(23Rd -29Th Sept, 2025) 7-Day Motorcycle Adventure Through Northwest Vietnam
Overview
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.
Itinerary
Day 1: (23rd Sept) HANOI – MAI CHAU (170 KM/ APPROX. 4 HOURS) (L/D)
Day 1: (23rd Sept) HANOI – MAI CHAU (170 KM/ APPROX. 4 HOURS) (L/D)
Motorbike
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)
Day 2: (24th Sept) MAI CHAU – PHU YEN (190 KM/ APPROX. 6 HOURS) (B/L/D)
Motorbike
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)
Day 3: (25th Sept) PHU YEN – NGHIA LO (130 KM/ APPROX. 6 HOURS) (B/L/D)
Motorbike
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)
Day 4: (26th Sept) NGHIA LO – MU CANG CHAI (130KM/ APPROX. 4 HOURS) (B/L/D)
Motorbike
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)
Day 5: (27th Sept) MU CANG CHAI - SAPA (160 KM/ APPROX. 5 HOURS) (B/L/D)
Motorbike
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)
Day 6: (28th Sept) SAPA - THAC BA (230 KM/ APPROX. 6 HOURS) (B/L/D)
Motorbike
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)
Day 7: (29th Sept) THAC BA - HANOI (180 KM/ APPROX. 5 HOURS) (B/L)
Motorbike
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.
Additional details
Included
Not Included
- Visa to Vietnam
- Riding gear
- Any other transportation is not mentioned in the itinerary
- Personal Insurance
- Bike Insurance which is available @ USD20 per day (individual cost)
- Drinks
- Meals are not mentioned in the itinerary
- Tip for guide
- Other personal expenses
Thing To Carry
- Passport
- Good sunglasses
- Good shoes for walking
- Other personal needs and some cash for drinks or souvenirs.
- Riding gears:
1. Motocross/dirt bike boots
2. Body armor for summer/Boby protective jacket for winter
3. Gloves
4. Riding pants
5. Protective helmet
6. Goggle with open-face helmet and dirt bike helmet
Cancellation Policy
- If you cancel 30 days before departure, your deposit will be fully refunded.
- If you cancel from 29 to 15 days before the departure date, 50% of your tour package will be charged.
- A later cancellation from 14 days before the departure date, 100% of the total will be charged.
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