Itinerary Overview

This 14-day 4×4 journey follows the historic Ho Chi Minh Trail from North to South, tracing one of Vietnam’s most significant wartime corridors through mountains, valleys, and remote hinterlands. Starting in Hanoi, the IA designs this route as a true long-distance overland experience, where history, terrain, and landscape unfold gradually with each day on the road. The driving flow favors depth and continuity, not shortcuts — a classic Vietnam car tours experience built on distance and meaning.

Leaving the Red River Delta, the route moves through the rural valleys of Mai Chau and Ninh Binh before entering the historic trail network near Tan Ky. From here, the journey follows the spine of the country through Phong Nha and the former frontline zone of Khe Sanh, where geography and history are inseparable.

Continuing south, the route passes imperial landscapes around Hue and the coastal calm of Hoi An before turning inland again toward remote highland crossings near Kham Duc and the Central Highlands around Kon Tum. The final stages descend toward the coast at Quy Nhon, continue south through Nha Trang, and climb once more into the cooler air of Da Lat. The journey concludes with open coastal scenery near Mui Ne, before finishing in Ho Chi Minh City, completing a north–south traverse shaped by history, landscape, and real overland experience with the IA.

Tour Highlights

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    Ho Chi Minh Trail historic north–south war corridor crossing mountains and valleys

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    Mai Chau and Ninh Binh rural landscapes marking the northern transition

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    Tan Ky wartime gateway into the original Ho Chi Minh Trail network

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    Phong Nha karst region and Khe Sanh battlefield highlands

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    Hue imperial heritage and Hoi An cultural coastal pause

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    Central Highlands crossings through Kham Duc and Kon Tum

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    South Central Coast transition at Quy Nhon and Nha Trang

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    Da Lat highland climate before the coastal finish at Mui Ne

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Overview

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Details

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Prices

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FAQs

Summary

  • Culture:  North–Central–Highlands–Coast Vietnam cultural corridor

  • Average Daily Ride Hours:  4 – 6 hours

  • Total Distance KM:  2505 km

  • Level:  Intermediate

  • Day 1: : Hanoi - Mai Chau - Ninh Binh

    Leaving Hanoi, the drive eases out of the capital into open countryside shaped by rivers and farmland. Long-distance driving sets a calm rhythm for the first day without pressure. Gentle elevation changes lead toward Mai Chau, where valleys open wide and the pace naturally slows. The route continues south through quiet rural zones with scenic curves and minimal traffic. Daily life unfolds along the road, offering an authentic sense of northern Vietnam. The transition from mountains to limestone landscapes becomes clear approaching Ninh Binh. The drive remains smooth and balanced throughout the day. Arrival in Ninh Binh comes with dramatic karst scenery and a relaxed evening atmosphere.
    Summary
    Distance: ~190 km
    Meals: Lunch – Dinner
    Accommodation: 3–4 stars Hotel

  • Day 2: : Ninh Binh - Tan Ky

    The journey continues deeper into Vietnam’s interior, following quieter corridors away from major population centers. The landscape shifts gradually from limestone plains to rolling low hills. Long stretches of driving allow the day to unfold at a steady and comfortable pace. Traffic remains light, supporting focused and relaxed control. Rural towns appear intermittently, marking progress southward. Elevation changes are subtle but constant. The sense of distance grows with each hour on the road. Tan Ky is reached as a symbolic gateway to the historic trail. The evening is calm, preparing for the central section of the route.
    Summary
    Distance: ~250 km
    Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
    Accommodation: 3–4 stars Hotel

  • Day 3: : Tan Ky - Phong Nha

    Today’s drive introduces more forested terrain and narrower valleys. The road flows through remote countryside shaped by rivers and hills. Scenic curves keep the drive engaging without becoming demanding. Traffic fades noticeably, reinforcing the overland character of the journey. Elevation increases gradually as the route approaches central Vietnam’s limestone zones. Small settlements appear sparsely along the way. The rhythm of driving feels steady and immersive. Arrival near Phong Nha brings cooler air and dense greenery. The evening is quiet, surrounded by nature and space.
    Summary
    Distance: ~230 km
    Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
    Accommodation: 3–4 stars Hotel

  • Day 4: : Phong Nha - Khe Sanh

    Leaving Phong Nha, the route turns into more rugged and historic terrain. Forests thicken as the drive progresses toward former border zones. Elevation changes become more pronounced, shaping a focused driving day. The road demands attention but remains fluid and consistent. Traffic is minimal, allowing uninterrupted progress. The sense of history becomes more tangible through landscape and isolation. Valleys narrow and rise toward higher ground. Khe Sanh appears remote and grounded by its past. Evening time is calm and reflective.
    Summary
    Distance: ~210 km
    Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
    Accommodation: 3–4 stars Hotel

  • Day 5: : Khe Sanh - Hue

    The drive descends gradually from upland terrain toward the coast. Forested hills give way to broader valleys and cultivated land. The rhythm of the road softens, offering a contrast to previous days. Long scenic sections encourage relaxed driving. Cultural shifts are noticeable as central Vietnam opens up. Traffic increases slightly approaching Hue but remains manageable. The transition from remote highlands to historic city feels clear. Hue welcomes the group with a calmer urban pace. The evening balances comfort and cultural atmosphere.
    Summary
    Distance: ~170 km
    Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
    Accommodation: 3–4 stars Hotel

  • Day 6: : Hue - Hoi An

    Departing Hue, the route follows central corridors shaped by coastal plains and low passes. The drive feels lighter, with smoother transitions and wider views. Scenic curves appear frequently without technical difficulty. Traffic patterns remain predictable, supporting steady movement. The coastline influences light and air along the way. The journey feels connected rather than remote. Arrival in Hoi An brings a distinct cultural and architectural shift. The atmosphere is lively yet relaxed. Evening time allows easy exploration and rest.
    Summary
    Distance: ~140 km
    Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
    Accommodation: 3–4 stars Hotel

  • Day 7: : Hoi An - OFF

    This day is reserved for rest and light exploration without long-distance driving. The slower pace offers recovery after consecutive travel days. Time is available to explore Hoi An at an unhurried rhythm. Short local movements can be done comfortably if desired. The coastal climate and historic setting create a refreshing pause. The day allows physical and mental reset. Evening time remains flexible and relaxed.
    Summary
    Distance: ~0 km
    Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
    Accommodation: 3–4 stars Hotel

  • Day 8: : Hoi An - Kham Duc

    Leaving the coast, the route turns inland toward quieter central highlands. The road tightens gradually with increasing elevation. Forested slopes and river valleys shape the day’s scenery. Traffic drops quickly, reinforcing the remote character of the drive. Elevation changes demand attentive and smooth handling. The sense of returning to historic inland routes becomes clear. Long scenic stretches encourage steady pacing. Kham Duc arrives quietly, surrounded by hills and forest. The evening is calm and grounded.
    Summary
    Distance: ~160 km
    Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
    Accommodation: 3–4 stars Hotel

  • Day 9: : Kham Duc - Kon Tum

    The journey continues deeper into the Central Highlands. Rolling terrain alternates with tighter mountain sections. Scenic curves and elevation changes define the driving experience. Traffic remains minimal, allowing uninterrupted progress. Forests and plantations dominate the landscape. The climate becomes slightly cooler at altitude. Settlements are sparse, reinforcing a sense of distance. Kon Tum appears as a highland center with distinct regional character. Evening time is relaxed after a focused day.
    Summary
    Distance: ~190 km
    Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
    Accommodation: 3–4 stars Hotel

  • Day 10: : Kon Tum - Quy Nhon

    Today marks a transition from highlands back toward the coast. The drive begins with rolling plateaus before descending into broader valleys. Elevation drops steadily, warming the air. Scenic sections keep the drive engaging throughout the descent. Traffic increases gradually nearing coastal regions. The contrast between mountains and sea becomes more pronounced. Light and horizon open noticeably. Arrival in Quy Nhon brings a fresh coastal atmosphere. The evening is unhurried and open.
    Summary
    Distance: ~220 km
    Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
    Accommodation: 3–4 stars Hotel

  • Day 11: : Quy Nhon - Nha Trang

    The route follows the south-central coast with wide views and flowing road sections. Long-distance driving feels smooth and predictable. Coastal scenery alternates with inland stretches. Traffic remains manageable outside urban areas. The drive emphasizes comfort rather than technical challenge. Sea air shapes the atmosphere throughout the day. The sense of southward progression is clear. Nha Trang appears lively and expansive. Evening time contrasts sharply with inland quiet.
    Summary
    Distance: ~215 km
    Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
    Accommodation: 3–4 stars Hotel

  • Day 12: : Nha Trang - Da Lat

    Leaving the coast, the route climbs steadily back into higher elevations. Scenic curves increase as the road winds through forested terrain. Cooler air returns gradually with altitude. Traffic thins quickly once inland. Valleys open and close, shaping a dynamic driving day. The transition from sea to mountains feels continuous. The IA maintains a balanced pace through elevation change. Da Lat arrives with a calm highland atmosphere. Evening time is cool and relaxed.
    Summary
    Distance: ~140 km
    Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
    Accommodation: 3–4 stars Hotel

  • Day 13: : Da Lat - Mui Ne

    The day begins with a gentle descent from the highlands. Forested hills give way to drier landscapes and open plains. Scenic curves soften into longer flowing sections. Traffic remains light for much of the route. Light and color shift noticeably approaching the coast. The drive feels smooth and unforced. The contrast between cool highlands and warm shoreline becomes clear. Mui Ne arrives with sea air and open horizons. Evening time is calm and coastal.
    Summary
    Distance: ~170 km
    Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
    Accommodation: 3–4 stars Hotel

  • Day 14: : Mui Ne - Saigon

    The final day focuses on a composed return to the south’s main city. The drive follows broad landscapes shaped by agriculture and small towns. Long-distance driving defines the rhythm, favoring comfort and consistency. Traffic gradually increases nearing urban zones. The scenery becomes more familiar and structured. Stops are practical and minimal. The contrast between remote routes and city life becomes clear. Saigon reappears with its full scale and movement. The journey concludes with a strong sense of completion after crossing Vietnam from north to south.
    Summary
    Distance: ~220 km
    Meals: Breakfast – Lunch
    Accommodation: 3–4 stars Hotel

Price

  2-4 pax 5-8 pax 9 - 12 pax 13+ pax
Price / 1 Pax / 1 Day 200 USD 180 USD 160 USD Contact Us
 
CHOOSE THE CAR
  Wildtrack 2.2
2022+
Toyota Hilux
2022+
Wildtrack 3.2
2022+
Raptor
2022+
Price / 1 Car / 1 Day 70 USD 70 USD 80 USD  90 USD
 

Inclusions

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    1 English Speaking Guide & 1 Driver

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    Lead the routes by 4x4 Pick Up Truck

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    Good Accommodation: 3 - 4 Stars Hotel – Twins or the best Hotel in area

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    All Meals On Tour

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    Luxury Bus Pickup and Drop off

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    Water - Coffee during a day

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    Ferry Fee

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    Hotel before & after Tour

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    Welcome & Farewell Dinner

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    All sightseeing tickets and travel permits on frontier

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    Material insurance for cars 50 - 70%

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    Third Party Insurance

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    Gasoline/ Petrol

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    Walkie-Talkie

Excludes

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    Personal insurance - Travel insurance (this at your own risk)

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    4G SIM Card - You can buy Viettel 4G sim at airport around 10$

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    Air ticket

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    Soft Drink, Beers, Alcoholic drinks

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    Personal expenses & Other expenses not described in the itinerary

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    Visa

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Note

• 1 Sweeper Car will come in every 7 Cars
• Cameraman 200$ / 1 day for Photos + Flycam/ FPV + 2 Clips after tour
• Single Supplement for Single Occupancy – Price will be informed upon the tour you book
Halong Bay Cruise + 100$ / 1 person
• Transfer the car back to Depature Spot 400$ / 1 car
• Deposit for Car $ 2000 by credit card for each car. This is used for Car Damage and Fines. The deposit will be released after 1 month
Children
• 5 – under 8: No Charge – can take with 4 people 1 car
• 8 – under 12: 50% of the price – can take with 4 people 1 car
• 12 – under 16: 75% of price – as an adult, not more than 4 people 1 car
• From 16 as an adult

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Group Tour

No. Arrival date Tour end date Bikes Tour name Slot Book tour
1 16/06/2026 30/06/2026 DIRTBIKE Vietnam Dirtbike Expedition 14 Days: The Classic Route from Hanoi to Saigon 10 Book now

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Tour: Ho Chi Minh Trail 4×4 Adventure Tour 14 Days: Historic War Route North–South

Indochina Adventure
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    14 days 13 nights

  • Icon distance

    2505 km

Icon acheive Tour Highlights

  • Ho Chi Minh Trail historic north–south war corridor crossing mountains and valleys
  • Mai Chau and Ninh Binh rural landscapes marking the northern transition
  • Tan Ky wartime gateway into the original Ho Chi Minh Trail network
  • Phong Nha karst region and Khe Sanh battlefield highlands
  • Hue imperial heritage and Hoi An cultural coastal pause
  • Central Highlands crossings through Kham Duc and Kon Tum
  • South Central Coast transition at Quy Nhon and Nha Trang
  • Da Lat highland climate before the coastal finish at Mui Ne

Icon location Pickup from

Hanoi

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