HA NOI - MAI CHAU - SON LA - DIEN BIEN PHU -  LAI CHAU - PHONG THO - SA PA

Discover Viet Nam’s rugged mountains in the north-west region and visit its minority villages by bicycle. The “Northern Biking” experience is great as you can comfortably achieve the best out of what this part of the country can offer. Along the way we encounter the most colourful hill tribe people, dramatic landscapes and sweeping panoramas. Highlights are the terraced valleys of Sa Pa and the historic battlefields of Dien Bien Phu.

DAY 1               ARRIVE HA NOI

On arrival at Noi Bai Airport, we will be met and transferred to our hotel. After a welcome drink and tour briefing, we enjoy a performance of Viet Nam’s unique traditional Water Puppetry.

DAY 2               HA NOI - MAI CHAU

In the morning, we are transferred our of Ha Noi’s to the Xuan Mai Town, where we hop off the bus, get on our bike and start cycling along the Highway 6 to Hoa Binh and Mai Chau through spectacular limestone mountains scenery of the Truong Son range.

DAY 3               MAI CHAU - SON LA

Today we set off for Van village deep in the heart of the Mai Chau Valley before heading north to Son La. Located in a scenic valley, inhabited by Thai, Muong and H'mong minority people, once was important for its involvement in the struggle for independence in early 1900s.

DAY 4               SON LA - DIEN BIEN PHU

Leaving Son La, we cycle and bus about 150km to Dien Bien Phu, a town of exotic natural beauty. It lies in the 20km long Muong Thanh valley, which is surrounded by mountains and forests providing this small town with a spectacular view.

DAY 5               DIEN BIEN PHU

We set out on our bikes to explore this region once was famous world-wide for its final victory which ended the French colonial rule in Indochina. We also see the Commander De Catries head-quarter bunker and hill Eliane 2, a scene of particularly bitter fighting before it was overrun at the end of the battle.

DAY 6               DIEN BIEN PHU - LAI CHAU

Departing Dien Bien Phu in the morning, we cycle along the windy roads that snake trough the beautiful countryside and characterize this part of the country.  At times the roads are steep but the stunning panoramas make the trip well worth it.

DAY 7               LAI CHAU - PHONG THO

Today we cycle through more superb mountainous countryside en route to Phong Tho. This is the famous place to stop over for some visits to the hill tribe villages, market as well as to experience the unspoiled nature beauty of the rugged mountains.

DAY 8               PHONG THO - SA PA

Continuing on our journey through the scenic hills and valleys, we stop at To Binh Lu market town and discover its bust with trading activities as the hill tribes gather for their market day. After a short break, we complete our long cycling day upon arriving Sa Pa. 

DAY 9               SA PA

Full day is spent visiting some of Sa Pa’s most colourful and interesting sights including the beautiful Ham Rong Mountain, Cat Cat, Lao Chai and Ta Van villages. We also wander through the town market full of local hill tribe people. the Red Dao village of Ta Phin.

DAY 10             SA PA - HA NOI

Leaving Sa Pa, we take a long drive day to Ha Noi with stops on the way and take in more spectacular scenery of the north. There are also opportunities for us to see some markets where we can mingle with the friendly locals before arriving in Ha Noi.

DAY 11           DEPART HA NOI

We are free at leisure until transferring to the airport for departure flight.

Remark :  Compulsory surcharge on Peak season*

Price Inclusive :

• 9 nights hotel accommodation
• Air-conditioned vehicles and supporting truck
• Entrance fees and sightseeing as specified
• Breakfast daily & 2 lunches
• Local English / French speaking guide

NOTE: Bikes are guest’s own arrangement

Price Exclusive :

• International Air Ticket in-out Vietnam
• International Airport tax
• Visa fee
• Personal Expenses
• Tip