(12Th–23Th May, 2026) 12-Day Northern Vietnam & Halong Bay Motorbike Expedition: Mountains, Ethnic Cultures & Ocean Wonders

We start the morning by bidding farewell to Vu Linh and firing up our engines for the ride to Sapa—one of the standout highlights of our Northern Vietnam motorbike journey. The route unfolds like a living tapestry, carrying us through winding mountain roads, terraced rice fields, and vibrant ethnic villages home to the H’mong and Dzao communities. By late morning, we pause for lunch and enjoy the rich, authentic flavors of Vietnamese cuisine.

As we push deeper into the afternoon, the scenery grows increasingly dramatic. We make several stops along the way to take in sweeping views of the high mountains and lush valleys that define this part of the country.

Upon arriving in Sapa, we check into our accommodation before heading out to explore. The town buzzes with energy, from its bustling market to its panoramic views of the Hoang Lien Son mountain range. Those seeking extra adventure can opt to visit Cat Cat Village, known for its cultural traditions and picturesque waterfall.

Evening in Sapa is yours to enjoy—whether you choose to relax, explore the town, or dive into its lively nightlife—setting the stage for the exciting days that await on our continuing motorbike expedition.

After breakfast at a local restaurant, we dive into the lively morning market, meeting a mix of ethnic communities and capturing vibrant snapshots of daily highland life. Soon after, we put our riding skills to work as we navigate a series of challenging mountain passes, breaking for a satisfying lunch in Hoang Su Phi.

The afternoon brings one of the most exciting segments of our journey—a 40-kilometer off-road ride through dense jungle terrain as we push toward the Tay Con Linh mountain range. This trail stands out as one of the most stunning and adventurous routes of our entire Vietnam motorbike tour.

After conquering the off-road section, we merge back onto the main road for a smoother 20-kilometer ride toward Ha Giang, reconnecting with Road 2. If time allows, we may stop by Ha Thanh Waterfall for a refreshing visit. The day winds down as we check into our hotel, resting up for the incredible adventures that await.

Today, we continue our ride through the enchanting regions of Quang Ba, Dong Van, and Yen Minh—areas celebrated for their dramatic landscapes and the resilience of the local communities. Here, families have carved out a life on rocky slopes for generations, embracing simplicity with warmth and optimism.

We pause for a short break at a viewpoint café, where a quick climb rewards us with sweeping views over the Quang Ba valley. Lunch awaits in Yen Minh before we head to the ancient village of Pho Bang, known for its traditional clay-brick houses that stand as quiet witnesses to the past. Our journey continues with a visit to the Vuong Palace, an architectural gem blending Chinese and French influences, once home to the powerful H’mong royal family.

By late afternoon, we arrive in Dong Van and check into our hotel, settling in for a restful night before the next day’s adventures unfold.

Today’s ride is one of the most unforgettable highlights of our entire journey. We traverse the legendary 21-kilometer Mã Pí Lèng Pass—widely celebrated as Vietnam’s most breathtaking mountain road. Here, towering limestone peaks stretch dramatically into the sky, their green-clad cliffs plunging into deep river gorges below. It’s a surreal panorama that captures the true spirit of exploration and the raw beauty of the northern frontier.

Our final stop for the day is Bao Lac, a remote town where a mosaic of ethnic cultures meets. Known for its lively Sunday market, Bao Lac serves as a vibrant hub where groups from both sides of the border gather to trade, socialize, and share traditions.

As evening settles in, we check into our hotel, relaxing and recharging for the remarkable adventures that still lie ahead.

Today’s journey delivers an exciting mix of rugged terrain, including sections of broken road, off-road tracks, and several river crossings. We’ll climb multiple mountain passes and follow winding routes that challenge our riding skills while rewarding us with incredible scenery. Throughout the day, we’ll take plenty of breaks to rest, refuel, and soak in the views. Altogether, the ride will take around six hours, including stops for meals and refreshments.

After this action-packed ride, we slow the pace with a peaceful boat trip on Ba Be Lake—Vietnam’s largest freshwater lake. Here, you can swim, unwind, and enjoy the serene natural surroundings. Our day ends at Ba Be Lake View Homestay, where we gather for a delicious Tay-style dinner, complete with the local rice wine known fondly as “happy water.” Tonight, we settle into traditional stilt-house accommodations for an authentic and memorable stay.

After enjoying a hearty breakfast at Ba Be Lake View Homestay, we gear up for another exciting chapter of our Vietnam motorcycle adventure. Today’s destination is the majestic Ban Gioc Waterfall.

Our ride takes us along a combination of curving mountain roads and rugged off-road stretches, giving us the chance to admire sweeping landscapes while putting our riding abilities to the test.

The day’s highlight is Ban Gioc Waterfall—one of Vietnam’s greatest natural spectacles. As we draw closer, the powerful roar of cascading water surrounded by vibrant greenery creates an unforgettable first impression. You’ll have plenty of time to wander the area, soak in the scenery, and capture stunning photos.

After a full day of exploration and adventure, we settle into our accommodation near Ban Gioc, unwinding in the peaceful atmosphere of this extraordinary region.

After a fulfilling breakfast in the beautiful Ban Gioc area, we set off once again, continuing our exhilarating journey through the striking landscapes of Northern Vietnam.

Today’s route leads us from Ban Gioc to Bac Son, offering even more opportunities to experience the region’s natural splendor and cultural depth. Along the way, we travel across a mix of terrain—from sweeping mountain roads to smooth, well-maintained stretches—each revealing a new layer of the countryside’s charm.

We’ll pause at scenic viewpoints and local villages, giving you time to admire the breathtaking vistas, take photos, and interact with the communities that call this region home.

By late afternoon, we arrive in Bac Son and check in to our accommodations. Surrounded by lush rice fields and peaceful valley views, Bac Son provides an ideal place to unwind and reflect after another rewarding day on the road.

Today is dedicated entirely to relaxation and soaking in the breathtaking splendor of Halong Bay. We’ll drift along its calm waters, surrounded by towering limestone karsts and shimmering emerald scenery that has made this area one of the world’s most iconic landscapes.

Throughout the cruise, you’ll have the chance to explore stunning caves and grottoes, admiring the remarkable rock formations shaped by nature over centuries. Whether you prefer kayaking, taking a refreshing swim in the clear waters, or simply lounging on the sun deck, this day is all about unwinding and embracing the tranquil atmosphere of the bay.

As sunset paints the sky, Halong Bay transforms into a magical scene of glowing cliffs and gentle reflections. The evening on board includes a delicious dinner and time to enjoy the star-filled sky—an unforgettable and peaceful way to close out our Vietnam motorcycle adventure.

Our Vietnam motorcycle adventure reaches its final chapter today, but not before one last moment to savor the region’s beauty and culture.

After enjoying a leisurely lunch with sweeping views over the tranquil waters of Halong Bay, we bid farewell to this breathtaking seascape. From here, we make our return to Hanoi—this time relaxing in the comfort of a car.

As we travel through the picturesque countryside, you’ll have one more opportunity to take in the sights and sounds of Northern Vietnam. It’s the perfect moment to reflect on the incredible roads we’ve ridden, the people we’ve met, and the unforgettable experiences shared along the way.

Our journey concludes as we arrive back in the vibrant city of Hanoi, carrying with us a collection of memories that will last long after the ride is over.