Amazing North Vietnam Motorbike Adventure 8 days

Upon arrival at Noi Bai Airport, you will be warmly greeted and transferred to your hotel in Hanoi. The vibrant energy of the capital city will immediately capture your attention as you make your way through its lively streets. After checking into your hotel, you will have the rest of the day free to relax and adjust to the local time zone.

You may choose to explore Hanoi at your own pace or join optional tours below. Hanoi Insight Vespa Tours and the Hanoi Foodie Tour by Motorbike offer unique ways to experience the city’s famous sights and delicious street food. Take this opportunity to enjoy the local atmosphere before you rest for your exciting adventure ahead.

Distance & Est. time: 160 km

Morning

On the morning of Day 2, you will start your adventure by leaving Hanoi. Around 09:00, you will ride out of the bustling city, taking the peaceful dyke roads to avoid the heavy traffic. The ride to Mai Chau will offer a gentle escape into the countryside, where you’ll be surrounded by wide, open spaces and vibrant green fields.

As you head west, you will pass through Highway 6, a route lined with beautiful farming landscapes. You might feel amazed by the endless paddy fields, split by tall trees and occasional limestone karst formations. This part of the journey will give you a real taste of Vietnam’s rural beauty, offering both quiet reflection and picturesque views.

Afternoon

After a light lunch in Hoa Binh Province, you will continue your ride toward Thung Khe Pass, one of the most scenic mountain routes in northern Vietnam. The sharp curves and steep climbs will be exciting, and once you reach the top, the view will take your breath away. From here, you will descend into the lush valley of Mai Chau, where your adventure will take on a new, more tranquil pace.

In the evening, you will experience the local Thai culture with a special performance. You can join in the dance and enjoy traditional rice wine with the locals. Finally, you will spend the night in a cozy house on stilts, making for a truly memorable stay in the heart of Mai Chau!

Distance & Est. time: 180 km

Morning

On Day 3, after taking a walk around the village, your journey begins with a morning ride to Hang Kia Paco, a picturesque valley in Hoa Binh Province.

As you make your way through winding mountain roads, the fresh air and serene landscapes will immediately capture your attention. You will pass by lush forests and enjoy breathtaking views of towering hills surrounding the valley.

Once you arrive in Hang Kia Paco, you will have the chance to interact with the local H’Mong community. Their traditional way of life will offer you a unique insight into their culture.

Continuing your ride, you will head northwest from Mai Chau through a land of scenic beauty. You might be amazed by the sight of lush tea plantations, rolling hills, and remote ethnic villages. This route will feel like a journey through time, where you can enjoy the peaceful countryside and the charm of rural Vietnam.

Your final destination for the day is Ta Xua, a stunning mountainous area known for its “Sea of Clouds” phenomenon. The incredible landscapes and fresh mountain air will make this part of your trip unforgettable. You will soon realize why nature lovers and trekkers cherish this magical place.

Distance & Est. time: 190 km

On Day 4, you will start your ride early, heading towards the famous Dinosaur Spine Road. This scenic route offers incredible panoramic views of surrounding mountains and deep valleys. You will feel a sense of freedom as you ride through this vast, beautiful landscape, with countless photo opportunities along the way.

After breakfast, the off-road journey will then take you toward Mu Cang Chai, an area that is famous for its magnificent terraced rice fields. As you ride through the valleys, the sight of the fields stretching over the hillsides will be mesmerizing. You will be surrounded by nature’s tranquility, and the peaceful atmosphere will make this ride unforgettable.

Once you arrive in Mu Cang Chai, you will quickly understand why it is considered one of Asia’s most stunning destinations. The terraced rice fields here, set against the backdrop of the Hoang Lien Son mountains, will take your breath away. You will feel like you are in a postcard, surrounded by some of the most picturesque views in the world.

You will have the chance to explore local villages and interact with the friendly ethnic communities. You will learn about their unique customs and traditions, deepening your connection to the culture. You will spend your day in a homestay and enjoy the beauty of the night theme here.

Distance & Est. time: 160 km

This morning, embark on an exciting motorbike journey towards the magnificent Fansipan Mountain range, passing through Than Uyen town in Lai Chau. Riders can choose between the main route or a more challenging back road that features multiple river crossings, adding an adventurous twist to the trip. The towering mountain range dominates the landscape, creating a breathtaking backdrop as the road winds through the rugged terrain.

The route then leads to Binh Lu, where a spectacular ascent begins toward Tram Ton Pass, the highest road pass in Vietnam at over 2,000 meters. As the road climbs higher, panoramic views unfold, stretching across the majestic mountain range. Upon crossing into Lao Cai Province, the scenery becomes even more dramatic, with endless rolling peaks and deep valleys before the route descends into the stunning Sa Pa Valley.

Sa Pa, located in northwestern Vietnam near the Chinese border, lies 350 km from Hanoi and is famous for its rugged beauty and vibrant cultural diversity. The French once considered it the Summer Capital of Northern Vietnam, and today, it remains a beloved retreat for travelers. With its misty mountains, lush rice terraces, and cool climate, Sa Pa attracts visitors year-round, particularly honeymooners seeking a romantic getaway amidst nature.

Distance & Est. time: 220 km

On Day 6, you will head towards Lao Cai City, with stunning mountain roads leading the way. Our first stop will be a peaceful coffee break by the Nam Thi River, marking the border between Vietnam and China. We will enjoy a refreshing coffee while taking in the view of China just across the river.

After that, you will continue along Road 70, before turning via Luc Yen on Road 152. We will pass through lush palm forests and towering mountains, offering expansive views of deep valleys and vibrant greenery. Eventually, we will reach Vu Linh Village, home to the Dzao ethnic minority, located beside the vast Thac Ba Reservoir, Vietnam’s largest man-made lake.

Once we arrive at Thac Ba, we will be amazed by the crystal-clear water reflecting the surrounding ancient forests. The thousands of islands and hills will seem like a peaceful paradise, and we might stop to explore caves or take a boat ride to see more of the area.

After lunch, we will discover the tranquil lifestyle of the villagers, navigating the lake by boat and living amidst this serene landscape.

Distance & Est. time: 180 km

On Day 7, you will start your ride heading southeast on Highway 2, making your way towards the peaceful town of Phu Tho. This route will bring you through the lush landscapes of the Red River along the dyke, where the river's edge will offer serene views. You will feel a sense of calm as you ride through this quiet stretch of countryside.

As you continue, you will enter the heart of the lowlands and pass through the northern region's main agricultural areas. This is where you will notice the rhythm of daily life unfolding, with farmers busy in the fields, especially during harvest season. You might feel the vibrant energy of the land as it comes alive with activity.

Crossing the Black River, you will make your way through Son Tay before heading back towards Hanoi. The final stretch will bring you closer to the bustling city, but you will aim to return before rush hour. By 16:00, the traffic may start to get heavier, but you will arrive in Hanoi, marking the end of your off-road adventure through Vietnam.

After having breakfast at the hotel, enjoy your final morning in Vietnam at leisure. Depending on your flight time, you may have a chance to explore the nearby Old Quarter or relax at your hotel. At the scheduled time, transfer to Noi Bai International Airport for your departure flight.