Cycling Holiday in Northern Vietnam – A 19-Day Journey through Nature and Culture

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Summary

Cycling Holiday in Northern Vietnam – A 19-Day Journey through Nature and Culture

This 19-day cycling holiday offers a deep dive into the authentic heart of Vietnam. Each day reveals breathtaking landscapes, unique accommodations, and enriching encounters with the local community. With a route designed for multiple ability levels, this journey is as accessible as it is unforgettable.

Highlights of Your Cycling Holiday in Northern Vietnam

Cycling in Vietnam is a remarkable experience in itself – but have you discovered the highlights of this 19-day journey through the north? Here’s what makes this particular trip so exceptional:

Northern Vietnam’s Most Stunning Landscapes

If you only have two or three weeks in Vietnam and you’re drawn to nature, the north is your dream destination. From the dramatic mountains of Ha Giang and Sa Pa to the calm of Ba Be National Park and the hidden gem of Bao Lac, every destination brings a new perspective – and the variety is simply unmatched.

Pedal to the Chinese Border

Yes, really – you’ll ride all the way to Vietnam’s northernmost point, right up to the Chinese border. This remote region is rarely visited and remains one of Vietnam’s true undiscovered treasures. From there, you’ll conquer the legendary Tram Ton Pass – a 35-kilometre climb that earns its name as the “Gateway to Heaven.”

Extraordinary Places to Stay, Meaningful Encounters

This cycling holiday in Vietnam blends nature with cultural immersion. From the luxury of Hanoi’s Peridot Grand Hotel to welcoming family-run lodges in the countryside, no two nights are the same. Each stay brings you closer to local life – and a side of Vietnam few travellers ever see.

The Route: 19 Days of Cycling through Northern Vietnam

Your journey begins in the lively capital of Hanoi. With a group of no more than 20 cyclists, you’ll follow a carefully curated route through both renowned highlights and remote corners of Vietnam. Expect mountain passes, dramatic climbs, and exhilarating descents – all adjustable to suit different levels of fitness and experience.

Every evening, the group reunites to share stories over dinner. Whether you ride fast or slow, solo or side by side, this is a shared adventure in every sense.

After 19 days, you’ll conclude your journey in the city of Thai Nguyen – tired but exhilarated – and fly home with memories that will stay with you for a lifetime.

Prefer an Individual Cycling Trip in Vietnam?

If a group tour isn’t quite your style, we also offer tailor-made individual cycling adventures through Northern Vietnam. See “Individual Journeys – Vietnam” for more information.

Prefer a Gentler Ride with More Breathing Room?

If you’re after fewer climbs and a slower pace with additional rest days, our Vietnam & Laos cycling holiday may be a better fit. It offers a rich blend of landscapes, tranquil rivers, and cultural immersion – all at a more relaxed rhythm. Discover: Explore the Vietnam & Laos Cycling Holiday

Departure Dates

Cycling Holiday in Northern Vietnam – A 19-Day Immersion in Culture and Landscape

Vietnam is one of those rare places that quietly claim a place in your heart – a country that truly deserves a chapter in your travel story. This 19-day cycling holiday in Northern Vietnam invites you to immerse yourself in the country’s unspoilt beauty and authentic soul. You’ll pedal through towering mountain ranges, verdant rice terraces and hidden hamlets, all while forging genuine connections with the locals. With every turn of the wheel, you’ll collect unforgettable moments. Explore the departure dates and join us on this remarkable journey.

Departure date	Duration	Level	Availablility		Price p.p.
15/10/2025	19 days	Gemengd	Available		€3,950.00	Book this trip

Trip Level – Designed for Adventurers of All Abilities

At CvA travel, we believe that unforgettable adventures should be within reach for everyone – no matter your level of experience or fitness. This journey begins at Level 3. Ride every distance and tackle every climb under your own power, and the difficulty increases. Prefer to take it easier? An e-mountain bike or the option to ride part of the route in the support vehicle means this tour remains accessible without compromising the experience.

Prefer a Gentler Ride with More Breathing Room?

Daily Itinerary

Day-to-Day Programme: A 19-Day Cycling Holiday in Northern Vietnam

Below you’ll find the full day-by-day itinerary for this 19-day cycling holiday in Northern Vietnam. Got experience with climbs and elevation? Embrace the challenge on a gravel or mountain bike. Prefer something gentler? On an e-bike, this adventure is accessible to all. One thing is certain – this holiday promises a blend of culture, scenery, and adventure you won’t soon forget.

Day 1 – Arrival in Hanoi

After clearing immigration and stepping into the bustling air of Hanoi, you can relax – everything from transfers and accommodation to meals and snacks has been arranged.

You’ll be welcomed and transferred to the elegant Peridot Grand Hotel in the heart of the city. Hanoi is a city of contradictions: a maze of narrow streets, a stream of scooters, and yet – undeniable charm. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy a relaxed afternoon. Settle in, unwind, and begin the gentle transition into the rhythm of Vietnam.

Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Peridot Grand Luxury Boutique Hotel
Day 2 – Cultural Must-Sees in Hanoi

No trip to Northern Vietnam is complete without time in Hanoi. Today you’ll explore the city’s cultural highlights: from the tranquil Tran Quoc Pagoda to the Ho Chi Minh Complex, the iconic One Pillar Pagoda, and the Temple of Literature.

In the afternoon, it’s time to assemble your own bike or collect your rental. Anticipation builds – your 19-day cycling holiday through Northern Vietnam is about to truly begin.

In the evening, enjoy your first taste of Vietnamese cuisine, followed by a visit to the world-famous Train Street – especially magical under the glow of lanterns.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Peridot Grand Luxury Boutique Hotel
Day 3 – From Hanoi to Yen Bai

This morning, a transfer brings you to the rural town of Son Tay, where your cycling adventure begins. Today’s ride offers gentle terrain with a few short climbs – the perfect warm-up.

You’ll follow the banks of the Red River, cycling through Phu Tho towards Yen Bai. The scenery is lush and vivid, and by late afternoon, you’ll arrive in the town known for its terraced rice fields.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Nhu Nguyet Hotel

55KM – 208↑ – 183↓
Day 4 – Yen Bai to Sa Pa

Prepare for a challenge – and some of the most rewarding views of the trip. Depending on your preferred distance, you’ll be transferred up to 90km towards Sa Pa before continuing by bike.

Today’s route climbs through scenic, rural landscapes. A highlight: the China Border Gate – it’s rare to get this close. The day ends with the legendary Tram Ton Pass, a 35-kilometre ascent and the highest mountain pass in Vietnam, known as ‘Heaven’s Gate’. The hairpin turns offer ever-changing vistas that will fill your camera roll – and your memory.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Sapa Garden Bed and Breakfast Hotel

65KM (more if desired) – 2,375↑ – 916↓
Day 5 – Sa Pa: Explore or Unwind

Today is yours to shape – a hallmark of any flexible cycling holiday in Northern Vietnam. Relax with a massage, soak up the mountain views, or pick up the pace again.

A ride from Sa Pa to the village of Ta Van is a rewarding option – 12 kilometres downhill to a valley home to the Hmong, Red Dao, and Giay ethnic groups. Surrounded by rice terraces, this is an authentic glimpse into rural life. Stop at Lao Chai on the way back for even deeper insight.

Prefer a different kind of ascent? Take a cable car to Mount Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina. From there, it’s just 600 steps (or a short train ride) to the summit at 3,147 metres. The view is unforgettable. Please note: this excursion is not included in the tour price.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Sapa Garden Bed and Breakfast Hotel

28KM – 616↑ – 615↓
Day 6 – From Sa Pa to Bac Ha

An early start today as you pedal towards the border town of Lao Cai – not to be confused with Lao Chai. Nestled near China’s Yunnan province, Lao Cai offers a glimpse into a thriving trade hub, rich in modern architecture.

The route gradually climbs towards the lively village of Coc Ly, where the local market bursts with colour, craft, and culture – a real sensory experience. By this point, you’ll have covered around 55km.

Then comes the final test of the day: a challenging 15-kilometre climb with 800 metres of elevation over rough, unpaved terrain. Your reward? Sweeping views and the sweet scent of plum trees as you arrive in Bac Ha.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation: La Beauté Bắc Hà – or Bac Ha Sao Mai Hotel (larger groups)

70KM – 1,441↑ – 2,028↓
Day 7 – Bac Ha to Hoang Su Phi

Today’s destination: Hoang Su Phi, one of Northern Vietnam’s most remote and magical corners. First, you’ll ride to the secluded village of Xin Man near the Chinese border, home to 15 ethnic minority communities. Without this journey, it’s a place you’d likely never discover.

Cross the Cathy River, then tackle a rugged stretch of road flanked by dramatic views and steep gradients. It’s tough riding but richly rewarding. By evening, you’ll arrive at the peaceful Hoang Su Phi Lodge.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Hoang Su Phi Lodge

55KM – 1,370↑ – 1,810↓
Day 8 – Hoang Su Phi to Ha Giang

Bid farewell to the serenity of Hoang Su Phi. Today you’ll ascend through misty forests and hidden valleys en route to Heaven Gate 2 – a lofty mountain pass with views that live up to the name.

The descent is equally spectacular, winding past rice paddies and maize fields, remote villages and gentle streams. The ride continues along the Lo River, guiding you into the town of Ha Giang – a highlight of any cycling holiday Northern Vietnam and the perfect place to unwind after a big day in the saddle.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation: The Palm Ha Giang Ecolodge & Tour

75KM – 2,222↑ – 2,591↓

**Shorter routes available for those seeking a lighter day.
Day 9 – Rest Day in Ha Giang

Take a well-earned break. Ha Giang is a highlight of this cycling holiday in Northern Vietnam, with plenty to do – or not do, if you’d prefer a quieter pace.

Hike the Tay Con Linh Mountain, visit the local village of Na Thac, or explore the Snowhan Tea Plantation. Alternatively, spend the day at the tranquil ecolodge with a good book and a pot of tea.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation: The Palm Ha Giang Ecolodge & Tour
Day 10 – Into the Mountains: Ha Giang to Yen Minh

Today’s ride blends rolling ascents with towering limestone karsts as you tackle the first of the legendary ‘Heaven Gates’ – a thrilling stretch of road with views over the Twin Hills and Tam Son Valley.

The final descent into Yen Minh is a reward in itself, with the opportunity to observe traditional stilt houses and learn more about the mountain tribes that call this region home.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Aka Homestay – or Phuong Dong Hotel (larger groups)

75KM – 1,869↑ – 1,528↓
Day 11 – The Halfway Point: Yen Minh to Meo Vac

Today’s ride takes you high into the Dong Van Plateau, beginning with a tough yet breathtaking climb into a valley village. From 1,500 metres above sea level, descend along a dramatic canyon road with the Nho Que River shimmering far below. Despite the effort, the vast, green panoramas and winding roads bring a surprising sense of peace. By late afternoon, you’ll arrive in Meo Vac.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Mã Pì Lèng EcoLodge – or Hoa Cuong Hotel (larger groups)

75KM – 2,180↑ – 1,523↓
Day 12 – Rest and Culture in Meo Vac

This morning is all about taking it slow – linger over breakfast or enjoy a lie-in. In the afternoon, join a relaxed walk to the villages of Na Trao and Ban Tong, where traditional architecture and brightly dressed ethnic groups await.

If it’s Sunday, don’t miss the local market – one of the most vibrant in the region. Local women arrive with bamboo baskets full of maize and vegetables, and you’ll find everything from colourful fabrics to livestock. A true cultural highlight of this cycling holiday Northern Vietnam.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Mã Pì Lèng EcoLodge – or Hoa Cuong Hotel (larger groups)
Day 13 – Meo Vac to Bao Lac

Re-energised after your rest day, tackle a short but steep opening climb. From there, it’s largely flat or downhill, with the landscape unfolding around you in layers of limestone formations and forested peaks.

The scenery is surreal – jagged rock towers, lush valleys and villages full of locals in traditional dress. Expect to stop often just to take it all in. As dusk falls, you’ll roll into the quiet town of Bao Lac, filled with new memories.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Homestay Khuổi Khon – or Duc Tai Hotel (larger groups)

75KM – 1,697↑ – 2,552↓
Day 14 – Climbing to Pac Bo Cave

Eighteen kilometres into the day, you’ll reach the start of the Khau Coc Cha Pass – and the option for one of the tour’s most exhilarating climbs: a steep, five-kilometre ascent featuring 14 tight switchbacks.

Up for the challenge? Hike to the summit for sweeping views of the surrounding valleys. Prefer to skip the climb? A transfer can bring you up instead. After the walk, you’ll have another choice: continue along rugged off-road paths or follow a gentler village track.

However you reach it, Me Homestay will be your welcoming retreat at day’s end – a peaceful place to rest and reflect on this leg of your cycling holiday Northern Vietnam.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Me Homestay

50 to 75KM – 2,145↑ – 2,045↓
Day 15 – Pac Bo Cave to Ban Gioc Waterfalls

No day on this cycling holiday through Northern Vietnam passes without awe-inspiring scenery. Today’s route follows the Cao Bang Cycle Loop for 55–75 kilometres, winding along a scenic singletrack beside the Quay Son River. Your destination? The majestic Ban Gioc Waterfall – straddling the border between Vietnam and China. Witnessing this natural spectacle is a defining moment in your adventure.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Saigon – Ban Gioc Resort

50 to 75KM – 1,282↑ – 1,230↓
Day 16 – The Final Ride: Ban Gioc to Ba Be National Park

One final ride on your cycling holiday in Northern Vietnam – or opt for a transfer, if you prefer. Today’s route winds through colourful highland villages, home to diverse ethnic communities. If you choose to cycle, you’ll have plenty of chances to pause and share smiles, gestures or stories with the locals – brief but meaningful connections that linger.

At Ba Be National Park, a network of walking trails awaits. Whichever you choose, you’ll step into a living postcard of serene rice valleys, misty jungle and calm emerald lakes. Tonight, sleep beside Ba Be Lake – a fitting end to your two-wheeled adventure.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Ba Be Jungle Houses – or Ba Be Lake Resort (larger groups)

45KM – 2,544↑ – 2,770↓
Day 17 – A Day on Ba Be Lake

Today we trade pedals for paddles. Drift across the mirror-still surface of Ba Be Lake in a traditional longboat, meandering along the Nang River to the tumbling Dau Dang Waterfall. A fresh local lunch is served with a view, followed by an atmospheric visit to the shadowy Ngoi Caves. After, take a dip in the lake, relax with a book, or wander the shoreline at your leisure.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Ba Be Jungle Houses – or Ba Be Lake Resort (larger groups)
Day 18 – On to Thai Nguyen

As the road leads back along the Phu Thon route, gaze through the window and savour your final glimpses of Vietnam’s mountainous majesty. Arriving in Thai Nguyen, the shift to city life feels almost surreal after so many days in untouched landscapes.

We visit the Museum of Ethnic Cultures before gathering for a celebratory dinner in a local restaurant. Together, we’ll raise a glass to the shared memories and stories of this unforgettable 19-day cycling holiday in Northern Vietnam.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation: The King Hotel
Day 19 – Farewell Vietnam

Every journey must come to an end. As you await your flight home, reflect on the extraordinary experiences of the past 19 days – the landscapes, the people, the moments etched in memory.

Once the suitcase is unpacked and the legs are rested, one thing is certain: the longing to return will come. Until next time!

Meals: Breakfast

Pricing

What’s Included in the Price

Feeling just as excited about this cycling holiday through Northern Vietnam as we are? Here’s exactly what’s covered.

Included

Accommodation in carefully selected twin rooms throughout the tour
All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), unless otherwise specified
Dedicated support vehicle and luggage truck
Airport transfers on arrival and departure days
Fresh fruit, snacks, and water available during cycling stages
Refreshing cold towels at the end of each ride
Knowledgeable Vietnamese guide, professional driver, and one or two experienced mechanics
GPX files with daily routes
All entry fees as outlined in the day-to-day itinerary

Not Included

International flights
Travel insurance
Personal expenses
Alcoholic and soft drinks during meals
Trek mountain bike hire, including helmet, toolkit, and spare parts (€300)
E-bike hire with helmet (€475)
Optional Mount Fansipan cable car experience
Visa for Vietnam
Single room supplement
Gratuities for guides. While guides receive a base salary, tips are an important supplement to their income. We will suggest an appropriate amount and collect contributions as a group gift.
Booking fee (see terms and conditions)

Accommodation

What to Expect from Your Accommodation

A cycling holiday like this can be physically demanding, which makes rest and recovery all the more important. Every hotel, lodge and guesthouse on this journey has been thoughtfully selected to offer comfort, charm and, where possible, a touch of something special.

Good to Know: In Vietnam, firm mattresses are often preferred for their perceived health benefits. While we’ve taken Western preferences for softer beds into account wherever possible, please note that accommodation in more remote regions may offer simpler standards. The upside? You’ll be experiencing the real Vietnam — and that’s the magic of it all.

Below is a selection of standout stays. Depending on group size, we may occasionally adjust accommodations, but only to options of a similar standard and charm.

Peridot Grand Luxury Boutique Hotel Hanoi

Your cycling holiday through Northern Vietnam begins in style. This luxurious five-star hotel is a peaceful oasis tucked into the vibrant Old Quarter of Hanoi. Rejuvenate in the spa, unwind in the Jacuzzi or steam room, or indulge in a massage treatment before your adventure kicks off. Don’t miss a visit to the Ignite Sky Bar, where you’ll enjoy sweeping 360-degree views across the city skyline.

Sapa Garden Bed & Breakfast Hotel – Sa Pa

Known affectionately as a little slice of paradise, this charming hotel welcomes you with its serene garden and warm hospitality. It’s the perfect place to relax after a rewarding day on the bike. The owner, a passionate local chef, delights guests with exquisite Vietnamese cuisine made from fresh, regional ingredients. Need recommendations for things to do in the area? You’re in expert hands.

N.B. Groups of more than 12 guests will be accommodated at the nearby Green Sa Pa Hotel.

Hoang Su Phi Lodge – Hoang Su Phi

This gem is among the most memorable of the tour. Settle into your own private bungalow and wake up to stunning views of the surrounding rice terraces, mountain peaks and the Tay Con Linh range. The lodge offers massages and herbal baths for ultimate relaxation, and hiking trails start right from your doorstep. A place defined by purity, serenity, and deep connection with nature.

The Palm Ha Giang Ecolodge – Ha Giang

This tranquil eco-lodge is the definition of off-the-grid comfort. Nestled in nature, you’ll hear little more than birdsong and the rustling of trees. Whether taking a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool or sampling the beautifully prepared local dishes, this is a place to reconnect — with yourself and your surroundings.

Useful Information

Trip Level & Practical Information

This cycling journey welcomes riders of mixed abilities within one group. As the days unfold, the natural rhythm of the group tends to reveal itself: some prefer longer distances with more elevation, while others opt for shorter routes and gentler climbs. If at any point you’d prefer to skip a section, you’re welcome to travel by support vehicle. Want to take it a little easier? You’re more than welcome to join on an e-bike.

Our goal is for everyone to ride at their own pace and enjoy the journey in their own way. If you’re naturally faster, there’s no need to hold back. And if you’re slower, rest assured you’ll never be left behind. It’s all about creating shared memories on a shared adventure – and that, above all, is what matters most.

Practical Information

To ensure you’re well prepared, we’ve put together a checklist of essential items and travel information. Expect warm to hot temperatures in Vietnam, and pack primarily for summer riding.

Before your trip:

• Passport valid for at least 6 months
• Travel, cancellation and health insurance
• Required vaccinations
• Visas for Vietnam and Laos

Packing List:

• Windproof cycling jersey (short sleeves)
• Detachable arm and leg warmers
• Lightweight rain jacket
• Helmet (provided with MTB/e-MTB hire)
• Cycling shoes
• Padded cycling gloves
• Insect repellent
• Cycling shorts
• Jerseys
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen (minimum SPF 50)
• Water bottles or hydration pack
• Swimwear
• Lightweight evening wear
• Sunhat

Optional / personal preferences:

• Daypack for any trekking excursions
• Your own saddle and pedals (if preferred)

Authentic Adventure
Unforgettable Landscapes
Comfort in All the Right Places

Level of difficulty:

Suitable for:

Gravel / MTB / E-MTB

19 days for €3,950,00 p.p

Book this trip

A Glimpse of the Journey

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Itching to set off on an extraordinary ride? Can’t wait to hop on the saddle and explore your dream destination at your own pace? Take a look at all our cycling journeys below – or get in touch to request a tailor-made adventure designed just for you.

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