GRAND NORTH LOOP OF VIETNAM MOTORCYCLE TOURS

Introduction to the Vietnam Grand North Loop

The Grand North Loop of Vietnam Motorcycle Tours is the ultimate adventure for riders who want to experience the incredible diversity of Northern Vietnam. This unforgettable journey takes you through 15 provinces, following a fascinating mix of mountain roads, off-road tracks, scenic back roads, and quiet rural highways. Along the way, you’ll alternate between comfortable hotels and authentic homestays, enjoy both short and longer riding days, and experience the rich cultures of Vietnam’s ethnic minority communities. Every stage is carefully planned to help you make the most of your time while exploring the breathtaking landscapes and welcoming people of Northern Vietnam.

The complete Grand North Loop covers approximately 2,500 kilometres, averaging around 160 kilometres per day, or about five to six hours of riding. Our goal is never to rush from one destination to another. Instead, we ride at a relaxed pace, making frequent stops to admire spectacular scenery, take photographs, enjoy a cup of tea with local families, visit traditional villages, or simply stretch our legs and enjoy the peaceful countryside. These spontaneous breaks often become some of the most memorable moments of the journey.

Our Vietnam motorcycle tours are designed as relaxed adventures rather than endurance rides. We encourage every rider to travel at a comfortable pace, enjoy the scenery, and fully appreciate each destination. Although the daily distances are moderate, participants should have good physical fitness and basic motorcycle riding skills, as some sections include winding mountain roads and changing road conditions.

For riders with limited time or those who prefer a different itinerary, we also offer a 10-day Vietnam motorcycle tour that follows the route in reverse. This adventure explores the spectacular Northeast Vietnam, Ba Be Lake, Ban Gioc Waterfall, Ha Giang, Bac Ha, and Sapa before returning to Hanoi on the comfortable overnight train from Lao Cai. It is an excellent option for experiencing many of Northern Vietnam’s most iconic destinations within a shorter schedule.

More Vietnam Motorbike Tour Itineraries

Looking for more Vietnam motorbike tour itineraries? We offer a wide range of guided and self-guided motorcycle tours to suit different schedules, riding abilities, and travel interests. Whether you have just a day or several weeks, there’s a route that lets you discover the very best of Northern Vietnam and beyond.

• Northwest Vietnam (4 – 10 days)
• Northeast Vietnam (3 – 8 days)
• Scenic Ha Giang & Northeast (6 – 13 days)
• Central North (3 – 7 days)
• Ho Chi Minh Trail/Road (6 – 16 days)
• Short Rides (1 – 3 days)

Each itinerary showcases a different side of Vietnam, from spectacular mountain passes, remote ethnic minority villages, and winding back roads to historic routes, lush valleys, and breathtaking natural scenery. Whether you’re seeking challenging off-road adventures or relaxed scenic rides, we have a tour designed to match your experience level and travel goals.

Below is a video from one of our Grand North Loop Vietnam Motorcycle Tours. If you’d like to see more of our adventures, riding routes, and customer experiences, please check our YouTube channel, where you’ll find many more videos showcasing the beauty of motorcycling in Vietnam.

Vietnam Grand North Loop Motorbike Tour Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi – Mai Chau (~200 km/~6 hours)

Your Vietnam Grand North Loop Motorbike Tour begins in Hanoi, departing from the western side of the city to avoid the busy downtown traffic. Instead of navigating dozens of traffic lights through the city centre, we follow a quieter route with only a few intersections before joining Highway 6, making for a smoother and more enjoyable start to the adventure.

The ride follows the Red River towards Son Tay, before crossing Trung Ha Bridge and continuing on the modern road to Hoa Binh. As we leave the fertile Red River Delta, the scenery gradually transforms from vibrant rice fields and traditional farming villages into dramatic limestone karsts, rolling foothills, and peaceful countryside inhabited by the Muong ethnic people.

The road then climbs into the mountains, crossing a beautiful forested mountain pass with sweeping views before descending into the picturesque valley of Mai Chau. Surrounded by lush rice paddies and towering limestone mountains, this peaceful valley is home to the White Thai ethnic community. Tonight, we stay with local friends in a traditional Thai stilt house in Poom Coong Village, enjoying warm hospitality, delicious home-cooked food, and an authentic cultural experience.

Day 2: Mai Chau – Phu Yen (~140 km/~5 hours)

After breakfast, we leave Mai Chau and ride towards Moc Chau, a region famous for its green tea plantations, dairy farms, and spectacular mountain scenery. Soon we leave the main highway behind and turn onto the quieter Road 43, one of the hidden gems for motorcycling in Northern Vietnam.

The route winds through remote valleys and forested hills before reaching the impressive Da River Reservoir. After crossing the river by the historic Van Yen Ferry, we continue along a scenic secondary road featuring smooth curves, peaceful villages, and magnificent mountain landscapes. With very little traffic, this section offers some of the most enjoyable riding of the day.

By late afternoon, we arrive in Phu Yen, a quiet rural town surrounded by rice fields and mountains. After checking into a comfortable local guesthouse, you can relax and prepare for another exciting day of exploring the spectacular roads of Northern Vietnam.

Day 3: Phu Yen – Son La (~160 km/~6 hours)

Leaving Phu Yen, we continue along the quiet and scenic Road 37, one of the hidden highlights of Northern Vietnam motorcycle tours. With very little traffic, this road offers a relaxed ride through spectacular mountain landscapes and traditional villages, making it ideal for riders who enjoy peaceful countryside and authentic local culture.

The route passes through the homeland of the Black Thai ethnic people, whose lives revolve around the beautiful terraced rice fields that cover the valleys and hillsides. As we wind through village after village, you’ll see farmers working in the fields, traditional wooden stilt houses, and everyday rural life unfolding beside the road. There are plenty of opportunities to stop for photographs and experience the genuine hospitality of the local communities.

In the afternoon, the landscape gradually changes as we climb through rolling hills towards the cool Son La Plateau, an area well known for its fertile farmland and extensive sugar cane plantations. We arrive in Son La by late afternoon and spend the night in a comfortable hotel, ready for another unforgettable day of riding through the mountains.

Day 4: Son La – Than Uyen (~200 km/~7 hours)

Today’s ride is one of the most scenic sections of the Vietnam Grand North Loop. Departing Son La, we head northwest across a series of spectacular mountain passes and valleys where the Black Thai people continue their traditional agricultural lifestyle.

Along the way, you’ll witness everyday scenes of rural Vietnam: children walking to school, farmers guiding buffalo through rice paddies, women planting young rice seedlings, and local families working together in the fields. These encounters provide a fascinating glimpse into life in Vietnam’s remote mountain communities.

One of the day’s major highlights is crossing the legendary Pha Din Pass, one of the most famous mountain passes in Vietnam. The road climbs steeply through breathtaking scenery before reaching the summit, where panoramic views stretch across endless mountain ranges. The descent is equally spectacular, following a well-paved but steep road with countless sweeping bends.

After descending the pass, we continue towards Than Uyen along a quieter mountain route that becomes increasingly wild and rugged. Between Hanoi and Sapa lies the magnificent Mu Cang Chai mountain range, one of the highest massifs in Northern Vietnam after Fansipan. From several viewpoints along today’s route, you’ll enjoy some of the most breathtaking panoramas in Northern Vietnam, with endless mountain ridges, deep valleys, and terraced rice fields stretching to the horizon.

Day 5: Than Uyen – Sapa (~120 km/~5 hours)

Begin the morning with a leisurely walk around Than Uyen, a peaceful mountain town surrounded by beautiful valleys and home to the Flower H’mong and Dao (Dzao) ethnic communities. This is a wonderful opportunity to experience local life, admire traditional clothing, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere before setting off on another memorable day of riding.

Leaving Than Uyen, we head towards the famous mountain town of Sapa. The first section follows an easy and scenic route through quiet countryside, while the final stretch climbs a spectacular mountain road with smooth asphalt and sweeping bends. Surrounded by lush forests, terraced rice fields, and towering peaks, this is one of the most enjoyable rides of the Vietnam Grand North Loop.

As you approach Sapa, breathtaking views of the Hoang Lien Son Mountains begin to unfold. The combination of cool mountain air, winding roads, and dramatic scenery makes today’s ride one of the highlights of any Northern Vietnam motorcycle tour. Overnight in Sapa, where you can relax, explore the town, or enjoy its lively cafés and local markets.

Day 6: Sapa – Bac Ha (~90 km/~4 hours)

Today’s ride begins with a spectacular descent from Sapa to Lao Cai, covering approximately 34 kilometres of winding mountain roads with magnificent views across valleys, rice terraces, and forested hills. From Lao Cai, we continue on another scenic route for about 70 kilometres to the colourful mountain town of Bac Ha, renowned for its vibrant ethnic cultures and beautiful landscapes.

After arriving in Bac Ha, we check into our hotel and enjoy a relaxing lunch before setting out on an afternoon trek to Lung Phinh Village. This peaceful walk offers a closer look at the daily lives of the local ethnic communities, traditional homes, and the surrounding countryside. It’s an excellent opportunity to experience the authentic culture that makes Bac Ha one of the most fascinating destinations in Northern Vietnam.

We spend the night in Bac Ha, preparing for another exciting day of riding through Vietnam’s spectacular northern mountains.

Day 7: Bac Ha – Xin Man (~50 km/~3 hours)

Leaving Bac Ha, we follow quiet mountain roads and narrow rural tracks that wind through some of the most remote landscapes in Northern Vietnam. With fewer kilometres to cover, there is plenty of time to stop, take photographs, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

The region is home to the colourful Flower H’Mong people, whose vibrant traditional clothing creates a striking contrast against the green mountains and rugged countryside. Along the route, you’ll see ancient footpaths disappearing into the hills, remote villages, and spectacular valleys that few visitors ever experience. This is one of the hidden highlights of the Vietnam Grand North Loop, offering an authentic glimpse into life in Vietnam’s border region.

If the schedule coincides with Saturday, we visit the famous Can Cau Market, located in a dramatic mountain basin just a few kilometres from the Chinese border. This lively ethnic market is where several minority groups from both sides of the border gather to trade livestock, textiles, agricultural products, and handicrafts. The colourful atmosphere, traditional costumes, and genuine local interactions make Can Cau Market one of the most memorable cultural experiences in Northern Vietnam. We continue to Xin Man, where we stay overnight.

Day 8: Xin Man – Ha Giang (~140 km/~6 hours)

Leaving Xin Man, we ride along peaceful mountain roads through some of the most spectacular scenery in Ha Giang Province. The route follows sections of the beautiful Lo River, offering a relaxing ride through lush valleys, forested mountains, and traditional villages. With light traffic and endless panoramic views, today’s journey is one of the most enjoyable riding days of the tour.

Before entering the border region, we arrange the required Ha Giang travel permit, which is necessary for visiting several frontier districts close to the Chinese border. Once the permit is secured, we continue deeper into the homeland of Vietnam’s diverse ethnic minority communities, where dramatic limestone mountains and remote villages create an unforgettable landscape.

By late afternoon, we arrive in Ha Giang City. You may choose to stay in a comfortable hotel or, for a more authentic cultural experience, we can arrange accommodation in a traditional local homestay, allowing you to enjoy the warm hospitality and unique lifestyle of the local people.

Day 9: Ha Giang – Dong Van (~180 km/~6 hours)

After completing the required Ha Giang border area permit at the local Immigration Police office, we begin one of the most spectacular sections of the Vietnam Grand North Loop Motorcycle Tour. Today’s route takes us deep into the remote mountains of Ha Giang Province, following narrow and challenging mountain roads that reward riders with some of the most breathtaking scenery in Vietnam.

The journey passes through the homeland of many colourful ethnic minority communities, where traditional villages, dramatic limestone peaks, and endless mountain valleys create an unforgettable riding experience. Although some sections require careful riding due to steep climbs, sharp bends, and changing road conditions, the scenery makes every kilometre worthwhile.

Many riders consider this section from Ha Giang to Dong Van to be the highlight of the entire Northern Vietnam motorcycle tour. The combination of spectacular mountain passes, remote landscapes, authentic local culture, and the famous Ha Giang Karst Plateau makes it one of the finest motorcycle routes in Southeast Asia.

We arrive in Dong Van in the afternoon and have time to relax, explore the old town, and enjoy the unique atmosphere of this remote mountain region.

Day 10: Dong Van – Bao Lac (~80 km/~4 hours)

Some sections of the route may be under construction, with rough tracks and unpaved stretches that require a slower pace. However, this relaxed tempo allows us to fully appreciate the incredible scenery surrounding us.

We continue through the wild and remote landscapes of Ha Giang Province, crossing dramatic mountain passes, deep valleys, and isolated villages far from the busy tourist routes. The rugged beauty of this region is among the most impressive in Vietnam, and every turn reveals another breathtaking viewpoint.

Our destination is Bao Lac, a traditional trading centre and an important cultural crossroads in Northeast Vietnam. The town is home to several ethnic communities, and if the timing is right, we can visit the famous Bao Lac Sunday Market, where people from different ethnic groups on both sides of the border gather to exchange goods, meet friends, and celebrate their unique cultures.

Overnight in Bao Lac, surrounded by the peaceful mountains of northern Vietnam.

Day 11: Bao Lac – Cao Bang (~150 km/~5 hours)

Leaving Bao Lac, we continue our Vietnam Grand North Loop motorcycle adventure towards Cao Bang Province, following beautiful mountain roads through some of the most peaceful landscapes in Northeast Vietnam. The route offers spectacular views from several mountain passes, where you can stop and enjoy panoramic scenery overlooking deep valleys, forest-covered peaks, and remote villages below.

Although the road is generally easy to ride, there are many blind corners and winding sections that require careful attention, especially on mountain descents. We take a relaxed pace and make frequent stops for photographs, refreshments, and enjoying the incredible surroundings. Including breaks for drinks, lunch, and sightseeing, the full journey usually takes around eight hours.

By late afternoon, we arrive in Cao Bang City, where we check into a comfortable hotel and relax after another rewarding day exploring the magnificent mountain roads of Northern Vietnam.

Day 12: Cao Bang – Quang Uyen (~140 km/~5 hours)

After approximately one and a half hours of riding, we reach the peaceful countryside around Quang Uyen, one of the most charming areas of Northeast Vietnam; this beautiful valley is surrounded by dramatic mountains, known as the home of the Nung An ethnic people.

The highlight of today’s stay is an authentic Vietnam homestay experience with a local host family. Here, you can enjoy traditional hospitality, learn about local customs, and taste delicious homemade dishes prepared by the hostess, who is famous for her excellent cooking skills.

After lunch and some time to relax, we continue through spectacular mountain scenery towards Ban Gioc Waterfall, one of the most impressive waterfalls in Vietnam and one of the country’s most iconic natural attractions. Located about 50 kilometres from Quang Uyen, the route to and from Ban Gioc offers a true adventure experience, with sections that can become dusty during dry weather or muddy during the rainy season.

When weather conditions are suitable, you can enjoy a refreshing swim close to where the powerful 50-metre-high waterfall crashes into the river. Surrounded by limestone mountains and peaceful countryside, Ban Gioc Waterfall is a perfect highlight of this unforgettable Vietnam motorcycle tour.

Day 13: Quang Uyen – Lang Son (~180 km/~6 hours)

Leaving Quang Uyen, we continue our Vietnam Grand North Loop motorcycle tour towards Lang Son, following sections of the historic Highway 4. This legendary mountain route has played an important role in Vietnam’s history and offers an enjoyable ride through peaceful countryside, limestone landscapes, and traditional villages.

The journey takes us to Lang Son, a bustling border city that has developed into one of the largest trading centres between Vietnam and China. After arriving, there is time to explore the city, walk through local streets, and discover the unique atmosphere created by centuries of cross-border trade.

For those interested in shopping, the famous Dong Kinh Market is a great place to visit. Here you can find a wide variety of affordable goods and local products, including many items imported through the nearby Chinese border. After exploring Lang Son, we spend the night in a comfortable hotel and prepare for the next stage of our journey towards the coast.

Day 14: Lang Son – Ha Long (~180 km/~7 h)

The route takes us from the mountains towards the coast, following mainly quiet secondary roads through the changing landscapes of Northeast Vietnam, passing through rural areas, industrial zones, and several regions known for their coal mining activities.

Although it is a longer riding day, the journey provides an interesting contrast between Vietnam’s remote mountain regions and its developing industrial areas. We continue at a relaxed pace, making suitable stops along the way to rest, enjoy refreshments, and take photographs.

As we approach Ha Long City, the scenery gradually changes from mountains and countryside to the coastal environment surrounding the world-famous Ha Long Bay. After a full day on the motorcycle, we arrive at our destination and settle in for the night. Hopefully, we arrive without carrying too much of the famous local coal dust from the mining areas along the route!

Day 15: Halong Bay. Cruising.

After many days exploring the spectacular mountains of Northern Vietnam by motorbike, today is a well-deserved rest day to relax and recover from the previous long riding stage. We leave the motorcycles behind and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Ha Long Bay, one of Vietnam’s most famous natural wonders and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

There are two cruise options available:

• Option 1: Join a Group Ha Long Bay Cruise

Depart around noon and board the cruise boat for an unforgettable journey through the limestone islands and emerald waters of Ha Long Bay. After check-in, enjoy a delicious lunch onboard featuring a Vietnamese set menu while cruising through the magnificent bay scenery.

During the afternoon, take a tender boat transfer to visit Surprising Cave (Sung Sot Cave), one of the largest and most impressive caves in Ha Long Bay. You can also enjoy optional activities such as kayaking, swimming, or simply relaxing on the boat while admiring the surrounding karst landscapes.

In the evening, enjoy a Vietnamese dinner onboard. Depending on weather conditions and the cruise schedule, optional evening activities may include watching a movie, singing karaoke, or joining the crew for squid fishing.

• Option 2: Private Ha Long Bay Cruise

For travellers who prefer more privacy and flexibility, we can arrange a private boat cruise in Ha Long Bay. This option provides a more personalized experience and includes overnight accommodation on the boat. Additional costs apply, and we will provide details upon request.

Day 16: Ha Long – Hanoi (~180 km/~4 hours). End of Grand North Loop.

After breakfast, we continue exploring Ha Long Bay before returning to Hanoi. There are two cruise options available:

• Option 1: Standard Cruise Return

Take a tender transfer to Titov Island, where you can enjoy swimming, relaxing on the beach, or climbing to the viewpoint for a fantastic panoramic view of Ha Long Bay. Continue cruising afterward, freshen up onboard, and return to Bai Chay Harbour. After checking out and settling any additional drink charges, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Ha Long City or onboard, depending on the cruise arrangement.

• Option 2: Extended Ha Long Bay Cruise

Continue cruising deeper into Ha Long Bay and enjoy additional sightseeing before having lunch on the boat. The cruise returns around noon. This upgraded option provides more time to appreciate the incredible scenery and costs extra. We will provide the upgrade price if requested.

After the cruise, collect the motorcycles and begin the final ride back to Hanoi via Highway 18 and Highway 1B. We expect to arrive in Hanoi at approximately 5:00 PM, marking the end of your unforgettable Vietnam Grand North Loop Motorbike Tour.

For more information, additional options, or customized arrangements for this Northern Vietnam motorcycle adventure, please contact us at [email protected]