GRAND NORTHERN LOOP OF VIETNAM BY MOTORBIKE

16 Days / 15 Nights – Grand Northern Vietnam Loop. Detailed information about the destinations included in this itinerary can be found at the end of this page.

Booking code of Grand North loop of Vietnam: OV43

If you have two weeks to 16 days available, Offroad Vietnam invites you to experience the ultimate Northern Vietnam motorbike adventure. This epic journey takes you on a grand loop through some of the country’s most spectacular landscapes, following remote mountain roads near the borders with Laos and China.

Starting from the fertile plains of the Red River Delta, you will gradually ascend into the northern highlands, spending many days riding through breathtaking mountain scenery before returning to Hanoi.

The route passes through a remarkable variety of destinations, including Mai Chau, Phu Yen, Moc Chau, Son La, Tuan Giao, Muong Lay, Sin Ho, Dien Bien Phu, Sapa, Bac Ha, Luc Yen, Xin Man, Ha Giang, Dong Van, Meo Vac, Bao Lac, Ba Be, Cao Bang, Quang Uyen, Lang Son, and Mau Son.

Accommodation throughout the trip is diverse and authentic, with a combination of local homestays and comfortable hotels, allowing you to experience both the culture and hospitality of Northern Vietnam.

This is truly one of the most comprehensive and rewarding ways to discover the beauty, diversity, and adventure of Northern Vietnam on two wheels.

To start planning your journey, simply send us your request, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

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GRAND NORTH LOOP OF VIETNAM – DETAILED ITINERARY

Day 1: Hanoi – Mai Chau. ~160 km, ~5 hours. (L, D)

Today marks the beginning of your 16-day Grand Northern Vietnam Motorbike Loop adventure.

Before leaving Hanoi, we will hold a short briefing to familiarize you with local traffic regulations, riding conditions, and essential safety guidelines. Your guide will also explain the hand signals and body language used throughout the tour to ensure smooth communication on the road. We typically depart at around 9:30 AM, after the morning rush hour has subsided.

To avoid the city’s heavy traffic, we leave Hanoi via scenic dyke roads, gradually escaping the Red River Delta and its bustling surroundings. The ride takes us through the picturesque countryside of the Perfume Pagoda region, passing vast agricultural landscapes where endless rice paddies stretch to the horizon, separated by tree-lined country roads.

Continuing northwest, we cross two mountain passes before descending into the beautiful valley of Mai Chau, surrounded by lush green mountains and traditional villages.

Tonight, we stay with our friends from the White Thai ethnic minority in a traditional stilt house. After a hearty local dinner, there is an opportunity to enjoy a cultural performance featuring traditional Thai dances, along with a selection of local rice wines and regional specialties.

Overnight in Mai Chau.

Day 2: Mai Chau – Phu Yen. ~140 km, ~5 h. (B, L, D)

We continue our journey toward Moc Chau before turning onto the less-travelled Road 43, which leads toward the Da River. After crossing the Da River reservoir by ferry at Van Yen, we follow a scenic winding secondary road through peaceful countryside landscapes.

The ride continues to Phu Yen, where we arrive in the late afternoon and settle into a local guesthouse for the night.

Day 3: Phu Yen – Son La. ~160 km, ~6 hours. (B, L, D)

We continue along the quiet and scenic Road 37, entering a mountainous region inhabited largely by the Black Thai ethnic group, known for their traditional way of life and extensive terraced rice fields.

The winding road leads us through numerous Thai villages and cultivated landscapes, offering an excellent opportunity to observe authentic rural life in Northern Vietnam.

As we ride further, the terrain gradually transforms into rolling hills before ascending to the cooler Son La plateau, an area well known for its sugar cane plantations.

Overnight in Son La.

Day 4: Son La – Tuan Giao. ~140 km, ~5 hours. (B, L, D)

Departing Son La to the northwest, we travel through a series of mountain passes and vibrant Black Thai communities, where daily rural life unfolds along the roadside. Children walk to school, young herders guide buffaloes through the fields, women plant rice seedlings, and men work the land with buffalo-drawn ploughs.

The journey then brings us to the base of the impressive Pha Din Pass, one of the longest and most challenging passes in Northern Vietnam. We ascend its steep, winding road to the summit, where we are rewarded with sweeping panoramic views over the surrounding mountain ranges. From there, we descend the equally dramatic southern side on a steep, fully sealed road.

Overnight in Tuan Giao.

Day 5: Tuan Giao – Than Uyen. ~160 km, ~6 h. (B, L, D)

The road becomes increasingly wild and bumpy as we travel through remote mountainous terrain. Between Sapa and Hanoi, we enter the impressive Mu Cang Chai massif, a dramatic highland region rising close in elevation to Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina.

From the top, we are rewarded with one of the most breathtaking panoramic views in Northern Vietnam, with endless layers of terraced mountains stretching into the distance.

Today is widely considered one of the highlights of the journey, combining spectacular mountain scenery with authentic encounters with local hill-tribe communities along the way.

Day 6: Than Uyen – Sapa. ~120 km, ~5 h. (B, L, D)

Enjoy a relaxed morning walk in the Than Uyen area, home mainly to the Flower H’mong and Dzao ethnic communities, offering a chance to observe local daily life in a peaceful setting.

We then continue our journey toward Sapa. The ride begins on an easy track for approximately 100 km, followed by a fully asphalted mountain road for the final 40 km as we approach the highlands.

Today offers a particularly beautiful riding experience on the Grand Northern Vietnam Loop, combining scenic landscapes, cultural encounters, and enjoyable road conditions.

Day 7: Sapa, trek or relax. (B, L, D)

Depending on the group’s mood, today can be taken at a relaxed pace in Sapa town, or you may choose to explore further afield with excursions to the highest mountain pass in Vietnam or down into the spectacular Sapa valleys.

All options are framed by the majestic Fansipan mountain range, which rises dramatically over 2,000 metres above the town and dominates the entire landscape.

This region is home to a rich diversity of ethnic communities, including the H’mong, Giay, Tay, and Dao people, whose presence adds depth and cultural richness to the area.

Overnight in Sapa.

Day 8: Sapa – Bac Ha. ~90 km, ~4 h. (B, L, D)

The ride from Sapa to Bac Ha takes approximately 3 hours. We descend from Sapa to Lao Cai (34 km), then continue ascending toward Bac Ha (70 km), passing through stunning mountainous landscapes along the way.

Upon arrival, we check into a local hotel and enjoy lunch.

In the afternoon, we take a trek to Lung Phinh village, offering an opportunity to explore the surrounding countryside and experience local life.

Overnight in Bac Ha.

Day 9: Bac Ha – Xin Man. ~50 km, ~3 h. (B, L, D)

We ride along minor roads and mountain tracks that wind through remote and unspoiled landscapes. The Flower H’Mong communities add vibrant splashes of colour to the rugged scenery, creating a striking contrast against the wild surroundings.

This route allows ample time to stop and take in the views, with narrow footpaths weaving through dense vegetation and untouched countryside.

We then continue to the Can Cau market, set in a dramatic mountainous valley close to the Chinese border. Here, ethnic communities from both sides of the border gather every Saturday morning, creating a lively and colorful meeting point for trade and cultural exchange.

Day 10: Xin Man – Ha Giang. ~140 km, ~6 h. (B, L, D)

We follow a quiet road along the picturesque Lô River, enjoying a truly scenic ride through peaceful landscapes. This section of the journey offers a superb and relaxing riding experience.

As this route enters sensitive border regions, permits from the Ha Giang authorities are normally required to continue.

The following stages take us deeper into the mountainous areas inhabited by various frontier ethnic communities.

Overnight in Ha Giang, either in a comfortable hotel or, if preferred, a local homestay can be arranged.

Day 11: Ha Giang – Dong Van. ~180 km, ~6h. (B, L, D)

Today is widely considered one of the most spectacular days of the 16-day Grand Northern Vietnam Motorbike Loop.

After obtaining the necessary permits from the Ha Giang Immigration Police to enter the border areas, we set off on small, challenging mountain roads that are both demanding and incredibly scenic, crossing the lands of vibrant ethnic minority communities.

We then ascend the legendary Ma Pi Leng Pass, one of the most breathtaking mountain roads in Vietnam. From here, we are treated to sweeping views of cloud-covered peaks and the dramatic Nho Que River winding far below through the canyon.

The ride continues along a zig-zag mountain track toward Dong Van, a remote highland town where life continues in harmony with the rocky landscape. It is inspiring to witness how local communities adapt and thrive in such rugged conditions.

Upon arrival, there is time to explore the ancient streets of Dong Van, where traditional H’Mong houses made of clay bricks with tiled roofs have stood for centuries.

This is often regarded as one of the absolute highlights of the entire journey.

Day 12: Dong Van – Bao Lac. ~80 km, ~4 h. (B, L, D)

The road is generally in good condition, although during the summer months landslides and rough patches can make this relatively short distance take longer than expected. However, the spectacular scenery more than compensates for the slower pace, allowing you to fully appreciate one of the most beautiful regions in Vietnam.

As we ride through the wild and remote landscapes of the legendary Ha Giang, the journey offers continuous views of dramatic mountains and untouched nature.

We end the day in Bao Lac, an important ethnic crossroads in Northeast Vietnam. This lively town is known for its Sunday market, where many ethnic groups from both sides of the border gather to trade, meet, and socialize.

Overnight in Bao Lac.

Day 13: Bao Lac – Cao Bang. ~150 km, ~5 h. (B, L, D)

This is a beautiful ride as we descend into Cao Bang Province. Along the way, we cross a few mountain passes offering sweeping views over the surrounding landscapes.

The road is generally easy to ride, although it features numerous blind curves that require careful attention. There are plenty of opportunities to stop for photos and enjoy the scenery at a relaxed pace.

Including breaks for drinks and lunch, the journey takes approximately eight hours.

Overnight in Cao Bang, in a hotel.

Day 14: Cao Bang – Quang Uyen. ~140 km, ~5 h. (B, L, D)

We enjoy a short ride of approximately 1.5 hours to reach the beautiful village of Quang Uyen, nestled within a dramatic mountain cirque. This is the homeland of the Nung An ethnic group.

We stay in a welcoming homestay with a local family, where the hostess is known for her excellent home-cooked meals.

From here, we continue through spectacular scenery toward Ban Gioc Waterfall, one of Vietnam’s most impressive natural landmarks, located around 50 km from Quang Uyen. Weather permitting, there is also an opportunity to swim close to the base of the 50-metre-high falls as they thunder into the river below.

Day 15: Quang Uyen – Lang Son. ~180 km, ~6 h. (B, L, D)

We ride from Quang Uyen to Lang Son along the historic Highway 4, a route rich in history and scenic landscapes. Along the way, we pass through peaceful countryside and enjoy the final stretch of mountainous terrain on this journey.

Upon arrival in Lang Son, there is time to explore the city, which has developed into an important trading hub between Vietnam and China. You may also visit the Dong Kinh Market, well known for its wide range of goods and lively atmosphere.

Overnight in Lang Son, in a hotel.

Day 16: Lang Son – Hanoi. ~150 km, ~3 h. (B, L). End of Grand North Loop Of Vietnam.

An easy riding day brings us back to Hanoi via the Highway 1B. After many days on the road, you can enjoy a relaxed morning and a late departure, as we expect some well-earned rest after the journey.

We arrive in Hanoi around 3:00 PM, before the evening rush hour.

This marks the end of your 16-day Grand Northern Vietnam Motorbike Loop adventure.

B: Breakfast.
L: Lunch.
D: Dinner.

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DESTINATION DETAILS

Mai Chau

We arrive in a Thai village in Mai Chau District, Hoa Binh Province, located approximately 160 km from Hanoi. However, using quieter and more scenic routes, the actual riding distance is closer to 200 km.

In the early 1990s, Lac Village became the first in the area to introduce homestay accommodation, pioneering local community-based tourism. Its success quickly inspired surrounding villages to join in, transforming Mai Chau into one of the largest homestay networks in Northern Vietnam.

The warmth of the local people, combined with delicious traditional cuisine, makes for a truly enjoyable and memorable evening.

Accommodation is in a traditional Thai stilt house, or “pile dwelling,” built from bamboo and timber. These houses are typically elevated 10-12 feet above the ground to protect against flooding and to shelter livestock underneath.

This is the first homestay experience of the 16-day Grand Northern Vietnam Motorbike Loop, and in reality, it is often considered one of the most unforgettable highlights of the journey.

Phu Yen

A small town on the northern bank of the Đà (Black) River, approximately 170 km northwest of Hanoi, Phu Yen lies in the heart of the third-largest rice-growing region in Northern Vietnam.

The road from Phu Yen to Son La is scenic, peaceful, and lightly trafficked, offering a relaxed and enjoyable riding experience through rural landscapes.

As one of the less-visited destinations in Northern Vietnam, accommodation in Phu Yen is simple and basic, reflecting the town’s remote character.

Son La

Son La is located approximately 320 km from Hanoi and is a region of great historical significance. During the French colonial period, it was known for the Son La Prison, where many Viet Minh prisoners were held under harsh conditions, making it an important site in Vietnam’s struggle for independence.

During the First Indochina War, Highway 6 was expanded to support military logistics for the Dien Bien Phu campaign.

Today, riders traveling through this area are rewarded with stunning natural landscapes, including the Moc Chau Plateau and the dramatic Pha Din Pass.

In spring (January and February), the region comes alive with blooming plum and peach blossoms across the mountains. This is also the festive Tet season, when children and young H’mong women dress in their most beautiful traditional clothing, creating excellent opportunities for photography and cultural encounters.

Tuan Giao

Muong Lay is located approximately 450 km from Hanoi, in a remote area of Dien Bien Province. This small town lies along the Da (Black) River and is currently undergoing changes due to the construction of a new hydroelectric plant, which has reshaped parts of the surrounding landscape.

From here, we prefer to continue our journey along Road 279 toward Than Uyen, offering a quieter and more scenic alternative route.

Accommodation in Muong Lay is basic, reflecting the town’s remote location and ongoing development.

Than Uyen

Than Uyen is a small town located approximately 400 km north of Hanoi and around 120 km south of Sapa, in Than Uyen District, Lai Chau Province. It lies within the high mountain massif of the Hoang Lien range, home to Fansipan (3,143 m), the highest peak in Indochina.

The area is surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery and serves as a quiet stopover point within this remote highland region.

Accommodation in Than Uyen is basic, reflecting its rural and mountainous setting.

Sapa

Sapa is a former French hill station established in the early 20th century, located approximately 400 km north of Hanoi in Sapa District, Lao Cai Province. Situated at around 1,600 metres above sea level, it is one of the few places in Vietnam where snowfall can occasionally occur during winter.

Today, Sapa offers a wide range of comfortable accommodation and has become a major tourist destination. With its rapid development, the town often sees more international visitors than local residents.

After several days in remote mountain regions, Sapa provides a welcome return to lively evening activities, restaurants, and a more vibrant atmosphere within the Grand Northern Vietnam Motorbike Loop.

Bac Ha

A “new Sapa,” located approximately 400 km from Hanoi and around 120 km from Sapa, is a small highland town known for its distinctive local culture and agricultural products.

The area is particularly famous for its Tam Hoa plum variety, which is said to bloom three times before reaching full ripeness.

Another local specialty is traditional Vietnamese whiskey distilled in Bac Ha, which is widely enjoyed in the region.

Ha Giang

Ha Giang is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful provinces in Northern Vietnam, and arguably in the entire country. Located approximately 320 km north of Hanoi, it is renowned for its dramatic mountain landscapes and authentic cultural experiences.

Travelers are treated to breathtaking scenery throughout the region, along with warm and welcoming encounters with local ethnic communities. The vibrant Sunday markets add a rich splash of color and life to the area.

Ha Giang is undoubtedly one of the standout highlights of the Grand Northern Vietnam Motorbike Loop.

Dong Van

Located approximately 200 km from Ha Giang city and around 500 km from Hanoi, the Dong Van Karst Plateau Global Geopark is widely considered one of the most spectacular landscapes in Northern Vietnam.

Recognized by UNESCO as the first Global Geopark in Vietnam and the second in Southeast Asia, this extraordinary region was formed roughly 550 million years ago. Today, it is home to 17 ethnic minority groups, creating a uniquely rich cultural and historical tapestry.

The vibrant Sunday market is one of the most colorful in Northern Vietnam, offering a vivid display of local life, traditions, and trade.

Without a doubt, this is often regarded as the most memorable day of the 16-day Grand Northern Vietnam Motorbike Loop, experienced best on two wheels.

Bao Lac

Located approximately 400 km from Hanoi, this remote northern area of Vietnam lies in a mountainous region along the border with China. The landscape is rugged and sparsely populated, with local communities living in small, isolated villages where basic infrastructure such as water supply systems remains limited.

This region is among the less economically developed areas in Vietnam, with livelihoods primarily based on subsistence agriculture and traditional practices.

The nearby town is small and modest, serving mainly as a convenient stopover point with basic accommodation before continuing deeper into the mountains.

Cao Bang

Cao Bang is a major town in Northeast Vietnam and the capital of the province of the same name. It is located approximately 180 km from Lang Son and around 400 km from Hanoi.

The city is historically significant, particularly in connection with the Battle of Cao Bang, one of the early decisive victories of the Viet Minh against the French forces along Highway 4.

Today, Cao Bang serves as an important base for exploring the surrounding region, as it offers the best available accommodation in an otherwise remote and sparsely developed area.

Quang Hoa

This commune in Quang Uyen District, Cao Bang Province is mainly inhabited by the Nùng people. It lies approximately 400 km north of Hanoi via Lang Son, or around 500 km via Cao Bang city.

The village is among the early pioneers in offering homestay experiences to international travelers exploring the region on two wheels. Accommodation is simple but warm and welcoming, providing an authentic glimpse into local life.

Nearby, Ban Gioc Waterfall stands out as one of the most scenic natural highlights in the area. However, due to increasing trade activity at the Po Peo border gate, the access road can be challenging, often alternating between dusty and muddy conditions depending on the season.

Lang Son

Lang Son is a major trading hub in Northeast Vietnam and one of the most important border gateways between Vietnam and China, located approximately 150 km from Hanoi.

The city and its ancient citadel have long held strategic significance, having been at the crossroads of multiple historical conflicts. During the colonial period, the area witnessed several French defeats, and it later became a focal point of intense fighting during the Sino-Vietnamese War of 1979, which caused extensive damage to the city.

Despite this turbulent history, Lang Son has recovered rapidly and today shows little visible trace of past conflicts. It has developed into a busy and prosperous border trading town.

Visitors can explore bustling local markets, including opportunities to purchase a wide range of goods imported from China, from electronics to inexpensive consumer items.

For more information, details, or customized options for the 16-day Grand Northern Vietnam Motorbike Loop, please feel free to contact us at [email protected].

We are happy to assist you with any questions and help you plan your journey.