Setting off from Hanoi, we escape the busy streets and ride toward the serene countryside along the Red River. The landscape gradually transforms into rolling hills and limestone outcrops as we approach Hoa Binh province. Smooth, scenic roads guide us into the peaceful Mai Chau Valley—home of the White Thai people.
Arriving in the afternoon, enjoy free time to stroll through stilt-house villages, walk among rice fields, or simply relax in the calm mountain air. After dinner, immerse yourself in the rich cultural traditions of the Thai ethnic group with an engaging local dance performance. Tonight, we stay in charming Thai stilt houses, embracing the warmth and authenticity of this tranquil valley.
After a hearty breakfast, we bid farewell to our hosts and ride toward Moc Chau, a highland region known for its vast tea plantations and cool climate. We stop to sample local tea and learn about the diverse ethnic communities who call this region home, including the Green H’mong, Dzao, Muong, and Thai.
Following lunch in Moc Chau, we take the less-traveled Road 43—a beautiful stretch of winding mountain road leading to the Da River. A short ferry ride across the Van Yen Reservoir offers a refreshing change of pace as we soak in panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Continuing along a quiet secondary road, we reach Phu Yen in the late afternoon. Tonight’s accommodation is a simple yet welcoming local homestay, where you’ll experience the genuine hospitality and charm of Son La Province.
Today’s journey takes us over the rugged and historically important Lung Lo Pass, a key supply route during the First Indochina War and a symbol of Vietnamese resilience. As we ascend the 15-kilometer pass, you’ll ride through dramatic landscapes scarred by past conflicts yet now thriving with new life.
The sweeping views, sharp curves, and rich historical significance make this one of the most memorable sections of the tour. After descending, we merge onto Road 32, riding through scenic valleys and rural countryside before reaching Nghia Lo.
Check in to our hotel and enjoy a well-deserved rest after a remarkable day of adventure and history.
After breakfast, we continue north toward Mu Cang Chai, riding through some of the most beautiful highland scenery in Northern Vietnam. The road winds past lush tea plantations and rolling hills before climbing toward the famed Khau Pha Pass—one of the “Four Great Passes” of Vietnam.
Along the way, we stop at picturesque viewpoints overlooking Tu Le Valley, known for its terraced rice fields, hot springs, and ethnic minorities.
Our final destination, Mu Cang Chai, is a national heritage site celebrated for its breathtaking rice terraces and vibrant H’Mong culture. Tonight, we stay in a traditional Thai homestay, offering a warm, authentic glimpse into local life.
Today’s ride leads us toward one of the most iconic mountain regions in Vietnam. We traverse dramatic landscapes, passing tea hills, cornfields, and deep valleys before ascending toward the legendary O Quy Ho Pass—the gateway to Sapa.
At over 2,000 meters, this high-altitude route treats us to sweeping vistas and cool mountain breezes as clouds drift along the peaks.
Upon arrival in Sapa, we explore its unique blend of ethnic culture and French colonial history, including the famous Sapa Stone Church—the vibrant heart of the town where local communities gather for trade and daily life.
This evening, we settle into a cozy homestay, surrounded by the refreshing mountain air and the rich cultural mosaic of the region.
After breakfast, we descend from Sapa to Lao Cai City, stopping for coffee along the Nam Thi River—the natural border with China. Here, you can admire the unique sight of two countries separated only by a narrow waterway.
We continue along Road 70 before entering the lush, palm-covered valleys of Luc Yen. The ride leads us toward Vu Linh Village on the shores of Thac Ba Lake, home to the Dao ethnic group.
Thac Ba Lake, spanning 23,400 hectares with over 1,300 islands, is one of Vietnam’s largest man-made lakes and a haven of natural beauty. After lunch, we enjoy a relaxing boat trip, exploring hidden coves and stopping at an island for a refreshing swim. Along the way, observe local fishermen, spot wildlife, and savor the tranquility of this remarkable landscape.
Tonight, we stay in a traditional Dao homestay, experiencing local customs in harmony with nature.
After breakfast, we begin our final stretch toward Hanoi, riding southeast along Highway 2 toward Phu Tho. The road follows the gentle curves of the Red River as it approaches its confluence with the Black River, offering peaceful views of rural delta life—rice paddies, fishing boats, and small village markets.
Crossing the Black River, we continue through Son Tay before merging onto the main highway back to Hanoi.
We aim to reach the city before the late afternoon rush (around 4 PM), ensuring a smooth return and a perfect conclusion to our unforgettable Northwest motorcycle quest.
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.
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.