Summary schedule

  • Day 1: Hanoi to Mai Chau
  • Day 2: Mai Chau to Phu Yen (Son La)
  • Day 3: Phu Yen to Tram Tau
  • Day 4: Tram Tau to Mu Cang Chai
  • Day 5: Mu Cang Chai to Sapa
  • Day 6: Sapa to Bac Ha
  • Day 7: Bac Ha to Ha Giang
  • Day 8: Ha giang to Dong Van
  • Day 9: Dong Van to Cao Bang
  • Day 10: Cao Bang to Ban Gioc Waterfall
  • Day 11: Cao Bang to Ba Be
  • Day 12: Ba Be back to Hanoi

Day 1: Hanoi to Mai Chau

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.

Hanoi to Mai Chau

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

Day 2: Mai Chau to Phu Yen (Son La)

We hit the road between 8:00–8:30 AM. But before we saddle up, feel free to take a short walk around the village — the cool morning air and rice fields are a perfect start to the day.
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.

Mai Chau to Phu Yên

As we approach Moc Chau district, the terrain opens up to green plateaus and rolling farmland. We stop for lunch in 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

Day 3: Phu Yen to Tram Tau

From the quiet town of Phù Yên, our journey continues toward Tà Xùa, an emerging gem for those with a spirit of discovery. With its cool climate and untouched landscapes, Tà Xùa has become famous for a unique natural feature: ‘The Dinosaur Backbone of Tà Xùa’—a short but challenging off-road trail that rewards the brave with a one-of-a-kind panoramic view at its peak. Leaving Tà Xùa behind, we ride northward along Road 114, a route filled with thrilling twists and turns and surrounded by breathtaking scenery—making every kilometer a joy to conquer.

Phu Yên to Tram Tau

Tonight, we’ll stay in Trạm Tấu, a small mountain town that still preserves the raw, untouched beauty of Vietnam’s Northwest highlands. Surrounded by terraced rice fields, majestic mountains, and winding rivers—Trạm Tấu is also known for its natural hot springs, a perfect way to relax after a long day on the road. Though it’s not a major tourist hotspot, this hidden gem is well worth the visit, especially for rugged bikers like us who appreciate the charm of the lesser-traveled path.

The Ta Xua “Dinosaur Backbone”

* Summary:
Distance: 120 km
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Homestay

Day 4: Tram Tau to Mu Cang Chai

Tram Tau to Mu Cang Chai

The day kicks off with a scenic, winding route along the Ngoi Thia River — a beautiful stretch to ease into the ride. Backroads and off-road trails are waiting just ahead, ready to spice things up. We’ll stop for a quick coffee in the lovely town of Nghia Lo, then keep heading north toward Tu Le commune, where new adventures await. Tu Le is renowned for its premium sticky rice and the famous Vietnamese green rice delicacy “cốm.” If you’re lucky to be here in early autumn, you might get to witness locals making fresh cốm – a rare and authentic cultural moment.

Tram Tau to Mu Cang Chai

From Tu Le, it’s time to climb the legendary Khau Pha Pass – one of the top 4 most breathtaking mountain passes in Northern Vietnam. Spanning 30 km of thrilling curves and panoramic views at 1,500 meters above sea level, this ride is a dream for adventure motorcyclists.

Coffee stop at Khau Pha pass


We arrive in Mu Cang Chai, a must-visit destination known for its magnificent terraced rice fields and rich ethnic culture. Overnight in a cozy local homestay.

* Summary:
Distance: 150km
Meals:B, L, D
Accommodation: Homestay

Day 5: 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.

Mu Cang Chai to Sapa

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.

The lovely town 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: 170 km
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation:Hotel

Day 6: Sapa to Bac Ha

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.

Sapa to Bac Ha

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.

Bac Ha Periodical Market

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

Day 7: Bac Ha to Ha Giang

We kick off the day with some epic backroads and off-road tracks, loaded with killer viewpoints for photos. After warming up on the dirt, we hit the main road and roll into Coc Pai town—marking our transition from the Northwest to the wild Northeast of Vietnam.

From Coc Pai, we ride along the Chay River toward Hoang Su Phi, where we’ll stop for a well-earned local lunch. In the afternoon, it’s back to the dirt as we tackle a few more off-road sections before cruising onto Highway 2. By late afternoon, our crew arrives in Ha Giang City, entering the mighty land of Northeast Vietnam and the legendary Ha Giang Loop.

Ha Giang province is one of the last true frontiers for motorbike adventurers in Vietnam. Rugged, raw, and remote, this land is carved with dramatic karst peaks, twisting mountain passes, misty valleys. It is also home to a rich mix of ethnic minorities including Hmong, Tay, Dao,…all living in harmony with the mountains, holding tight to their traditions, language, and unique way of life.

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

Day 8: Ha giang to Dong Van

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 mighty Tham Ma slope

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.

Ha Giang to Dong Van

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:140 km
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Hotel

Day 9: Dong Van to Cao Bang

We’ll kick off the day with an early breakfast and hit the road around 8 AM — today’s a big one. From Dong Van, we warm up on a short backroad section where, on a clear day, you can spot the Vietnam–China border just a few kilometers away. The highlight of the morning comes as we ride to the mighty Ma Pi Leng Pass, one off the most beautiful passes in Vietnam.

Dong Van to Cao Bang

From there, we ride toward Khau Vai commune in Meo Vac district, where an unforgettable moment awaits: crossing the all green Nho Que River on a  bamboo raft. After wrapping up this wild offroad section, we’ll ride for about another hour and stop for a well-earned lunch in Bao Lac town.

River crossing on a bamboo raft

After lunch, we’ll continue the journey over the famous Mẻ Pja Pass, known for its 13 unique switchbacks. In the late afternoon, the route will take us through charming small villages of the Tày ethnic minority. Our destination for today will be the city of Cao Bằng, 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: 200 km
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Hotel

Day 10: Cao Bang to Ban Gioc Waterfall

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.

The God’s Eye Mountain

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

Day 11: Cao Bang to Ba Be

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.

Relaxing in Babe lake

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.

Art performance by locals in Ba Be

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

Day 12: Ba Be back to Hanoi

We say goodbye to our homestay and the peaceful waters of Ba Be Lake, then hit the road back to Hanoi. If you feel like you’ve had your fill of challenges over the past few days, we’ll take it easy with a more relaxed route.
But if your body’s still craving that shot of adrenaline, don’t worry — we’ve got one last offroad trail lined up for this morning. A little more dirt and mud won’t hurt!

Ba Be back to Hanoi

After lunch in Thai Nguyen, we follow the main road back to Hanoi, wrapping up this unforgettable motorbike adventure through Northern Vietnam.

* Summary:
Distance: 200 km
Meals: B, L
Accommodation: N/A
Note: 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!.