Cycling in northern Vietnam is an absolutely amazing way to explore the region’s breathtaking landscapes and rich culture. Known for its gorgeous mountainous scenery, the northern part of Vietnam offers rolling hills, rugged mountain ranges, and challenging routes that are perfect for cycling adventures.

Our 14-day Vietnam Backroads Bicycle Tours takes you through some of the most stunning and unique locations in Vietnam, where you’ll experience the country's diverse landscapes and vibrant cultural heritage. The tour not only offers an opportunity to cycle through these scenic mountain passes and cross dreamy valleys but also lets you dive into local life by interacting with the hill tribes and discovering their rural way of life. We’ll cycle 885 km across varying gradients and mixed terrain, winding through steep passes, valleys, and green rice fields that define the region.

Starting from Sapa, the lovely hilltop town, we cycle through Muong Khuong in Lao Cai, before embarking on the border belt road, a challenging yet exciting route where we’ll be greeted by the welcoming tribal people. As we venture deeper into northeast Vietnam, the Ha Giang region awaits, one of the most anticipated stops on our Vietnam Backroads Bicycle tour.

Known for its Happiness Road, Dong Van Plateau, and the Khau Vai Love Market, this area offers majestic, twisting passes, high mountains, and simple villages hidden in the clouds. Ha Giang is a hidden gem, offering spectacular scenery with primeval forests, natural fortresses, and rocky plateaus divided by picturesque stone alleys. The Ha Giang rocky plateau features challenging roads that are as beautiful as they are thrilling to cycle, offering a poetic and mysterious landscape that captivates every cyclist's heart.

Day 01: Hanoi Arrival and Transfer to Sapa Cycling Tour. 

Welcome to Hanoi, the vibrant capital of Vietnam! After your flight, our driver and team will be there to greet you and assist with your luggage. We’ll begin our journey to Sapa via the new highway, offering breathtaking views of northern Vietnam’s landscapes as we make our way through mountainous terrain and picturesque valleys. Along the way, we’ll stop for a delicious lunch, where you can sample some authentic Vietnamese cuisine. After lunch, we’ll continue our journey to Lao Cai, a charming border city known for its cultural richness. You’ll have a chance to explore the Lao Cai border gate and take some memorable photos before we head up to Sapa Hill Station. Once in Sapa, we’ll check in and enjoy a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, soaking in the beauty of this hilltop town. This marks the start of your Vietnam cycling adventure through Sapa's stunning landscapes.
Summary:
Activity: Picking up andTransferring 
Accommodation: Sapa Bamboo hotel***
Meals:L/D
Transferring distance: 380 Km

Day 02: Sapa  Cycle Tour valley and hill tribe track 

After a delicious breakfast at the hotel, get ready for an exciting day of cycling through Sapa Valley and its stunning hill tribe villages. Our journey begins with a descent from the hotel down into the magnificent Muong Hoa Valley, known for its breathtaking rice terraces, vibrant hill tribe villages, and awe-inspiring scenic landscapes. As we venture away from the tourist areas of Sapa, we’ll cycle along off-the-beaten-track roads, including single tracks and dirt paths, crossing a suspension bridge to reach Lao Chai – Ta Van Village. Along the way, we’ll interact with friendly locals, offering a chance to learn about their unique cultural heritage and traditional way of life. After crossing the bridge back to the paved road, we’ll head towards Su Pan, continuing through Den Thang, Thanh Kim, and Thanh Phu before stopping for a delicious lunch with a local family. After lunch, we’ll cycle through picturesque villages and streams, following single tracks and dirt roads to reach the Nam Cang Riverside Lodge, where we’ll stay overnight with a welcoming Dao family. Enjoy a traditional dinner together before heading to your cozy homestay for a peaceful night in the heart of Sapa.
Summary:
Activity: Cycling
Accommodation: Nam Cang Riverside Ecolodge
Meals:B/L/D
Cycling distance: 56 Km

Day 03: Nam Cang  mountain bikeThanh Phu – Gia phu – Vinh Yen

Start your day early with the opportunity to engage in local activities or simply enjoy a peaceful walk through the village, taking in the serene surroundings. Savor a delicious breakfast of traditional pancakes and banana cake, paired with soothing herbal tea, before we embark on our exciting cycling adventure from the homestay. Our route takes us through picturesque villages, lush rice terraces, tranquil streams, and even a buffalo road leading us to the charming towns of Sin Chai A, Thanh Phu, Nam Cang, Nam Sai, and Suoi Thau. Along the way, we’ll stop for a tasty lunch in Suoi Thau, surrounded by the beauty of Vietnamese countryside. After lunch, we’ll continue on an undulating route, tackling a steep pass as we approach the Xuan Giao Section, where the limestone mountains and peaceful hill tribe villages provide a truly stunning backdrop. Once we’ve completed this scenic stretch, our support vehicle will meet us, and we’ll head to our ecolodge in the Cinnamon Forest, where you can check in and enjoy a traditional dinner.
Summary:
Activity: Cycling from Village - Village
Accommodation: Cinnamon Ecolodge
Meals:B/L/D
Cycling distance: 56 Km

Day 04: Vinh Yen – Nghia Do – Ban Lien – Bac Ha Bike Tour

Today is going to be an unforgettable day of cycling through northern Vietnam, filled with scenic beauty and rich cultural experiences! Prepare to be amazed by the lush rice terraces, vibrant hill tribal villages, and unspoiled nature as we cycle through this stunning region. After a hearty breakfast at the ecolodge, we’ll begin our adventure, cycling along a paved road for 20 km to the Nghia Do section, where we’ll switch to a thrilling single track trail and dirt paths. The ride ahead will challenge us with a steep hill road, as we pass serene villages and breathtaking rice terraces on our way to Tan Tien Commune.

This is the start of our journey through the northernmost region of Vietnam, known for its jaw-dropping landscapes. Next, we’ll take on the challenging 12 km ride from Tan Xuan to the summit of Ban Lien pass, where the real adventure begins. Once we reach the peak, we’ll enjoy an exhilarating descent into Ban Lien village, where we’ll have a well-deserved picnic lunch.

After recharging, we’ll continue our cycling journey, tackling another 10 km of steep mountain passes that wind through tropical forests and mountainous terrain. The reward for this effort? Panoramic views of the Nam Khanh valley, offering a truly dreamlike landscape. To finish off the day, we’ll descend to the hydropower plant dam before heading up a short undulating road that leads us into the vibrant town of Bac Ha, completing an action-packed and unforgettable day of Vietnam cycling.

Summary:
Activities:Cycling from village - Hotel
Accommodation: Legend Home Eco
Meals:B/L/D
Cycling distance: 55 Km
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/45078523

Day 05: Bac Ha  cycle tour Ta Van Chu  - Sin Chen – Si Ma Cai – Bac Ha

After recharging at the hotel, we’ll hop back on our bikes to tackle the rough, narrow roads leading to Ban Pho village, where you’ll get a glimpse of the beautiful Hmong architecture and experience daily life in this charming village. Continuing on a smooth concrete road, we’ll wind our way through picturesque valleys and local villages, eventually heading downhill into the deep Hoang Thu Pho valley. The journey doesn’t stop there—soon we’ll climb again towards Ta Van Chu village, where you’ll enjoy the sight of blooming plum gardens and pear plantations. Cycling through single track trails and dirt roads, you’ll pass vibrant rice fields, traditional homes, and have the chance to connect with the friendly villagers.

Next, we’ll gear up for a lovely 12 km ride on a scenic local trail leading to Quan Than San, followed by a left turn onto a thrilling single track trail to the summit of Nan Sin. From here, we’ll embark on an exciting 12 km descent, winding down through single track trails and beaten paths until we reach the lively Sin Chen Market and the quaint Si Ma Cai township. You’ll get to experience local life firsthand and enjoy a delicious picnic lunch hosted by the warm and welcoming Flower Hmong community during your authentic homestay experience. Afterward, we’ll continue cycling on secondary roads and through village paths, making our way back to Can Cau and Lung Phinh commune before returning to the hotel to relax after another incredible day of Vietnam cycling.

Summary:
Activities: Cycling
Accommodations: Bac Ha Hotel
Meals: B/L/D
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/42421631
Distance:    81.0 km
Elevation:    + 2821 / - 2818 m

Day 06: Bac Ha – Coc Pai – Thong Nguyen

Today, we’re back on our bikes, embarking on an exciting cycling adventure to Xin Man, one of the most remote and picturesque areas of northeastern Vietnam! The ride begins with a gentle 10 km climb, gaining about 400 meters on a newly sealed road. After that, we’ll turn onto a rugged, unsealed track for the next 15 km, cycling through the stunning rural tribal areas of Vietnam. Get ready for the highlight of the day: a thrilling descent of 1,000 meters into Xin Man, a hidden gem nestled in the wild mountains and forests along the Vietnam/China border.

Xin Man is home to a diverse mix of 15 ethnic groups, including the Nung, Flower H'mong, Tay, La Chi, Kinh, and Hoa. After a traditional lunch, we’ll continue our ride across the Chay River and enjoy 40 km of peaceful cycling along a quiet road, where you’ll have the opportunity to admire the serene beauty of the river. The gentle incline as we approach Hoang Su Phi offers stunning views of the river and surrounding landscapes, making every pedal worth it.

Summary:
Activities: Cycling from Hotel - Hotel
Accommodation : Pan Hou Ecolodge***
Meals: B/L/D
Cycling Distance: 78km

Day 07: Thong Nguyen – Ho Thau Cycling Adventure

Imagine waking up to the vastness of nature, breathing in fresh mountain air, and watching the morning mists swirl over the dreamy valleys—it's an experience you'll never forget! After a delicious Vietnamese breakfast to recharge, it’s time to hop on your bike and embark on a new cycling adventure! We’ll start our day by cycling down a scenic single track trail, winding through terraced fields, peaceful villages, and crossing small streams that lead to irrigation canals nourishing the golden rice fields nestled in the hills.

Today, we’re cycling through the golden season of Hoang Su Phi, one of Vietnam’s most picturesque regions. We’ll spend most of the day cycling through the heart of the rice fields, with terraces stretching from the mountain tops all the way down into the valleys. It’s a spectacular sight, where majestic landscapes and natural beauty unfold at every turn. We’ll continue along a steep 14 km hill road towards Nam Khoa Heaven Gate, a truly gorgeous stretch, where you’ll be surrounded by thick rainforest and narrow terraced rice paddies clinging to the steep hillsides.

After a quick break, we’ll descend another 10 km on a dirt track, cycling along the beautiful Nam Khoa Valley. As we pass through small villages like Zao and Nung, you’ll be treated to stunning views of tea farms, plantations, and lush terraced rice paddies. The scenery here is simply breathtaking. When we reach the junction of the Nam Khoa River, we’ll turn left and follow an 8 km narrow dirt track that winds its way up and down the steep hillsides, leading us to Ban Luoc, where we’ll wrap up another unforgettable day of cycling through Vietnam’s rural beauty.

Summary:
Activities: Cycling from hotel to Hotel
Accommodation: Ho Thau Eco Village/ Tay Con Linh Hotel
Meals:B/L/D
Cycling distance:  67 km/

Day 08: Vinh Quang – Tung San – Thuong Son – Ban Me  - Ha Giang Cycling Loop

Hoang Su Phi is one of the most untouched and remote regions in Vietnam, where communities have lived in complete isolation from mainstream society until recently. This magical place, situated at an average elevation of 800 meters above sea level, is known for its high mountains, deep valleys, winding streams, and lush forestland. It offers outstanding natural beauty and a glimpse into unspoiled traditional life. Today, we’re tackling the incredible challenge of cycling over the Heaven Gate 2 mountain pass, which sits at 895 meters elevation, en route to Tan Minh. The pass offers breathtaking panoramic views beneath a wide-open sky, making it one of the most scenic stretches of the journey!

The adventure continues as we follow the tarmac for 25 km heading north, before turning onto a dirt track that climbs uphill to Tay Con Linh, the second highest mountain range in Vietnam. For the next two hours, you’ll be immersed in stunning mountain views as we make our way to the top of the pass, passing through small villages of the Zao peoples. Once at the summit, we’ll enjoy a well-deserved lunch break, taking in the peaceful atmosphere and incredible scenery.

After recharging, we’ll hop back on our bikes and descend onto a new paved road, winding along a scenic stream surrounded by wild nature. As we cycle for nearly three hours, we’ll pass through the picturesque terraced rice fields of Thuong Son commune, home to the Nung and Zao ethnic groups, offering another unforgettable glimpse into Vietnam’s rich rural culture and ethnic diversity.

Summary:
Activities: Cycling from hotel to Hotel
Accommodation: Ha Giang Wing Bungalow
Meals:B/L/D
Cycling distance: 74km/ `126 Km
Elevation gain at: 4,340M + 32.3% - 4,869M – 27.8%
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/45745786

Day 09: Ha Giang  Cycle Tour Quan Ba – Yen Minh

This morning, we’re setting off full of excitement for another thrilling cycling adventure! As we leave Ha Giang behind, we’ll cycle through the breathtaking terraced rice paddy fields, taking in the stunning landscapes of northern Vietnam. Along the way, we’ll have the incredible opportunity to visit minority villages, where we’ll learn about the rich culture of the local communities.

We’ll then embark on a challenging 25 km ascent, cycling up winding roads into the majestic limestone mountain range with its dramatic rock formations. As we climb 800 meters toward the mountain pass, known as Heaven Gate, we’ll pass through mountain villages that are often shrouded in mist. The warm greetings from the local communities will make our journey even more memorable! Once at the top of the pass, we’ll enjoy panoramic views, including the iconic Tam Son Valley and its famous Twin Hills, as well as Quan Ba town, nestled in a stunning location.

The last 15 km into Quan Ba are mostly downhill, giving us a well-deserved break before lunch in the town. After recharging, we’ll continue our journey with a series of climbs and descents. We’ll cycle uphill for the first few kilometers before descending for about 10 km. The terrain then flattens for the next 10 km before a final ascent to an altitude of 1,025 meters. The day concludes with a thrilling descent into Yen Minh, where we’ll have the chance to admire the traditional homes of the local Chinese hill tribes.

Summary:
Activities: Cycling from Hotel - Hotel
Meals: B/L/D
Accommodation: Phuong Dong Hotel***
Cycling Distance: 97 km

Day 10: Yen Minh Climb over the Rocky Plateau to Dong Van, 

Today, we’re embarking on an exciting cycling adventure along quiet roads, with a thrilling climb out of the dense cedar forest and onto the rugged Dong Van Plateau. This remarkable region is a UNESCO Global Geopark, and it’s easy to see why! Covering 80% of the area, the rocky terrain is home to fossils dating back 400-600 million years, adding to its unique geological significance.

The charming town of Dong Van sits nestled in a valley at the heart of the Rock Plateau, close to the Chinese border. Surrounded by lush mountain forests and vibrant multi-colored orchids, the town is home to a rich mix of ethnic groups, including the Chinese Hoa, H'mong, Tay, and Kinh people. The traditional Chinese-style houses here are a true testament to the area’s rich cultural heritage.

As we continue our ride from Dong Van to Meo Vac, we’ll cycle along a beautiful, winding road next to a vast gorge. The route offers spectacular views, with the Nho Que River flowing far below. We’ll ride up to the Ma Phi Leng Pass, where we’ll be rewarded with panoramic views from an altitude of 1500 meters looking down into the valley. Tonight, we’ll stay in the picturesque town of Meo Vac, a place where many local tribes have preserved their traditional ways of life, largely untouched by outside influences. This isolation was maintained until the recent construction of new roads, making Meo Vac a hidden gem.

Summary:
Activities: Cycling from Hotel - Hotel
Accommodation: Hoa Cuong Dong Van Hotel***
Meals: B/L/D
Cycling Distance: 68km

Day 11: Dong Van to Lung Cu Flag Pole – Ma Pi Leng Pass – Meo Vac Cycling Tour

Get ready for an unforgettable cycling adventure in the heart of the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, a UNESCO Global Geopark renowned for its stunning karst landscape. After a hearty breakfast, we’ll kick off the day with a visit to the vibrant hill tribe market nearby, where you’ll experience the local culture firsthand. We’ll then embark on the Happiness Road, cycling toward the majestic Dong Van, offering breathtaking views of the pristine karst plateau scenery.

Our first stop will be the Hmong King Palace (Vuong Chi Sinh Palace), a significant historical site, followed by a visit to the Lung Cu Flag Pole—the northernmost point of Vietnam. Cycling along the scenic road from Dong Van to Meo Vac, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the vast gorge, with the winding Nho Que River below. The Ma Pi Leng Pass offers stunning vistas from 1500 meters above the valley floor.

Tonight, we’ll stay in the quaint town of Meo Vac, where the local hill tribes have maintained their traditional way of life, largely untouched by modern influence. Meo Vac remained isolated until the recent construction of new roads, making it an authentic, unspoiled gem of northern Vietnam.

Summary: 
Activity: cycling and Visiting
Accommodation: Hoa  Cuong meo Vac hotel
http://kshoacuong.vn/
Meals:B/L/D
Cycling distance: 56 Km

Day 12: Meo Vac  Bike Ride  Mau Due  - Du Gia

Prepare for an unforgettable day of cycling as we explore the stunning Dong Van geological plateau! Start your day with a hearty breakfast to fuel up for an epic adventure through Du Gia Valley, a hidden gem in northern Vietnam.

Our cycling journey begins in the charming Meo Vac, a picturesque border town nestled in the Dong Van Karst Plateau. From here, we’ll tackle a challenging 5 km climb, gaining over 200 meters in altitude along a gravel road, before navigating concrete zigzags through towering cliffs on the way to Sa Phin Village. This part of the route is an absolute highlight, as we cycle past majestic cat-eared rocky mountains and through a mysterious forest of sharp, high rocks, creating a scene that’s both poetic and awe-inspiring—reminiscent of ancient rock paintings.

Descending into the valley, we’ll cross the M-pass, a scenic route that connects both sides of the Dong Van mountain range, leading us to Mau Due Valley for a well-deserved lunch. After recharging, we’ll take on two more passes, Mau Due Lung Ho Summit and the final stretch down into the lush Du Gia Valley. Along the way, the stunning natural scenery, including valleys, towering mountains, and vibrant landscapes, will keep us motivated as we power through the last leg of the journey.

Summary: 
Activity: Cycling from Hotel - Hotel
Accommodation: Du Gia Stream Lodge
Meals:B/L/D
Cycling distance: 72 Km

Day 13: Du Gia – Lung Ho – Thai An – Thuan Hoa – Ha Giang Cycle Loop

Kick off your day with a delicious breakfast at a local Vietnamese restaurant, and get ready for a thrilling cycling adventure through the stunning landscapes of northern Vietnam. Today’s route takes us through an incredible mountain pass to the Lung Ho Summit, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of rugged rocky mountain ranges and the picturesque Lung Ho Valley. Immerse yourself in the magic of a sunrise over the valley, as you cycle through charming local villages and dreamlike landscapes.

The road to the summit is a true challenge, with winding curves and switchbacks that make the journey even more rewarding. After a quick refreshment break, we’ll descend into Lung Ho Commune before veering off the main road to cycle through narrow valleys, dotted with cornfields and groundnut plantations.

Next, we’ll face the second steep hill of the day—an exhilarating ascent that leads us through lush canopy forests and up to the summit. After another break, we’ll explore the mystical valleys, enjoying a picnic lunch surrounded by the natural beauty of Ha Giang. After recharging, we’ll power through the final stretch to Thai An and continue our journey to Ha Giang Town.

Once we arrive, we’ll check in at our hotel, relax, and take some time to explore the city, known for its local beer and vibrant culture. We’ll end the day with a delicious dinner and an overnight stay in Ha Giang, ready for the next leg of our adventure.

Summary: 
Activity: Cycling  from Hotel – Hotel.
Accommodation: Ha Giang Wing
Meals:B/L/D
Cycling distance: 97  Km  
Total Ascend/ descend: + 2,941M – 3,211M
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/45638921

Day 14: Ha Giang  bike tour Hanoi

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel before we bid farewell to the stunning mountain passes and hilltops of Ha Giang Province. Today, we’ll cycle through the picturesque lowlands, where the scenery is simply breathtaking. The route offers a beautiful mix of winding roads and serene village paths, as we make our way to the Tan Quang section. Along the way, enjoy the tranquil beauty of rural Vietnam and immerse yourself in the peaceful landscapes.

We’ll take a well-deserved break and enjoy lunch at a cozy local restaurant, recharging before the journey continues. Afterward, we’ll load our bikes onto the truck and make our way back to Hanoi, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences of our cycling adventure in northern Vietnam.

Summary: 
Activity: Cycling  from Hotel – transfer to Hanoi.
Accommodation. The Light hotel****
Meals:B/L/D
Cycling distance: 76 Km
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/42595331
Distance:    76.8 km
Elevation:    + 1404 / - 1440 m
 
Important Notes:

We strongly recommend the purchase of travel insurance (covering emergency medical evacuation) for trips to Vietnam.
Tour cost will be valided during 45 days from date of offer. Past this date price and conditions may be readjusted.
The cost of air tickets is subject to change without prior notice by the airlines.
Reservations during peak times (Christmas, New Year, Vietnamese Lunar New Year, National Holidays) may be subject to supplementary charges.
Rooms at hotels are available only from 14:00 P.m on arrival day till 10:00 A.m on departure date. A supplement will be added if early check-in or late check-out is desired.
Please note that all the above services & tours have yet to be booked, they are proposed for your information only and we will not make any reservations before we receive your confirmation to do so. If one or some proposed service(s) is (are) not available at the moment of booking, we will try to find other possibilities/options or other similar service(s) in order to avoid changes to the program.

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 languges upon requests)
Accommodations are based on double/ twin occupancy
Meals details in itineraries (14 breakfast, 14 lunches, 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.
Sightseeing excursions as outlined itineraries
Bike tour pump, bike tools, spares tubes, spare bikes
Permission Papers in Ha Giang and Hoangs u Phi
First aid kit
Cold water box, small fresh towel.
Mineral water for drinking
Fruit and snack for cycling days

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.
 Mountainbike trek, or Hibryd Trek FX 3 Bike
Ebike
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.