(3Rd–9Th May, 2026) 7 Days To Unveil Northwest Vietnam: A Motorbike Journey Through Mountains & Hidden Valleys

Duration: 7 days

Destination:

Embark on a thrilling 7-day motorbike journey through the heart of Northern Vietnam, starting from the bustling streets of Hanoi. Your ride takes you into the peaceful Mai Chau Valley, where rice paddies and stilt houses paint a serene picture of rural life. Continue across the rolling tea plantations of Moc Chau, glide over the Da River by ferry, and climb into the quiet, welcoming highlands of Phu Yen.

From there, tackle the historic Lung Lo Pass and the sky-hugging curves of Khau Pha Pass before reaching the terraced paradise of Mu Cang Chai. Explore the misty mountains of Sapa, venture to the frontier where Vietnam meets China, and unwind on a relaxing motorboat trip across the emerald waters of Thac Ba Lake. Each day reveals new landscapes, rich ethnic cultures, and unforgettable moments on the open road.

Departure point

Hanoi

From

$1.505

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Itinerary

Day 1: (3Rd May, 2026) HANOI – MAI CHAU (170 KM / APPROX. 4 HOURS) (L/D)

Day 2: (4Th May, 2026) MAI CHAU – PHU YEN (190 KM / APPROX. 6 HOURS) (B/L/D)

Day 3: (5Th May, 2026) PHU YEN – NGHIA LO (130 KM / APPROX. 6 HOURS) (B/L/D)

Day 4: (6Th May, 2026) NGHIA LO – MU CANG CHAI (130 KM / APPROX. 4 HOURS) (B/L/D)

Day 5: (7Th May, 2026) MU CANG CHAI – SAPA (160 KM / APPROX. 5 HOURS) (B/L/D)

Day 6: (8th May, 2026) SAPA – THAC BA LAKE (230 KM / APPROX. 6 HOURS) (B/L/D)

Day 7: (9Th May, 2026) THAC BA – HANOI (180 KM / APPROX. 5 HOURS) (B/L)

Day 1: (3Rd May, 2026) HANOI – MAI CHAU (170 KM / APPROX. 4 HOURS) (L/D)

Departing from Hanoi, we ride north toward the peaceful banks of Hong Son Lake, where jade-colored waters reflect dramatic limestone cliffs and scattered green islets. The route offers gentle curves and sweeping views, making the journey both relaxing and scenic. By mid-afternoon, we arrive in the tranquil valley of Mai Chau.

You’ll have time to wander around the village or simply unwind before dinner. Later, enjoy an evening cultural show featuring traditional dances of the Thai ethnic community. Tonight’s stay is in cozy stilt houses, giving you an authentic glimpse into the daily life and warm hospitality of the local people.

Day 2: (4Th May, 2026) MAI CHAU – PHU YEN (190 KM / APPROX. 6 HOURS) (B/L/D)

After enjoying breakfast at the homestay, we bid farewell to the welcoming locals and begin our ride toward the cool plateau of Moc Chau. This highland region is renowned for its aromatic tea hills, making it an ideal place to taste and purchase some of the area’s best blends. Along the way, you’ll notice the cultural richness of the region, home to groups such as the Green H’mong, Dzao, Thai, and Muong.

Once we finish lunch in Moc Chau, the journey continues on the quiet and scenic Road 43, leading us through pristine, lesser-known landscapes toward the Da River. A peaceful ferry crossing over the Van Yen Reservoir provides a refreshing break before we follow a charming backroad into the mountains. By late afternoon, we roll into Phu Yen, a small town in Son La Province, and check in to a rustic homestay where the genuine warmth of local hospitality rounds off the day.

Day 3: (5Th May, 2026) PHU YEN – NGHIA LO (130 KM / APPROX. 6 HOURS) (B/L/D)

We start the day by tackling the legendary Lung Lo Pass, a rugged route steeped in history. Stretching roughly 15 kilometers, this mountain pass once served as a lifeline for Vietnamese forces during the 1954 Battle of Dien Bien Phu. Its strategic importance made it a prime target, and the French military relentlessly bombed the area in an attempt to cut off the resistance’s supply chain. The scars of that conflict transformed Lung Lo into a powerful symbol of determination and sacrifice.

Now designated as a national heritage site in Yen Bai Province, Lung Lo Pass offers riders a blend of physical challenge and emotional depth. Its wide panoramas, wild mountain landscapes, and profound historical echoes make it one of the most memorable segments of the journey. By late afternoon, we reach our hotel, where a comfortable evening of rest awaits—perfect preparation for the next day’s discoveries.

Day 4: (6Th May, 2026) NGHIA LO – MU CANG CHAI (130 KM / APPROX. 4 HOURS) (B/L/D)

After breakfast, we leave Nghia Lo and make our way toward Mu Cang Chai, following a route that steadily climbs through some of Northern Vietnam’s most dramatic mountain scenery. Gentle hills blanketed in tea plantations line the early part of the journey, before the road rises toward the famed Khau Pha Pass—one of the loftiest and most celebrated passes in the region.

The ride is filled with postcard-worthy views, and we’ll make several stops to appreciate and photograph the incredible landscapes. Along the way, we roll through the picturesque Tu Le Valley, a peaceful countryside area known for its terraced fields and naturally warm mineral springs.

Our final stop for the day is Mu Cang Chai, a designated national heritage site famed for its spectacular rice terraces carved into the mountainsides. This is the homeland of the Hmong people, where traditional clothing, time-honored customs, and striking highland scenery blend into a unique cultural experience. As evening falls, we’ll settle into a cozy homestay hosted by the Thai ethnic community—an inviting space that offers genuine warmth and insight into local life.

Day 5: (7Th May, 2026) MU CANG CHAI – SAPA (160 KM / APPROX. 5 HOURS) (B/L/D)

Leaving Mu Cang Chai behind, we ride toward the magnificent Quy Ho Pass, a route often described as riding through the clouds. Mist drifts across towering peaks while vast valleys open up below, creating one of the most enchanting vistas in Northern Vietnam. The road leads us past lush slopes planted with tea, corn, and rice, with every bend revealing another dramatic slice of rugged mountain beauty. It’s a ride that blends exhilaration with a deep appreciation for the wild landscape around us.

Reaching Sapa—Northern Vietnam’s iconic mountain retreat—we take time to discover the town’s distinctive atmosphere. A highlight is the historic Sapa Stone Church, a relic of the French colonial era that continues to serve as a vibrant gathering place for local ethnic communities. On market days, its surroundings come alive with colorful outfits, lively conversations, and cultural traditions that make Sapa so captivating.

As night falls, we settle into a welcoming homestay, enjoying the cool highland air and the rich cultural diversity that defines this remarkable mountain town.

Day 6: (8th May, 2026) SAPA – THAC BA LAKE (230 KM / APPROX. 6 HOURS) (B/L/D)

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, we begin our descent from Sapa toward Lao Cai City. Before continuing the journey, we pause for a relaxing coffee by the Nam Thi River—the natural boundary separating Vietnam from China. It’s a unique moment to sit back with a warm cup in hand while gazing across the water into another country.

From Lao Cai, we cruise along Road 70 before branching off to the quieter Road 152 toward Luc Yen. The scenery gradually shifts into dense palm forests and peaceful rural landscapes as we make our way to Vu Linh, a serene Dao village resting on the edge of Thac Ba Lake. Spanning over 23,000 hectares with more than 1,300 islands and forested hills, Thac Ba is Vietnam’s largest artificial lake. Its emerald waters mirror ancient woodland and conceal fascinating caves such as Hum, Cau Cuoi, and Bach Xa.

After lunch, we board a boat for a leisurely cruise across the calm surface of the lake. We’ll stop at a small island where you’re welcome to take a refreshing swim. Along the way, you’ll witness scenes of everyday life—villagers rowing wooden boats, wildlife moving through the trees, and the quiet rhythm of nature that defines this remote region. It’s an ideal setting to connect with the Dao community and appreciate their harmonious way of living beside the water.

Day 7: (9Th May, 2026) THAC BA – HANOI (180 KM / APPROX. 5 HOURS) (B/L)

After breakfast, we set off on the final leg of our journey, riding southeast along Highway 2 toward the quiet province of Phu Tho. The road follows the flow of the Red River, curving gently beside it as the water approaches its meeting point with the Black River. This stretch carries us through Vietnam’s fertile delta plains, where endless rice fields and lively village scenes highlight the deep agricultural heritage of the region.

After crossing the Black River via bridge, we continue toward Son Tay before merging onto the main route returning to Hanoi. Our goal is to reach the capital before the late-afternoon traffic builds, ensuring a smooth ride into the city. By the time we roll into Hanoi, we bring to a close an unforgettable adventure through the landscapes and cultures of 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

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.

Book a tour: (3Rd–9Th May, 2026) 7 Days To Unveil Northwest Vietnam: A Motorbike Journey Through Mountains & Hidden Valleys

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