12-Day Northeast Vietnam Cycling Tour | Hanoi to Ban Gioc

Embark on an unforgettable 12-day Vietnam bike tour through the breathtaking landscapes of the North with this expertly curated Northeast Vietnam cycling tour. Ideal for adventure seekers and nature lovers, this Vietnam cycling adventure takes you from the bustling capital on a cycling tour Hanoi to Ban Gioc, traversing remote villages, serene lakes, and dramatic mountain passes. This immersive bike tour Northeast Vietnam begins with a scenic ride along the Hanoi to Ba Be Lake cycling route, where you’ll enjoy a unique Ba Be National Park cycling tour that includes a peaceful Ba Be Lake boat and bike tour. Experience bikepacking in Northeast Vietnam at its best as you ride through ethnic minority regions, beginning with cycling from Ba Be to Bac Me, continuing on the adventurous cycling Bac Me to Bao Lac route, and exploring historic sites like the Pac Bo historical site bike tour. Along the way, soak in the beauty of Vietnam countryside bike tour experiences, marvel at the majestic Ban Gioc Waterfall cycling trip, and enjoy a picturesque bike tour to Ban Gioc Falls. Discover cultural richness with the Quang Uyen cycling experience, challenge yourself cycling through That Khe pass, and savor the serenity of a Bac Son Valley bike ride. The journey concludes in the lush Huu Lien Nature Reserve bike tour, where you’ll enjoy a tranquil Huu Lien forest bike tour. This route is packed with scenic cycling routes Vietnam, perfect for those seeking Vietnam mountain biking holidays and eco-friendly cycling tours Vietnam. You’ll ride through remote villages cycling Vietnam, engage with locals, and witness authentic Vietnam rural life by bicycle. Designed as one of the best multi-day cycling tours Vietnam has to offer, it’s ideal for bicycle tours for adventure travelers Vietnam and those passionate about cycle touring in Vietnam’s highlands. Our expert team ensures a seamless journey with one of the top guided cycling tours Vietnam offers—truly the pinnacle of adventure cycling Vietnam and a must for anyone crafting a Northern Vietnam bike itinerary.

Day 01: Hanoi – Thai Nguyen – Ba Be Lake Cycling Tour

Start your cycling adventure in Vietnam with a hearty breakfast at the hotel, before leaving behind the hustle and bustle of Hanoi. Our shuttle bus will take you on a scenic two-hour drive along the newly-built highway in Thai Nguyen, heading towards the picturesque Ba Be Lake region, located in the far north of Vietnam..

Once we arrive at our cycling point, the adventure begins with a ride along the tarmac road to the historic Vietminh revolutionary base—a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts. As we cycle through tranquil, untouched villages, you’ll be immersed in the beauty of the northern Vietnamese countryside. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to visit a traditional paper-making village, giving you a glimpse into the local culture and craftsmanship. After a well-deserved lunch at a local restaurant, we’ll recharge and continue cycling on a scenic route that winds through lush forests and rugged limestone mountain ranges. Prepare for an exciting stretch of the journey as we cycle along serene riversides, pass through rustic villages, and descend into the stunning Ba Be Lake area, where our lakeside bungalow awaits. This cycling tour will offer you a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty in northeast Vietnam.

Summary:
Activities: Transferring and Warming cycling
Accommodations:Ba Be lakeside
Meals:L/D
Cycling distance: 86 km

Day 02: Ba Be Lake Bike & Boat Tour

After recharging your energy with a delicious breakfast, get ready for an exciting bike ride through Ba Be National Park. We’ll cycle towards the boat dock, where we’ll embark on a scenic boat tour through the heart of Ba Be Lake. As we cruise along the serene Nang River, you’ll be immersed in the beauty of Ba Be Lake, one of Vietnam’s top natural wonders. Explore the awe-inspiring Puong Grotto, witness the power of the Dau Dang Waterfall, and be captivated by the mystical charm of Widow Island. These incredible sights will leave you in awe, so don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and green surroundings.

In the afternoon, get back on your bike for a charming ride to visit Hua Ma Cave, a vast grotto filled with thousands of stalactites. This cycling and boat adventure through Ba Be will allow you to fully immerse yourself in nature’s beauty and the peaceful atmosphere of this magical region. We'll spend the night in a welcoming homestay right by the riverfront, where you can relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings of Ba Be Lake.

Summary:
Activities: Cycling and Cave exploring, Boat trip on Ba Be Lake
Accommodations: Ba be Lakeside
Meals: B/L/D
Cycling distances: 22 Km

Day 03: Ba Be Lake – Boat Trip and Cycle to Bac Me

Wake up early to witness the authentic daily life of the Tay people, who have called Ba Be Lake their home for centuries. Enjoy a peaceful stroll around the lake, taking in the outstanding scenery and tranquil environment.

After a delicious breakfast with our welcoming hosts, we’ll embark on a boat trip with our bikes, navigating the serene waters of Ba Be Lake and exploring nearby villages. Known as one of the 28 largest freshwater lakes in the world, Ba Be Lake is nestled between limestone mountains and spans 8 km wide and 600 m long, offering a unique opportunity to experience the emerald-colored waters and picturesque landscapes.

Our boat ride will last over an hour, providing us with spectacular views of Ba Be National Park's diverse flora and fauna. After disembarking, we'll cycle along a scenic concrete road, making our way to the Na Hang reservoir. From there, we’ll board another boat for a peaceful trip to the Da Vi section.  Continuing our journey through the untouched beauty of Na Hang National Park, we’ll face thrilling cycling challenges with steep passes and sharp turns, all leading us towards Bac Me. This part of the journey offers spectacular views and the opportunity to experience the real beauty of Vietnam's northern highlands.

Summary:
Activities: Cycling, Boat Trip and Cycling to Hotel
Accommodations: Bac Me Hotel**
Meals:L/D
Cycling distance:  70 Km

Day 04: Bac Me – Bao Lam – Bao Lac

Get ready for another exciting day on our cycling adventure! Today, we’ll be exploring the stunning Gam River region, one of the most picturesque areas in northeast Vietnam. Be sure to recharge your energy for an unforgettable day filled with breathtaking landscapes and cultural encounters.

Start your day by cycling out from the hotel, following a scenic sealed road that meanders gently along the Gam River for 23 km to Ly Bon. After a short and pleasant uphill climb, we’ll enjoy a smooth descent for the next 30 km of flat terrain, offering plenty of time to take in the stunning views.

Along the way, you’ll have the chance to meet the local ethnic minority communities, known for their vibrant tribal costumes and rich culture. We’ll stop to explore a local market or chat with the hill tribes, offering an authentic insight into their daily life. A delicious Vietnamese lunch will be served during our journey, allowing you to recharge while immersing yourself in the serene surroundings.

In the afternoon, we’ll continue cycling along the Gam River, facing a challenging mountain pass before descending into the charming town of Bao Lac, where we’ll rest and reflect on the day's cycling experience. This ride will allow you to experience the untouched beauty of Vietnam’s countryside and the welcoming spirit of the hill tribes.

Summary: 
Activities: Cycling
Accommodation: Thuy Duong Hotel
Meals:B/L/D
Cycling Distance: 74 km.
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/42811827
Distance:    73.8 km
Elevation:    + 2071 / - 1987 m

Day 05: Bao Lac – Khau Coc Tra – Pac Po

Get ready for a challenging yet rewarding cycling day on this leg of our Vietnam bike tour! Today’s ride promises stunning views and incredible experiences as we tackle some of the most rugged terrains in northeast Vietnam.

Start your day with a hearty Vietnamese breakfast at a local restaurant before hopping on your bike to begin the adventure. The first leg of the journey takes you on a 12 km climb up a steep mountain pass. As you ascend, the route winds through rugged mountains, offering opportunities to capture breathtaking photographs of the surrounding deep valleys and rice terraces along the hillsides. Once you reach the summit, you’ll be treated to stunning vistas and a peaceful village.

The ride continues with a series of long, challenging passes that take you through towering, multi-tiered mountains, ranging from three to 15 storeys in height. The route then descends into a dreamlike valley, where we’ll take a break for a picnic lunch and recharge before tackling the next part of the adventure.

In the afternoon, we’ll face the final mountain pass of the day before descending into Thong Nong town. From here, we’ll switch to a secondary road and continue cycling along undulating paths, ultimately reaching the picturesque Pac Po village—a serene and historic location rich in local culture and natural beauty.

This day of mountain biking will push your limits, but the scenic beauty and immersive cultural experiences make it all worthwhile. Cycling in Vietnam’s remote northeast provides a unique and unforgettable adventure!

Summary: 
Activity: Cycling and Transferring
Accommodation: Me Farmstay
Cycling distance:72 km
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/43078401
Distance:    71.2 km
Elevation:    + 2300 / - 2189 m

Day 06: Pac Po – Nam Tra – Magic Eyes Mountain – Tra Linh

Today marks the first day of our Cao Bang Cycling Loop, and we’re ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure through the breathtaking northeast Vietnam. After fueling up with a hearty breakfast, we’ll set off on our bikes, pedaling along rugged limestone mountains, lush tobacco farms, and scenic tarmac roads as we head towards Pac Po.

Cycling through Pac Po is a must-see experience, where we’ll visit the historic Pac Po Monument, nestled in a valley surrounded by towering mountains, a sparkling stream, and the border with China at the 108th milestone. This area holds historical significance as it was here that Ho Chi Minh made the pivotal decision to establish the Vietnam Revolutionary base, providing invaluable insight into Vietnam’s revolutionary history.

After exploring the Pac Po monument, we’ll continue our ride through a rustic hill tribal village, meandering along the border belt to the Nam Nhung commune, where we’ll stop for a refreshing break. The journey continues through a variety of terrains, including gravel roads, hidden paths, and village roads, taking us to the picturesque Luu Ngoc Commune for a delicious picnic lunch.

Once refreshed, we’ll saddle up again and ride through magnificent limestone mountains, lush rice paddy fields, and along idyllic rivers, making our way to Nam Tra village, also known as Magic Eyes Mountain. Here, you'll be immersed in a fairyland-like setting of majestic landscapes and have the chance to admire a magical sunset over the mountain peaks—an experience you won’t want to miss.

Finally, we’ll venture on a single-track trail winding through rugged limestone mountains and streams, passing through Cao Chuong village, before following a tarmac road to reach our destination in Tra Linh town. This day of cycling in Cao Bang offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural exploration, and historical significance, making it one of the most memorable experiences of your Vietnam cycling adventure.

Summary:
Activities: Transferring and cycling to Hotel
Accommodations: Duc Long Hotel**
Meals:B/L/D
Cycling distances: 67 Km
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/46969875
Distance:    67 km
Elevation:    + 1741 / - 1394 m

 Day 07: Tra Linh – Trung Khanh – Ban Gioc

Get ready for an unforgettable day of cycling as we continue our Cao Bang cycling loop in the heart of northeast Vietnam. After a hearty breakfast to fuel up for the day, we'll embark on an incredible cycling adventure that will take us through breathtaking landscapes and stunning natural wonders!

Our journey starts on a smooth tarmac road, winding through the town and taking us to a secondary road that leads us to a gently rolling hill road, surrounded by the lush beauty of a canopy forest. As we cycle through this serene environment, you'll be captivated by the mesmerizing scenery of Vietnam's Global Geopark.

Before reaching Trung Khanh Town, we’ll take a detour onto a dirt road and single-track trail, passing through rustic villages, towering limestone mountains, lush rice fields, and vibrant corn fields. These majestic landscapes lead us all the way to the stunning Jade Quay Son River, where the incredible natural beauty will leave you in awe.

As we cycle along the river and through the quaint villages dotted with lush rice paddy fields, we’ll cross a bamboo bridge and continue our journey to the Eco Homestay for a delightful lunch. After recharging, get ready for more adventure as we ride towards the Ban Gioc Waterfall, one of Vietnam’s most iconic natural wonders, or choose to kayak along the tranquil Quay Son River for a unique experience. In the evening, we’ll head to the Ban Gioc Resort for dinner and an overnight stay, where you can relax and enjoy the incredible views of the waterfall and surrounding landscapes.This day of cycling through Cao Bang offers an unforgettable blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural exploration, making it a highlight of your Vietnam cycling tour.

Summary:
Activities: Cycling from hotel - Hotel
Accommodations: Lan Rung Ecolodge
Meals:B/L/D
Cycling distances: 72 Km
Distance:    70.9 km
Elevation:    + 1060 / - 1326 m

Day 08: Ban Gioc – Quang Uyen

Start your day early to witness the breathtaking Ban Gioc Waterfall, one of the most stunning natural wonders in Vietnam and the world's fourth-largest border-crossing waterfall. Surrounded by towering limestone mountains, lush rice fields, and the peaceful rhythms of daily life, Ban Gioc is a must-see on any northeast Vietnam cycling tour.

After a delicious breakfast at the hotel, we’ll gear up and hit the road, cycling along the Vietnam-China border towards Hanh Lang town. Today promises another exciting adventure as we tackle hilly passes and sharp turns that will reward us with spectacular landscapes at every turn.

The first stage of the ride will take us through an undulating route alongside the river, passing lush rice paddies and peaceful villages, offering an authentic glimpse into local life. The second stage of the ride is more challenging but equally rewarding, as we conquer three steep passes that provide incredible panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

For a special treat, we’ll stop for a relaxing picnic lunch at the third pass, allowing you to soak in the natural beauty of the area. After lunch, we’ll continue our cycling adventure down a newly paved road that leads us directly to Quang Uyen Town, where we’ll check in and unwind with a well-deserved dinner to conclude another remarkable day of Vietnam cycling exploration.

Summary:
Activities: Cycling 
Accommodations: Hung Dung Hotel**
Meals: B/L/D
Cycling distances: 40 - 60Km

Day 09: Quang Uyen – Phi Ha – Pia Thap – Tu Do – Dong Khe – That Khe

Get ready for an unforgettable cycling adventure through the Non Nuoc Cao Bang Geopark! Today’s journey promises to reveal the magical landscapes and breathtaking beauty of Cao Bang, known for its stunning limestone mountains, picturesque valleys, and charming rural villages.

After a revitalizing breakfast at a local restaurant, we’ll kick off the day by cycling through a vibrant morning market en route to Phi Hai village. Prepare for the first challenge of the day as we conquer a steep pass, leading us to a dreamlike valley that will leave you in awe. As we continue cycling on a scenic single track, we’ll pass through rustic villages and marvel at the poetic landscapes of the region.  Our first stop is the Lan Duoi village, famous for its traditional basket weaving. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to see the skilled artisans at work and even try your hand at making a basket yourself. Next, we’ll visit Pia Thap village , where you’ll learn about the ancient craft of making stick incense, a tradition that has been passed down through generations. After soaking in the local culture, we’ll tackle an incredible mountain pass, offering a panoramic view of Pia Thap village and the surrounding limestone peaks.

Continuing on our journey, we’ll cycle along a beautifully maintained concrete path that winds through a lush meadow, surrounded by maize fields and stunning limestone pinnacles draped in vibrant greenery. The scenery here is straight out of a fairy-tale landscape. Our route will take us through Tu Do and Hanh Phuc communes, before we meet the main road and stop for a delicious picnic lunch.  After refueling, we’ll continue cycling on a hilly road that will lead us to Dong Khe town. Upon arrival in Dong Khe, we have two fantastic options for the final stretch: cycle the remaining 24km to That Khe, or take a transfer to your hotel. Either way, today’s adventure will leave you with lasting memories of the beauty and charm of northeast Vietnam.

Summary:
Activities: Cycling from Hotel - Hotel
Accommodations:  Hai Van Hotel
Meals:B/L/D
Hiking Distance; 78 Km

Day 10: That Khe – Bac Son

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel, then prepare for an exciting cycling adventure through That Khe Town. We’ll kick off the day by cycling along undulating roads that wind through rustic villages and picturesque rice paddy fields. After warming up, we’ll face our first challenge—climbing a steep pass that takes us up into the rugged limestone mountains and lush tropical forests, offering jaw-dropping views.

The breathtaking scenery along this winding route will leave you in awe as we navigate the mountain ranges. After a rewarding climb, we’ll pause for a well-deserved lunch along the way before continuing on our cycling journey to Bac Son Town.

Bac Son is not only a scenic destination but also steeped in fascinating history, dating back to the post-Vietnam Revolutionary era of the 1930s. Known as one of the first battlefields against the French military in northeast Vietnam, this area offers both historical significance and incredible natural beauty.

As we cycle through the Bac Son Valley, you’ll be amazed by the panoramic views and picture-perfect landscapes. The valley is a photographer’s paradise, offering stunning vistas of rolling hills, traditional village life, and lush green fields. The route takes us to the Quynh Son Eco Homestay villages, where you’ll get a unique glimpse into the local culture.

Cycling along the back roads of Bac Son provides the perfect opportunity to explore the area’s rich heritage and natural beauty. After a day full of adventure, we’ll head back to the hotel for a relaxing dinner to unwind and reflect on the day’s journey.

Summary:
Activities:Transferring and Cycling
Accommodations: Binh Huong Hotel
Meals:B/L/D
Cycling distances: 65 Km

Day 11: Bac Son – Huu Lien

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at the homestay, sipping a cup of hot tea or coffee on the porch while enjoying the stunning view of white clouds hovering over the mountain peaks that surround the Bac Son Valley. The early morning mist creates an enchanting atmosphere, perfect for a peaceful start to an adventurous day.

Once we've enjoyed our breakfast, we’re off on our cycling adventure! We’ll begin by cycling through Quynh Son village, passing through vibrant rice fields, where the landscape changes with the seasons—lush green in spring or golden yellow in the fall—before heading towards the foot of Na Lay mountain. Here, we’ll leave our bikes behind and embark on an incredible hike to the top of the mountain. The crisp morning air and panoramic views of Bac Son Valley will take your breath away.

After descending from the mountain, we’ll continue our cycling journey through the stunning Bac Son Valley, riding all the way to the Dong Lam - Huu Lien Nature Reserve. Prepare to immerse yourself in nature's beauty as we head to the Huu Lien community tourist area for a well-deserved lunch and rest.

The adventure continues as we cycle through the picturesque Lang Ben village, making our way towards the Huu Lien Nature Reserve. Experience the serene landscape of the prairie, where you'll witness horses running freely across the open fields. Afterward, it’s time for an unforgettable experience: kayaking on the lakebed along the savannah. Paddle through the verdant meadows, heading toward the expansive lake while challenging your teamwork and strength.

After an exciting day of exploration, we’ll head back to the homestay for a relaxing break before enjoying a delicious dinner featuring local specialties like hill chicken hotpot and grilled spring rolls. Recharge, reflect on your day, and get ready for the next adventure!

Summary:
Activities:Transferring and Cycling
Accommodations: Phong Son Retreat
Meals:B/L/D
Cycling distances: 65 Km

Day 12: Huu Lien - Hanoi

After a delicious breakfast at your homestay, it's time for the adventure of a lifetime! Grab your picnic gear, hop on your bike, and enjoy a scenic ride to a secluded island for a truly unique experience. As you arrive on the island’s vast green expanse, you’ll feel like Robinson Crusoe in your own little paradise! Spread out the picnic mat and get ready to relax with a refreshing afternoon tea amidst the serene surroundings.

Now for the best part! Prepare for a memorable experience as we host a BBQ lunch right on the meadow, where you’ll enjoy a feast of local delicacies. Savor the flavors of hill chicken from the Tay ethnic group, tender ethnic pig from the Nung group, and the signature dish of sticky rice with braised red leaves. This unforgettable meal will be the highlight of your day!

At 1:00 PM, it’s time to head back to the homestay to freshen up with a well-deserved shower and rest before the journey back to the vibrant city of Hanoi.

From 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, we’ll bid farewell to the peaceful beauty of Dong Lam and Huu Lien. While you return to the hustle and bustle of daily life, you’ll always carry the memories of this extraordinary adventure and the stunning landscapes of Vietnam's countryside. Don't forget to return whenever you seek a peaceful retreat with clouds, mist, and natural beauty waiting to greet you!

Summary:
Activities: Cycling and transferring 
Accommodations: By yourself
Meals:B/L/
Cycling distances: 55 Km