.jpg "Cycle Northern East Vietnam 6 Days")
.jpg "Cycle Northern East Vietnam 6 Days")
.jpg "Cycle Northern East Vietnam 6 Days")
.jpg "Cycle Northern East Vietnam 6 Days")
.jpg "Cycle Northern East Vietnam 6 Days")
.jpg "Cycle Northern East Vietnam 6 Days")
.jpg "Cycle Northern East Vietnam 6 Days")
.jpg "Cycle Northern East Vietnam 6 Days")
.jpg "Cycle Northern East Vietnam 6 Days")
.webp "Cycle Northern East Vietnam 6 Days")
.jpg "Cycle Northern East Vietnam 6 Days")
.webp "Cycle Northern East Vietnam 6 Days")
.jpg "Cycle Northern East Vietnam 6 Days")
.jpeg "Cycle Northern East Vietnam 6 Days")
Overview
Embark on a definitive journey through the soul of the northern frontier with our "6-Day Cycle Northern Vietnam" expedition. This meticulously designed itinerary is more than a tour; it is a profound exploration of Vietnam’s most dramatic landscapes, from the shimmering "sea on the mountain" at Thac Ba Lake to the thundering cascades of Ban Gioc Waterfall—one of the world's most beautiful border falls.
Throughout this 6-day challenge, you will traverse a kaleidoscopic landscape of limestone karsts, lush jungle canopies, and vibrant terraced fields. We begin our journey by leaving the urban rhythm of Hanoi behind, heading toward the tranquil waters of Thac Ba, home to the Dzao people. As we push further north through Chiem Hoa and into Ba Be National Park, the terrain becomes more demanding and the scenery more rewarding.
The true test of your mettle awaits on the legendary passes toward Tinh Tuc and Cao Bang, where every hairpin turn unveils a new perspective of the UNESCO Global Geopark. Finally, you will reach the crowning jewel of the North-East: the majestic Ban Gioc Waterfall, where the emerald water plunges into a valley shared with the Chinese border. This tour is engineered for those who crave authentic connection, physical achievement, and the raw beauty of the road less traveled. With a professional support team and top-tier gear, we ensure your only focus is the rhythm of your ride and the breathtaking horizon ahead.
Highlights
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Thac Ba Lake Immersion: Experience the serenity of one of Vietnam’s largest reservoirs and enjoy the warm hospitality of the White Dzao people in traditional stilt houses.
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Ba Be National Park: Cycle through the "Green Heart" of the north, exploring the emerald waters and limestone caves of Vietnam’s premier natural freshwater lake.
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The Tinh Tuc Challenge: Test your climbing skills on the high-altitude passes leading to the historic mining town of Tinh Tuc, offering some of the best mountain vistas in the country.
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Ban Gioc Waterfall: Witness the sheer power and beauty of the fourth largest border waterfall in the world, a truly iconic sight to conclude your journey.
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Nguom Ngao Cave Exploration: Step into a subterranean wonderland of stalactites and stalagmites in one of the most impressive cave systems in Northern Vietnam.
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Cultural Crossroads: Daily interactions with Tay, Nung, Hmong, and Dzao ethnic minorities, witnessing a way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries.
4. Brief Itinerary
Day 1: Hanoi – Thac Ba Lake: The Gateway to the Highlands
After a brief transfer to avoid the city traffic, our cycling journey begins. We ride through the peaceful outskirts toward Thac Ba Lake. The trail winds through low-lying hills and fruit orchards before reaching the lakeside. Spend the evening in a traditional stilt house of the Dzao people, enjoying a "family dinner" that introduces you to the flavors of the north.
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Route: Hanoi – Doan Hung – Thac Ba
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Cycling Distance: ~80 km
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Road Condition: Paved roads, undulating hills, and scenic lakeside paths.
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Highlight: Sunset over Thac Ba Lake and authentic Dzao hospitality.
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Meals: L/D | Accommodation: Traditional Homestay
Day 2: Thac Ba Lake – Chiem Hoa: Into the Remote Valleys
We depart the lake and head north-west toward Tuyen Quang province. The ride today is a beautiful blend of river views and rustic villages. As we approach Chiem Hoa, you will see the limestone peaks begin to rise more sharply from the ground. This is a region of quiet beauty, where the sound of your tires on the tarmac is often the only thing you’ll hear.
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Route: Thac Ba – Tuyen Quang – Chiem Hoa
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Cycling Distance: ~85 km
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Road Condition: Paved roads with light traffic and rolling terrain.
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Highlight: Cycling along the Lo River and exploring the quiet charm of Chiem Hoa.
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Meals: B/L/D | Accommodation: Local Hotel
Day 3: Chiem Hoa – Ba Be National Park: The Emerald Kingdom
A day of climbing and discovery. We head toward the Ba Be National Park, crossing through dense forests and ethnic hamlets. The final approach to Ba Be is spectacular, as the road descends into a lush valley surrounded by massive limestone giants. We finish the day at the edge of the lake, where the air is pure and the scenery is incomparable.
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Route: Chiem Hoa – Cho Ra – Ba Be Lake
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Cycling Distance: ~75 km
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Road Condition: Hilly terrain with some steep climbs and rewarding descents.
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Highlight: Entering the "Green Heart" of Vietnam and the serenity of Ba Be National Park.
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Meals: B/L/D | Accommodation: Boutique Homestay/Hotel
Day 4: Ba Be National Park – Tinh Tuc – Cao Bang: The Roof of the North
Prepare for a challenging but epic day. We leave the lake and climb toward Tinh Tuc, a historic tin-mining town perched high in the mountains. This section offers breathtaking high-altitude views and dramatic switchbacks. After reaching the summit, we enjoy a long, thrilling descent toward Cao Bang city, the heart of the UNESCO Global Geopark.
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Route: Ba Be – Tinh Tuc – Cao Bang
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Cycling Distance: ~90 km
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Road Condition: High mountain passes, winding roads, and technical descents.
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Highlight: The rugged beauty of the Tinh Tuc passes and the expansive views of the Geopark.
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Meals: B/L/D | Accommodation: Local Hotel
Day 5: Cao Bang – Ban Gioc Waterfall: The Crown Jewel
Today is the day many riders wait for. We pedal toward the Chinese border to reach the majestic Ban Gioc Waterfall. The route takes us through traditional Nung villages famous for their blacksmithing. Before reaching the falls, we explore Nguom Ngao Cave, an underground palace of stone. We end the day at the falls, listening to the thunder of the water.
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Route: Cao Bang – Ma Phuc Pass – Ban Gioc
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Cycling Distance: ~85 km
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Road Condition: Undulating terrain with one significant pass (Ma Phuc) and stunning valley roads.
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Highlight: Standing before the mighty Ban Gioc Waterfall and exploring the depths of Nguom Ngao.
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Meals: B/L/D | Accommodation: Resort/Hotel near the Falls
Day 6: Ban Gioc Waterfall – Hanoi: The Final Frontier
We enjoy a final morning ride along the border, taking in the limestone towers that define this region. After a few hours of cycling through hidden valleys, we meet our support vehicle for the final transfer back to Hanoi. We arrive in the capital in the late evening, marking the end of an incredible 6-day odyssey.
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Route: Ban Gioc – Quang Uyen – Transfer to Hanoi
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Cycling Distance: ~50 km
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Road Condition: Scenic backroads followed by a smooth transfer via highway.
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Highlight: The last border trails and the sense of achievement as we return to the capital.
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Meals: B/L | Accommodation: N/A (End of Service)
What’s Included
What is Included:
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Support Vehicle: Professional A/C van to carry all luggage, spare parts, and riders if needed.
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Expert Guide: English-speaking cycling specialist with deep knowledge of the local culture and mechanics.
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High-End Bikes: Mountain bike rental (Hardtail or Full Suspension) with helmets and repair kits.
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Accommodation: 5 nights of mixed accommodation (Homestays, Local Hotels, and Boutique lodging).
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Full Board: All meals (B, L, D) featuring fresh, local Vietnamese cuisine and energy-boosting snacks.
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Hydration: Unlimited bottled water, seasonal fruits, and isotonic drinks during riding hours.
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Permits: All entrance fees for National Parks, Ban Gioc Waterfall, and Nguom Ngao Cave.
What is Excluded:
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Insurance: International travel and medical insurance (Mandatory).
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Personal Costs: Laundry, phone calls, and alcoholic beverages.
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Tips: Gratuities for your dedicated guide and driver.
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Flights: International airfare to and from Hanoi.
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Single Room: Optional single supplement for those wanting private rooms throughout.
Itinerary
Conquer the ultimate 6-day cycling loop in Northern Vietnam. Ride from Thac Ba Lake to the majestic Ban Gioc Waterfall and emerald Ba Be Lake. Experience rugged mountain passes, ethnic culture, and world-class scenery on this professional bike tour
Tour Plan
Your journey begins with an essential briefing at our Hanoi headquarters, ensuring you are perfectly fitted to your bike and briefed on the secrets of navigating Vietnam’s roads. A comfortable 2-hour shuttle whisks us away from the city heat to Viet Tri, the starting point of our adventure. The first day is a delightful introduction, featuring mostly sealed roads that wind through lush countryside and fruit orchards. As the sun begins to dip, we arrive at the tranquil shores of Thac Ba Lake. Here, the vibrant hospitality of the White Dao people awaits as we settle into a traditional stilt house for a celebratory welcome dinner.
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Route: Hanoi – Viet Tri – Thac Ba Lake
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Cycling Distance: ~82 km
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Road Condition: Mostly sealed, smooth tarmac with gentle undulations.
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Highlight: Traditional "Family Dinner" and the serene stilt house experience by the lake.
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Meals: L/D | Accommodation: Traditional Homestay
Tour Map
Reviews
An outstanding adventure with Golden Cycling Tours. The trails were stunning, and the team was very helpful, ensuring we were all safe and enjoying the experience. I can't wait to come back for another tour!
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We took the 6-day tour with easy riders. It was the best thing I did in Vietnam the scenery was breathtaking and we experienced so much in such short time. We saw authentic villages and had great time with the locals, who were very kind and welcoming. We drank happy water every night and had a great time.The tour is well balanced, you have a lot of breaks during the day in which you explore the villages and nature sites. The team was very good and friendly, they took care of everything and made sure we were safe and happy!!