MOTORBIKE TOUR 15 DAYS FROM HOI AN TO HA NOI VIA HO CHI MINH TRAIL

The countryside road in Hue

Leaving the old Hue capital for Khe Sanh, we will take a most beautiful coastline along the Tam Giang lagoon - it stands as a well-known network of lagoons, notably claiming the title of Southeast Asia's largest brackish water lagoon, covering about 52 square kilometers. Positioned approximately 30 kilometers away from Hue's city center, this charming Vietnamese lagoon is increasingly favored by visitors for its pristine, peaceful, and romantic ambiance. Keep going on the beautiful way we will ride to the Hien Luong Bridge- a 17th parallel, it was bisected by the border between South Vietnam and North Vietnam during the Vietnam War from 1954 to 1975, It is not just history only but also it is a nice scenery area which you can take photos while walking on the bridge with our guide and we will tell you more about the history of this area.

The day with a beautiful coastline, mountain road, and full of historical places that we hope you will enjoy your time with us. After the Hien Luong bridge, we will ride a bit more on the coast and visit the Vinh Moc Tunnel a historically significant site located near the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) in Quang Tri Province. This tunnel was built by the North Vietnamese to shelter villagers from intense bombing by American forces during the Vietnam War. The complex system of tunnels, dug by hand, served as an underground village with living quarters, a clinic, kitchens, and even a school, allowing people to survive underground for years. We will have an hour to visit the tunnel and back to the motorbike again for the mountain way. Finish the cost line from the Vinh Moc tunnel, we will turn to the west of the Truong Son range where you will feel more nature windy from the green jungle. We stop for lunch in the small village, take a rest, and continue our journey to the Truong Son Martyrs' Cemetery which is the largest war cemetery in Vietnam, located in Quang Tri Province. It serves as a resting place and memorial for the thousands of North Vietnamese soldiers who died along the Truong Son Road (also known as the Ho Chi Minh Trail) during the Vietnam War. This cemetery is a significant site for both historical and emotional reflection, commemorating the sacrifices made during the war.

Before coming to our hotel for a long day ride, we will visit the last historical area which is called the Rock Pile Hill which was critical during the Vietnam War as a strategic observation post. It was inaccessible by foot, so the U.S. military relied on helicopters to deliver troops, supplies, and equipment to the top. From here, U.S. Marines and Army personnel used radio and artillery to monitor and attack NVA supply lines and troop movements along the Ho Chi Minh Trail. Going to our hotel in Khe Sanh around 5 pm.

Accommodation: Hotel

The trail in Khe Sanh - Ho Chi Minh road

Start the trip at 8: 30 am, we will pack our luggage and roll on the Ho Chi Minh Road again, the first stop for today, we will visit the Khe Sanh combat base, this former U.S. Marine base is an essential historical sites, where one of the largest battles of the Vietnam War took place. You’ll find an on-site museum with aircraft, tanks, and photos from the era.

The ride will take us through an old-growth jungle, with stunning waterfalls and beautiful landscapes. We will visit Van Kieu’s ethnic village to observe how these people survive in one of the most remote places in Vietnam.

We will have lunch at another village and continue to ride through the jungle and take a stop at the top of mountain ranges to see marvelous valleys.

The journey will take us along the banks of the Son River, through rice paddies, farmland, and past local farmers. Along the way, you will learn about the background of the Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park and the West Ho Chi Minh trail, a remote and less-traveled area.

We will arrive at a lovely Phong Nha town at 5 pm.

Accommodation: Hotel

The stalactite in Phong Nha cave

Today we will have a whole day to explore the caves, enjoy nature, and see the beautiful sunset at the rice field in Phong Nha National Park without riding a lot of kilometers.

With a day free to explore Phong Nha National Park, we will have a few hours in the dark cave for some activities. Dark Cave is a branch of the Phong Nha cave system with 5,558m long and 80m high, the entry of the cave is 30m high and 10m wide with heavy forest around the cave mouth. Dark Cave was discovered in the years of anti-America resistance war by local people and used as a bomb shelter, it is a must-visit place when we come to Phong Nha. Unlike other caves that are artificially lit, this cave is mostly dark, the Dark Cave entrance is hidden beneath lush foliage. Thus, it is only accessible via a steep, rocky path that meanders through the forest.

To see the way, we need to use headlamps or torches while exploring Dark Cave. You can see the vast chambers and tunnels illuminated only by the faint glow of their headlamps. The cave is also located on the site of the river called Chay River, which originates from deep inside the mountains. The area is surrounded by spectacular limestone mountains and verdant forests, providing a refreshing and tranquil ambiance. Most activities that you are going to do today are kayaking going through the caves then immersing yourself in the mud bath and taking a walk to explore the cave. Zipline is also on our part our a trip which you can join a bit adventurous and take time to swim at the beautiful river.

After all these morning activities we will take lunch on the way to another caves. In the afternoon we will take another trip to the magnificent Paradise limestone cave, the second-longest wet limestone cave in the world, and then trek through this amazing old-growth rainforest, you can choose to take an electric car or walk around 3 km to the cave and explore it.

After finishing our cave trips, we will ride a few kilometers through the Phong Nha National Park and enjoy the green nature in this marvelous park. On the way back our guide will stop at the time of sunset to relax and take some pictures here then we will ride back to our hotel. 

Accommodation: Hotel

The marvelous of Truong Son range

Today is the longest day of our journey, it takes a 280 km long distance to Tan Ky but the route offers a peaceful journey through the scenic Vietnamese countryside, with chances to connect with local culture and history along the way.

Depart in the early morning to enjoy our cool climate on the motorbike through the jungle, we will pass some villages of the hill tribe groups and stop at the Thai Village to explore the culture and walk around the village. Enjoy the ride on the smooth road, stop to relax for a cup of coffee, and continue the beautiful long mountain road to our hotel.

Accommodation: Tan Ky

Breathtaking view on the way to Mai Chau

Another day long with 260 km to Mai Chau, this route offers a beautiful landscape, a cultural experience, and a taste of rural Vietnam.

By the following day, we will leave Tan Ky early in the morning and head to Mai Chau. We will ride through the bamboo groves along the Ma River, it is a breathtaking road for us to enjoy nature.

We will have lunch at Cam Thuy town and continue our ride to Mai Chau, where the renowned Ho Chi Minh Trail's KM 0 began, during the war, Milestone 0 km was the beginning of the legendary Ho Chi Minh trail, this was a meeting place for food supplies and weaponry for the Vietnam War soldiers fighting in the South. We will ride again on the smooth road to Mai Chau and spend the night here.

Accommodation: Hotel

The dinosaur trail in Ta Xua

When the sunrise goes over Mai Chau, we’ll set off on our motorbike, and head towards Ta Xua, a destination known for its dramatic landscapes and cloud formations. The ride today is one of contrasts, as you leave the peaceful valley of Mai Chau and climb into the rugged mountains.

The road to Ta Xua winds through remote villages and terraced fields, with each turn offering new views of the majestic landscape. Along the way, you’ll pass through Moc Chau, a region famous for its tea plantations and dairy farms in the north of Vietnam. This area is often shrouded in mist, adding an ethereal quality to the ride.

When reaching Ta Xua, we’ll be greeted by a small, quiet town perched on the edge of the mountains. Ta Xua is less known than other destinations, which means you’ll likely have stunning views all to yourself. Check in our hotel and if we have time we will take a trek to the Dinosaur Spine, a narrow ridge that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. This is one of the best spots to witness the “ocean of clouds” phenomenon, where a sea of clouds stretches out below you, creating a dreamlike landscape. Afterward, returning to our hotel to rest and ready for the dinner.

Accommodation: Homestay/ Local guest house

Rice terrace in Mu Cang Chai

Leaving Ta Xua in the morning after breakfast, we’ll continue our journey through the northern highlands of Vietnam. The ride today is one of the highlights of our trip, taking you through some of the most spectacular scenery the region has to offer. The road winds its way through the mountains, passing through the town of Tu Le, known for its terraced rice fields that cascade down the hillsides.

While riding through Tu Le, take your time to stop and admire the view, especially if you visit here during the harvest season when the fields turn golden. Continue riding to Mu Cang Chai, another famous area for its terraced fields. These terraces are a UNESCO-recognized cultural heritage site. The fields stretch as far as the eye can see, creating a mesmerizing pattern of green and gold across the landscape.

After exploring Mu Cang Chai, continuing our journey to Ngoc Chien, a small village nestled in a remote valley. Ngoc Chien is known for its natural hot springs, which are the perfect way to relax after a long day of riding. The village is also home to the Thai and H’Mong ethnic groups, and you’ll have the opportunity to learn about their traditional way of life. Arrive at our homestay around 4 pm.

Accommodation: Local homestay/ Hotel

The peace of  Sapa

The road from Mu Cang Chai to Sapa takes us deeper into the northern mountain ranges, where the air is cooler and the scenery even more dramatic. The road today is a mix of paved highways and rugged mountain tracks, making for an exhilarating ride. We’ll pass through several small villages, where we can stop to interact with the local people and learn about their daily lives.

When we reach Sapa, the landscape becomes even more stunning, with towering peaks and deep valleys. Sapa itself is a bustling town that sits high in the mountains, offering spectacular views of the surrounding region. The town is a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists, drawn by its cool climate and the chance to explore the nearby ethnic minority villages.

We will take a stunning mountain road passing the villages of the Black H’Mong and Dao people. These villages are famous for their traditional handicrafts, especially their intricate embroidery and textiles. Walking around and exploring the villages, we will return to Sapa and check in at our homestay. Sapa offers a range of dining options, from traditional Vietnamese food to international cuisine, making it the perfect place to relax after a day on the road.

Accommodation: Local homestay/ Hotel

The village of Tay ethnic people

After breakfast, we will ride to the beautiful mountain loops and take a short break visit to the China and Vietnam border. After a short break in Lao Cai to see the China border, we will have a very beautiful motorbike ride to Ha Giang. This motorbike rides the mountain from 1,500 meters above sea level to Ha Giang around 800 meters to 1,200 meters, the road offers a great view of mountains with terrace fields and it must be one of the best motorbike rides in North Vietnam.

We will have a smooth motorbike ride along the smooth road about 40 kilometers, and then we will take a turn to a small road to Pho Rang - the road is small and somewhere bumpy but the scenery is completely different from what you saw in days before. The scenery is a wonderful mixture of green mountains, rice fields, and graceful villages of the ethnic people. You will have lunch in Pho Rang and after that, you will have a smooth motorbike road to Ha Giang on the winding road with a different view from what you’ve seen.

Accommodation: Hotel.

The way up to Dong Van mountain town

Riding on the most beautiful breathtaking mountain pass to Bac Sum pass. Check in the Heaven’s Gate Pass then we’ll arrive in Tam Sơn - Quan Ba, a town surrounded by jutting, forested hills. It is a great experience to discover the diversity of ethnic culture by visiting the H’Mong village which will be told by our experienced tour guide. Having lunch in the middle of the beautiful Yen Minh village.

Continuous along the mountain road and stop at Twin Mountain and Can Ty Mountain for great scenery. Visit Tham Ma Hill and Vuong’s family house in Sa Phin

The motorbike rides in the afternoon winds along the Rock Plateau and some beautiful mountain passes to Ha Giang. We will arrive at Ha Giang Town at 5:00 pm.

Accommodation: Hotel.

Taking a boat trip in the Nho Que River

After breakfast, we leave Dong Van town to Explore the Ma Pi Leng pass, one of the 4 biggest passes on Truong Son rage, and it is well known for its abrupt cliffs and breathtaking views. On the top peak, we will stop for you to take some pictures of the whole panorama of Ma Pi Leng, where you might feel overwhelmed by the majestic mountains and rivers. Then continue our journey through thousands of conical limestone peaks as well as deep and meandering valleys. Take a boat trip in Nho Que River to enjoy the beauty of nature here and come to  Meo Vac for lunch. Continue our riding in Ha Giang loops and ride slowly along the Gam River to enjoy the green mountains to Bao Lac. Stay overnight will be in Bao Lac town.

Accommodation:  Hotel

Ban Gioc Waterfall in Cao Bang

Enjoy more riding through the mountains and stop to rest at some of the breathtaking mountains and visit the Black Lo Lo ethnic group, women here still wear their traditional black dresses put over their heads, with large sleeves made of bands of cloth in different colors, and a long, full black skirt, tight at the waist and the knee.

Keep going on the road lined with beautiful trees and scenic mountain views to join the small heading up down to Cao Bang town a little town in the mountainous region of northeastern Vietnam.

We arrive at our homestay in Tay’s village, check in a homestay, and back on the bike for a short ride to visit Nguom Ngao Cave, a must-visit attraction when in the Ban Gioc area. The astonishing cave with stalactites of various shapes is the most famous limestone grotto in the northern mountains. You will be amazed by its beauty. Returning to our homestay to relax and ready for dinner at our homestay.

Accommodation: Homestay/Hotel.

The stunning  mountain road

Leaving early for a long nice day ride, we will visit Ban Gioc waterfall - One of Vietnam's natural wonders. This enchanting fall unveils a breathtaking spectacle as pristine waters cascade from tier to tier, harmonizing with the lush landscapes. Take a hike to Truc Lam Phat Tich pagoda, this pagoda was the first to be constructed at the Northern border position in Dam Thuy, Trung Khanh, Cao Bang. You can enjoy great views of the Ban Gioc Waterfall and the entire karst valley from this hillside pagoda and temple.

Continue our motorbike journey, we will stop at the stunning mountain views and rice paddy fields and visit the Phuc Sen village where local people make their traditional knives or some tools for working on the farm. Take a long nice ride with a few stops on the way to Ba Be village, a village of the Tay ethnic group. Check-in at our homestay Tay’s Village. If we are on time, we will take an hour boat ride on Ba Be Lak, if it is too late we will keep it for the next morning.

Ba Be Lake is known as one of the largest natural lakes in Vietnam. Ba Be Lake known as Hồ Ba Bể in Vietnamese, Ba means “three”, Bể means Pé in Tay's language which means “lake” is the largest natural lake in Vietnam. Having been formed approximately 200 million years ago, the lake is surrounded by limestone cliffs which in turn are covered by primary forests. The three rivers - Nang, Ta Han, and Nam Cung are the main inflows of the lake. Ba Be Lake is a featured geographical science and is a biodiversity reservoir. It is a part of the Ba Be National Park.

Accommodation: Homestay/Hotel.