We begin our journey by gathering at BM Travel Adventure’s office, where the director will give an instructional speech before we set off. We’ll leave the city through the northwestern route. The distance from Hanoi to Sapa is approximately 330 kilometers, which will take around 9 hours to cover. As we drive further, the landscape transforms into mountain slopes and lush terraced fields. Upon arriving in Sapa, located in Lao Cai province, we’ll pause for lunch.

Following lunch, we’ll head north for 18 kilometers toward the Hoang Lien Son range. We’ll traverse the 50-kilometer long pass to reach Sapa’s Heaven’s Gate. At an elevation of 2,000 meters, you’ll be treated to a panoramic view of the expansive valley below, dotted with terraced fields, and encircled by mountain ranges, including the majestic Fansipan peak.

Next, we’ll visit Ham Rong Peak, aptly named for its resemblance to a dragon’s head. Climbing its impressive 1,800-meter height, you’ll marvel at the various flower gardens adorning the mountain, from orchids and hydrangeas to peonies and even sakura. At the base of Ham Rong, you can explore the historic Stone Church, built in 1895.

Summary:

Distance: 330 km
Accommodation: Hotel in Sapa
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After a night’s rest in Sapa, we head westward on Highway 32 towards Than Uyen district in Lai Chau province. This journey covers 140 kilometers and takes about 4 hours. Upon arriving in Than Uyen town, we will have lunch. Following lunch, we can visit the Khau Co Hill Monument, which commemorates the battle against French colonialists on November 20, 1886, by the Muong Lay and Muong Khoa people. This battle ignited the revolutionary spirit of the Than Uyen inhabitants. From here, you can also view the vast Muong Than Field, the third largest field in the Northwest region.

Our next stop is Na Khoang village in Muong Kim commune, known for its guerilla base established during the fight against the French. Close by, in Muong Than commune, lies the Che Bo Cave Complex, which stays cool in summer and warm in winter, featuring fascinating and beautiful stalactites and stalagmites. We will also visit the Ta Gia Scenic Complex in Ta Gia commune. This picturesque area boasts magnificent caves and splendid mountains, with the Nam Mu River winding through the landscape, creating a stunning scene.

Summary:

Distance: 140 km
Accommodation: Hotel in Than Uyen
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, we'll start our day with an early breakfast to prepare for a long journey. We begin by taking Highway 32 to Mu Cang Chai district in Yen Bai province, a 62-kilometer stretch that takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes. In Mu Cang Chai, we will encounter Khau Pha Pass, the longest and most treacherous pass on Highway 32. Named after the Thai words for "sky-high horn," the pass is often shrouded in fog and clouds, with only the peak visible. Its numerous bends, poor maintenance, and weak red basalt soil foundation make it extremely challenging to traverse.

However, the reward is breathtaking views of terraced rice paddies and lush, pristine forests from atop the pass, offering an unparalleled scenic experience. From Khau Pha, we will visit Tu Le Valley, known for its golden rice fields and delicious sticky rice dishes. Following the golden fields to Cao Pa commune, we will reach Lim Mong village, where we will have lunch. After lunch, we leave Mu Cang Chai and drive to Phu Yen district in Son La province. Given the length of the drive, resting upon arrival is recommended.

Summary:

Distance: 372 km
Accommodation: Hotel in Phu Yen
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After experiencing the sunrise and enjoying breakfast in Phu Yen, we’ll embark on our final day of exploration. We start by driving out to Highway 37, where we will visit the renowned Lung Lo Pass, located at the border between Son La and Yen Bai provinces. This pass, which endured nearly 12,000 tons of bombs, played a crucial role in the supply line for the historic battle of Dien Bien Phu. Despite repeated destruction and repairs, Lung Lo Pass fulfilled its duty, completing the supply job ten days ahead of schedule and surprising even the French. Today, it stands as a relic of war from over 60 years ago.

Our next stop is the old forest named after the esteemed General Vo Nguyen Giap. Here, you can talk to the forest keeper to hear stories about the time General Giap and his troops rested in the forest. Afterwards, you can climb the mountains in Quang Huy commune for some cloud hunting or relax by the tranquil lake that is part of the Black River. After lunch, we will begin our journey back to Hanoi, aiming to avoid the rush hour traffic. We will officially conclude our 4-day off-road Sapa motorbike tour at BM Travel Adventure’s office and bid our farewells.

Summary:

Distance: 160 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch