(03Rd–09Th September, 2026) Vietnam Unleashed – 7-Day Northwest Motorbike Journey Through Untamed Peaks

Duration: 7 days

Destination:

Discover the rugged beauty of Northwest Vietnam on a 7-day motorbike journey that leads you through Mu Cang Chai, Sapa, O Quy Ho, Son La, and Thac Ba Lake. Each day offers a new layer of the north: cloud-draped mountain passes, sweeping rice terraces, and deep connections with highland ethnic communities. Designed for riders craving a compact yet meaningful adventure, this route blends iconic landscapes with authentic local culture — an unforgettable way to experience the untamed spirit of Vietnam’s Northwest.

Departure point

Hanoi

From

$1.505

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Itinerary

Day 1: ( 3rd Sept 2026): Hanoi – Phu Yen (150 Km / Approx. 4 Hours) (L/D)

Day 2: (4Th Sept 2026): Phu Yen – Son La (170 Km / Approx. 5 Hours) (B/L/D)

Day 3: (5Th Sept 2026): Son La – Dien Bien Phu (160 Km / Approx. 5 Hours) (B/L/D)

Day 4: ( 6Th Sept 2026): Dien Bien – Lai Chau (120 Km / Approx. 4 Hours) (B/L/D)

Day 5: ( 7Th Sept 2026): Lai Chau – Sapa (via O Quy Ho Pass) (110 Km / Approx. 4 Hours) (B/L/D)

Day 6: ( 8Th Sept 2026): Sapa – Thac Ba Lake (230 Km / Approx. 6 Hours) (B/L/D)

Day 7: ( 9Th Sept 2026): Thac Ba – Hanoi (180 Km / Approx. 5 Hours) (B/L)

Day 1: ( 3rd Sept 2026): Hanoi – Phu Yen (150 Km / Approx. 4 Hours) (L/D)

We leave Hanoi in the early morning and cruise out of the city on quiet backroads hugging the Red River. Within minutes, the scenery transforms — concrete gives way to rice paddies, little tea hills, and the first limestone peaks rising on the horizon.
Small roadside stops offer chances to sip hot tea with locals or snap photos of farmers working the fields.

As the road curls deeper into the Northwest, the breeze turns cooler and the mountains widen around us. By mid-afternoon, we arrive in Phu Yen, a gentle valley town wrapped in soft hills. After checking into a traditional stilt-house homestay, we take a short walk to explore the village and chat with Thai or Muong families.
A warm home-cooked dinner closes the day — simple, rustic, and welcoming.

Overnight: Traditional stilt-house homestay in Phu Yen.

Day 2: (4Th Sept 2026): Phu Yen – Son La (170 Km / Approx. 5 Hours) (B/L/D)

A new day begins with breakfast at the homestay before we ride deeper into the mountains. The landscape gradually becomes more dramatic: terraced fields, river valleys, and scattered villages of Thai, H’Mong, and Dao communities.

We stop for lunch at a quiet local eatery, then continue toward Son La, cruising through the foothills of the legendary Pha Din Pass, which we will conquer tomorrow.

Arriving in Son La in the afternoon, we settle into the hotel. Those curious about history can visit the former French colonial Son La Prison, now a museum offering a powerful perspective on Vietnam’s past.

Overnight: Hotel in Son La.

Day 3: (5Th Sept 2026): Son La – Dien Bien Phu (160 Km / Approx. 5 Hours) (B/L/D)

Today brings one of the most anticipated highlights: Pha Din Pass — one of Vietnam’s Four Great Mountain Passes.

As we climb, the scenery shifts dramatically: rolling hills sharpen into cliff faces, cloud layers drift across the ridgeline, and distant valleys stretch endlessly below. Villages appear like tiny dots on steep slopes, and every curve offers a new postcard-worthy moment. It’s clear why “Pha Din” means Heaven and Earth in the Thai language.

After the long descent, we gently cruise toward Dien Bien Phu, arriving in the late afternoon. You may explore the town a bit or simply unwind at a café overlooking the quiet border valley.

Overnight: Hotel in Dien Bien Phu.

Day 4: ( 6Th Sept 2026): Dien Bien – Lai Chau (120 Km / Approx. 4 Hours) (B/L/D)

Leaving Dien Bien behind, we enter one of the Northwest’s most remote and peaceful regions. The road flows between mountains, rivers, and isolated ethnic villages — a place where the daily rhythm feels timeless.

We slow down often to enjoy the scenery or greet locals tending their fields. With almost no tourist traffic, this stretch of road brings a sense of true remoteness.

By early afternoon, we reach Lai Chau, a calm mountain town framed by high peaks and open valleys. It’s the perfect base for tomorrow’s climb to O Quy Ho Pass.

Overnight: Guesthouse or hotel in Lai Chau.

Day 5: ( 7Th Sept 2026): Lai Chau – Sapa (via O Quy Ho Pass) (110 Km / Approx. 4 Hours) (B/L/D)

Prepare for one of the greatest rides in all of Vietnam.

The road from Lai Chau winds toward O Quy Ho Pass, the highest and arguably most spectacular of the Four Great Passes. The ascent is pure joy: sweeping turns, cool mountain air, and dramatic views of steep slopes and cloud-covered ridges. On clear days, the panorama from the top is nothing short of breathtaking.

Descending into Sapa, we enter a vibrant highland town known for its terraced valleys and diverse ethnic cultures. After checking into our homestay, you’ll have free time to explore the stone church, wander the market, or simply relax in the cool mountain breeze.

Overnight: Homestay in Sapa.

Day 6: ( 8Th Sept 2026): Sapa – Thac Ba Lake (230 Km / Approx. 6 Hours) (B/L/D)

After breakfast, we ride downhill toward Lao Cai, following a scenic road that opens wide views toward the Chinese border. A short coffee break by the Nam Thi River gives us a unique moment to look across into China.

We then follow quieter rural routes into Luc Yen and eventually reach Vu Linh Village beside the serene Thac Ba Lake — the largest man-made lake in Vietnam.

After lunch, a peaceful boat trip takes us across the glassy water to visit small islands, hidden coves, and (optionally) enjoy a refreshing swim. Locals paddling slender boats, animals grazing along the shore, and the stillness of the lake all create a beautifully calm atmosphere.

Tonight, we stay in a Dao stilt-house homestay right by the water.

Overnight: Dao ethnic homestay in Vu Linh Village.

Day 7: ( 9Th Sept 2026): Thac Ba – Hanoi (180 Km / Approx. 5 Hours) (B/L)

We say goodbye to our hosts and ride southeast through rural villages and tea hills. The road traces the meeting point of the Red River and Black River, marking our gradual return from mountain country to the northern delta.

Crossing the Black River and passing through Son Tay, we aim to reach Hanoi before the late-afternoon traffic rises.

By the time we arrive in the city, the rhythm of Hanoi feels fast again — but behind us are days filled with peaks, passes, valleys, lakes, and roads that few travelers ever get to ride. It’s the perfect closing chapter to a truly unforgettable Northwest journey.

Tour map

Supplementary information

This section provides supplementary information to help you better understand the service. It includes specifics on what is included, what is not included, and other relevant notes or conditions that may apply.

Motorbike model

Honda CRF300L

The Honda CRF300L offers 27 bhp of power with a low weight of around 153 kg, making it agile and easy to handle on mixed terrain. Its 34.8‑inch seat height and strong reliability rating (4.7/5) make it a trusted choice for riders seeking both adventure and dependability.

Motorcycle information	Description
Owners’ reliablility rating	: (4.7/5)
Power	: 27 bhp
Seat height	: (34.B in / 885mm)
Weight	: Low (337 lbs / 153kg)

Kawasaki KLX 250

The Kawasaki KLX 250 is a versatile, lightweight dual-sport motorcycle designed for both off-road trails and city riding. With its fuel-injected 249cc engine, long-travel suspension, and agile handling, it’s perfect for adventure riders seeking performance and reliability.

Motorcycle information	Description
Owners’ reliablility rating	: (4.7/5)
Power	: 24.7 bhp
Seat height	: 885 mm
Weight	: Low (337 lbs / 146 kg)

Yamaha Tenere 700

The Yamaha Tenere 700 is a highly capable adventure motorcycle, built to excel on all types of terrain while offering long-distance comfort. Combining strong power, agile handling, and proven reliability, it’s ideal for riders who want a thrilling yet dependable machine for challenging off-road routes and scenic journeys alike.

Motorcycle information	Description
Owners’ reliablility rating	: (4.7/5)
Power	: 72 hp
Seat height	: 34.4 in (875mm)
Weight	: 204 kg (452lb) wet/curb

Honda Transalp 750

The Honda XL750 Transalp is a versatile mid-weight adventure motorcycle, engineered to balance long-distance touring comfort with agile performance on diverse terrain. Featuring smooth power delivery, advanced rider aids, and Honda’s renowned reliability, it’s the perfect choice for riders seeking a dependable machine for both highway stretches and off-road exploration.

Motorcycle information	Description
Owners’ reliability rating	(4.6/5)
Power	90.5 hp
Seat height	33.5 in (850 mm)
Weight	208 kg (458 lb) wet/curb

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions? We've got answers! Find common queries about our adventure programs.

Test Despite of the fact that Vietnamese government attempts to outlaw the practice, the US Dollars still acts as an alternative currency which is almost completely interchangeable with Vietnam Dong. Many prices, especially for hotels, tours and expensive restaurants, are still quoted in USD, though you can pay in dong if you’d rather - just check what exchange rate they’re using.

For everyday expenses, we recommend you carry a mix of US Dollars cash and Vietnam Dong. For larger items or when the exchange rate works in your favour, use dollars. For cyclos, local food stalls and small purchases, it’s best to use Vietnam Dong. In either case, make sure you always have a stock of small notes so that there is no need to worry about change.

The short answer is, there's never a bad time to visit Vietnam! Not all seasons are created equal though and there are pros and cons to each.

March - April is typically the best season in terms of weather to visit Vietnam. Expect sun, mild temperatures and limited rain! This also means busy season, so make sure to book in advance if you plan to visit during these months.

May - August is the hotter times of the year in Vietnam and also the rainier season. Don't be too scared of the rain though! It typically only lasts an hour or two per day, if that. This rarely disrupts travel or our tours and you get to enjoy warmer weather.

September - November are a secret gem of a time to visit Vietnam. The temperature becomes more moderate than the summer, rain stops, and the conditions are perfect for trekking or motorcycle trips. This is also when Full Moon Celebrations happen in Vietnam, so it's a particularly festive season to experience Vietnamese culture.

December - February are the coldest months in Vietnam. During these months you may prefer to visit the southern parts of Vietnam which are warmer, and we have many tours that operate there!

Absolutely! If you and your friends are looking for a private, one-of-a-kind adventure, we’ll design a trip just for your group. Share your travel ideas with us through our Tailor Made Tour form or message us on WhatsApp (+84 962913811), and together we’ll create an itinerary that perfectly matches your interests, pace, and style.

Yes, solo travelers are more than welcome to join our scheduled group tours. We operate group departures every month. Simply contact us to check the upcoming dates, and we’ll be happy to arrange for you to join a suitable group.

No, there are no hidden costs/fees. The price we agree on is the price you pay.

There are certain things that are not included in some trips, like alcohol, souvenirs, etc. All of our trip pages show very clear "Trip Inclusions" and "Trip Exclusions" so you know exactly what you're paying for and what is optional.

Tipping is always optional, but very appreciated. If your guides worked hard for you and your experience was great, feel free to show them!

At Frontier Travel, we don’t just offer tours — we deliver once-in-a-lifetime adventures.

✅ Local Expertise & Passion

With over a decade of experience leading international riders, we know Vietnam like the back of our hands. Our local guides take you beyond the tourist trails to places only true adventurers get to see.

✅ Custom Adventures, Real Connections
Every journey is handcrafted to match your style — whether it’s off-road thrills, cultural immersion, or both. Along the way, you’ll connect deeply with local people, landscapes, and stories.

✅ Top-Quality Service & Safety
From well-maintained motorbikes and gear to 24/7 support, we prioritize your safety and comfort at every turn. Our support crew, guides, and mechanics have your back from start to finish.

✅ Authentic, Responsible Travel
We believe in giving back. By riding with us, you help support ethnic minority communities through our handmade craft shop in Hanoi — "With Love from the Mountains."

✅ Small Groups. Big Memories.
We keep our groups small to ensure a personal, flexible, and unforgettable experience — where everyone becomes part of the Frontier family.

Book a tour: (03Rd–09Th September, 2026) Vietnam Unleashed – 7-Day Northwest Motorbike Journey Through Untamed Peaks

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