Legendary Ho Chi Minh Trail Cycling Tour: Da Nang to Hanoi 12 Days

Our Contacts

Address

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

Email

info@goldentrailtravel.com

Phone

+84(832) - 126 - 699

Legendary Ho Chi Minh Trail Cycling Tour: Da Nang to Hanoi 12 Days

CODE: GDT2801

Private Tour

Duration: 8 - 12 days

Price from: Contact

Route: Vietnam - Cuc Phuong National Park - Ninh Binh - Da Nang - Hue - Quang Binh - Phong NHa

Overview

Imagine cycling through towering limestone mountains, traversing deep ancient jungles along the Lao border, and touching the history of one of the 20th century's greatest military feats.

This 12-day journey from Da Nang to Hanoi is more than just a bike tour; it is an expedition back in time. You will conquer the Hai Van Pass (made famous by Top Gear), hear the echoes of history at Khe Sanh, marvel at the surreal beauty of Phong Nha Caves, and lose yourself in the watercolor landscapes of Tam Coc. Leaving the bustle of city life behind, this tour offers a profound connection with Vietnam's raw nature and its resilient, welcoming people.

Highlight

Conquer Hai Van Pass: Ride one of the world's most scenic coastal roads, with sweeping views of the East Sea.
Imperial Hue: Explore the Forbidden City and Royal Tombs of the last feudal dynasty in Vietnam.
The Ho Chi Minh Trail: Experience the legendary West Branch – a cyclist’s dream road winding through remote jungles and mountains.
Living History: Visit iconic Vietnam War sites including Khe Sanh Combat Base, Dakrong Bridge, and the DMZ area.
World Heritage Wonders: Discover the magnificent caves of Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park.
Halong Bay on Land: Cycle through the stunning limestone karsts of Tam Coc and the primal forests of Cuc Phuong National Park.

IMPORTANT NOTES

Timing: The times listed below are approximate and subject to change based on the group's cycling pace, weather conditions, and traffic.
Support Vehicle: Our van is always behind the group. You can hop on the van at any time if you feel tired or wish to skip a difficult section.
Snacks: We provide water, electrolytes, seasonal tropical fruits (bananas, mangoes, watermelon), and energy biscuits at every rest stop.

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:
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.

Inclusion

Exclusion

Itinerary

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Day 1: Da Nang – Hai Van Pass – Hue

Cycling Distance: ~100 km
Difficulty: Challenging (Climbing Hai Van Pass)
Elevation Gain: ~600m
Meals: B/ L
Accommodation: Cosiana Hue Hotel (3 Star Hotel)
07:30: Meet up at the hotel lobby in Da Nang. Our guide will provide a comprehensive briefing on safety protocols, hand signals, and ensure a perfect bike fit for every rider.
08:00: We kick off the journey with a scenic warm-up ride along the curve of Da Nang Bay. The fresh morning sea breeze and the sight of local fishermen casting their nets set a peaceful tone before the challenge ahead.
09:30: The real adventure begins as we start the ascent of Hai Van Pass (Ocean Cloud Pass). As featured in Top Gear, this is one of the world's most spectacular coastal roads. You will pedal through winding curves, with the lush jungle on one side and the sparkling East Sea on the other.
10:30 – 11:00: Morning Snack & Coffee break at the summit. Stand on top of the old bunkers, breathing in the cool mountain air and taking in the breathtaking panoramic view where the mountains meet the sea.
12:30: Enjoy a thrilling 10km descent down to Lang Co Bay. We stop for a well-deserved Lunch at a floating restaurant on the lagoon, feasting on fresh seafood caught just hours ago.
14:00: The afternoon ride takes us over two smaller passes, Phuoc Tuong and Phu Gia. We then veer off the highway onto quiet coastal roads, cycling through charming fishing villages and vast shrimp farms.
15:30: Afternoon Snack (fresh tropical fruits) by the roadside near Tam Giang Lagoon – the largest lagoon system in Southeast Asia. The late afternoon sun reflecting off the water creates a magical photo opportunity.
17:00: Arrival in Hue City, the former Imperial Capital. Check-in to your comfortable hotel and relax your muscles.
19:00: Welcome Dinner in Hue featuring delicate royal cuisine.

Day 2: Hue City Cultural Discovery

Cycling Distance: ~30 km
Difficulty: Easy / Leisurely
Meals: B/ L
Accommodation: Cosiana Hue Hotel (3 Star Hotel)
08:00: After breakfast, we embark on a leisurely ride along the poetic Perfume River. The morning mist over the river creates a mysterious and romantic atmosphere.
09:30: Visit the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, the oldest religious structure in Hue. Morning Snack stop to enjoy a glass of freshly pressed sugar cane juice under the shade of ancient trees.
10:30: Immerse yourself in history at the Imperial Citadel (The Forbidden City). We park the bikes and walk through the majestic gates, exploring the palaces where the Nguyen Emperors once ruled.
12:00: Lunch is a culinary adventure featuring Hue’s famous specialties: Bun Bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup) and delicate steamed rice cakes (Banh Beo, Banh Nam).
14:00: We cycle through quiet backstreets to the tomb of Emperor Tu Duc, a masterpiece of architecture blended with nature. On the way back, we stop at Thuy Xuan Incense Village, a dazzling display of colorful incense sticks perfect for Instagram.
15:30: Afternoon Tea/Snack at a traditional Garden House (Nha Vuon), learning about the Feng Shui lifestyle of Hue's aristocracy.
16:30: Return to the hotel. The rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy a foot massage or shop at Dong Ba Market.

Day 3: Hue – A Luoi (Ascending the Mountains)

Cycling Distance: ~70 km
Difficulty: Hard (Significant climbing)
Elevation Gain: ~900m
Meals: B/ L/ D
Accommodation: Hue Crown A Luoi Retreat (3 Star Hotel)
07:30: We depart early to beat the heat. Leaving the flat coastal plains of Hue, we head west on Route 49 towards the majestic Truong Son Mountain Range.
09:30: Morning Snack stop after the first 20km warm-up. The landscape begins to change dramatically from rice paddies to dense green forests.
12:00: Picnic Lunch or a simple local meal at a mountain eatery. Refuel with carbs for the climbs ahead.
13:30: Prepare your legs for the challenge! We conquer a series of steep passes, including Mo Qua and A Co Pass. As you climb higher, the air becomes cooler and crisper. You are entering the territory of the Pa Co and Ta Oi ethnic minorities.
15:00: Afternoon Snack at the top of the pass. The view looking back at the winding road you just conquered is incredibly rewarding.
16:30: Roll into the quiet mountain town of A Luoi. This area was once a fierce battleground (famous for Hamburger Hill), but today it is a peaceful valley surrounded by misty peaks.
18:30: Dinner with local mountain specialties, perhaps trying "Com Lam" (bamboo-tube rice).

Day 4: A Luoi – Dakrong Bridge – Khe Sanh

Cycling Distance: ~75 km
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard (Rolling hills)
Meals: B/ L/ D
Accommodation: Khanh Phuong Luxury Hotel (2 Star Hotel with best in town)
07:00: Breakfast with strong local coffee. We start cycling on the historic Ho Chi Minh Trail (West Branch).
09:30: Morning Snack by a bubbling mountain stream. This section of the trail is a cyclist's dream: smooth tarmac, zero traffic, and absolute silence interrupted only by the sounds of the jungle. You are cycling right along the Lao border.
12:00: Lunch at a local restaurant near the intersection of the trail.
13:30: Visit the legendary Dakrong Bridge, a strategic supply point during the war, standing proudly over the emerald green Dakrong River. The ride continues through scenic valleys towards Khe Sanh.
15:00: Afternoon Snack (coffee break) at a vantage point overlooking the coffee plantations. Khe Sanh is famous for its Arabica coffee beans.
16:30: Arrive at the hotel in Khe Sanh. The town has a unique "wild west" feel, perched high on a plateau.
18:30: Group Dinner and rest.

Day 5: Khe Sanh Historical Loop

Cycling Distance: ~40 km
Difficulty: Easy / Rolling terrain
Meals: B/ L/ D
Accommodation: Khanh Phuong Luxury Hotel (2 Star Hotel with best in town)
08:30: A more relaxed start today. We cycle a short distance to the Khe Sanh Combat Base (Ta Con Airport).
10:00: Morning Snack on the old airstrip. We spend time exploring the museum, seeing the captured tanks, aircraft, and walking through the recreated bunkers. It’s a somber but fascinating lesson in history.
12:00: Lunch back in Khe Sanh town.
14:00: For those with energy left, we cycle to the Lao Bao International Border Gate to take a photo at the border marker, or visit the Lang Vay Special Forces Camp ruins.
15:30: Afternoon Snack. We return to the hotel early. This rest is crucial because tomorrow is the toughest day of the tour.
17:00: Free time to explore the local market or get a massage.

Day 6: Khe Sanh – Phong Nha (The King Stage)

Cycling Distance: ~90 - 100 km (Total distance is 220km, simplified with van transfer)
Difficulty: Very Hard (Remote, steep climbs)
Meals: B/ L/ D
Accommodation: Phong Nha Escape Bungalow (3 Star Hotel)
06:30: Early Breakfast & Departure. Today is the "King Stage" – the most remote and spectacular day of the entire trip.
09:00: Morning Snack deep in the jungle. We are riding on the Western Ho Chi Minh Trail through the heart of Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park.
11:30: A special Picnic Lunch prepared by our support team. We eat by the roadside surrounded by ancient limestone karsts and primary rainforest. There are no villages, no shops, just pure nature for over 100km.
13:30: We continue the ride. The terrain is a rollercoaster of steep climbs and thrilling descents. Our support van is always close by for anyone who needs a lift on the toughest uphill sections.
15:30: Afternoon Snack at the park boundary. As we descend towards the lowlands, the spectacular limestone formations of Phong Nha begin to tower over the horizon.
17:30: Arrive at Son Trach (Phong Nha town). The feeling of accomplishment completing this leg is unmatched. Celebration beer by the Son River!
19:00: Dinner and a deep sleep.

Day 7: Phong Nha – Huong Khe

Cycling Distance: ~80 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Meals: B/ L/ D
Accommodation: Duc Tai 2 Hotel (2 Star Hotel with Best in Town)
08:00: We trade our bikes for a boat this morning. A dragon boat takes us up the Son River to explore Phong Nha Cave. Inside, we marvel at the spectacular illuminated stalactites and the underground river.
11:00: Back on the bikes, we head north on the Ho Chi Minh Highway towards Ha Tinh province.
12:30: Lunch at a local restaurant serving rustic countryside dishes.
15:00: Afternoon Snack amidst endless green tea plantations. The landscape softens into rolling hills and agricultural land.
16:30: Arrive at the hotel in Huong Khe, a quiet district town.

Day 8: Huong Khe – Tan Ky (The Km 0 Landmark)

Cycling Distance: ~90 km
Difficulty: Moderate / Flat to Rolling
Meals: B/ L/ D
Accommodation: KM0 Hotel (2 Star Hotel with Best in Town)
07:30: Depart Huong Khe. We cycle through a region known as the "pan of fire" during the war due to heavy bombing.
09:30: Stop to visit the Dong Loc Junction historic site. We pay our respects to the 10 young female volunteers who sacrificed their lives here. Morning Snack nearby.
12:30: Lunch at a roadside restaurant.
15:30: Afternoon Snack as we enter Nghe An province. The roads here are wide, smooth, and lined with trees.
16:30: Arrive in Tan Ky. We visit the Km 0 Landmark – the official starting point of the original motorized Ho Chi Minh Trail. It’s a significant milestone in our journey north.

Day 9: Tan Ky – Ben Sung (Rural North Central Coast)

Cycling Distance: ~85 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Meals: B/ L/ D
Accommodation: KM0 Hotel (2 Star Hotel with Best in Town)
07:30: We leave the historic trail markers behind and cycle deeper into the rural heartland of Vietnam. The route passes through vast rubber plantations and fields of sugar cane.
10:00: Morning Snack at a bustling local market. It’s a great chance to interact with locals who rarely see tourists.
12:30: Lunch in Thai Hoa town.
15:00: Afternoon Snack by the peaceful countryside fields of Thanh Hoa province. You'll see water buffaloes grazing and farmers tending to their crops – a timeless image of Vietnam.
16:30: Arrive at Ben Sung (Nhu Xuan District). We check into a local guesthouse, experiencing the authentic life of a small northern town.

Day 10: Ben Sung – Cuc Phuong National Park

Cycling Distance: ~80 km
Difficulty: Moderate (Final 20km is undulating jungle road)
Meals: B/ L/ D
Accommodation: Cuc Phuong National Park Hotel (2 Star Hotel)
07:30: We depart for the final mountain stage. The morning ride is on the Ho Chi Minh highway before we turn off onto smaller village roads.
10:00: Morning Snack in a Muong ethnic village.
12:30: Lunch near the entrance of Cuc Phuong National Park, Vietnam's oldest national park.
14:00: The highlight of the day: cycling the final 20km through the dense, cool rainforest core of Cuc Phuong. The canopy overhead blocks the sun, creating a green tunnel. Listen for the calls of gibbons and rare birds.
15:30: Afternoon Snack at the park center (Bong Sub-station).
16:30: Check-in at the park's bungalow or a resort nestled in the buffer zone. Enjoy the sounds of the jungle at night.

Day 11: Cuc Phuong – Tam Coc (Dry Halong Bay)

Cycling Distance: ~50 km
Difficulty: Easy / Flat
Meals: B/ L/ D
Accommodation: Lotus Hotel (3 Star Hotel)
08:00: We cycle out of the forest, heading towards the stunning limestone karst landscapes of Ninh Binh.
10:00: Morning Snack and a visit to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital. We explore the 10th-century temples dedicated to King Dinh and King Le.
12:00: Lunch featuring Ninh Binh’s famous goat meat and crispy rice (Com Chay).
14:00: A relaxing change of pace. We board small sampan boats rowed by locals for a 2-hour trip through the caves and waterways of Tam Coc or Trang An. This area is known as "Halong Bay on land" for its breathtaking beauty.
16:30: A short, scenic ride through the rice paddies brings us to our hotel in Tam Coc.
18:30: Farewell Dinner to celebrate the near-completion of our epic journey.

Day 12: Tam Coc – Van Long – Hanoi

Cycling Distance: ~40 km
Difficulty: Very Easy (Flat dyke roads)
Meals: B/ L/
08:00: The final ride! We cycle along the dykes surrounding Van Long Nature Reserve. The water is mirror-flat, reflecting the limestone peaks. Keep an eye out for the endangered Delacour's Langur on the cliffs.
10:00: Morning Snack and final group photos against the stunning backdrop of the "Skull Island" movie set location.
12:00: Final Lunch at a local restaurant. We share stories and toast to our success.
13:30: We load the bikes onto the Support Van and board the bus for the transfer to Hanoi.
16:00 – 16:30: Drop off at your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter. We say our goodbyes, leaving you with memories of a lifetime on the legendary Ho Chi Minh Trail.

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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