Vietnam Unleashed: 11-Day Big Bike Adventure Through Northern Vietnam

Your big bike adventure begins as we leave the hustle of Hanoi and head west on a winding road toward the tranquil Mai Chau Valley. The first leg offers smooth asphalt, perfect for a comfortable cruise through the countryside. Along the way, you’ll pass Hoa Binh Lake — a vast stretch of emerald water dotted with limestone islets and surrounded by dense forests. The air turns fresher as the mountains rise ahead, and long, flowing curves give you a chance to feel the steady rhythm of your Tenere or Transalp. Descending into Mai Chau, the valley opens up with terraced rice fields, bamboo groves, and traditional Thai stilt houses resting peacefully at the foot of the mountains. After a local dinner, enjoy a traditional Thai dance performance. Overnight in a Thai stilt house.

After breakfast, we set off along the Da River, one of Vietnam’s most scenic riverside routes. The road glides smoothly beside the shimmering water, with towering cliffs on one side and the calm river stretching endlessly on the other. Small ethnic hamlets appear along the way, offering a glimpse into the simple lifestyle of Muong and Thai communities. A short local ferry ride across the river adds to the experience, as fishermen and traders go about their day on small wooden boats. The combination of long sweeping corners and scenic tranquility makes this route perfect for big-bike riders seeking both comfort and immersion. Continue toward Phu Yen, a quiet mountain town surrounded by rice paddies and forested hills. Overnight at a hotel in Phu Yen.

Today’s journey takes you through some of the most peaceful countryside in northern Vietnam. The asphalt road gently meanders through terraced fields, tea plantations, and small rural villages. Each turn reveals new shades of green, with farmers tending their fields, water buffalo grazing lazily, and kids waving as you pass. Stop for local coffee and enjoy the rhythm of mountain life before continuing to Nghia Lo — a charming valley town and cultural hub of the Thai and Muong ethnic groups. Here, the roads are open and easy, ideal for enjoying the natural balance of power and precision your big bike offers. In the evening, explore the local market and try the region’s specialties like sticky rice or grilled fish. Overnight at a local hotel.

A day of spectacular mountain riding awaits. Depart Nghia Lo and head toward Khau Pha Pass, one of Vietnam’s most famous mountain passes. The road climbs steadily through pine-covered hills before revealing the stunning Mu Cang Chai terraces — golden waves of rice fields cascading down the mountain slopes. It’s one of Asia’s most photogenic landscapes and a dream to ride through on a smooth, curving highway. Continue toward Than Uyen, passing through highland valleys lined with tea plantations and rivers sparkling in the sunlight. In the afternoon, ascend toward Sapa along the scenic O Quy Ho Pass, surrounded by clouds and towering peaks. The cool mountain air and panoramic views make it an unforgettable ride. Overnight in Sapa.

Enjoy a leisurely day to explore Sapa, Vietnam’s highland gem. You may choose to ride lightly around town or take the cable car to Fansipan Peak — the highest point in Indochina at 3,143 meters. The panoramic views from the summit are breathtaking, with clouds drifting below and the Hoang Lien Son Range stretching into the horizon. In the afternoon, consider visiting Cat Cat or Ta Van villages, where ethnic Hmong and Giay people live among terraced valleys and wooden houses. Learn about their weaving traditions, farming techniques, and local cuisine. The crisp air and gentle pace make this a refreshing day for both rider and machine. Overnight in Sapa.

After breakfast, descend from Sapa’s highlands, riding through cool mist and lush valleys toward Ha Giang. The journey offers a blend of long highway stretches and scenic mountain routes, passing waterfalls, tea hills, and quiet rural villages. Stop for lunch in Pho Rang or Viet Quang, enjoying fresh local dishes along the way. This leg highlights the strength and comfort of your big bike — smooth, powerful, and steady over every turn. Arrive in Ha Giang town by late afternoon, where the Tay and Dao ethnic groups fill the streets with color and charm. Overnight in Ha Giang.

Today marks the entrance to the UNESCO-recognized Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, one of Vietnam’s geological wonders. After obtaining the travel permit, start the scenic ascent through limestone mountains and winding valleys. The road is fully paved but thrilling, with countless photo stops offering views over endless peaks and deep gorges. Ride through Yen Minh Pine Forest, visit Pho Bang ancient town, and stop at the historic Hmong King’s Palace, showcasing a blend of European and Chinese architecture. The big bikes perform beautifully on these curving highland roads, combining comfort with adventure. Arrive in Dong Van’s old quarter, a quaint town surrounded by stone cliffs. Overnight in Dong Van.

The highlight of the trip — Ma Pi Leng Pass. Known as one of the most stunning roads in the world, it carves through towering mountains with the Nho Que River glimmering hundreds of meters below. The paved road, full of sweeping turns and elevation changes, is a pure joy for big-bike riders. Every stop along the pass offers breathtaking photography opportunities. After lunch in Meo Vac, continue your descent into Bao Lac. The scenery transitions from rocky mountains to green valleys, where ethnic minorities like the Hmong, Tay, and San Chi live in traditional stilt houses. Overnight in Bao Lac.

Ride through tranquil countryside and limestone valleys as you head east toward Ban Gioc, Vietnam’s most majestic waterfall. Along the way, visit a Lolo ethnic village, where colorful traditional clothes and preserved customs give a glimpse into ancient mountain culture. As you approach Ban Gioc, the landscape opens into rolling hills and rivers flowing between dramatic cliffs. The smooth tarmac and open stretches are perfect for a long, relaxing ride. End the day near the waterfall, where the sound of cascading water fills the air. Overnight at a resort near Ban Gioc.

Start the day with a visit to Ban Gioc Waterfall, located on the Vietnam-China border. It’s one of the largest and most beautiful transnational waterfalls in the world. Nearby, explore Nguom Ngao Cave — a natural masterpiece of stalactites and stalagmites shaped over millions of years. Continue your journey through peaceful valleys, bamboo forests, and small farming villages toward Ba Be Lake. The road is wide and scenic, ideal for an easy, enjoyable ride. In the afternoon, arrive at Ba Be National Park, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and lush greenery. Overnight at a lakeside homestay.

The final stretch of your journey takes you back to Hanoi via well-paved roads winding through hills, palm forests, and riverside villages. Stop for coffee along the way, soaking in the last views of Vietnam’s northern beauty. The smooth, flowing highway makes the final leg relaxed and rewarding — a perfect way to close out an unforgettable 11-day big-bike journey. Arrive in Hanoi by late afternoon.