If you dream of an unforgettable journey through Vietnam’s most spectacular landscapes, this 18+ day motorbike route is the perfect adventure. Starting and ending in Hanoi, the loop takes you across ancient valleys, terraced rice fields, breathtaking passes, highland cultures, historical battlefields, and finally the coast of Cát Bà Island.
Traveling with Pearl Motorbikes ensures you have a reliable bike, safety gear, and full support—so you can focus on enjoying every twist and turn of Northern Vietnam.
Day-by-Day Journey
Day 1–2: Hanoi → Ninh Bình
Your adventure begins on the peaceful backroads heading to Ninh Bình. Famous for its limestone mountains and tranquil rivers, this region is often called “Halong Bay on land.” Explore Trang An boat tours, Tam Cốc rice paddies, and the ancient capital Hoa Lư.
Day 3–4: Ninh Bình → Pù Luông Nature Reserve
Ride deeper into nature as you reach Pù Luông, a paradise of terraced fields, bamboo forests, and ethnic Thai villages. Stay in eco-lodges overlooking the valley and enjoy cool mountain breeze.
Day 5: Pù Luông → Mai Châu
A short and comfortable mountain ride brings you to Mai Châu, where peaceful local life, stilt houses, and cycling paths make it a relaxing stop.
Day 6–7: Mai Châu → Mộc Châu
Enter a plateau of tea hills, dairies, forests, and flower valleys. Mộc Châu offers beautiful scenery and smooth riding roads perfect for photography.
Day 8–9: Mộc Châu → Điện Biên Phủ
A long but rewarding ride toward Vietnam’s northwest frontier. Visit historical landmarks from the 1954 battle and enjoy quiet mountain views far from tourist crowds.
Day 10–11: Điện Biên Phủ → Sa Pa
Climb into the high mountains of Sa Pa, home to terraced rice fields and cloud-hugging peaks. Explore ethnic minority villages, Fansipan cable car, and vibrant markets.
Day 12: Sa Pa → Mù Căng Chải
One of Vietnam’s most famous rice-terrace regions. Ride through Khau Pha Pass and admire golden or green terraces depending on the season.
Day 13–15: Mù Căng Chải → Hà Giang Loop
The highlight of the entire journey. The Hà Giang Loop is an iconic ride with deep valleys, rocky mountains, sky-high passes, and ethnic minority culture. Must-see spots include Đồng Văn, Lũng Cú flagpole, and Ma Pi Leng Pass.
Day 16: Hà Giang → Ba Bể Lake
Descend into lush forests and emerald lakes. Ba Bể is perfect for slow travel—boat trips, kayaking, and relaxing by the water.
Day 17: Ba Bể → Cao Bằng
A scenic ride through limestone landscapes. From here, many travelers visit Bản Giốc Waterfall, one of the most magnificent waterfalls in Southeast Asia.
Day 18: Cao Bằng → Lạng Sơn
Continue toward the border region of Lạng Sơn, known for caves, markets, local cuisine, and beautiful mountain roads.
Day 19–20: Lạng Sơn → Cát Bà Island
Ride to Hải Phòng and take a ferry to Cát Bà. Enjoy beaches, seafood, and a relaxing cruise through Lan Hạ Bay—an ideal ending after weeks on the road.
Final Day: Cát Bà → Hanoi
Return to Hanoi with a full heart, incredible photos, and the satisfaction of completing one of the most beautiful motorbike routes in Asia.
Why Choose Pearl Motorbikes for This Trip?
High-quality motorbikes ideal for long-distance mountain travel
Free helmets, raincoats, straps, phone holders
24/7 support throughout the trip
Flexible rental duration
Expert route planning & local tips
Option for luggage storage in Hanoi