Insightful Northern Vietnam Motorcycle Tour in Focus – 7 Days

Mai Chau stands out as one of the closest places to Hanoi where an authentic Montagnard village experience awaits. In the morning, embark on a brief stroll around the village to immerse yourself in the local way of life. The side comes alive early, with a flurry of activity unfolding by sunrise. The skilled Thai women, renowned for their mastery of weaving, showcase their artistry under or inside their village homes, offering a variety of traditional-style clothing for purchase in the village center.

Witness the women at their looms, creating intricate pieces of handmade traditional clothing, knives, or cross-bows. Following a satisfying breakfast at the home-stay, bid farewell to the villagers and depart from Mai Chau. Embark on an offroad journey through Hang Kia – Pa Co, leading to Van Ho in Son La province. This route unveils stunning landscapes featuring wildflowers, terraced fields of corn and bananas, and picturesque villages with traditional huts. Proceed in the direction of Moc Chau, where a delectable lunch awaits.

Moc Chau, a highland town renowned for producing some of Vietnam's finest tea, provides an opportunity to stock up on this local specialty. The surrounding area is home to various ethnic minorities, including Green H'mong, Dzao, Thai, and Muong. Notably, Moc Chau boasts a pioneering dairy industry that emerged in the late 1970s with Australian and UN assistance. The dairy contributes to Hanoi's supply of delightful treats such as fresh milk, sweetened condensed milk, and toothsome bars known as "Banh sua."

After lunch, navigate the less-traveled Road 43 leading to the Da River. Cross the Da River reservoir at Van Yen ferry, then traverse a scenic winding secondary road until reaching Phu Yen, where accommodations are provided in a basic guest-house.

Summary:
Distance: 160 km

Offroad Ratio: 60%

Accommodation: Hotel

In the morning, our journey continues on motorcycles, traversing the historic Lung Lo Pass before ascending on Road 32. Notably, the 15km-long Lung Lo Pass played a crucial role during the First Indochina War. This pass, integral for the Vietnamese resistance force in transporting weapons, goods, and food during the Dien Bien Phu campaign of 1954, witnessed significant bombardment by the French forces attempting to sever the front lines from the rear. Recognized as a national heritage by the ministry, Lung Lo Pass is located in the northern province of Yen Bai.

Following a hearty lunch, we navigate through the formidable Mu Cang Chai massif, nearly as elevated as Fansipan. From its summit, breathtaking views of North Vietnam unfold, making the challenging ride incredibly rewarding. Accommodations for the night are arranged in a comfortable hotel.

Summary:
Distance: 180 km

Offroad Ratio: 60%

Accommodation: Hotel

We embark on our motorbike journey directly towards the main Fansipan Mountain range. For those seeking an adventurous alternative, a highly challenging back route presents itself, leading us through numerous river crossings. The imposing mountain range commands the road until we embark on a spectacular ascent from Binh Lu to the summit of the highest road pass in Vietnam, Tram Ton Pass.

As we enter Lao Cai Province at an elevation of over 2,000m, panoramic views unfold over the expansive main range, stretching for miles and miles. The descent takes us to the mountainous Sa Pa valley, situated in Lao Cai Province, northwest Vietnam, approximately 350 km northwest of Hanoi and in proximity to the border with China.

Renowned for its rugged, picturesque landscapes and cultural diversity, Sa Pa held the title of the Summer Capital of Northern Vietnam in the early decades of the 20th century according to the French. Its natural beauty has consistently drawn visitors for vacations, with the location being a popular choice for honeymoon couples. Accommodations for the night are arranged in a comfortable hotel.

Summary:
Distance: 160 km

Offroad Ratio: 60%

Accommodation: Hotel

Today, embark on a motorbike journey from Sapa to explore the expansive Muong Hoa valley, home to Lao Chai and Ta Van villages, renowned as the residence of the Black H'mong ethnic minority and the Giay ethnic minority hill tribe, who have established their roots here for centuries. Take a break and relish a lunch in a local dwelling. Following the meal, continue riding along a hilly trail through a bamboo forest, reaching Giang Ta Chai, Thanh Phu, and Ban Ho villages, where the Red Dao ethnic minority resides.

En route, consider stopping at a small waterfall to rest, capture photographs, and gain insights into the agricultural techniques employed by the hill tribes on their terraced fields. Upon departing the village, descend to a suspension bridge before ascending to the main road. From there, you can continue riding to Topas Ecolodge, where you can enjoy a cup of coffee and witness clouds drifting overhead, before returning to Sapa.

Summary:
Distance: 100 km

Offroad Ratio: 50%

Accommodation: Hotel

We commence our motorbike descent from Sapa to Lao Cai City. We then pause for a coffee break on the banks of the Nam Thi River, marking the Vietnam-China border. Savor your coffee while relishing the scenic view extending into China. Travel along Road 70 before making a turn onto Road 152 towards Luc Yen. We journey through a palm forest, tracing the path via Luc Yen to the village of our Dao friends, Vu Linh, situated alongside Thac Ba Lake, Vietnam's largest artificial lake.

Thac Ba Lake sprawls across an area of 23,400 hectares, adorned with 1,331 islands and hills, each hosting diverse ecological environments. The lake's crystal-clear blue water reflects the surrounding ancient forest. Numerous hills and islands feature caves such as Hum, Cau Cuoi, and Bach Xa.

Following lunch, embark on a boat ride, pausing at an island for a refreshing swim and exploring the unique characteristics of the area. Observe villagers skillfully paddling their boats, encounter exotic animals in the vicinity, and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of this expansive lake. Gain insights into the Dao lifestyle amid the myriad islets. The day concludes with an unforgettable dinner hosted by the locals, known for their vibrant celebrations and love of festivities. Brace yourself for an exceptional welcome, and we hope you emerge unscathed.

Summary:
Distance: 230 km
Accommodation: Home-stay

We set out on a southeast journey along Highway 2, eventually veering off towards the tranquil town of Phu Tho. Tracing the periphery of the Red River along the dyke, our route continues until the convergence point with the Black River. Together, they gracefully flow towards Hanoi, marking our transition into the lowlands of the delta plains, a predominant agricultural region in the north. The landscape during harvest time transforms into a vibrant sea of activity.

Crossing the Black River via a bridge, our path takes us through Son Tay before making our way back to Hanoi on the highway. To avoid the increasing rush-hour traffic, we aim to return to Hanoi before 4 pm, ensuring a smoother journey amid the bustling roads.

Summary:
Distance: 180 km