NORTHEAST VIETNAM CYCLING

Arrival & First Day Itinerary ✈️🏨

Upon arrival, a Vietnam Adventure Cycling Tour guide will be at the airport to greet you and assist with your transfer to the hotel for check-in. The remainder of the day is yours to relax and enjoy at leisure. ☕🛏️

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  • ACTIVITIES:
    
    • Bike Fitting

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  • MEALS:
    
    • Welcome Dinner

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  • HOTEL:
    
    • JM Marvel Hanoi Hotel or similar

Exploring Hanoi’s Old Quarter & Night Train to Lao Cai 🏮🚂

Spend the day immersing yourself in the vibrant charm of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. This historic heart of Vietnam’s capital is a fascinating maze of narrow, cobblestone streets, each originally named after a specific trade or guild. Today, the district is alive with cozy guesthouses, bustling restaurants, charming cafés, and boutique shops, yet its rich heritage remains beautifully preserved.

Whether you choose to unwind in a hidden coffee shop ☕, explore cultural treasures 🏛️, or visit must-see landmarks like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, this is a perfect opportunity to soak in the energy of the city.

After dinner 🍽️, we board the night train 🚆 to Lao Cai, a border city near China, where our next adventure begins.

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  • ACTIVITIES:
    
    • Sightseeing

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  • MEALS:
    
    • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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  • HOTEL:
    
    • Overnight train with soft sleeping bed

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  • ACTIVITIES:
    
    • Bike Cycling

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  • CYCLING DISTANCE:
    
    • 100 km

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  • MEALS:
    
    • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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  • HOTEL:
    
    • Bac Ha Lodge Retreat or similar

Cycling to Xin Man & Hoang Su Phi 🚴‍♂️🏔️

Today's ride takes us deep into some of the most remote regions of Northeast Vietnam, offering an unforgettable cycling experience.

We kick off the journey with a 10 km climb, ascending 400 meters on a newly sealed road before transitioning onto a 15 km stretch of unsealed, rugged terrain. This route leads us into untouched tribal areas, where the landscapes are as rich as the cultural diversity.

The challenge continues with a massive 1,000-meter descent into Xin Man, a hidden gem tucked away on the Vietnamese-Chinese border. Enveloped by wild mountains and dense forests, Xin Man is home to 15 ethnic communities, including the Nung, Flower H’Mong, Tay, La Chi, Kinh, and Hoa.

Following lunch, we cross the Cahy River, embarking on 40 km of peaceful cycling along a quiet road. As we approach Hoang Su Phi, the terrain features a gentle incline, with occasional rough patches. However, the breathtaking river views make every pedal stroke worth the effort.

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  • ACTIVITIES:
    
    • Bike Cycling
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  • ACTIVITIES:
    • 78 km

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  • MEALS:
    
    • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

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  • HOTEL:
    
    • Hoang Su Phi Lodge or similar

Cycling Through Hoang Su Phi & The Old Silk Road 🚴‍♂️🏔️

Hoang Su Phi remains one of Vietnam’s most untouched regions, where communities have lived in isolation from mainstream society until recent years. Sitting at an average elevation of 800 meters above sea level, the landscape is shaped by towering mountains, deep valleys, forested terrain, and winding streams, creating an environment of exceptional natural beauty and preserved traditions.

Today’s journey presents an exciting challenge as we cycle over the Heaven Gate 2 mountain pass, climbing 895 meters en route to Tan Quang. The pass rewards us with breathtaking, open-sky vistas, offering a true “top-of-the-world” experience.

In the afternoon, we descend past villages and rice and maize terraces, cultivated by the Red Dao and Tay tribes. As we ride, the air is filled with the aromatic scents of cardamom and star anise, adding to the sensory richness of the journey. Our path leads us to Tan Quang, tucked away in a peaceful valley.

For the final stretch of the day, we ease into a relaxing 46 km ride along the Lo River, cycling through pristine countryside towards Ha Giang, the tranquil capital of Ha Giang Province, located approximately 350 km (215 miles) northwest of Hanoi. This historic route is part of the Old Silk Road, a timeless pathway rich in history and culture.

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  • ACTIVITIES:
    
    • Bike Cycling

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  • CYCLING DISTANCE:
    
    • 105 km

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  • MEALS:
    
    • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

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  • HOTEL:
    
    • Yen Bien Luxury Hotel or similar

Rest Day in Ha Giang – A Town of History & Culture 🌿🏛️

Nestled on the banks of the Lo River, just below its confluence with the Mien River, Ha Giang is surrounded by the Mo Neo and Cam Mountains, creating a stunning natural setting. This region is home to diverse ethnic communities, including the Tay, Nung, Red Dao, and White H’Mong, each contributing to its rich cultural heritage.

Today is a well-earned rest day, offering time to unwind after yesterday’s exertions. Ha Giang boasts an ancient history dating back to the Bronze Age, with local tribal communities still practicing the age-old tradition of bronze drum making 🥁—a craft that has endured for centuries.

Throughout its past, Ha Giang has been a site of minority uprisings against the French during colonial times, and more recently, the town suffered significant damage during the Vietnam-China war of 1979, leading to modern reconstruction. Today, Ha Giang stands as a market center, vital to the region's economy. The town is renowned for its tea production, with surrounding areas cultivating varieties such as green, yellow, black, scented, and the prized Shan Tuyet tea 🍵.

As we prepare to continue toward the border regions, we will arrange our tourist permits here before heading into the next stage of our journey.

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  • ACTIVITIES:
    
    • Rest

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  • MEALS:
    
    • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

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  • HOTEL:
    
    • Yen Bien Luxury Hotel or similar

Cycling to Quan Ba via Heaven Gate 1 🚴‍♂️🏔️

We set off this morning, leaving town behind as we cycle 25 km along relatively flat roads, passing through terraced rice fields and minority villages. The journey then takes us into the vast limestone mountain range, where towering perpendicular rock walls create a dramatic backdrop.

The next 25 km winds through the mountains, leading to a challenging 800-meter ascent up the mountain pass known as Heaven Gate 1. As we ride through villages perched along the slopes—sometimes blanketed in mist—we’re met with warm greetings from the local communities.

At the summit, breathtaking panoramas unfold, including the famous Tam Son valley, home to the picturesque Twin Hills. Beyond the valley, we spot our destination: Quan Ba, nestled in a stunning natural setting.

The final 15 km is a rewarding downhill ride into Quan Ba, easing us into the next stage of our adventure.

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  • ACTIVITIES:
    
    • Bike Cycling

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  • CYCLING DISTANCE:
    
    • 50 km

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  • MEALS:
    
    • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

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  • HOTEL:
    
    • Toong Homestay or similar

Cycling to Yen Minh – A Journey Through Stunning Limestone Landscapes 🚴‍♂️🏔️

Today, we take our time to fully absorb the breathtaking scenery, as the rocky limestone karst terrain unfolds in a spectacular display. Along the way, there are countless photo opportunities, making this one of the most visually striking sections of our journey.

We begin with a steady uphill climb for the first few kilometers, followed by a 10 km descent, offering a thrilling ride through the rugged landscape. The next 10 km consists of relatively flat terrain, allowing us to recover and take in the surroundings before tackling a challenging series of ascents and descents, reaching an altitude of 1,025 meters. Finally, we descend for 15 km into Yen Minh, cruising down into the valley.

During our ride, we pass by traditional homes of local hill tribes, offering a glimpse into their way of life. The communities in this area belong to Chinese ethnic groups, adding a unique cultural perspective to our journey.

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  • ACTIVITIES:
    
    • Bike Cycling

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  • CYCLING DISTANCE:
    
    • 53 km

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  • MEALS:
    
    • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

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  • HOTEL:
    
    • Misty Valley Ngọc Cường or similar

Cycling Through Dong Van Plateau & Ma Pi Leng Pass 🚴‍♂️🏔️

Today’s ride takes us along semi-surfaced quiet roads, leading into the heart of a spectacular natural wonder—Dong Van Plateau, a registered UNESCO Global Geopark. With 80% of its terrain covered in rock, this ancient landscape is believed to contain fossils dating back 400–600 million years.

Nestled within the valley of this Rock Plateau is the isolated town of Dong Van, situated close to the Chinese border. Encircled by mountain forests and vibrant orchids, Dong Van is home to diverse ethnic communities, including the Chinese Hoa, H’Mong, Tay, and Kinh peoples, with traditional houses built in Chinese architectural style.

Our ride continues along a modest road from Dong Van to Meo Vac, hugging the edge of a vast gorge with spectacular views. This winding and undulating path follows the Nho Que River, offering breathtaking sights throughout the journey.

At Ma Pi Leng Pass, we ascend to an altitude of 1,500 meters, where we gaze down into the valley below, taking in one of the most awe-inspiring panoramas in Northern Vietnam.

Our day concludes in the small town of Meo Vac, where we settle in for the night. The communities here have long preserved their unique tribal traditions, largely untouched by outside influences. Until recently, reaching Meo Vac was nearly impossible due to the lack of proper roads, but recent construction has finally made this hidden gem more accessible.

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  • ACTIVITIES:
    
    • Bike Cycling
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  • CYCLING DISTANCE:
    • 70 km

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  • MEALS:
    
    • Breakfast

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  • HOTEL:
    
    • Meo Vac H’mong Ecolodge or similar

Cycling to Bao Lac – A Journey Through Limestone Peaks & Vibrant Tribal Culture 🚴‍♂️🏔️

Start the day by exploring the daily market in Meo Vac, bustling with activity as White Hmong, Tay, and Lo Lo hill tribes gather to trade. Women dressed in colorful traditional clothing walk into town, carrying bamboo woven baskets filled with fresh corn and vegetables, offering a glimpse into their rich cultural heritage.

We then embark on a scenic mountain ride along a remote road toward Bao Lac. The journey begins with a 5 km uphill climb 🚵‍♂️, followed by a thrilling 20 km descent, where limestone peaks and deep valleys shape the terrain. Afterward, we cruise along a fairly flat 10 km stretch, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes—towering rock formations, caves, and hillsides dotted with crops and dwellings seemingly clinging to the slopes.

A gentle 250-meter ascent brings us to the final 30 km descent along flat terrain, leading us into Bao Lac. Along the way, we encounter local minority communities, dressed in their vibrant tribal costumes, making for an unforgettable cultural experience.

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  • ACTIVITIES:
    
    • Bike Cycling

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  • CYCLING DISTANCE:
    
    • 74 km

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  • MEALS:
    
    • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

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  • HOTEL:
    
    • Sunny Bao Lac Homestay or similar

Cycling to Nguyen Binh – A Ride Through Mountain Valleys & Tin-Mining Towns 🚴‍♂️⛰️

Even in this remote mountain town, the morning market is bustling with activity as locals gather to trade fresh produce and handmade goods.

We set off for a full day of cycling, navigating challenging terrain along quiet, well-surfaced roads. The route takes us through a picturesque valley, where we ride toward the tin-mining town of Tinh Tuc before continuing on to Nguyen Binh.

The ride presents its fair share of difficulties, but the unparalleled beauty of the landscape—majestic peaks, winding roads, and untouched wilderness—makes every climb worthwhile.

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  • ACTIVITIES:
    
    • Biking Cycling
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  • CYCLING DISTANCE:
    • 88 km

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  • MEALS:
    
    • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner set-box on the train

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  • HOTEL:
    
    • Luxury hotel or similar

Returning to Hanoi – A Relaxing End to the Journey 🚐🏙️

This morning, we pack up our bikes and embark on a comfortable transfer back to Hanoi. After days of cycling through remote mountains, today offers a chance to unwind and reflect on our incredible journey.

Upon arrival, the lively pace of Hanoi welcomes us once more. Whether you choose to explore the bustling streets 🏮, relax in a cozy café ☕, or simply take in the vibrant energy of the city, it’s a perfect way to ease back into urban life after the adventure.

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  • ACTIVITIES:
    
    • Bike Cycling

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  • CYCLING DISTANCE:
    
    • 65 km

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  • MEALS:
    
    • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

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  • HOTEL:
    
    • JM Marvel Hotel or similar

Cruising Through Halong Bay – A Day of Scenic Beauty & Relaxation 🚢🌊

After breakfast, we depart for a three-hour transfer to Halong Bay 🚐. Upon arrival at Halong Port, the Aqua of the Sea cruise crew warmly welcomes us aboard.

⏰ Schedule:

12:45 PM: Check-in & registration 📝

1:00 PM: Enjoy a delicious lunch on board 🍽️

1:30 PM: Set off on a spectacular cruise, passing by Dinh Huong Island, Ga Choi Island, Dog Island, and Sail Island 🏝️

Visit the stunning Sung Sot Cave 🏔️

Take a refreshing swim at Titov Beach 🏊‍♂️

5:30 PM: Sip on Vietnamese wine while watching the sunset over the bay 🍷🌅

7:30 PM: Delight in a dinner on board, followed by a relaxing evening at leisure 🌙✨

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  • ACTIVITIES:
    
    • Cruising

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  • MEALS:
    
    • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

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  • HOTEL:
    
    • Overnight on the Cruise

Morning Cruise in Halong Bay – A Tranquil & Scenic Farewell 🚢🌅

For those up early, the morning view of Halong Bay is nothing short of mesmerizing. Sitting on the upper deck, we take in the breathtaking sight of rocky islands rising from crystal-clear waters. The stillness of the bay creates a peaceful, almost eerie atmosphere, where the only sounds are birds singing, cicadas chirping ashore, and the gentle lapping of waves against the boat—a perfect harmony to accompany the fresh sea breeze.

⏰ Schedule:

7:00 AM: Enjoy a delicious breakfast while soaking in the tranquil surroundings 🍽️

7:30 AM: Embark on a morning cruise, passing by Man’s Head Island, Tortoise Island, and exploring Luon Cave by small bamboo boat 🚣‍♂️

Cruise through the stunning Bai Tu Long Bay, a lesser-explored yet equally breathtaking area 🏝️

10:00 AM: Pack luggage & check-out in preparation for departure 🧳

10:30 AM: Relish a farewell lunch on board 🍽️

11:45 AM: Arrive at Halong Wharf and transfer back to Hanoi 🏙️

Get settled in your hotel and enjoy a farewell dinner, marking the end of an unforgettable adventure 🎉✨

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  • ACTIVITIES:
    
    • Explore

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  • MEALS:
    
    • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Departure & Farewell ✈️🌏

Enjoy a leisurely morning at your own pace, taking in your final moments in Vietnam. Whether you choose to relax or explore a bit more, this is your time to unwind before departure.

At the designated time, we will transfer to the airport for your flight home, marking the end of an incredible journey.

Wishing you safe travels and wonderful memories from this adventure! 🌟✨

🚴 Activities: Free time before departure 🍽️ Meals: Based on your schedule ✈️ Departure: Transfer to the airport

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  • ACTIVITIES:
    
    • Enjoy freetime, buy souvenirs.

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  • MEALS:
    
    • Based on your schedule

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  • END OF TOUR
    
    • No overnight stay