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Northern Vietnam Bike Trip Sapa, Bac Ha, Si Ma Cai 5 Days

  • CODE: GDT383
  • Private Tour
  • Duration: 5 - 7 days
  • Price from: Contact
  • Route: Vietnam - Yen Bai - Sa Pa - Lao Cai - Bac Ha

Overview

Embark on an exhilarating and culturally rich Northern Vietnam Bike Trip, a captivating 5-day journey designed for passionate adventurers eager to explore the dramatic landscapes and vibrant ethnic tapestry of Vietnam's stunning northern highlands. This meticulously crafted itinerary offers a perfect blend of challenging cycling, profound cultural immersion, and breathtaking natural beauty, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an authentic and active exploration of this captivating region, particularly its famous markets and diverse communities.

Your adventure begins in the iconic mountain town of Sapa, renowned for its awe-inspiring terraced rice fields that cascade down steep hillsides like giant, emerald staircases. You'll spend your initial days cycling through these magnificent agricultural wonders, gaining an intimate perspective that only a bicycle can offer. The fresh mountain air and panoramic vistas of towering peaks provide a truly invigorating start, allowing you to absorb the serene beauty and rich agricultural heritage of Sapa's famous valleys, such as Muong Hoa. You'll also have the opportunity to visit various ethnic minority villages surrounding Sapa, like those of the Black H'mong or Red Dzao, witnessing their traditional way of life.

As you continue your 5-day Vietnam cycling expedition, the journey will lead you deeper into the more remote and culturally vibrant areas towards Bac Ha and Si Ma Cai. This segment of the trip is truly special, as it focuses on exploring the less-frequented regions where ethnic minority traditions thrive. You'll navigate winding roads through stunning valleys, past charming villages, and alongside picturesque rivers. The cycling routes are carefully selected to showcase the most beautiful vistas while offering a rewarding challenge, with invigorating climbs and thrilling descents that offer unparalleled panoramic views. Expect varied terrain, from paved roads to more adventurous dirt paths, catering to cyclists with a good level of fitness and a thirst for adventure.

A significant highlight of this journey is the unparalleled opportunity for cultural immersion at the vibrant ethnic markets of Bac Ha and Si Ma Cai (or a similar local market depending on the exact day of the week). These markets are not merely places of commerce; they are social hubs where diverse ethnic groups, including the Flower H'mong, Phu La, Dao, Tay, and Nung, gather in their magnificent traditional attire to trade goods, socialize, and preserve their age-old traditions. Witnessing this kaleidoscope of colors and cultures firsthand is an unforgettable experience. Your experienced local guide will facilitate respectful interactions, allowing you to learn about their livelihoods, sample unique local produce, and gain a profound understanding of their resilient spirit and rich cultural heritage. A special part of this tour often includes a comfortable homestay Vietnam experience in a local village, offering an authentic glimpse into daily life and the warm hospitality of your hosts.

This Northern Vietnam bike trip with Golden Trail Travel is more than just an active vacation; it's an immersive exploration, a cultural odyssey, and a true adventure for the senses, leaving you with a profound appreciation for Vietnam's breathtaking beauty and its warm, welcoming people. You'll return refreshed, invigorated, and with a collection of unforgettable memories from the heart of the Vietnamese highlands and its vibrant markets.

Trip Map

Highlight

  • Iconic Sapa Terraced Rice Fields Cycling: Begin your adventure by cycling through the world-renowned, cascading terraced rice fields of Sapa, offering incredible photographic opportunities and a deep connection to local agriculture.

  • Vibrant Ethnic Market Exploration (Bac Ha/Si Ma Cai): Immerse yourself in the bustling and colorful atmosphere of a major ethnic market (like Bac Ha or Si Ma Cai, depending on the day), where various minority groups gather in traditional attire to trade and socialize.

  • Authentic Ethnic Minority Village Encounters: Cycle through and interact with numerous traditional villages of diverse ethnic groups (Flower H'mong, Phu La, Dao, Tay, Nung, etc.), gaining direct insights into their unique cultures, customs, and daily lives.

  • Genuine Homestay Experience: Enjoy authentic cultural immersion with an overnight stay in a traditional stilt house with a local family, sharing meals and experiencing their warm hospitality firsthand.

  • Challenging & Rewarding Mountain Cycling: Conquer scenic mountain passes and navigate winding roads through dramatic landscapes, offering exhilarating climbs, thrilling descents, and panoramic views.

  • Diverse Scenery & Terrain: Cycle through a mix of landscapes, from Sapa's valleys to the more remote and rugged terrain leading to Bac Ha and Si Ma Cai, featuring both paved roads and adventurous dirt trails.

  • Cultural Exchange & Learning: Your experienced local guide will provide valuable insights into the history, traditions, and daily lives of the people you encounter, enhancing your understanding of the region.

  • Breathtaking Scenery & Photography: Be constantly surrounded by majestic mountains, verdant valleys, and picturesque villages, offering endless chances for stunning photography.

  • Delicious Local Cuisine: Savor authentic Vietnamese and regional dishes, including specialties sampled at local markets and prepared by your homestay hosts, enriching your overall sensory experience.

  • Physical Challenge & Accomplishment: This tour provides a significant physical challenge suitable for cyclists with a good level of fitness, rewarding you with an immense sense of accomplishment.

  • Comprehensive Support: Travel with peace of mind knowing you have dedicated support vehicles, luggage transfers, and expert guides ensuring your safety and comfort throughout the journey.

  • Off-the-Beaten-Path Exploration: Discover remote and less-visited areas, particularly around Bac Ha and Si Ma Cai, providing a truly authentic and unique travel experience away from mass tourism.

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: Lao Cai – Sapa.
Arrive Lao Cai early this morning. You will be greeted by Vietnam Cycling team and transferred uphill to Sapa. Breakfast will be provided in a local restaurant in town. Enjoy a day biking through the Sapa valley. At first on a paved road for 7km, but then on single-track paths gradually ascend to the H’mong village of Sa Seng and then onto Hang. Then bike fast on high elevation for an hour before descend along a narrow single dirt track to the heart of Muong Hoa Valley. Get to the center of Hau Thao Commune in mid afternoon. You will be picked up by our car for a 20 minutes road transfer back to Sapa. Dinner and overnight in Sapa.
Day 2: Sapa – Lao Cai.
Begin the ride directly from Sapa and straight away flying along on a 6 kilometer stretch of single-track which gets through villages and paddy fields. Then a quiet country lane leads to another long section of single-track, at first involving a challenging climb and then a fast flowing downhill to join a remote jeep track. The jeep track climbs gently at first, but then provides an enormous, fast descent of over 1500 meters, before hitting tarmac for the final 30 kilometer stretch to Lao Cai City. This final 30 kilometer road section is a lot of fun as there is the opportunity for engaging conversation and sign language with curious locals! This is a long and challenging day with around 8 hours on the trail. Dinner and overnight in Laocai.
Day 3: Lao Cai – Bac Ha.
After breakfast, load all the bikes onto support vehicles for a 45-minute transfer to the small village of Phong Nien. The riding begins on a good hard pack track along the side of a quiet road. Climbing gently for the first 10 kilometers, we will be able to watch the local villagers working in the fields, dressed in their traditional costumes. We then descend steeply for another 7 kilometers to a small village and footbridge that crosses the Song Chay River. Here, we board one of the traditional Vietnamese longboats and transfer for half an hour along a stunning Yangtse style river ride to a Tay village of Trung Do and lunch at a local home. The afternoon ride featured with a tough alpine switchback road that climbs 1000 meters over 17 kilometers, before a final 5 kilometer descent into the highland market town of Bac Ha. Check in the Sao Mai Hotel and the rest of the afternoon is at leisure.
Day 4: Bac Ha – Si Ma Cai.
Breakfast and then bike straightly from Bac Ha. The first 12 kilometers on tarmac is a steady climb of 650 meters to a pass (1508m.), followed by a single dirt track through an untouched region over 16 km kilometers into Can Cau village. Lunch break in a Flower H’mong homes. In the afternoon, we will take an ascend for nearly 2 hours along another single track from Can Cau to Quan Than San Commune, then follow a single path for 14 km slightly downhill to Si Ma Cai town, situated among mountains and hills near the Chinese border. Dinner and overnight in a simple hotel in Simakai.
Day 5: Si Ma Kai – Lao Cai – Hanoi.
Breakfast and load all bikes and luggage on the support vehicle for 20km transfer Ta Gia Khau Commune. Then biking along a newly build tarmac which runs along a branch of the Chay River for 52km with three ascending and descending. It is great challenge but support vehicle always follow the group to support at any time. Arriving to Muong Khuong Town in mid afternoon, load bikes on supporting van and transfer 55km to Lao Cai. Freshen up, relax and dinner before boarding the night train for Hanoi. Northern Vietnam Bike Trip Sapa Bac Ha Si Ma Cai 5 Days is completed.

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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