Embark on the 7 Day Ultimate Sapa - Y Ty Mountain Bike Challenge!

Get ready for an unforgettable mountain biking adventure through the breathtaking landscapes of Northern Vietnam! This 7-day Sapa - Y Ty cycling challenge takes you on an exhilarating journey from Lao Cai to Sapa, pedaling through stunning backroads and off-road cycling trails in Bat Xat, Trinh Tuong, Lung Pho, A Mu Sung, A Lu, Ngai Thau, Y Ty, Muong Hum, Ban Xeo, and Lao Chai. From there, the ride continues through Ta Van, Seo My Ty, Thanh Phu, Sin Chai, and back to Pho Lu, offering spectacular views of the Annamite Range—a truly perfect backdrop for any Vietnam mountain biking adventure!

Sapa – A Mountain Biker’s Paradise

Sitting at 1,500 meters above sea level, Sapa is one of Vietnam’s most iconic cycling destinations, known for its breathtaking natural beauty, rugged mountain trails, and rich cultural heritage. Nestled in the Hoang Lien Son mountain range, near the Chinese border, Sapa is often called the "Tonkinese Alps" due to its dramatic landscapes and high-altitude terrain. Cyclists will traverse rice terraces, remote hill tribe villages, and lush valleys, all set against the backdrop of Fansipan—the highest peak in Vietnam!

Y Ty – A Hidden Gem for Off-Road Cycling

Perched at over 2,000 meters, Y Ty is a hidden paradise for mountain biking. Known for its cloud-covered peaks and dramatic landscapes, Y Ty’s highest point reaches 2,660 meters, making it an otherworldly experience for adventure seekers. Cyclists will explore winding dirt trails, lush tropical forests, and ethnic minority villages of the Hmong, Dao, Day, and Tay people, each offering unique cultural experiences. The thrilling descent through steep mountain passes and misty valleys is perfect for riders looking to challenge themselves on Vietnam’s best off-road cycling routes.

An Unforgettable Cycling Experience

This multi-day mountain bike tour will have you navigating dirt roads, narrow single tracks, and small winding concrete paths through stunning terraced fields. Ride along peaceful streams, cycle through misty ravines, and conquer steep climbs that test your endurance. As you reach the highest peaks, you'll be rewarded with unparalleled panoramic views, making every challenging ascent worth the effort.

For adventure cyclists looking to experience Vietnam’s most breathtaking mountain bike trails, the Sapa - Y Ty cycling route is the ultimate journey. Whether you're an experienced rider or an enthusiast looking for a challenge, this cycling adventure in Northern Vietnam promises an unforgettable experience through some of the country's most remote and spectacular landscapes.

Day 01: Hanoi Arrival & Scenic Transfer to Sapa

Welcome to Hanoi, the gateway to your ultimate Sapa mountain biking adventure! Upon arrival, our team will greet you at your hotel or meet you at Noi Bai International Airport for an early morning departure. We’ll embark on a scenic drive along the Hanoi to Lao Cai Expressway, offering breathtaking views of Northern Vietnam’s landscapes.

En route to Lao Cai, a vibrant border city near China, we’ll stop for a delicious Vietnamese lunch, allowing you to savor authentic local flavors. After a short break to explore Lao Cai’s border gate, we’ll continue our journey to Sapa Hilltop Town, renowned for its cool mountain climate, misty valleys, and terraced rice fields. Upon arrival, check in at your Sapa hotel, relax, and soak in the fresh mountain air before enjoying a traditional Vietnamese dinner at a local restaurant. Your 7-day Sapa - Y Ty mountain bike challenge begins tomorrow—get ready for an unforgettable cycling adventure in Vietnam’s stunning highlands!

Summary:
Activity: Picking up andTransferring 
Accommodation: Bamboo hotel
Meals:L/D
Transferring distance: 380 Km

Day 02: Sapa – Sau Chua – Ta Phin – Tram Ton – Sin Chai – Cat Cat – Sapa

After a refreshing night in Sapa Hilltop Town, get ready for an exhilarating day of mountain biking in Northern Vietnam! Today’s ride takes you through some of the most scenic cycling routes in Sapa, offering a mix of off-road trails, single tracks, and mountain passes.

We begin with a thrilling descent into the Muong Hoa Valley, where you’ll veer onto a winding single-track trail leading to Sau Chua Village, a hidden gem in northeast Sapa. As you cycle through lush bamboo forests and misty valleys, you’ll soak in the unspoiled beauty of Vietnam’s highlands. The route then takes you past a traditional Hmong village, before continuing along a secondary road that winds through breathtaking rice terraces, botanical gardens, and the ruins of an ancient Catholic church.

A true cycling challenge awaits as we ascend to the historic ruin church before taking an exciting downhill trail to Ta Phin Village, home to the Red Dao ethnic minority. Here, you’ll have the unique opportunity to learn about their rich cultural heritage, traditional customs, and herbal medicine practices.

Back on our bikes, we’ll navigate rolling hills and lush forests, making our way toward O Quy Ho Pass, the highest mountain pass in Vietnam. From the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views over the Muong Hoa Valley, a sight that will take your breath away! Then, it’s time for an adrenaline-pumping descent into the Sapa Valley, offering stunning views of towering mountains, rice paddies, and remote hill tribe villages.

Our final stretch takes us through Sin Chai and Cat Cat Village, two of Sapa’s most iconic cultural destinations. A short but challenging uphill climb will bring us back to Sapa Town, where you can choose to either ride back to your hotel or take advantage of our support vehicle transfer for a well-earned rest.

This leg of the 7-day Sapa - Y Ty mountain bike challenge is a perfect blend of thrilling trails, cultural immersion, and breathtaking landscapes, making it an unforgettable day of cycling in Northern Vietnam!

Summary:
Activity: Picking up and Transferring 
Accommodation: Bamboo Hotel
Meals:L/D
Transferring distance: 45 Km
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/43697573

Day 03: Sapa – Muong Hoa Valley – Su Pan – Thanh Phu – Nam Cang

After a hearty breakfast, gear up for another thrilling day of mountain biking through Northern Vietnam! Today’s ride takes you deep into Muong Hoa Valley, home to some of the most spectacular rice terraces, vibrant hill tribe villages, and breathtaking landscapes in Sapa.

Leaving the bustling Sapa tourist area behind, we begin with a scenic downhill ride into the valley, passing stunning mountain views and vast rice paddies. The journey continues along a dirt road leading to Y Linh Ho Village, a traditional Black Hmong settlement. From here, we switch to a winding concrete road, cycling through lush bamboo forests, terraced fields, and remote ethnic minority villages before arriving in Lao Chai Village. Take a well-deserved coffee and tea break, explore the village, and interact with the Hmong people to learn about their rich cultural heritage.

Back on our bikes, we tackle a variety of terrains, from paved roads and single tracks to off-the-beaten-path dirt trails, making our way toward Lao Chai – Ta Van Village. Along the route, you’ll cross a suspension bridge, meet friendly hill tribe locals, and even have the chance to visit their homes for an authentic cultural experience. After crossing back over the bridge, the ride continues toward Su Pan, Den Thang, Thanh Kim, and Thanh Phu, where we’ll stop for a traditional Vietnamese lunch with a local family.

In the afternoon, we resume our cycling adventure on scenic single tracks and dirt roads, passing through charming villages, serene streams, and picturesque landscapes. Our final destination is Nam Cang Riverside Lodge, where we’ll be welcomed by the warm-hearted Dao family. Enjoy a delicious homemade dinner and experience an authentic homestay in Sapa, surrounded by the peaceful beauty of Northern Vietnam’s highlands.This leg of the 7-day Sapa - Y Ty mountain bike challenge is packed with stunning landscapes, cultural immersion, and diverse cycling terrains, making it one of the most unforgettable days of your journey!

Summary:
Activity: Cycling from Village - Village
Accommodation: Nam Cang Riverside Lodge
Meals:B/L/D
Cycling distance: 45 Km
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/43697600

Day 04: Nam Cang – Sin Chai – Ban Ho – Sapa

Rise early to embrace the tranquility of Northern Vietnam’s highlands! Start your morning with authentic local activities, a peaceful stroll around Nam Cang Village, or simply soak in the breathtaking natural beauty of the surrounding rice terraces and misty valleys. Enjoy a traditional breakfast featuring Vietnamese pancakes and banana cake, complemented by a refreshing herbal tea prepared by your host.

With energy recharged, it’s time to set off on another thrilling leg of the Sapa - Y Ty mountain bike challenge! Departing from our Dao homestay, we cycle through remote ethnic minority villages, terraced rice fields, and winding dirt roads. The route leads us along a scenic buffalo trail, connecting us to the culturally rich villages of Sin Chai A, Thanh Phu, and Suoi Thau. Along the way, you’ll witness stunning mountain landscapes, gushing streams, and peaceful rural life.

After a well-earned lunch in Ban Ho Village, we continue our cycling adventure, tackling rolling hills and a challenging mountain pass on the final stretch toward Sapa Hilltop Town. This exhilarating ride rewards you with majestic limestone mountains, breathtaking valley views, and encounters with local hill tribes. Upon arrival in Sapa, check in at your hotel and relax after an action-packed day. In the evening, enjoy a hearty Vietnamese dinner, reflecting on another unforgettable day of mountain biking in Sapa’s rugged highlands. This leg of the 7-day Sapa - Y Ty cycling adventure offers an exciting mix of cultural immersion, stunning scenery, and challenging trails, making it a must-experience for adventure cyclists!

Summary:
Activity: Cycling from Village - Village
Accommodation: Sapa Bamboo Hotel
Meals:B/L/D
Cycling distance: 45 Km
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/43697600

Day 05: Sapa – Muong Hum – Y Ty

Get ready for one of the most spectacular cycling experiences in Northern Vietnam as we journey from Sapa to Y Ty, a breathtaking mountain paradise hidden in the clouds!

Perched at over 2,000 meters above sea level, Y Ty is a mystical destination where towering peaks, mist-covered valleys, and cascading rice terraces create a surreal landscape. Rising to 2,660 meters, this remote region is often wrapped in clouds, earning it the name “the land above the clouds.” Cycling through Y Ty’s winding trails and dense forests, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into another world, far removed from the bustle of everyday life.

Cycling Route: Sapa to Y Ty via Muong Hum

After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, we set off on an exhilarating ride through Sapa’s scenic highlands. We start by pedaling past Sapa’s iconic Catholic Church, then take a picturesque village road lined with vibrant flower and vegetable farms. The towering Fansipan Mountain Range, Vietnam’s highest peak, dominates the skyline to the left, making for an awe-inspiring backdrop.

Reaching the O Quy Ho Pass, we regroup before tackling a challenging ascent to Ban Khoang, where we cycle through a lush, moss-covered forest, dappled with golden sunlight filtering through the thick canopy. This area is home to ethnic hill tribes living in rustic villages nestled in the hills, offering a glimpse into their unique way of life.

A highlight of today’s journey is a stop at the Muong Hum Sunday Market, a vibrant cultural hub where Hmong, Dao, and Ha Nhi ethnic minorities gather to trade local goods, textiles, and fresh produce. After soaking in the colorful market atmosphere, we hop back on our bikes to tackle another breathtaking mountain pass, pedaling through the untouched landscapes of Den Sang, Nhieu Co San, and Ngai Tro.

As we approach Y Ty, the scenery transforms into a dramatic display of floating clouds, golden rice terraces, and remote hill tribe villages. The crisp mountain air and unspoiled natural beauty make this stretch of the ride truly unforgettable. Upon arrival in Y Ty Township, enjoy a warm cup of honey tea while admiring the mesmerizing cloud formations drifting over the mountains.End the day with a delicious local dinner and a relaxing stay at a cozy guesthouse or traditional homestay, recharging for another day of adventure in the Sapa - Y Ty mountain bike challenge.

Summary: 
Activity: Cycling
Accommodation: A Ho Ecolodge/ Homestay
Meals: B/ L/D
Cycling distance: 66 Km
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/43697409

Day 06: Y Ty Back Road

Rise early to witness the magical transformation of the Y Ty mountains, where clouds and mist dance across the valleys, offering breathtaking panoramic views of this remote region. As the sun rises, the mist begins to lift, revealing a stunning landscape that feels like a dream come to life.

Start the day with a delicious traditional Vietnamese breakfast before embarking on your next adventure. Today’s cycling route takes us through untouched natural beauty, starting with a challenging ascent to Ngai Thau Peak. From here, you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular view of the rolling mountains and valleys, shrouded in clouds, offering a surreal, otherworldly atmosphere.

After soaking in the beauty, we begin our descent through vibrant rice terraces, navigating winding paths that lead us to the tranquil Choen Thien Villages. The scenery here is truly magical, with lush green landscapes, peaceful streams, and the harmonious sounds of nature all around.

We continue our journey along a scenic single-track trail, cycling through dense forests, rolling hillsides, and alongside crystal-clear streams, making our way toward Sin Chai Village and Sang. Next, we visit Ma Sao Village, where the Hmong people have lived for centuries, preserving their unique traditions and culture. Here, we’ll enjoy a picnic lunch with a local family, giving us the perfect opportunity to rest, recharge, and learn more about the lives of these incredible communities.

After lunch, we set off once more, navigating rough and challenging roads that wind through dense forest and terraced rice fields as we make our way to Y Ty Town. This leg of the journey offers a mix of rugged terrain and natural beauty, making it a thrilling challenge for cycling enthusiasts.Upon reaching Y Ty, we’ll enjoy a hearty dinner and relax after a day of adventure. Spend the night in Y Ty, where the peaceful surroundings and clear night skies offer the perfect conclusion to another unforgettable day on the 7-day Sapa - Y Ty mountain bike challenge.

Summary: 
Activity: Cycling 
Accommodation: A Ho Ecolodge
Meals: B/ L/D
Cycling distance: 45 km
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/43697549

Day 07: Y Ty – U Mu Sung – Lung Po – Bat Xat – Lao Cai - Hanoi

Start your final day of the 7-day Sapa - Y Ty mountain bike challenge with a traditional Vietnamese breakfast at a local family’s home. After fueling up, it’s time to saddle up and cycle through the picturesque landscapes surrounding Y Ty.

We begin the day with a thrilling ride, descending from Y Ty Town through scenic routes, including Ngai Thau, A Lu Ngai Tro, and A Mu Sung, all the way to Lung Po, a significant landmark where the Red River meets Vietnam’s border with China. This section of the ride offers breathtaking views of lush green rice terraces and rugged mountain landscapes, showcasing the natural beauty of northern Vietnam’s frontier.

As we continue our cycling adventure, we’ll navigate undulating roads along the Red River, taking in stunning scenery as we approach Trinh Tuong Commune. Here, we’ll have the opportunity to admire the traditional Ha Nhi hill tribe architecture, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of this remote region.

We’ll then stop for a well-earned lunch in Bat Xat, recharging before the final stretch of our ride. After lunch, we’ll transfer our bikes to a supported vehicle and begin the journey back to Hanoi. The scenic drive back will take around four hours, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the lush, rugged beauty of northern Vietnam.We’ll arrive in Hanoi in the late afternoon, with memories of a spectacular cycling adventure in the Sapa highlands, filled with vibrant hill tribe cultures, stunning mountain views, and unforgettable landscapes.

Summary: 
Activity: Cycling 
Accommodation: Lao Cai Red Riverside****
Meals: B/ L/D
Cycling distance:70 km
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/43697513

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 ( 6 breakfast, 07lunches, 06 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.
Mineral water for drinking
Fruit and snack for cycling days
Single Train Ticket Hanoi – Lao cai 

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.

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