Cycling Holiday in Vietnam & Laos – A Journey into the Authentic North
One thing is certain: cycling through northern Vietnam and Laos is an experience you’ll carry with you for life. This is where culture, nature and authenticity meet – in a region still known by many as Indochina. Think endless panoramas, remote villages, and winding roads through rice terraces and misty highlands. Along the way, you’ll stay in handpicked locations and connect with the heart of local life in both Vietnam and Laos.
Fancy a gravel bike, mountain bike, e-bike – or even a road bike? It’s all possible. That said, while many roads are paved, the surface often bears the marks of time and weather. Uneven stretches and the occasional pothole are part of the charm – which is why we generally don’t recommend a road bike. But what makes this trip truly special? It’s designed for multiple levels of experience and fitness.
Why This Journey Stands Out
Travelling in Vietnam is a joy in itself – but have you discovered the highlights of this 19-day cycling journey through both Vietnam and Laos? Here’s what makes this particular adventure truly remarkable.
The Most Magical View in Laos
After crossing the border into Laos, you’ll discover some of its best-kept secrets – Nong Khiaw and tiny Muang Ngoi, a one-street village perched above the river. It’s from here you can hike to the Pha Noi viewpoint for one of the most breathtaking vistas in Southeast Asia. And naturally, we include Luang Prabang – a jewel of colonial charm and sacred temples.
The Untamed Beauty of Northern Vietnam
This region is known for its raw, changing landscapes – dramatic mountain passes, endless rice terraces, and valleys that unfold like silk beneath your wheels. Unlike most visitors who are whisked from place to place, you’ll move through the landscape slowly, consciously, fully. From the high plains of Sin Ho to quiet mountain ridges – each day reveals another highlight.
A Deeper Connection with the People
What makes this journey unforgettable is the people you’ll meet. You’ll ride through traditional villages, chat with locals in colourful markets, and share smiles with children waving from the roadside. In both countries, you’ll encounter ethnic communities rarely seen by tourists – and experience life not from behind a window, but from the road itself.
The Route of Your cycling holiday in Vietnam & Laos – A Ride to Remember
Your adventure begins in vibrant Hanoi. With no more than 20 fellow cyclists, you’ll follow a hand-designed route that takes in the best of both nations. Expect meaningful climbs, soul-stirring views, well-timed rest days and, above all, the freedom to ride at your own pace. Evenings bring warmth and togetherness – shared meals, stories and the sense of having truly travelled.
Nineteen days later, you’ll fly home from Laos – with legs that ache a little and a heart that’s full.
Prefer a Private Cycling Experience?
If you’d rather explore Vietnam and Laos solo or with your own group, we’d be delighted to craft something bespoke. Simply visit our page on individual cycling journeys for more inspiration.
Looking for More of a Challenge?
Seeking something with steeper climbs, fewer rest days, and a more intense rhythm? Explore our dedicated Northern Vietnam cycling tour – designed for adventurous riders ready to push their limits. [View Northern Vietnam Cycling Tour]