Uncharted Vietnam: 11-Day Motorbike Expedition - Northwest & Central Wonders

Leaving behind Mai Chau, our Vietnam motorbike journey presses on. We navigate a small dirt road, veering west along the Da River. En route, we encounter caves of historical importance, holding relics like stone axes and artifacts. Crossing the lake via a local ferry, the landscape transitions between awe-inspiring mountains and the flowing river. A quick pause in Bac Yen for refreshments precedes our northern route, tracing the untamed river bank.

Our day concludes in Son La, where we unwind in cozy hotel lodging

Post-breakfast, we kick off our day by cruising along Highway 6 towards Tuan Giao. The awe-inspiring scenery continues to unfold, punctuated by a stop at the Black Thai village after traversing the enigmatic Dark Cave. Our lunch halt awaits in Tuan Giao before we embark on the 279 Road towards Than Uyen. The ride along this winding path, cutting through lush forests and stunning rice terraces, is an exhilarating experience. We take a brief pause at Pa Uon Bridge, soaking in the breathtaking surroundings. Our day concludes in Than Uyen, where we rest in comfortable hotel accommodations

We embark on a captivating journey along a winding road that winds through the Hoan Lien Son mountain range, leading us through a valley adorned with tea plantations and picturesque rice fields, gracefully tracing the Nam Ma River's path. Dotted along the foothills are tribal villages of Dzao, H'mong, and Tay, while the Hoang Sien Son Mountains reveal the breathtaking O Ouy Ho Pass, offering heart-stopping panoramic vistas from over 2,000 meters altitude. By afternoon, we arrive in Sapa, where a comfortable hotel stay awaits, allowing us to rest and recharge for the adventures of tomorrow

After breakfast, our Vietnam motorbike journey resumes as we venture toward the heart of Lao Cai province, strategically nestled along the border with China. This bustling hub of North's trade beckons us to pause and absorb its significance. Continuing onwards, we steer our bikes to Bac Ha, renowned for its vibrant 100-year-old market, where Dzao, Flower H'Mong, and other mountainous ethnic groups gather. The market's lively scenes unfold only on Sunday mornings.

Our path leads us along a scenic small trail, ascending to Ximan, where the journey proceeds through lush green forests. A pause at Lao Chai village atop the mountaintops reveals an enchanting view of the Chay River, seemingly soaring into the sky and through the clouds. This region boasts captivating tracks that intertwine with breathtaking natural landscapes, justifying its reputation as one of Vietnam's most beautiful spots.

As the day fades into night, we find lodging in a comfortable hotel, ready to rest and recharge for the adventures that await tomorrow."

After a hearty breakfast at a nearby local restaurant, we immerse ourselves in the vibrant local scene. Exploring the market, snapping up souvenirs, and mingling with the Dzao, Flower H'mong, Nung, and other ethnic minorities, we create lasting memories. Today, our riding skills are put to the test as we navigate challenging mountain passes, honing our abilities.

Come lunchtime, we find ourselves in Tan Quang, refueling for the journey ahead. The final 50 kilometers to Ha Giang are a more relaxed and easy ride, as we rejoin Road 2. If time permits, a dip in the soothing hot springs of Thanh Ha might be on the agenda, allowing for some well-deserved relaxation.

As the day draws to a close, a comfortable hotel stay awaits in Ha Giang, where we rest and rejuvenate for the experiences yet to unfold

Our journey begins with obtaining a visit permit from the Ha Giang immigration office, a necessary step to explore the captivating regions of Quang Ba, Dong Van, and Yen Minh. These areas boast stunning natural landscapes and unspoiled vistas. Resilient locals here work tirelessly on rocky farmlands, finding ingenious solutions to life's challenges and displaying a warm and friendly nature.

During our expedition, a quick pause at an information coffee shop offers a refreshing break. Climbing a set of stairs rewards us with idyllic views of Quang Ba's surroundings. Lunch in Yen Minh energizes us for further exploration.

Next on our itinerary is Pho Bang, a village with a history spanning hundreds of years. Its multi-storey clay brick houses crowned with tiled roofs stand as a testament to its heritage. While in Quang Ba, we have the opportunity to visit the Vuong Palace, once the residence of the high-ranking H'mong family during the French colonial era. This architectural gem beautifully blends European and Chinese influences, captivating visitors with its charm.

Our journey concludes in Dong Van, where we settle in for the night at a comfortable hotel, ready to rest and recharge for the continued adventure

oday's adventure takes us across the Ma Pi Leng Pass, an awe-inspiring route offering breathtaking views of the Nho Que River. Descending to Meo Vac, we traverse the fabled high mountainous realms of Ha Giang before arriving in Bao Lac, our destination for the day. Bao Lac stands as a vibrant ethnic crossroad, uniting the diverse groups of Northeast Vietnam. The Sunday market is a lively convergence for ethnic communities from both sides of the borders. Our day concludes with a comfortable hotel stay in Bao Lac, as we prepare for more discoveries ahead.

On this leg of our journey, we conquer numerous passes and once again put our riding skills to the test on the meandering road. However, we're free to stop as often as needed to appreciate the scenery. In total, the ride will span about 8 hours, accounting for breaks for food and drinks. As night falls, we find ourselves in a Tay community, where we'll spend the night in traditional stilt houses, immersing ourselves in the local way of life

As we are still in Bac Ngoi, it is a fabulous opportunity to take the fabulous 2-hour boat cruise and sail through the lake. Then, we stop at the Dau Dang waterfall, to have lunch and, for those that wish, swim! There is also a primary school and the village located down the waterfall that we could also visit, before we get back to Ba Be Lake and head to the An Ma temple. Finally, we trek through the Ba Be rainforests and get the most amazing photos from on top of a nearby tower. We spend the night in local stilt houses.

Our final day of exploration dawns, signaling our return journey to Hanoi. An exciting ride awaits, guiding us along the west side of Ba Be Lake as we venture south. En route, we traverse Thai Nguyen, a city celebrated for its premium tea production. Our journey pauses at Tow, where the captivating Vietnamese Ethnic Group Museum of Cultures awaits. Here, colorful exhibitions shed light on the lifestyles of the 50 tribes that call Vietnam's hills home.

Anticipate reaching Hanoi around 5:00 P.M., marking the conclusion of this unforgettable tour. As the adventure draws to a close, relish the memories and experiences garnered on this remarkable journey through Vietnam's diverse landscapes and cultures.