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 Vu Linh
  • Day 7: Vu Linh 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 8:30–9:00 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 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

Hot spring time!

Summary

  • Distance: 130 km
  • Meals: B, L, D
  • Accommodation: Homestay

Day 4: 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.
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.

Mun 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.
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.

Sapa-The misty town

Summary:

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

Day 6: Sapa to Vu Linh

Departing from Sapa, we ride along the winding National Road 4D to Lao Cai city, then detour into hidden Hmong villages. After about 35 km, we stop at a unique riverside café with a view of China across the Nam Thi River.

Vietnam-China border checkpoint

Following National Road 70, we reach Pho Rang for a light lunch, then continue to Luc Yen – a gemstone hub famous for ruby mining. From there, a scenic backroad leads us through lush rice fields to Vu Linh, near 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!

Tradition art performance by local Dao ladies

Summary:

  • Distance: 220 km
  • Meals: B, L, D
  • Accommodation: Homestay

Day 7: Vu Linh back to Hanoi

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.

Ha noi to Vu Linh (Thac Ba lake)

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

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!.