This is more than a cycling trip – it’s a truly personal adventure, where nature, culture and freedom flow into one. Accompanied by your own local guide – discreet yet attentive – you set the pace, choose the pauses and shape each day to suit your style. With everything thoughtfully arranged behind the scenes, you’re free to fully immerse yourself in the experience.
One thing is certain: cycling through Laos and Vietnam will leave you in awe, time and again. The north of these two countries is a dreamscape for adventurous cyclists – a tapestry of remote valleys, lush hills and vibrant local life.
This tailor-made cycling adventure from Laos to Vietnam invites you to explore landscapes far from the tourist trail, in your own time and in your own way. From the serene mountain passes of Laos to the striking karst peaks of Northern Vietnam, each turn of the pedals reveals a new, breathtaking view. While most travellers gravitate towards the familiar highlights, we seek out the soul of a place – its hidden corners and quiet beauty. And in northern Laos and Vietnam, those hidden gems are everywhere.
Gravel bike, mountain bike or e-bike – whichever suits you best, this tailor-made journey is yours to shape.
Your adventure begins in Luang Prabang, a city steeped in charm, where you follow the Mekong River to the turquoise cascades of Kuang Si Waterfall. From here, the road winds deeper into rural Laos – past rice paddies, through jungle – to Nong Khuay, a Hmong and Khummu village where you’ll spend the night in a local home. The next few days take you along quiet backroads to Nong Khiaw, a riverside village framed by towering limestone peaks. From there, the journey continues to Oudomxay, nestled in rainforest, before gliding downstream by longtail boat to Muang Khua.
After a bold ride through remote mountain terrain, you cross into Vietnam and arrive in Dien Bien Phu – a city marked by its wartime legacy. The road then weaves through valleys, rice terraces and stilted villages, guiding you to Muong Lay and Lai Chau. A high point – in every sense – is the legendary O Quy Ho Pass: Vietnam’s highest mountain pass. From its summit, a sweeping descent brings you to Sapa, where a cable car awaits to carry you to the summit of Mount Fansipan – the “Roof of Indochina” – soaring 3,147 metres above sea level.
On your final day in the saddle, you cycle through the emerald valley of Lao Chai and Ta Van, before boarding the night train to Hanoi – a fitting close to a journey rich in discovery. Whether you’re drawn by the landscapes, the culture, or the sheer joy of the ride, this tailor-made cycling adventure from Laos to Vietnam offers a journey that stays with you long after the wheels stop turning.
Craving more adventure, fewer rest days and higher climbs? Explore our privately guided cycling journey through Northern Vietnam – designed for those who seek freedom, challenge and the road less travelled.
Dreaming of a tailor-made cycling adventure from Laos to Vietnam – one that takes you through the captivating north, entirely shaped around your personal wishes? With us, you decide when to travel and how each day unfolds.
Our 14-day itinerary is there to inspire, but how you bring it to life is entirely up to you. Prefer to add a rest day, visit a special location, or stay in a homestay or boutique hotel? Want to shorten the route, or extend it with extra days? Everything is possible.
Throughout your journey, you’ll be accompanied by a private local guide – someone who knows the region intimately and ensures every detail runs seamlessly, so you can focus entirely on the ride.
Would you rather book a ready-to-go trip? Then you’re welcome to follow the suggested itinerary at the listed price. However you choose to travel, your tailor-made cycling adventure from Laos to Vietnam will offer you an authentic, personal way to experience the region’s natural beauty and cultural richness.
Can you already picture yourself cycling through the majestic landscapes of Laos and Vietnam? Endless mountain views, breathtaking panoramas and quiet roads that lead you past authentic villages and into pristine nature – this is the ultimate way to truly experience these captivating countries. The following 14-day itinerary offers inspiration for your tailor-made cycling adventure from Laos to Vietnam. Curious? Let the day-by-day outline below spark your imagination.
Welcome to Laos. On arrival, you’ll be met at the airport and transferred to a characterful boutique hotel in Luang Prabang. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy, take a leisurely stroll through the city’s atmospheric streets, browse the colourful evening market, or simply unwind and let the anticipation of the days ahead settle in.
Meals: not included
Hotel: Luang Prabang Boutique Hotel
After breakfast, the wheels begin to turn. Today’s gentle ride follows the curve of the Mekong River along quiet lanes, past rice paddies and traditional villages where the rhythm of rural life carries on, unhurried. Children call out greetings, buffalo wallow contentedly in muddy pools, and the scent of woodsmoke drifts through the trees.
After around 30 km, you arrive at the Kuang Si Waterfall – a cascade of turquoise pools nestled in lush forest, perfect for a refreshing swim. Enjoy a picnic lunch beneath the shade of tropical trees. If you wish, visit the nearby wildlife sanctuary for rescued Asiatic black bears – a quiet place of care and recovery.
In the afternoon, a short city tour reveals Luang Prabang’s unique charm – an elegant fusion of French-colonial grace and Laotian spirituality. Wander at your own pace, visit ancient temples, or pause for a cup of rich Lao coffee as the golden light of late afternoon settles over the rooftops.
Meals: breakfast, lunch
Cycling: optional 30 km, easy
Hotel: Luang Prabang Boutique Hotel
Begin the day with a thought-provoking visit to the UXO Education Centre, where you’ll learn about the legacy of unexploded ordnance from the Vietnam War and the important work being done to clear affected areas.
The road then leads you into green hills and through villages where time seems to stretch – a place of quiet routines and gentle smiles. Cycle through landscapes of bamboo and rice, where artisans weave baskets and families gather under stilted homes. Stop when you wish, greet those you meet, and let the journey unfold.
After around 35 km, you reach the remote village of Nong Khuay, home to Hmong and Khummu families. As dusk settles, you’ll share a home-cooked dinner made with local ingredients – a simple, generous meal shared in good company. Tonight, you stay with a host family: a warm and genuine glimpse into life in the Laotian countryside.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Cycling: 30 km, easy (402↑ / 291↓)
Transfer: 30 km
Accommodation: Homestay in Nong Khuay
You’ll leave the village via unpaved roads, cycling 37 km through remote, rolling countryside. Along the way, you’ll pass traditional communities and take in sweeping views across the valley. After this stretch, a scenic 2-hour transfer north brings you to the Nam Ou Dam and on to Pak Mong.
From here, you’re back on the bike for the final 30 km – a stunning ride through limestone karst landscapes with dramatic peaks on all sides.
Your day ends in Nong Khiaw, a peaceful village nestled on the banks of the Nam Ou River, surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery. The river is the heart of village life – you’ll see boats carrying schoolchildren, fresh produce and even chickens. Take a moment to enjoy a cup of Laotian coffee and a freshly baked treat at a local café.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Cycling: 67 km total (37 km + 30 km), moderate
Transfer: 2 hours
Hotel: Nong Khiaw Resort
After a hearty breakfast, saddle up for a 65 km ride through the untouched north of Laos, where jungle-covered hills and sweeping valleys dominate the horizon. The route winds along narrow roads, through tiny villages that offer a glimpse of traditional rural life.
Arriving in Oudomxay, you’re welcomed by the cool mountain air and tranquil forest surroundings. You’ll stay at the Namkat Yorla Pa Resort – a peaceful retreat deep in the rainforest, nestled along the banks of the Nam Kat River. The only sounds here are birdsong, flowing water, and the whisper of wind in the trees – an ideal setting to unwind after a rewarding day on the bike.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Cycling: 65 km
Hotel: Namkat Yorla Pa Resort (National Park)
Today is all about nature and adventure. Set out on a hike through the protected rainforest, where you’ll cross rivers and streams via 15 to 20 hanging bridges and rope nets. The trail leads you to the stunning Nam Kat Waterfall, a hidden gem deep in the jungle.
For thrill-seekers, there’s the option to return via zipline – gliding through the treetops, above rivers and cliffs, and seeing the forest from an entirely new perspective. The full descent includes 11 zip lines ranging from 30 to 300 metres – an unforgettable highlight of your tailor-made cycling adventure from Laos to Vietnam.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Activity: hiking and zipline
Hotel: Namkat Yorla Pa Resort (National Park)
Today you trade the bike for a traditional longtail boat, cruising down the scenic Nam Ou River. Along the way, you’ll visit the sleepy town of Muang Ngoi, home to an ancient temple and a historic cave complex used as a shelter during the Second Indochina War.
As you glide past steep karst mountains, dense jungle and quiet riverside villages, a picnic lunch is served onboard. Around 5pm, you’ll arrive in Muang Khua, a tranquil border town perched along the riverbank.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Cycling: none
Transport: full day longtail boat cruise
Hotel: New Chaleunsouk Guesthouse
Today, you bid farewell to Laos and continue your tailor-made cycling adventure from Laos to Vietnam with a challenging yet rewarding 65 km ride to the border near Muang Khua. The route climbs steadily – first ascending 600 metres over 10 km, then a second climb of 800 metres stretched over 15 km. Panoramic valley views accompany you throughout, as the road winds through a dramatic mountain landscape that humbles and inspires.
After a well-earned lunch and completing border formalities, you cross into Vietnam. A short transfer brings you to Dien Bien Phu – a city steeped in history, once the epicentre of a pivotal moment in Vietnam’s journey to independence. Settle into your hotel, take a deep breath, and absorb the atmosphere of this historic place.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Cycling: 65 km, challenging (2,219↑ / 1,404↓)
Walking: 1 hour
Hotel: Him Lam Resort (with pool)
Today you have a choice: take a well-earned rest or explore the echoes of history that resonate throughout Dien Bien Phu. Visit Hill A1 (Éliane), the Military Museum, and the bunker of Colonel de Castries. From a nearby hilltop, take in sweeping views of the battlefield – a landscape that still whispers the name of General Giáp with quiet reverence.
A relaxed 25 km ride connects the historical sites, bringing the past to life in a tangible and moving way. An evocative day in the heart of Vietnam’s modern history.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Cycling: 25 km, easy
Transfer: none
Hotel: Him Lam Resort (with pool)
Your journey continues through lush valleys and alongside glistening rivers, past fields of rice and sleepy hamlets. The road meanders gently upward toward 1,000 metres – crisp mountain air and sweeping views your companions throughout the ride.
Your reward is a thrilling 20 km descent into Muong Lay – once a bustling town, now partially reclaimed by nature. Here, time slows down again, offering peace, space and a sense of reflection at the end of a dramatic and varied day.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Cycling: 110 km, challenging (1,718↑ / 2,387↓)
Hotel: Hoa Binh Hotel
Rise early to watch the morning mist lift from the Black River and soak in the stillness of the surrounding peaks. After breakfast, set off on the first 25 km stretch to Chan Nura – a winding, tarmac road opening onto views of distant ridgelines, stilt villages and meandering streams.
Today is all about the rhythm of the climb and the joy of the descent – a demanding, beautiful day on the bike that will leave you both exhausted and elated. The ride ends with one of the most stunning vistas in northern Vietnam – a moment to simply stand still and take it all in.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Cycling: 90 km, challenging (1,718↑ / 2,387↓)
Hotel: Muong Thanh Lai Chau Hotel (with pool)
This may well be the crown jewel of your tailor-made cycling adventure from Laos to Vietnam. Today’s ride takes you over the legendary O Quy Ho Pass – Vietnam’s highest mountain pass – climbing 35 km to over 2,000 metres above sea level. Known as the “Heaven’s Gate”, the pass reveals sweeping views of misty ridgelines and dramatic, ever-changing mountain scenery.
After reaching the summit, a long descent brings you to the mountain town of Sapa, famous for its terraced rice fields and vibrant ethnic diversity. A well-earned rest awaits.
Meals: breakfast, lunch
Cycling: 85 km, challenging (2,291↑ / 1,700↓)
Hotel: Sapa Green Hotel
At 8:30 a.m., you depart by bike from your hotel in Sapa and follow a newly built, unpaved road winding through sculpted rice terraces and mountain vistas.
Your first stop is the Black Hmong village of Lao Chai, where a brief pause offers a window into the daily rhythms of this hill tribe. Continue to Ta Van – a village of the Giay minority – to admire traditional stilt houses and learn about local customs.
Depending on your energy, you can cycle back to Sapa or opt for a transfer. After lunch and some free time to explore Sapa at your leisure, you’ll travel by car to Lao Cai for the overnight train to Hanoi. In your private sleeping compartment, the gentle rhythm of the train lulls you into rest as the landscape of northern Vietnam slips quietly past your window.
Meals: breakfast, lunch
Cycling: approx. 27 km
Accommodation: Overnight express train to Hanoi (private cabin)
Savour your final moments in Vietnam. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time to wander through the Old Quarter, sip a strong Vietnamese iced coffee, or simply reflect on the journey that brought you here. A transfer will take you to the airport for your onward flight.
Meals: breakfast
Would you like to experience this journey exactly as we’ve crafted it? You can. But we also offer the freedom to tailor the route entirely to your preferences. Whether you’d like to add a rest day, upgrade your accommodation, or include an extra cycling stage – everything can be adapted to suit your wishes.
This tailor-made cycling adventure from Laos to Vietnam is more than just a collection of unforgettable moments – it invites you to rethink what travel can be. Whether you love steep mountain climbs or prefer to glide through endless rice fields at a relaxed pace, you set the rhythm and direction of your ride. Accompanied by your own private English-speaking guide, you’ll enjoy the best of both worlds: freedom and flexibility, combined with local insight and seamless organisation.
Curious to see how we can shape your perfect cycling holiday? Feel free to get in touch or request a no-obligation quote. We’ll take care of everything – so all that’s left for you to do is enjoy the ride.
On this tailor-made cycling adventure from Laos to Vietnam, we’ve handpicked a thoughtful selection of accommodation that complements the rhythm and spirit of your journey. From charming guesthouses to boutique jungle resorts, each place you stay adds its own flavour to the experience.
Because this is a journey designed around you, we offer flexibility where possible. Would you prefer a touch of luxury at the end of your ride, or the authenticity of a homestay in a remote village? Just let us know – we’re happy to adapt the itinerary to match your preferences.
In some areas, we’ll be staying in truly off-the-beaten-track locations, where options are limited. In these cases, you’ll sleep in the best available accommodation – often in extraordinary natural surroundings or nestled in a traditional village. It’s all part of what makes this tailor-made cycling adventure from Laos to Vietnam so memorable.
Below is a glimpse of some of the places you may stay:
Set deep in the rainforest, Namkat Yorla Pa is more than a hotel – it’s a nature retreat offering both tranquillity and adventure. Luxurious yet grounded, this resort allows you to unwind completely while surrounded by the raw beauty of Laos. From forest walks and zipline adventures to spa treatments and traditional massages, there’s something for everyone here. It’s no surprise this is one of our personal favourites.
Perched above the Nam Ou River near the boat pier to Nong Khiaw, this guesthouse offers Muang Khua’s best rooms. The style is modest but well-kept, with clean beds, a fan, a flat-screen TV, kettle and a basic en-suite bathroom with hot water. The true highlight is the location – peaceful, elevated, and immersed in the landscape.
A welcoming 3-star hotel in the heart of Dien Bien Phu, Him Lam is the perfect place to relax after a day of discovery. Enjoy a drink in the garden, unwind in the sauna or steam room, or opt for a traditional Vietnamese massage. This hotel combines comfort and a touch of indulgence, making it a favourite for travellers seeking both culture and calm.
Our 14-day itinerary offers a rich and inspiring journey – but if you’d like to personalise your experience even further, we offer a range of suggested extensions to enhance your adventure. Whether you’d like to add a rest day, enjoy a special excursion or include another scenic stage by bike, we’ve listed several ideas to get you started.
Looking for something completely bespoke? Just let us know. We’re happy to create a cycling holiday tailored entirely to your wishes.
Tucked away on the banks of the Nam Ou River, Nong Khiaw is a quiet gem not yet touched by mass tourism. Split across both riverbanks and connected by a modest bridge, this charming village offers a true taste of rural Laos. Longtail boats drift past with schoolchildren, fresh produce and the occasional chicken, and life flows at a wonderfully relaxed pace.
Wish you could linger a little longer? You can. Add one or more extra nights here to explore the region or simply unwind. Highlights include:
• The 100 Waterfalls – A wet and wild jungle hike to a hidden cascade. Expect to get soaked. (Sturdy walking shoes recommended)
• Pha Daeng Peak – A 2-hour climb to a stunning viewpoint overlooking the village and river.
• Local life – Visit the morning market, take a riverside stroll, or relax with a book and a view of the Elephant Head Mountain from the pool.
Meals: breakfast
Accommodation: Nong Khiaw Resort
Excursions: not included
Price: €142.50
The landscapes surrounding Sapa are nothing short of spectacular – and they deserve an extra day. This optional extension takes you to the summit of Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina, via one of the longest cable cars in the world. As you glide above the Hoàng Liên Son Mountains, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views across the region.
At the top, surrounded by temples, pagodas and a towering Buddha statue, you’ll feel the stillness of a place steeped in spirit – a moment of reflection in the heart of your adventure.
Meals: breakfast
Transfer: 18 km + return cable car tickets included
Accommodation: Green Sapa Hotel
Price: €200.00
After breakfast, set out on foot for a scenic descent into the Muong Hoa Valley. Along the way, pass through the villages of Lao Chai and Ta Van – home to the Black Hmong and Giay minorities – surrounded by spectacular terraced rice fields.
This is a chance to truly connect with the land and its people. Local artisans may invite you to admire their handmade textiles, while panoramic views open out in every direction. End the day in a private bungalow in Ta Van – immersed in silence, sky and green.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Ta Van Homestay (private bungalow)
Price: €155.00
Sluit je fietsavontuur van Laos naar Vietnam af in pure stijl met een verblijf in een luxueus vijfsterrenhotel in het hart van Hanoi. Hier kun je jezelf onderdompelen in comfort en genieten van een welverdiend moment van ontspanning na dagen vol inspanning en ontdekkingen. De overgang van de rust van het platteland naar de dynamische hoofdstad zal even wennen zijn. Hanoi is hectisch, levendig en vol energie, met smalle straatjes, duizenden scooters en een bruisende sfeer. Maar juist die mix van drukte en historie maakt de stad zo fascinerend.
Bring your tailor-made cycling adventure from Laos to Vietnam to a graceful close with a stay at the elegant Peridot Grand Hotel in the heart of Hanoi. After days of mountain air and remote paths, the energy of Vietnam’s capital offers an exhilarating contrast. Expect thousands of scooters, winding alleyways and a fascinating blend of old and new.
Take in sights such as the Tran Quoc Pagoda, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature. In the evening, visit the world-famous Train Street, where café lanterns glow and trains pass just metres from your table – a magical farewell to Vietnam.
Meals: breakfast
Accommodation: Peridot Grand Hotel (5-star)
Price: €125.00 per person
Prefer a more relaxed city stay? Enjoy a final night in the Old Quarter at the welcoming Hong Ha Hotel – a charming three-star retreat in the heart of Hanoi. It’s the perfect place to unwind and take in the vibrant atmosphere of the city.
Explore Hanoi’s iconic landmarks at your own pace, and don’t miss Train Street at night – when lanterns light the alleys, and the old-world charm of the city comes alive.
Meals: breakfast
Accommodation: Hong Ha Hotel (3-star)
Price: €65.00 per person
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.
We hope to see you soon.
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