Northern Vietnam, cycling

Stunning natural beauty of historic Ninh Binh

Cycling through the hills, Northern Vietnam

Cycling group taking a rest en route to Pu Luong,

New

Northern Vietnam: Hanoi to Pu Luong Cycle

Cycle northern Vietnam from Mai Chau to Ninh Binh through rice terraces and karst landscapes

Vietnam

5 Days from

$1160 USD

Trip Code: CNV

View dates to Book

Essential Information

Extra trip options & supplements

*Prices listed are per person

e-Bike Upgrade

$80 USD

Single Supplement

$230 USD

Duration

5 Days

Activities

4 days cycle

Style

In Comfort Adventures

Accommodation

4 nights hotel

Meals

3 Dinners
4 Lunches
5 Breakfasts

Difficulty Grading: Moderate
These adventures involve cycling for up to 6 or 7 hours a day at a steady pace, days may be shorter depending on the days route, which will be anywhere from 25 - 70 km, typically 40-50 kms. You will need a good level of fitness and be in good health. The more time you can spend on a bike to help you prepare, the better. Be prepared for potential variable weather conditions. Suggested preparation; 1 hour of aerobic exercise, three to four times a week and extended periods of exercise during the weekend will accustom you to regular exercise. This trip is not a race. There will be a support truck following the group on all cycling days should you choose to load your bike and watch the scenery pass from your private air conditioned group vehicle.
5 / 10
Moderate

Carbon Footprint

43kg of CO₂-e PP per day

(170kg of CO₂-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

Cycle through Mai Chau valley surrounded by rice fields and karst mountains
Ride into Pu Luong Nature Reserve past traditional villages and terraced landscapes
Traverse limestone landscapes, forested hills and river valleys
Begin and end in Hanoi, experiencing Vietnam’s capital and cultural centre

Overview

Cycle through the diverse landscapes of northern Vietnam, travelling from the energy of Hanoi to the peaceful valleys of Mai Chau, Pu Luong and Ninh Binh. After leaving the city behind, the journey begins with a scenic ride through rice paddies and traditional villages, offering an early glimpse into rural life before arriving in the Mai Chau Valley. The adventure builds as you tackle more challenging terrain en route to Pu Luong Nature Reserve, with rewarding climbs and descents through remote countryside, passing terraced rice fields and minority communities. An overnight stay in a local homestay provides a chance to unwind and experience the quieter rhythm of the region. From Pu Luong, enjoy a memorable descent before continuing toward Ninh Binh, a region often referred to as “Halong Bay on land” for its striking limestone karst formations rising from the surrounding paddies. Your final day offers a more relaxed ride through this distinctive landscape, followed by a guided boat journey through caves and hidden lagoons. Returning to Hanoi, the trip concludes with a farewell dinner — an opportunity to reflect on a rewarding journey through some of Vietnam’s most varied and visually striking regions.

Itinerary

Expand all | Collapse all

Leaving Hanoi, a transfer takes you into the foothills of northern Vietnam where the landscape quickly shifts from urban density to rural mountains. After breakfast and bike fitting, riding begins among the villages of the Muong people, with quiet roads weaving through rice paddies and forested hills. The route climbs steadily along a mix of paved roads and cross-country tracks, passing limestone karst formations and opening views toward the Hoa Binh Reservoir. A series of climbs and descents leads into the Mai Chau Valley, where steep mountains surround wide expanses of rice fields. Accommodation: Mai Chau Eco Lodge or similar Total ascent: 500–700m / 1640–2297ft

Meals: B,L,D

A sustained climb leads out of Mai Chau Valley, gaining elevation toward a more remote plateau. As the road rises, views extend across terraced hillsides and layered mountain landscapes, marking the transition into a quieter region of northern Vietnam. The route then follows shaded paths alongside streams before entering Pu Luong Nature Reserve. After a flatter section through rice fields and small villages, a second shorter but steeper climb leads to the lodge, set within the reserve’s forested valleys. Accommodation: Amigo Pu Luong Resort or similar Total ascent: 500–700m / 1640–2297ft

Meals: B,L,D

The day begins with a steep descent through Pu Luong’s terraced landscapes, dropping into the valley below. From here, the route follows a quieter cross-country track, passing through bamboo forest and more remote sections of the countryside. After a short transfer, cycling resumes toward Ninh Binh, where the landscape shifts to limestone karst formations rising sharply from rice paddies. This region, often compared to Ha Long Bay, offers a distinct change from the mountainous terrain of previous days. Tonight, we come together for our farewell dinner to celebrate the journey we’ve shared. Accommodation: Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel & Resort or similar Total ascent: 500m / 1640ft

Meals: B,L,D

The day begins with a relaxed ride through Ninh Binh’s countryside and historic landscapes. The route passes limestone formations and rural villages and is relaxed, with time to stop and take in the surrounding scenery. Cycling is followed by a 1.5hr boat journey through river caves and narrow lagoons, offering a different perspective of the region. After lunch, a transfer returns us to Hanoi by 6pm and we end the day with a farewell dinner. Accommodation: Le Jardin Hotel Haute Couture or similar

Meals: B,L

The trip concludes after breakfast in Hanoi with time for independent exploration or onward travel. The capital offers a mix of historic architecture, markets and cultural sites reflecting Vietnam’s long history. Travellers may choose to extend their stay or explore further regions. Arrangements conclude after breakfast.

Meals: B

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.

Ready to start your adventure?

18 scheduled departures between 16 Aug 2026 and 16 Dec 2027.

Departs 16 Aug 2026 – ends 20 Aug 2026 (5 days)
Departs 16 Sep 2026 – ends 20 Sep 2026 (5 days)
Departs 15 Oct 2026 – ends 19 Oct 2026 (5 days)
Departs 15 Nov 2026 – ends 19 Nov 2026 (5 days)
Departs 27 Nov 2026 – ends 1 Dec 2026 (5 days)
Departs 16 Dec 2026 – ends 20 Dec 2026 (5 days)
… and 12 more departures.

View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

All meals as specified in the itinerary: 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 3 dinners
All biking gear (mountain bike, helmet, 10L pannier, water cage)
Good quality hotel accommodation and local homestay-style accommodation in Pu Luong
Support vehicle for luggage, equipment and transfers
Sightseeing and boat trip in Ninh Binh
Experienced local cycling guides
Mechanical support during cycling days
Water, soft drinks, snacks and fruit on cycling days
Souvenir water bottle, drawstring backpack, t-shirt and cycling jersey

Not included

International flights
Airport transfers
Visas
Travel Insurance (compulsory)
Personal expenses
Meals not listed as included
Tips and gratuities
Any items not listed as included

Responsible Travel

Extra trip info

Hotel

Accommodation is in carefully selected 4–5 star properties that offer a high standard of comfort, service and location. Where possible, properties are chosen for their character and atmosphere, reflecting the destination while still delivering consistent quality. All hotels used on our cycling trips have been tested over many years and are selected based on strong traveller feedback, reliability and operational suitability for active itineraries.

Lodge

Set within a valley landscape of forested hills and rice fields, lodge-style accommodation offers a peaceful base in one of northern Vietnam’s rural regions. The surrounding area is known for its scenic beauty and the cultural traditions of local ethnic minority communities. Designed to reflect its natural setting, the lodge provides a relaxed environment with easy access to nearby villages and walking or cycling routes. Its location allows travellers to experience both the landscapes and cultural life of the region, while enjoying a quiet and comfortable stay away from larger towns.

Modern Mountain Bikes

The bikes used on this trip are modern aluminium framed, front suspension mountain bikes. Consistent and safe braking is ensured by disc brakes and the wide spread of gears provide the ability to ride up and back down the hills in comfort and confidence. If you have a saddle and clip in pedals you wish to bring and use, the mechanic would more than happy to fit them for you.

e-Bikes Available

Cycle hassle-free and climb mountains with ease, enjoy nature and landscapes without physical limitations. Electronic Bikes make it possible and are available to hire for the entire trip for an additional fee. The e-Bikes available feature Hybrid Cycling Technology, combining electric and human power to produce the most efficient, powerful and natural e-Bike riding experience. Consistent and safe braking is ensured by hydraulic disc brakes. If you have a saddle and clip in pedals you wish to bring and use, the mechanic would more than happy to fit them for you.

Our fully supported cycle trips offer backup vehicles, bike mechanics and quality local guides | Lachlan Gardiner

Support vehicle & mechanic

This cycling trip is fully supported. Sets of tools are aboard the support truck and your bike mechanic will assist with any difficulties. The vehicle support also allows you to take a break when you need it.

Cycling Northern Vietnam

Cycling between Mai Chau and Pu Luong follows a mix of sealed roads, narrow concrete paths and sections of dirt or gravel. The terrain is mountainous, with steady climbs and descents through valleys, rice terraces and forested hills. Surfaces can be uneven in places, particularly on rural tracks, but remain non-technical. The main challenge comes from elevation rather than the riding surface.

Show All|Hide All

Moderate to challenging, with daily cycling that includes climbs, descents and mixed terrain. Cycling experience is required to complete the daily distances.

Yes, this is a fully guided cycling trip supported by experienced local guides and crew.

A mix of hotels reflecting the regions visited, typically with twin-share rooms and private facilities.

No, your main luggage is transported by the support vehicle.

The best time to cycle northern Vietnam is from October to April, when conditions are generally cooler and drier.

Giant e-Bike Class 1 models are available for rent at an additional cost. Equipped with hydraulic disc brakes and powerful motors, these allow you to enjoy mountainous terrain without physical strain. Availability is limited, so please enquire early.

Carefully designed cycling route through northern Vietnam’s remote regions
Experienced local cycling guides and support crew throughout
Support vehicle available for logistics and flexibility
Combination of cultural villages, nature reserves and scenic landscapes
Responsible travel approach supporting local communities

Guaranteeing A Great Vietnam Trip

Pioneering World Firsts

Quality equipment

Quality accommodations

Innovative itineraries

Custom built, reliable transport

Our all inclusive approach

Northern Vietnam: Hanoi to Pu Luong Cycle

Trip highlights

Overview

Itinerary

Map

Elevation

Ready to start your adventure?