12 Day Northern Laos Motorcycle Adventure

This is a ride to join along, a 12-day motorbike adventure through Laos, exploring its winding roads, misty mountains, and quiet riverside towns. Starting from Vientiane on a reliable CRF 300 with upgrades to other bikes available you’ll experience the thrill of open roads combined with the calm of Laos’s stunning landscapes.

Over 12 days, this loop takes you from the plains of Paksan to the highlands around Phonsavanh, the scenic viewpoints of The Rock, and the peaceful riverside villages of Nong Khiaw and Pakbeng, before finishing in the cultural heart of Luang Prabang and back to Vientiane.

Expect long scenic stretches, winding curves, and plenty of opportunities to slow down, take in the views, and meet locals along the way. This is not just a ride it’s an immersive journey through the heart of Laos, perfect for riders who crave adventure but appreciate a relaxed, human-paced exploration. Check out Laos motorcycle tours

Ride the northern Laos on this amazing 12 day adventure

Day 1: Vientiane to Paksan (187 km / 116 miles)

The journey begins in Vientiane, where the roads are wide and traffic is light. Today’s 187 km (116 miles) ride takes you across flat countryside, small villages, and green rice fields. It’s a great chance to warm up your bike and get used to Laos’s quiet roads. By the time you reach Paksan, the afternoon light paints the Mekong River beautifully, making it a perfect first stop on your adventure.

Day 2: Paksan to The Rock Viewpoint (120 km / 75 miles)

This short but scenic 120 km (75 miles) ride leads you into rolling hills and quiet backroads. The highlight is reaching The Rock Viewpoint, where the valley below stretches endlessly and the sunset turns everything golden. It’s an easy day of riding with plenty of stops to enjoy the views.

Day 3: The Rock Viewpoint to Muang Mok (238 km / 148 miles)

Today’s ride is longer and through highland roads and remote villages. The curves are fun, the air is fresh, and the scenery keeps changing from forested hills to wide valleys. Arriving in Muang Mok, you’ll feel accomplished and ready to explore more of Laos’s untouched landscapes.

Day 4: Muang Mok to Phonsavanh (135 km / 84 miles)

This stretch or amazing trails takes you further into the mountains. The roads twist gently through forests and past small farms. Phonsavanh is known for its peaceful countryside, and today’s ride offers a relaxed pace with plenty of stops for photos and local snacks.

Day 5: Phonsavanh to Sop Lao (140 km / 87 miles)

The ride today to Sop Lao passes through misty highlands and coffee plantations. Roads are quiet and winding, perfect for enjoying the bike and the scenery. The town itself is small and calm, a nice place to rest after a day on the road.

Day 6: Sop Lao to Nong Khiaw (232 km / 144 miles)

This is one of the longer rides. The route climbs into higher mountains, with dramatic valleys and rivers beside the road. Reaching Nong Khiaw, the scenery opens up with towering limestone cliffs and the serene Nam Ou River—one of the most beautiful spots in Northern Laos.

Day 7: Nong Khiaw to Oudomxay (128 km / 80 miles)

A moderate ride today through forests, small villages, and mountain curves. The road is fun but calm, giving you time to enjoy the landscapes. Oudomxay welcomes you with a mix of local life and quiet streets, perfect for winding down after a day on the bike.

Day 8: Oudomxay to Pakbeng (142 km / 88 miles)

Start the day with a fresh cup of Lao coffee, get on the saddle and ride to Pakbeng follows the Nam Ou River for much of the way. It’s scenic and peaceful, with stretches of open road and small villages. Pakbeng sits right on the riverbank, a tranquil spot to relax for the evening.

Day 9: Pakbeng to Luang Prabang (224 km / 139 miles)

Today’s ride leads you to the cultural heart of Northern Laos, Luang Prabang. The route winds through hills, forests, and riverside stretches, giving you time to reflect on the journey so far. Arriving in Luang Prabang, you’re greeted by temples, colonial architecture, and the charm of this UNESCO-listed town.

Day 10: Luang Prabang Loop (50 km / 31 miles)

Today is a short 50 km (31 miles) ride around Luang Prabang. Explore surrounding villages, waterfalls, and quiet roads at a leisurely pace. It’s perfect for taking in the local culture and scenery without rushing.

Day 11: Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng (183 km / 114 miles)

Ride to Vang Vieng takes you down winding mountain roads and open valleys. The scenery changes constantly, from limestone cliffs to rivers and farmland. Vang Vieng is lively but still surrounded by beautiful nature, making it a rewarding stop.

Day 12: Vang Vieng to Vientiane (200 km / 124 miles)

The final leg covers 200 km back to Vientiane. The road is a mix of smooth curves and straight stretches, perfect for reflecting on the adventure. Arriving in the capital, you can feel the sense of accomplishment from 12 days exploring Laos on two wheels.