In the early morning, we depart from Hanoi, tracing a route through Xuan Mai, Highway 6, and the scenic Thung Khe Pass, leading us to Tong Dau and finally to Mai Chau. While not as challenging as the roads in Ha Giang or Yen Bai, the journey to Mai Chau still presents steep and perilous sections, requiring careful attention to safety. After passing through Luong Son Market, we venture onto a hidden single track, off the map, offering rugged and muddy off-road routes for those seeking more exhilarating adventures.

Following a local lunch, our Sapa Motorbike tour continues to Cao Phong, renowned for its orange and sugar cane fields. We then ride along National Highway 6 towards the Thung Khe Pass. Here, we face two options: ascend to the summit of Thung Khe Pass for panoramic views of Mai Chau valley and photo opportunities, or follow the famous Black River, offering stunning vistas of crystal-clear lakes and limestone mountain ranges reminiscent of Ha Long Bay on land.

In Mai Chau valley, visitors can opt to explore on foot or by bike, traversing a picturesque landscape of rice fields interspersed with traditional Thai villages. Accommodation for the night is in traditional stilt houses, where guests awaken to the tranquil sounds of flowing irrigation streams and birdsong.

Summary:

Distance: 200km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel

Waking up early to witness the dawn and embrace the start of a new day is truly a delightful experience. Departing from Mai Chau, we kick off the second day of our tour by journeying another 60 km to reach Moc Chau in Son La province. Moc Chau stands as the vastest and most enchanting plateau in the Northern mountainous region. It enchants visitors with its vibrant-colored flowers, verdant tea hills, pine forests, breathtaking waterfalls, and refreshing cool climate.

Following lunch in Moc Chau, we continue our expedition to Pha Din Pass, marking the boundary between Son La and Dien Bien provinces. Translated as "heaven and earth" in the local language, Pha Din Pass is a must-visit for all adventurous travelers. The rugged terrain features perilous curved bends, with sheer cliffs on one side and a deep abyss on the other. Nature presents this challenging path as a test for those seeking the beauty that awaits atop the pass. Additionally, we'll visit Son La prison, situated in the heart of Son La city, approximately 45 km south of Laos. Constructed by the French colonialists in 1908, it holds historical significance.

Summary:

Distance: 200 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel

Today promises to be one of the most captivating days of our tour as we traverse a variety of stunning single tracks. Our journey begins in the morning, departing from Son La towards Tuan Giao town. Upon reaching a fork in the road, we veer left onto 279 Dien Bien Phu, passing through Tang Quai Pass and Ta Con slope before arriving at Dien Bien Phu and looping back to Muong Lay.

Muong Lay, often referred to as the "Jewel of the Northwest," has long been renowned for its captivating scenery. Here, amidst majestic and poetic natural landscapes, we have the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the culture of the upland ethnic communities. Along the way, we'll traverse Hang Tom Bridge, the largest cable-stayed bridge in Indochina, which stands as a symbol of the grand Son La hydroelectric power project, linking the banks of Lai Chau and Dien Bien.

As night falls, we'll find lodging in a local homestay in Muong Lay.

Summary:

Distance: 200 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel

Departing from Muong Lay, we head northward along Highway No. 12. Along the way, we make a stop at Pu Dao, a highland commune in Nam Nhun district. To reach Pu Dao, we cross the Lai Ha Bridge over a tributary of the Da River. From the bridge, one can catch sight of traditional Thai houses nestled amidst coconut trees, with wisps of smoke rising from their rooftops, blending into the mist on the other side. It's a scene of serene beauty and poetic charm.

At midday, we'll have the opportunity to observe the traditional lifestyle of the residents and immerse ourselves in the rich culture of the ethnic communities. Later, we continue our journey to Nam Be, turning right onto Sin Ho/DT128, then Ma Quai Thang, leading us to Lai Chau. Here, we can marvel at the breathtaking and unspoiled landscapes of the Northwest mountains while indulging in delicious local specialties. It promises to be an unforgettable experience for all.

Summary:

Distance: 200 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel

In the morning, our skilled crew of motorcyclists ventures into Tam Duong market, a quintessential mountain market located approximately 5km from Lai Chau city. Situated along the National Highway, Tam Duong market serves as a bustling trading hub and a gathering place for ethnic minority communities. Here, visitors can peruse a diverse array of locally-made products, ranging from agricultural goods to livestock, while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere characterized by colorful traditional attire and the melodic tunes of locally-crafted musical instruments like flutes and pipes.

As noon approaches, we bid farewell to Tam Duong and set our sights on Sapa. Although the distance is short, the journey is adorned with breathtaking scenery. We conclude the fifth day with a relaxing stay in Ta Van village, nestled near the picturesque Muong Hoa valley.

Summary:

Distance: 125 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel

On the final day, our journey takes us to Cat Cat Village, nestled in a picturesque valley just three kilometers from Sapa Town. Renowned for its unique customs and traditions, Cat Cat village captivates tourists from around the world with its rich cultural heritage. Here, visitors can witness the preservation of traditional handicrafts such as cotton, linen, and weaving, along with the renowned indigo dyeing technique.

Next, we explore Muong Hoa Valley, often referred to as Sa Pa's ancient stone beach. Accessible from Sa Pa town via a mountain pass (with a fee of 4 USD per person), Muong Hoa Valley is situated in Hau Thao commune, approximately 8 km southeast of Sa Pa town. It boasts the largest rice-growing farmland in Sa Pa and is renowned for its ancient rock formations adorned with mysterious carvings, interspersed amidst the terraced fields of the ethnic minority communities. Muong Hoa Valley stands as one of the most famous destinations for its breathtaking scenery.

In the afternoon, we make our way to the train station, bidding farewell to Sapa as we journey back to Hanoi, marking the conclusion of our 8-day Northern Vietnam motorbike tour.

Summary:

Distance: 125 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel