We kick off the tour around 9:00 AM. After about 40 minutes navigating Hanoi’s busy streets, we break free onto Highway No. 8. From here, the traffic eases up, and the countryside starts to unfold. We then roll along scenic backroads through rice fields into Hoa Binh province, where the landscape shifts-mountains rise, the air gets cleaner, and dramatic karst formations start lining the horizon.
After lunch, we’ll hit some challenging offroad sections then cruise along Road 450, a lesser-known stretch that rewards us with a stunning overlook of Hoa Binh Lake-one of Vietnam’s largest man-made lakes.

We spend the night in Mai Chau-a quiet valley where stilt houses of the White Thai people sit among emerald paddy fields. Surrounded by misty green mountains, this place is a breath of fresh air after a full day’s ride. Tonight, we enjoy a warm local dinner, stay in a family-run homestay, and soak in a bit of ethnic Thai culture.

Summary
Distance: 160–190 km
Meals: L, D
Accommodation: Homestay

After bidding farewell to our friendly homestay hosts, we fire up the engines and head toward the forgotten Old Road No. 6, a historic route that once served as a vital artery through Northwest Vietnam. Nowadays, it lies quietly beneath the hills, winding past remote ethnic villages and tucked-away farms.

As we approach Moc Chau district, the terrain opens up to green plateaus and rolling farmland. We stop for lunch here, then brace ourselves for the afternoon’s thrill — a series of offroad sections winding through the rugged mountains and deep into remote farming areas. Eventually, the trail leads us to Van Yen ferry terminal, where we cross the mighty Da River by boat. A short but scenic ride gives us a chance to cool off and soak in the views before the final stretch. The last leg of the ride hugs the river, offering a peaceful cruise into Phu Yen, a quiet highland town where we kick back and rest up at a local hotel.

Summary
Distance: 170 km
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Hotel

Mu Cang Chai to Sapa
We kick off the day with some backroad exploration and real off-road challenges through remote mountains and ethnic Hmong villages. This route offers a glimpse into the daily lives of local people, shaped by rugged terrain and tough weather.

After lunch in Than Uyen, we journey past tea plantations and rolling rice fields before ascending O Quy Ho Pass – one of the longest and most scenic mountain passes in Vietnam. With mist rising and cooler air setting in, we enter the misty haven of Sapa.

Located at 1,600 meters altitude, Sapa is known for its cool climate, majestic landscapes, and diverse tribal cultures including Hmong, Dao, Tay, and others. It’s a larger town with restaurants, bars, and shops – a good chance to unwind. We spend the night in a comfortable hotel.

Summary:
Distance: 150-170km
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Hotel

We have two options for the distance today, a short ride of 100 kilometers and a longer one of 180 kilometers. With the first option, you have more time to relax in Sapa or do a cable car trip to Fansipan mountain-the highest mountain of Vietnam.

We start the day with a quick visit to the Vietnam–China border gate in Lao Cai City, where you can actually catch a glimpse of China just across a river.
In the afternoon, the ride takes us along a stunning stretch of road hugging the Vietnam–China border, through Pha Long and Si Ma Cai. Get ready for jaw-dropping scenery where towering cliffs stand proud beside dramatic gorges that plunge into the earth.
Tonight, we settle in at Bac Ha. If luck’s on our side and we’re here on a weekend, you’ll get to experience the vibrant Bac Ha Market — a one-of-a-kind gathering where thousands of people from remote highland villages come together to trade goods, reconnect with friends or even look for a life partner.

Summary:
Distance: 100-170 km
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Hotel or homestay

Saying goodbye to the beautiful land of Bac Ha, we continue our journey heading toward the Northeast. The day begins with winding mountain passes offering majestic views, followed by an exciting off-road track that takes us through Hmong villages.

We stop for a coffee break in the small town of Coc Pai, then take a stroll through the local market to get a glimpse of the daily shopping and lifestyle of the local people.
Continuing along the Chay River, we reach Vinh Quang town and stop there for lunch. In the afternoon, we have the option of taking on another challenging off-road route or choosing a gentler backroad to reach Ha Giang city.
Ha Giang is a small mountain city where tourism is gradually developing. Despite the growing number of visitors, the city still retains a peaceful, quiet charm without too much hustle and bustle.

Summary:
Distance: 170 km
Meals: L, D
Accommodation: Hotel or Homestay

This is where things get next-level. After a hearty breakfast, we take on the legendary Ha Giang loop, with stunning panoramic views at every turn. Offroad and backroad options are available depending on the group. We visit remote villages, wave at smiling kids, and (optionally) stop at a local school to share some small donations.

The iconic Tham Ma Pass gives us a dramatic photo op before we reach the Vuong Family Palace, a historic H’mong mansion mixing French, Chinese, and local architecture.

We spend the night in Dong Van. Located in the far north of Vietnam, Dong Van-also known as the Karst Plateau UNESCO Global Geopark, is famous for its spectacular and unique landscape having high mountains and deep canyons.
Dong Van is also home to 17 ethnic groups which creates the unique and rich cultural heritage of the place. This town is a charming old town with ancient clay brick houses, and the most touristy stop of the Northeast route, so feel free to explore the local bars or shops.
Summary
Distance: 150km
Meals: L, D
Accommodation: Hotel

We begin riding at 9 o’clock today, head to Lung Cu flag pole, a prominent landmark located in Lung CuCommune of Dong Van. The flag tower was built to mark Vietnam’s sovereignty and border protection efforts in the northernmost region. We take a few steps to the top of the pole to enjoy a stunning view and take some good pictures.

From the Flag pole we head back to Dong Van, ride on a backroad where we can see China land over a majestic cliff then head to Ma Pi Leng pass – the highlight of the day. Ma Pi Leng pass is a breathtaking mountain pass located between Dong Van and Meo Vac Renowned for its awe-inspiring beauty. We stop for a nice coffee at the middle of the pass to immerse ourselves in stunning landscapes of Ma Pi Leng and experience its unique geological features.

We stop for lunch in Meo Vac town, from here we take a challenging hidden track where we have an eye-opening experience which is crossing the vibrant Nho Que river on a bamboo raft.

We overnight in Bao Lac, a peaceful town of Cao Bang province.

Summary:
Distance: 130 km
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Hotel

From Bao Lac to Cao Bang City, the main road isn’t too long — which gives us a good excuse to explore some hidden routes along the way. We might kick off the day with a mellow backroad through lush bamboo forests, or dive straight into an off-road trail to wake up our senses.
Next up is the legendary Me Pia Pass, famous for its dizzying 13 switchbacks. We’ll cross over to the other side and stop for lunch at the foot of the pass.

After lunch, we follow National Highway 4A toward Cao Bang City. The ride takes us through peaceful villages and stunning mountain scenery-pure Northern Vietnam magic. If we’re still feeling the thrill, there’s one more off-road stretch we can conquer before calling it a day.

Tonight, we stay in a comfortable hotel in Cao Bang City. While it’s not big or busy, its unique blend of rugged highlands and quiet urban life makes it a surprisingly charming stop on our journey.

Summary:
Distance: 130 km
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Hotel

We depart from Cao Bằng City around 9 AM, leaving the main road behind to wander through small villages and fields of arrowroot grown by the local people. Returning to National Highway 3, we continue our journey, following a trail that leads us to the famous ‘God’s Eye Mountain’ (Núi Mắt Thần). This is a stunning grassland area where we can freely enjoy riding, take incredible photos, and capture unforgettable footage.

After a lunch stop in the town of Trùng Khánh, we head to the highlight of the day: Bản Giốc Waterfall. Situated right on the border between Vietnam and China, Bản Giốc is one of the most magnificent waterfalls in Vietnam. We’ll take a short boat ride to get up close and truly feel the power and grandeur of the water cascading from above.

In the afternoon, if time permits, we may visit Ngườm Ngao Cave, a beautiful natural wonder nearby and then head back to Cao Bang city.

Summary:
Distance: 160 km
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Hotel

After breakfast at around 8:00 or 8:30 AM, we set off heading southeast along National Highway 3, passing through Tài Hồ Sìn Pass, Cao Bắc Pass, and Gió Pass—each offering stunning and unforgettable scenery.

Following lunch, we turn onto Highway 279, passing through the small town of Chợ Rã, before arriving at the destination.
And here comes the highlight of the day, a much-anticipated boat trip awaits us on the peaceful water of Ba Be lake-the largest natural lake in Vietnam, we’ll kick back with a few cold beers, surrounded by the majestic landscape with vibrant water, epic mountain and forest. Tonight, we’ll stay at a cozy homestay hosted by a local Tày ethnic family, nestled near the lake. To close the evening, we’ll enjoy a charming traditional performance by local Tay ladies-a beautiful cultural touch to cap off an incredible day.

Summary:
Distance: 130 km
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Hotel

From Ba Be, we can kick off the day with an off-road section, then continue the journey along Route 254. We switch to Route 287 and stop for lunch in Chiem Hoa.

In the afternoon, we take on another off-road track before following National Road 2 and Route 170 back toward Vu Linh, Thac Ba Lake.
We stay in a welcoming homestay hosted by the local Dao ethnic minority. After a rest, we board a small boat for a relaxing sunset cruise on Thac Ba Lake – one of Vietnam’s largest man-made lakes. Sip a cold beer, admire the serene landscape, and dive in for a refreshing swim.

End the evening with a hearty dinner and warm hospitality – be ready, the locals here are known for their strong rice wine and unforgettable toasts!

Summary:
Distance: 160 km
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Homestay

We say goodbye to our wonderful hosts and set off on our final ride. For those still craving a bit more action, we can sneak in one last off-road trail to cap off the adventure.

Cruising through rural backroads of Phu Tho Province, we pass peaceful villages and scenic farmlands before reaching Son Tay. Here, we enjoy a relaxing lunch near the iconic Red River.
The final stretch leads us back to bustling Hanoi, ending this unforgettable 5-day Vietnam motorbike adventure. With dirt-covered gear, full memory cards, and wide grins, we wrap up the journey of a lifetime.

Summary:
Distance: 160 km
Meals: B, L
Accommodation: N/A
This itinerary is just a short outline, our motorbike tours are all about flexibility, with plenty of room for detours and unexpected discoveries. Your guide will tailor the routes and stops to match your riding skills and travel vibe, making sure every mile feels just right. Don’t hesitate to speak up and customize your ride daily. We’re here to bring you the ultimate motorcycle adventure in Vietnam.