| Number of Cycling Days: 11 Days | Total Cycling Distance: 615 Km |
| Accommodation: Included | Bike Hire: Included |
| Single Supplement: Supplement Charge | Tour Code: VN – CVL |
| Next departure: 02 November, 2025 | Difficulty: Challenge |
Embark on an epic cycling journey from Hanoi to Luang Prabang, pedaling through the heart of Southeast Asia’s most captivating landscapes. This cross-border adventure spans two beautiful countries, Vietnam and Laos, offering an immersive cultural and scenic experience far from typical tourist routes.
Starting in Hanoi, Vietnam’s bustling capital, cyclists will ride through rural landscapes, mountain passes, and traditional hill-tribe villages. The route takes you along the historic Ho Chi Minh Trail, past tea plantations, rice paddies, and limestone karsts. In Mai Chau and Pu Luong, you’ll witness authentic local life and enjoy warm hospitality in ethnic minority communities.
Crossing into Laos, the journey continues through the tranquil northern provinces, rich in French colonial charm and Buddhist heritage. Ride through peaceful valleys and forested hills toward your final destination Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its golden temples and relaxed riverside vibe.
Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a passionate traveler with a sense of adventure, this Hanoi to Luang Prabang bike tour offers a unique way to explore the region’s hidden beauty. With vehicle support, expert guides, and thoughtfully planned accommodations, you can focus on the ride, the culture, and the connection with nature.
Ride through breathtaking landscapes – from northern Vietnam’s limestone mountains to Laos’ lush river valleys
Explore traditional villages, remote ethnic communities, and lesser-known cultural sites along the way
Cross the Mekong River and travel off the beaten path through quiet roads and mountain passes
Enjoy authentic local cuisine, roadside meals, and immersive homestay experiences
Led by experienced guides with full support vehicle and daily route planning
Stunning photo ops at waterfalls, rice terraces, ancient temples, and jungle trails
A unique cross-border cycling journey combining adventure, nature, and deep cultural exploration
Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi, our friendly English-speaking tour guide will greet you and provide a comfortable private transfer to your hotel in the heart of the city. After check-in and some time to relax, we’ll gather in the afternoon for a detailed cycling tour briefing, where you’ll meet your fellow riders and support team. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Vietnamese welcome dinner at a local restaurant, offering authentic cuisine and cultural flavors to kick off your adventure. Overnight stay in Hanoi, the bustling gateway to your unforgettable cycling journey from Vietnam to Laos.
After breakfast, embark on a guided cultural tour of Hanoi, Vietnam’s historic capital. We begin at Ngoc Son Temple, nestled on Hoan Kiem Lake in the heart of the Old Quarter, followed by a visit to the bustling Dong Xuan Market, a perfect spot to experience local life. Our journey continues through the city’s rich history with stops at the Old Citadel, the iconic Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda, and Quan Thanh Temple. We’ll also explore the peaceful grounds of Tran Quoc Pagoda, Hanoi’s oldest Buddhist temple, located on the tranquil West Lake.
After a traditional Vietnamese lunch, we visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, offering insight into the country’s 54 ethnic groups, then head to the Temple of Literature and Quoc Tu Giam, Vietnam’s first national university. In the evening, enjoy a traditional water puppet show, a unique Northern Vietnamese art form. Overnight stay in Hanoi, preparing for the cycling adventure ahead.
Enjoy a relaxed morning in Hanoi, giving you time to explore the vibrant streets of the Old Quarter, shop for souvenirs, or enjoy a leisurely Vietnamese coffee at a local café. In the afternoon, join us for a guided walking tour of Hanoi, where you’ll uncover more hidden gems of the city and soak up the local atmosphere. Later in the day, we’ll hold a detailed trip briefing to prepare you for the upcoming cycling leg of your Vietnam to Laos bike tour.
In the evening, board the comfortable overnight sleeper train to Lao Cai, a northern Vietnamese town near the Chinese border. Once a restricted area due to the 1979 conflict, Lao Cai is now a vital transit hub, connecting Hanoi to the scenic mountain town of Sapa and the broader region, including Kunming in China. Travel through the night in a soft-sleeper cabin, arriving well-rested and ready to begin the cycling adventure in northern Vietnam.
After arriving in Lao Cai, we’ll transfer up the winding mountainside to the picturesque town of Sapa, known as the “Queen of the Mountains.” Nestled at an altitude of 1,600 meters, Sapa offers breathtaking views of terraced rice fields and mist-covered peaks. Upon arrival, we’ll adjust the bikes and set out on our first ride, cycling into the stunning Sapa Valley, home to ethnic minority villages and dramatic mountain landscapes.
Originally established as a French colonial hill station in 1922, Sapa boasts a unique blend of cultural heritage and alpine charm. Our ride today provides a perfect warm-up for the journey ahead, as you pedal past traditional Hmong and Red Dao communities, lush green valleys, and cascading streams. Tonight, you’ll enjoy a peaceful overnight stay in Sapa, surrounded by the tranquility of the northern highlands.
Today’s ride takes you deeper into the heart of Vietnam’s northern mountains with a challenging off-road cycling route from Sapa to Ta Phin Village. This scenic and adventurous trail winds through forested hillsides, terraced rice paddies, and remote ethnic minority communities, offering a truly immersive cultural experience. Ta Phin is home to the Red Dao and Black Hmong people, and you’ll have the opportunity to witness their traditional lifestyles and unique handicrafts.
The ride features a mix of climbs and descents, making it one of the more physically rewarding days of the Hanoi to Luang Prabang cycling tour. After a loop through the rugged countryside and peaceful highland villages, we return to Sapa for another overnight stay, with time to relax and take in the crisp mountain air and stunning views.
Today marks a dramatic shift in landscape and terrain as we begin the day with a short but invigorating uphill ride toward Tram Ton Pass, Vietnam’s highest mountain pass at 1,900 meters above sea level. Known as the “Heaven’s Gate of Vietnam,” this scenic route offers breathtaking views of the Hoang Lien Son mountain range. From the summit, we enjoy a thrilling long descent into the lush valley of Binh Lu, where the terrain becomes more rugged and remote.
From Binh Lu, we transition to a challenging off-road cycling route along a jeep trail composed of hard-packed gravel and clay. This trail winds through dense forests and remote hill tribe communities on the way to Tam Duong (Phong Tho) and finally to Pa So, a peaceful outpost nestled in the far northwestern region of Vietnam. This leg of the cycling tour from Hanoi to Luang Prabang is both adventurous and rewarding, showcasing the raw beauty of Vietnam’s highlands. Overnight stay in Pa So.
Today’s leg of the Hanoi to Luang Prabang cycling tour is one of the most demanding yet rewarding. We depart Pa So and tackle a grueling uphill climb to Sin Ho, a remote mountain town perched high above the clouds. While the ascent is tough, the surrounding scenery, lush valleys, dramatic ridgelines, and distant terraced hillsides, makes every pedal stroke worthwhile. This region is home to several ethnic minority groups, offering glimpses into traditional highland life.
After reaching the summit near Sin Ho, we enjoy a thrilling descent toward Lai Chau (Muong Lay) on a mixed-surface route of tarmac, gravel, and hard-packed clay. The varied terrain and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains create a true highland cycling adventure. We arrive in Lai Chau by late afternoon and settle in for an overnight stay, resting up for the next leg of this epic cross-border ride.
Today we take on one of the most demanding yet awe-inspiring cycling routes of the entire tour. Departing Lai Chau (Muong Lay) early in the morning, we head toward Tuan Giao and ultimately Dien Bien Phu, a city rich in historical significance. The entire ride covers rugged tarmac roads, with challenging climbs and thrilling descents across Vietnam’s remote northwest.
Though the terrain is rough and physically intense, the rewards are immense, breathtaking mountain landscapes, unspoiled ethnic minority villages, and panoramic valley views few travelers ever witness. As we cycle deeper into this less-traveled region, you’ll truly feel immersed in the authentic spirit of northern Vietnam. We end the day in Dien Bien Phu, where we stay overnight in preparation for crossing into Laos in the coming days.
Today begins with a guided exploration of Dien Bien Phu, a historical site famous for its role in the Battle of Dien Bien Phu, which marked a pivotal moment in Vietnam’s fight for independence from French colonial rule. The battle’s significance is deeply felt here, as you visit key landmarks and learn about the city’s dramatic past.
After our morning tour, we begin the cross-border cycling journey from Vietnam into Laos, cycling approximately 70 km to the Tay Tran border crossing. As we enter northeastern Laos, we find ourselves in one of the country’s least populated and most remote regions, offering a rare glimpse into traditional Lao life. The ride continues along the Nam Ou River, known for its serene beauty and dramatic landscapes. We eventually arrive in the town of Muang Khua, where we’ll rest for the night, surrounded by lush green mountains and the peaceful river.
After a hearty breakfast, we embark on a 75 km ride along National Road 1 toward Oudomxai, a provincial capital nestled in the heart of northern Laos. The route takes us through scenic landscapes along lightly traveled roads, where lush forests and traditional villages line the way, offering a peaceful contrast to the bustling cities of Vietnam.
Oudomxai holds a significant place in Laos’ history, during the Second Indochina War, it served as a strategic hub for Chinese troops supporting the Pathet Laos. Today, Oudomxai has transformed into a thriving center for trade between Laos and China, benefiting from its strategic location at the junction of National Roads 1, 2, and 4. Upon arrival, you’ll have time to explore the city and reflect on the fascinating mix of history and modern-day commerce that defines Oudomxai. Overnight stay in Oudomxai.
After a hearty breakfast and a quick warm-up exercise to get our muscles ready, we set off from Oudomxai on a challenging yet rewarding ride toward Pak Mong. The first part of the day features a series of steep climbs, with hill after hill as we gain elevation through the rugged terrain of northern Laos. Though demanding, the effort is rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, lush valleys, and traditional Lao villages nestled among the hills.
We’ll take a well-deserved break to re-energize before continuing on the road to Pak Mong, a quiet village located along the route to Luang Prabang. This ride offers an excellent opportunity to experience the raw beauty of Laos’ countryside and its serene landscapes. Once we arrive in Pak Mong, we’ll rest for the night, preparing for the next exciting leg of our cycling adventure from Hanoi to Luang Prabang.
Day 12 marks our longest cycling day as we make our way from Pak Mong to the enchanting town of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage site. We begin the ride on the main road, passing through the picturesque village of Ban Thabu before continuing along the Nam Ou River, which offers some of the most scenic landscapes of the entire journey. Cycling along the river’s edge, we pass by traditional Lao villages, providing a glimpse into the rural lives of the locals as they work the land, fish the river, and maintain their age-old traditions.
Midday, we take a relaxing picnic lunch by the riverbank, giving us time to recharge before continuing the ride. After a brief power nap, we continue toward Pak Ou, home to the famous Pak Ou Caves, which are filled with thousands of Buddha statues and revered by locals. As we finish the day’s ride, we finally arrive in Luang Prabang, one of Southeast Asia’s most culturally rich towns, known for its well-preserved architecture and stunning temples. In the evening, enjoy a delightful dinner in town before an overnight stay in Luang Prabang.
On the final day of our Cycling Tour Hanoi to Luang Prabang, we begin the day with a delightful breakfast before setting off south from Luang Prabang. As we cycle, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of lush mountains and unspoiled forests, making it one of the most picturesque parts of our journey. The quiet beauty of the landscape will captivate you as we make our way toward the Nam Khan River.
Upon reaching the river, we’ll board a traditional long-tail motorboat for a scenic ride downstream, where your bike will be waiting at the local pier near the charming village of Ban Phanom. From here, we’ll continue our ride, taking a different route back to Luang Prabang, stopping at the Tai Lue weaving village. This historic village is renowned for its exquisite silk textiles, which were once crafted for the former Lao royal family.
After exploring the village, we cycle back to Luang Prabang, where we’ll arrive in the afternoon. Before sunset, enjoy a guided cycling tour around Luang Prabang’s most iconic sights, including its serene temples, colonial architecture, and beautiful streets. This is a perfect way to end the Hanoi to Luang Prabang cycling tour and soak in the unique culture and history of the city.
Your Cycling Tour Hanoi to Luang Prabang will be led by an experienced, local cycling guide. If your group consists of less than five participants, you will be accompanied by one English-speaking cycling guide and a driver. For larger groups of six or more, a Cycling Tour Leader, additional English-speaking guides, and support staff will be provided. Our guides are skilled in sharing the region’s cultural, historical, and religious knowledge, ensuring a memorable and informative cycling experience.
We provide high-quality mountain bikes for the tour, depending on the terrain and preferences. Our experienced guide will carry essential tools to assist with bike repairs if needed. Although we strive to address most common issues, we recommend bringing a well-serviced bike if you’re using your own. Bike maintenance before the tour is highly encouraged.
A backup vehicle will follow the cycling group, transporting luggage from one overnight stop to the next. The vehicle can also carry you in case you need a break or assistance. Frequent stops every 15 kilometers will ensure comfort, rest, and snacks along the journey.
For your safety, wearing a helmet is mandatory throughout the tour. If you choose not to wear one, you will not be allowed to cycle. Your tour guide is trained in first aid and emergency rescue, but it’s important to note that you are responsible for your own safety while cycling.
The cycling terrain is a mix of hills, flat paths, tarmac, and dirt roads through scenic countryside and rural villages. We’ll ride on quiet backroads with stunning views, with regular breaks every 15 kilometers to rest, snack, and take photos. Our guides accommodate all skill levels, and if you’re unable to complete a section, you can always hop into the support vehicle.
This tour is suitable for cyclists of all experience levels and fitness. It’s not a race, and we encourage participants to cycle at their own pace, enjoying the scenery. Your fitness level will be supported, and our guides will make sure the route is enjoyable for everyone.
Since this is a physically demanding tour, health and fitness are important. We require all participants to disclose any pre-existing medical conditions before the tour starts. This helps us ensure that any potential health issues are addressed promptly.
We provide hydration throughout the tour with water, local fruit, and soft drinks included. Alcoholic beverages are not included but can be purchased separately. Hydration is key, and we encourage you to drink regularly throughout the cycling day.
Although the tour covers most expenses, we recommend budgeting for meals and drinks outside those indicated in the itinerary, as well as for any optional activities. We suggest bringing about US$30 for incidentals, souvenirs, or small purchases during the tour.
Vietnam: The official currency is the Vietnam Dong, though US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas. ATMs are available in major cities, and currency exchange is easy at banks.
Laos: The official currency is the Laos Kip, but US dollars and Thai Baht are also commonly accepted. ATMs are limited, so it’s a good idea to carry enough local currency, especially in rural areas.
We welcome solo travelers on our cycling tours! If you sign up as a solo traveler, you’ll be paired with another person of the same gender. For those who prefer a private room, a single supplement is available for an additional charge.
Please ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the arrival date. Vietnam and Laos have specific visa requirements, so make sure you obtain the necessary visa in advance. We offer guidance and assistance with visa arrangements if needed.
It is mandatory to have travel insurance covering personal injury, medical expenses, and other essential areas like trip cancellation, loss of luggage, and evacuation. We recommend purchasing insurance as soon as you book your tour to ensure full coverage.
Vietnam: The climate varies from tropical in the south to temperate in the north. The best time to visit is between October and April, when the weather is mild.
Laos: Laos has a tropical climate with three seasons: hot and dry (March to June), rainy (June to October), and cool (November to February). Ideal travel months are from November to February.
To secure your spot, a 30% deposit is required upon booking, with the balance due 30 days before departure. For tours booked within a month of departure, full payment is required at the time of booking.
After booking, you will receive a detailed tour confirmation, including flight information, visa advice, packing tips, and a final itinerary. We’ll also provide a checklist to ensure you’re fully prepared for your adventure.
Still looking for the perfect cycling adventure?
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