12-Day Northern Vietnam Motorcycle Adventure Tour

Set out on a 12-day motorcycle adventure from Hanoi & Halong Bay, riding through northern Vietnam’s most breathtaking landscapes.

The journey carries you along winding mountain roads, through vibrant markets, and into remote ethnic villages where culture comes alive.

You’ll conquer the famous Ha Giang Loop, stand in awe at Ban Gioc Waterfall, and unwind at Ba Be National Park before reaching the emerald waters of Halong Bay. Each day brings new flavors, local encounters, and authentic stays that turn this ride into more than a tour—it’s a true exploration of Vietnam’s spirit and scenery.

12-Day Motorcycle Adventure through northern Vietnam

Day 1: Hanoi – Vu Linh (180 km / 112 miles)

Start he bike in the morning, with a cup of coffee, just like most locals, gear up and  rev our bikes.

Riding west along the Red River, the city noise fades into open roads and lakeside beauty. Thac Ba Lake glitters under the sun, and by afternoon we reach Vu Linh, home to the Dzao people. A lakeside homestay welcomes us with warm smiles, marking the true beginning of our northern Vietnam ride.

Day 2: Vu Linh – Sapa (200 km / 124 miles)

Morning mist rises as we leave Vu Linh behind.

The ride climbs through terraced rice fields and colorful ethnic villages, where H’mong and Dzao locals tend to their land. By afternoon, the cool mountain air of Sapa greets us. We explore its lively market and, for those eager, ride further to Cat Cat Village for waterfalls and traditional crafts before settling into town for the night.

Day 3: Sapa – Bac Ha – Xin Man (130 km / 81 miles)

Today’s adventure motorbike ride leads us toward Bac Ha’s famous market, alive with Flower H’mong in bright traditional dress.

We ride through valleys, past waterfalls and quiet forests, before reaching Xin Man, a remote highland town. Evening arrives slowly here, giving us time to unwind and take in the untouched atmosphere.

Day 4: Xin Man – Ha Giang (150 km / 93 miles)

We ride out early, stopping at Hoang Su Phi for lunch among rice terraces carved deep into the mountains.

The road toughens as we push through a rugged jungle trail across Tay Con Linh range, one of the wildest stretches of the trip. By late afternoon, we roll into Ha Giang town, tired but exhilarated, ready for the adventures ahead.

Day 5: Ha Giang – Dong Van (150 km / 93 miles)

The road snakes through limestone mountains and rocky valleys.

A coffee stop in Quang Ba reveals sweeping views worth the climb. Lunch in Yen Minh fuels us before wandering Pho Bang’s clay houses and the historic Vuong Palace. By evening, Dong Van welcomes us with lively streets and a cozy hotel bed.

Day 6: Dong Van – Meo Vac – Bao Lac (120 km / 75 miles)

The legendary Ma Pi Leng Pass steals the show today—21 km (13 miles) of jaw-dropping cliffs and a river gorge that seems carved by giants.

We stop often, because you can’t just ride past these views. By nightfall, we settle in Bao Lac, a small town where ethnic groups gather each week at the bustling Sunday market.

Day 7: Bao Lac – Ba Be (130 km / 81 miles)

The road turns rugged, with broken stretches and river crossings that test our skills. After hours of adventure, Ba Be Lake offers the reward. We trade helmets for a boat ride, swimming in cool freshwater before sharing rice wine and a Tay-style dinner at a stilt-house homestay.

Day 8: Ba Be – Ban Gioc (200 km / 124 miles)

Back on the saddle, we chase winding roads toward the Chinese border. The roar of Ban Gioc Waterfall greets us in the afternoon—a cascade of white water tumbling through lush green cliffs. Few places compare to its raw power. We stay nearby, falling asleep to the sound of rushing water.

Day 9: Ban Gioc – Bac Son (180 km / 112 miles)

Rolling hills and rice valleys guide us south. The ride is smoother today, giving us time to stop, chat with locals, and capture the endless countryside. Bac Son Valley, ringed by mountains and green paddies, makes a peaceful overnight stop.

Day 10: Bac Son – Ha Long Bay (200 km / 124 miles)

We push toward the coast, swapping bikes for a boat. By afternoon, we’re gliding across the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay, surrounded by limestone towers rising like guardians of the sea. Evening falls on the deck of our cruise boat, where we dine under starlight.

Day 11: Halong Bay

Today is for slowing down. We kayak between karsts, explore hidden caves, and dive into warm waters. The bay shifts colors with the sun, from soft morning blues to fiery sunsets. After dinner onboard, we toast our final night under the stars.

Day 12: Halong Bay – Hanoi

The cruise ends with a farewell lunch on deck, and we trade the sea breeze for a road trip back to Hanoi. It’s a quiet ride, giving time to reflect on the 12 days of mountains, markets, and memories.

Back in the capital, the adventure closes, but the road stories stay forever.