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

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

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9 Days Hanoi Cycling through hilltribe villages to Luang Prabang

  • CODE: GDT1456
  • Private Tour
  • Duration: 8 - 12 days
  • Price from: Contact
  • Route: Vietnam - Ha Noi - Mai Chau - Laos - Luang Prabang

Overview

Embark on an exhilarating and truly epic 9-day "Hanoi Cycling through Hilltribe Villages to Luang Prabang" adventure, a meticulously crafted expedition designed for intrepid explorers eager to experience the diverse landscapes, profound cultural depths, and vibrant living traditions of both Northern Vietnam and Laos. This comprehensive, cross-border journey uniquely blends the dynamic energy of Hanoi with the breathtaking vistas and rich tapestry of Vietnam's Northwest, leading into the rugged beauty of northern Laos's mountains and culminating in the spiritual tranquility of Luang Prabang, all experienced from the intimate and invigorating perspective of a bicycle. This extensive tour is ideal for those seeking a dynamic, active adventure and a deep connection with the unique heritage and resilient people of these two fascinating Southeast Asian nations.

Your grand adventure begins in Hanoi, Vietnam's ancient and dynamic capital. Here, you'll have a chance to immerse yourself in its rich history, bustling Old Quarter, and vibrant street life before setting off. From this captivating urban beginning, your meticulously planned cycling route will immediately lead you westward into the dramatic and often challenging mountain landscapes of Northwest Vietnam. 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 region is famous for its stunning terraced rice paddies that cling to hillsides, creating a mosaic of greens and golds depending on the season. This 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 Vietnamese hilltribe 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.

As your journey progresses, you'll experience the unique thrill of crossing the land border from Vietnam into Laos, a truly memorable and often awe-inspiring transition. Once in Laos, the landscape continues with its mountainous grandeur, gradually softening as you approach the Mekong River. Your cycling routes will take you along well-maintained roads that weave through spectacular mountain passes, past more traditional villages, and alongside serene river views. You'll continue to encounter diverse ethnic minority communities, each with their own distinct costumes and traditions, adding another layer of cultural richness to your expedition. The adventure culminates in Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage city in Laos, renowned for its golden temples, saffron-robed monks, and serene riverside charm. Here, you'll arrive with a profound sense of accomplishment and a unique, comprehensive perspective on the shared history and distinct cultures of Vietnam and Laos. This 9-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.

Trip Map

Highlight

  • Epic Cross-Border Cycling Journey: Experience an incredible 9-day journey by bike, connecting Vietnam's vibrant capital Hanoi with the tranquil UNESCO city of Luang Prabang in Laos, traversing diverse and breathtaking landscapes.

  • Immersive Northwest Vietnam Mountain Biking: Challenge yourself cycling through the dramatic and spectacular mountainous landscapes of Northwest Vietnam. Pedal along winding roads through valleys, past terraced rice paddies, and through remote hilltribe villages, experiencing the true beauty of this region.

  • Authentic Ethnic Minority Encounters: Gain deep cultural insights through genuine interactions with diverse ethnic minority groups in both Vietnam and Laos. Witness their unique traditions, costumes, and daily lives in remote villages, fostering profound cultural exchange.

  • Seamless Land Border Crossing by Bike: Enjoy the unique and memorable experience of cycling across the land border from Vietnam into Laos, providing an authentic and adventurous transition between countries.

  • Scenic Northern Laos Cycling: Continue your adventure cycling through the beautiful, rugged landscapes of Northern Laos, with views of karst formations, lush jungles, and serene river valleys as you approach Luang Prabang.

  • Diverse & Engaging Cycling Terrains: Enjoy a wide variety of surfaces, from paved mountain roads with challenging ascents and descents to scenic village paths and rural tracks, ensuring an engaging and dynamic biking experience suitable for active and adventurous riders.

  • Cultural Exploration in Hanoi & Luang Prabang: Begin your journey by delving into the rich history and bustling energy of Hanoi, and conclude it by experiencing the spiritual ambiance and charming riverside life of Luang Prabang.

  • Stunning Photography Opportunities: Capture breathtaking moments from bustling cityscapes, majestic mountain passes, vibrant ethnic markets, and serene rural scenes, creating a vivid and extensive photo diary of your extraordinary cross-border adventure.

  • Culinary Journey through Vietnam & Laos: Savor delicious and authentic Vietnamese and Lao dishes throughout your journey, from flavorful street food to traditional home-cooked meals, enriching your cultural experience through culinary exploration.

  • 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.

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.

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.

Inclusion

Exclusion

Itinerary

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Day 1: Hanoi Arrival
Arrive historic Noi Bai Airport. The transfer into Hanoi is unforgettable passing emerald-green rice paddies and water buffalo before entering the tree lined boulevards of the cultural and political capital of Vietnam that has slumbered largely unchanged for decades. Our hotel in central Hoan Kiem Lake where we’ll meet for orientation, followed by a “jet lag treatment” at a local herbal spa with massage. In the evening, well enjoy a special reception at a leading artist’s private compound on the Red River.
Day 2: Hanoi City Tour ( B , L )

Rise at dawn to witness traditional exercise rituals on Hoan Kiem Lake and explore the busy morning market in the nearby Old Quarter before breakfast. Afterwards, visit to the Soviet-era Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum where “Bac Ho” lies in state, followed by the Temple of Literature, Hanoi’s premier university for hundreds of years.

Afterwards, lunch in the lake area, while enjoying a “survival Vietnamese” lesson with your guide. After, touring of the bustling Old Quarter by cyclo (pedicab) and foot, pausing to visit with local family in their “tube” home.

This afternoon, enjoying bia hoi, or happy hour, on the streets joining  Hanoians after work. Tonight, we’ll dinner if you’ve still the energy, join us for karaoke, wildly popular in Vietnam.

Day 3: Hanoi to Mai Chau Valley ( B , L , D )

Our destination today is the bucolic Mai Chau Valley, a picturesque river valley region populated with a diversity of hilltribes. Our biking route is throug picturesque, rolling hills spotting hilltribes in the area, including the White Thai, distantly related to tribes in Thailand, Laos and China.

After arrival, enjoy a dip in the pool before walking through the sprawling rice fields to a nearby hilltribe village where we’ll enjoy a traditional dance performance and dinner. 

 45 miles +3,114 feet

Day 4: Mai Chau to Vieng Xai ( Into Laos ) ( B , L , D )

This morning we’ll make a run for the border by van, along mountainous  through Pu Luong and Pu Ha Nature preserves and several developing border town. After crossing into Laos, we begin riding over the quiet rolling hills towards Vieng Xai, passing hilltribe and local Lao villages in the area, including Thai Dam, Thai Dang, Meuy, and Kmu. 

In the late afternoon, arrive in sleepy Vieng Xai, and after a quick freshening up, will explore a nearby network of caves used by the Pathet Lao rebels during the Vietnam War.

 31 miles +2,234 feet

Day 5: Vieng Xai to Vieng Thong ( B , L , D )

After two warm up days, we’re ready for our longest day in saddle, an epic day’s century ride to Vieng Thong over the towering “Laotian Alps.” The quiet and winding route passes a smattering of villages while climbing over two 5,000 foot passes. Our sag wagon is always nearby anytime you feel like a lift.

After arrival in Vien Thong, freshen up before walking to nearby hot springs to douse worn legs before dinner.

 101 miles | +10,627 feet

Day 6: Vieng Thong to Nong Khiaw

Another long ride over the passes after breakfast and a visit to the local hilltribe market. Today we pass through the lush jungle and forests scenery of two national parks as we roll over three mountain passes. Our destination, Nong Khiaw, is a remote northern outpost on the bucolic Nam Ou River.

In Nong Khiaw, we’ll enjoy delicious cold Lao brews with panoramic views of the river area. Now this is Laos! After dinner, a massage in town can be arranged.

 115 miles | +9,159 feet

Day 7: Muang Ngoi - Jungle and River Tour ( B , L , D )
Our rest day begins with a cruise by longtail boat to sublime Muang Ngoi to hike into remote villages and cloud forest in the area. We’ll trek to Tham Kang through stunning scenery, where, according to local legend, a sacred Naga resides. Also visiting in the villages of Ban Na and Thai Daeng before returning back to Nong Khiaw by boat in the afternoon for dinner and accommodation, and perhaps another leg massage before tomorrow’s ride.
Day 8: Nong Khiaw to Luang Prabang ( B ,L )

Our route this morning meanders along the scenic Nam Ou River, surrounded by emerald green fields of rice and small farms.

From our lunch spot, cruising by boat the remaining distance to Luang Prabang. In the late afternoon we arrive into Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage pleasantly located at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers and encircled by distance jagged peaks. This evening we’ll enjoy a private baci ceremony, a traditional lao welcoming ritual for centuries before dinner.

 54 miles +1,205 feet

Day 9: Luang Prabang ( B )
Rise at dawn to witness the languid alms procession of monks passing through town, then tour the small town, visiting the temples Luang Prabang in known for and meeting with monks. Also visiting other notable sites, including the colonial-era royal palace and museum. For lunch, we’ll explore the central food market sampling street foods. At dusk, a short hike to the summit of Mount Phousi for panoramic sunset before wandering the sprawling night market. Tonight a special and unforgettable farewell dinner has been organized.
Day 10: Departure home or Angkor ( B )
After breakfast and farewells with crew, transfer to airport for two-hour flight to Siem Reap, base for exploring the magnificent temples of Angkor. After arrival in Siem Reap and clearing immigration, transfer to hotel for lunch and orientation with guide.

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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