Northern Vietnam Motorbike Tour To Sa Pa, Ha Giang & Ba Be Lake 6 Days

The train is scheduled to arrive at Lao Cai Station around 05:30. Upon arrival, our guide will lead you to a local restaurant for breakfast. We then embark on a motorcycle journey straight to Sa Pa town. Positioned in Lao Cai Province, northwest Vietnam, and approximately 350 km from Hanoi, Sa Pa is in close proximity to the Chinese border. Renowned for its breathtaking and rugged landscapes, as well as its diverse cultural heritage, Sa Pa holds historical significance. In the early 20th century, the French regarded it as the Summer Capital of Northern Vietnam. Its intrinsic beauty continues to attract visitors, making it a popular destination for vacations and, notably, honeymoon couples. We will spend the night at a hotel.

Summary:

Distance: 100 km

Accommodation: Hotel

Embark on a motorcycle descent from Sapa to Lao Cai City, with a refreshing coffee break along the scenic Nam Thi River, marking the border between Vietnam and China. While savoring your coffee, soak in the panoramic view extending towards China. Proceed towards Road 70 before turning onto Road 153, leading to Bac Ha.

Often hailed as the weekend retreat compared to Sapa, Bac Ha may lack the dramatic backdrop of its more renowned counterpart, but it offers a tranquil atmosphere, particularly on Saturdays. The town comes alive on Sunday mornings when visitors gather to interact with the Flower H'mong at the vibrant Bac Ha Market.

In contrast to Sapa, Bac Ha is still in the early stages of tourism development, contributing to a more serene ambiance during the weekdays. Situated around 900m above sea level, it boasts a milder climate than Sapa.

Bac Ha thrives as a hub for the production of homemade alcoholic beverages, including rice wine, cassava wine, and corn liquor. The potent corn hooch crafted by the Flower H'mong is so robust that it can be ignited! Bac Ha stands as the exclusive locale in Vietnam for this distinctive moonshine, with a dedicated section at the Sunday market.

Enjoy an overnight stay in Bac Ha.

Summary:

Distance: 120 km

Accommodation: Home-stay

Upon obtaining the necessary permit for our motorbike excursion in the border regions from Ha Giang's Immigration Police, we embark on a thrilling journey along challenging yet incredibly picturesque mountain roads, weaving through the vibrant landscapes inhabited by diverse hill-tribes.

Ascend the Ma Pi Leng Pass, an awe-inspiring location featuring cloud-kissed mountain ranges and the poetic Nho Que River meandering gracefully in the distance. Words struggle to capture the exact essence of Ma Pi Leng Pass, nestled between Dong Van and Meo Vac near Vietnam's northernmost tip. It unfolds like a breathtaking painting, captivating the gaze of all beholders and nature enthusiasts.

Navigate a zigzagging trail until reaching Vuong Family's Residence, situated 14 kilometers before Dong Van. The Vuong Family, revered as the Hmong People's King in Dong Van, Ha Giang, constructed their residence in the picturesque Sa Phin Valley, showcasing Chinese architectural influences. Crafted entirely from wood and rock, with the stones imported from China, Vuong Family Residence stands as a testament to human artistry in the heavenly beauty of Sa Phin Valley.

Venturing into this remote area, encounter the resilient local residents whose hard work and determination enable them to thrive amidst the rocky terrain. Witness their inspiring resilience as they carve out a livelihood within the rocks. Upon reaching Dong Van Town, relish additional time to explore the ancient streets lined with centuries-old H'mong homes crafted from clay bricks and tiled roofs.

Summary:

Distance: 160 km

Accommodation: Hotel

The road is presently undergoing construction, featuring rugged tracks that contribute to a relatively lengthy journey despite covering a few kilometers. The scenery along the route stands among Vietnam's most enchanting, and the unhurried pace only enhances the overall experience.

Traverse the untamed landscapes of the legendary Ha Giang Province, including the noteworthy Meo Vac. This area shares its border with Dong Van District in Ha Giang Province and Bao Lam District in Cao Bang Province. Meo Vac predominantly lies within the Rock Plateau of Dong Van, situated at an elevation exceeding 1000 meters above sea level.

Enduring harsh winter climates from November to April, characterized by dry and freezing cold conditions, Meo Vac is home to various ethnic minorities, including the H'Mong, King, Tay, Dzao, and more. Many ethnic groups have successfully preserved their cultural heritage, shielding it from external influences.

Embark on a scenic motorbike descent towards Bac Kan Province in the afternoon. Later, partake in a local boat journey on the Na Hang Hydro Power Factory reservoir, heading towards a village near the Dau Dang waterfall within Ba Be National Park for an authentic homestay experience.

Summary:

Distance: 160 km

Accommodation: Homestay

Please be advised: This day is notably extensive, necessitating an early commencement and a cautious ride back along Road 3. Following breakfast, embark on another boat excursion across Ba Be Lake to the opposite shore before mounting our motorbikes toward Cho Ra and ascending to the primary section of Road 3.

Ba Be National Park stands as a vast bioreserve area, encompassing the world's singular freshwater karst lake and hosting a variety of rare flora and fauna. Established by the Vietnamese Government in 1992, this biodiverse 10,048-hectare park boasts 1,268 species of flora and fauna, along with captivating caves and an immense freshwater lake, all dedicated to preserving northeastern forest ecosystems.

Within the park reside over 3,000 people from ethnic minorities such as Tay, Nung, Dao, and Mong, dwelling in 13 villages. The Tay community, having inhabited the Ba Be area for centuries, constitutes 58% of the park's population.

Heading back to Hanoi on Road 3, the traffic intensifies, warranting a timely return to circumvent the rush hour congestion.

Summary:

Distance: 230 km