Name: COMPRESSED NORTHWEST VIETNAM MOTORBIKE TOUR TO SAPA, MU CANG CHAI
Brand: Indochina Motorbike Tours
Availability: PreOrder
Rating: 5 (368 reviews)

Tour Overview & Highlights

5 DAYS EXPEDITION

This 5-day Northwest Vietnam Motorbike Tour to Sapa, Mu Cang Chai, Lai Chau via Nghia Lo, Than Uyen, Luc Yen gives you a chance to explore the best features of Northern Vietnam with high mountains, beautiful landscapes, green terraces, offroad ridings into remotes villages to learn more about the real life of locals and taste so many different local foods ...

Trip's Video

OFFICIAL EXPEDITION FOOTAGE · 4K

Expedition Route Map

GPS TRACKS · 5 DAYS

Detailed Tour Itinerary

5 DAYS · DAY-BY-DAY ROUTE

* Brief Itinerary:

Day 1: Hanoi Motorcycle Tour to Phu Yen (Son La)

Day 2: Phu Yen Motorcycle Tour to Nghia Lo – Mu Cang Chai (Yen Bai)

Day 3: Mu Cang Chai Motorcycle Tour via Than Uyen (Lai Chau) to Sapa – Sapa Motorbike Tour to Hilltribe’s Villages

Day 4: Sapa Motorcycle Tour to Thac Ba Reservoir – Vu Linh Village (Yen Bai)

Day 5: Vu Linh village (Thac Ba lake) Motorcycle Tour back to Hanoi

01

Day 1: Northwest Vietnam Motorbike Tour to Sapa, Mu Cang Chai, Lai Chau: Hanoi Motorcycle Tours To Phu Yen (Son La)

In the morning we start our Vietnam Northwest motorbike tour by leaving the crowded & chaotic Hanoi on dyke roads to avoid the heavy traffic and breaking out of the delta plains. We’ll then just follow the backroads out of Hanoi skirting along Red River and shortcuts via rice-fields to Son Tay where ew’ll stop to have a cup of coffee before keeping on riding through peaceful countryside to Phu Yen mountain town (a district of Son La Province in the Northwestern region of Vietnam), as a stop-over for a night.

Before reaching the hotel for a check-in, our guide will take you a ride around the valley with local villages to experience the sunset as well as beautiful landscapes of this region with stream, rice fields, bamboo trees …
Stay in guest house

Summary:
Distance: 160 km
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Guest-house

02

Day 2: Northwest Vietnam Motorbike Tour to Sapa, Mu Cang Chai, Lai Chau: Phu Yen Motorcycle Tour To Nghia Lo – Mu Cang Chai (Yen Bai)

In the morning, we keep motorbiking across Lung Lo pass before head up on Road 32 .
During the First Indochina War, the 15km-long Lung Lo Pass, used by the Vietnamese resistance force to transport weapons, goods and food during the Dien Bien Phu campaign of 1954, was heavily bombed by the French in order to sever the front lines from the rear.

Lung Lo Pass, situated in the northern province of Yen Bai, was also recognized as a national heritage by the ministry. After lunch, we ride through the Mu Cang Chai massif, almost as high as the Fansipan. From the top, it offers one of the most beautiful views of North Vietnam. The ride is challenging but very rewarding.
Overnight in a hotel.

Summary:
Distance: 180 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel

03

Day 3: Northwest Vietnam Motorbike Tour to Sapa, Mu Cang Chai, Lai Chau: Mu Cang Chai Motorbike Tour via Than Uyen To Sapa (Lao Cai)

In this morning, We’ll keep motorbiking straight toward the main Fansipan Mountain range via Than Uyen town of Lai Chau. There is also the option for a very challenging back route which takes us through several river crossings. The massive mountain range dominates the road until finally we must make a splendid climb up from Binh Lu and up to the top of the highest road pass in Vietnam (Tram Ton Pass).

Crossing into Lao Cai Province at over 2,000m the views looks out over the main range for miles and miles, before we descend to the mountainous Sa Pa valley. Sa Pa is located in Lao Cai Province, north-west Vietnam, and 350 km north-west of Hanoi, close to the border with China. Sapa is famous both for its fine, rugged scenery and for its rich cultural diversity.

Mu Cang Chai Motorbike Tour via Than Uyen To Sapa

French used to consider Sapa as Summer Capital of Northern Vietnam in the early decades of the 20th century. Its naturally gifted beauty keeps attracting more and more people to spend their vacation there since then. Particularly, the place is the foremost choice for honeymoon couples!
Overnight in Hotel.

Summary:
Distance: 160 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel

04

Day 4: Northwest Vietnam Motorbike Tour to Sapa, Mu Cang Chai, Lai Chau: Sapa Motorcycle Tour to Thac Ba Reservoir – Vu Linh Village (Yen Bai)

Take our motorbikes down from Sapa to Lao Cai City and then have a coffee-stop on the bank of Nam Thi river, which is Vietnam – China border. Enjoy your coffee while taking the view to China.
Head to Road 70 before turning via Luc Yen on Road 152 with palm forests and lots of high mountains, deep valleys to Vu Linh village of Dzao ethnic minority located on the side of Thac Ba reservoir which is the biggest man-made lake in Vietnam. This artificial lake has an area of 23,400 ha and 1,331 islands and hills with diverse ecological environments.

The water in the lake is blue and clear, and imprinted with the reflections of the surrounding ancient forest. The thousands of hills and islands feature caves such as the Hum, Cau Cuoi and Bach Xa. After lunch, we take the boat ride, stop by an island for swimming and discover the particularities of this area: the way villagers paddle their boats, the exotic and odd animals living around, the quiet and peaceful beauty of this huge lake, the lifestyle of the Dao among the thousands of islets.

We will have an unforgettable dinner with the hosts, whose are really big drinkers and they party every day. The welcome is exceptional and we hope you will survive.

Summary:
Distance: 220 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Home-stay

05

Day 5 : Northwest Vietnam Motorbike Tour to Sapa, Mu Cang Chai, Lai Chau: Vu Linh Village (Thac Ba Lake) Motorcycle Tour To Hanoi

After breakfast we ride southeast on Highway 2 and then branch off to the sleepy town of Phu Tho. We follow the edge of the Red River along the dyke, almost to the point where it merges with the Black River after which they flow together to Hanoi.

By now we are very much in the lowlands of the delta plains and the north’s main agricultural areas. Harvest time here is a sea of activity. Crossing the Black River by bridge, we pass through Son Tay and then return to Hanoi on the highway. We should be back to Hanoi before rush-hour (4 pm) because traffic’s getting busier and busier.

Summary:
Distance: 180 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.

End of services

The Motorbikes: Your Choice of Machine

PREMIUM ADVENTURE FLEET · EXPERTLY MAINTAINED

Our motorcycle fleet features genuine, modern adventure-touring and dual-sport machines built for all terrains—from winding tarmac mountain passes like O Quy Ho, Hai Van, and Ma Pi Leng to rugged backcountry trails.

Thoroughly Inspected — Before Every Tour

Daily Pro Inspection — Certified Mechanics

Full Touring Rigging — Racks, Bars & USB

FLAGSHIP ADVENTURE · 1,254 CC Fleet Ready

BMW Motorrad R 1250 GS

The king of long-distance adventure touring

The BMW Motorrad R 1250 GS is more than just a motorcycle – it’s a symbol of freedom and adventure. With its cutting-edge technology, robust performance, and rider-focused design, it is undoubtedly the best choice for those joining our Vietnam Big Bike Tours.

Engine Air Liquid Cooled, Twin Cylinder, DOHC
Power / Torque 136 bhp · 143 Nm @ 6,250 RPM
Kerb weight 249 kg
Seat height 850 / 870 mm adjustable
Fuel capacity 20 L (400+ km range)

View Machine Details

ADVENTURE · 270 CC Fleet Ready

CFMOTO 450MT

CFMOTOR CFMOTO 450MT · Model 2025

Why the CFMOTO 450MT is Perfect for Adventure Motorcycle Tours in Vietnam The CFMOTO 450MT is purpose-built to bridge the gap between heavy tourers and lightweight trail bikes. Engineered with genuine off-road geometry and long-travel suspension, it gives riders complete control on narrow tracks and technical trails where heavier bikes become exhausting. During our Vietnam...

Engine Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke parallel-twin, DOHC, 270° crankshaft
Power / Torque 45 bhp · 40 Nm @ 6,000 RPM
Kerb weight 175 kg
Seat height 820 mm (adjustable down to 800 mm or up to 870 mm with rally seat)
Fuel capacity 17.5 liters

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ADVENTURE · 471 CC Fleet Ready

Honda CB500X

Agile parallel-twin adventure tourer for mountain twisties

The Honda CB500X is built for riders who crave both adventure and comfort. From Northern Vietnam mountain routes to epic Trans-Vietnam motorcycle tours, this versatile ADV bike delivers smooth handling, reliable performance, and the freedom to explore Vietnam’s most breathtaking landscapes.

Engine 2 cylinder, 4 stroke
Power / Torque 47 bhp · 43 Nm @ 6,500 RPM
Kerb weight 197 kg
Seat height 830 mm
Fuel capacity 17.5 L (450+ km range)

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DUAL SPORT · 249 CC Fleet Ready

Honda CRF250L

Proven, reliable dual-sport for technical trail adventures

The Honda CRF250L is a proven dirt bike designed for riders who love off-road adventures. With its agile frame, reliable Honda engineering, and smooth handling, it’s the perfect motorcycle for exploring Vietnam’s rugged mountain trails, jungle tracks, and remote villages on a Vietnam Dirt Bike Tour.

Engine Single cylinder, 4 stroke, 4 valve, DOHC
Power / Torque 24 bhp · 22 Nm @ 7,000 RPM
Kerb weight 144 kg
Seat height 875 mm
Fuel capacity 7.8 L (lightweight agile range)

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DUAL SPORT · 286 CC Fleet Ready

Honda CRF300L

The undisputed king of Vietnam off-road & single tracks

The Honda CRF300L is the ultimate dirt bike for riders craving off-road adventures in Vietnam. From rugged mountain trails to jungle tracks and river crossings, this lightweight dual-sport machine delivers agility, power, and excitement. Perfect for Vietnam Dirt Bike Tours and enduro lovers who want to explore beyond the pavement.

Engine Liquid- cooled, Single, DOHC
Power / Torque 27 bhp · 26.6 Nm @ 6,500 RPM
Kerb weight 142 kg
Seat height 880 mm
Fuel capacity 7.8 L (lightweight agile range)

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DUAL SPORT · 149 CC Fleet Ready

Honda XR150L

Accessible, economical dual-sport for backroads & scenic loops

The Honda XR150L is built for riders seeking both reliability and affordability on their Vietnam journeys. With smooth handling, strong fuel efficiency, and off-road capability, this bike is a favorite choice for Vietnam motorcycle tours, whether cruising rural backroads or venturing into remote landscapes.

Engine Air-cooled, single-cylinder, four-stroke dual-sport
Power / Torque 12 bhp · 12.5 Nm @ 6,000 RPM
Kerb weight 129 kg
Seat height 825 mm
Fuel capacity 12 L (450+ km range)

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Explore Full Motorcycle Fleet

Important Tour Advice · Read Before Riding

ESSENTIAL BOOKING & EXPEDITION TERMS

01

Customized Itineraries: We can customize routes according to your preferred dates, schedule, and riding interests. Just let us know your requirements.

02

Booking & Deposit: Booking is confirmed once we receive a deposit of 30% of the total tour cost. A secure online payment link will be provided.

03

Travel Insurance: Personal travel and medical insurance is compulsory for all riders participating in motorcycle adventure tours.

04

Technical Support: In case of technical breakdown, we replace the bike with the same type. If an issue shortens your ride, you are refunded for unused days.

05

Rider Experience: All riders must be healthy, physically fit, and confident in their motorbiking ability for medium-to-large displacement motorcycles.

06

Flexible Rescheduling: Deposits are non-refundable, but you are free to postpone your booking to another date should unforeseen changes arise.

What's Included & Excluded

5 DAYS · ALL-INCLUSIVE EXPEDITION

What's Included

Motorbike(s) (Honda or Yamaha)
Helmet(s)
Driving gears
Gasoline on tour
English speaking guide
Mechanic (only for group from 6 passengers)
Accommodation as indicated in the itinerary (based on twin or/and triple shared)
Homestay permission
Meals as indicated in the itinerary
Entrance fees & Sightseeing fees
Fruits & Coffee on tour

What's Excluded

Travel insurance
Visa
Air-ticket
Tips
Personal expenses

Price & Reservation

TRANSPARENT PRICING · DIRECT LOCAL BOOKING

All-inclusive per rider

Contact

Deposit to hold a place30% deposit upon confirmation

Payment termsBalance due on arrival / prior to tour

Motorcycle choiceIncluded with fuel & gears

Group format2 - 10 Riders (Max 12)

DIRECT OPERATOR GUARANTEE

All tours are organized and operated directly by Indochina Motorbike Tours. Experienced English-speaking road captains, professional mechanics, and 24/7 dedicated support.

TALK TO A LOCAL EXPERT

Have questions about route difficulty, bike selection, or customized dates? Our tour specialists are ready to help you plan the ride.

WhatsApp Us

TripAdvisor Reviews

VERIFIED TRAVELER FEEDBACK

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 207 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Garry A 
 
 
 
 Verified Awesome Riding Adventure
5 of us did the 10 day Northern Vietnam Off-road Loop at the end of November, very ably assisted by by our guide, Giang, and support vehicle driver, Dong.We logged over 1800km in 9 days of riding, saw some absolutely amazing scenery, partook in local delicacies, met and partied with ethnic people and had an epic trip.Everything around the trip was managed efficiently by Mike Dong, including organising Vietnamese drivers licences for us all. The bikes we had (CRF300L) performed well with only two flat tyres to speak of. The accommodation choices (apart from one night) were comfortable and adequate, the meals were delicious and plentiful.The whole trip went like clockwork and we got to see places few other tourist would ever get to see.I would definitely recommend this tour or shorter trips if you feel 10 days is a bit much.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Go21589563690 
 
 
 
 Verified Unforgettable 12-day trip from Hanoi to Saigon
We highly recommend the 12-day trip from Hanoi to Saigon. The organization was excellent from start to finish. The day before, we were personally briefed by the company owner, received all important details and felt well prepared.Our guide Cong was just awesome. We felt safe at all times and were allowed to experience small cultural excursions practically every day. He showed us beautiful places, introduced us to local culture and was able to tell us an incredible amount about the country. We were also spoiled culinary – we ate very fine every day.An absolutely unique experience, perfectly organized and with a guide who made our experience unforgettable. Clear recommendation!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   P w 
 
 
 
 Verified Great bike tour for 6 days, north west Vietnam
Brilliant 6 days, the tours are road based with a little bit of riding on un paved roads, Ducky was our guide, ex-road racer which suited us as we like to push on. Was amazing to see all the villagers, people waving, nothing like miserable old England where everyone thinks your doing something illegal. Homesteads were great, food nothing to say as always the best. Get it booked and take your holiday to +10.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Ian W 
 
 
 
 Verified Am absolutely amazing ten days in northern Vietnam
We did a 10 day tour. Lihn was our guide. Great guy. We had a Canadian guy join us, so 4 in total. Amazing time, 10 days few by. I had a gopro on my helmet facing forward, Lihn had one facing back. Michael, the owner has put all the footage together and made a great video.We are now looking at another trip with these guys.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Compass40778616391 
 
 
 
 Verified Incredible life experience
Indochina Bike Tours ran a very relax but very professional motorcycle tour and over the 14 day North Vietnam,2400km ride everyday was full of challenges and wonder natural and cultural surprise.Absoulutly everything was fully catered for and supplied , all you have to do is wake up and thumb the starter button.Great company and great ride.Highly recommended. Absoulutly incredible experience.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Niels M 
 
 
 
 Verified Unic and special experience
Great adventure, the guide and the driver where verry kindly.A lot of adventure, drinke and food.Verry nice experience
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   erik m 
 
 
 
 Verified Very good
We where with 4 guys and had a great time!Great stays with good food and vieuws, also beautiful roads and offroad paths.Our guide Son was a very good and funny guy! Thank you all for this awesome time!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   jvbn 
 
 
 
 Verified Great 12 Day Tour through Northern Vietnam
We had a great trip with Ducky and Son showing us hidden offroad tracks and beautiful sceneries in Northern Vietnam. They were also very professional whenever something on the bike required fixing. The homestays and hotels were well selected, providing a great experience of local culture and cuisine. Can highly recommend the trip!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Getaway28493855013 
 
 
 
 Verified Great tour!
Riding with Insochina motorbike tour was a great experience. This was my first time on a motorbike tour and my first time in Vietnam. Our guide Tony was excellent.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Rochelle E 
 
 
 
 Verified 10 Days
Completed the 10 Day trip. It was guided and tailored to our riding abilities. Sadly we came at a time with flooding and could not complete some tracks because of this. The food was amazing at every location. Homestays were fantastic, nice people. Ducky had good knowledge about the locations and good recommendations

Comments & Discussion

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS

2 Comments

brian gocke

7 years ago

Hello
I am interested in the Compressed Northwest to Sapa tour and would like pricing per day
Possibly for 3 to 5 riders, we are thinking of around late October/ November,
Anymore details you could give me would be great
Thanks Brian

0

Reply

Mark Coleman

7 years ago

Very interested in this tour could you please give me some prices for three to four people thank you

0

Reply

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