North Central 6 days

Day 1:

Lao Cai – Bac Ha – Xi Man ( 160 km/5 hours )

Commencing at 9 pm the night before, we embark on a night train, a 4-bed sleeper cabin, to Lao Cai. Upon arrival at approximately 6 am, a delectable breakfast awaits before our adventure begins in the heart of Lao Cai, adjacent to the Chinese border. A short photo break at the border precedes our journey to Bac Ha town, renowned for its century-old vibrant market featuring mountainous communities such as the Dzao and Flower H’Mong, open only on Sunday mornings. Continuing north to Xi Man through a picturesque trail with deep, impressive scenery, we take a brief pause at Lao Chai village atop a splendorous mountain for an overview of the impressive Chay River below. We will rest at a hotel in Xi Man for the night.

Day 2

Xi Man – Ha Giang ( 160 km/6 hours)

Breakfast at a local restaurant near our hotel sets the stage for a morning visit to a local market, providing a chance to meet various minority groups like the Dzao, Nung, and Flower H’Mong. The roads, challenging with mountain passes and tortuous paths, offer an excellent opportunity to test your riding skills. After lunch in Tan Quang, the final 50 km to Ha Giang becomes more leisurely on Road No 2. Time permitting, a visit to Thanh Ha allows relaxation and enjoyment of hot springs. We will overnight at a hotel in Ha Giang

Day 3

Ha Giang – Dong Van ( 150 km/6 hours)

We proceed with our journey through the captivating Quang Ba, Dong Van, and Yen Minh regions where well-knows famous Ha Giang Loop . These areas boast breathtaking natural landscapes and pristine views of the surroundings. The local residents, accustomed to hard work and long hours, exhibit remarkable resilience, creatively navigating challenges in their rocky farmland existence. Despite their modest desires for happiness, they are known for their outgoing and friendly nature.

Taking a brief break at an informative coffee shop, we may ascend some stairs to enjoy picturesque views of Quang Ba. Afterward, we pause for lunch in Yen Minh before exploring Pho Bang, a centuries-old village characterized by multi-storey clay brick houses with tiled roofs. Another visit to the Vuong Palace is a must—an architectural gem showcasing European-Chinese design and once home to the high-ranking H’mong family, including Vietnam’s purported H’mong King, Vuong Chi Sinh, during the French colonial era. This historical site captivates architecturally-minded visitors. Our final destination is Dong Van, where we spend the night in a comfortable hotel.

Day 4

Dong Van – Meo vac – Bao Lac ( 120 km/4 hours)

Today, we traverse the awe-inspiring Ma Pi Leng Pass, offering a breathtaking panorama of the Nho Que River. Descending towards Meo Vac, we journey through the mystical high mountainous areas of Ha Giang before arriving at Bao Lac, our resting place for the day. Bao Lac serves as a significant ethnic crossroads, bringing together diverse ethnic groups from Northeast Vietnam. The Sunday market in Bao Lac becomes a vibrant gathering spot for various ethnic communities hailing from both sides of the borders. Our accommodation for the night is in a comfortable hotel.

Day 5

Bao Lac – Ba Be ( 170 km/6 hours)

Embarking on the journey from Bao Lac to Ba Be Lake, you will be captivated by the scenic beauty of the winding mountain roads leading to our destination. The route takes us through numerous mountain passes, providing a thrilling experience for those seeking an adventurous ride. With the flexibility to make stops as desired, the journey allows for moments of exploration and appreciation of the breathtaking landscapes. Anticipated to take around 8 hours, including breaks for meals and refreshments, the ride culminates in the enchanting Ba Be Lake. The destination offers a unique overnight stay in traditional stilt houses within a Tay community, providing an authentic and immersive cultural experience.

Day 6

Ba Be – Hanoi ( 240 km/7 hours)

On the final day of our journey, we have an exciting ride ahead as we make our way back to Hanoi. The route skirts the west side of Ba Be Lake as we head south, passing through the town of Thai Nguyen, famed in Vietnam for its superior tea. We will stop here to explore the Vietnamese Ethnic Group Museum of Cultures, where vibrant exhibits showcase the diverse lifestyles of the 50 tribes residing in Vietnam’s hills.

Our estimated arrival in Hanoi is 5:00 P.M., marking the conclusion of this adventure.