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Personalized tours in Vietnam, Thailand, Laos & Cambodia, crafted for unforgettable, immersive experiences.

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  • Address

    15 Ng. 100 Đ. Nguyễn Xiển, Thanh Xuân Nam, Thanh Xuân, Hà Nội 100000

  • Email
    info@goldentrailtravel.com
  • Phone
    +84(832) - 126 - 699

Northwest 8 Days: GTT802

  • CODE: GDT712
  • Private Tour
  • Duration: 8 - 12 days
  • Price from: Contact
  • Route: Vietnam - Moc Chau - Son La - Tuan Giao - Yen Bai - Ha Noi - Sa Pa - Bac Ha - Mai Chau - Lai Chau

Overview

Prepare for an exhilarating 8-day motorbike expedition through the majestic Northwest of Vietnam, a region globally celebrated for its dramatic mountainous landscapes, intricate terraced rice fields that seem to defy gravity, vibrant tapestry of ethnic minority cultures, and profound historical significance. This meticulously designed motorbiking tour (GTT802) by Golden Trail Travel offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself deeply in the authentic heart of Vietnam's most scenic and culturally rich northern provinces. From the moment you depart the bustling energy of Hanoi, you'll embark on a journey that winds through lush valleys, scales challenging mountain passes, and unveils the daily lives of diverse ethnic minority communities in remote, pristine villages that often remain untouched by mainstream tourism.

Your epic journey begins by leaving the urban sprawl of Hanoi behind, heading west towards the serene beauty of Mai Chau. Here, you'll be warmly welcomed by the White Thai people, experiencing their unique culture firsthand through an overnight stay in a traditional stilt house and savoring delicious local cuisine. The ride continues across the vast and verdant Moc Chau Plateau, renowned for its endless tea plantations and refreshing climate, before the thrilling roads lead you to Son La and the historically resonant Dien Bien Phu. This segment offers a powerful educational experience as you explore the pivotal battlefields and museums that shaped Vietnam's destiny, providing profound insights into the nation's struggle for independence. You'll walk through history, understanding the resilience and spirit of the Vietnamese people.

As you venture deeper into the highlands, the scenery transforms into a breathtaking panorama of rugged mountains and meticulously carved terraced rice fields. The route takes you through Muong Lay, a town nestled by the mighty Da River, before ascending towards the iconic Sapa, often referred to as the "Town in the Clouds." Prepare to be mesmerized by the vast, intricate rice terraces, often described as a "stairway to heaven," and engage with diverse ethnic groups like the H'mong, Dao, and Tay. You'll have ample time to wander through Sapa's vibrant markets, trek through picturesque valleys, and discover hidden waterfalls that dot the landscape. The return journey guides you through more stunning mountain passes and traditional villages, offering continuous visual feasts, before culminating in your ride back to Hanoi, filled with memories of an extraordinary Northwest Vietnam motorbike tour. This expedition is perfectly crafted for avid riders seeking authentic cultural encounters, thrilling off-road experiences, and unparalleled photographic opportunities amidst some of Asia's most spectacular natural wonders. Get ready for a journey that promises to be both challenging and incredibly rewarding, creating stories that will last a lifetime

Trip Map

Highlight

  • Thrilling Motorcycle Routes: Conquer legendary and challenging mountain passes such as Pha Din Pass, Tram Ton Pass (Vietnam's highest mountain pass), and Thung Khe Pass, offering exhilarating curves, steep ascents, and awe-inspiring panoramic vistas. Experience a diverse range of terrains, from smooth asphalt to thrilling dirt tracks and winding village paths, catering to both experienced and adventurous riders.

  • Immersive Cultural Homestays: Enjoy authentic overnight stays in traditional stilt houses with local ethnic minority families (primarily Thai, H'mong, and Dao). This provides a unique and genuine opportunity to understand their daily lives, partake in traditional activities, and savor delicious homemade regional dishes, fostering true cultural exchange.

  • Spectacular Terraced Rice Fields: Witness the iconic and breathtaking beauty of the rice terraces in Sapa and potentially around Mu Cang Chai (depending on the exact routing and season), often described as natural masterpieces carved into the mountainsides. These verdant or golden landscapes are especially stunning during planting or harvesting seasons, offering incredible photographic moments.

  • Deep Dive into History: Explore the hallowed grounds of Dien Bien Phu, including key battle sites like Hill A1, the Dien Bien Phu Victory Museum, and General Giap's Bunker. Gain a profound understanding of the historical significance of this pivotal battle that shaped modern Vietnam.

  • Stunning Natural Landscapes: Discover the serene charm of Mai Chau Valley, the vast and verdant Moc Chau Plateau with its endless tea plantations, and the dramatic mountain scenery surrounding Son La, Muong Lay, and Sapa. Each day offers a new, postcard-perfect backdrop.

  • Rich Ethnic Minority Interactions: Engage directly with various ethnic minority communities, observing their vibrant traditional costumes, unique languages, and fascinating customs. Visit bustling local markets where different groups converge to trade goods and socialize, offering incredible photographic opportunities and genuine insights into their way of life.

  • Off-the-Beaten-Path Exploration: Venture into remote and less-traveled areas, providing a genuine glimpse into the untouched rural life of Northern Vietnam, far from typical tourist routes. Discover hidden gems and experience the tranquility and authenticity of the countryside.

  • Experienced Local Guides: Ride with passionate and highly knowledgeable local guides who are not only expert riders but also fluent in English, offering invaluable insights into the local culture, history, and landscapes, ensuring a safe, enriching, and truly memorable journey.

  • Delicious Regional Cuisine: Savor a wide array of authentic Vietnamese dishes, including local specialties specific to the Northwest region, ensuring a true culinary adventure throughout your tour. From hearty mountain fare to fresh local produce, every meal is an experience

Service

HOTELS
Economy 2*+ Hotels
Superior 3* Hotels
First Class 4* Hotels
Deluxe 5* Hotels
Luxury 5*++ Hotels

Notes:
*All prices are based on per adult, in Double/Twin sharing
Surcharge will be applied for single traveler or single room request

Important Notes:
HOTELS, PROGRAMS & SCHEDULES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE

GUIDE/LEADER:
English speaking guide. French , Germany , Spanish, Italian, Russian  speaking guide can be arranged with on request.

Your Dream Motorbike holiday, Crafted Just for You Across Asia

At Golden Trail Travel, we believe every getaway should be as unique as the traveler. As Asia's premier Motorbike holiday tour operator, we specialize in creating bespoke coastal experiences that perfectly match your desires and budget, wherever your wanderlust takes you.

Our dedicated team—comprising experienced local experts, reliable drivers, insightful tour consultants, and passionate travel specialists—is committed to ensuring your escape is seamless, relaxing, and truly unforgettable.

Whether you're exploring solo, enjoying a family getaway, or embarking on a group expedition, we're here to design a trip that's exclusively yours. The itineraries you see are just a starting point; consider them a canvas upon which we'll paint your ideal Asian Motorbike holiday. We invite you to share your ideas, tell us your preferences, and let us know your budget. We'll meticulously customize an existing itinerary or craft a brand-new program from the ground up, adding or excluding elements until it's absolutely perfect for you.

Ready to start planning your dream Motorbike holiday across Asia? Share your requirements with us today, and let's create memories that will last a lifetime.

Inclusion

Exclusion

Itinerary

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Day 1: Hanoi – Mai Chau. ~170 km, ~6 h.
Today is the first day of this Northwest 8 days motorbiking of Vietnam. Before starting to ride, we will have a short briefing to let you know about the rules. In addition, the guide will show you how to understand him by his body language. We start around 9.30am after the rush hour.Once out of the Red River Delta, which brims with traditional farming activity, we pass through limestone monoliths and into foothills populated by Muong people. We head straight at the main range before breaching a high and beautiful forested pass, which descends into the hidden valley of Mai Chau where we spend the night with friends in a traditional Thai stilt house. The valley of Mai Chau lies between two rivers: the Da River and the Ma River. Therefore, Mai Chau is very fertile and rich in varied landscapes, medium mountains, forest, lake, rivers, and infinitude of small footpaths and offer many possibilities of a trek. In the valley of Mai Chau and its surroundings are Muong, White Thai, H’mong (in the height), and the Dao who we meet at the markets or in their villages.
Golden Trail Travel Motorbike Adventures - Northwest 8 Days Motorbiking Of Vietnam to Mai Chau.
Day 2: Mai Chau – Son La. ~200 km, ~8 h.
On good road looking high over distant mountains, we head up into a forested region populated by H’mong people before descending into a mountainous tea-growing region. Soon after we follow a long valley floor covered in a sea of rice surrounded by Black Thai villages all the way to Son La with its bargain-filled market. Sleep in a hotel.
Day 3: Son La – Muong Lay. ~200 km, ~8 h.
There are 15 passes in total. In reality, you ride on a very nice road with a stunning landscape. Probably the most beautiful journey of the whole trip even the road is in poor condition. Sleep in a hotel.
Day 4: Muong Lay – Lai Chau. ~120 km, ~6 h.
In general, this is the most demanding and remote section of the drive which takes us upstream along the left side of a Black River tributary through the forest on a bumpy dirt road past isolated pockets of Tay, Thai, H’mong, and Man peoples before breaching a pass to enter the Tam Duong plain, which is covered in shark’s teeth-like limestone karts.We would visit a Mang village near Sin Ho, the guide will buy some food to give to the head of the village, and he later distributes our donations to the villagers. We stay in a hotel.
Day 5: Lai Chau – Sapa. ~100 km, ~5 h.
Tam Duong market in the morning. There are colourful Montagnard groups living in Tam Duong: Black H’mong and Dzao. ~10am: beautiful drive at a slow pace on the bumpy road to Sapa. We will have a big breakfast because there is nothing to eat on the way, just ourselves with the wildness. We stay O/N in Cat Cat Hotel.Golden Trail Travel Motorbike Adventures - Northwest 8 Days Motorbiking Of Vietnam to Sapa.
Day 6: Sapa – Coc Ly – Bac Ha. ~120 km, ~4 h.
Ride down to Pac Ngam to meet the boat that is waiting to take us to Coc Ly for the beautiful market (best on Tuesday) where you will meet H’mong, Dzao, and Phu La people. In fact, Coc Ly is wild, surrounded by forest, and could only be reached by boat or bike. We would leave the bike behind to enjoy the comfort of boating on Chay River for over 1 hour (20 km). Lunch in Coc Ly before coming back to Pac Ngam and ride up to Bac Ha.
Day 7: Bac Ha – Luc Yen – Vu Linh. ~180 km, ~6 h.
We start from Bac Ha and then ride down to Luc Yen. Ride on to Vu Linh in about 2 hours around the lake on a small road lined with palm trees and scenic mountain views. It will be dark already. However, the welcome is exceptional at Dao village of Vu Linh.
Day 8: Vu Linh – Hanoi. ~200 km, ~7 h.
End of Northwest 8 days dirt bike ride.Come back to Hanoi by Song Thao and then Son Tay. In general, it’s a very nice road.We try to arrive in Hanoi before 5pm to avoid rush hours. Otherwise, you should be good with city traffic from the experience you got over the last days.  

FAQS

1. What types of tours does Golden Trail Travel offer?

Answer: Golden Trail Travel specializes in offering a wide range of travel packages to Vietnam and other Indochina countries such as Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Indonesia, China, and Malaysia. We offer themed tours including Classic Highlights, Cycling, Trekking, Beach Holidays, Luxury Honeymoon, Short Trips, Family, Off The Beaten Track, Multi-Country, Motorbiking, Veteran, Food, Students, Luxury, Golf, Photography, Cooking Class, Bird Watching, Indochina Cruises, Kayaking, Muslim-friendly tours, Offroad 4x4WD, Indochina MICE Travel, Cave Expedition, and Helicopter tours.

2. How can I book a tour with Golden Trail Travel?

Answer: You can book a tour by contacting us directly via phone, email, or by filling out the contact form on our website. Our team of travel experts will advise and assist you in designing a suitable itinerary.

3. Can tours be customized?

Answer: Absolutely! We understand that every traveler has unique preferences. Golden Trail Travel is happy to customize tour packages to fit your specific needs, interests, and budget.

4. Does Golden Trail Travel provide visa support services?

Answer: Depending on your nationality and the destination, we may provide guidance or assistance with the necessary visa procedures. Please contact us for more detailed information.

5. What makes Golden Trail Travel different from other travel agencies?

Answer: We are committed to delivering authentic and unique travel experiences in Vietnam and Indochina. With a team of knowledgeable local experts, meticulously designed tour packages, and dedicated customer care, we ensure every trip is a memorable journey.

6. What should I prepare before the trip?

Answer: We will provide you with a detailed checklist of what to prepare, including information on luggage, appropriate clothing for the weather and local culture, essential personal items, and health advice.

7. What is Golden Trail Travel's cancellation policy?

Answer: Our cancellation policy will be clearly stated in the terms and conditions when you book a tour. Please refer to this information or contact us for specific details.

8. Where can I find information about travel safety and health?

Answer: We prioritize the safety and health of our travelers. Before your trip, we will provide information and advice regarding health, travel insurance, and safety measures at the destination.

9. Can I request a tour guide who speaks Vietnamese or a specific language?

Answer: Yes, we can arrange tour guides who speak Vietnamese or other common languages (such as English, French, German, Spanish, etc.) upon your request and subject to availability. Please inform us of your language preference when booking your tour.

10. Does Golden Trail Travel offer travel insurance?

Answer: We highly recommend all travelers purchase comprehensive travel insurance before departure. While we do not directly provide insurance, we can advise on suitable insurance types and the importance of having coverage during your trip

11. How can I pay for my tour?

Answer: We accept various payment methods, including bank transfers, credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express), and some online payment options. Detailed information on payment options and payment schedules will be provided upon confirmation of your tour booking.

12. Does Golden Trail Travel offer tours for solo travelers?

Answer: Yes, we have tour options suitable for solo travelers, including group joining tours or specially designed private tours. Please contact us so we can advise on the best package for you.

13. Are the tours child-friendly or suitable for seniors?

Answer: We offer many family-friendly tour packages and can adjust itineraries to suit travelers of all ages, including children and seniors. We will advise on the difficulty level, travel time, and activities appropriate for each member of your family.

14. Where can I read reviews from previous customers?

Answer: You can find customer reviews and testimonials on our website (if a review section is available), social media pages, or reputable travel platforms like TripAdvisor.

15. What are Golden Trail Travel's sustainability or responsible tourism policies?

Answer: We are committed to practicing responsible and sustainable tourism. We constantly strive to minimize our environmental impact, respect local cultures, and contribute positively to the communities where we operate.

16. What happens if there's an emergency during the trip?

Answer: Your safety is our top priority. Golden Trail Travel has a 24/7 emergency support team. We will provide emergency contact numbers and detailed instructions before your trip. Our guides and local partners are trained to handle emergency situations professionally.

17. Are my payment methods secure?

Answer: Absolutely secure. We use highly encrypted online payment gateways and comply with international standards for data security. Your personal and financial information will be strictly protected.

18. What support will I receive during the trip?

Answer: Yes. Throughout your trip, you will always have the support of your local guide, driver, and Golden Trail Travel's operation team. We will provide a 24/7 support hotline so you can contact us anytime if you have any issues or need assistance.

19. What is included and not included in the tour price?

Answer: Each tour package has clear details on included services (e.g., accommodation, transportation, meals as per itinerary, entrance fees to attractions, tour guide) and exclusions (e.g., international flights, visas, travel insurance, drinks, tips, personal expenses). You will receive a detailed itinerary and an inclusion/exclusion list before confirming your tour booking.

20. What is the typical group size for Golden Trail Travel tours?

Answer: Our tour group sizes can vary depending on the type of tour. For join-in tours, we try to keep the numbers small to ensure a personalized and comfortable experience. We also offer private tours for families or groups of friends upon request.

21. Whom can I contact if I have questions or need assistance before departure?

Answer: Before departure, you can contact our team of consultants via phone, email, or online chat. We are always ready to answer any questions and help you prepare best for your trip.

22. How is Golden Trail Travel committed to sustainable and responsible tourism?

Answer: We are strongly committed to sustainable tourism. This is reflected in our collaboration with responsible local partners, supporting local communities, encouraging travelers to respect culture and environment, and minimizing negative impacts on destinations. Our goal is to benefit both travelers and local people.

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Pricing Notes

The above price is based on a private tour (Group of 2). It's more reasonable withbigger group size

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