North Vietnam Bike Tour

Start/Finish

Hanoi
Hanoi

Duration

10 days - 9 nights

Price from

US$2900

Places visited

Hanoi, Lang Son, Cao Bang, Bao Lac, Dong Van, Ha Giang, Sapa

Overview

Experience the thrill of cycling through the stunning landscapes of northern Vietnam! Our North Vietnam Bike Tour is a unique adventure that takes you from bustling cities to tranquil villages, through majestic mountains and along scenic river valleys. This tour offers a perfect blend of challenging rides, cultural immersion, and breathtaking scenery. Along the way, you'll visit historic sites, interact with local communities, and savor delicious Vietnamese cuisine. With expert guides and full support throughout the journey, this is an unforgettable cycling experience for riders of all skill levels. Join us for the North Vietnam Bike Tour and discover the beauty and charm of this remarkable region!


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Experience the thrill of cycling through the stunning landscapes of northern Vietnam! Our North Vietnam Bike Tour is a unique adventure that takes you from bustling cities to tranquil villages, through majestic mountains and along scenic river valleys. This tour offers a perfect blend of challenging rides, cultural immersion, and breathtaking scenery. Along the way, you'll visit historic sites, interact with local communities, and savor delicious Vietnamese cuisine. With expert guides and full support throughout the journey, this is an unforgettable cycling experience for riders of all skill levels. Join us for the North Vietnam Bike Tour and discover the ...
Read more

Trip highlights

  • Spectacular Landscapes: Cycle through the breathtaking scenery of northern Vietnam, from lush valleys to towering mountains, offering unparalleled views at every turn.
  • Challenging Routes: Tackle a variety of terrains, including winding mountain roads, steep climbs, and exhilarating descents, making this tour a rewarding challenge for cycling enthusiasts.
  • Cultural Immersion: Experience authentic Vietnamese culture by visiting traditional villages, meeting local people, and learning about their customs and way of life.
  • Historic Sites: Explore significant landmarks and historic locations, gaining insight into Vietnam's rich history and heritage.
  • Culinary Delights: Savor the diverse flavors of Vietnamese cuisine, with opportunities to enjoy traditional dishes at local restaurants and street markets.
  • Support and Guidance: Benefit from experienced tour guides, van and truck support, and a team dedicated to ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey.
  • Accommodation and Hospitality: Stay in carefully selected hotels, offering comfort and relaxation after a day of cycling.

This tour offers an unforgettable cycling experience, combining adventure, culture, and stunning landscapes in one amazing package.

 

Trip Summary

Day 1
Hanoi Arrival
Day 2
Journey to Thai Nguyen, Cycle to Lang Son
Day 3
Ride from Lang Son to Cao Bang
Depart for Home

Detailed itinerary

Day 1
Hanoi Arrival

 

Guests are welcomed to Hanoi with a pickup service by our guide and driver. We provide a suitable-sized van to accommodate guests arriving on different flights.

Upon arrival at the hotel, the rest of the day is free for you to explore Hanoi's Old Quarter at your leisure. 

Take this time to stroll through the bustling streets and soak in the local culture.

In the evening, join us for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant, where you'll have the chance to enjoy Vietnamese cuisine and meet fellow travelers.

Meal: D

Accommodation at the Oriental Jade Hotel, Hanoi.

Overnight in Hanoi
Day 2
Journey to Thai Nguyen, Cycle to Lang Son

 

The day begins with a 1.5-hour drive from Hanoi to Thai Nguyen, where our cycling adventure starts. Upon arrival, your bikes will be set up and ready for the ride ahead. Before we embark, enjoy a cup of coffee and a snack to fuel up for the day's adventure.

The ride from Thai Nguyen to Lang Son covers a distance of 167 kilometers with an elevation gain of 1,700 meters, providing a mix of challenging climbs and exhilarating descents. The route takes you through a variety of landscapes, from bustling towns to peaceful countryside, with lush green fields and rolling hills. Along the way, you'll encounter local villages, offering a glimpse into rural life in Vietnam, and scenic spots where you can pause to take in the beauty of the surrounding nature.

At midday, we'll stop for lunch at a local restaurant to enjoy a traditional Vietnamese meal, allowing you to rest and recharge before continuing the ride. With van and truck support throughout the day, you'll have access to water, snacks, and any assistance you might need.

The day's cycling concludes in Lang Son, where you'll check into the Four Points by Sheraton for a comfortable overnight stay. This gives you a chance to relax and unwind after an exhilarating day of cycling.

Meal: B, L

Accommodation at the Four Points by Sheraton, Lang Son

Cycling distance: 167 km 

Elevation gain: 1700 m

Overnight in Lang Son
Day 3
Ride from Lang Son to Cao Bang

 

The day begins with a scenic ride from your hotel in Lang Son, offering a mix of urban and rural landscapes. This 164-kilometer route to Cao Bang is both challenging and rewarding, with an elevation gain of 3,020 meters, ensuring a day filled with breathtaking climbs and exhilarating descents.

As you leave Lang Son, the bustling cityscape gives way to tranquil countryside, with lush fields, quaint villages, and winding roads. The route leads you through a series of ascents and descents, providing a thrilling ride with stunning views at every turn. Expect to see traditional homes, local farmers at work, and vibrant green hills as you pedal through this picturesque region of northern Vietnam.

Midway through the ride, you'll stop for lunch in Dong Ke, a small town where a local restaurant will serve you a traditional Vietnamese meal. This break is an excellent opportunity to rest and refuel for the remaining journey to Cao Bang.

Throughout the day, you'll have van and truck support, ensuring you have access to water, snacks, and any assistance you might need along the way. The tour guide will be there to lead the way and provide insights into the local culture and history.

As you approach Cao Bang, the landscape becomes even more dramatic, with rugged mountains and lush valleys framing the route. After completing the ride, you'll check into the hotel in Cao Bang, where you can relax and unwind after a challenging day on the bike.

Meal: B, L

Accommodation at Luxury Hotel Cao Bang

Cycling distance: 164 km 

Elevation gain: 3020 m

Overnight in Cao Bang
Day 4
Ride from Cao Bang to Bao Lac

 

We begin the day with a 30-minute drive from Cao Bang to the starting point of our ride. Today, we cycle over two of the region's renowned mountain passes: Ta Nenh and Khau Coc Tra, offering stunning views and thrilling climbs. As we traverse these iconic routes, the landscape unfolds with lush greenery, terraced fields, and winding roads that lead to breathtaking vistas.

Our ride concludes in Bao Lac, arriving at around 2 PM. After reaching Bao Lac, we'll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, where you can savor authentic Vietnamese cuisine. Following lunch, we proceed to check-in at our hotel, providing a comfortable base for relaxation.

In the afternoon, there's an optional activity to trek to a traditional village. This excursion offers a deeper look into the local culture and customs, giving you the chance to explore the village's unique architecture and interact with its residents.

Throughout the day, you'll have full support from our van and truck, with a tour guide to lead the way and ensure you have water and snacks readily available during the ride.

Meal: B, L

Accommodation at Duc Tai Hotel, Bao Lac

Cycling distance: 86 km 

Elevation gain: 2195 m

Overnight in Bao Lac
Day 5
Bao Lac to Dong Van

 

Today's journey takes you on an 88-kilometer cycling adventure from Bao Lac to Dong Van, with an elevation gain of 3,106 meters. The ride begins from your hotel in Bao Lac, leading you through some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in northern Vietnam. This day will be filled with challenging climbs, including the renowned Ma Pi Leng Pass, known for its breathtaking views and steep inclines.

Leaving Bao Lac, you will cycle through lush valleys, winding mountain roads, and quaint villages, capturing the essence of Vietnam's northern highlands. As you approach Ma Pi Leng Pass, you'll be greeted with sweeping vistas that stretch over deep gorges and dramatic cliffs, offering a truly exhilarating experience.

Our support team is on hand throughout the day with van and truck support, providing water, snacks, and any assistance you may need. A knowledgeable tour guide will lead the way, ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey.

Around midday, we'll stop for lunch at a local restaurant, giving you the chance to rest, refuel, and savor authentic Vietnamese cuisine before continuing towards Dong Van. After lunch, you'll continue cycling through the scenic highlands, descending into Dong Van as the day's ride concludes.

Meals: B, L

Accommodation at Hoa Cuong, Dong Van

Cycling distance: 88 km 

Elevation gain: 3,106 m

Overnight in
Day 6
Ride from Dong Van to Ha Giang

 

Today's cycling adventure starts right from your hotel in Dong Van, taking you through the stunning karst plateau and onwards to Ha Giang. This 133-kilometer route, with an elevation gain of 3,038 meters, offers a mix of challenging climbs, thrilling descents, and picturesque landscapes that showcase the rugged beauty of northern Vietnam.

As you leave Dong Van, you’ll traverse the motion karst plateau, a region known for its dramatic limestone formations and unique geological features. The winding roads and steep hills present a challenge, but they also offer breathtaking views that make the effort worthwhile.

Midway through the ride, we'll stop for lunch at a local restaurant. This is an opportunity to enjoy traditional Vietnamese cuisine and take a well-deserved break from the challenging terrain.

As the ride continues towards Ha Giang, you'll pass through a variety of landscapes, from lush forests to terraced rice fields. Along the way, you may encounter local villagers, adding to the cultural richness of the experience.

Upon reaching Ha Giang, you'll have time to relax and unwind, having completed a demanding yet rewarding day of cycling through Vietnam's northern highlands.

Meals: B, L

Accommodation: Phoenix Hotel Ha Giang

Cycling distance: 133 km 

Elevation gain: 3,038 m

Overnight in Ha Giang
Day 7
Ride from Ha Giang to Sapa

 

The day begins with a 1 hour and 15 minute drive from Ha Giang to the starting point of today's ride. This is one of the longest rides of the tour, stretching 161 kilometers with an elevation gain of 2,626 meters. The journey to Sapa is a challenging and rewarding cycling experience, taking you through diverse landscapes and offering breathtaking views.

Lunch is planned at a local restaurant, providing a chance to rest and refuel before tackling the rest of the route. This is a great opportunity to enjoy traditional Vietnamese cuisine and take in the unique ambiance of the region.

As you near Sapa, the scenery becomes more mountainous, with stunning vistas and cooler temperatures. Once you reach Sapa, check into your accommodation at the BB Resort & Spa, where you can relax and recover from the day's ride. The resort offers comfortable amenities and beautiful views, making it the perfect place to unwind.

Meals: B, L

Accommodation at BB Resort & Spa, Sapa

Cycling distance: 161 km 

Elevation gain: 2,626 m

Overnight in Sapa
Day 8
Sapa Free Day at Your Leisure

 

Enjoy a free day in Sapa, exploring its vibrant markets, breathtaking terraced rice fields, and picturesque landscapes. Visit traditional villages or simply relax and take in the mountain air.

 

Overnight in Sapa
Day 9
Drive to Hanoi

 

The day begins with a scenic drive from Sapa to Hanoi, offering a relaxing journey through the diverse landscapes of northern Vietnam. Enjoy the views as you descend from the mountains and head towards the bustling capital city. Along the way, take in the changing scenery, from terraced rice fields to urban centers.

Upon arrival in Hanoi, check into your hotel and unwind. In the evening, join us for a special farewell dinner, where we celebrate the journey and the friendships formed during the tour. It's a perfect opportunity to share stories, reflect on the adventure, and enjoy a final evening together in Vietnam's vibrant capital.

Overnight in Hanoi
Day 10
Departure from Hanoi

 

On Day 10, it's time to say goodbye to Vietnam as you depart from Hanoi. Our team will arrange a transfer from your hotel to the airport, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey.

 

As you prepare to leave, take a moment to reflect on the memories you've made during your tour. 

From cycling through stunning landscapes to exploring local culture and cuisine, this experience will undoubtedly stay with you for years to come.

Your transfer to the airport will be scheduled according to your flight time, allowing you to relax and enjoy the journey. The hotel staff and our team will be on hand to assist with your departure, ensuring everything goes smoothly.

Overnight in Home
Depart for Home

Pricing notes

Limited to 24 postions, hold your spot with a $250 USD deposit (refundable if position subsequently filled).

$2900 USD (single rooms)

$2500 USD (share / double / twin rooms)

Includes:

  • Nine (9) nights 3-5 star Hotels
  • All breakfasts & Welcome + Farewell Dinner 
  • 7 Lunches
  • Full luxury transport for you + BYO bike 
  • Experienced tour and bicycle guides

Excludes: 

Your Trip Maps

FAQs

Whether you need a visa to enter Vietnam depends on your nationality and the duration of your stay. Here's a general guideline:

  • Visa Exemption: Some nationalities are exempt from visa requirements for certain periods of stay. For example, citizens of several ASEAN countries, as well as certain European countries, can enter Vietnam without a visa for stays of up to 15 to 30 days.
  • Visa on Arrival (VOA): For citizens of countries that do not qualify for visa exemption, you may be eligible to obtain a visa on arrival (VOA) if you are arriving by air. However, you need to apply for a visa approval letter online in advance and then obtain the visa stamp upon arrival at one of the international airports in Vietnam.
  • E-Visa: Some nationalities are eligible to apply for an e-visa online, which allows for a single-entry visit of up to 30 days. The e-visa must be applied for in advance through the official website of the Vietnam Immigration Department.
  • Visa from Embassy or Consulate: If you do not qualify for visa exemption, VOA, or e-visa, you will need to apply for a visa at the nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate before traveling to Vietnam.

It's essential to check the specific visa requirements based on your nationality and travel plans before your trip to Vietnam to ensure compliance with immigration regulations.

 

For traveling in South Vietnam and Dalat in November, it's advisable to pack a variety of clothing to accommodate the different climates and activities. Here's a suggested packing list:

  • Lightweight clothing: Bring breathable, moisture-wicking clothes for the warmer weather in South Vietnam, including shorts, T-shirts, and dresses. For Dalat's cooler climate, pack long-sleeved shirts, pants, and a light jacket or sweater for the evenings.
  • Sun protection: Don't forget to pack sunscreen with a high SPF, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from the strong sun, especially in South Vietnam.
  • Rain gear: While November generally sees lower rainfall, it's still a good idea to pack a compact umbrella or a lightweight raincoat, especially for sudden showers in Dalat.
  • Comfortable walking shoes: Bring sturdy walking shoes or sandals for exploring cities and trekking in Dalat's scenic countryside.
  • Insect repellent: Mosquitoes can be present, especially in more rural areas, so pack insect repellent to avoid bites.
  • Travel adapter and charger: Ensure you have the appropriate power adapter for Vietnam's electrical outlets and bring chargers for your electronic devices.
  • Personal medication and toiletries: Pack any necessary medications, along with toiletries such as shampoo, toothpaste, and a first aid kit.
  • Travel documents: Don't forget your passport, travel insurance, flight tickets, and any necessary visas for your trip.
  • Camera and accessories: Capture the beautiful landscapes and memorable moments of your trip with a camera or smartphone, along with extra memory cards and batteries.
  • Light backpack: Bring a small backpack or daypack to carry essentials like water, snacks, a map, and a guidebook while exploring.

By packing these essentials, you'll be well-prepared for your travels in South Vietnam and Dalat in November, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

 

In November, South Vietnam typically experiences warm and humid weather with occasional rain showers. Temperatures range from around 25 to 32 degrees Celsius (77 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit). While it's generally sunny and pleasant, there may be short bursts of rain due to the tail end of the rainy season. It's advisable to pack lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and an umbrella or raincoat for any unexpected showers.

Dalat experiences cool and pleasant weather due to its high elevation. Temperatures typically range from around 15 to 24 degrees Celsius (59 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day, with cooler evenings. November marks the end of the rainy season in Dalat, so you can expect relatively dry conditions with occasional light showers. The cooler temperatures and lower humidity make November an ideal time to visit Dalat for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

The 2025 Tour de Viet will be a Gravel and Road Bicycle Challenge, over 6 Stages in North Vietnam, using sealed and some unsealed road surfaces.
This event and format will continue to be offered to tour / amateur groups of any size, at any time of the year, so you can enjoy a fully supported, challenging cycling tour.

 Entry in the 2025 TDV will provide accommodation and transport for Teams to have 8 members - 6 cyclists and 2 supporters.   Each Team will manage themselves to ensure a minimum specified number of cyclists riding at all times.   Each team will have their own transport.

The long term goal is for 2025 TDV to develop into a 3-week Grand Tour of all of Vietnam, while still providing private guided touring trips on request.   Sister events include each week of the 3-week tour, or tours based in one location, such as Dalat (south VN), Da Nang (central) and Ha Giang (north).

Several factors have led to Tour de Viet's (TDV) partnership with Blue Dragon Childen's Foundation (BDCF).

The TDV founders are Vietnamese and Australian, and BDCF is an Australian NGO working in Vietnam from 2002.   BDCF rescues Vietnamese children caught in human trafficking, even bringing them home from other countries, and leads the way in helping change applicable laws.   The victims often feel they have no choice and knowingly walk into danger, or are taken advantage of with false promises.   BDCF has a Nationwide & International reputation for it's honesty, effectiveness and real results, and provide ongoing education and workforce training for kids saved from the streets.
TDV seeks to use the characteristics of cycling, such as resilience to keep going and freedom to go where you like, to inspire the Staff, Families and Kids of BDCF to keep going one more day.   It will also help to inspire you as you see a mountain ahead - one pedal-stroke at a time.  TDV will provide opportunities for Particiapants to meet BDCF to understand their story and feel a connection to them, seeing the results of donations - not just putting cash in a container.   The TDV will be going through many areas affected by trafficking and where BDCF works.

These insights will inspire Particiapants and give more meaning to your Trip.   We believe you will be able to more readily inspire others to join you, to fundraise for donations or help obtain sponsorship for your Team.   Ultimately we want to increase the ability of BDCF to help more Vietnamese families and communities, to give a little thanks back for the wonderful country and opportunity to visit this land.

TDV are very honoured to be associated with Blue Dragon, and during our Welcome Dinner we'll ask Participants to kindly donate $1 USD each to BDCF.