Vietnam Dirtbike Tour 5 Days: Cloudy ride to Sapa Highlands

Wake up early for a morning coffee above the clouds, breathing in the crisp mountain air before you hop back onto your dirtbike for another epic day. Today’s ride takes you deeper into the heart of Northwest Vietnam, where the landscapes unfold with every twist of the throttle.
We descend from the misty heights of Ta Xua, taking small dirt tracks and backroads that wind through hidden valleys and isolated H’mong and Thai villages, offering a genuine glimpse into local mountain life. The journey towards Tu Le is a visual feast, with layered hills rolling under the vast sky and terraced fields clinging to the slopes.
After a local lunch in Tu Le, we conquer the legendary Khau Pha Pass, often called the “Horn of the Sky.” This serpentine pass offers thrilling bends and spectacular views over the valleys below, where the iconic Mu Cang Chai rice terraces shimmer in the light, layered like giant green staircases down to the streams.
The ride into Mu Cang Chai is a sensory delight, with the scent of ripening rice fields in the breeze and the dramatic scenery keeping your camera ready. By evening, we arrive in Mu Cang Chai town, where you will be welcomed into a Thai family homestay. Enjoy a hearty local dinner, share stories over “happy water,” and soak in the calm of the mountains after a rewarding day of riding.

Summary:
Accommodation: Ecolodge
Distance: 180km
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today marks one of the most thrilling days of your dirtbike adventure as we ride towards Vietnam’s rooftop regions. After breakfast, we set off from Mu Cang Chai, following winding roads past rice terraces shimmering under the morning light, heading towards Than Uyen.
For riders craving an extra adrenaline rush, an optional back route with multiple river crossings will test your skills and reward you with rugged, untouched scenery. The day’s true highlight begins as we approach Binh Lu, where the road coils upwards toward the legendary O Quy Ho Pass, the highest mountain pass in Vietnam at over 2,000 meters above sea level.
This “Cloud Pass” offers breathtaking views across the Fansipan mountain range, with layers of peaks fading into the distance and clouds rolling below your wheels. Every twist and turn is a call for you to pause, breathe, and capture the raw beauty of the Northern highlands.
We then descend into the cool, misty Sapa Valley, known for its French colonial history and its vibrant H’mong, Dao, and Tay communities. As we arrive, you will feel the change in the air, with pine forests and stone streets welcoming you to this charming highland town.
After dinner, you’ll have free time to stroll through Sapa’s night market, explore the quaint streets lined with cafes, or simply relax and prepare for another day of adventure tomorrow.

Summary:
Accommodation: 4 stars Hotel
Distance: 180km
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast in the crisp Sapa morning air, we kick off the ride downhill toward Lao Cai City, hugging mountain roads with sweeping views of valleys below. We’ll pause for a coffee by the Nam Thi River, taking in the unique scene of daily life along the Vietnam–China border.
Back on the bikes, we cruise along Road 70, passing small local markets and rural life before turning onto Road 152 toward Luc Yen for a lunch stop. This region, known for its gemstone trading and tranquil countryside, offers a glimpse into Northern Vietnam’s slower pace of life.
The afternoon ride is a joy for dirtbike lovers as we navigate smaller backroads toward Vu Linh Village, nestled by the vast Thac Ba Lake, Vietnam’s largest man-made lake. Arriving around 4:00 PM, we’ll board a local boat for a serene glide across the lake, watching the Dzao villagers paddle between floating islets under the soft light of the setting sun.
As night falls, prepare for a memorable evening with your Dzao hosts, who welcome you with warm smiles and a table full of local dishes and “Happy Water.” Traditional dances, laughter, and the rhythmic beat of the village drum will make this a night to remember.
At the end of the evening, settle into your cozy stilt house bungalow, equipped with warm blankets for a restful sleep by the lakeside.

Summary:
Accommodation: Best Homestay in Area
Distance: 200km
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Wake up to the sounds of roosters crowing, ducks quacking, and children laughing in Ngoi Tu Village. This peaceful morning, surrounded by misty hills and the gentle lapping of Thac Ba Lake, is a moment to savor before heading back to Hanoi.
Enjoy a simple breakfast prepared by your Dzao hosts, with fresh pancakes, bananas, and honey from the village. Take a last stroll through the palm-shaded stilt houses or sip one more coffee by the lake before gearing up.
Our ride today takes us on small zig-zag roads weaving through villages hidden under palm canopies and lush tea hills. Descending gradually, the mountains give way to the lowland plains, offering a final taste of Vietnam’s diverse landscapes.
We’ll pause for a local lunch in Viet Tri, then continue our journey along the Red River Dyke, avoiding the heavy traffic while getting closer to Hanoi.
Expect to arrive back in Hanoi before rush hour around 4:30 PM, marking the end of your 5-day Northern Vietnam Dirtbike Adventure. Celebrate your achievement with a cold beer and say farewell to your guide and the team, knowing the trails of Vietnam will always be ready for your next ride.

Summary:
Distance: 180km
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch