Riveting Northwest Vietnam Motorbike Tour to Mu Cang Chai, Ngoc Chien, Lai Chau, Sapa – 10 days

Brief Itineary:

Day 1: Hanoi – Mai Chau

Day 2: Mai Chau – Ta Xua

Day 3: Ta Xua – Mu Cang Chai

Day 4: Mu Cang Chai – Ngoc Chien

Day 5: Ngoc Chien – Thuan Chau (Ban Tham) – Tuan Giao

Day 6: Tuan Giao – Muong Lay – Lai Chau

Day 7: Lai Chau – Sapa

Day 8: Sapa Motorbike Tour to Villages

Day 9: Sapa – Thac Ba

Day 10: Thac Ba – Hanoi

Day 1: Hanoi motorbike tour to Mai Chau ( L, D)

Start your motorbike tour from Hanoi in the morning. Ensure you have all necessary safety gear and a well-maintained motorbike.

Head west from Hanoi and ride through picturesque rural landscapes, passing by verdant rice paddies, small villages, and winding roads. Enjoy the refreshing change of scenery as you leave the bustling city behind.

Arrive in Mai Chau Valley, known for its stunning natural beauty and the traditional stilt houses of the White Thai ethnic minority. Take a break and enjoy a delicious lunch at a local village.

Spend the afternoon exploring the charming villages of Mai Chau, such as Lac Village and Pom Coong Village. Immerse yourself in the local culture, interact with the villagers, and observe their traditional crafts and daily activities.

 Stay overnight in a traditional homestay or a comfortable guesthouse in Mai Chau. Enjoy a traditional dinner with the host family and experience the warm hospitality of the locals.

Summary:

Distance: 150 km

Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: homestay

Day 2: Mai Chau motorbike tour to Ta Xua via Moc Chau (B, L, D)

Start your day by riding to Hang Kia Paco, a scenic valley located in the Hoa Binh Province. The route offers breathtaking mountain views, winding roads, and lush forests. Stop at Hang Kia Paco and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the valley. Enjoy the fresh air, take in the surrounding nature, and interact with the local H’Mong ethnic minority communities.Head northwest from Mai Chau and ride through picturesque rural landscapes. Enjoy the scenic beauty as you pass by lush green tea plantations, rolling hills, and ethnic minority villages.

Explore Moc Chau: Arrive in Moc Chau, known for its tea plantations, flower gardens, and dairy farms. Take a break and have a delicious lunch at a local restaurant.

Continue riding to Ta Xua, a stunning mountainous area known for its breathtaking landscapes. Ta Xua is renowned for its majestic mountains, lush forests, and the breathtaking “Sea of Clouds” phenomenon. It’s a paradise for nature lovers and trekkers seeking panoramic views and outdoor adventures.

Arrive in Ta Xua and spend the rest of the day exploring the area.

Overnight in Ta Xua homestay.

Summary:

Distance: 180 km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Homestay

Day 3: Ta Xua motorbike tour to Mu Cang Chai (B, L, D)

Early morning you will ride along the famous Dinosaur Spine, a scenic road that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

After breakfast, you will depart from Ta Xua and head towards Mu Cang Chai while you ride through picturesque valleys and terraced rice fields.

Mu Cang Chai is home to some of Asia’s most magnificent cultivated topography. This splendid place is located at the foot of the Hoang Lien Son mountain of Yen Bai province & It is well-known for spectacular terraced rice fields which are best for nature lovers, luring photographers and avid motorbikers besides this, visitors will also amaze with stunning beauties of other famous destinations with Khau Pha pass, Tu Le commune, La Pan Tan … with one side of the most tortuous passes and the other of the most beautiful terraced fields in the country.

Enjoy the stunning scenery and take plenty of breaks for photos.

Arrive in Mu Cang Chai, a famous destination has been recognized as a national landscape heritage of Vietnam. You will explore the area, visit local villages, and learn about the local culture.

Overnight in Mu Cang Chai.

Summary:

Distance: 190 km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Guest house

Day 4: Mu Cang Chai motorbike tour to Ngoc Chien – Muong La (B, L, D)

Start your day by exploring the stunning rice terraces of Mu Cang Chai, including Mam Xoi, Mong Ngua and La Pan Tan. Enjoy the beauty of the landscapes and take memorable photos.

Leave Mu Cang Chai and continue your motorbike tour towards Ngoc Chien. Ride along winding mountain roads and enjoy the panoramic views. Ngoc Chien offers a serene and culturally enriching experience for travelers seeking to connect with nature and immerse themselves in the traditions of Vietnam’s ethnic communities. Its natural beauty, traditional crafts, and warm hospitality make it a hidden gem in the Muong La District.

Arrive in Ngoc Chien and check into your accommodation. There’s a natural hot spring where you can relax and enjoy the warm mineral-rich waters. Spend the afternoon exploring the surrounding area, visit nearby villages, and interact with the locals.

Overnight in Ngoc Chien.

Summary:

Distance: 60 km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Guest house

Day 5: Ngoc Chien motorbike tour to Ban Tham Cave in Thuan Chau  – Tuan Giao via Son La city (B, L, D)

Start the day early and head towards Thuan Chau, passing through Ban Tham Cave.

Enjoy the scenic ride through mountainous landscapes with the ride through Ban Tham cave and ride along the coffee farms. Continue riding to Tuan Giao, a town located in Dien Bien Province via the magnificent Pha Din Pass. The name “Pha Din” translates to “heaven and earth,” reflecting the awe-inspiring scenery that unfolds along the pass. The pass stretches across rugged mountains, deep valleys, and winding roads, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. It is often shrouded in mist, adding an ethereal atmosphere to the journey.

Pha Din Pass holds historical importance as it was a critical strategic location during the Indochina War. It served as a vital supply route for the Vietnamese soldiers, and battles were fought in this area. Today, remnants of the war, such as bunkers and memorials, can still be found along the pass, serving as a reminder of the past. The road traversing Pha Din Pass is known for its challenging nature, with steep inclines, sharp curves, and narrow sections. It offers a thrilling experience for motorcyclists and adventurous drivers. Riding through Pha Din Pass provides an opportunity to witness the raw beauty of Vietnam’s mountainous landscapes. The scenery changes dramatically as you ascend and descend the pass, with lush green forests

Arrive in Tuan Giao nestled in the lush green valleys and rolling hills of the region. It is surrounded by mountains, rivers, and terraced rice fields, creating a picturesque setting.and explore the town or visit nearby attractions.

Overnight in Tuan Giao.

Summary:

Distance: 170 km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Guest house

Day 6: Tuan Giao motorbike tour to Lai Chau via Muong Lay and Sin Ho (B, L, D)

Leave Tuan Giao and ride towards Muong Lay. Enjoy the scenic route as you pass through the beautiful landscapes of the region. Muong Lay Town is a small rural settlement located in the northern part of Vietnam in the Dien Bien province, which is known for its beautiful landscapes and historical significance. Muong Lay Village is located near the Da River and surrounded by mountains, making it a picturesque location. Historically, Muong Lay Village has been home to various ethnic groups, including the Thai, H’Mong, and Kho Mu. These communities have their own distinct cultures, traditions, and languages. The village has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors can experience traditional customs, music, dance, and crafts by interacting with the locals. You have lunch here.

Continue riding to Sin Ho, a remote mountain town known for its pristine nature and ethnic minority culture. Sin Ho Town is surrounded by towering mountains, lush forests, and terraced rice fields. The landscape is incredibly picturesque, with misty valleys and breathtaking vistas. The region is inhabited by various ethnic minority groups, including the Red Dao, H’Mong, and Thai people, each with their own distinct cultures and traditions. Due to its remote location, Sin Ho Town has retained its authentic charm and is relatively untouched by mass tourism.

Arrive in Sin Ho, Lai Chau and spend the night there.

Summary:

Distance: 197 km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Guest house

Day 7: Lai Chau motorbike tour O Quy Ho Pass to Sapa (B, L, D)

Depart from Sin Ho and ride towards Lai Chau. Enjoy the ride through the winding mountain roads and admire the breathtaking scenery. Ride through the famous O Quy Ho Pass, one of the most scenic mountains passes in Vietnam.

Arrive in Sapa, a popular tourist destination known for its stunning rice terraces and ethnic minority villages.

Settle in for the night in Sapa town.

Overnight in Sapa

Summary:

Distance: 100 km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: hotel

Day 8: Sapa Motorbike Tour to Cat Cat, Lao Chai, and Ta van (B, L, D)

A full-day motorbike tour in Sapa is a thrilling and immersive way to explore the stunning landscapes and ethnic minority villages of this mountainous region in northern Vietnam. Riding a motorbike allows you to access remote areas and experience the natural beauty up close.

Start your day early in the morning to make the most of your tour. Meet your guide, ensure you have all necessary safety gear (helmet, protective clothing), and familiarize yourself with the motorbike.

Head to Cat Cat Village, which is about 3 kilometers from Sapa Town. This village is home to the Black H’Mong ethnic group. Explore the village, visit local houses, witness traditional crafts, and learn about their daily lives and customs.

Continue to Lao Chai and Ta Van Villages: Ride through scenic roads and reach Lao Chai Village, inhabited by the Black H’Mong people. Take a walk through the village and enjoy the beautiful terraced rice fields. Proceed to Ta Van Village, home to the Giay ethnic group, and interact with the locals.

Stop at a local restaurant in Ta Van or a scenic spot to enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch. Savor local specialties and rest for a while, taking in the tranquil surroundings.

After lunch, ride through the picturesque Muong Hoa Valley, known for its breathtaking landscapes. Marvel at the terraced rice fields, cascading waterfalls, and lush green hills as you navigate the winding roads.

Ride off the beaten path to a less-visited village, such as Ban Ho or Ta Phin, where you can experience the authentic culture of the Red Dao or other ethnic communities. Explore the village, interact with the locals, and learn about their unique customs and traditions.

After an adventurous day of exploring, make your way back to Sapa Town. Enjoy the scenic ride and take in the panoramic views of the mountains and valleys.

Arrive back in Sapa in the late afternoon or early evening, depending onReturn to Sapa town and spend another night there.

Overnight in Sapa

Summary:

Distance: 100 km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Guest house

Day 9: Sapa motorbike tour to Thac Ba Lake – Boat Trip (B, L, D)

Leave Sapa and enjoy the scenic ride as you pass through the countryside and reach Thac Ba Lake which is a large man-made lake located in the Yen Bai Province of northern Vietnam. Thac Ba Lake is known for its scenic beauty, serene atmosphere, and cultural significance. Thac Ba Lake was created in 1970 with the construction of the Thac Ba hydroelectric plant on the Chay River. The lake covers an area of about 23,400 hectares and is surrounded by picturesque mountains, dense forests, and small islands. The turquoise waters of the lake, contrasting with the lush green surroundings, create a tranquil and captivating landscape.

The lake is not only a haven for nature lovers but also holds cultural importance. It is home to several ethnic minority communities, including the Tay and Dao people. These communities have preserved their traditional way of life, customs, and handicrafts. Visitors to Thac Ba Lake can visit the local villages, interact with the locals, and learn about their unique cultural heritage.

One of the popular activities at Thac Ba Lake is cruising. Boating on the lake allows visitors to admire the breathtaking scenery, explore the small islands, and visit floating villages.

Take a boat trip on Thac Ba Lake and explore its tranquil waters, surrounded by lush greenery and karst mountains.

Enjoy the serene atmosphere and relax on the boat.

After the boat trip, your will have an authentic dinner hosted by a hospital host and spend the night at homestay.

Overnight at Vu Linh family homestay

Summary:

Distance: 180 km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Guest house

Day 10: Thac Ba Motorbike Tour to Hanoi (B, L)

Begin your journey back to Hanoi from Thac Ba Lake.

Enjoy the ride through rural areas and picturesque landscapes. Take breaks along the way to rest and appreciate the surroundings.

Arrive back in Hanoi, concluding your motorbike tour.

End of the trip

Summary:

Distance: 180 km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: none