(24Th September – 1St October, 2026) 8-Day Northwest Vietnam Motorbike Tour | Mountain Roads & Ethnic Villages

Duration: 8 days

Destination:

Embark on an unforgettable 8-day motorbike journey through Northwest Vietnam, where adventure unfolds with every mile. Leaving the bustle of Hanoi behind, the road leads into the peaceful Mai Chau Valley, shaped by rice terraces, bamboo groves, and traditional Thai stilt houses.

The ride continues through Moc Chau’s rolling tea hills before a quiet ferry crossing over the Da River, offering a brief pause amid vast mountain scenery. From there, the route climbs into the highlands of Phu Yen, crossing iconic roads such as Lung Lo Pass and the sweeping curves of Khau Pha Pass.

Mu Cang Chai reveals a landscape of dramatic terraced mountains, carved by hand over generations, before the journey reaches misty Sapa, where diverse cultures meet soaring peaks near Vietnam’s northern border. The adventure concludes with a peaceful boat trip across Thac Ba Lake, where emerald waters and limestone outcrops bring the journey to a calm and memorable close.

Departure point

Hanoi

From

$1.720

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Itinerary

Day 1: (24th Sept, 2026) HANOI – MAI CHAU (170 KM / ~4 HOURS) (L/D)

Day 2: (25th Sept, 2026) MAI CHAU – PHU YEN (190 KM / ~6 HOURS) (B/L/D)

Day 3: (26th Sept, 2026) PHU YEN – NGHIA LO (130 KM / ~6 HOURS) (B/L/D)

Day 4: (27th Sept, 2026) NGHIA LO – MU CANG CHAI (130 KM / ~4 HOURS) (B/L/D)

Day 5: (28th Sept, 2026) MU CANG CHAI – SAPA (160 KM / ~5 HOURS) (B/L/D)

Day 6: (29th Sept, 2026) SAPA RELAXATION DAY (B/L/D)

Day 7: (30th Sept, 2026) SAPA – THAC BA LAKE (230 KM / ~6 HOURS) (B/L/D)

Day 8: (1st Oct, 2026) THAC BA – HANOI (180 KM / ~5 HOURS) (B/L)

Day 1: (24th Sept, 2026) HANOI – MAI CHAU (170 KM / ~4 HOURS) (L/D)

Leaving Hanoi behind, we ride north toward the tranquil shores of Hong Son Lake, where jade-green waters mirror towering limestone cliffs and scattered forested islets. Gentle curves and open views make this an ideal warm-up ride into Northern Vietnam’s countryside.

By mid-afternoon, we arrive in the peaceful Mai Chau Valley. There’s time to wander through the village or relax before dinner. In the evening, enjoy a lively cultural performance featuring traditional Thai dances. Tonight, you’ll stay in charming stilt houses—an authentic introduction to local life in one of the region’s most serene valleys.

Day 2: (25th Sept, 2026) MAI CHAU – PHU YEN (190 KM / ~6 HOURS) (B/L/D)

After breakfast, we bid farewell to our hosts and climb toward the cool highlands of Moc Chau, a region renowned for its vast tea plantations. Along the way, we pass through a mosaic of cultures, with Green H’mong, Dzao, Thai, and Muong villages scattered across the hills.

After lunch, we follow the quiet Road 43 toward the Da River and cross the Van Yen Reservoir by local ferry—a calm, scenic break in the journey. From there, a peaceful backroad leads us deeper into the mountains before reaching Phu Yen, a small town in Son La Province known for its warm hospitality. Overnight at a cozy, rustic homestay.

Day 3: (26th Sept, 2026) PHU YEN – NGHIA LO (130 KM / ~6 HOURS) (B/L/D)

Today’s ride takes us over the historic Lung Lo Pass, a rugged 15-kilometer mountain road deeply connected to Vietnam’s wartime history. During the 1954 Battle of Dien Bien Phu, this pass served as a crucial supply route and was heavily bombed—its scars still visible today.

Now recognized as a national heritage site, Lung Lo Pass offers dramatic scenery and a powerful sense of history. By late afternoon, we descend into Nghia Lo, where a comfortable hotel stay allows time to rest and recharge.

Day 4: (27th Sept, 2026) NGHIA LO – MU CANG CHAI (130 KM / ~4 HOURS) (B/L/D)

After breakfast, we ride toward Mu Cang Chai through rolling hills blanketed with tea plantations before climbing the legendary Khau Pha Pass—one of Northern Vietnam’s highest and most spectacular mountain passes.

We pause at scenic viewpoints along the way and pass through the beautiful Tu Le Valley, famous for its terraced rice fields and natural hot springs. The day ends in Mu Cang Chai, a national heritage site celebrated for its breathtaking hand-carved rice terraces. Overnight at a local homestay, where strong Hmong traditions and warm hospitality define the experience.

Day 5: (28th Sept, 2026) MU CANG CHAI – SAPA (160 KM / ~5 HOURS) (B/L/D)

This morning, we head toward the iconic O Quy Ho Pass, often described as riding “through the clouds.” Mist drifts across dramatic peaks while deep valleys open below, creating some of the most striking scenery of the entire journey.

Arriving in Sapa, Vietnam’s most famous highland town, you’ll explore its unique blend of cultures and mountain atmosphere. Visit the historic Sapa Stone Church and observe local life as ethnic communities gather around the town center. Overnight at a welcoming homestay, surrounded by crisp mountain air.

Day 6: (29th Sept, 2026) SAPA RELAXATION DAY (B/L/D)

Today is a slower-paced day designed for recovery and exploration. After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed ride around Sapa, following scenic mountain roads and visiting nearby villages such as Cat Cat or Ta Phin, where traditional ethnic lifestyles remain well preserved.

Stop at panoramic viewpoints for photos before enjoying lunch. In the afternoon, unwind with a herbal bath or spa treatment—an ideal reward after several days on the road. A cozy dinner wraps up this restful day in the highlands.

Day 7: (30th Sept, 2026) SAPA – THAC BA LAKE (230 KM / ~6 HOURS) (B/L/D)

After breakfast, we descend from Sapa to Lao Cai, stopping for coffee beside the Nam Thi River, which marks the border between Vietnam and China. From here, we follow Road 70 before turning onto quieter Road 152, riding through palm forests and gentle countryside toward Vu Linh, a Dao village on the shores of Thac Ba Lake.

After lunch, we board a boat and cruise across the lake’s emerald waters. We stop at a small island for swimming and observe daily lakeside life—wooden boats gliding past, birds nesting among branches, and the unhurried rhythm of this remote region.

Day 8: (1st Oct, 2026) THAC BA – HANOI (180 KM / ~5 HOURS) (B/L)

Our final day follows Highway 2 through Phu Tho Province, tracing the course of the Red River as it approaches its meeting point with the Black River. The ride passes fertile plains, small villages, and expansive rice fields—a vivid portrait of Vietnam’s agricultural heartland.

After crossing the Black River, we continue toward Son Tay before rejoining the main road back to Hanoi. We aim to arrive before late-afternoon traffic, bringing this 8-day journey through the mountains, cultures, and landscapes of Northwest Vietnam 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.