15 Ng. 100 Đ. Nguyễn Xiển, Thanh Xuân Nam, Thanh Xuân, Hà Nội 100000
Embark on an unparalleled and truly epic 15-day "Vientiane Cycle to Hanoi" adventure, a meticulously crafted expedition designed for intrepid explorers eager to experience the diverse landscapes, profound cultural depths, and vibrant living traditions of both Laos and Northern Vietnam in the most active, intimate, and comprehensive way possible. This extensive, cross-border journey uniquely blends the laid-back charm of Laos's capital with the serene beauty of its central and northern regions, the rugged grandeur of Vietnam's mountains, and the rich history of its Northwest, culminating in the bustling, ancient capital of Hanoi, all experienced from the intimate and invigorating perspective of a bicycle. This extended tour is ideal for those seeking a thorough, active exploration and a deep, unhurried connection with the unique heritage and resilient people of these two fascinating Southeast Asian nations.
Your grand adventure begins in Vientiane, the charming and laid-back capital of Laos, nestled on the banks of the Mekong River. Here, you'll have ample opportunity to explore its unique blend of French colonial architecture and ancient Buddhist temples, soaking in its relaxed atmosphere before setting off. From this tranquil beginning, your meticulously planned cycling route will immediately lead you northeastward through the fertile plains and gradually into the dramatic and often challenging mountain landscapes of Central and Northern Laos. You'll pedal along winding roads that carve through lush, verdant valleys, past cascading waterfalls, and through remote, picturesque villages inhabited by diverse ethnic minority groups. This extensive segment offers invaluable opportunities for authentic interactions with local communities, allowing you to witness their traditional ways of life, observe unique customs, and engage in friendly conversations, gaining genuine insights into the rich tapestry of Lao culture and experiencing the heartwarming hospitality of its people firsthand. The stunning scenery, with its karst formations and dense jungle, provides a spectacular backdrop to your ride, offering a new vista around every bend.
As your comprehensive journey progresses, you'll experience the unique thrill of crossing the land border from Laos into Vietnam, a truly memorable and often awe-inspiring transition that few travelers experience by bike. Once in Vietnam, the landscape transforms, welcoming you to the magnificent Northwest region. Your extended cycling routes will take you along well-maintained roads that weave through spectacular mountain passes, past terraced rice paddies that cling to hillsides, and into vibrant, bustling towns. You'll encounter more diverse ethnic minority communities, each with their own distinct costumes and traditions, adding another layer of cultural richness to your expedition and allowing for deeper cultural immersion. Highlights may include challenging climbs and exhilarating descents, as well as opportunities to explore areas historically significant like sections of the Ho Chi Minh Trail, adding a profound historical dimension to your ride. The final leg of your journey will gradually descend from the mountainous terrain into the Red River Delta, leading you to Hanoi, Vietnam's ancient and dynamic capital. Here, you'll arrive with a profound sense of accomplishment and a unique, comprehensive perspective on the shared history and distinct cultures of Laos and Vietnam. This 15-day tour is expertly planned to offer a perfect blend of challenging yet rewarding active adventure, profound cultural immersion, extensive historical discovery, and stunning natural beauty. It promises not just physical activity but a deep, meaningful connection with the soul of these enchanting nations, leaving you with lasting memories and a profound appreciation for their people, their ancient heritage, and their evolving landscapes, all discovered from the unique vantage point of your bicycle.
Epic Cross-Border Cycling Odyssey (15 Days): Embark on an incredible and comprehensive cycling expedition connecting Laos's charming capital Vientiane with Vietnam's vibrant capital Hanoi, traversing diverse and breathtaking landscapes across two nations over an extended period for deeper exploration.
Central & Northern Laos Exploration: Begin your journey cycling through the serene plains and then into the dramatic and spectacular mountainous landscapes of Central and Northern Laos. Pedal along winding roads through lush valleys, past waterfalls, and through remote, authentic villages, experiencing the true wilderness and beauty of this region.
Authentic Ethnic Minority Encounters: Gain profound cultural insights through genuine, extended interactions with diverse ethnic minority groups in both Laos and Vietnam. Witness their unique traditions, observe daily life, and experience firsthand the renowned warmth and hospitality of both cultures, fostering truly immersive cultural exchange.
Seamless Land Border Crossing by Bike: Enjoy the unique and memorable experience of cycling across the land border from Laos into Vietnam, providing an authentic and adventurous transition between countries that few travelers experience.
Spectacular Northwest Vietnam Scenery: Ride through the magnificent Northwest region of Vietnam, renowned for its spectacular mountain passes, majestic terraced rice paddies, and stunning natural beauty, offering incredible photographic opportunities at every turn.
Historical Insights on the Ho Chi Minh Trail: Potentially cycle along sections historically linked to the legendary Ho Chi Minh Trail in Vietnam, connecting your adventure to a significant piece of history.
Diverse & Challenging Cycling Terrains: Experience a wide variety of surfaces, from paved roads through plains and mountains with challenging ascents and exhilarating descents to scenic village paths and rugged rural tracks, ensuring an engaging and dynamic biking experience suitable for active and adventurous riders seeking a comprehensive challenge.
Cultural Exploration in Vientiane & Hanoi: Begin your journey by delving into the relaxed charm and temples of Vientiane, and conclude it by experiencing the rich history, bustling Old Quarter, and vibrant energy of Hanoi.
Stunning Photography Opportunities: Capture breathtaking moments from serene Mekong river views, majestic mountain passes, vibrant ethnic markets, and iconic cultural landmarks, creating a vivid and extensive photo diary of your extraordinary cross-border adventure.
Culinary Journey through Laos & Vietnam: Savor a wide array of delicious and authentic Lao and Vietnamese dishes throughout your journey, from flavorful street food and local delicacies to traditional home-cooked meals, enriching your cultural experience through extensive culinary exploration of both nations.
Fully Supported & Comprehensive Expedition: Travel with absolute confidence and comfort, benefiting from comprehensive inclusions such as a dedicated support vehicle for assistance (always nearby), highly experienced English-speaking local cycling guides who offer deep cultural insights and ensure safety, quality bikes and equipment, comfortable accommodation, most meals, and all necessary entrance fees, ensuring a seamless, safe, and profoundly enjoyable expedition.
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.
Things to be prepared:
1. Hat
2. Small backpack
3. Shoes and shorts for cycling
4. Sunglasses
5. Gloves
Your Perfect Cycling Adventure, Crafted Just for You Across Asia
At Golden Trail Travel, we believe every journey should be as unique as the traveler. As Asia's premier bike tour operator, we specialize in creating bespoke cycling experiences that perfectly match your desires and budget, wherever your wanderlust takes you.
Our dedicated team—comprising experienced biking guides, skilled mechanics, reliable drivers, insightful tour consultants, and passionate bicycle specialists—is committed to ensuring your adventure is seamless, safe, 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 biking tour. 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 biking adventure across Asia? Share your requirements with us today, and let's create memories that will last a lifetime.
8:00 AM pick you up from your hotel we’ll depart to Thalat by van and cycle to get out of the city hustle. Our ride will take us from rice fields through to rain forests as we cycle passed the limestone cliffs of Phou Khao Khauy NP. Lunch will be in the small village of Ban Kern on the Nam Ngum river.
Inc. Meals: Lunch
Cycling: 68km | easy | +560m/-485m
Transit: 20km
Hotel: Long Ngum View Resort
We’ll start the day after breakfast on a boat, making our way through to the village of Longshan, just north of the national park. Our ride takes us straight through the heart of this magnificent natural beauty and through to Tad Leuk waterfall for a well-deserved break. We’ll cycle out of the park and transit through to Paksan for the evening.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Cycling: 48km |moderate | +874m/-955m
Transit: 2.5 hr boat + 1 hr drive
Hotel: Sokbounma in Paksan
An early start to beat the heat of the day, this ride departs directly from the hotel and travels through remote areas and deep forests, where villages are untouched by modern civilization. Our lunch will be served at a local restaurant in Ban Thasi, after which, we truck about 2 hours to Muang Khoun where we will visit the Old stupa and Buddha sculpture which was bombed during the Vietnam war.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Cycling: 81km | moderate | +1,088m/-1,032m
Transit: 3 hr drive
Hotel: Maly Hotel
In the morning we’ll visit the Plain of Jars site, an archeological landscape consisting of thousands of stone jars scattered throughout the valley. These ‘jars’ are considered to be up to 2000 years old and theorized to potentially be old burial pits.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast
Cycling: None
Transit: Local
Hotel: Maly Hotel
Day 5 : Phon Sa Vanh – Kasi – Cycling mountains
We’ll avoid riding the main road, the climbs, and the trucks between Phonsavan and Phou Khoun by transferring in the morning. After lunch, we’ll take the bikes on the much quieter and scenic downhill ride to Kasi. This laid-back little river town will be our last stop before riding into Luang Prabang.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Cycling: 45km | easy | +664m/-1,672m
Transit: 3 hrs
Hotel: Local Guesthouse
Day 6 : Kasi – Luang Prabang – Riding into town
We’ll skip the first 30km of climbing by jumping in the van to the viewpoint. From here we’ll attempt to cycle into Luang Prabang, with twice as much downhill as up in the remaining 95km. There’s no rush and a support van that’s with us the whole way. Once we get into Luang Prabang, we’ll meet up again for dinner at the Friends International restaurant, KhaiPhaen. It’s a social enterprise based restaurant that empowers disadvantaged youth with vocational training among other support
Inc. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Cycling: 95km | moderate | +1233m / -2778m
Transit: 30km
Hotel: My Lao Home Boutique Hotel
Day 7 : Luang Prabang Cycling to Buffalos, bears, and falls
The relaxed road out of Luang Prabang will cycle to Kuangsi Falls, one of the most spectacular swimming holes on the continent. Along the way, we’ll visit the Lao Buffalo Dairy. Here, you’ll meet Aussie farmer and founder, Suzie, whose initiative provides an insight into the issues surrounding village farmers and water buffalo care. The dairy also provides animal husbandry nutrition programs to the rural communities close to the falls. Before taking a dip in the beautiful Kuangsi Falls, we’ll get a behind-the-scenes experience with the team from Free the Bears. This sanctuary rescues and rehabilitates sun, moon, and sloth bears from bile farms.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Cycling: Optional 30km | easy | +402 m / -291 m
Transit: 30km
Hotel: My Lao Home Boutique Hote
Day 8 : Luang Prabang – Nong Khuay Village – family life and homestay
We’ll cycle 35km out of Luang Prabang is Nong Khuay Village. A very remote community, home to 80 families of both Hmong and Khummu origin, the initiative is working extensively within the village to create new streams of revenue to boost the village economy through tourism. We’ll have the opportunity to spend time with the local families and engage in some traditional handicraft masterclasses. We will stay the night with the community and experience real village life and eat with our new host families.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Cycling: Optional 30km | easy | +402 m / -291 m
Transit: 30km
Hotel: Home-stay
Day 9 : Nong Khuay – Nong Khiaw – Cycling through remote villages
We cycle out of the village on dirt roads for 37 km and when we reach the city transfer north for 3 hours towards the Nam Ou Dam and then on to Pak Mong, from here it is a further 30km through little villages nestled in between spectacular Karst peaks. The small town of Nong Khiaw is a favorite and the rustic charm of this quiet enclave is intoxicating.. relax poolside in the shadow of elephant head mountain.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Cycling: 67km (30km + 37km) | moderate |
Transit: 2 hours
Hotel: Mandala Ou Resort (pool)
Day 10 : Nong Khiaw – Muang Khua- River cruising in a long tail boat
Today we transfer to the river to board a traditional longboat for the cruise up the Nam Ou river to the entrance to the Phongsaly district. We call in at the sleepy town of Muang Ngoi on the way to stretch our legs and visit the temple and the cave complex used as shelter during the 2nd Indochina war. We’ll enjoy a pre-packed picnic lunch along the way, arriving in Muang Khua around 5 pm.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Cycling: None
Transit: All day by boat
Hotel: New Chaleunsouk Guesthouse
Day 11 : Muang Khua – Dien Bien Phu – Crossing into Vietnam
Leaving Laos today, but not before an epic 65km ride to the border from Muang Khua. This tarmac road will take you on 2 climbs, one just over 600m (10km) and the last over 800m (15km). Lunch in Laos before you cross over to Vietnam, you’ll be transferred to the historical city of Dien Bien Phu to relax and explore. If possible, we may be able to meet the program coordinators of SOS to learn about their community development programs.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Cycling: 65km | hard | +2219m / -1404m
Transit: 1 hour
Hotel: Him Lam Resort (pool)
Day 12 : Dien Bien Phu – Mường Lay – Valleys, rivers and a lost city
Today we cycle along windy valleys on a paved road that snakes through the beautiful countryside. We are surrounded by rice fields and jungles. We climb to an elevation of over 1000m and are rewarded once again with stunning views before descending (20km) to Muong Lay town.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Cycling: 70km | hard | +1,718m / -2,387m
Transit: 30 mins
Hotel: Hoa Binh Hotel
Day 13 : Muong Lay – Lai Châu – The mountain challenge
Get up early to capture pristine nature and picturesque scenery over the Black River. After breakfast at the hotel, we will cycle the first 25km on a tarmac road to Chan Nua. A vast landscape opens up beneath you: endless mountains stretching into the distance and craterous valleys dotted with stilt-home villages clustered around clear streams. Today is a hard day’s cycling, but worth it. The reward at the end of it is some of the best views in the whole region.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Cycling: 70km | hard | +1,718m / -2,387m
Transit: None
Hotel: Muong Thanh Lai Chau Hotel (pool)
Day 14 : Lai Chau – Sapa – Epic mountains, incredible valleys
Today is another great day as we conquer the O Quy Ho Pass. This 38 km makes for the longest pass of Northwest Vietnam. It is located in the system of four mountain passes in the North West. This climb takes you to an elevation of over 2000m, with the lowest point of the day at 700m. The views and stunning scenery will provide lifelong memories and will forever be ingrained as some of the most majestic and spectacular natural imagery on the planet.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Cycling: 85km | hard | +2291m / -1700m
Transit: None
Hotel: Sapa Elegent Hotel
Day 15 : Sapa to Hanoi – cycling to villages
A morning meander through the local market will highlight the melting pot of ethnic tribes and goods for sale.
You can cycle a gentle 25km downhill into the Sapa valley to visit Lao Chai and Ta Van villages and experience the fantastic scenery of mountains, rice paddy fields, and Hmong villages along the way. Alternatively, you can rest and relax in the town of Sapa before lunch. Then transferred to Hanoi via a new highway. Arrive in Hanoi around 5:30 PM. Check-in youe own hotel .End The Tour At Your Hanoi Hotel.
Inc. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Cycling: 25km | Easy and hard| +164m / -1267m
Transit: 4 hours
Hotel: None
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.