(11Th–17Th June, 2026) 7 Days Exploring Northwest Vietnam: A Motorbike Adventure Across Mountains & Hill Tribe Lands

Duration: 7 days

Destination:

Embark on a captivating 7-day motorbike adventure through the heart of Northern Vietnam, beginning in the energetic streets of Hanoi. Ride into the tranquil Mai Chau Valley, where rice paddies and traditional stilt homes showcase the gentle rhythm of rural life. Journey across Moc Chau’s rolling tea hills, glide over the Da River on a quiet ferry crossing, and ascend into the peaceful highlands of Phu Yen.

Continue toward the historic Lung Lo Pass and the cloud-brushing bends of Khau Pha Pass before arriving in the terraced wonderland of Mu Cang Chai. Traverse the mist-covered mountains of Sapa, stand at the border where Vietnam meets China, and unwind with a serene boat trip across the emerald waters of Thac Ba Lake. Each day delivers fresh landscapes, vibrant ethnic cultures, and unforgettable moments carved into the open road.

Departure point

Hanoi

From

$1.505

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Itinerary

Day 1: (3Rd May, 2026) HANOI – MAI CHAU (170 KM / APPROX. 4 HOURS) (B/L)

Day 2: (4Th May, 2026) MAI CHAU – PHU YEN (190 KM / APPROX. 6 HOURS) (B/L/D)

Day 3: (5Th May, 2026) PHU YEN – NGHIA LO (130 KM / APPROX. 6 HOURS) (B/L/D)

Day 4: (6Th May, 2026) NGHIA LO – MU CANG CHAI (130 KM / APPROX. 4 HOURS) (B/L/D)

Day 5: (7Th May, 2026) MU CANG CHAI – SAPA (160 KM / APPROX. 5 HOURS) (B/D)

Day 6: (8Th May, 2026) SAPA – THAC BA LAKE (230 KM / APPROX. 6 HOURS) (B/L/D)

Day 7: (9Th May, 2026) THAC BA – HANOI (180 KM / APPROX. 5 HOURS) (B/L)

Day 1: (3Rd May, 2026) HANOI – MAI CHAU (170 KM / APPROX. 4 HOURS) (B/L)

Departing from Hanoi, we ride north toward the serene shores of Hong Son Lake, where jade-green waters mirror towering limestone cliffs and scattered emerald islets. The route offers gentle curves and wide-open views, creating a journey that feels both relaxing and beautifully scenic. By mid-afternoon, we arrive in the peaceful Mai Chau Valley.

You’ll have time to stroll through the village or unwind before dinner. In the evening, enjoy a cultural performance showcasing the traditional dances of the Thai ethnic community. Tonight, we stay in charming stilt houses, offering an authentic window into local life and the warm hospitality of the people who call this valley home.

Day 2: (4Th May, 2026) MAI CHAU – PHU YEN (190 KM / APPROX. 6 HOURS) (B/L/D)

After enjoying breakfast at the homestay, we say goodbye to our warm hosts and begin riding toward the cool plateau of Moc Chau. This highland region is famous for its fragrant tea hills, making it a perfect place to sample and purchase some of the area’s finest blends. As we travel, you’ll notice the cultural diversity of the region, home to the Green H’mong, Dzao, Thai, and Muong communities.

After lunch in Moc Chau, we continue along quiet, scenic Road 43, passing through untouched and lesser-known landscapes on the way to the Da River. A peaceful ferry crossing over the Van Yen Reservoir offers a refreshing break before we follow a charming backroad deeper into the mountains. By late afternoon, we arrive in Phu Yen, a small town in Son La Province, and settle into a rustic homestay where the genuine warmth and hospitality of the locals bring the day to a perfect close.

Day 3: (5Th May, 2026) PHU YEN – NGHIA LO (130 KM / APPROX. 6 HOURS) (B/L/D)

We begin the day by taking on the legendary Lung Lo Pass, a rugged route deeply rooted in Vietnamese history. Stretching for about 15 kilometers, this mountain pass once served as a vital supply line for Vietnamese forces during the 1954 Battle of Dien Bien Phu. Its strategic significance made it a constant target, and the French military repeatedly bombed the area in an effort to cut off the resistance. The marks left behind have turned Lung Lo into a powerful symbol of perseverance and sacrifice.

Now recognized as a national heritage site in Yen Bai Province, Lung Lo Pass offers riders a unique blend of physical challenge and emotional depth. Sweeping views, untamed mountain landscapes, and echoes of the past make this one of the journey’s most unforgettable highlights. By late afternoon, we arrive at our hotel, where a restful evening provides the perfect recharge for the adventures ahead.

Day 4: (6Th May, 2026) NGHIA LO – MU CANG CHAI (130 KM / APPROX. 4 HOURS) (B/L/D)

After breakfast, we depart Nghia Lo and begin our journey toward Mu Cang Chai, following a route that steadily climbs into some of Northern Vietnam’s most dramatic mountain landscapes. The early stretch winds through gentle hills blanketed in lush tea plantations before the road ascends toward the famed Khau Pha Pass—one of the highest and most celebrated passes in the region.

The ride is filled with postcard-perfect viewpoints, and we’ll make several stops to take in and photograph the breathtaking scenery. Along the way, we pass through the picturesque Tu Le Valley, a tranquil countryside area known for its terraced fields and naturally warm mineral springs.

Our final destination for the day is Mu Cang Chai, a national heritage site renowned for its spectacular rice terraces carved into the mountainsides. This region is home to the Hmong people, where traditional attire, long-held customs, and dramatic highland vistas come together to create a rich cultural experience. As evening descends, we settle into a cozy homestay hosted by the Thai ethnic community—an inviting retreat that offers genuine warmth and an authentic glimpse into daily life.

Day 5: (7Th May, 2026) MU CANG CHAI – SAPA (160 KM / APPROX. 5 HOURS) (B/D)

Leaving Mu Cang Chai behind, we ride toward the majestic Quy Ho Pass—a route often described as “riding through the clouds.” Mist drifts across towering peaks while vast valleys unfold far below, creating some of the most enchanting vistas in Northern Vietnam. The road winds along slopes planted with tea, corn, and rice, and every turn reveals another striking view of rugged mountain wilderness. It’s a ride that blends pure exhilaration with a deep appreciation for the untamed landscape around us.

Arriving in Sapa—Northern Vietnam’s iconic mountain retreat—we take time to explore the town’s unique atmosphere. One of its highlights is the historic Sapa Stone Church, a colonial-era landmark that still serves as a lively gathering place for local ethnic communities. On market days, the area around the church bursts with color, traditional clothing, animated conversations, and the vibrant cultural energy that makes Sapa so captivating.

As night settles over the highlands, we check in to a welcoming homestay, enjoying the crisp mountain air and the rich cultural diversity that defines this remarkable town.

Day 6: (8Th May, 2026) SAPA – THAC BA LAKE (230 KM / APPROX. 6 HOURS) (B/L/D)

After breakfast, we descend from Sapa toward Lao Cai and pause for a relaxing coffee beside the Nam Thi River—the natural border between Vietnam and China. From Lao Cai, we follow Road 70, then slip onto the quieter Road 152 as the scenery shifts into palm forests and peaceful countryside on our way to Vu Linh, a Dao village on the edge of Thac Ba Lake.

After lunch, we take a gentle boat cruise across the lake’s emerald waters, stopping at a small island for a refreshing swim. Along the way, we observe daily life on the water—villagers paddling wooden boats, wildlife moving through the trees, and the tranquil rhythms that define this remote region. It's a perfect chance to connect with the Dao community and experience their serene lakeside lifestyle.

Day 7: (9Th May, 2026) THAC BA – HANOI (180 KM / APPROX. 5 HOURS) (B/L)

After breakfast, we begin the final stretch of our journey, riding southeast along Highway 2 toward Phu Tho Province. The road follows the Red River as it nears its confluence with the Black River, leading us through fertile delta plains filled with rice fields and lively village life—an authentic glimpse into Vietnam’s agricultural heartland.

After crossing the Black River, we continue toward Son Tay and merge onto the main route back to Hanoi. We aim to reach the capital before late-afternoon traffic, ensuring a smooth return. As we roll into Hanoi, our unforgettable adventure through the landscapes and cultures of Northern Vietnam comes to a memorable close.

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: (11Th–17Th June, 2026) 7 Days Exploring Northwest Vietnam: A Motorbike Adventure Across Mountains & Hill Tribe Lands

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