(3Rd - 9Th August, 2025) Conquer Northwest Vietnam: The Ultimate 7-Day Motorcycle Adventure

Duration: 7 days

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

Kickstart an exhilarating 7-day motorcycle adventure across Northern Vietnam, beginning in Hanoi and weaving through the stunning valleys of Mai Chau. Ride past the lush tea fields of Moc Chau, ferry across the Da River, and ascend to the charming town of Phu Yen. Conquer the legendary Lung Lo and Khau Pha Passes on your way to Mu Cang Chai, soak in the beauty of Sapa, stand at the Vietnam-China border, and cruise the tranquil waters of Thac Ba Lake. Experience breathtaking landscapes and vibrant 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: (3rd August) HANOI – MAI CHAU (170 KM/ APPROX. 4 HOURS) (L/D)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Setting off from Hanoi, we head north along the tranquil shores of Hong Son Lake, where emerald waters mirror towering limestone peaks and lush islets, painting a picture-perfect scene. The smooth, winding roads take us through breathtaking landscapes before reaching Mai Chau in the afternoon. Upon arrival, enjoy some free time to explore at your own pace before dinner. In the evening, immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Thai ethnic group with a captivating traditional dance performance. We'll spend the night in charming Thai stilt houses, embracing the warmth and authenticity of this serene valley.

Day 2: (4th August) 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: (5th August) PHU YEN – NGHIA LO (130 KM/ APPROX. 6 HOURS) (B/L/D)

In the morning, our adventure continues as we take on the rugged and historically significant Lung Lo Pass before merging onto Road 32. This 15-kilometer mountain pass played a crucial role during the First Indochina War, serving as a vital supply route for the Vietnamese resistance during the 1954 Dien Bien Phu campaign. In an effort to disrupt these efforts, the French military heavily bombarded the area, turning Lung Lo into a fierce battleground and an enduring symbol of resilience.

Today, Lung Lo Pass - nestled in Yen Bai Province and recognized as a national heritage site - offers a ride that is both physically demanding and emotionally resonant. With its sweeping views, dramatic mountain scenery, and rich historical backdrop, this stretch of road leaves a lasting impression. After a thrilling day on the trails, we’ll arrive at our hotel for a well-deserved rest, recharging for the adventures that lie ahead.

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

After breakfast, we begin our journey from Nghia Lo to Mu Cang Chai, traversing a spectacular mountainous landscape that unfolds with every turn. The route winds through rolling hills adorned with lush tea plantations, gradually ascending toward the legendary Khau Pha Pass - one of Northern Vietnam’s most iconic mountain passes.

As we ride along some of the region’s most scenic roads, we’ll pause at various viewpoints to soak in and capture the breathtaking vistas. En route, we pass through the charming valley of Tu Le, nestled at the base of the pass and renowned for its terraced rice fields and soothing hot springs.

Our destination, Mu Cang Chai, is a national heritage site celebrated for its stunning rice terraces carved into the hillsides. Home to the Hmong ethnic community, the area offers a rich cultural tapestry - where vibrant traditional dress, age-old customs, and awe-inspiring scenery come together in harmony. Tonight, we’ll stay in a warm and welcoming homestay with the Thai ethnic people, offering a chance to experience authentic local life and hospitality.

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

Departing from Mu Cang Chai, we embark on a spectacular journey through the legendary Quy Ho Pass - where clouds float gently over majestic peaks and sweeping valleys stretch into the distance. The ride winds through verdant plantations of tea, corn, and rice, with each twist and turn unveiling new layers of Northern Vietnam’s untamed beauty. Navigating these dramatic mountain roads offers both a thrilling challenge and a profound connection to the landscape.

Upon arrival in Sapa, the region’s most celebrated highland retreat, we take time to explore its unique character and charm. One of its most iconic landmarks is the Sapa Stone Church, a striking remnant of the French colonial period. More than a historical monument, the church remains a lively meeting point where ethnic minorities gather for trade, conversation, and cultural exchange - adding to the town’s colorful, dynamic spirit.

This evening, we settle into a cozy homestay, breathing in the fresh mountain air and immersing ourselves in the vibrant cultural mosaic that makes Sapa truly unforgettable.

Day 6: (8th August) 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: (9th August) THAC BA - HANOI (180 KM/ APPROX. 5 HOURS) (B)

After breakfast, we begin our final stretch, heading southeast along Highway 2 toward the tranquil town of Phu Tho. Riding alongside the Red River, we trace its gentle curves as it nears its confluence with the Black River - just before both rivers merge and flow onward to Hanoi. This part of the journey takes us through the fertile lowlands of Vietnam’s delta plains, where expansive rice paddies and scenes of vibrant village life offer a glimpse into the country’s agricultural soul.

Crossing the Black River by bridge, we make our way through Son Tay, then join the main highway leading back to Hanoi. Our aim is to reach the capital before the late afternoon rush (around 4 PM), allowing us to navigate the city with ease and bring our remarkable Northern Vietnam adventure to a smooth and satisfying 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

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.