Halong Bay Motorbike Tour From Hanoi: 10 Thrilling Days

Introduction

Intro

Just about 170 km away from Hanoi, Halong Bay is a natural wonder that attracts thousands of visitors each year. Its magnificent beauty is, no doubt, on the radar of both novice and experienced riders. Calling all thrill seekers! Why not take the experience to a new height with an offroad adventure? This 10-day Halong Bay motorbike tour from Hanoi will make your hearts bump with joy and anticipation!

10-Day Halong Bay Motorbike Tour From Hanoi

Day 1: Hanoi –  Nghia Lo Motorbike Tour

When Hanoi streets were buzzing with traffic, our tour guide picked us up from our hotel for a quick safety briefing. After checking up on our motorbikes, we hit the road for a 4 km leisurely ride along the Red River.  Instead of honking cars and trucks, life on the river’s bank was hustling yet contrastingly peaceful in its own way. Ferries, boats, and tiny dings crisscrossed the river, stirring up a wave of vibrant commotion. The tranquil fishing villages and massive cornfields lining the shore seemed to absorb all the hustle and bustle, giving us a sense of calm. As the lively noises faded into thin air, we entered a 60 km scenic route to Trung Ha Bridge. After lunch, we crossed Xuan Son National Park and navigated a mix of offroad and backroad tracks. Riding through another two long roads led us to Nghia Lo for an overnight stay. In the gentle embrace of its pleasant weather, our fatigue seemed to melt away. If you arrive here early, spend time exploring Muong Lo Market, Con Nghia Lo, or Ho Chi Minh Memorial Area.

Day 2: Nghia Lo – Sapa Motorbike Trip

The second day of our 10-day Halong Bay motorbike tour was a daunting 230 km ride. For the first 50 km, our motorbikes wound through untouched landscapes with verdant rice terraces stretching to the horizon. Our team stopped for a pick-me-up coffee break before tackling the twisting offroad route ahead. Following National Route 32, we reached the peak of the Parasailing site for a once-in-a-lifetime photo hunt.  From the cloud-kissed mountains, we could admire the vibrant Tu Le Valley and the imposing Khau Pha Pass – our next challenge. It is one of the rickiest and longest passes in Vietnam, with rugged roads twisted up like a treacherous snake, waiting to frighten us. The thrilling 32 km pass led us through other breathtaking sceneries. We stopped at the La Pan Tan mountain peak to take in the magnificent panoramic view of the untamed valley around its foot.  Next was the must-visit Mu Cang Chai, where lush terraced rice fields carpeted the town, painting it in vibrant green. After lunch there, we set off for the imposing O Quy Ho Pass – another dangerous pass in the region. On our way down, the sky donned its indigo shade of twilight, softening the jagged mountains. We pulled over to soak in the otherworldly beauty of nature and witness the fiery sun melt into orange-yellow streaks. Sapa then welcomed us with a cool respite after the many challenges of the day trip.

Day 3: Sapa – Bac Ha Market Motorbike Route

We kicked off the day by exploring Sapa’s most distinctive attractions on our motorbikes. We headed for Sin Chai valley, then rode through Cat Cat village. After crossing a short off-road section, we continued along National Highway 4D and eventually reached Khoang Village, uncovering Ta Phin valley. We took a short break before rolling into Lao Chai – Ta Van valley and Sau Chua Peak.  Our next stop was Y Linh Ho village on the other side of the mountain. Then we moved on to Ta Van village, where we enjoyed lunch at a homestay. The road from Y Linh Ho to Ta Van was newly paved, with medium curves and beautiful scenery on both sides. For a perfect off-road adventure with a better view, we turned onto the small twisting road parallel to provincial Road 153 to reach Bac Ha Market. This market was a superb example of a traditional highland market, teeming with vibrant colors and captivating fragrances from street food stalls. Not only was Bac Ha a central trading hub, but it was also a love nest for young singles searching for their destined life partner. After exploring the market, we arrived at our hotel to check in around 5:30 pm.

Day 4: Bac Ha – Xin Man – Ha Giang Motorcycle Tour

We embarked on an exhilarating journey that left us breathless and in awe, exploring the paradise of natural grandeur – Ha Giang. Among its magnificent attractions, we discovered the Hoang Su Phi rice terraces, a national tourism gem nestled amidst challenging off-road trails, cloud-kissed peaks, and perilous mountain passes. Leaving Bac Ha town, we had two adventurous routes to consider.  Opting for the old provincial Road 153 led us through Coc Pai town, a quaint settlement in Xin Man District bustling with the region’s highest ethnic market. Alternatively, a rugged 40 km off-road trek awaited us. After a brief coffee break, we ventured another 20 km off-road to Phung village before crossing into Vinh Quang town for a hearty lunch. Traversing the breathtaking rice-terraced valleys of Hoang Su Phi was a highlight of our journey.  Although an off-road route to Ha Giang was tempting, we decided against it due to the late hour, opting instead for National Highway 2 towards Ha Giang City. Renowned for its picturesque buckwheat flowers, Ha Giang captivated us with its natural splendor, featuring majestic peaks like Chieu Lau Thi, Tay Con Linh, and the legendary Ma Pi Leng Pass. As evening descended, we found respite at Truong Xuan Resort, a tranquil haven where we could unwind after a day of exhilarating drives through Ha Giang’s rugged terrain.

Day 5: Ha Giang – Meo Vac Motorcycle Trip

Kicking off the 5th day of our PG1 adventure tours with a delightful breakfast, we embarked on the off-road route through Ha Giang, a journey that allowed us to savor the pristine beauty and marvels on wheels. The road meandered through dense forests and crossed stunning waterfalls, prompting us to pause at Lung Tam, a traditional weaving village, for memorable snapshots. A highlight of our adventure was Quan Ba Valley, a breathtaking sight from an altitude of nearly 800 meters. Below us sprawled Quan Ba with its lush hills, verdant meadows, hidden caves, and a tapestry of multicolored plum and peach trees, medicinal plants, and orchids. It was a scene straight out of a postcard, blending natural wonders seamlessly. Continuing our exploration, we opted to follow the main road, discovering the Yen Minh pine forest nestled in Yen Minh town between Quan Ba and Dong Van. Alternatively, we veered off onto a 20 km off-road stretch, immersing ourselves once again in the unspoiled nature and daily life of the locals. After a satisfying lunch in Yen Minh town, we leisurely made our way to the capital of the Rock Plateau, where we visited an ancient lord-house belonging to the H’Mong people. Our journey then led us to conquer one of Vietnam’s renowned four passes – the awe-inspiring Ma Pi Leng Pass along the fabled Happy Road, overlooking the majestic Nho Que River. Known as Northern Vietnam’s most challenging pass, Ma Pi Leng greeted us with its dramatic cliffs and breathtaking vistas, especially magical during dusk. As night fell, we returned to our hotel, where a hearty dinner awaited us, capping off a day filled with unforgettable experiences and natural wonders in Ha Giang.

Day 6: Dong Van – Bao Lac – Quang Uyen Motorcycle Route

Today, our journey took us to Cao Bang Province, renowned for its spectacular array of tourist attractions: Ban Gioc Waterfall, Pac Po Cave, Nguom Ngao Cave, Lenin Stream, and the breathtaking 15-storeyed pass curve. Our crew embarked on a dream ride, navigating a thrilling mix of on-road and off-road paths, each offering captivating scenery along the way. Depending on weather conditions and the skills of our riders, we carefully selected the most suitable and exhilarating routes, always prepared with alternative plans to ensure a seamless adventure. Our first stop was the Khau Vai Love Market, situated on the outskirts of Meo Vac commune. Beyond its role as a trading hub, this market holds a special significance for lovers who reunite here annually despite being unable to stay together throughout the year. Continuing onwards, we traversed challenging roads with twists, uphill climbs, and winding descents to reach Bao Lac in Cao Bang province, where we enjoyed a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. With the rugged beauty of Quang Uyen unfolding before us, we were treated to landscapes of unparalleled charm and uniqueness. Moving westward along the Vietnam-China frontier, we were surrounded by towering limestone mountains, lush cornfields, and quaint villages, each contributing to the region’s picturesque allure. As the day drew to a close, we checked into a cozy homestay in Cao Bang, reflecting on a day filled with adventure, cultural richness, and the natural splendor of Northern Vietnam.

Day 7: Quang Uyen – Ban Gioc Waterfall – Nguom Ngao Cave – Bac Son Valley Motorbike Tour

We set off to cover a 210 km journey, anticipating seven hours of riding through the marvelous landscapes of Cao Bang and Lang Son provinces. Cao Bang greeted us with one of nature’s most stunning spectacles – Ban Gioc waterfall. The waterfall cascaded in multiple levels, the green jade water pooling into a vast, serene lake below. We chose to go boating and swimming near the falls, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty without being crowded by tourists.  The Vietnam-China frontier splits the waterfall and river in half, so we saw numerous Chinese tourists on the other side. After rejuvenating with a cup of coffee, we departed for Nguom Ngao Cave. We spent 45 minutes marveling at the cave’s countless stalactites and stalagmites, each with unique shapes and sizes. Following our lunch at Quang Uyen, we embarked on an excursion to Bac Son Valley, renowned as an ideal site for cloud hunting at Na Lay Peak.  Standing atop the peak at around 600 meters above sea level, the panoramic view of Bac Son was breathtaking, making our effort of climbing 1,200 steps completely worthwhile. Arriving at a homestay in the village, we blended in the local culture, learning about and experiencing the unique craftsmanship of roof tiles – an exotic feature of all houses in the area. We rounded off the day with a leisurely stroll around the village and enjoyed some beer, savoring the stunning views.

Day 8: Bac Son – Halong Bay Motorbike Trip

Departing from Bac Son, fondly known as the valley of love and reminiscence, we chose to veer away from the bustling National Highway 1 or 18 that leads to Halong Bay. Instead, we opted for a more serene route, guiding us through Khe Ro’s ancient forest and along the spiritual path west of Yen Tu, eventually arriving at Ha Long. The Yen Tu nature reserve, spanning five communes including Thanh Son, Tuan Mau, Thanh Luan, An Lac, and Luc Son, greeted us with its tranquil, beautiful landscapes and rich cultural heritage.  This national landmark annually attracts millions of travelers, offering both spiritual solace and breathtaking natural vistas. Yen Tu holds particular significance as a sacred Buddhist site where King Tran Nhan Tong attained enlightenment, marking the inception of a distinct Vietnamese Buddhist tradition. Following a satisfying lunch at Yen Tu, we continued our journey toward Quang Ninh Province, renowned for its coal industry and home to the vibrant Ha Long City. By late afternoon, we arrived at a cozy hotel in Halong City, ready to unwind with a hearty supper complemented by refreshing beer and delectable, freshly caught seafood.

Day 9: A Relaxing Day On A Lavish Cruise In Halong Bay

After days of riding hard, we finally allowed ourselves a bit more rest, sleeping in until 9 in the morning. The fresh start began with a hearty breakfast and a strong cup of Vietnamese coffee. Feeling refreshed, we wandered around the city, taking in the sights either by bike or on foot. Our adventure continued as we embarked on a cruise to explore the World Heritage Site of Halong Bay. At 1 pm, we enjoyed a delicious lunch while the cruise glided across the bay, showcasing the majestic and awe-inspiring natural beauty. Halong Bay teemed with scenic splendor, archaeological and geological marvels, rich cultural and historical connections, and fresh seafood. This distinctive fusion made the place one of Mother Earth’s most incredible natural wonders and one of Vietnam’s prized treasures. In the afternoon, we disembarked at Titov Island, climbing 430 steps to reach the top and take in the panoramic view of Halong Bay from above. The sight was truly breathtaking. After descending, we returned to the cruise and joined a cooking class led by the cruise chefs, where we learned the secrets to making perfect spring rolls. Dinner was served at around 7 pm, and afterward, we indulged in a bit of night fishing for cuttlefish, wrapping up an enjoyable and unwinding day on our cruise ship.

Day 10: Halong Bay – Hanoi Motorbike Route

Following a delightful light breakfast accompanied by a steaming cup of coffee, we embarked on an exploration of Sung Sot Cave, aptly named the Cave of Astonishment, nestled within the majestic Halong Bay. This expansive cave dazzled us with its intricate formations of stalactites and stalagmites, sculpted into unique shapes reminiscent of an ancient banyan tree adorned with lush foliage.  Among the largest caves globally, covering an impressive area of 10,000 square meters, Sung Sot Cave offered us breathtaking vistas from its highest peak, revealing a serene landscape akin to a royal garden surrounding a pristine pond. After indulging in a sumptuous brunch buffet, we bid farewell to our hotel at 11:30 a.m. and began our journey back to Hanoi, the bustling capital city. Opting for the safest and most scenic route, we navigated through the tranquil levees, ensuring a smooth return home before the rush hour commenced. Our Vietnam motorbike tours to Halong Bay and beyond have come to a close, leaving us with memories of natural wonders, cultural discoveries, and moments of tranquility amidst Vietnam’s picturesque landscapes.

Final Thoughts

Ten days on a motorbike may seem daunting, but this Halong Bay motorbike tour from Hanoi is more than just a journey. It’s a chance to disconnect from the everyday, reconnect with nature, and push our limits. Share this post with your fellows, and hit the road now! What riders have said about PG-1 Adventure Tours on Tripadvisor!