(3Rd - 9Th December, 2025) 7-Day Northwest Vietnam Adventure: Ride The Heart Of The Mountains

Duration: 7 days

Destination: Mai Chau, Mu Cang Chai, Sapa, Vu Linh, Hanoi

Experience a 7-day motorcycle adventure through the heart of Northern Vietnam, beginning in Hanoi and venturing through the idyllic valleys of Mai Chau. Explore Moc Chau's peaceful tea plantations, cross the Da River by ferry, and head towards the mountain town of Phu Yen. Conquer the historic Lung Lo Pass and navigate the breathtaking mountain roads, including the dramatic Khau Pha Pass, all the way to Mu Cang Chai. Unveil the charm of Sapa, visit the Vietnam-China border, and cruise the serene Thac Ba Lake before returning to Hanoi, soaking in the region's natural wonders and rich heritage.

Departure point

Hanoi

From

$1.505

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Want more information about the program? Contact us!

Itinerary

Day 1: (3rd Dec) HANOI – MAI CHAU (170 KM/ APPROX. 4 HOURS) (L/D)

Day 2: (4th Dec) MAI CHAU – PHU YEN (190 KM/ APPROX. 6 HOURS) (B/L/D)

Day 3: (5th Dec) PHU YEN – NGHIA LO (130 KM/ APPROX. 6 HOURS) (B/L/D)

Day 4: (6th Dec) NGHIA LO – MU CANG CHAI (130KM/ APPROX. 4 HOURS) (B/L/D)

Day 5: (7th Dec) MU CANG CHAI - SAPA (160 KM/ APPROX. 5 HOURS) (B/L/D)

Day 6: (8th Dec) SAPA - THAC BA (230 KM/ APPROX. 6 HOURS) (B/L/D)

Day 7: (9th Dec) THAC BA - HANOI (180 KM/ APPROX. 5 HOURS) (B/L)

Day 1: (3rd Dec) HANOI – MAI CHAU (170 KM/ APPROX. 4 HOURS) (L/D)

We leave Hanoi and, as we head north, with the Hong Son Lake on our side, we enjoy the magnificent scenery with the beautiful complex of tiny islands, somewhat lost in between the surrounding forests, and limestone mountain peaks that make an idyllic picture-worthy spot. We continue our trip to the north and ride on a smooth road, meeting more charming landscapes on our way. In the afternoon, we arrive at Mai Chau, where we have some time to wander and see more of the city, just before dinnertime. After dinner, we can see firsthand a traditional Thai Dance show, until it is time to go to sleep.

We spend the night in Thai stilt houses.

Day 2: (4th Dec) MAI CHAU – PHU YEN (190 KM/ APPROX. 6 HOURS) (B/L/D)

After breakfast in home-stay, we say goodbye to the villagers and ride from Mai Chau to the direction of Moc Chau, where we have lunch. This highland town produces some of Vietnam’s best tea and is a good place to stock up. The surrounding area is also home to several ethnic minorities, including Green H’mong, Dzao, Thai and Muong.

After lunch, we turn to the less traveled Road 43 leading to the Da River, crossing the reservoir of Da river at Van Yen ferry, then ride on a beautiful winding secondary road until Phu Yen mountain town (a district of Son La Province in the Northwestern region of Vietnam), where we stay in a basic homestay.

Day 3: (5th Dec) PHU YEN – NGHIA LO (130 KM/ APPROX. 6 HOURS) (B/L/D)

In the morning, we keep motorbiking across Lung Lo pass before heading up on Road 32 .

During the First Indochina War, the 15km-long Lung Lo Pass, used by the Vietnamese resistance force to transport weapons, goods and food during the Dien Bien Phu campaign of 1954, was heavily bombed by the French in order to sever the front lines from the rear.

Lung Lo Pass, situated in the northern province of Yen Bai, was also recognized as a national heritage by the ministry. The ride through this pass is challenging but very rewarding. Overnight in a hotel.

Day 4: (6th Dec) NGHIA LO – MU CANG CHAI (130KM/ APPROX. 4 HOURS) (B/L/D)

After breakfast, we’ll continue riding from Nghia Lo – Mu Cang Chai. This journey passes through stunning mountainous landscape, featuring fertile hilly areas covered with green tea plantations, the mountains get higher and higher. We will go over the Khau Pha pass (one of the four greatest passes in Northern Vietnam).

The ride is on some of the most scenic roads which offer a lot of stops for picturing. We’ll cross Tu Le – a beautiful valley located at the foot of the pass.

We have a full day to discover the beauty of this mountainous district. Mu cang chai – the hilly paddy growing districts, are designated as Vietnam’s national heritage site. It is home to Vietnam’s Hmong minority tribe, whose rural way of life & colorful ethnic costumes and amazing scene for photography.

Overnight in the homestay of Thai ethnic people.

Day 5: (7th Dec) MU CANG CHAI - SAPA (160 KM/ APPROX. 5 HOURS) (B/L/D)

We start our journey from Mu Cang Chai, riding through Quy Ho Pass amidst breathtaking clouds and mountains. The scenic route showcases vast tea, corn, and rice plantations. Overcoming winding passes and stunning mountain ranges bring both excitement and a sense of accomplishment.

Sapa town, a popular highland tourist destination, is definitely worth a visit. One must-see spot is the Sapa Stone Church, an iconic structure built during the French colonial era. It serves as a spiritual landmark and offers a picturesque backdrop for memorable photos. Additionally, the church attracts diverse ethnic minority communities who gather daily for trade and cultural exchanges, highlighting the vibrant local culture.

Overnight at the homestay in Sapa.

Day 6: (8th Dec) SAPA - THAC BA (230 KM/ APPROX. 6 HOURS) (B/L/D)

After having breakfast at the hotel, we’ll take our motorbikes down from Sapa to Lao Cai City and then have a coffee-stop on the bank of Nam Thi river, which is the Vietnam – China border. Enjoy your coffee while taking in the view of China. Head to Road 70 before turning to Luc Yen on Road 152. We go through palm forest all the way via Luc Yen to our Dao friends’ village of Vu Linh, which is located by the side of Thac Ba lake, the biggest man-made lake in Vietnam.

This artificial lake has an area of 23,400 ha and 1,331 islands and hills with diverse ecological environments. The water in the lake is blue and clear, and imprinted with the reflections of the surrounding ancient forest. The thousands of hills and islands feature caves such as the Hum, Cau Cuoi and Bach Xa.

Sapa Motorcycle Tour to Vu Linh – Thac Ba Reservoir

After lunch, we take the boat ride, stop by an island for swimming and discover the particularities of this area: the way villagers paddle their boats, the exotic and odd animals living around, the quiet and peaceful beauty of this huge lake, the lifestyle of the Dao among the thousands of islets.

Day 7: (9th Dec) THAC BA - HANOI (180 KM/ APPROX. 5 HOURS) (B/L)

After breakfast, we ride southeast on Highway 2 and then branch off to the sleepy town of Phu Tho. We follow the edge of the Red River along the dyke, almost to the point where it merges with the Black River after which they flow together to Hanoi. By now we are very much in the lowlands of the delta plains and the north’s main agricultural areas.

Crossing the Black River by a bridge, we pass through Son Tay and then return to Hanoi on the highway. We should be back to Hanoi before rush-hour (4 pm) because traffic’s getting busier and busier.

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

All is inclusive tour: From 145 USD to 190 USD/ day/ pillion

Single hotel room extra: 30 USD/ Room/ Night

Single stay along Ho Chi Minh Trail Tours: 40 USD/ Room/ Night

Support truck 150 USD/ Day/ Group (Optional Upon Requested)

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 – Built for Adventure

The Ultimate Adventure Companion

The Yamaha Tenere 700 is one of the most sought-after adventure motorcycles in the world – and for good reason. Designed to take on any terrain with ease, the Tenere 700 blends power, agility, and reliability, making it the perfect choice for riders who crave real off-road experiences while still enjoying long-distance comfort.

Whether you’re carving through Vietnam’s high mountain passes, winding through jungle trails, or cruising on coastal roads, the Tenere 700 delivers a ride that’s both thrilling and dependable.

Motorbike model

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.