Are you planning to take a motorbike tour in Vietnam this September, but still undecided about the perfect itinerary? Frontier Travel Vietnam is here to make your choice easier. Immerse yourself in the thrilling adventure of our exceptional motorbike tours to Northwest Vietnam. With routes meticulously designed by our experienced team, you'll traverse breathtaking landscapes, vibrant terraced rice fields, and gain a unique insight into the diverse cultures that define this remarkable region. This September, don't let uncertainty hold you back. Join us at Frontier Travel Vietnam for one-of-a-kind experience in your lifetime.
Intrigued by the fusion of vibrant culture and scenic landscapes that define the Northwest of Vietnam? Frontier Travel Vietnam offers an exciting 7-day journey that starts from Hanoi Old Quarter and traverses through the best of what this region has to offer focusing especially on lesser-known, off-the-beaten tracks that will pique the interest of any avid explorer.
Day 1: Hanoi to Mai Chau.
The thrilling ride begins in the lively city of Hanoi. Heading north, riders encounter their first treat - the Hong Son Lake. This compelling spectacle showcases a symbiosis of nature’s finest elements, tiny islands seemingly adrift amidst vast forest, all under the watchful sentinel of towering limestone mountain peaks. This captivating landscape offers plenty of opportunities for photo enthusiasts who have a passion for capturing moments and vistas like these.
As the journey continues further north, riders navigate smooth roads that deliver them through increasingly idyllic landscapes. This route is known for its natural charm, offering endless surprises that delight and inspire along the way.
Following a day immersed in nature, riders then arrive at the tranquil Mai Chau in the afternoon. Here, there is time to explore the valley’s stilt houses, rice paddies, and experience the unique way of life of the Thai ethnic minority before dinner.
The evening brings a cultural immersion that contracts with the day’s natural explorer. The Thai Dance show offers a glimpse into the local culture and traditions, accompanied by local delicacies for dinner.
Finally, the day concludes with a night in traditional Thai Stilt Houses, providing a unique experience of the local lifestyle, away from the regular hotels.
Day 2: Mai Chau - Phu Yen
Day 2 begins pleasantly with a wholesome breakfast in the homestay before bidding adieu to the gracious villagers of Mai Chau. The journey continues in the direction of Moc Chau, a delightful highland town regarded for producing some of Vietnam’s best tea.
En route to Moc Chau, travelers will be treated to the sight of sprawling tea plantations, inviting them to take a short break and stock up on this local produce. Moc Chau brims with cultural wealth being home to several ethnic minorities, including the H’mong, Dzao, and Thai. Their presence provides a unique opportunity to soak in the varied cultural nuances of the region.
Post a local lunch in Moc Chau, it’s time to traverse the less explored byways. The journey moves away from the usual paths to Road 43, leading to the Da River. This deviation unveils a panorama that ranges from the far-stretching flatlands to the brims of the Da River, creating a wonderful contrast of landscapes.
The reservoir of the Da River reached via the Van Yen ferry offers another scenic halt during the journey. It is the blend of water and land routes that makes this voyage even more captivating.
Finally, the day’s ride concludes upon reaching the mountain town of Phu Yen, a district of Son La Province situated in the Northwestern region of Vietnam. Known for its picturesque setting amidst towering peaks, travelers get to unwind in a basic but cozy homestay, nestled amidst the natural allure of this town.
This day’s expedition is an exquisite blend of cultural interactions, beautiful landscapes, and a rendezvous with some proficient tea makers of Vietnam. It’s the combination of lesser trodden paths and numerous attractions en route that make this journey more exciting and rewarding.
Day 3: Phu Yen - Nghia Lo
On day 3, the journey seeks to immerse travelers in the rich tapestry of Vietnam’s history as they venture from Phu Yen to Nghia Lo. As the morning light begins to warm the scenic landscape, riders bid farewell to Phu Yen and embrace the thrill of the forthcoming ride across the historic Lung Lo Pass.
In September, this pass transforms from a mere travel route into a captivating gallery of lush green landscapes. This serenity, however, belies its turbulent past. During the First Indochina War, Lung Lo Pass served as a crucial artery, carrying weapons, supplies, and food to support the Dien Bien Phu campaign in 1945. Bearing the scars of heavy bombing by the French, the pass stands as a testament to the resilience of the Vietnamese resistance.
This 15km-long pass, nestled in Yen Bai province in the north of Vietnam, is not just a geographical phenomenon, but a national heritage. Riding through it not only offers challenging exhilarating twists and turns but glimpses into a past marred by struggle and determination.
Having journeyed through time and relished the dynamic landscapes along Lung Lo Pass, riders reach the town of Nghia Lo by nightfall. Here, comfort awaits in the forms of a warm hotel, marking the end of the day’s journey.
Day 4: Nghia Lo - Mu Cang Chai
This day commences with a hearty breakfast in Nghia Lo, following which you embark on the journey to the highlight of this adventure - Mu Cang Chai. The route winds its way through striking mountainous landscapes, fertile hills adorned with green tea plantations, and increasingly high mountain ranges.
Ascending into this grandeur, you ride through the Khau Pha Pass, one of the most significant passes in Northern Vietnam, especially bathed in September’s vibrant hues. The scenically rich roads invite numerous stops for capturing the breathtaking landscapes.
On traversing the Khau Pha Pass, the beautiful valley of Tu Le unfolds at its foot. Offering quaint landscapes for photography and rest, it signals the nearing of your destination.
The ultimate plum of this journey is reaching Mu Cang Chai: a national pride and a designated Vietnam’s national heritage site. More than a sight, Mu Cang Chai is an experience: the sprawling hilly paddy fields, the intricacy of terraces, the rural symphony of agricultural practices, all reflecting a sublime artistry and decades of hard work.
Beyond the stunning vistas, Mu Cang Chai brims with vibrant cultures. The Hmong minority tribe of Vietnam has deeply integrated their lifestyle with these landscapes. Their colorful ethnic costumes and rural way of life offer a visual and emotional treat, creating highly cherished memories and photo opportunities.
The day concludes with an immersive experience by staying overnight in a homestay governed by Thai ethnic people, providing a close-up view into their daily lifestyle.
Day 5: Mu Cang Chai - Sapa
Setting off from Mu Cang Chai, day 5 takes you on a thrilling ride through the spectacular Quy Ho Pass, hemmed by heavenly clouds and majestic mountains. This picturesque scene features extensive tea, corn, and rice plantations, a testament to the region’s rich agriculture.
The ride culminates at Sapa town, a beloved highland retreat popular among tourists. Its appeal is magnified in September, the temperate weather perfectly highlighting Sapa’s charm and splendid landscapes.
Unmissable is the iconic Sapa Stone Church. Developed during the French colonial era, it’s more than a historical relic, fostering unique cultural exchanges between diverse ethnic minorities.
Day 6: Sapa - Thac Ba
Starting in Sapa, Day 6 takes you a fascinating drive down to Lao Cai city. Here, you get to enjoy a coffee break uniquely stationed on the Vietnam-China border, adjacent to the tranquil Nam Thi river.
The next leg of the journey leads you through Road 70 to Luc Yen, via Road 152. This route takes you through a wide palm forest, leading to Dzao village, Vu Linh, nestled beside the majestic Thac Ba Lake, Vietnam’s largest man-made reservoir.
This vast artificial lake covering 23,400 hectares is a beacon of biodiversity with over 1331 idyllic islands and hills. A stunning shade of blue, the water reflects the surrounding ancient forest, creating a picturesque scene. Speckled around this landscape are unique caves, including Hum, Cam Cuoi, and Bach Xa.
A languid boat ride follows lunch. On this nautical journey, experience swimming on an isolated island, observe traditional boat-paddling methods by local villagers, and embrace the tranquil serenity of Thac Ba lake. You also get a chance to immerse yourself in the rich cultural customs of the Dzao tribe dwelling amid the scattering of islands.
Day 7: Thac Ba - Hanoi
The final day of this journey begins in Thac Ba with a fulfilling breakfast, setting the stage for an exciting ride southeast on Highway 2. The trip veers off towards Phu Tho, a quaint town largely undisturbed by the bustle of city life.
You then follow along the Red River's edge skirting the dyke and move closer to the area where it confluences with the Black River, flowing as one towards Hanoi. Now the journey enters the lush delta plains of the north, a vital zone for the region's agriculture.
On crossing the Black River via a bridge, the route takes you through Son Tay, ultimately leading you towards Hanoi via the highway. The plan is to reach Hanoi before the onset of the evening rush hour (around 4 pm), to avoid the increasing traffic.
The final day, from the tranquil expanse of Thac Ba to the hustle of Hanoi, presents a fascinating contrast. The ride along the scenic delta plains, the confluence of major rivers, and the evolving landscapes from rural to urban, mark an incredible close to your journey.
Conclusion
This coming September, immerse yourself in the ultimate travel experience with Frontier Travel Vietnam's 7-day motorbike adventure. This trip stands out as the best choice for exploring Northwest Vietnam's stunning landscapes and rich cultural tapestry.
The journey, skillfully laid out, guides you through paths less trodden, unveiling the secret charms of the region — from the historical alleys of Hanoi Old Quarter to the enigmatic valleys of Sa Pa and the serene expanse of Thac Ba lake. This adventurous exploration, combined with interactive experiences with the local communities, provides a matchless itinerary for your September travel plan.
In September, Vietnam's beauty is accentuated by its vibrant hues and delightful weather. This makes it a perfect opportunity to witness the verdant rice fields in full bloom, enjoy the tranquility of Vietnam's largest man-made lake, explore the bustling cityscape of Hanoi, and experience the country's charm in its entirety.
So, make this September a memorable one with Frontier Travel Vietnam's motorbike tour. More than just a trip, this is a voyage of discovery, promising the most engaging, educational, and visually enticing exploration of Vietnam. Unravel the best of Vietnam this September with this unparalleled journey.
