15 Ng. 100 Đ. Nguyễn Xiển, Thanh Xuân Nam, Thanh Xuân, Hà Nội 100000
Prepare yourself for an expedition that transcends the definition of a mere cycling tour. Grand Northern Vietnam Cycling Tour 14 Days symphony of wheels and wonders, meticulously composed for the traveler who seeks to touch the very soul of Indochina.
Imagine a world where jagged limestone peaks pierce the clouds like dragons' teeth, where emerald rivers carve through ancient canyons, and where time seems to stand still in villages hidden amongst the mist. This is Northern Vietnam—raw, unfiltered, and breathtakingly beautiful.
Your journey begins in the tranquil embrace of Ba Be Lake, a jade jewel hidden in the jungle. From there, you will trace the Chinese border to witness the thunderous power of Ban Gioc Waterfall, one of the world’s most majestic natural boundaries. But the true adventure lies ahead on the legendary "Happiness Road." You will conquer the Dong Van Karst Plateau Global Geopark, a UNESCO heritage site where rocks bloom like flowers and the Hmong people cling to the cliffs with resilience and pride.
Just when you think you have seen it all, we unveil our secret finale: Hoang Su Phi. Here, far from the tourist trail, you will find a sanctuary of golden rice terraces cascading down the mountains like a stairway to heaven.
This is not a race; it is an immersion. With premium support vehicles, boutique accommodations, and a focus on culinary delights, we ensure that while your legs may work, your spirit will soar. Come, let us show you a Vietnam that few have ever seen.
The Emerald Sanctuary: Sail on a traditional dugout canoe across Ba Be Lake at sunset, watching fishermen cast their nets in the golden light.
Borderland Majesty: Stand before the roaring curtain of water at Ban Gioc Waterfall, feeling the spray on your face as you gaze across into China.
The 14-Tier Adrenaline: Conquer the Khau Coc Cha Pass, a marvel of engineering with 14 vertical switchbacks that will test your legs and reward your eyes.
The King of Passes: Pedal the legendary Ma Pi Leng Pass, hovering 800 meters above the turquoise abyss of the Nho Que River—a ride that belongs on every cyclist's bucket list.
Living History: Sip tea in the century-old Hmong King’s Palace and walk the sacred ground of Pac Bo, where Vietnam’s modern history began.
Golden Harvest: Retreat to a hidden eco-lodge in Hoang Su Phi, surrounded by endless ripples of rice terraces, and soothe your muscles in a traditional Red Dao herbal bath.
Culinary Adventure: From the smoky flavor of grilled stream fish to the warmth of corn wine, taste the authentic flavors of the highlands in curated, safe, and delicious meals.
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:
Hat
Small backpack
Shoes and shorts for cycling
Sunglasses
Gloves
2 pairs of riding shorts
2 riding jerseys (quick-dry)
2 pairs of quick dry socks for cycling
Comfortable shoes for biking and walking
Riding gloves
2-3 t-shirts or casual shirts
Trousers or jeans
1-2 pairs of casual socks for non-cycling activities
3-5 sets of underwear (quick-dry)
Cool-weather jacket or rain jacket
Extra layers and gloves for cooler season or climate (thin, thermal, water-wicking)
Bathing suit
Sandals
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.
08:00 AM (Morning): Our journey begins as our premium support van collects you from your hotel. We leave the chaotic energy of Hanoi behind, watching the cityscape dissolve into the verdant tea plantations of Thai Nguyen.
10:30 AM: A Taste of Tea: We pause at a local tea estate where the hills roll in endless waves of green. Here, you’ll sip fresh Tan Cuong tea—bitter at the tip of the tongue but sweet in the throat—paired with traditional peanut candy.
12:30 PM (Lunch): Savor your first taste of mountain cuisine at a local restaurant en route, featuring free-range chicken and seasonal stir-fried vegetables.
14:00 PM (Afternoon): The adventure truly starts. As we near the national park, the air turns crisp and cool. We unload the bikes for a warm-up ride (~35km) that feels like entering a lost world. The road winds gently under a canopy of ancient trees, flanked by towering limestone cliffs that guard the secrets of the Tay people.
16:30 PM: We trade pedals for paddles. Boarding a private boat, we drift across Ba Be Lake just as the sun begins to set. The water turns into a sheet of liquid gold, reflecting the silhouette of the karst mountains. It’s a moment of pure Zen before we dock at our boutique riverside eco-lodge.
Cycling Distance: 35 km | Total Distance: ~240 km | Terrain: Flat & Undulating | Difficulty: Easy.
Meals: Lunch, Dinner.
Accommodation: Saigon Ba Be Resort ****
08:00 AM (Morning): Wake up to the mystical morning mist hovering over the lake. We begin with a boat excursion upstream on the Nang River. Our destination is the colossal Puong Cave, a cathedral of stone carved by the river itself, where thousands of bats cling to the soaring ceiling.
10:30 AM: Jungle Break: We stop at a secluded spot by the riverbank to enjoy fresh tropical fruits—mangoes, dragon fruit, and bananas—recharging you with nature’s sweetness.
12:00 PM (Lunch): We are welcomed into a traditional wooden stilt house of the Tay minority. Lunch is a cultural immersion, featuring "cơm lam" (bamboo-tube rice), grilled lake fish caught that morning, and bamboo shoots fresh from the forest.
13:30 PM (Afternoon): Time to get the blood pumping. We cycle on narrow, shaded paths that snake through the core zone of the National Park. The route to Dau Dang Waterfall is a sensory delight: the sound of tires on gravel, the chirping of insects, and the roar of water growing louder as we approach the cascading falls.
16:00 PM: Return to the lodge. The late afternoon is yours. Kayak solo on the glassy water, take a swim, or simply sit on your balcony with a cold beer, watching the smoke rise from village kitchens.
Cycling Distance: 25 km + Boat Trip | Total Distance: ~30 km | Difficulty: Easy/Moderate.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Accommodation: Saigon Ba Be Resort ****
08:00 AM (Morning): Fuel up with a hearty breakfast; today, we climb. We transfer out of the park to the base of the Phia Den Pass.
09:30 AM: The challenge begins. The road coils upward like a snake into the clouds. As you ascend, the temperature drops and the vegetation shifts to cool temperate forests. You will pass the hauntingly beautiful Tinh Tuc tin mine, a silent relic of the French colonial era, standing frozen in time against the mist.
12:30 PM (Lunch): A scenic picnic lunch awaits at the summit area, where you can gaze down at the valleys you’ve just conquered.
14:00 PM (Afternoon): The Great Descent! This is the cyclist’s reward. For kilometers, you will coast down winding roads, the wind rushing past you ears. The scenery transforms rapidly from high mountains to the bustling river valleys of the Nung people.
16:30 PM: We roll into Cao Bang City, a vibrant frontier town. Check into your comfortable hotel and wash off the day’s dust. In the evening, we can stroll along the Bang Giang River bridge and explore the local night market.
Cycling Distance: 65 km | Total Distance: ~140 km | Terrain: 1 Major Pass + Rolling Hills | Difficulty: Challenging.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Accommodation: Muong Thanh Hotel ****
08:00 AM (Morning): We set our compass East, towards the Chinese border. The route through Quang Uyen is a geologist's dream, with distinctive "sugar-loaf" mountains popping up from the earth.
10:00 AM: The sound of metal striking metal guides us to Phuc Sen Village. This village of the Nung An people has been forging tools for centuries. You’ll witness artisans hammering red-hot steel with bare hands and primitive tools—a mesmerizing display of skill and tradition.
12:30 PM (Lunch): We dine in Quang Uyen town, tasting local dishes that blend Vietnamese and Chinese influences.
14:00 PM (Afternoon): The ride continues through breathtaking karst valleys. Every turn offers a new postcard-perfect view.
16:00 PM: The Grand Finale. A distant roar announces our arrival at Ban Gioc Waterfall. As we approach, the sight of water thundering down three tiers amidst lush greenery is overwhelming. We arrive at the perfect time when the afternoon sun creates rainbows in the mist. Check into our luxury resort within earshot of the falls.
Cycling Distance: 55 km | Total Distance: ~90 km | Terrain: Mixed Rolling | Difficulty: Moderate.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Accommodation: Saigon Ban Doc Resort ****
08:30 AM (Morning): No need to rush. After a lazy breakfast, we take a short, scenic loop through emerald rice paddies flanked by limestone towers to Nguom Ngao Cave.
10:00 AM: Step into the underworld. Nguom Ngao is one of the most spectacular caves in Vietnam, yet surprisingly uncrowded. You will walk through kilometers of sparkling stalactites, underground streams, and vast caverns that feel like a subterranean palace.
12:30 PM (Lunch): A leisurely lunch is served at the resort restaurant, offering stunning views of the Quay Son River.
14:00 PM (Afternoon): Recovery & Wellness. This afternoon is a gift for your muscles. You can swim in the jade-blue waters of the river right at the resort, take a bamboo raft to get sprayed by the waterfall’s mist, or simply read a book by the pool.
16:00 PM: For the restless, an optional ride to a nearby ancient stone village of the Tay people is available, where houses are built entirely of stone—walls, fences, and even roofs.
Cycling Distance: 20 km | Total Distance: ~25 km | Terrain: Flat | Difficulty: Easy (Recovery Day).
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Saigon Ban Doc Resort ****
08:00 AM (Morning): We saddle up to trace history along the Chinese border heading towards Pac Bo. This route is less traveled, offering peace and pristine nature.
10:30 AM: Coffee by the Turquoise Creek: We pause beside the Lenin Stream, famous for its unreal, translucent turquoise water. You can see every pebble at the bottom. We visit the humble cave where Ho Chi Minh lived in 1941, a site of deep historical significance amidst serene nature.
12:30 PM (Lunch): Enjoy a rustic local lunch near the historic site.
14:00 PM (Afternoon): We cycle along Provincial Road 203 back towards Cao Bang. The road is paved and quiet, flanked by vertical limestone walls that seem to scrape the sky. It’s a meditative ride where you can truly connect with the rhythm of your pedaling.
16:30 PM: Return to Cao Bang City. Free time to get a foot massage to prepare for the big days ahead or enjoy a coffee watching the city life.
Cycling Distance: 45 km | Total Distance: ~150 km | Terrain: Rolling | Difficulty: Moderate.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Accommodation: Muong Thanh Hotel ****
08:00 AM (Morning): We leave civilization behind. The ride to Bao Lac takes us deep into the wild Northeast along the Gam River. This is the frontier.
12:00 PM (Lunch): We stop for a picnic lunch at a scenic lookout point, surrounded by nothing but mountains and sky.
13:30 PM (Afternoon): The landscape transforms dramatically. We cycle through the territory of the Black Lo Lo people, known for their vibrant cultural attire. You will see fewer trucks and more water buffaloes. The afternoon light hitting the deep river valley creates a cinematic atmosphere.
16:30 PM: We roll into the small, dusty mountain town of Bao Lac. It feels like a trading post at the edge of the world. Check into your hotel and enjoy a cold drink by the river as twilight falls.
Cycling Distance: 75 km | Total Distance: ~120 km | Terrain: Long Rolling Hills | Difficulty: Moderate/Hard.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Accommodation: Duc Tai Hotel ** or Similar
08:00 AM (Morning): Tighten your helmet straps; today is a legend in the making. We approach the base of the feared and revered Khau Coc Cha Pass.
10:00 AM: The Climb. Look up, and you will see the road carved into the cliff face in 14 distinct vertical tiers. It is daunting, steep, and absolutely glorious. Conquering this pass is a badge of honor for any cyclist. (Our support van is always right behind you if you need a lift!).
12:30 PM (Lunch): A well-deserved lunch awaits at the summit or in a nearby valley, where the air is thin and fresh.
14:00 PM (Afternoon): We enter the Dong Van Karst Plateau. The terrain becomes rugged, resembling a "moonscape" with endless gray rocks. We cycle gently into Meo Vac.
16:00 PM: Check-in at "Auberge de Meo Vac," a restored Hmong fortress with thick earthen walls and yin-yang tile roofs. Staying here is like sleeping in a living museum.
Cycling Distance: 50 km | Total Distance: ~75 km | Terrain: Steep Climbing | Difficulty: Hard (Grade A Adventure).
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hoa Cuong Meo Vac Hotel ***
08:00 AM (Morning): If yesterday was the appetizer, today is the main course. We tackle the Ma Pi Leng Pass—the "King of Passes" in Vietnam.
10:00 AM: Sky Coffee: We stop at the famous Panorama point. To your left, vertical cliffs shoot up to the sky; to your right, a sheer drop of 800 meters down to the emerald Nho Que River. You are cycling in the clouds.
12:00 PM (Lunch): Arrive in Dong Van town for lunch, a charming stone plateau town.
13:30 PM (Afternoon): We cycle to nearby villages to marvel at the ancient clay houses and stone fences of the Hmong people. The resilience of life here, blooming from the rocks, is inspiring.
15:30 PM: Explore the Dong Van Old Quarter, wandering through lantern-lit streets, visiting the ancient market, and perhaps trying a cup of buckwheat coffee.
Cycling Distance: 25 km | Total Distance: ~30 km | Terrain: High Mountain Pass | Difficulty: Moderate (Short but spectacular).
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Accommodation: Hoa Cuong Dong Van Hotel ***
08:00 AM (Morning): History comes alive. We cycle to the Vuong Family Mansion (The Hmong King's Palace). Hidden in a valley of pine trees, this masterpiece of wood and stone was built from opium trade wealth in the early 20th century.
10:30 AM: Leaving the rocky plateau, we climb slightly to a pass before beginning a long, sweeping descent.
12:30 PM (Lunch): We enjoy local specialties in a small village nestled in the valley.
14:00 PM (Afternoon): The landscape softens into the dreamy pine forests of Yen Minh. The air smells of resin and wildflowers, reminiscent of the Alps but with a distinct Asian soul. We enjoy a cruising ride into the valley town.
16:30 PM: Arrive in Yen Minh. Relax at your hotel and watch the sunset over the rice fields.
Cycling Distance: 60 km | Total Distance: ~60 km | Terrain: Mixed Descent & Climbs | Difficulty: Moderate.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Accommodation: Yen Minh Hotel *** or Similar
08:00 AM (Morning): One last major ascent stands between us and the lowlands. We climb towards Quan Ba Heaven’s Gate.
10:30 AM: Reach the summit. From here, the view opens up to reveal the Twin Mountains (Fairy Bosom Hills), perfectly shaped mounds that are the subject of many local legends.
12:30 PM (Lunch): Lunch at Tam Son town with breathtaking views of the valley below.
14:00 PM (Afternoon): The Thrill of Speed! The rest of the day is a pure reward—a 20km exhilarating downhill ride all the way along the Lo River into Ha Giang City. It’s an hour of speed, wind, and freedom that you’ll wish would never end.
16:30 PM: Check-in to a comfortable riverside resort in Ha Giang City. Celebrate the completion of the "Ha Giang Loop."
Cycling Distance: 50 km | Total Distance: ~100 km | Terrain: Climb then Long Descent | Difficulty: Moderate.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Wings Ha Giang Loop Bungalow ***
08:00 AM (Morning): We transfer by van for the first leg to save your legs for the pièce de résistance.
10:30 AM: We start cycling heading West to Hoang Su Phi, a National Heritage site. Unlike the tourist-heavy Sapa, this region remains untouched, quiet, and authentically beautiful.
12:30 PM (Lunch): A picnic lunch surrounded by the soundtrack of nature and the sight of endless green.
14:00 PM (Afternoon): The final 40km into the lodge is a journey through a painting. Infinite layers of rice terraces carve the mountains into golden sculptures (in harvest season) or shimmering mirrors (in water season). The afternoon sun makes the paddy fields glow.
16:30 PM: We check into Nam Hong Village Eco-Lodge. Nestled deep in the jungle, this is a sanctuary of bamboo bungalows and organic gardens where you can disconnect from the world.
Cycling Distance: 40 km | Total Distance: ~110 km | Terrain: Rolling Backroads | Difficulty: Moderate.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Accommodation: Nam Hong Ecolodge ***
08:00 AM (Morning): A day for the soul. Put the bike aside (or take a very short leisure ride). We trek gently through the tea plantations to meet the Red Dao people.
10:30 AM: We visit ancient Shan Tuyet tea forests, with trees hundreds of years old covered in white moss. You will learn how to pick and process tea by hand.
12:30 PM (Lunch): A healthy, organic lunch served at the lodge using ingredients from their own garden.
14:00 PM (Afternoon): Ultimate Wellness. Immerse yourself in a traditional Red Dao herbal bath. This is a secret blend of forest leaves and bark, boiled in a wooden tub, known to soothe every muscle in your body and rejuvenate the spirit after 12 days of riding.
18:30 PM: Farewell Dinner. We gather for a feast to toast to the kilometers conquered, the mountains climbed, and the memories made.
Light Trekking | Total Distance: ~10 km | Difficulty: Relaxing.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Celebration Dinner.
Accommodation: Nam Hong Ecolodge ***
8:00 AM (Morning): Enjoy a lazy breakfast surrounded by the sounds of the jungle. Breathe in the pure mountain air one last time.
09:30 AM: Check out and begin the transfer back to Hanoi.
12:30 PM (Lunch): Stop for a final group lunch at a local restaurant on the way.
14:00 PM (Afternoon): Continue the drive back. Use this time to scroll through your photos, nap, or chat with new friends about the next adventure.
17:00 PM: Arrive at your hotel in Hanoi. The Odyssey concludes, but the legend of your journey begins.
Cycling Distance: None | Total Distance: ~300 km | Terrain: Highway transfer.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.
Accommodation: N/V
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.
Cycling through Northern Vietnam with Golden Trail Travel was much more than a physical challenge; it was a deep cultural journey. The scenery in Ha Giang and Hoang Su Phi was breathtaking, and the village visits gave us a real connection to local life. I finished the tour with unforgettable memories and would gladly travel with Golden Trail Travel again.
The 14-day cycling tour organized by Golden Trail Travel was extremely well planned and professionally operated. Every detail, from accommodation to meals and daily routes, was carefully arranged. The guides were friendly, experienced, and very attentive. This tour sets a high standard for cycling holidays in Vietnam.