15-Day Northern Vietnam Adventure Tour: Cycling, Trekking, and Ethnic Culture Exploration

Northern Vietnam is the ultimate destination for adventurous travelers seeking breathtaking landscapes, winding roads, spectacular mountain passes, and a chance to experience the colorful ethnic minorities that have called this region home for centuries. Our 14-Day North Vietnam Adventure Tour offers the perfect mix of cycling and trekking through stunning valleys, rugged mountains, and ethnic villages. You’ll encounter friendly hill tribes, discover hidden gems, and explore some of the most scenic areas in far North Vietnam.

Why Choose Our North Vietnam Adventure Tour?

Our 15-day scenic bicycle route has been meticulously crafted by our experienced team to provide both physical challenges and opportunities for cultural immersion. This carefully designed bicycle holiday will lead you through untouched regions where you can explore ethnic minorities, vibrant hill tribe cultures, and jaw-dropping landscapes. Pedal through limestone mountain ranges, capture the mesmerizing views of rice terraces, and encounter local cultures like never before. Cycling through the mountainous roads is an experience of a lifetime—full of twists, turns, and epic panoramic views.

Day 01: Hanoi – Pu Luong Nature Reserve

Start your adventure tour with a hearty breakfast in Hanoi, followed by a scenic drive to Pu Luong Nature Reserve. Along the way, enjoy views of traditional Muong villages, towering limestone mountains, and lush green rice paddies. Upon arrival at your eco-lodge, enjoy a delicious lunch before heading out for an adventurous afternoon of trekking through Ban Cong Village. Explore the rustic villages, admire the stunning scenery, and experience traditional rafting along the river. End your day with a cozy dinner and overnight stay at the Pu Luong Boutique Garden Lodge.

Summary:
Activities: Fullday Trekking trip and Rafting    
Accommodations: Pu Luong Ecogarden Ecolodge***
Meals:B/L/D
Cycling/ Trekking distances: 4 – 6 Km

Day 02: Pu Luong Hiking Trail

Embrace the natural beauty of Pu Luong as you embark on a full day of hiking through picturesque rice terraces and local villages. As you walk through the verdant valley, admire the views of towering mountains, tranquil rivers, and local farms. After a peaceful picnic lunch, continue exploring the serene beauty of the area. Return to your eco-lodge for a refreshing break and dinner.

Summary:
Activities: Fullday Trekking trip and Rafting    
Accommodations: Pu Luong Ecogarden Ecolodge***
Meals:B/L/D
Cycling/ Trekking distances: 10 - 16 Km

Day 03: Pu Luong – Mai Chau – Moc Chau

Begin your day with a relaxing breakfast and then head to Mai Chau, a hidden valley renowned for its beautiful bamboo houses and green rice fields. Explore local ethnic villages like Poom Coong and Lac. After lunch, continue your journey to Moc Chau Plateau, a stunning region filled with green tea farms and plum forests. Experience a picturesque sunset over the plateau before returning to your accommodation for the evening.

Summary:
Activities: Transfer and Hiking
Accommodations: Emopea Resort/ Ecohoumestay
Meals:B/L/D
Transferring distance: 100 km/ Trekking 5 -7 Km

Day 04: Pu Luong to Moc Chau – Scenic Ride to the Highlands

On Day 4, leave Pu Luong and journey toward the cool highlands of Moc Chau. The drive is filled with spectacular views of mountains and rolling hills. Upon arrival, you’ll check into your accommodation and explore the Moc Chau plateau. Known for its beautiful tea plantations and stunning landscapes, Moc Chau is an excellent location for an exciting Moc Chau hiking experience. As you trek through the region, enjoy sweeping views of the countryside and vibrant green fields.

Summary:
Activities: 
Accommodations: Emopea Resort
Meals:B/L/D
Trekking  distance: 16 Km

Day 05: Moc Chau – Hiking and Nature Exploration

Day 5 is all about immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Moc Chau. Begin your day with a Moc Chau hiking tour, where you’ll explore the region’s famous tea plantations, visit local villages, and hike through dense forests. This region is known for its clear blue skies, rolling hills, and breathtaking viewpoints, perfect for both novice and seasoned trekkers. The landscape’s charm and serenity make Moc Chau hiking a must-do activity for nature enthusiasts.

Summary:
Activities:
Accommodations: Mu Cang  Chai  Resort/ Ecohomestay
Meals:B/L/D
Transferring distance:  220 Km

Day 06: Moc Chau to Mu Cang Chai – En Route to the Terraces

On Day 6, you’ll travel from Moc Chau to Mu Cang Chai, famous for its stunning terraced rice fields. As you cycle or trek through the region, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of lush valleys and the intricate rice terraces that cascade down the mountainside. The Mu Cang Chai hiking experience is one of the highlights of the tour, providing an opportunity to appreciate rural life in Vietnam’s most beautiful agricultural landscapes.

Summary:
Activities: Fully Day Trekking Tour
Accommodations: Mu Cang Chai Resort/ Ecohomestay
Meals:B/L/D
Transferring distance: 13 KM

Day 07: Mu Cang Chai – Hiking in the Heart of Vietnam's Rice Terraces

Day 7 focuses on exploring the iconic Mu Cang Chai rice terraces through a scenic and challenging hiking tour. The terraced fields of Mu Cang Chai are considered some of the most stunning landscapes in Vietnam. Trekking through this area will take you to remote villages and viewpoints that overlook the rice fields, giving you ample opportunities to take photographs and experience the beauty of rural Vietnam. This day is a real treat for nature lovers and avid trekkers alike.

Summary:
Activities: Transfer
Accommodations: Yty Ecolodge or Homestay
Meals: B/L/D
Transferring distance: 160 Km

Day 08: Mu Cang Chai to Y Ty – A Trek to the Misty Mountains

On Day 8, you’ll travel from Mu Cang Chai to Y Ty, a remote village nestled in the mountains. Y Ty is famous for its dramatic landscapes and misty peaks. Upon arrival, you’ll begin your Y Ty hiking adventure, trekking through lush forests, mountain slopes, and remote hamlets. Y Ty offers some of the most serene and untouched landscapes in Northern Vietnam, making it an excellent place for trekking and discovering the beauty of rural life.

Summary:
Activities:
Accommodations: Y ty Ecolodge/ Homestay
Meals:B/.L/D
Trekking distance: 18 Km

Day 09: Y Ty – Trekking and Cultural Immersion

Day 9 offers another full day of Y Ty hiking. Trek through beautiful mountain landscapes, visiting traditional villages and interacting with local ethnic minorities. The misty, remote region of Y Ty offers a unique opportunity to experience life in one of the most rural parts of Vietnam. The trek will reward you with stunning views and a sense of peace that only nature can provide.

Summary:
Activities: Tramsfer
Accommodations: Sao Mai Hotel
Meals:B/L/D
Transferring distance: 140 Km

Day 10: Y Ty to Bac Ha – Into the Heart of Local Markets

Start your day early by visiting the bustling local market in Y Ty, where vibrant hill tribe people from different regions gather to trade goods and engage in cultural exchanges. This is an incredible opportunity to experience the colorful culture and lifestyle of ethnic minorities. After the market visit, head towards Lung Po, where you can witness the Red River as it enters Vietnam.

Next, drive towards Cao Son Market, a quaint hill tribe market set among the scenic, rolling mountains. The market is filled with handicrafts and local products from the Flower H’mong, Black Zao, Nung, and Pa Di ethnic groups, creating a lively atmosphere. You’ll have the chance to interact with locals and learn about their traditional ways of life. After lunch at a local restaurant, we’ll visit Trung Do village, home to the Tay ethnic people, where we’ll embark on a peaceful boat ride along the river, exploring the stunning caves and vibrant riverbank life. This boat trip lasts 2-2.5 hours before we transfer to Bac Ha Town.

Summary:
Activities: Transfer and Trek
Accommodations: Ban Luoc Ecolodge/ Khanh Dinh
Meals:B/L/D
Transferring distance: 87 km

Day 11: Bac Ha to Ban Luoc – Exploring Traditional Villages

If you’re visiting on a Tuesday, Saturday, or Sunday, you’ll have the opportunity to explore one of the most vibrant hill tribe markets in the Bac Ha region. Known for its colorful costumes, the market is a lively gathering of highland people, including the Flower H'mong, who come to trade livestock, including buffaloes, cows, and horses. After exploring the market, we will continue to Hoang Su Phi, home to scenic terraced rice fields. In the afternoon, trek to the Ban Luoc village, known for its stilt houses and authentic local culture. Overnight stay in a Tay ethnic homestay.

Summary:
Activities: Trek and Transfer
Accommodations: Hoang Su Phi Ecolodge/ Hill home Ecolodge
Meals: B/L/D
Trekking distance 12 Km

Day 12: Ban Luoc to Thong Nguyen – Trekking in Northern Vietnam

On Day 12, you’ll head to Thong Nguyen, another peaceful village surrounded by beautiful mountains. Thong Nguyen trekking is an opportunity to explore remote landscapes and interact with local ethnic groups, while trekking through lush forests and valleys. This day offers a chance to experience the tranquility and beauty of Northern Vietnam’s rural life.

Summary:
Activities: Transferring back to Hanoi
Accommodations: The Light Hotel
Meals:B/L/D
Transferring distance: 240 Km

Day 13: Hanoi to Cat Ba Island – Island Adventure Begins

Day 13 takes you back to Hanoi before heading off to the coastal paradise of Cat Ba Island. Cat Ba Island offers stunning beaches, lush jungles, and a range of exciting activities like kayaking and trekking. Upon arrival, explore the natural beauty of the island and get ready for your upcoming Lan Ha Bay kayaking and trekking adventures.

Summary:
Activities: Transfer and Trek
Accommodations: Viethai Bungalow
Meals:B/L/D
Trekking distance: 12 Km

Day 14: Lan Ha Bay – Kayaking and Island Exploration

On Day 14, embark on an unforgettable Lan Ha Bay kayaking adventure. Paddle through calm, crystal-clear waters, surrounded by lush islands and towering limestone cliffs. You’ll also have the chance to explore caves and lagoons while soaking in the stunning views of the bay. This day provides a relaxing and exhilarating end to your Vietnam multi-adventure tour.

Summary:
Activities: Trekking and kayaking
Accommodations: Onnight Cruise
Meals:B/L/D
Trekking and kayaking 5 km

Day 15: Cat Ba to Hanoi – Farewell Vietnam

On Day 15, return to Hanoi after a thrilling adventure in Northern Vietnam. Reflect on the memories of your Vietnam hiking, trekking, and kayaking experiences as you depart. This 14-day multi-adventure tour will leave you with lasting memories of Vietnam's stunning natural beauty and vibrant culture.

This 15-Day North Vietnam Adventure Tour offers the perfect blend of cycling, trekking, and cultural exploration, immersing you in the stunning landscapes and rich heritage of Northern Vietnam. Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime experience filled with amazing sceneries, ethnic diversity, and unforgettable memories!

Summary:
Activities: Transfer only
Accommodations: By yourself
Meals: B/L

Transferring distance: 150 Km

Note: Hotels  are subject to change due to availability. In that case we will choose equivalent  accommodation
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 adventure hiking guide ( other languages upon requests)
Accommodations are based on double/ twin occupancy. 
Including western breakfast.
Meals details in itineraries ( 14 breakfast, 14 lunches, 14 dinners)
A/C transfer/ and transportation
Sightseeing excursions as outlined itineraries
First aid kit
Cold water box, small fresh towel.
Mineral water for drinking
Motorcycle support on hiking road when our supported vehicle will no able to reach.
Local trekking guide in each trekking place
Cruise on Lan Ha 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 in Vietnam and Combodia
Departure  tax
Tip for team and guide