9 days
From US $3,695
Enchanting East Coast of Taiwan Bike Tour
We set out on a enthralling cycling adventure through Taiwan's diverse landscapes and rich culture. This unforgettable journey takes us from the vibrant city of Kaohsiung to the stunning cliffs of Taroko Gorge. We cycle picturesque coastal roads, traverse mountain ranges, and immerse ourselves in the scenic beauty of the Rift Valley. Enjoy a variety of experiences, from hot springs and cultural encounters to a mesmerizing cliff hike in Taroko Gorge. As we conclude our adventure, we ensure a seamless return to Taipei, making this an all-encompassing and exhilarating exploration of Taiwan's natural and cultural treasures.
Kaohsiung | 17:00hrs
Taipei
casual
moderate
60km or 36mi
6
Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH)
Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)
Min. 4, Max. 12
Highlights
Scenic Cycling Routes
Explore Taiwan's breathtaking landscapes, from lush mountains to serene coastal roads. Pedal through the picturesque countryside, passing by vibrant paddy fields and enchanting Indigenous villages, offering a unique glimpse into the island's cultural heritage.
Itinerary
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Place | casual Inns or similar | Meals | Distance | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAY 1 | Kaohsiung | Kindness Hotel | D | ||
| DAY 2 | Kenting | Howard Beach Resort | B,L,D | 40km / 25mi | cycling |
| DAY 3 | Dawu | Oriental Cloud B&B | B,L,D | 80km / 48mi | cycling |
| DAY 4 | Zhiben Hot Springs | Hoya Hot Spring Hotel & Spa | B,L,D | 55km / 34mi | cycling |
| DAY 5 | Antong Hot Springs | An Tong Hot Spring Hotel 981 | B,L,D | 115km / 71mi | cycling |
| DAY 6 | Guangfu | Hualien Tourism Sugar Factory Hotel | B,L,D | 60km / 36mi | cycling |
| DAY 7 | Taroko Gorge | Crossing the Rainbow Bridge | B,L,D | 80km / 50mi | cycling |
| DAY 8 | Taroko Gorge | Crossing the Rainbow Bridge | B,L,D | 25 km / 15 mi | hiking, cycling |
| DAY 9 | Train to Taipei | B |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Kaohsiung
You can arrive at Kaohsiung via flight or train from Taipei. Today, we come together in the evening for a bike fit and a briefing during dinner in Kaohsiung. This gathering ensures that everyone's bikes are properly set up, and we discuss the upcoming adventure. In addition to our bike-related activities, Kaohsiung offers a variety of interesting things to do.
You are free to explore the city's vibrant arts scene at the Pier-2 Art Center on your own, or stroll along Love River, and sample delicious Taiwanese street food at Liouhe Night Market. Night markets in Taiwan come up at sundown and sell everything from local crafts to street food to clothing. We highly recommend visiting at least one night market when in Taiwan.
Day 2: Kenting
We depart from Kaohsiung at 8 am to visit Fo Guang Shan — the largest Buddhist monastery and museum in Taiwan. Today, our plan includes a 40 km loop along mostly flat roads around the Southernmost Point of Taiwan.
In the afternoon, we cycle along the incredibly scenic coastline within Kenting National Park, with the opportunity to spend some time at a beach.
After dinner, we explore the renowned night market in the area.
Day 3: Dawu
Leaving Kenting, our journey takes us across the southern section of the central mountains, where we pass through enchanting Indigenous villages. We climb to an elevation of 480 meters ( 1,574 ft) before descending to the east coast, offering us our initial glimpse of the Pacific Ocean. If time permits, we can take a stroll on the Alanyi Coastal Trail which features a wonderful rocky trail and indigenous art. Our overnight stay is in a cozy coastal village, and we stay in a small family guest house. Today is a quiet evening given to admiring the natural beauty of this part of Taiwan.
Day 4: Zhiben Hot Springs
As we continue our journey along the east coast enjoying views of the Pacific Ocean, we will make a few photo stops to see installations by international artists.
Our next destination is Zhiben, one of the most famous hot springs in Taiwan. Today's ride is relatively short, covering just 40km, allowing us ample time to explore the Zhiben National Forest Recreational Area in the afternoon.
Stay tonight is at a charming resort with refreshing hot springs to rejuvenate us.
Day 5: Antong Hot Springs
Leaving the hot springs behind, we pedal through the fertile agricultural heartland of eastern Taiwan. The road meanders past fields of vibrant green crops—perhaps rice paddies swaying gently in the breeze or neat rows of vegetables stretching to the horizon. As the route progresses, we are treated to breathtaking ocean views. The road winds along the coastline, offering glimpses of rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and the endless expanse of the ocean. After a day of exhilarating cycling, unwind and relax in the soothing warmth of the hot springs as we stay tonight at An Tong Hot Springs hotel, renowned as one of the country's oldest, dating back to the Japanese Colonial Period (1895 – 1945).
Day 6: Guangfu
The Rift Valley, considered the favorite part of the island by most Taiwanese, is likely to win your favor as well. As we cycle northwards, vast paddy fields extend as far as the eye can see. The entire day is spent on a serene country road with minimal traffic, offering picturesque views of the coastal mountains to the right and the renowned Central Mountains to the left. Taiwan boasts an impressive 270 peaks surpassing 3,000 meters in elevation, and gazing at this range while heading north is a truly delightful experience. If time permits, we may visit Hinoki village, a collection of charming Japanese-style buildings built during Japanese rule over Taiwan that are today preserved as a cultural attraction. The Japanese introduced sugar cultivation to this part of Taiwan, and we stay tonight at a 100-year old guest house originally built by the Japanese.
Day 7: Taroko Gorge
As we head north, we reenter the valley on our way to Hualien. Later in the day, we return to the coast, where we get our first sight of the cliffs of Taroko Gorge. Taroko Gorge is a breathtaking natural wonder, known for its stunning marble canyons, towering cliffs, and crystal-clear rivers, making it one of Taiwan's most iconic and picturesque locations.
Day 8: Taroko Gorge
Today, we have no cycling planned.
In the morning we take a stroll along the Chongde Beach which is famous for its spectacular views of the Qingshui cliffs.
Due to the devastating earthquake in April 2024 all trails in Taroko Gorge are closed. However, we may still have the opportunity to drive through the gorge to marvel as it's wonder. Unfortunately we will not to be able to ride through it.
Day 9: Train to Taipei
On the last day, we drop you off at Hualien train station for you return journey to Taipei. The train tickets are prearranged and are included in the tour price.
Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.
Map
Dates and Prices
Single Supplement
From US $500
E-Bike Upgrade
From US $275
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Essential Info
Inclusions
LODGING
All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).
trip leader
Expert Trip Leader(s) who look after your every need and add meaning to your vacation.
bike
Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.
shuttle
A Van support follows the group of riders and carries all belongings.
meals
Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.
refreshments
Refreshments and mineral water while cycling.
entrance
Entrance fees to most of the monuments and temples.
Exclusions
Airport pickup and drop
We recommend to book direclty from airport or hotel.
Beverages
Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.
Gratuity
Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.
What to Expect
We want you to have a fantastic experience on your tour, so we aim to be upfront about what to expect along the way. Here are key details to keep in mind:
Taiwan is an off-beat tourist destination, so expect small, but comfortable and tastefully designed boutique hotels at most places. Also, Eastern Taiwan is sparsely populated, so expect a quiet, laid back ambience on most evenings once the cycling is done.
Arrival & Departure Details
Arrival at Kaohsiung:
- Kaohsiung Main Station: Kaohsiung Main Station is the primary train station in the city, and it's well-connected to the national railway network. It serves as a major transportation hub for travelers arriving in Kaohsiung by train from Taipei International Airport.
Here is a straightforward plan for your journey to Kaohsiung by train from Taipei International Airport:
- Airport to Taoyuan HSR Station: Take the airport link metro train to Taoyuan High Speed Rail (HSR) station. This journey takes about 15 minutes.
- Taoyuan HSR to Zuoying HSR Station: From Taoyuan HSR, board a high-speed train to Zuoying HSR station, which is the closest HSR station to Kaohsiung city.
- Zuoying to Kaohsiung: Upon arriving at Zuoying, I recommend opting for a taxi directly to your hotel.
Tickets are readily available at stations through vending machines and counters, so there is no need to purchase them in advance.
- Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH): If you're arriving by air, you'll most likely land at Kaohsiung International Airport. The airport is well-connected to major international and domestic destinations, making it a convenient entry point to the city.
You can take the MRT (metro) from the airport to your hotel.
Departure from Hualien:
The bike tour ends at Hualien, and we drop you off at the Hualien train station for the train ride to Taipei. The tickets for your train ride to Taipei are included in the trip price. Taipei is Taiwan's capital, and the Taoyuan International Airport in Taipei is the largest airport in the country. You can plan your onwards journey from here.
Weather
Spring (Feb to April) and autumn (September to November) are the ideal seasons for cycling in Taiwan. During spring, temperatures range from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F), and there might be occasional rain showers. Autumn offers even more pleasant conditions with temperatures between 24°C and 30°C (75°F to 86°F) and lower chances of rain. These seasons provide comfortable weather for cycling and exploring the scenic East Coast of Taiwan.
January
Good
February
Best
March
Best
April
Best
May
Mixed
June
Offseason
July
Offseason
August
Offseason
September
Mixed
October
Best
November
Best
December
Good
Best
Good
Mixed
Offseason
What to Pack
Packing smart is essential for a safe and enjoyable cycling adventure. From essential biking gear to clothing and travel necessities, this guide ensures you're prepared for any terrain or climate.
Recommended Bicycling Clothes & Gear
- Bicycling shoes or stiff-soled sneakers.
- Padded cycling shorts.
- Short-fingered cycling gloves (personal gloves are ideal).
- Brightly colored cycling jerseys or synthetic T-shirts for visibility.
- Synthetic cycling socks.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Personal helmet (recommended even though provided).
- Personal saddle (optional for added comfort).
- Rain jacket or windbreaker.
- Cycling water bottle (to reduce plastic waste).
Note: Helmets, gloves, and water bottles are personal items, so bringing your own is recommended for maximum comfort and hygiene.
Clothing
- Light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
- Full-sleeved clothing for sun protection.
- Warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings (if traveling in winter).
- Comfortable footwear for non-cycling time.
- Bring a compact rain jacket in case of sudden weather changes.
- Ethnic or modest clothing for exploring towns and temples.
Other Necessities
- Toiletries: Basic hygiene essentials, including insect/mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
- Plug socket adaptor.
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting or desert landscapes.
Pro Tips
- Pack light but plan for the varying temperatures: warm days, chilly evenings, and desert winds.
- Use brightly colored clothing for visibility on roads.
- Pack light to leave room for shopping.
Luggage
Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag. Mark your luggage with your name, address, and phone number.
Visa Information
Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:
- UK Residents: Stay informed by reviewing the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice.
- US Residents: Access vital travel tips and updates through the US Department of State Travel Advice.
- Australian Residents: Plan ahead with the latest updates on the Smart Traveller website.
- Canadian Residents: Find comprehensive travel and visa guidance on the Government of Canada's Travel Advice and Advisories.
- New Zealand Residents: Get practical travel advice on the New Zealand SafeTravel website
- Residents of Other Countries: Check with your government or local consulate for tailored travel advice and requirements.
Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Stay proactive by checking for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Travel Insurance
It is a mandatory requirement to purchase adequate travel insurance in order to participate in our tours and protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance—including coverage for trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses (including Covid-19), and personal liability—travel with greater peace of mind.
We do not sell travel insurance directly, as we believe our customers should have the freedom to choose a policy that best suits their needs. However, we recommend Insured Nomads as a great starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions
The fitness level required for each trip is indicated by the "level" of the tour, which in turn is mentioned on each tour page right next to the price and the trip duration.
Easy: The terrain is mostly flat with a few gentle climbs.
Moderate: The terrain is either mostly flat or consists of rolling hills with a few challenging climbs. There could also be a few days with longer riding distances of up to 75 kms (45 miles)
Difficult: The terrain is mostly hilly with strong elevation gains and/or has long days on the bike. Such trips are recommended for intermediate to advanced cyclists.
Please note that we usually bike around 4-5 hours per day irrespective of the level of the trip.
Yes, your trip leader will carry bottled water or RO water in a camper in the support van for guests' use.
Yes, please communicate your dietary preferences to your trip leader and they'll ensure that the food you eat is spiced as per your requirements.
The road surface is exceptional. 100% of the cycling on this bike tour happens on paved roads.
We've designed this itinerary such that most of the cycling happens on quieter countryside roads far from busy traffic. The shuttle transfers on this tour have been strategically planned to bypass busy vehicular traffic.
We are not medical advisors, and as such are not qualified to dispense medical advice. However, we recommend consulting the resources below for advice on vaccines and medications:
- CDC portal for travelers from the US
- NHS' Fit For Travel portal for travelers from the UK
- Smart Traveller portal or travelers from Australia.
In addition to the above, you may also refer to the travel advice issued from time to time by your government.
While your tour price covers most common expenses, a few meals are not included in the itinerary. This allows you the opportunity to dine independently and explore the local cuisine at your own pace. Your guides will be happy to provide recommendations if desired. As a general guideline, you can budget approximately US $100–200 per person for additional expenditures over the course of the trip.
Tips are not included in your tour price.
As a general rule, you may tip US$ 15-25 per person per day.
This figure is for the entire crew including the trip leader, the driver, and other support staff.
However, you are not obligated to tip, and you can always tip less or more than the above amount depending on the level of service you received on tour.
It is usually the norm to tip the tour guide, who then distributes the amount among the entire crew. However, you can also tip each individual member of the crew if you so desire.
In case you want to tip the staff at a hotel such as porters, you may pay them US $2-3 per day.
The meeting time on Day 1 is mentioned in your travel planner shared with you. You can arrive either on the morning of Day 1 depending on the meeting time, or book a pre-tour night to arrive a day earlier.
Yes, you may wear riding shorts while riding your bike. When not cycling, it would be advisable to wear comfortable full-length pants. We recommend keeping a pair of comfortable pants handy in you support van.
When visiting temples and monuments, visitors should wear full-length, loose-fitting pants. Holy places of certain religions may also require covering your head. Your guide will inform of the dress etiquette required for visiting specific religious places.
You can exchange currency at the airport itself, or at ATMs in larger cities. Most commercial establishments will accept international credit cards for payments, though its good to carry some local currency with you at all times.
For answers to broader questions, please visit our Comprehensive FAQs section.
