Kuching: Heritage Bike Tour, Sampan River Ride & Street Food

Summary

Cycle Kuching’s old lanes, river villages and open-air markets with a local

You’ll pedal through Kuching’s heritage streets with a local guide, cross the Sarawak River on a traditional sampan boat, explore Malay kampong villages, and sample real street food at Kubah Ria market. Expect laughter over kuih lapis, new smells around every corner, and small moments that stick with you long after you’ve left.

What’s the experience like?

We were already weaving through Kuching’s narrow backstreets when I realized how different the city feels from a bike. Our guide, Hafiz, waved us down at a painted shophouse — he pointed out faded Chinese characters above the doorway and told us about the family who’d lived there for generations. There was incense in the air from a nearby temple, and honestly, I almost missed it because I was too busy trying not to wobble into traffic. The ride isn’t hard, but you do need to keep your eyes up — there’s always something happening. A cat darted past (of course, Cat City), and Hafiz just grinned like he sees it every day.

After about an hour we rolled onto a wooden jetty and waited for the old sampan boat to take us across the Sarawak River. The water looked muddy but peaceful. There was this moment where everything went quiet except for the slap of water against the hull. On the other side — Kampong life is slower. Kids waved at us as we cycled past stilt houses and gardens full of chili plants. We stopped for kuih lapis (I tried to say it right; Hafiz laughed at my attempt) and some sweet tea that tasted like nothing back home.

The last part took us to Kubah Ria market. It’s noisy, colorful, kind of chaotic in a good way. You can smell durian before you see it — not my favorite but someone in our group loved it. There were piles of wild honey jars and these weird-looking jungle ferns for sale. We tried some grilled snacks I still can’t name. By then my legs were tired but I didn’t really want it to end yet. Sometimes you get more out of a place by moving slowly through it, you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Heritage bike tour and local market visit

• Cycle around heritage buildings
• Visit temples and Malay Kampong
• Take Sampan boat cruise on Sarawak River
• Explore rural Malay village
• Savor traditional Malay foods
• Visit Kubah Ria open air market
• Discover local fruits and handicrafts

Top questions

How long is the Kuching heritage bike tour?

The tour lasts about 4.5 hours and covers around 17km (10.5 miles).

Is food included on this Kuching bike tour?

Yes, food tasting and light refreshments are included during stops.

Does this tour include crossing the Sarawak River?

Yes, you’ll ride a traditional sampan boat across the river as part of the route.

Are children allowed on this heritage bike tour?

Children are welcome with an adult; specialized infant seats are available.

What should I wear for cycling in Kuching?

Comfortable walking shoes and clothes are recommended for this bike tour.

Is hotel pickup included in this Kuching bike tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; check meeting details when booking.

Is this bike tour suitable for all fitness levels?

The route is suitable for all physical fitness levels but not recommended for those with poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes use of a bicycle and helmet, guidance from an English-speaking local expert throughout Kuching’s heritage zone, bottled water to keep you going in the heat, plus plenty of food tastings — from kuih lapis in kampong villages to snacks at Kubah Ria market — all along the way.