(23Rd -29Th Sept, 2025) 7-Day Motorcycle Adventure Through Northwest Vietnam

Duration: 7 days

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

Set off on a captivating 7-day motorcycle adventure through Northern Vietnam, beginning in Hanoi and venturing into the picturesque valleys of Mai Chau. Traverse the lush tea plantations of Moc Chau, ferry across the Da River, and ride to the mountain town of Phu Yen. Navigate the historic Lung Lo Pass and the stunning Khau Pha Pass en route to Mu Cang Chai. Discover the charm of Sapa, stand at the Vietnam-China border, and cruise the tranquil waters of Thac Ba Lake - embracing the breathtaking scenery and diverse cultures at every turn.

Departure point

Hanoi

From

$1.505

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Want more information about the program? Contact us!

Itinerary

Day 1: (23rd Sept) HANOI – MAI CHAU (170 KM/ APPROX. 4 HOURS) (L/D)

Day 2: (24th Sept) MAI CHAU – PHU YEN (190 KM/ APPROX. 6 HOURS) (B/L/D)

Day 3: (25th Sept) PHU YEN – NGHIA LO (130 KM/ APPROX. 6 HOURS) (B/L/D)

Day 4: (26th Sept) NGHIA LO – MU CANG CHAI (130KM/ APPROX. 4 HOURS) (B/L/D)

Day 5: (27th Sept) MU CANG CHAI - SAPA (160 KM/ APPROX. 5 HOURS) (B/L/D)

Day 6: (28th Sept) SAPA - THAC BA (230 KM/ APPROX. 6 HOURS) (B/L/D)

Day 7: (29th Sept) THAC BA - HANOI (180 KM/ APPROX. 5 HOURS) (B/L)

Day 1: (23rd Sept) HANOI – MAI CHAU (170 KM/ APPROX. 4 HOURS) (L/D)

Departing from Hanoi, we journey north alongside the serene Hong Son Lake, where emerald waters reflect the surrounding limestone peaks and forested islets, creating a postcard-worthy landscape. As we continue, smooth roads guide us through breathtaking scenery, leading us to Mai Chau in the afternoon. Upon arrival, there’s time to explore at your own pace before dinner. In the evening, experience the vibrant culture of the Thai ethnic group with a traditional dance performance. We’ll spend the night in cozy Thai stilt houses, fully embracing the charm and authenticity of this peaceful valley.

Day 2: (24th Sept) MAI CHAU – PHU YEN (190 KM/ APPROX. 6 HOURS) (B/L/D)

After a hearty breakfast at our homestay, we say goodbye to the villagers and set off from Mai Chau toward Moc Chau, a highland town famed for its fragrant tea plantations. It’s the perfect stop to sample and stock up on some of the region’s finest tea. The area is also home to diverse ethnic communities, including the Green H’mong, Dzao, Thai, and Muong.

Following lunch in Moc Chau, we take the less-traveled Road 43, winding through remote landscapes toward the Da River. A ferry ride across the Van Yen Reservoir offers a scenic pause before we continue along a picturesque secondary road. By late afternoon, we arrive in the mountain town of Phu Yen in Son La Province, where we’ll settle into a simple homestay, soaking in the area’s authentic charm and hospitality.

Day 3: (25th Sept) PHU YEN – NGHIA LO (130 KM/ APPROX. 6 HOURS) (B/L/D)

In the morning, we continue our adventure, tackling the rugged and historic Lung Lo Pass before joining Road 32. This 15-kilometer stretch played a vital role during the First Indochina War, as the Vietnamese resistance relied on it to transport weapons, food, and supplies to support the 1954 Dien Bien Phu campaign. To weaken the supply route, the French heavily bombed the pass, making it a key battleground in history.

Today, Lung Lo Pass, located in Yen Bai Province, stands as a national heritage site, offering a ride that is both challenging and deeply rewarding. The dramatic landscapes and historical significance make this an unforgettable part of the journey. After an exhilarating day, we’ll settle in for the night at a comfortable hotel, recharging for the adventures ahead.

Day 4: (26th Sept) NGHIA LO – MU CANG CHAI (130KM/ APPROX. 4 HOURS) (B/L/D)

After breakfast, we set off from Nghia Lo toward Mu Cang Chai, traversing a breathtaking mountainous landscape. The journey takes us through rolling hills blanketed in lush tea plantations, with the terrain gradually rising as we approach the legendary Khau Pha Pass—one of Northern Vietnam’s four greatest mountain passes.

Riding along some of the most scenic roads in the region, we’ll have plenty of opportunities to stop for photos, capturing the stunning views. Along the way, we pass through Tu Le, a picturesque valley nestled at the foot of the pass, known for its terraced fields and hot springs.

Mu Cang Chai, recognized as a national heritage site, is famed for its cascading rice terraces and is home to the Hmong ethnic minority. Their traditional way of life, colorful attire, and the breathtaking landscapes make this an incredible destination for photography and cultural exploration. We’ll spend the night in a cozy homestay with the Thai ethnic people, immersing ourselves in the local culture.

Day 5: (27th Sept) MU CANG CHAI - SAPA (160 KM/ APPROX. 5 HOURS) (B/L/D)

Leaving Mu Cang Chai behind, we embark on a breathtaking ride through the legendary Quy Ho Pass, where clouds drift over towering mountains and valleys stretch endlessly into the horizon. The route unfolds through lush tea, corn, and rice plantations, with each turn revealing stunning landscapes. Conquering the winding mountain passes brings both exhilaration and a deep appreciation for the raw beauty of Northern Vietnam.

Arriving in Sapa, a renowned highland retreat, we take time to explore its unique charm. A must-visit landmark is the Sapa Stone Church, an iconic relic from the French colonial era. More than just a historical site, the church serves as a cultural hub where ethnic minority groups gather daily for trade and traditional exchanges, adding to Sapa’s vibrant atmosphere.

Tonight, we settle into a welcoming homestay, soaking in the crisp mountain air and the rich cultural tapestry of this remarkable town.

Day 6: (28th Sept) SAPA - THAC BA (230 KM/ APPROX. 6 HOURS) (B/L/D)

After breakfast at the hotel, we begin our descent from Sapa to Lao Cai City, where we pause for a coffee break along the Nam Thi River, the natural border between Vietnam and China. Here, you can sip your coffee while enjoying a scenic view of China just across the water.

Continuing our journey, we ride along Road 70 before turning onto the quieter Road 152 toward Luc Yen. The route winds through lush palm forests, leading us to Vu Linh, a tranquil village on the shores of Thac Ba Lake, home to our Dao friends. Covering 23,400 hectares, Thac Ba Lake is Vietnam’s largest man-made lake, adorned with 1,331 islands and hills, each hosting diverse ecological habitats. Its crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding ancient forests, while hidden caves like Hum, Cau Cuoi, and Bach Xa add to the lake’s mystique.

After lunch, we set out on a relaxing boat ride across the serene waters, making a stop at an island for a refreshing swim. Along the way, we observe the daily lives of local villagers paddling their boats, spot exotic wildlife, and immerse ourselves in the peaceful beauty of the lake. This is a unique opportunity to connect with the Dao people and experience their way of life in harmony with nature.

Day 7: (29th Sept) THAC BA - HANOI (180 KM/ APPROX. 5 HOURS) (B/L)

After breakfast, we set off southeast on Highway 2, making our way toward the peaceful town of Phu Tho. Riding along the edge of the Red River, we follow its winding path near the point where it meets the Black River, just before the two merge and flow toward Hanoi. At this stage, we are deep in the fertile lowlands of the delta plains - Vietnam’s agricultural heartland, where lush rice fields and bustling village life unfold around us.

Crossing the Black River via bridge, we continue through Son Tay before joining the highway back to Hanoi. Our goal is to arrive before the late afternoon rush (around 4 pm), avoiding the city’s heavy traffic as we conclude our incredible journey through Northern Vietnam.

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

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.