VIETNAM MOTORBIKE TOURS

NORTHWEST

EXPLORER TOUR

AN INCREDIBLE 1500KM and 10 DAY RIDE IN NORTHWEST VIETNAM

$3,190USD PER RIDER
[40% DISCOUNT FOR PILLION PASSENGERS]

TOUR DATES

October 15 -24 2026

March 26 - April 4 2027

May 21-30 2027

October 15 -24 2027

Total Mileage: 1500km

Vietnam Motorbike Tours

NORTHWEST

EXPLORER TOUR

10 DAYS | APPROX. 1,340 KM
HANOI TO HANOI

THE REAL VIETNAM - BEYOND THE MAP

Welcome to the Northwest Explorer Tour - an unforgettable journey through the spectacular
mountains and remote highlands of northern Vietnam.

From the vibrant streets of Hanoi, we ride deep into a region of towering mountains, cascading
rice terraces, winding passes and isolated villages rarely seen by the outside world. This is a land
where traditional ways of life remain strong and every day feels like stepping back in time.

The roads carve their way through some of Vietnam's most dramatic landscapes, delivering
endless twists and turns, breathtaking views and truly rewarding riding. Along the way, we meet
the local people, enjoy incredible Vietnamese food and experience the history, culture and
hospitality that make this country so special.

This is the Real Vietnam - deep in history, rich in culture and well beyond the map.

ROUTE AT A GLANCE

DAY 1
HANOI CITY TOUR

And so the adventure begins!

Our first day is spent exploring Hanoi, one of Asia's most fascinating and historic capitals. Our
guided city tour takes us beyond the usual tourist trail to discover some of Hanoi's remarkable
history, hidden backstreets and local neighbourhoods.

We visit important historical locations, including Hoa Lo Prison and the Vietnam People's Air Force
Museum, before enjoying a fantastic Vietnamese lunch.

The afternoon allows time to relax at our hotel or explore the laneways and walking streets of
Hanoi's famous Old Quarter. Filled with cafes, bars, restaurants, markets and traditional
shophouses, it is the perfect place to settle into Vietnam before our riding adventure begins.

DAY 2
HANOI TO MAI CHAU

140KM

Good Morning Vietnam!

The day we have all been waiting for has arrived. After breakfast, we check out of our hotel, load
our luggage into the support vehicle and complete our comprehensive rider briefing before
meeting our motorcycles.

Riding through Hanoi's seemingly chaotic traffic is an experience in itself - and surprisingly easy
and great fun. Before long, the city disappears behind us and the landscape opens into quiet
countryside, mountain roads and rural villages.

Our destination is beautiful Mai Chau, a peaceful valley surrounded by limestone mountains and
emerald-green rice fields. It feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of Hanoi - and a little
like stepping back in time.

Tonight, we settle into comfortable traditional-style accommodation and enjoy excellent local
food, cold drinks and the tranquil atmosphere of this remarkable valley.

DAY 3
MAI CHAU TO NGHIA LO

230KM

Now that we are comfortable aboard our trusty steeds, it is time to take the
adventure up a notch.

Leaving Mai Chau, we head north through an ever-changing landscape of peaceful villages,
farmland, forests and winding mountain roads. This is a fantastic full day in the saddle, with plenty
of twists, turns and spectacular views along the way.

We stop regularly to stretch our legs, take photographs and meet the local people. The small
villages and traditional farming communities provide a wonderful introduction to the culture and
everyday life of northern Vietnam.

The further we ride, the more remote the countryside becomes. By late afternoon, we arrive in
Nghia Lo, surrounded by mountains and some of the northwest's most productive rice-growing valleys.

DAY 4
NGHIA LO TO SON LA

170KM

Rise and shine - it is time for another brilliant day of riding.

Departing Nghia Lo, we continue deeper into Vietnam's mountainous northwest. The roads wind
their way through sweeping valleys, jungle-covered hills and traditional villages where daily life
has remained largely unchanged for generations.

This region is home to several ethnic communities, each with their own traditions, clothing and
way of life. We pass farmers working in the fields, children making their way to school and local
markets filled with colour and activity.

The combination of quiet roads, flowing corners and constantly changing scenery makes today a
true motorcycling adventure. Our overnight destination is Son La, a highland city surrounded by
rugged mountains and rich in the history and culture of northwestern Vietnam.

DAY 5
SON LA TO MU CANG CHAI

170KM

Today we ride into one of the most spectacular and photographed regions in
all of Vietnam.

Leaving Son La, the route takes us through remote mountain country, following winding roads
across high passes and through valleys dotted with small villages. Around every bend, another
incredible view seems to unfold before us.

As we approach Mu Cang Chai, the mountainsides become covered with magnificent terraced rice
fields, sculpted by local farmers over countless generations. Depending on the season, the
terraces can be brilliant green, golden yellow or filled with water that reflects the sky.

Mu Cang Chai is a truly special place - remote, peaceful and surrounded by some of the most
dramatic scenery in Vietnam. It is the perfect destination after another memorable day in the
saddle.

DAY 6
MU CANG CHAI TO SAPA

140KM

Good Morning Vietnam!

Today delivers another superb ride as we leave the rice terraces of Mu Cang Chai and continue
north towards Sapa. The road climbs through spectacular mountain scenery, with sweeping
bends, high passes and breathtaking views stretching far across the valleys below.

As we gain elevation, the air becomes cooler and the landscapes increasingly dramatic. Weather
permitting, we ride across the magnificent O Quy Ho Pass - one of Vietnam's highest and most
impressive mountain roads.

Our destination is Sapa, often described as the Town of Clouds. Sitting high in the Hoang Lien Son
Mountains, Sapa is surrounded by deep valleys, terraced rice fields and the towering peak of
Mount Fansipan.

This is one of Vietnam's most iconic mountain destinations and a fantastic place to spend the next
two nights.

DAY 7
SAPA

Good morning, Sapa!

After several rewarding days in the saddle, today gives us time to slow down and experience the
natural beauty and distinctive culture of this remarkable mountain region.

Wake to the cool mountain air and enjoy breakfast with views towards Mount Fansipan, the
highest mountain in Vietnam. During the day, we explore Sapa and the surrounding valley, home
to cascading rice terraces, traditional villages and a diverse mix of ethnic minority communities.

There is time to wander through the town, visit the local market, enjoy a coffee overlooking the
mountains or simply relax at the hotel. Those seeking a little more adventure can join us as we
explore the surrounding countryside.

The afternoon is yours to enjoy - perhaps book a massage, browse the local handicraft shops or
settle in with a cold drink and watch the clouds drift across the mountains.

DAY 8
SAPA TO BAC HA

160KM

The adventure continues.

Leaving Sapa, we ride back into the mountains and along some of the northwest's quieter and
less-travelled roads. Today offers another brilliant mixture of winding mountain passes, peaceful
valleys and remote farming communities.

The scenery is constantly changing as we pass through areas inhabited by several of northern
Vietnam's ethnic groups. Traditional clothing, mountainside farms and colourful village life provide
a fascinating window into the Real Vietnam.

With plenty of sweeping corners and incredible views, this is another rewarding day on two
wheels. By late afternoon, we arrive in Bac Ha, a relaxed mountain town known for its surrounding
villages, colourful local culture and traditional markets.

Tonight, we enjoy the friendly atmosphere of this small highland town and reflect on another
fantastic day of riding.

DAY 9
BAC HA TO YEN BAI

160KM

After breakfast, we saddle up and begin our journey south towards Yen Bai.

Leaving the mountains surrounding Bac Ha, we follow a wonderful collection of backroads through
forested hills, river valleys, farming communities and villages rarely visited by international
travellers.

This is what the Northwest Explorer is all about - travelling beyond the familiar tourist routes and
experiencing regions where life continues at its own pace. The riding is relaxed and enjoyable,
with flowing roads, changing landscapes and plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the
surroundings.

As we approach Yen Bai, the countryside gradually opens into broader valleys and fertile
farmland. We settle into our accommodation for the evening and enjoy one final night together
before our return ride to Hanoi.

DAY 10
YEN BAI TO HANOI

170KM

Our final day on the road has arrived - but the adventure is not over yet.

After breakfast, we leave Yen Bai and begin the ride back towards Hanoi. The route takes us
through peaceful countryside, local towns and farming villages, providing one last look at rural
northern Vietnam.

As we move closer to the capital, the quiet country roads gradually give way to the energy and
activity of the city. By now, we are well accustomed to riding in Vietnam, and navigating our way
back into Hanoi is all part of the experience.

We return our motorcycles before transferring to our welcoming hotel in the heart of the Old
Quarter.

Tonight, we celebrate an incredible journey with our fellow riders. Ten unforgettable days,
approximately 1,340 kilometres and countless memories from one of the most spectacular
motorcycling regions on earth.

Welcome back to Hanoi - and congratulations on completing the Northwest Explorer Tour.

This tour includes pre/post tour flights within Vietnam and one night pre/post tour accommodation.
Our personalized booking service with Aussie staff makes planning and booking easy.

WHY BOOK

WITH

VIETNAM MOTORBIKE TOURS?

Established in 2007, VMT is an Australian and Vietnamese-owned company that combines expert local knowledge with high western standards. This winning combination has resulted in incredible motorbike adventure tours.

Send us a message via our enquiry page.

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A temporary Vietnamese license can be arranged for you if desired.

We handle all the required paperwork, just ask when you make your booking.

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TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

See the real Vietnam, ride regions rarely seen by the outside world
Ride country back roads through the most stunning landscapes of Vietnam .
Deep in history rich in culture.
Visit traditional villages that seem unchanged for centuries
World Heritage & War history sites
Dine on the most incredible foods which Vietnam is world famed!
VMT tours are designed for riders & pillions seeking the ultimate adventure
Ranked top 3 best rides on earth

PACKED WITH EXTRAS

Airport pick up and transfers
Flights and transfers within Vietnam
Quality overnight stays with western style bathrooms and WiFi
Our famed VMT English speaking guides and support crew
Our fully maintained fleet of motorcycles which are comfy and perfect for touring Vietnam
All breakfasts, lunches and welcome dinner (special dietary requests available)

Detailed rider briefings, VMT t-shirt and touring map
Minivan for baggage transfers, carrying supplies, and limited seats for non-riders while on tour
Entrance tickets and permits
Limited third party and bike damage cover
All fuel, mechanical and spares
24 hour back-to-base support and field medical kit

TOUR INCLUSIONS

Personalized in-house booking manager, making planning a breeze .
Quality overnight stays, hotel & Homestay - all with wifi. single room upgrade available
complimentary one night pre & post-tour accommodation
airport pick up as per itinerary
Domestic flights within Vietnam “as per tour itinerary”
Detailed rider breifing covering all aspects of the tour
Expert guide Lead guide & VMT support crew
Lifan motorcycle & fuel . fully serviced & maintained . prefect for touring Vietnam.
Support chase Minivan, seats passengers & bagagge transfers.
All Breakfast & lunches - one welcome dinner
VMT T-shirt - Cap - Vietnam touring map
Endless bottled water, fruits & snacks
Field medical kit - 24hr back-to-base support
Motorcycle damage cover - 3rd limited party cover
Return motorcycle freight to headquarters

NOT INCLUDED

Motorcycle riding gear
International flights - visa
Personal travel insurance
All riders must have travel insurance
(must include motorcycling cover)
Dinner meals - beverages