9-Day Northern Vietnam Cycling Tour | Off-the-Beaten-Path Bike Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable 9-day Northern Vietnam cycling tour designed for adventure seekers eager to explore the hidden gems of Northern Vietnam. This Vietnam off-the-beaten-path cycling experience takes you through some of the country's most scenic and untouched landscapes. From the bustling streets of Hanoi, pedal your way through the serene beauty of Xuan Son National Park, the charming Da Bac cycling route, and into the highland haven of Moc Chau, where the Moc Chau backroads cycling adventure awaits.

This Ha Noi to Moc Chau bike tour offers the perfect blend of nature and culture, as you cycle through remote mountain regions and stay in authentic village homestays. Continue your journey through the lush Mai Chau valley bike tour, explore the pristine trails of the Pu Luong Nature Reserve cycling area, and discover the peaceful Ngoc Son cycling route. This North Vietnam bike tour itinerary is crafted to offer both physical challenge and deep cultural insight, making it ideal for an eco-friendly Vietnam cycling holiday.

With scenic cycling routes in Vietnam, a focus on ethnic culture, and opportunities for true cultural immersion, this cycling tour in North Vietnam promises an enriching and sustainable travel experience. Whether you're biking remote regions of Vietnam like Xuan Son, Da Bac, and Pu Luong, or simply looking for the best cycling routes in Northern Vietnam countryside, this 9-day off-the-beaten-track cycling tour in Northern Vietnam delivers an exceptional adventure. So come and explore untouched Northern Vietnam by bicycle, and experience the heart and soul of this incredible region.

Day 01: Hanoi – Ho Thanh – Vo Mieu – Long Coc – Xuan Son National Park

Start your 09-day cycling adventure in Northern Vietnam with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before escaping the hustle and bustle of Hanoi. A one-hour transfer takes you to the cycling point, where the real journey begins! Get ready to pedal through the breathtaking Northwest region of Vietnam, immersing yourself in the beauty of lush rice paddies, verdant cornfields, and dense tropical forests as we make our way to the tranquil Black River. Experience the thrill of cycling through scenic backroads, single tracks, and buffalo trails, uncovering hidden gems off the beaten path. A highlight of the morning ride is a stunning boat trip across the Black River in Tu Vu commune, where you'll cycle along the rivershore, soaking in the picturesque views of rural Vietnam. We then veer off onto charming village roads and rugged tracks, leading straight to the breathtaking Long Coc Tea Hills—one of Vietnam’s most iconic cycling destinations. Enjoy a scenic lunch stop before continuing the ride through rolling tea plantations, small streams, and peaceful farmlands on the way to Xuan Son National Park. The adventure intensifies with a 20 km ride through gently undulating terrain, surrounded by dense forests and terraced rice fields, before reaching the buffer zones of the national park. The day’s biggest challenge awaits—a thrilling 16 km mountain ascent on a winding road flanked by majestic mountain ranges, cinnamon plantations, and lush acacia forests. With every turn, the panoramic views get more spectacular, making this an unforgettable start to your Vietnam cycling tour.

Day 02: Xuan Son – Da Bac Cycling Adventure

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before setting off on an unforgettable cycling journey through Northern Vietnam’s nature reserves. Today’s ride takes you along scenic tarmac and paved roads, weaving through lush rice paddies, dense forests, and breathtaking mountain landscapes. As we approach a traditional Vietnamese village, we transition onto buffalo-beaten paths, immersing ourselves in the authentic rural lifestyle and the rich cultural heritage of the region. A major highlight of the day is our stop at Hien Luong village, where we’ll enjoy a delicious home-cooked lunch with a local family—a rare opportunity to experience true Vietnamese hospitality. After lunch, take a fascinating stroll through the village, gaining insight into traditional customs and daily life.

Back on our bikes, we embark on an exciting 30 km cycling adventure along a dirt road beside the stunning Da Reservoir, heading toward Da Bia Eco Homestay Village. The ride offers spectacular lake views, towering limestone karsts, and serene countryside landscapes, making it one of the most picturesque cycling routes in Vietnam. As we pass through remote villages, we gain a deeper appreciation for the unique culture of the Muong ethnic people. Upon arrival at Da Bia Eco Homestay, we settle in for a relaxing evening in this peaceful lakeside village. Experience an enchanting traditional music performance by the Muong community, followed by a delightful dinner with our warm and welcoming host family—the perfect way to end another incredible day on this Northern Vietnam cycling tour.

Day 03: Da Bac – Boat Trip – Bai Sang – Moc Chau Cycling Adventure

Wake up early to immerse yourself in the pristine nature and tranquil beauty of Northern Vietnam. Start the day with a delicious local breakfast at your eco-homestay in Da Bac, followed by an unforgettable rafting experience on Da Reservoir. Paddle across the crystal-clear waters, surrounded by breathtaking limestone karsts and lush forests—a truly magical moment on this Vietnam cycling tour. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a refreshing swim in the sparkling emerald waters before returning to the homestay for check-out. We then cycle to the boat dock, where we load our bikes and set sail for Bai Sang, enjoying spectacular lake views and untouched natural scenery along the way. Once we arrive, the adventure continues with an exhilarating ride on scenic backroads, single-track trails, and undulating jeep paths, offering a mix of thrilling climbs and rewarding panoramic views of Moc Chau’s stunning landscapes.

As we approach Moc Chau Plateau, Vietnam’s famous tea and dairy farming region, prepare to be mesmerized by its rolling green hills and misty highlands. Upon arrival at the hotel, check in and unwind before heading out to explore the charming town. The day ends with a delicious traditional Vietnamese dinner and a well-earned rest, preparing for another exciting day of cycling in Northern Vietnam’s most picturesque nature reserves.

Day 04: Moc Chau – Tea Farms – Na Ka Peach Valley Cycling Adventure

Nestled at 1,340 meters above sea level, Moc Chau Plateau is a true hidden gem and one of Northern Vietnam’s most breathtaking cycling destinations. Known for its rolling tea plantations, lush green pastures, and vibrant ethnic cultures, this region offers an unforgettable cycling adventure in Vietnam’s highlands. The scenic road between Moc Chau and Son La is lined with majestic limestone mountains, terraced fields, and charming hill tribe villages, making it a must-visit for every traveler.

Moc Chau is world-famous for its tea farms and dairy production, making it the perfect place to experience Vietnam’s tea culture firsthand. We begin our day’s ride from the hotel, cycling through endless green tea plantations, stopping at a local tea workshop to learn about traditional tea-making techniques. Pedal through single-track trails and dirt roads, passing vibrant flower gardens, tropical fruit orchards, and vast rolling hills, offering some of the most stunning cycling routes in Vietnam.

A highlight of today’s journey is a scenic descent into Na Ka Peach Valley, a hidden paradise famous for its pristine white peach blossoms in spring. Transitioning from dirt roads to a dramatic winding concrete trail, we immerse ourselves in the serene beauty of Moc Chau’s untouched landscapes. Along the way, we take time to savor freshly harvested green tea leaves and locally-produced cow’s milk, a true taste of Moc Chau’s agricultural heritage. Upon arrival at the homestay, unwind and soak in the tranquil surroundings of a traditional Hmong village. Take a leisurely stroll through the village, absorbing the rustic charm of local life and admiring the spectacular mountain views. This day is truly an unforgettable part of your Northern Vietnam cycling tour, blending cultural experiences, natural wonders, and thrilling cycling adventures.

Day 05: Moc Chau – Hang Kia – Thung Mai – Tau Na – Buoc Village Cycling Adventure

After a hearty breakfast, we set off from our Moc Chau homestay, embarking on an exhilarating cycling adventure through Northern Vietnam’s hidden trails. The ride begins on a single-track dirt road and winding concrete paths, passing through peaceful Hmong villages, lush peach orchards, sprawling tea plantations, and aromatic herbal gardens. Along the way, we encounter friendly hill tribe communities and cheerful local children, offering a glimpse into authentic rural life in Vietnam.  Our journey continues with an exciting descent into the stunning Tra Linh section, where we turn off the asphalt road to Pa Co, cycling along scenic mountain routes and steep, winding passes before reaching the breathtaking Hang Kia Valley. This hidden paradise, surrounded by towering limestone peaks and misty highlands, is one of the most picturesque cycling routes in Northern Vietnam. After an hour of pure joy on these serene backroads, we arrive at Thung Mai Valley, where the Hmong ethnic minority has preserved its ancient customs and traditional way of life for generations. We then ride on a smooth yet winding concrete road, tackling rugged mountain trails and rolling hills as we approach Tau Na, a remote highland village offering spectacular panoramic views. A scenic picnic lunch awaits, fueling us for the next challenge—a thrilling climb over a rugged mountain pass that marks the boundary between Moc Chau and Mai Chau districts. We continue cycling along mountain trails, reaching a spectacular peak where we take a well-earned break with refreshing snacks and water, before descending into the lush green valley of Phieng Ve Commune. Finally, we arrive at Buoc Village, a charming, off-the-beaten-path destination nestled in the Mai Chau backroads. Celebrate this epic day of cycling in Northern Vietnam with a toast before enjoying a delicious home-cooked dinner and an overnight stay at a cozy local homestay.

Day 06: Mai Chau Trail – Pu Luong Nature Reserve Cycling Adventure

Start your cycling adventure from Mai Chau to Pu Luong Nature Reserve, an area renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, terraced rice paddies, and traditional Thai and Muong villages. As we set off early from our eco homestay, we ride along scenic single-track trails that connect one peaceful village to another. Mornings in these authentic ethnic villages are truly special—witness the locals starting their day, tending to farms, and preserving traditions that have lasted for centuries.

As we cycle deeper into the valley, we stop in Sam Khoe Village for a delicious local lunch, where you’ll have the chance to interact with the Thai ethnic community and learn about their unique way of life. Our ride continues on a backroad cycling route toward Hang Village, leading us into the heart of Pu Luong Nature Reserve. This untouched paradise boasts towering limestone mountains, lush forests, and panoramic views of Pu Luong’s stunning landscapes. We take a well-earned break at the summit to admire the majestic Pu Luong scenery, before enjoying a thrilling descent to Pho Doan Market, where vibrant local trade brings the village to life. After lunch, we continue on a relaxed ride through buffalo trails, bamboo forests, and shaded tarmac roads, passing by hidden hamlets and breathtaking terraced rice fields. Upon arrival in Nua Village, unwind with a refreshing shower, cold beer, or soft drink, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere of this off-the-beaten-path gem. Enjoy a traditional home-cooked dinner and immerse yourself in Thai ethnic culture before settling in for a restful night at an authentic Thai homestay. This unforgettable day blends scenic cycling, cultural experiences, and nature exploration, making it a highlight of your Vietnam cycling tour through Mai Chau and Pu Luong Nature Reserve.

Day 07: Pu Luong Backroad Cycling – Hidden Trails & Scenic Valley Views

Start your morning with a hearty breakfast in Pu Luong, preparing for an incredible day of cycling through Northern Vietnam’s most breathtaking landscapes. Our ride begins on a scenic village path, leading uphill onto a rugged dirt road with panoramic views of Thai villages and terraced rice fields nestled in the lush valley below. Though the terrain is challenging, the stunning scenery of Pu Luong Nature Reserve makes every pedal stroke worth it.

From here, enjoy an exhilarating single-track descent to Pho Doan, where we stop for a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, savoring authentic Thai ethnic cuisine. After lunch, we continue cycling along a mix of dirt trails and smooth tarmac roads, passing through traditional Thai villages, golden rice paddies, and serene riverside landscapes. The ride gradually follows a gentle upstream path along the river, offering a relaxing yet immersive cycling experience in Pu Luong’s unspoiled countryside. 

At Canh Nang town, our support vehicle will be waiting to transfer us back to the Pu Luong Retreat, where you can unwind and soak in the tranquil atmosphere of this hidden gem in Northern Vietnam. The remainder of the day is yours—relax with a refreshing drink, explore the retreat’s surroundings, or simply enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature in Pu Luong. This Pu Luong cycling adventure combines scenic off-the-beaten-path trails, cultural immersion, and breathtaking rice terrace landscapes, making it an unforgettable highlight of your Vietnam cycling tour

Day 08: Pu Luong to Ngoc Son Ngo Luong National Reserve Cycling and Trekking Adventure

Rise early and immerse yourself in the tranquil nature of Pu Luong, surrounded by the peaceful atmosphere of local hill tribe villages. Begin your day with a leisurely stroll around the village to observe the daily life of the hill tribes and engage with the friendly locals to gain insight into their time-honored traditions. After a delicious traditional breakfast at your homestay, bid farewell to the hosts before embarking on today’s cycling adventure through Northern Vietnam’s pristine landscapes.

Our ride begins as we navigate winding village roads, following streams, rivers, and bamboo-lined canals on our way to the lush Coi Gao village. From here, we enter the heart of the Ngoc Son Ngo Luong Nature Reserve, an area known for its untouched beauty and vibrant ecosystems. Along the way, we cycle through tropical forests, crossing small streams and winding through canopies of towering trees—an experience that allows you to truly connect with nature. Today, you’ll have the opportunity to trek along what is considered one of the most scenic trails in Northern Vietnam. The natural beauty of Ngoc Son Ngo Luong Nature Reserve will captivate you, as you explore its lush terrain, full of diverse wildlife and peaceful serenity. A picnic lunch will be served by a tranquil spring in the forest, giving you the chance to relax and savor the surroundings.

As the afternoon progresses, we continue our cycling through hidden trails and quaint Muong villages before returning to the forest. In the late afternoon, as sunset paints the sky, we’ll walk along the village roads of the Muong ethnic group, capturing stunning views of cooking smoke rising from the stilt houses that dot the landscape. Our journey continues on single-track paths and dirt roads through tropical forests until we reach our destination—a Muong Hill tribe village where we’ll spend the night, immersed in the culture and tradition of the Muong people. This unforgettable day of cycling and trekking through Ngoc Son Ngo Luong National Reserve offers a deep dive into the natural beauty and ethnic diversity of Northern Vietnam

Day 09: Ngoc Son to Hanoi – Scenic Cycling and Rafting Adventure

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your homestay before bidding farewell to your hosts. Today, we set off on a new adventure as we cycle from Ngoc Son toward Ban Khanh Village, passing through peaceful hill tribe villages and lush rice paddy fields. Our route takes us through Mon Village, where we’ll cross charming streams and navigate the hillside paths leading to Thuong Village.

In Thuong Village, we embark on a scenic raft trip along the Buoi River, taking in the tranquil surroundings as we float for three hours along this serene waterway. The raft journey offers a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Northern Vietnam from a different perspective. After our rafting adventure, we continue cycling towards Khanh Village, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the rural landscape. At the end of the day, we will transfer back to Hanoi, marking the end of our 10-day cycling and cultural adventure through Northern Vietnam’s most beautiful nature reserves.

Important Notes on Accommodation and Meals

Accommodation:

Please note that hotels and homestays listed in this 9-day Northern Vietnam cycling tour itinerary are subject to change due to availability. In such cases, we will arrange equivalent or better-quality accommodations to ensure your comfort and a seamless travel experience.

Meals and Dietary Requirements:

If you have any specific dietary needs such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or food allergies, please inform us well in advance. This allows us to notify our restaurant partners, tour guides, and local hosts to provide you with the best possible dining experience during your Vietnam cycling holiday.

For food lovers, Snail Adventure Tours offers a unique culinary journey alongside your cycling adventure. You’ll have the opportunity to savor authentic, local Vietnamese cuisine and world-famous dishes carefully selected to complement your cultural immersion and travel experience.

Tour Inclusions for the 9-Day Northern Vietnam Cycling Tour

5. English-speaking cycling guide (other languages available upon request) to ensure clear communication throughout your journey.
5. Comfortable accommodations based on double/twin occupancy, carefully selected to enhance your authentic experience.
5. Meals as detailed in the itinerary, including 08 breakfasts, 09 lunches, and 8 dinners featuring local and regional cuisine.
5. Air-conditioned transfers and transportation to support your comfort during longer travel segments.
5. Support vehicle (van or bus) available throughout cycling days to assist riders as needed. For groups of 6 or more, a truck is provided to accommodate gear and participants.
5. High-quality Trek mountain bikes (model 4300) equipped with disc brakes and helmets, ensuring safety and performance on diverse terrains.
5. All necessary cycling equipment including bike pumps, tools, spare tubes, and spare bikes to keep you riding smoothly.
5. Comprehensive first aid kit for peace of mind during your adventure.
5. Refreshing cold water box and small fresh towels provided during cycling days to keep you hydrated and comfortable.
5. Mineral water for drinking throughout the tour.
5. Healthy fruit and snacks provided on cycling days to maintain your energy levels.

Tour Exclusions for the 9-Day Northern Vietnam Cycling Tour

• International and domestic airfare to and from Vietnam.
• Visa fees and related entry or exit taxes.
• Personal travel insurance covering health, accidents, and trip cancellations.
• Optional activities and excursions not specified in the itinerary.
• Meals and drinks not mentioned in the tour inclusions.
• Personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls, and souvenirs.
• Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff (optional but appreciated).
• Bicycle rental upgrades or special equipment requests beyond the standard provided Trek mountain bike.
• Any costs arising from unforeseen circumstances such as weather delays, political events, or changes outside our control.