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SOUTH EAST ASIA CYCLING HANOI TO LUANG PRABANG
- Overview
- Before You Ride
- Itinerary
- Inclusions & Detail
- More Information
Overview
Trip Profile: Stunning Vietnam to Luang Prabang Cycling Journey 🚴♂️🌄
Embark on an unforgettable cycling adventure with Vietnam Adventure Cycling from the vibrant capital of Hanoi, Vietnam 🇻🇳 to the enchanting UNESCO World Heritage town of Luang Prabang, northern Laos
Get ready to conquer gently rolling hills as you pedal through breathtaking landscapes — from the emerald terraces and towering peaks of Sapa’s majestic mountains 🏔️, to the lush and vibrant Red River Delta’s endless rice paddies 🌾 near Hanoi. Explore the historic battlegrounds of Dien Bien Phu ⚔️, steeped in fascinating history and culture.
The scenery constantly transforms as you cycle through remote ethnic minority villages, where warm and welcoming locals greet you with genuine smiles — many unaccustomed to visitors 🚶♀️🏘️. Cross the quiet, less-traveled Tay Trang border 🛂, where Laos visas are now easily obtainable upon arrival.
From here, enjoy a mostly downhill ride along the peaceful Nam Ou River 🌊, soaking in the stunning limestone cliffs and tranquil rural life. This is your chance to truly connect with the countryside, where everyday moments unfold — fishermen casting nets, monks in saffron robes, farmers tending their fields.
Plus, this meaningful journey supports a local charity recommended by Vietnam Adventure Cycling, giving back to the communities that make this route so special 🤝❤️.
Experience the perfect blend of adventure, culture, and breathtaking nature on this epic ride through the heart of Indochina.
Trip Details
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- DESTINATION:
- Vietnam, Laos
- DESTINATION:
- GROUP SIZE:
- 2 - 25 People
- GROUP SIZE:
- TOTAL DISTANCE:
- 800km / 10 cycling days
- TOTAL DISTANCE:
- ACTIVITIES:
- Ride/Cruise/Walk
- ACTIVITIES:
- ACCOMODATION:
- 3-4 stars hotels, overnight cruise & train
- ACCOMODATION:
- SCENERY:
- Rural, rivers & villages
- SCENERY:
Before You Ride
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Itinerary
DAY 1: HANOI - WELCOME TO VIETNAM
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Welcome & Arrival in Hanoi ✈️🏨
Upon arrival, the Vietnam Adventure Cycling Team will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your cozy hotel right in the heart of Hanoi’s vibrant Old Quarter. Enjoy some free time to unwind and explore the charming streets on your own.
Later in the afternoon, join us for a welcome dinner to kick off the adventure. Before that, there will be a quick bike fitting session, followed by a detailed briefing from your cycling guide covering everything you need to know for the trip ahead.
Overnight in Hanoi.
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Day 2 : HANOI - MU CANG CHAI
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Nghia Lo Departure & Ride to Mu Cang Chai 🚴♂️🏞️
Our team will meet you at the hotel before transferring about 3 hours to Nghia Lo, where we’ll enjoy a traditional local lunch. From here, the cycling adventure begins, heading north towards Laos. The route is a beautiful mix of hills and rolling mountains, offering breathtaking, panoramic views at every turn.
We pedal along smooth, wide roads, passing lush green rice fields and exchanging smiles with friendly locals. The day’s ride ends at a charming hotel in Mu Cang Chai, where you can relax and enjoy dinner after a rewarding day on the bike.
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Day 3: MU CANG CHAI - LAO CAI
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Terraced Rice Fields & Ride to Lao Cai 🚴♂️🌾
Today, the stunning beauty of the terraced rice fields and the warm smiles of the local people will captivate you. We start cycling from the hotel along smooth roads, taking a leisurely pace to fully soak in the breathtaking natural scenery.
After a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, we board the bus for a transfer to Lao Cai, the bustling border town with China. The day ends with dinner and a restful overnight stay in Lao Cai.
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Day 4: LAO CAI - SAPA
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Cycling to Sapa & Border Exploration 🚴♂️🏞️
Today's ride begins with cycling around the lively border town, offering a unique glimpse into the daily interactions and vibrant activities along the Vietnam-China frontier. You’ll witness the bustling markets, local traders, and the colorful mix of cultures that thrive in this border area. After soaking in the atmosphere, the route leads you onto a scenic 40 km uphill ride toward Sapa.
Known as the Queen of Mountains, Sapa is perched in a breathtaking valley surrounded by towering peaks. The town was established as a French hill station in 1922, and its charming colonial architecture still reflects this heritage. Along the way, you’ll pass terraced rice fields, traditional villages, and enjoy sweeping views of the majestic Hoang Lien Son mountain range.
After a rewarding day of cycling and exploration, you’ll arrive in Sapa to relax and enjoy a well-deserved rest at your comfortable hotel.
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DAY 5: SAPA -FREEDAY
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Free to Explore Sapa & Its Ethnic Cultures 🚶♂️🏞️
Discover Sapa at your own pace, a vibrant market town where several ethnic minority groups such as Hmong, Dao (Yao), Giáy, Xa Pho, and Tay live and thrive. Explore the colorful markets, traditional villages, and rich cultural heritage that make this area truly unique.
Take time to wander through the bustling streets, meet local artisans, and sample traditional cuisine. The surrounding terraced rice fields and misty mountains provide a breathtaking backdrop for your day of leisure and discovery.
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Day 6: SAPA - LAI CHAU
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Mountain Challenge to Tram Ton Pass – A Ride to the Clouds & Culture ☕🚴
Awaken your senses for an exhilarating day as we leave behind the comfort of the hotel and pedal into the crisp highland air. Today’s adventure begins with a 15 km uphill ride toward the legendary Heaven Gate (Tram Ton Pass)—the highest mountain pass in Vietnam. It’s a steady climb, but the reward is extraordinary: a panoramic vista over the Hoang Lien Son range, where clouds swirl like rivers through jagged peaks. Take a moment here to rest and reflect, cradling a warm cup of Vietnamese coffee while gazing across the sky-high landscape ☁️☕.
From there, gravity becomes your friend as you descend 24 km along a winding road to Binh Luu, feeling the wind rush past and the thrill of speed on your skin. Here, a hearty local lunch awaits—simple mountain fare, made with care.
The afternoon continues with a gentle ride over rolling hills, weaving through lush valleys and quiet tribal villages. Expect to encounter scenes of everyday life—buffalo grazing, children waving, terraced rice paddies cascading down green hillsides. The journey offers a rare glimpse into the soul of the highlands before we arrive in Lai Chau, where we’ll settle in for the night.
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DAY 7: LAI CHAU-MUONG LAY
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Cycling to Muong Lay – Into the Heart of the Highlands 🚴♀️⛰️
Get ready for one of the most intense rides of the journey as we set out from the hotel and head deep into the northern mountains toward Muong Lay. This is not a route for the faint of heart—it’s a grueling mix of steep climbs, thrilling tarmac descents, and rugged terrain, where gravel and hardened clay roads test both your legs and spirit.
But with every drop of sweat, you’re rewarded with some of the most dramatic landscapes in the region—winding mountain passes, mist-laced valleys, and far-off villages nestled like hidden gems in the hills. This ride offers a raw, unfiltered experience of Vietnam’s remote north, where nature reigns and beauty is found in every turn of the road.
As the day draws to a close, you’ll roll into the tranquil riverside town of Muong Lay, a peaceful place to rest your legs and take in the stillness of the highlands after a long day on the saddle.
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DAY 8: MUONG LAY- DIEN BIEN PHU
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Final Ride to Dien Bien Phu – A Journey Through History and Hidden Valleys 🚴♂️🌄
Today marks the last cycling day in Vietnam, and it promises to be a memorable one. Departing from the hotel, you’ll enjoy a long yet gentle ride, winding through a breathtaking landscape of lush valleys and untouched, remote villages. The route is smooth for much of the way—perfect for soaking in the scenery—but don’t be fooled: the final stretch will push your limits with a challenging ascent into Dien Bien Phu.
We’ll pause midday for a picnic lunch amidst nature, surrounded by mountain silence and the occasional hum of village life. Then, with renewed energy, continue the journey onward, crossing through lands rich in both beauty and history.
As you approach Dien Bien Phu, the town slowly rises out of the hills—its name forever etched in Vietnam’s past. After a full day of cycling, we’ll check into the hotel where you can rest, reflect, and celebrate completing this epic ride across northern Vietnam.
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DAY 9: DIEN BIEN PHU - CROSSING BORDER - MUANG KHAU
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Into Laos – Crossing Borders & Tracing History 🇻🇳➡️🇱🇦🚴♂️
We begin the day early with a visit to the historic battlefields of Dien Bien Phu, where Vietnam’s fight for independence from French colonial forces reached its decisive climax. This valley, once echoing with the sounds of war, now stands as a quiet monument to resilience and victory—an essential stop before we cross into new terrain.
After paying tribute to this iconic site, we set off on our 65 km ride toward Muang Khua, crossing the remote Tay Trang border into northeastern Laos. Be sure to have your Laos visa ready—it can be arranged in advance or obtained on arrival at the border.
This corner of Laos is one of the country’s least populated and most peaceful regions. The road winds through untamed landscapes and serene riverside paths, tracing the Nam Ou River as we cycle deeper into Laos. Though the route is demanding, the warmth of the locals and breathtaking views offer constant encouragement and unexpected joy.
We’ll arrive in the tranquil riverside town of Muang Khua by evening—your first taste of Lao life, quiet and welcoming, nestled in a bend of the river.
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DAY 10: MUANG KHAU - OXDOMXAI
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Riding the River Road to Oudomxai – Through Jungle Paths & Past Echoes of War 🚴♂️🌿
After breakfast in the peaceful town of Muang Khua, we set off for an 80 km ride along the Nam Ou River, following its winding course deeper into the heart of northern Laos. The day’s ride takes us through a shifting landscape of dense jungle, quiet rice paddies, and forested hills, offering moments of calm and beauty at every turn.
As we cycle onward, the route gradually leads us out of the wilderness and into the busy town of Oudomxai, a dynamic hub nestled at the crossroads of National Roads 1, 2, and 4. Once a strategic base for Chinese military support during the Second Indochina War, Oudomxai has since grown into a vital Laos-China trade center, blending traditional Lao life with modern commerce and cultural fusion.
You'll notice the pace of life picking up here—street vendors, local shops, and traces of old-world charm all wrapped in the hum of a growing town. After a long day in the saddle, settle in and unwind at your hotel for the night.
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DAY 11: OXDOMXAI - PAKMONG
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Into the Mountains – Cycling Through Hmong Heartlands to Pak Mong 🚴♀️⛰️
Today’s journey takes you high into the Laotian mountains, where the road climbs through dense forests and into the remote villages of the Hmong people—one of Laos’ most resilient and culturally rich ethnic groups. As we ascend, the air cools and the views expand, revealing valleys tucked between emerald peaks and simple homes perched on the mountainside.
Along the way, Vietnam Adventure Cycling Tour encourages a small act of kindness—a chance to offer support to Hmong families living in these remote areas. Whether it’s sharing school supplies, warm clothes, or just a smile, your presence here brings connection as well as adventure 🤝🎒.
After reaching the summit, enjoy a thrilling descent through rolling hills, where the landscape constantly shifts—rice terraces, misty forests, and traditional stilt houses all unfold before your wheels. In the afternoon, you’ll pedal past small villages where curious children run out to greet you, their laughter echoing along the road.
The day ends in the quiet town of Pak Mong, nestled at the base of the mountains, where a warm meal and soft bed await.
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DAY 12: PAK MONG - LUANG PRABANG
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Final Day – Cycling & Cruising into the Heart of Luang Prabang 🚴♂️🚤🛕
Our last day on the road is a perfect blend of adventure and serenity, as we begin with a 50 km ride along the Nam Ou River, passing peaceful villages and emerald rice fields. The route offers a final taste of rural life in Laos—smiling farmers, waving children, and the soft rhythm of riverside life.
By late morning, we’ll arrive at the ferry point, where bikes give way to boats. After enjoying a local lunch by the riverbank, we set off on a tranquil cruise to the sacred Pak Ou Caves, famed for their thousands of Buddha statues nestled into limestone cliffs.
From the caves, we continue our journey downstream, gently gliding along the Mekong River toward our final destination: Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Southeast Asia’s most enchanting towns. Framed by mountains and rich with spiritual and cultural charm, it’s the perfect place to end this unforgettable cycling journey.
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Inclusions & Detail
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YOUR BIKE
YOUR BIKE
You’ll ride on a Trek Brand mountain bike, the Marlin 5 that’s been designed to be both comfortable and durable. This bike is a trail-worthy daily rider that’s perfectly suited for everyday adventures, on and off the trail. We have a full range of bike sizes available for you to choose from, and the helmet is also included in your tour.
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E-BIKE AVAILABLE
E-BIKE AVAILABLE
You’ll ride on a Trek Brand mountain bike, the Marlin 5 that’s been designed to be both comfortable and durable. This bike is a trail-worthy daily rider that’s perfectly suited for everyday adventures, on and off the trail. We have a full range of bike sizes available for you to choose from, and the helmet is also included in your tour.
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YOUR GUIDE
YOUR GUIDE
Our cycling adventures are led by passionate, English-speaking guides who do more than just show the way — they ride with heart. Energetic, friendly, and deeply knowledgeable, each guide is trained in first aid and skilled in bike maintenance to ensure your journey runs smoothly. But beyond the road, they’re also cultural ambassadors — bridging connections between you and the local communities, picking up fresh fruit for roadside snacks, and making sure everyone feels supported and safe. With their help, every ride becomes more than a route — it becomes a shared story. ✨🚲
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TRACK TYPE
TRACK TYPE
This cycling route winds through mostly rural and coastal landscapes, with gentle rolling hills and undulating terrain that keep the ride engaging and scenic. You'll follow a mix of smooth asphalt roads, rustic dirt paths that cut through golden rice fields, and quiet concrete lanes tracing the curves of rivers and sleepy villages. Though some stretches may be a little sandy or narrow, they offer peaceful, low-traffic rides—perfect for soaking in the charm of the countryside and the rhythm of local life.
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SCENERY & LANDSCAPE
SCENERY & LANDSCAPE
From the vibrant plains of the Red River Delta to the misty mountain terraces of Sapa, this journey immerses you in the raw, breathtaking landscapes of northern Vietnam and Laos. Pedal through quiet ethnic villages where warm smiles greet you, then cross into Laos for a serene ride along the Nam Ou River. Towering limestone cliffs, tranquil countryside scenes, and the gentle rhythm of daily life—fishermen casting nets, monks in saffron robes, and farmers in the fields—make every kilometer a moving portrait of Indochina’s soul. 🌄🌿
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SUPPORT VAN
SUPPORT VAN
For groups of fewer than 6 passengers, a 16-seat bus will be provided, equipped with A/C and operated by experienced driver.
For groups of fewer than 12, either a 25-seat bus or two 16-seat buses will be provided, equipped with A/C and operated by experienced drivers.
For groups of up to 24, a 25-seat bus will be provided along with a luggage van, equipped with A/C and operated by experienced driver.
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YOUR MEALS
YOUR MEALS
All meals are included as outlined in your itinerary. You’ll enjoy a variety of delicious local dishes, with a focus on noodles, rice, curries, and soups—offering a true taste of the region.
Traveling with us means not just seeing South East Asia, but also savoring their vibrant culinary scenes. From street food to cozy local restaurants, you'll have plenty of chances to explore regional flavors. Your guide will be happy to take you to excellent dining spots throughout your journey.
If you have any dietary preferences or restrictions—such as vegetarian, vegan, or specific food allergies—please let us know in advance. We’ll make sure the restaurants and hotels you're visiting are informed and prepared to accommodate your needs.
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WATER & SNACK
WATER & SNACK
To keep you energized and refreshed throughout the tour, we provide complimentary cold water, local snacks, and fresh fruit at our occasional break stops—helping you stay hydrated and well-nourished as you explore.
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OTHER INCLUSION
OTHER INCLUSION
Airport pick up & drop off.
All admission fees at attractions, temples and activities mentioned in the itinerary.
Speed boat, boat & ferry.
Community Support.
First aid kits per tour guide.
Tools & spare parts for bike.
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OUR PACE
OUR PACE
Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, we’re dedicated to making your cycling experience exceptional! Ride at your own pace, starting from 10 km per hour, and push your limits as far as you desire. E-Bike option is also available.
Pause anytime for that perfect photo opportunity as we travel along the epic breath-taking scenery of South East Asia.
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OUR IMPACT
OUR IMPACT
We design and operate our trips with sustainability at the heart of everything we do—minimizing environmental impact while creating meaningful, positive contributions to the local communities and cultures we engage with.
Our mission goes beyond offering unforgettable travel experiences. We are committed to building a responsible adventure-travel model that uplifts the people and places we visit. Whether it’s through our educational tours, support for nature reserves and wildlife sanctuaries, or sourcing fresh produce directly from local farms, we strive to ensure that every journey benefits the region and its residents.
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NOT INCLUDED
NOT INCLUDED
Travel insurance – Ensure you have coverage for your trip.
Personal expenses – Shopping, souvenirs, and any additional costs.
Tips – Recommended $5 per day per person for guides and staff.
Alcoholic drinks – Beverages outside of provided meals.
Flight tickets – To/from Vietnam are not part of the package.
Visas – Entry permits for Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, or any required travel documentation.
Additional services – Anything not explicitly mentioned in the itinerary.
More Information
Arrival Details
After clearing immigration and collecting your luggage, you'll be warmly greeted in the arrivals hall by our guide, easily recognizable by the Vietnam Adventure Cycling logo and a sign bearing your name.
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PICK UP LOCATION: |
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MEETING TIME: |
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Departure Details
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DROP-OFF LOCATION: |
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TRIP MAP
SOUTH EAST ASIA CYCLING FROM HANOI TO VIENTIANE FOR 18 DAYS & 17 NIGHTS
$3,330 /person
