have a dental check-up.

It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the correct travel documents including vaccinations and health certificates.

Please check the FCDO and Travel Health Pro. For all of your intended destinations for up-to-date advice.

Severe Allergies:

If you have a severe allergy please inform the KE office before you travel. We will do all we can to help, but we cannot guarantee an allergy free environment on KE trips.

Currency

The unit of currency in Thailand is the Thai Baht.

Preparing for your Holiday

The better conditioned you are the more you will enjoy your trip. We suggest that you adopt a sensible weekly exercise regime and fit in a number of long cycle rides in hilly country to ensure you are physically capable of taking part in this trip - this will also provide you with an opportunity to make sure all your riding kit is tried and tested before you travel. Cycling is obviously the best activity to prepare for this trip, however, running and swimming are also good for developing aerobic fitness and stamina.

Climate

There are 3 main seasons in southern Thailand, which is a tropical region with relatively high humidity. From October to February it is relatively cool and dry, with temperatures between and 20 and 30 degrees C. From March to June it is hot and dry with temperatures between 27 and 35 degrees C. The rainy season coincides with the monsoon and lasts from June to October. From November to March is the best time for cycling.

Travel Aware

As a reputable tour operator, KE supports the British Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office's ‘Travel Aware’ campaign to enable British citizens to prepare for their journeys overseas. The 'Travel Aware' website provides a single, authoritative source of advice for all kinds of travellers and we recommend that before travel, all KE clients visit the official UK Government website at travelaware.campaign.gov.uk and read the FCDO Travel Advice for their chosen destination. North Americans can also check out the U.S. Department of State website: www.travel.state.gov for essential travel advice and tips.

KE treat the safety and security of all clients as the most important aspect of any trip we organise. We would not run any trip that we did not consider reasonably safe. Should the FCDO advise against travel for any reason, we will contact everyone booked to travel to discuss the situation. We receive regular updates directly from the FCDO and are in constant touch with our contacts on the ground. If you have any questions about government travel advice, please call our office.

Single Use Plastic

KE do not encourage the use of single use plastic items. We are ensuring that our agents all over the world are working together to reduce the problem and educate those around them. We are leading by example in our KE office by reducing our plastic use.

Books

Thailand. Lonely Planet. Joe Cummings
Thailand. Rough Guide
Thailand. Insight Guide

Maps

Thailand: Nelles Verlag Publishing. 1:1,500,000

A double-sided map and. as with most Nelles maps, the general relief is depicted by attractive hill shading, complemented with spot heights. Street plans are also included for central Bangkok.

Private Groups Information

Make this KE cycling holiday your own!

Do our normal group departure dates not fit?
Are you wanting to travel with just your friends or family?
Are you looking to organise a trip for your local cycling club?

We are experts in creating holidays for groups of friends, families, charities, and cycling clubs. Our personal service means you’ll be fully involved as we make the arrangements for your perfect adventure holiday.

Independence with Security

Travelling as a KE Private Group allows you more flexibility and choice, but still with the peace of mind that everything is pre-planned and arranged for your group by a reputable adventure travel company.

To take your first step to an amazing adventure with your friends and family complete the private group enquiry form, or call our Sales Experts on: 017687 73966

Travel Insurance

It is an essential condition of joining a holiday with KE Adventure Travel that you have a valid travel insurance policy to cover the cost of medical treatment and to protect the value of your holiday in the event of cancellation. When taking out insurance please ensure the policy you choose covers you for the activities and altitude included in your itinerary.

For appropriate insurance cover we recommend Campbell Irvine Direct. Please go to our Travel Insurance page for further information and to get a quote.

Explore International

This holiday is part of our Explore International range. Participants on these trips can book through KE or through one of our international partners. This helps us to gather together sufficient numbers of like-minded adventurers to get your holiday up and running quickly. Led by an English-speaking guide, the cosmopolitan nature of these groups can be an important part of the experience!

Equipment List

For this holiday you will need your usual cycling clothing, including shoes, cycling gloves and helmet (which must be worn at all times when cycling).

Whether you are hiring a bike or taking your own, we recommend that you take the usual day-ride essentials of: mobile phone, multi-tool, mini-pump, tyre levers, spare tubes and puncture repair kit.

Bike Wear

Cycling helmet (the EN1078 safety standard is a requirement)
Cycling shoes
Padded cycling shorts
Long leg cycling trousers or leg warmers
Lycra arm warmers
Short sleeve cycling tops
Long sleeved cycling top
Lightweight windproof gilet
Lightweight waterproof jacket
Regular biking gloves
Long fingered biking gloves
Buff
Sunglasses
Sun cream (inc. total bloc for lips/nose)
Camera

Other Stuff

Travel and off-the-bike clothing and footwear
Loose-fitting trousers and shirt to cover up when visiting villages and temples en route
Wash bag and toiletries
Swimwear
Basic First Aid kit and personal medication
Insect repellant
Chamois Cream (e.g. Assos or Ozone)
Water purification tablets
Reusable cloth bag for shopping (to avoid plastic bags)

Spares

If you are hiring a bike you do not need to bring any spares. The hire bikes are provided in good condition and a supply of spares is carried. You may be asked to pay directly for any spares used, especially in the case of crash damage or damage by mis-use.

If you are taking your own bike, you should consider taking a minimum of spares, including a couple of spare spokes (for each wheel if they are different), spare brake blocks (or brake disc pads), chain links/chain connector, rear derailleur hanger and any non-standard parts specific to your bike.

Repairs

Whilst not essential, it is a good idea that you familiarise yourself with how to carry out at least some basic repairs to your bike e.g. changing an inner tube and fixing a puncture. Your bike guide will be happy to help with repairs and general maintenance, but being able to carry out a simple repair yourself could save the inconvenience of having to wait for assistance.

Hydration and Energy Snacks
A water bottle is provided and you can consider taking a second (we encourage re-filling water bottles rather than single use plastic). You should also consider taking a small supply of the gels, power bars or sports drink mix that you would normally use on a ride at home.

Please contact us if you have any questions about your equipment.

Extensions

Highlights of Angkor Extension

4 Days

Extension Code: ANGK

Angkor, in northern Cambodia, is one of the most important archaeological sites in South-east Asia. Stretching over some 400 square km, the park contains the magnificent remains of several capitals of the Khmer Empire from the 9th to the 15th centuries, including the largest pre-industrial city in the world. The most famous are the Temple of Angkor Wat and, at Angkor Thom, the Bayon Temple with its countless sculptural decorations.

Sharing Price from

US$585

Single Traveller Price from

US$920

Single Room Supplement from

US$190

Extension Itinerary

Day 1

Show Details

Your guide will meet you at Siem Reap airport and escort you to the hotel. In the evening we will head out to enjoy a typical Khmer dinner and Apsara dance show. Overnight in Siem Reap. KE services begin with the transfer to the hotel.

Meals

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Day 2

Show Details

After breakfast, we will visit Angkor Thom, designed by Jayavarman VII, the last king of Angkor. Within the central Angkor Thom citadel we will find the famous Bayon & the Elephant Terrace. Next we visit Preah Khan, Takeo, Banteay Kdei and Ta Phrom, the jungle temple. In the afternoon we'll visit the iconic Angkor Wat. In the late afternoon we climb to Pre Rub temple to enjoy the sunset.

Meals

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Day 3

Show Details

Today we will drive to the outer-lying temples starting with Banteay Srei, a Hindu temple built in the 10th Century and renowned for it's intricate carvings and bas-relief. On the way back, we'll stop to visit the Cambodian landmine museum to learn about the civil war. In the afternoon we enjoy a boat trip on Lake Tonle Sap - a chance to see modern Khmer life. Overnight in Siem Reap.

Meals

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Day 4

Show Details

A free day to explore the fascinating street life in downtown Siem Reap before transferring to the airport. KE services end with the transfer to the airport.

Meals

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Whats Included

All land transport required by the itinerary
Professional and qualified tour leader
Sightseeing as per the itinerary
3 nights accommodation in a 3* hotel
Entrance fee to the Angkor site
Meals as described
Boat trip on Lake Tonle Sap
Entrance to the landmine museum

What's Not Included

Flights/travel to/from Siem Reap
Tips for local staff
Meals as described
Miscellaneous personal expenses: drinks and souvenirs etc

Reviews

4.5 out of 5 from 6 reviews

A good escape from a British Winter ★★★★

This was a well-organised trip along mostly smooth roads, stopping at many good hotels and eating good local food. The trip operates as a hotel to hotel cycling route with only one short transfer by bus (out of central Bangkok). Although this is satisfying as a journey, it does mean cycling along some surprisingly busy roads: even for a time along the hard shoulder of a major dual-carriageway.

By Robert from Surrey | 20 February 2026

Very professional guides and wonderful local fresh food ★★★★

By Sue from Shropshire | 05 February 2026

Well organised trip ★★★★

A bit hard core cycling for me but I enjoyed it. The back up crew and guides were excellent.

By Jim from Hebden Bridge | 02 December 2025

A Great Way to See Thailand ★★★★★

I'd booked this trip 3 and a half years before I actually went on it due to Covid delays. Anyway 2022 was the year of success and I finally managed to go and it was certainly worth waiting for. The 800km cycle goes down the length of the Thailand Peninsula, crossing over from east to west half way along, the west coast section is far more attractive, hilly and interesting. The cycling is relatively flat though there are a few short climbs. It is on a mixture of small county lanes, along the ... side of beaches, through coconut plantations and quite a bit (more than I expected) on main roads. I was surprised how much was on main roads, however the road surfaces were excellent and drivers were all incredibly considerate, so it wasn't a problem. It also gave us the chance to view Thai life at closer quarters. The tour leaders and the support team were all brilliant and very knowledgeable about the local area. The stops along the route for fresh fruit and local delicacies were much appreciated. It was very hot and humid when we were there, 35 - 39 degrees C every day and it was a fast group so it was certainly a challenging and rewarding cycle. Apart from one, all the hotels we stayed in were excellent and the food was superb with a real mixture of very small local eateries to bigger restaurants. The group was quite large - 16 but were all great company. I definitely recommend this trip.

By Jean from Stockport | 10 February 2023

Cycle Bangkok to Phuket ★★★★★

Thank you so very much for the way you organised and ran our trip. Great bikes, Excellent surfaces to ride on, 810km ridden. Our team - Nine, Arm, Nat, Mr Pong and Mr Reed you are amazing. A great adventure,

By Elisabeth from OPOTIKI | 05 August 2019

A good escape from a British Winter

★ ★ ★ ★

By Robert from Surrey | 20 February 2026

Very professional guides and wonderful local fresh food

★ ★ ★ ★

By Sue from Shropshire | 05 February 2026

Well organised trip

★ ★ ★ ★

A bit hard core cycling for me but I enjoyed it. The back up crew and guides were excellent.

By Jim from Hebden Bridge | 02 December 2025

A Great Way to See Thailand

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

By Jean from Stockport | 10 February 2023

Cycle Bangkok to Phuket

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

By Elisabeth from OPOTIKI | 05 August 2019

A great way to see this part of Thailand and its people.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

The trip was very well organised with outstanding support from the two ride leaders and two drivers. We were taken to places of interest at every opportunity and enjoyed genuine Thai food at lunch stops and in the evenings. Overnight accommodation was always good and sometimes excellent keeping in mind the need for appropriate distances each day in determining the location of hotels. This was a memorable trip and we are especially grateful for the response of the team following an injury to my ... wife. They could not have been more helpful.

By John from Carlisle | 08 February 2019

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Bangkok to Phuket Road Cycling Tour
With Flights

Without Flights
Departure Reference: BPMB/12/26/
This trip departs the UK on Thu 24 Dec returning to the UK on Tue 5 Jan

This trip begins on Fri 25 Dec and ends on Mon 4 Jan
This departure is guaranteed. Secure your place today with a deposit of US$425
Single Supplement Price: US$1,095 - Includes all group hotel and resort nights.
Download Trip Notes

Bangkok to Phuket Road Cycling Tour
With Flights

Without Flights
Departure Reference: BPMB/12/27/
This trip departs the UK on Fri 24 Dec returning to the UK on Wed 5 Jan

This trip begins on Sat 25 Dec and ends on Tue 4 Jan
This departure is available to book. Secure your place today with a deposit of US$425
Single Supplement Price: US$1,095 - Includes all group hotel and resort nights.
Download Trip Notes

Land Only Information

Please refer to the 'Joining Arrangements & Transfers' within Holiday Information for further details.

Flights and other transport to your destination should not be booked until you have received your booking confirmation and the departure is showing 'Guaranteed to Run' or 'Limited'.

The LAND ONLY dates and prices are for the itinerary starting at the hotel in Bangkok and ending on the island of Phuket. Airport transfers both on arrival and departure are not provided. Taxis are readily available and low cost.

BOOK WITH KE CONFIDENCE - No surcharge guarantee

The price of our holidays can change depending on a variety of factors but unlike some other tour operators, KE have undertaken to guarantee the Land Only price of your holiday will not change after you have booked. The price when you book is the price you will pay, whether you are booking for this year or the next. Book early to avoid any tour price increases, get the best flight prices and take advantage of our 'No Surcharge Guarantee'.

KE Adventure is a fully bonded tour operator. We hold an ATOL license (No: 2808) and are bonded with ABTA (Membership No: W4341)

Bangkok to Phuket Road Cycling Tour

Holiday Grades

Our Holiday Grades Explained

1 - 3 LEISURELY

4 - 6 MODERATE

7 - 9 CHALLENGING

10 - 12 TOUGH

Bangkok to Phuket Road Cycling Tour

Highlights

At a Glance

Accommodation & Meals

Overview

Is this holiday for you?

Why KE?

Itinerary

The Route

Essential Information

Thailand: Nelles Verlag Publishing. 1:1,500,000

Make this KE cycling holiday your own!

Independence with Security

Bike Wear

Other Stuff

Spares

Repairs

Extensions

Highlights of Angkor Extension

Extension Details

Highlights of Angkor Extension

4 Days

Sharing Price from

US$585

Single Traveller Price from

US$920

Single Room Supplement from

US$190

Extension Itinerary

Whats Included

What's Not Included

Reviews

Traveller Reviews

A good escape from a British Winter

Very professional guides and wonderful local fresh food

Well organised trip

A Great Way to See Thailand

Cycle Bangkok to Phuket

A great way to see this part of Thailand and its people.

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DATES & PRICES

2026

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2027

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Land Only Information

Flight Inclusive Information

BOOK WITH KE CONFIDENCE - No surcharge guarantee

Download Trip Notes

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