10-Day Cycling Tour in Far North Vietnam: Explore Bac Son, Cao Bang, Ba Be, and More

Embark on a 10-day cycling adventure through the far north of Vietnam, an incredible way to experience the most breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural treasures of the hill tribe communities. Starting from Hanoi, this tour takes you to some of the most untouched regions in North East Vietnam, including Bac Son, Cao Bang, Ba Be National Park, Na Hang Nature Reserve, and Thac Ba Water Reservoir. Along the way, you will cycle through scenic roads, explore picturesque villages, and meet the hospitable ethnic tribes that call these areas home.

Highlights of the 10-Day Cycling Tour:

Cycling through Bac Son and Cao Bang: Pedal through stunning mountain roads, surrounded by picturesque landscapes and vibrant hill tribe villages.

Admire Three Amazing National Parks: Explore Ba Be National Park, Na Hang Nature Reserve, and Thac Ba Water Reservoir, each offering spectacular natural beauty and diverse wildlife.

Cycling and Kayaking in Ba Be Lake: Experience the charm of Vietnam’s largest natural lake, Ba Be Lake, set within a tropical forest and surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. Paddle through serene waters and cycle along scenic routes, discovering the untouched beauty of the area.

Na Hang to Thac Ba: Cycle on tarmac roads through Na Hang to Thac Ba and Vu Linh Eco-villages, where you will be captivated by the stunning limestone mountain vistas, pristine nature, and traditional local life.

This cycling tour in North Vietnam is a great opportunity to connect with nature, explore hidden villages, and enjoy eco-friendly activities like kayaking and cycling. You’ll cycle along remote roads, through dense forests, and past limestone cliffs, capturing the essence of Vietnam’s northern beauty.

Day 1: Hanoi Arrival - Welcome to Vietnam

Arrive in Hanoi, Vietnam – Your adventure begins! Upon your arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, our Snail Adventure Tour guide and driver will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in the heart of Hanoi, the vibrant capital of Vietnam. Known for its unique old-world charm and colonial architecture, Hanoi offers a fascinating blend of historic landmarks and modern attractions.

After checking in, take some time to relax before meeting with your guide for a detailed itinerary briefing about the exciting days ahead. To immerse yourself in the local culture, enjoy a cyclo ride through the bustling streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, where you’ll witness the dynamic mix of ancient traditions and modern life. As you pedal through narrow alleyways and vibrant marketplaces, get ready to be captivated by the charm of Hanoi’s historic architecture and local culture.In the evening, you’ll be treated to a special welcome dinner at a traditional Vietnamese restaurant, where you’ll taste authentic local dishes. Overnight in Hanoi, ready for the adventures ahead!

Summary: 
Activities: Transferring and briefing itinerary
Accommodation: The Light hotel****
Meals: L/D
Cycling distance: Transfer only

Day 2: Thai Nguyen – Bac Son Cycling Adventure

Start your cycling journey in Northern Vietnam with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before checking out and gearing up for the day’s adventure. After clearing the bill, our driver will transport you out of the bustling streets of Hanoi to Thai Nguyen Province, an area renowned for its rich culture and stunning landscapes.

Upon arrival in Thai Nguyen, you'll visit the Hill Tribal Minority Museum, where you’ll gain insight into Vietnam’s 54 diverse ethnic groups. This educational stop will help you recognize the various hill tribes you’ll encounter along your cycling route in the coming days. The museum offers a unique opportunity to learn about the traditions, customs, and history of Vietnam’s ethnic minorities before hitting the road.

Your first cycling day begins as you pedal from Thai Nguyen to Bac Son Town. Located in the northern mountainous region of Lang Son, Bac Son is nestled in a picturesque valley, surrounded by towering mountains that create a stunning backdrop of poetic scenery. The route offers a scenic challenge as you cycle through lush valleys and traditional villages, providing a real taste of northern Vietnam’s natural beauty and cultural richness.Overnight in Bac Son at a cozy hotel or homestay, immersing yourself in the local environment and preparing for another exciting day of cycling.

Summary: 
Activities: Transferring and  warming up cycling
Accommodation: Binh Huong Hotel**
Meals: B/L/D
Cycling distance: 85 Km

Day 3: Bac Son – Quang Uyen Cycling Adventure

Wake up early to immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere of Bac Son’s villages. Start your day by exploring the daily life of local people and tasting a traditional local pancake for breakfast. This morning promises an authentic experience, where you can witness the rural charm of northern Vietnam.

Your cycling adventure begins with a ride through the incredible Bac Son valley, a stunning landscape surrounded by towering mountains and lush greenery. Along the way, you’ll visit the Bac Son Museum, an important historical site that showcases documents, photos, and artifacts related to the Viet Minh Revolution against French colonial rule, particularly the events of September 27, 1940.

Next, prepare for a long climb to That Khe Junction, where you’ll enjoy a well-deserved picnic lunch amidst the breathtaking natural surroundings. After lunch, continue cycling along Route 3, heading towards Cao Bang. This route offers spectacular views and an opportunity to explore even more scenic landscapes as you make your way toward your destination. Upon reaching Dong Khe, you will be transferred by shuttle bus to your hotel in Quang Uyen, where you can unwind after the day’s ride. Enjoy a delicious dinner and rest for the night at the Hung Dzung Hotel.

Summary: 
Activities: Cycling from hotel – That khe . Transferring to Dong Khe cycle to Hotel
Accommodation: Hung Dzung Hotel***
Meals: B/L/D
Cycling distance: 85 Km

Day 4: Quang Uyen – Ban Gioc Cycling Adventure

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before heading out to explore the local market, where you can learn about the traditional local production methods and take photographs with the friendly locals. This is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and capture the essence of rural northern Vietnam.

Afterward, hop on your bike for an exhilarating cycling adventure. You'll start on a mix of tarmac roads and gravel paths, cycling through 17 km of undulating terrain. This scenic route takes you past thatched roof stilt houses of local hill tribe villages nestled in peaceful valleys, surrounded by soaring limestone mountains. Along the way, you’ll experience the beauty of northern Vietnam’s rural landscapes.

The first challenge of the day comes with a 7 km steep climb with sharp bends. While this may be demanding, you will be rewarded with spectacular views and panoramic vistas of the towering mountain ranges. After reaching the summit, take a well-deserved break and enjoy refreshments before descending through a scenic valley.

Next, conquer a second pass, 5 km in length, as you make your way through Ha Lang Township. Turn onto the border belt road between Vietnam and China, where you will cycle along a long, steep pass that tests your cycling skills and endurance.

After overcoming these challenging passes, you will be treated to a well-earned picnic lunch at the summit, where you can rest and admire the beautiful landscapes of both Vietnam and China. Post-lunch, continue your ride along the Quay Son River, soaking in the stunning natural beauty that stretches across both countries.

Finally, you will make your way to the Ban Gioc Waterfall, one of Vietnam's most iconic natural landmarks. After a day of adventure, enjoy a relaxing dinner and stay overnight at the Sai Gon Ban Gioc Resort, where you can unwind and take in the tranquil surroundings.

Summary: 
Activities: Cycling from hotel –hotel
Accommodation: Sai Gon Ban Gioc Resort***
Meals: B/L/D
Cycling distance: 75 Km

Day 5: Ban Gioc – Trung Khanh – Tra Linh Cycling Journey

Start your day early to witness the breathtaking nature around Ban Gioc, taking a leisurely walk to explore the stunning Ban Gioc Waterfall, one of the most remarkable natural wonders in Vietnam. After breakfast at the hotel, we set off on our cycling adventure from the hotel, heading towards the border belt road. As we cycle, you’ll be mesmerized by the striking karst formations of Non Nuoc Cao Bang, a UNESCO Global Geopark, offering panoramic views of limestone peaks that rise dramatically from the landscape.

Enjoy the tranquil beauty of the lush rice paddies and charming quaint villages as you ride along the border belt, crossing picturesque bamboo bridges and cycling through peaceful rural areas. The route takes us through single track trails and dirt roads, offering an authentic cycling experience as we pass from village to village. The scenery is nothing short of spectacular as you ride through this UNESCO-listed Global Geopark, surrounded by impressive natural landscapes. Upon arriving in Trung Khanh, take a break to regroup and enjoy a refreshing stop before continuing on your cycling journey. From Trung Khanh, we switch to backroads and beaten tracks, pedaling towards Tra Linh Town. Along the way, you’ll encounter more scenic dirt roads, passing peaceful villages and lush rice fields that stretch as far as the eye can see.

Stop for a well-deserved lunch en route, and after the meal, continue cycling through the tranquil Vietnamese countryside, with incredible views of rice terraces and rural life. As you approach Tra Linh Town, the atmosphere becomes more vibrant, and upon arrival, you’ll check into your accommodation and relax after the day’s cycling journey.In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner and unwind, reflecting on the scenic beauty you’ve experienced. Stay overnight in Tra Linh Town, where you’ll rest for the night, ready for more adventures ahead.

Summary:
Activities: Cycling and Visiting
Accommodations: Ngoc Long Hotel*
Meals:B/L/D
Cycling distances: 72 Km

Day 6: Tra Linh – Cao Bang Cycling Adventure

Rise early to immerse yourself in the mesmerizing natural surroundings of Tra Linh, and take a moment to explore the majestic beauty of the Ban Gioc Waterfall once again. After this refreshing experience, return to your hotel for a hearty breakfast. Then, we begin our cycling journey from the hotel, following the scenic frontier road towards Pac Po, an area of profound historical significance.

Cycling through the peaceful countryside, you’ll head towards Pac Po, where President Ho Chi Minh spent three critical years between 1940-1943, after returning to Vietnam from his 30 years abroad. This part of the journey provides a chance to learn about Vietnam’s rich history and its struggle for independence.

Explore the Ho Chi Minh historical relics, including the Coc Po Cave, Lenin Spring, and Carcmark Mountain, all of which played a crucial role during Ho Chi Minh's revolutionary years. After visiting these historical landmarks, we continue cycling on the Ho Chi Minh Route, making our way back to Cao Bang.Enjoy a delicious lunch en route as we pass through rural landscapes and quaint villages. Upon reaching Cao Bang, you will have some free time to explore the vibrant city and nearby villages, experiencing the local culture and natural beauty up close.

Summary:
Activities: Cycling from Hotel and Hotel ( Transfering the remain distance to hotel)
Accommodations: Sunny Hotel***
Meals:B/L/D
Cycling Distance: 118 km

Day 7: Cao Bang – Ba Be Cycling Adventure

After enjoying a hearty breakfast at the hotel, we begin our exciting cycling tour from Cao Bang towards Ba Be National Park. Pedaling along a paved country road, we cross bridges and turn onto quiet village paths, offering the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture. Continue cycling on National Road 209, heading towards Bac Can, as you enjoy the stunning scenic landscapes along the way.

The route is a visual feast, with breathtaking views of towering limestone mountains, lush rice terraces, and the tranquil countryside. You will experience the beauty of Vietnam’s northern landscapes, rich in natural splendor and vibrant local life. Stop for a delightful lunch en route to refuel and recharge.

After lunch, we continue cycling on undulating roads as we make our way to Ba Be Lake, the centerpiece of Ba Be National Park. This stunning area is one of the oldest national parks in Vietnam and boasts an exceptional landscape of semi-tropical monsoon rainforest and majestic mountain scenery. As you cycle around the lake, you'll discover the natural beauty of Ba Be, which is also home to a diverse array of ethnic minority groups such as the Tay, Red Dao, Coin Dao, and White H’mong.Ba Be National Park is famous for being the largest natural freshwater lake in Vietnam, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.

Summary: 
Activities: Cycling hotel to Hotel ( transferring the remain distance)
Accommodation: Sai Gon Ba be Hotel/ Ecohomestay
Meals: B/L/D
Cycling distance: 100 Km/ 140 km

Day 8: Ba Be to Na Hang Nature Reserve and Vinh Loc Cycling Adventure

Wake up early to immerse yourself in the pristine nature of Ba Be National Park, where the sounds of birds and monkeys fill the air, setting the tone for a remarkable day. After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, we start our cycling journey from the hotel, heading through the park and making our way to the Boat Wharf. Here, we embark on a scenic boat trip to explore the breathtaking beauty of Ba Be Lake, surrounded by lush jungles and stunning limestone landscapes.

After the boat ride, we continue cycling on a single dirt track towards Dau Dang Waterfall, where you'll be treated to more of Vietnam's spectacular natural beauty. Another boat trip takes us to Da Vi and the Na Hang Water Reservoir, known for its tranquil waters and dramatic scenery. We then hop back onto our bikes and ride on tarmac roads that include some moderate hills and passes, adding a bit of a challenge to our day. The cycling experience will be unforgettable as you pass through the scenic countryside on your way to Vinh Loc. Upon arrival in Vinh Loc, we check in to a local hotel, followed by a delicious dinner to recharge after a fulfilling day of cycling and exploration.

Summary: 
Activities: Boat Trip and Cycling to Hotel
Accommodation: Minh Nguyet Hotel**
Meals: B/L/D
Cycling distance: 85 Km

Day 9: Vinh Loc to Tuyen Quang and Vu Linh Cycling Adventure

After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, we begin our cycling journey from Vinh Loc, riding on tarmac roads towards Tuyen Quang and the stunning Thac Ba Water Reservoir. Along the way, you’ll be captivated by the lush landscapes, traditional hill tribe villages, and the vibrant local life. As you cycle through the villages, you’ll likely meet friendly schoolchildren, offering a warm “hello” as they head to or from school.

Our route takes us from one ethnic minority village to another, giving you a unique insight into the daily life and culture of these communities. The scenic beauty along the way is complemented by verdant green farms and the welcoming spirit of the locals. We arrive at the breathtaking Thac Ba Reservoir Lake by late afternoon, where we take a moment to appreciate the tranquil surroundings. Afterward, we continue cycling on village roads surrounded by spectacular scenery and lush green fields.The final stop for the day is the My Lam Hot Spring Water, where you can unwind and relax in the natural hot springs, a perfect way to rejuvenate after a day of exploration and cycling. Upon arrival at My Lam, check in to your accommodation, enjoy a well-deserved dinner, and take time to soak in the relaxing hot spring waters to end your adventure on a soothing note.

Summary: 
Activities: Cycling from hotel - hotel
Accommodation: A Chau Hotel Hotel
Meals: B/L/D
Cycling distance: 85 Km

Day 10: Vu Linh to Son Duong and Return to Hanoi

On the final day of your 10-day cycling adventure in northern Vietnam, we start by cycling around the charming village of Vu Linh. As we pedal through the peaceful landscape, we turn onto tarmac roads leading to the town. Along the way, we stop to visit a traditional early morning local market, where you can interact with locals and get a glimpse into their daily life.

We continue our journey, crossing a picturesque bridge and cycling along the river on well-maintained paved roads to reach Son Duong. Once we arrive in this quaint town, enjoy a delicious lunch before taking a comfortable transfer back to Hanoi.This marks the end of our cycling tour in the far north of Vietnam, filled with scenic beauty, vibrant hill tribe cultures, and unforgettable experiences. We hope you’ve enjoyed the serene landscapes, diverse ethnic communities, and stunning nature of northern Vietnam.

Summary: 
Activities: Cycling and transferring to Hanoi city
Accommodation: The Light Hotel****
Meals: B/L/D
Cycling distance: 77 Km

Note: Hotels  are subject to change due to availability. In that case we will choose equivalent  rooms
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 ( 9 breakfast, 10lunches, 10 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
Boat Trip in Ba Be – Na hang
Cold water box, small fresh towel.
Mineral water for drinking
Fruit and snack for cycling days
Permission Paper in Cao Bang

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