Summary schedule

  • Day1: Hanoi to Moc Chau
  • Day 2: Moc Chau to Quynh Nhai
  • Day 3: Quynh Nhai to Dien Bien Phu
  • Day 4: Dien Bien Phu to Lai Chau
  • Day 5: Lai Chau to Sapa
  • Day 6: Sapa to Ha Giang
  • Day 7: Ha Giang to Dong Van
  • Day 8: Dong Van to Ba Be lake
  • Day 9: Ba Be back to Hanoi

Day1: Hanoi to Moc 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 Moc 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.
From here we follow National Road 6 to Moc Chau, where we spend the night.
Mộc Châu is a charming mountain town known for its plum orchards and vast tea plantations. With its cool and pleasant climate, it’s a perfect destination for nature lovers seeking fresh air and beautiful landscapes.

Summary:
Distance: 200km
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Homestay

Day 2: Moc Chau to Quynh Nhai

We begin the day with a scenic backroad ride through lush tea hills and small villages inhabited by local Thai ethnic people. Returning to the main road, we continue along National Highway 6 toward Son La City, where we can visit the historic Son La Prison.

Moc Chau to Quynh Nhai

After lunch, we take on an exciting offroad section that leads us through a cave and a remote village nestled deep in the countryside.
We end the day in Quỳnh Nhai, a lovely small town beside the picturesque Quỳnh Nhai Lake, a hydroelectric reservoir surrounded by stunning landscapes.

Summary:
Distance: 180km
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Homestay

Day 3: Quynh Nhai to Dien Bien Phu

Leaving the beautiful Quynh Nhai Lake behind, we continue our journey west. The morning backroads take us through lush coffee plantations and peaceful countryside.

Continuing along Highway 6, we tackle a fun off-road section before reaching Pha Din Pass, one of the four most famous mountain passes in Northern Vietnam.

Pha Din Pass is not only known for its spectacular views but also for its important role during the Battle of Dien Bien Phu. During the war, it was a vital route used to transport food, weapons and supplies to the front lines, and was heavily bombed by French aircraft.

In the afternoon, we follow Highway 279 towards Dien Bien Phu, enjoying beautiful mountain scenery and plenty of sweeping corners along the way. Towards the end of the day, we visit one of the historical sites of the Dien Bien Phu battlefield, such as A1 Hill or the De Castries Bunker. The Battle of Dien Bien Phu was one of the most important events in Vietnam’s modern history and marked the end of French colonial rule in Indochina.

A1 Hill Relic in Dien Bien Phu

Tonight, we stay in the historical Dien Bien Phu City.

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

Day 4: Dien Bien Phu to Lai Chau

Leaving Dien Bien Phu behind, we follow Highway 12 north through a landscape of rugged mountains and traditional villages of the Thai and Tay ethnic communities.

Our journey takes us to the town of Muong Lay, where we stop for lunch and learn about the fascinating history of this small town, which has experienced both prosperous times and significant changes throughout the years.

Dien Bien Phu to Lai Chau

In the afternoon, we ride alongside the mighty Da River on one of the most enjoyable roads in Northwestern Vietnam. The route combines long open stretches with beautiful sweeping corners, making for a rewarding day in the saddle.

Towards the end of the day, we turn onto Highway 4D and continue towards Lai Chau. Depending on local conditions and the progress of the group, we will spend the night either in Lai Chau City or in the beautiful mountain village of Sin Suoi Ho.

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

Day 5: Lai Chau to Sapa

Today is a more relaxed day after several challenging riding days.
Leaving Lai Chau, we follow Highway 4D towards Sapa. The highlight of today’s ride is the legendary O Quy Ho Pass, one of the most famous and spectacular mountain passes in Northern Vietnam. With its sweeping curves and breathtaking views over the Hoang Lien Son mountain range, it’s the perfect way to ease into a more relaxing day.
We arrive in Sapa at around 2:00 PM, giving you plenty of free time to explore the town at your own pace. You can wander through the lively streets, enjoy a coffee with a mountain view, or take the cable car to the summit of Fansipan, the highest mountain in Vietnam.

Sapa is one of Vietnam’s most popular mountain destinations, famous for its cool climate, interesting history, stunning scenery and rich cultural diversity.

Summary:
Distance: 100-130km
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Hotel

Day 6: Sapa to Ha Giang

We kick off the day with a scenic backroad ride through a few small Hmong villages. After warming up, we reconnect with the main road and head down to Lao Cai City, where we’ll make a short stop at the Lao Cai International Border Gate—where you can literally see China just across a narrow river.
Back on the bikes, we follow Highway 70 through Bac Ngam to Pho Rang, then take Highway 279 heading toward Ha Giang City. If time allows in the afternoon, we’ll spice up the ride with an off-road section to shake off any highway drowsiness.
By late afternoon, our crew arrives in Ha Giang City—officially saying goodbye to the Northwest and entering the rugged, awe-inspiring 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 and 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: 230 km
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation:Hotel or homestay 

 

Day 7: 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 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: 140 km
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Hotel 

 

Day 8: Dong Van to Ba Be lake

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.

A view from Ma Pi Leng pass

From here, we head to 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

By day’s end, we’ll arrive at Ba Be Lake—the largest natural freshwater lake in Vietnam. After a peaceful boat ride across its tranquil waters, we’ll settle in for the night at a cozy homestay hosted by a local Tay family. 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: 200 km
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Homestay 

Day 9: 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!.