The far north of Vietnam possesses the infinite hidden beauty of astonishing and majestic natural landscapes, ancient primeval forests coloured by time, and meticulously carved terraced fields on hillsides and mountain slopes like fortresses towering between heaven and earth, which are now so iconic and have been photographed so many times that you may feel familiar with them, but the truth is that these tribes, still living in their traditional way, are found in the remotest areas of South East Asia and Ha Giang Province, which has only recently been opened to the world, But the truth is that these tribes, still living in their traditional ways, exist only in the remotest parts of Southeast Asia, and Ha Giang Province, only recently opened to travellers, is undoubtedly one of the best places left to witness their culture.

The 14 day Enchanting Northern Vietnam Mountain Biking Tour will allow you to experience some of the most unique landscapes and cultural diversity in Vietnam. You will not only be able to ride your bike and admire the enchanting scenery, but you will also be able to conquer the spectacular passes hidden in the morning mist, winding around the mountainside or crossing the dreamy valleys.
 In 14 days of mountain biking in northern Vietnam, we cover 984,2 km of mixed terrain with varying gradients, winding through steep passes, villages, valleys and green rice fields.
Our cycling trip will start in Hanoi - the fascinating city and capital of Vietnam, we hop on our bike in mid North Vietnam to cycle on scenic route with breathtaking scenery and scenic beauty of Ba Be Lake, challenge one of the fourth incredible pass on road leading to township.
Joining in festive atmosphere of regular hill tribe market to learn about their traditional culture, hunting a vivid and vibrant pictures in every corner of market.
Spend 4 days cycling loop and admire rocky mountain in Ha Giang - Global the Geology Park.
Ha Giang is the most attractive destination in the country, with Happiness Road, Dong Van Plateau, Khau Vai Love Market, Quan Ba Sky Gate, mysterious, majestic, twisting and winding passes. Hidden in dense clouds, far down in the valley, are rustic and cosy H'mong villages.
 Ha Giang is the last province in the country to be opened to visitors in recent years, with spectacular scenery, primeval forests and high mountains. Natural fortresses are carved into steps, and rocky plateaus are divided by imaginative stone alleys. This majestic landscape has been home to many generations of H Mong people.
The spectacular and winding roads of Ha Giang's rocky plateau not only challenge those who love to explore and move, but also make many people "heartbroken" because of their amazing beauty. Nature on these roads always wears green and green clothes, full of vitality, creating a ravishing scene, both poetic and mysterious, leaving you dazzled by the indescribable series of emotions.

Cao Bang, located in the northeast of Vietnam, possesses the incredible natural beauty, a magnificent Ban Gioc waterfall, a range of limestone mountain surrounded the colourful ethnic minority villages, a jagged Quay Son River bent towards a lush rice paddy fields etc., and the vibrant traditional culture of the ethnic minority.
Cycling in Vietnam is a unique and outstanding way to experience the daily life of Vietnamese people, discover the ancient culture and colourful tribal people, uncover the world's cultural and natural heritage sites, meet with friendly and hospitable people.enjoy one of the most delicious food in the world. Vietnam North East Tours offers for highlighted landmarks such as Hanoi, Bac Ha, Hoang Su Phi, Ban Gioc Waterfall, Bai Tu Long crystal sand beach, Halong/
You have great opportunity to experience breathtaking scenic beauty, admire seductive emerald beaches and enjoy rich traditional cuisine and stay on cruise to experience New Seven Wonders - Ha Long Bay.
If you are nature lover or passinate about exploration, definitely, Cao Bang Cycling loop is worth your time.
Immerse yourself in the wonderland and rugged mountains. Challenging the winding roads, high slopes, deep gorges, passing through peaceful villages, misty valleys to tranquil town where we stay in cosy accommodation. Tasting fresh and unique food in local restaurant every day.
Snail Adventure Tours is proud to be a reliable and experienced adventure tour operator, arranging unique and amazing cycling holidays for those who are looking for a once-in-a-lifetime cycling trip in the far north of Vietnam.

Day 01: Hanoi - Thai Nguyen – Ba Be lake

After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, leaving the hustle and bustle of the city behind, our shuttle bus will take a two hour transfer on the new highway in Thai Nguyen. Upon arrival at cycling point, we start cycling on tarmac road to untouched region of ATK (security zones) - name for Viet Minh revolutionary base.  We will cycle through peaceful village and breathtaking scenery.
On the way you will have a chance to visit paper making village. Have lunch in Bac Can, after lunch we start cycling from Bang Lung town to Ba Be, enjoying breathtaking scenery and lush village life. Upon arrival in Ba Be, check into home-stay and free time. Overnight at Home Stay in Ba Be (at the front of River View).
Summary:
Activities: Transferring and Warming cycling
Accommodations: Ba Be Riverside Bungalow 
Meals:L/D
Cycling distance:75 km
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/45655951

Day 02: Ba Be Lake – Na Hang  Nature Rerseve – Thuong Lam Ecovilage

Get up early to experience the stunning scenery over the lake or walk around the village to observe the daily life of the local people in the morning.
Have breakfast with our friendly host, set off from the village to cycle along the lake then take our boat trip to explore the stunning scenery and lake. We take turns to visit Widow's Island and an amazing waterfall before keeping on our pedals to cycle to Na Hang.
Na Hang is a mountainous district of Tuyen Quang Province where Na Hang Lake is located. With its primitive and mysterious beauty, Na Hang Lake has become a wonderful tourist destination.
Na Hang Lake is called "Ha Long Bay between high mountains and dense forests". There are 99 mountains with different shapes, fascinating all visitors.
The area around the lake has many spectacular spots, such as natural rock platforms in strange shapes, famous waterfalls such as Khuoi Sung, Khuoi Nhi and Pac Ban, which splash all year round, and Phien Bung forest, which acts as a green lung, making the climate in the area very pleasant.
Optional. For those who love challenging cycling route with hill rough and hilly road, we will cycle from the lake then ascending to Cao Thuong township where we start our really challenge our feet to summit of Na Hang mountain ranges. However, we will be rewarded with spectacular scenery and stunning views of the rice terraces. Rest and refuel before descending to Na Hang village. Dinner and overnight with hill tribe people.
Summary:
Activities: Transferring and cycling 
Accommodations: Ecohomestay
Meals:B/L/D
Cycling Distance: 65 Km
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/45655979

Day 03: Lam Binh – Ha Giang Cycling loop

Recharged by home-made breakfast, we start our new cycling adventure day from Eco-Homestay Village, hop on our bikes on scenic route, through primitive tropical forest, crystal clear water lake and cosy hill tribe villages to Ha Giang City.
We really enjoy the first twenty kilometres on gently flat and asphalted road along Tuyen Quang Reservoir, soaking up fresh air and primitive sightseeing over the lake in the morning.  We quickly leave Tuyen Quang Reservoir and tackle the first steep pass and winding road that marks the border between Tuyen Quang and Ha Giang. 
Arriving at the top we take a refreshment and enjoy the panoramic view over Tuyen Quang Lake. Our journey continues on single track to descend through tranquil villages and rice terraces to Vi Xuyen town. Lunch on the way.  After lunch, we kick off our bikes to cycle on concrete road along Gam River leading to Ha Giang City.  Arrive at hotel, check in and relax. Dinner and overnight in Ha Giang.
Summary:
Activities: Cycling from Village - Hotel
Accommodations: Yen Bien Luxury Hotel
Meals:B/L/D
Cycling Distance: 76 Km
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/45656000

Day 04: Ha Giang  Cycle Tour Yen Minh

After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, we're off on our next adventure! This morning, we're setting out of town on a cycling journey through the stunning landscape of terraced rice paddy fields. The road winds gently, taking us on a 25km journey of discovery. We're off again! Passing through minority villages, we cycle the next 25km up winding roads into the vast limestone mountain range with its perpendicular walls of rock. We're climbing 800m towards the mountain road pass "Heaven Gate 1" – what an adventure! As we pass through mountain villages sometimes covered by cloud, we'll be greeted with a friendly smile by the local communities. 
From the pass, we can enjoy absolutely amazing views, including the famous Tam Son Valley with its incredible Twin Hills and we can even see Quan Ba town!  Then it's time for lunch on the summit, where you'll enjoy the most incredible, picturesque scenery! After lunch, we're off again on our bikes! We'll be riding down to the river and then along to Gam River until we meet another pass. We start off with a few km of climbing, but then it's on to a 10km descent and then 10km of relatively flat terrain. It's a challenging up-and-down terrain to an altitude of 1.025m, but it's totally worth it! We then have a final descent for the last 15km into Yenh Minh. Along the way, we'll get to see the traditional homes of the local hill tribes. The communities in this area are Chinese.
Summary: 
Activity;Cycling and Transferring
Accommodation: Phuong Dong Hotel*** 
Meals:B/L/D
Cycling distance: 98 Km

Day 05: Yen Minh  Bike Tour Mau Due – Lung Phin - Dong Van

Today is an amazing day for cycling in the incredible Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark! We took a detour onto a minor road that took us on a lovely, rolling route before descending into the valley. Here we have the amazing opportunity to ride through tiny hill-tribe communities and eventually reach a bustling village market where we will find a dazzling array of brightly-costumed villagers trading everything from piglets to bamboo shoots and forest fodder.
After following a river for a short while, we come across the ruins of an ancient defensive wall. Just beyond, we start to climb! A gradient similar to the day before is a fantastic warm-up before the main climb to come after lunch. As we enter the Ha Giang Plateau, the scenery is nothing short of mind-blowing – it's even more impressive than before! At each stage, you find yourself wondering how on earth you could possibly continue to climb when you've already climbed so much, but it just goes on and on with an amazing variety of scenery! When you finally descend into Dong Van, you'll be ready for a beer and a feast! And you'll be so tired from the epic Ha Giang Plateau climb that you'll sleep like a baby.
Summary: 
Activity: cycling and Visiting
Accommodation: Hoa  Cuong Dong Van Hotel***
http://kshoacuong.vn/
Meals:B/L/D
Cycling distance: 64 Km
Elevation gain at: + 2,271m + 23.4% - 1,631m-23.0
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/45857804

Day 06: Dong Van – Ma Phi Leng – Meo Vac – Khau Vai – Bao Lac.

The town centre of Dong Van and Meo Vac is alive with activity every day thanks to a vibrant market that is a hive of activity, with the White Hmong, Tay and Lo Lo hill tribes coming together to trade and socialise. Women dressed in their brightly coloured traditional clothing walk into the town, their bamboo-woven baskets laden with corn and vegetables, their faces beaming with pride at the bounty they have gathered. 
Today we're taking on a remote mountain road to conquer the incredible pass of Ma Phi Leng, which connects Dong Van and Meo Vac. The views are absolutely incredible as we cycle up the slope of the mountain to admire the extraordinary sights and reflect on the crystal-clear waters of the Nho Que River. Get ready to enjoy the first two km on a flat road that leads out of Dong Van Town, then gear up for a challenging 7 km ascending ride on a winding road with sharp turns to the top!  Then it's time for the best part: cycling 16 km downhill to Meo Vac town! Upon arriving in Meo Vac, get ready for the adventure of a lifetime! We'll regroup and conquer 7 km on steep passes to the summit before rolling down to the Khau Vai bamboo raft ferry.
The road then takes us on a relatively gentle uphill climb, which is followed by a descent along flat terrain for the final 30 km. We'll also get to see some amazing sights as we pass by local minority communities, where people are dressed in their vibrant tribal costumes. Don't miss the chance to stop on the side of the road and visit the local market or explore the daily life of the hill tribal people! And don't forget to enjoy a delicious lunch along the way! After lunch, we continue our journey along the Gam River, conquering a challenging pass before descending to the charming town of Bao Lac.
Summary: 
Activity: Cycling  from Hotel - Hotel
Accommodation: Thuy  Duong Hotel**
https://sites.google.com/site/khachsanthuyduong1/nha-hang-khach-san-tai-bao
Meals:B/L/D
Cycling distance: 86 Km
Distance:    86.29 km
Elevation:    + 2,662 m / - 3,532 m

Day 07: Bao Lac –Khau Coc Tra – Thong Nong – Pac Po

Get ready for an amazing cycling adventure today! It's going to be a challenging but rewarding day on the road. And the best part? You'll be treated to some incredible views and breathtaking scenery. Buckle up, it's going to be an unforgettable ride!
Start your day with a delicious breakfast of Vietnamese cuisine at a local restaurant. Then, it's time to hop on our bikes and embark on an exciting 12 km cycling adventure up a challenging steep pass! The wind whispers through the trees and caresses the rugged mountains. We stop often to capture the breathtaking views of deep valleys and rice terraces nestled along the hillsides. We race to the pinnacle of the mountain and plunge into the peaceful village below.
We're in for a treat! We're about to meet some long and tough hilly passes, winding their way through rugged and snaking mountains, from three storeys to 15 storeys high. Then, we'll descend into a dreamlike valley for a picnic lunch.
After recharging our energy, we'll gear up our bikes to challenge the last pass before descending to Thong Nong town. We'll turn on the secondary road and ride on an undulating road that leads to Pac Po.
Summary: 
Activity: Cycling and Transferring
Accommodation: Me Farmstay
Meals:B/L/D
Cycling 70 Km
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/45852031
Distance:    69.7 km
Elevation:    + 2261 M/ - 2,166m

Day 08: Pac Po – Nam Tra – Magic Eyes  Mountain -  Tra Linh

Today is the first day of the Cao Bang Cycling Loop, and we couldn't be more excited! We'll be setting off on our bikes from the hotel after recharging our energy. Let's get this party started! We're kicking off our pedals and spinning on tarmac road, wind our way along rugged limestone mountains and lush tobacco farms to Pac Po. Get ready for an exciting challenge as we ride up the gentle slope to the Pac Po monument!
The incredible Pac Po is nestled between towering mountain ranges and a sparkling stream, river, and border with China at the 108th milestone! The incredible Hochiminh made the brilliant decision to set up this area for the initial Vietnam Revolutionary.  A visit to this historical relic is a fantastic way to gain insight into the post-Vietnamese Revolution and Hochiminh's life!

After paying our respects to the predecessors and Ho Chi Minh, we get back on our bikes to cycle through a rustic hill tribal village and meander along the border belt to Nam Nhung commune for refreshment.
Our cycling adventure continues on a fantastic variety of terrain, including gravel roads, hidden paths and village roads, which will take us to the incredible Luu Ngoc Commune for a delicious picnic lunch!
Once we've recharged our energy, it's time to hop back on our bikes and embark on another incredible journey! We'll be navigating a scenic route, winding our way through magnificent limestone mountains, lush rice paddy fields, and idyllic rivers to Nam Tra Village and Magic Eyes Mountain.
Get ready to immerse yourself in a fairyland of majestic nature settings and admire a magical sunset hovering over the mountains! It's an incredible experience that will leave you speechless.
And now for something completely different! We leave the tranquil setting behind and set off on a single track trail, winding its way amongst rugged limestone mountains and streams to Cao Chuong village. Here, we turn onto a tarmac road that leads us to Tra Linh town.
Summary:
Activities: Transferring and cycling to Hotel
Accommodations: Duc Long Hotel**
Meals:B/L/D
Cycling distances: 60 Km
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/46969875
Distance:    67 km
Elevation:    + 1741 / - 1394 m

Day 09: Tra Linh – Ban Gioc

Get ready for an amazing day! On the second day, we'll embark on our Cao Bang cycling loop. Make sure you fuel up with a hearty breakfast because we're going to have an incredible day of exploring!
Get ready to embark on an amazing cycling adventure from the hotel! We'll be riding on a smooth tarmac road through the town, all the way to an intersection where we'll turn off onto a lovely secondary road. Then, it's time to gear up for a truly enchanting journey through a gently rolling hill road, surrounded by the serene beauty of a canopy forest.
Get ready to be blown away by the incredible scenery and breathtaking landscapes as we ride through the heart of Vietnam's Global Geopark!
Before arriving in Trung Khanh Town, we turn off on a dirt road and single track trail, weaving amongst rustic villages, majestic limestone mountains, breathtaking vistas, lush rice fields and green corn fields, all the way to the magnificent Jade Quay Son River.
Get ready to be blown away by the incredible sights and lush rice paddy fields as we ride along the border, cross the bamboo bridge, and cycle through the quaint villages and rice paddy fields.
Then it's off to the amazing Eco Homestay for lunch! After lunch, we have the amazing opportunity to cycle along the river to Ban Gioc Waterfall or go kayaking along the Quay Son River! Then it's time for dinner and an overnight stay at the amazing Ban Gioc Resort!
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/42097080
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 10: Ban Gioc -  Quang Uyen

Get up early to catch a glimpse of the absolutely spectacular Ban Gioc Waterfall! Ban Gioc is an absolute must-see! It's the world's fourth biggest border-crossing waterfall and is absolutely stunning. The blue sky, the great limestone mountains and the stunning rice fields are a sight to behold, and you can even see the daily life going on.  After a delicious breakfast at the hotel, we're ready to hit the road again! We'll be following the border to Hanh Lang town.
Today is another fantastic day for us! We'll conquer some hilly passes and sharp turns on the way. But the best is yet to come! We'll be treated to some truly spectacular sights and landscapes.
The first stage is an amazing undulating route along the river and rice paddies, through peaceful villages. The second stage is really challenging but so rewarding when we conquer three steep passes! And now for something really special! We'll be stopping for a picnic lunch at the third stop. After lunch, we'll cycle down a newly paved road that leads to Quang Uyen Town. When you arrive, make sure you check in and then relax for dinner time!
Summary:
Activities: Cycling 
Accommodations:Hung Dung Hotel**
Meals: B/L/D
Cycling distances: 40 - 60Km

Day 11: Quang Uyen -  Phia Thap –  Trung Vuong - Cao Bang Cycling Loop

After a delicious breakfast, we set off on our next adventure: a journey to Cao Bang city! We then have the amazing opportunity to cycle some distances on the main road before turning off onto a village road that leads to a paper-making village. Here, you'll be able to have a go at making your own paper using a process that the locals have been using for generations! As we ride through the villages, we soak up the peaceful atmosphere and take in the wonderful landscapes. We then continue our journey on a fantastic single track that will take us to Phia Thap, then Tu Do Commune, Ha Tri and Trung Vuong Commune. You'll get to experience the incredible, colourful hill tribes villages along the way. You'll also have the chance to meet and chat with the friendly locals to learn more about their fascinating way of life.
And now, we'll meet our support vehicle, which will be on hand to fill up our water bottles and provide some refreshing drinks! And now for the next part of our adventure! We'll be cycling on a tarmac road that will take us straight to Cao Bang city. And then it's off to Cao Bang city for dinner and an overnight stay!
Summary:
Activities: Cycling and Visiting
Accommodations: MuongThanh Hotel*****
Meals:B/L/D
Cycling distances: 60 Km
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/43078495
Distance:    59.2 km
Elevation:    + 1036 / - 1300 m

Day 12: Cao Bang Cycle Tour – Lang Son

We'll start our new cycling day with breakfast at the hotel. Then, we'll set off on our next adventure: a journey from the hotel to Lang Son on historical National Road 4D via That Khe and Dong Khe town. As you cycle, you'll have the chance to see the former battlefields of Dong Khe and That Khe, where the Vietnamese fought against the French in 1950. You'll also get to see the opening of a new chapter in the war against the French troops in Vietnam, which led to the liberation of the country in 1954. And there's more! The cyclists will also enjoy the exotic scenery, sublime mountain ranges and picturesque rice terraces. And now for something really special! Have lunch on the route. After lunch, we conquer a challenging pass to That Khe and then enjoy a beautiful, rolling road that leads us to the vibrant city of Lang Son.  Then it's time for dinner and an overnight stay at the fantastic Muong Thanh Hotel!
Summary: 
Activity: Cycling and Transferring 
Accommodation: Muong Thanh Lang Son****
http://langson.muongthanh.com/en/home.html
Meals: B/L/D
Cycling distance: 76km/ 132Km

Day 13: Lang Son – Halong Cycling Tours

Get up early in the morning to soak up the vibrant atmosphere of the city of Lang Son. Wander to the local market to see the amazing variety of Vietnamese and Chinese agricultural products being traded. Time to head back to the hotel for breakfast! Time to check out of your hotel! 
Next stop: Halong Bay! One of the most magnificent scenic environments in the world! Spanning an incredible 577 square miles, this vast bay is home to more than 3,000 magnificent limestone "peaks" or karsts, which rise from the deep blue water as far as the eye can see. We'll spend an incredible day and a half, including an overnight stay with dinner and breakfast on board, exploring this breathtaking seascape from the decks of a traditional Vietnamese boat. Your boat is the epitome of comfort and intimacy, boasting hand-crafted wooden interiors, a dining room, and air-conditioned cabins with private baths. The best part is that we'll be staying overnight on the water, which means we'll have the chance to explore Ha Long Bay's most beautiful spots at our leisure. We'll even have time to swim and visit some of the largest rock formations and caves! This is set to be one of your most unforgettable travel experiences in Asia! You'll get to stay overnight on the boat!
Summary: 
Activity: Transferring and Exploring Halong Bay
Accommodation: Aspira Cruise*****
Meals:B/L/D
Cycling distance: No

Day 14: Halong Bay – Hanoi - Onward

Rising to the sound of lapping bay waters, we jump in for an early morning dip followed by breakfast! Sitting on the upper deck, you can relax and take in the absolutely breathtaking beauty of the rocky islands rising from the emerald water of the bay. After breakfast, it's time for the adventure of a lifetime! Explore Sung Sot Cave, swim and relax. Then it's back to the jetty for brunch as we cruise through the bay, taking in more of the fascinating formations along the way! Time to check out of the cruise! Then it's time to say goodbye! Meet our van and transfer directly to Noi Bai Airport to catch your flight on Wards. We've enjoyed serving you and wish you a safe journey!
Summary: 
Activity; Transferring Only
Accommodation: On Wards
Meals:B/L
Cycling distance: No

Note: Hotels  are subject to change due to availability. In that case we will choose equivalent  hotels
Meals: if you have any specific food requirements ( vegetarian, vegan, food allergies) please inform us in advance so that we can provide notice to our restaurant, tour guide, our partners so that they can server you better. If you are a food lover, Snail Adventure tours can be your culinary guide and provide you opportunity to savor tempting local food and world famous – dishes.

Tour included in:

English speaking cycling guide ( other languages upon requests)
Accommodations are based on double/ twin occupancy
Meals details in itineraries ( 14 breakfast, 14lunches, 14 dinners)
A/C transfer/ and transportation
Van or bus supported during the cycling times.
Truck supported for the group size from 6 and above.
Trek mountain bikes – 4300  with disc brake and  helmets or Trek Hybrid FX
Sightseeing excursions as outlined itineraries
Bike tour pump, bike tools, spares tubes, spare bikes
First aid kit
Cold water box, small fresh towel.
Mineral water for drinking
Fruit and snack for cycling days
Permission Paper in Ha Giang and Ban Gioc
Night Cruise on Ha Long Bay

Tour excluded in:

International airfare
Travel insurance
Items of personal nature
Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks in meals
Mineral water beyond that supplied
Optional excursions
Additional transport required due to any emergency situation
Personal expenses such as telephone, laundry bills.
Visa fee
Departure  tax
Tip for team and guide

Creating Unique Touring Experiences:

All the touring itineraries on this website have been carefully crafted by our in-country management teams and represent a series of experiences we can certainly recommend. However, we understand that every travel experience should be as unique and individual as each traveler. Our consultants are waiting to hear from you so that we can tailor or custom design a Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar tour to your individual specifications.