HA GIANG MOTORBIKE TOURS IN 11 DAYS

Find the destination details for this 11-Day Ha Giang Motorbike Tour at the bottom of this page

Ha Giang Motorbike Tours In 11 Days Booking Code: OV49

Offroad Vietnam invites riders from around the world to explore one of Vietnam’s wildest and most remote regions. Ride a mix of smooth roads, gravel tracks, dirt trails, and jungle paths, where rain can quickly turn any route into an off-road adventure. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking views of misty mountains and remote borderlands.

Starting from Hanoi, this Ha Giang motorcycle tour travels through Nghia Lo, Than Uyen, and Sapa before reaching the stunning landscapes of Ha Giang, Dong Van, and Bao Lac. The journey then follows historic Highway 4 through Cao Bang, Quang Uyen, and Lang Son.

Returning via Ba Be shortens the trip by one day and offers more off-road riding, but you will miss the legendary Highway 4.

This is our most popular motorcycle tour in North Vietnam. Simply tell us how much time you have, and we’ll put together a proposal that fits your schedule and adventure plans.

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Videos

To get a feel for our 11-Day Ha Giang Motorbike Tour, watch the video below and see what awaits on this unforgettable adventure.

 

If you’d like to see more adventures from the road, check out our YouTube channel for additional videos.

Tour Routes

1^st day: Hanoi – Nghia Lo.
2^nd day: Nghia Lo – Than Uyen.
3^rd day: Than Uyen – Sapa.
4^th day: Sapa – Bac Ha.
5^th day: Bac Ha – Ha Giang.
6^th day: Ha Giang – Dong Van.
7^th day: Dong Van – Bao Lac.
8^th day: Bao Lac – Cao Bang.
9^th day: Cao Bang or Cao Bang – Quang Uyen.
10^th day: Cao Bang – Ba Be or Quang Uyen – Lang Son.
11^th day: Ba Be – Hanoi or Lang Son – Hanoi.

• This adventure can also be completed in 10 days by returning via Ba Be Lake, instead of continuing along historic Highway 4 to Lang Son.

If you have less time, click here to explore our detailed 8-Day Ha Giang Motorbike Tour itinerary.

1^st day: Hanoi – Vu Linh.
2^nd day: Vu Linh – Ha Giang.
3^rd day: Ha Giang – Dong Van.
4^th day: Dong Van – Bao Lac.
5^th day: Bao Lac – Cao Bang.
6^th day: Cao Bang or Cao Bang – Quang Uyen.
7^th day: Cao Bang – Ba Be or Quang Uyen – Lang Son.
8^th day: Ba Be – Hanoi or Lang Son – Hanoi.

Important!

• A Ha Giang travel permit is required for each rider. Fortunately, we can arrange it at the hotel where we stay. Simply provide your original passport, and we will take care of the process.
• Traffic police in Ha Giang often operate checkpoints to inspect riding documents. Please make sure you carry both your home country motorcycle licence and an International Driving Permit issued under the 1968 Convention (not the 1949 Convention), with motorcycle endorsement. If you do not have the required licences, we can discuss the available options via email or WhatsApp.

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11-Day Ha Giang Motorbike Tour Itinerary

This itinerary is flexible and serves as a sample route. We will tailor the journey to match your riding experience, interests, and adventure expectations.

Day 1: Hanoi – Nghia Lo (~250 km, ~7 h). L, D

This is the first day of our 11-Day Ha Giang Motorbike Tour. Before setting off, we spend about 30 minutes checking the bikes and making sure all tools and equipment are ready for the adventure ahead.

Leaving Hanoi, we follow the Red River toward Son Tay before heading into the mountains of Nghia Lo. The ride is easy and mostly flat until Thanh Son, while the section through Thu Cuc and Ba Khe offers beautiful winding roads along the foothills of the Hoang Lien Range. We end the day in Nghia Lo, a lively mountain town surrounded by stunning scenery.

Day 2: Nghia Lo – Than Uyen (~180 km, ~5 h). B, L, D

A wild and bumpy ride awaits, with Lung Lo Pass providing the first challenge of the day, followed by the higher Khau Pha Pass. The route winds through the Mu Cang Chai mountains, nearly as high as Fansipan, and rewards riders with some of the most spectacular views in North Vietnam. It’s a demanding day on the bike, but one that is truly unforgettable.

Overnight in a hotel.

Day 3: Than Uyen – Sapa (~140 km, ~5 h). B, L, D

The region around Than Uyen is home to the Flower H’mong and Dzao communities, offering a fascinating glimpse into the cultures of Northern Vietnam. From here, we continue toward Sapa, riding easy tracks for around 100km before joining scenic mountain roads for the final 40km. Spend the night in Sapa and discover why this charming mountain town has become one of Vietnam’s most popular travel destinations.

Day 4: Sapa – Bac Ha (~100 km, ~3 h). B, L, D

The ride from Sapa to Bac Ha takes about three hours, descending first to Lao Cai, a border city where you can capture photos with China visible across the frontier. After lunch, we climb through spectacular mountain scenery on the 70km ride to Bac Ha. Surrounded by beautiful landscapes and ethnic villages, Bac Ha is our stop for the night.

Day 5: Bac Ha – Ha Giang (~200 km, ~6 h). B, L, D

After breakfast, we ride along tracks and quiet back roads toward Xin Man, passing through remote mountain landscapes and spectacular scenery. Later, we join the main road to Ha Giang, where we spend the night and arrange the required travel permit for the border region.

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

After obtaining the border-area permit in Ha Giang, we set off on narrow mountain roads that are both challenging and incredibly scenic, winding through the homelands of Northern Vietnam’s colorful hill-tribe communities.

The highlight of the day is the legendary Ma Pi Leng Pass, where dramatic mountain peaks rise above the winding Nho Que River far below. Continuing along a series of zigzag roads, we reach the remote town of Dong Van, where life has adapted to the rugged rocky landscape for generations. Upon arrival, there is time to explore the ancient quarter, with its traditional H’mong houses built from clay bricks and topped with centuries-old tile roofs.

Day 7: Dong Van – Bao Lac (~80 km, ~4 h). B, L, D

With sections of rough track and roads still under construction, today’s ride is slower than the distance might suggest. The reward is a journey through some of the most spectacular landscapes in Vietnam, where every turn reveals another stunning mountain view.

We continue across the wild and remote regions of Ha Giang before reaching Bao Lac, an ethnic crossroads of Northeast Vietnam. This vibrant mountain town is home to many different communities, and its famous Sunday market brings together people from both sides of the border.

Day 8: Bao Lac – Cao Bang (~150 km, ~5 h). B, L, D

A beautiful day’s ride leads us into Cao Bang Province, crossing several mountain passes with sweeping views over the surrounding valleys. The roads are generally easy, though the many blind curves keep the ride interesting. There are plenty of opportunities to stop for photos, drinks, and local food along the way. Including breaks, the journey takes around eight hours.

Overnight in a hotel.

Day 9: Cao Bang – Ban Gioc – Cao Bang (~200 km, ~5 h). B, L, D

From Cao Bang, we ride through spectacular mountain scenery to Ban Gioc Waterfall, Vietnam’s most impressive cascade, located about 100km from the city. Weather permitting, there is even a chance to swim close to the base of the falls, where the water plunges nearly 50 metres into the river below.

In the afternoon, we return to Cao Bang on a scenic 2.5-hour ride, with the option of exploring alternative back roads along the way.

Overnight in a hotel in Cao Bang.

Day 10: Cao Bang – Ba Be (~180 km, ~4 h). B, L, D

Today offers a fantastic mix of riding terrain. We begin on scenic paved mountain roads before turning onto smaller tracks that lead deep into Ba Be National Park. For intermediate riders, the highlight of the day is an exciting stream crossing section, a fun off-road challenge that adds a real sense of adventure to the journey.

Tonight, we stay in Pac Ngoi Village, a peaceful lakeside community in the heart of Ba Be National Park.

Day 11: Ba Be – Hanoi (~230 km, ~6 h). B, L

Our final day is an easy ride back to Hanoi, following quiet mountain roads before joining the new Highway 3. After many unforgettable days in the saddle, you can enjoy a relaxed morning and a later start.

We arrive in Hanoi at around 3:00 PM, comfortably ahead of the city’s busy rush hour traffic.

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

 

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An alternative route is available for riders who prefer to avoid off-road sections

Please note that our Ha Giang motorbike tours can be adapted to suit different weather conditions and riding abilities. If you prefer to avoid rough off-road sections such as bumpy tracks, stream crossings, and dirt roads, we offer an easier alternative. The first eight days follow the same route, while the final three days take a different direction on more comfortable roads.

Day 9: Cao Bang – Quang Uyen (~140 km, ~5 h). B, L, D

A scenic 90-minute ride brings us to the beautiful mountain village of Quang Uyen, nestled in a natural basin surrounded by limestone peaks. This is the homeland of the Nung An people, where we enjoy a warm homestay experience with a local family and delicious home-cooked meals prepared by our hosts.

From Quang Uyen, we continue through spectacular countryside to Ban Gioc Waterfall, Vietnam’s most impressive waterfall, located about 50km away. Weather permitting, there is an opportunity to swim close to the base of the falls, where the water plunges nearly 50 metres into the river below.

Day 10: Quang Uyen – Lang Son (~180 km, ~6 h). B, L, D

Today we follow the legendary Highway 4 from Quang Uyen to Lang Son, enjoying a scenic ride through the mountains of Northeast Vietnam. Upon arrival, there is time to explore this bustling border city, which has long served as an important trading gateway between Vietnam and China. You can also browse the lively Dong Kinh Market, famous for its wide variety of goods.

Overnight in a hotel.

Day 11: Lang Son – Hanoi (~150 km, ~3 h). B, L

Our final day is an easy ride back to Hanoi along the new Highway 1B. After ten memorable days on the road, you can enjoy a relaxed morning and a later start before beginning the journey home.

We arrive in Hanoi at around 3:00 PM, comfortably ahead of the city’s busy rush hour traffic.

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

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DESTINATIONS HIGHLIGHTS

Nghia Lo

Located about 250km north of Hanoi, Nghia Lo sits in the heart of one of the largest rice-growing regions in Northern Vietnam. Nestled at the foot of the Hoang Lien mountain range that stretches toward Sapa, it makes an ideal stop along Road 32. The town offers a pleasant atmosphere, comfortable accommodation, and a great introduction to the landscapes of the Northwest.

Than Uyen

Located about 400km north of Hanoi and 120km south of Sapa, Than Uyen is a small mountain town in Lai Chau Province. Set within the rugged Hoang Lien Range, it lies near the foothills of Fansipan, the 3,143m peak known as the Roof of Indochina. Surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery, Than Uyen offers a peaceful stopover and a taste of life in Vietnam’s remote northwest. Accommodation is simple but comfortable.

Sapa

Founded by the French in the early 20th century, Sapa is a charming mountain town located about 400km north of Hanoi in Lao Cai Province. Perched at around 1,600 metres above sea level, it is one of the few places in Vietnam that occasionally experiences snowfall. Surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery and vibrant ethnic cultures, Sapa has become one of the country’s most popular destinations. With tourism growing rapidly, visitors often find as many international travellers as local residents in the town. Accommodation is comfortable and well-developed.

Bac Ha

Located about 400km from Hanoi and 120km from Sapa, Bac Ha is often described as a quieter, less-developed alternative to Sapa. The town is famous for its Tam Hoa plums, which blossom three times before producing fruit, and for its locally distilled corn whiskey, a favourite drink among the region’s ethnic communities. Surrounded by mountains and colorful hill-tribe villages, Bac Ha offers an authentic glimpse into life in Northern Vietnam.

Ha Giang

Located about 320km north of Hanoi, Ha Giang is widely regarded as the most spectacular province in Northern Vietnam, and perhaps in the entire country. Towering mountains, winding roads, and breathtaking landscapes make it a paradise for adventurous riders. Along the way, you’ll meet welcoming local communities and, if your timing is right, experience the vibrant Sunday markets filled with color, culture, and tradition.

Dong Van

Located about 200km from Ha Giang City and 500km from Hanoi, Dong Van is one of the most breathtaking destinations in Northern Vietnam. Set within the Dong Van Karst Plateau Global Geopark, this remarkable region was the first UNESCO-recognized Geopark in Vietnam and the second in Southeast Asia. Formed over 550 million years ago, its dramatic limestone landscapes provide a stunning backdrop to the lives of 17 ethnic groups, whose traditions create a rich and diverse cultural heritage. If you visit on a Sunday, don’t miss the vibrant local market, considered one of the most colorful and fascinating in Northern Vietnam.

Bao Lac

Located about 400km from Hanoi in the far north of Vietnam near the Chinese border, Bao Lac sits amid a rugged mountain landscape and some of the country’s most remote communities. Many local families live in small villages scattered across the hills, where infrastructure remains limited and traditional ways of life continue. While Bao Lac itself is a modest mountain town, it serves as an important stopover for travelers exploring this remote and culturally diverse region. Accommodation is simple but suitable for an overnight stay.

Cao Bang

Located about 400km from Hanoi and 180km from Lang Son, Cao Bang is the largest town in Northeast Vietnam and the capital of the province of the same name. Surrounded by mountains and scenic countryside, it serves as an ideal gateway to some of the region’s most spectacular natural attractions. The city also holds an important place in Vietnamese history, particularly for its role in the campaigns along historic Highway 4. We use Cao Bang as a base for exploring the area, as it offers the best accommodation and services in the region.

Lang Son – An Optional Destination on Our Ha Giang Motorbike Tours

Located about 150km north of Hanoi, Lang Son is one of Vietnam’s most important border trading cities and a major gateway to China. Throughout history, its strategic location has made it the scene of numerous conflicts, from the colonial era to the Sino-Vietnamese War of 1979. Today, however, Lang Son is a thriving commercial centre with little visible evidence of its turbulent past. Visitors can explore its bustling markets, lively atmosphere, and wide range of goods imported from across the border, making it a fascinating stop in Northeast Vietnam.

Quang Hoa

Located in Quang Uyen District of Cao Bang Province, about 400km north of Hanoi via Lang Son or 500km via Cao Bang, this peaceful village is home mainly to the Nung people. It was among the first communities in the region to welcome foreign motorcyclists with homestay experiences, offering a warm glimpse into local life. Accommodation is simple but comfortable, providing an authentic stay in the countryside.

Nearby, the spectacular Ban Gioc Waterfall is one of Vietnam’s most impressive natural attractions. The route there passes through beautiful rural landscapes, though road conditions can vary depending on weather and commercial traffic near the border, adding a touch of adventure to the journey.

Ba Be

Ba Be, meaning “Three Lakes,” is the largest natural freshwater lake in Vietnam, stretching for about eight kilometres through the heart of Ba Be National Park. Unlike many lakes found in limestone karst regions, its waters remain year-round. The name comes from the lake’s three interconnected sections – Pe Leng, Pe Lu, and Pe Lam – which together form one beautiful body of water.

Surrounded by forested mountains and dramatic limestone cliffs, Ba Be is best explored by boat, allowing visitors to fully appreciate its peaceful scenery and hidden corners. Staying in a local homestay also offers a wonderful opportunity to experience the culture and hospitality of the Tay people who have lived here for generations.

Vu Linh

Located about 180km north of Hanoi in Yen Binh District, Yen Bai Province, Ngoi Tu is a peaceful lakeside commune inhabited mainly by the Dao people. Set along the shores of Thac Ba Lake, it offers a relaxing stop surrounded by rolling hills and calm waters. Our homestay is close to the lake, providing opportunities for boat trips and, weather permitting, a refreshing swim.

Ngoi Tu was among the first villages in the region to welcome international visitors in the late 1990s and has since become a well-known homestay destination. Despite its growing popularity, the village retains much of its rural charm and offers an authentic glimpse into local life and culture.

For more information or to discuss alternative routes and custom options for our 11-Day Ha Giang Motorbike Tours, feel free to contact us at [email protected]. We’ll be happy to help you plan the adventure that best suits your schedule and riding experience.