5-Day Vietnam Cycling Tour: Hanoi to Mai Chau via Pu Luong

Embark on an unforgettable 5-day Vietnam cycling tour that takes you deep into the heart of Northern Vietnam’s stunning landscapes and cultural heritage. This expertly crafted Hanoi to Mai Chau bike tour begins with a scenic Hanoi to Luong Son cycling route through the rolling hills of Hoa Binh province, offering travelers a truly off the beaten path Vietnam bike tour experience. Pedal through the lush terrain of the Ngoc Son Ngo Luong Nature Reserve on an exhilarating Ngoc Son Ngo Luong cycling tour, then continue your Pu Luong cycling adventure as you traverse dense tropical forests, explore hidden trails, and reach the tranquil Hieu Village on a memorable Hieu Village Pu Luong bike tour.

This eco cycling tour Vietnam immerses you in the beauty of nature and the warmth of local communities, combining the thrill of Vietnam mountain biking experience with the richness of a Vietnam cycling and homestay experience.  As part of this immersive Vietnam countryside cycling tour, riders will explore traditional villages cycling routes, enjoy the serenity of Pu Luong Nature Reserve cycling, and follow the most remote cycling routes in Vietnam, where every turn reveals another hidden gem. The journey continues with Mai Chau valley cycling, featuring authentic encounters and scenic beauty on one of the best cycling routes from Hanoi to Mai Chau. On the final leg, cycle the iconic Thung Khe Pass, experience a vibrant Lo market Hoa Binh tour, and soak in the charm of local market cycling tours. 

This Northern Vietnam bike tour is perfect for those seeking rural Vietnam bikepacking adventures, authentic cultural cycling tours, and Vietnam eco tours with cycling. Discover what to expect on a 5-day Vietnam bike tour as you uncover the most scenic cycling Vietnam has to offer, exploring Pu Luong on a bicycle and revealing the hidden gems in Northern Vietnam by bike through a thoughtfully curated Mai Chau cycling itinerary.

Day 1: Hanoi – Transfer to Luong Son, Cycle to Ngoc Son Ngo Luong

Your 5-day Vietnam cycling tour begins with a morning transfer from Hanoi to Luong Son in Hoa Binh province, where the adventure truly begins. Upon arrival, you’ll embark on your bike and start pedaling through the peaceful countryside, immersing yourself in the scenic cycling Vietnam is known for. This Hanoi to Luong Son cycling route offers a perfect introduction to the region’s charm, with panoramic views of limestone mountains, rice paddies, and stilt-house villages nestled among the hills.

As you ride deeper into rural Vietnam, the landscape transitions into lush forest paths and quiet backroads, offering a taste of the Vietnam countryside cycling tour experience. The route is ideal for those seeking an authentic cultural cycling tour, with chances to interact with friendly locals along the way. Your destination today is the Ngoc Son Ngo Luong Nature Reserve, a hidden gem in Northern Vietnam renowned for its biodiversity, remote trails, and untouched beauty. This Ngoc Son Ngo Luong cycling tour promises a refreshing escape from the bustle of the city and sets the tone for the off the beaten path Vietnam bike tour that lies ahead.

Summary:
Activities:Transferring and warming Cycling
Accommodation: Ecohomestay. Bungalow.
Meals:L/D
Cycling distance:40 – 76 Km

Day 2: Ngoc Son Ngo Luong – Cycle Through Muong Villages & Forest Trails to Hieu Waterfall, Pu Luong

After a restful night in the tranquil Ngoc Son Ngo Luong Nature Reserve, Day 2 of your 5-day Vietnam cycling tour begins with an exhilarating ride through the heart of rural Northern Vietnam. Set off on a scenic route that winds through charming Muong ethnic villages, where traditional stilt houses and warm hospitality offer a glimpse into local life. This segment of your Ngoc Son Ngo Luong cycling tour is rich in cultural encounters and visual beauty, with rice paddy fields stretching across the valley floor and farmers tending to their fields in the early light. As the journey continues, the terrain becomes more adventurous. You'll cycle beneath a lush canopy of trees, navigating cycling through dense forest in Vietnam, where the trail winds gently upward toward Cao Cao Pass. This off-road stretch is perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a remote cycling route in Vietnam, combining natural serenity with the thrill of backcountry riding. After reaching the pass, enjoy a rewarding descent into Hieu Waterfall, nestled deep within Pu Luong Nature Reserve—a true highlight of your Pu Luong cycling adventure. Today’s ride blends breathtaking scenery, cultural immersion, and invigorating physical activity, making it a standout day on this Northern Vietnam bike tour. It’s a perfect mix of eco cycling tour Vietnam experiences and authentic cultural cycling tour moments, ideal for adventurous travelers looking to explore hidden gems in Northern Vietnam by bike.

Summary:
Activities:Cycling from Village - Village
Accommodation :Ecohome/ Retreat 
Meals:B/L/D
Cycling distance: 45 – 80 Km

Day 3: Explore the Hidden Charm of Pu Luong – Hieu Village to Sam Khoe via Don Village & Co Luong

Today’s journey delves deep into the hidden charm of Pu Luong Nature Reserve, one of Northern Vietnam’s best-kept secrets. Begin your ride from the serene Hieu Village, where the sound of waterfalls and morning mist over terraced fields set the tone for a truly immersive experience. This stretch of your Pu Luong cycling adventure offers a harmonious blend of rugged terrain, lush landscapes, and authentic cultural encounters. Pedal along quiet village paths and ascend a few steep passes that challenge your legs but reward your spirit with panoramic views over limestone mountains and emerald-green valleys. You’ll pass through Don Village, a traditional Thai community that reflects the peaceful rhythm of rural life. From here, enjoy a thrilling descent into the Co Luong section, where you’ll pause for a well-deserved lunch stop surrounded by nature.

In the afternoon, continue along a scenic cycling route that is truly off the beaten path in Vietnam. This trail meanders along a tranquil river, past golden rice fields, bamboo groves, and through Thai ethnic minority villages where local culture remains beautifully preserved. The peaceful roads and untouched environment make this one of the most memorable sections of your Vietnam countryside cycling tour. Arrive in the quiet hamlet of Sam Khoe, where our specially selected onsen retreat awaits. After checking in, unwind and soothe your muscles with a rejuvenating hot spring bath, a perfect way to conclude an incredible day of cycling, nature, and cultural discovery on your eco cycling tour Vietnam.

Summary:
Activities: Cycling from Hotel - Hotel
Accommodation: Ecohomestsy  or Ecolodge
Meals:B/L/D
Cycling distance: 30 – 65 km

Day 4: Mai Chau Loop – Single-Track Cycling Through Thai Villages, Bamboo Forests & Bao La Market

Day 4 of your Northern Vietnam bike tour features a captivating Mai Chau loop cycling tour, starting directly from our tranquil onsen retreat in Sam Khoe. Today’s ride is a scenic and cultural delight, showcasing the beauty of Vietnam’s countryside cycling routes and the timeless rhythm of life in the valleys. Kick off the day with a thrilling ride along a single-track trail, winding through quaint Thai ethnic minority villages where stilt houses, rice barns, and friendly smiles await. The undulating route offers a refreshing mix of terrain, taking you through golden rice terraces, whispering bamboo forests, and towering palm trees, creating a visual tapestry unique to scenic cycling in Vietnam. Your first major stop is the vibrant Bao La Market, a colorful rural marketplace bustling with local activity. Here, you’ll have time to explore, engage with villagers, and experience the authentic charm of a local market cycling tour, a highlight for those seeking authentic cultural cycling tour experiences. Refreshed and recharged, mount your bike once more to tackle a moderate climb, winding through mountain trails and down into peaceful valleys. This portion of the route provides a gentle challenge and ample reward, as the path leads you through remote areas such as Ban Xo Village and Na Meo, where life remains deeply connected to tradition.

Finally, descend into the breathtaking Mai Chau Valley, where you’ll be surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs, rice paddies, and welcoming villages. This day is a perfect blend of remote cycling routes in Vietnam, natural beauty, and cultural discovery—ideal for travelers searching for an off the beaten path Vietnam bike tour with immersive local charm.

Summary:
Activities:Cycling Back Road
Accommodation: Ecohomestay
Meals:B/L/D
Cycling distance: 25 – 45 Km

Day 5: Thung Khe Pass to Muong Khen – Final Ride Through Scenic Villages & Return to Hanoi

Your final day on this unforgettable 5-day Vietnam cycling tour begins with a hearty breakfast and a scenic transfer to the iconic Thung Khe Pass, known for its panoramic mountain views and dramatic limestone cliffs. From this high vantage point, you'll embark on your final cycling trip, a rewarding descent into some of the most peaceful and untouched countryside in Hoa Binh province. The ride begins on a quiet single-track trail, weaving through a patchwork of limestone karsts, forested hillsides, and rustic villages that capture the essence of rural Vietnam bikepacking adventure. As you descend, you'll pass through traditional Muong communities, where timeless customs and stilt houses reflect the region’s rich heritage. This section is ideal for those seeking remote cycling routes in Vietnam and an authentic cultural cycling tour experience away from the tourist trail.

Your journey ends in the charming town of Muong Khen, where you’ll reunite with your support vehicle and transfer back to Hanoi. As you reflect on your days spent cycling through Ngoc Son Ngo Luong, Pu Luong Nature Reserve, and the Mai Chau valley, you’ll carry with you memories of vibrant markets, forested paths, ethnic village encounters, and the scenic beauty that makes this route one of the best cycling tours in Northern Vietnam. Whether you came for the challenge, the culture, or the landscapes, this Vietnam eco tour with cycling has delivered a truly immersive and enriching adventure—one that showcases the very best of off the beaten path Vietnam bike tours.

Summary:
Activities:Cycling and Transferring to Hanoi
Accommodation: The light Hotel****
Meals:B/L/
Cycling distance: 45 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 cycling guide ( other languages upon requests)
Accommodations are based on double/ twin occupancy
Meals details in itineraries ( 4 breakfast, 5 lunches, 4 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
Sightseeing  excursions as outlined itineraries
Bike tour pump, bike tools, spares tubes, spare bikes
First aid kit
Cold water box, small fresh towel.
Fruit and snack for cycling days
Mineral water for drinking

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