Off the Beaten Path 5 days 4 nights is a motorbiking tour which will take you through an entire gamut of luscious landscapes: rugged, mountainous terrain, dense woods, lush and tranquil valleys and past vibrant markets, towns and villages. It will be a whole new way of experiencing the splendors of the country.
Pickup included
Day 1: Hanoi - Na Khan ~180 km ~8 h (L/D)
This Motorbiking Tour begins with a quite long drive but easy (early departure is better) from Hanoi to Na Khan 180 km. The road is sealed all the way until Bac Kan and the last part from Bac Kan to Na Khan is wild and little bumpy. Na Khan (Chiem Hoa - Tuyen Quang) is a Tay village, lost in the middle of the primitive forest. Mr. Lo, the chef of the village will welcome us in his house.
Day 2: Na Khan - Ba Be National Park ~50 km ~2 h (B/L/D)
Short drive from Na Khan to Ba Be National Park on bumpy road. Lunch at our captain's house. Easy boating on the lake and river. Go to market (if it is the day you arrive). Stop at Widow Island for jumping, beautiful swim, We could visit the village and a small school (only few pupils during the summer) then return homestay where we enjoy dinner. Spend the night in our friend's stilt house.
Day 3: Ba Be - Quang Uyen ~170 km ~8 h (B/L/D)
Cross Ba Be lake to come back to our captain's house. Beautiful ride up to Cao Bang province. Few passes from where you can dominate the area. The road is easy but many curves. We can stop a lot. All together, stop for drinks and food it should be an 8-hour journey. Then ride 1 more hour to reach the beautiful village of Quang Hoa, in the middle of a mountain cirque. This is the territory of Nung An people. Spend the night in our friend's house.
Day 4: Quang Uyen (options) ~100 km ~2 h (or ~30 km ~1 h) (B/L/D)
Option 1: Having obtained permission from the border police we make our way through spectacular scenery to Vietnam's most impressive waterfalls. Weather permitting we can swim right up to where the 50 m high falls hit the river.
Option 2: Na Tau is a completely unknown area that we propose to discover it by raft and motorbike. Rivers and waterfalls everywhere are extremely beautiful and wild. It is only 15 km from Quang Hoa.
Day 5: Quang Uyen - Hanoi ~300 km ~9 h (B/L)
Ride from Quang Hoa to Hanoi via Lang Son. Lunch in Lang Son. The road is asphalted almost of the way and it takes 9 hours to ride back to Hanoi.
Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a vibrant city steeped in history and culture. Known for its French colonial architecture, bustling Old Quarter, and rich culinary scene, Hanoi offers a unique blend of traditional and modern experiences.
Hoan Kiem Lake is a serene oasis in the heart of Hanoi, surrounded by lush greenery and historical landmarks. The lake is a popular spot for locals and tourists to relax and enjoy the scenery.
The Old Quarter is the historic and cultural heart of Hanoi, featuring narrow streets lined with traditional shops, temples, and colonial-era architecture. It's a vibrant area with a rich history and bustling atmosphere.
The Temple of Literature is a historic Confucian temple dedicated to education and literature. It's a serene and culturally significant site, featuring beautiful architecture and a peaceful garden.
The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a significant historical site where the embalmed body of Vietnam's revolutionary leader, Ho Chi Minh, is displayed. The mausoleum is a place of pilgrimage and a symbol of Vietnam's history.
The Hanoi Opera House is a stunning example of French colonial architecture, featuring elegant design and a rich history. It's a popular venue for cultural performances and events.
A traditional Vietnamese noodle soup with a flavorful broth, rice noodles, and thinly sliced meat, typically beef or chicken.
Grilled pork patties served with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a dipping sauce.
A Vietnamese sandwich with a crispy baguette, filled with various ingredients such as grilled meat, pâté, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs.
A unique Vietnamese coffee made with strong drip coffee, condensed milk, and a frothy egg yolk mixture.
This period offers pleasant weather with lower humidity and temperatures, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is less crowded compared to the peak tourist season.
Vietnamese Dong (VND)
GMT+7
220VV, 50HzHz
Hanoi is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, petty crime and scams can occur, and travelers should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings.
Hanoi Railway Station
Giap Bat Bus Station, My Dinh Bus Station
The bus system in Hanoi is affordable and covers most of the city. However, it can be crowded and confusing for first-time visitors.
Available • Apps: Grab, Gojek
Car, Bike, Scooter
Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning limestone karsts and islets, emerald waters, and scenic beauty. It's a popular destination for cruises, kayaking, and exploring caves.
Ninh Binh is known as 'Halong Bay on land' due to its stunning limestone karsts, rice paddies, and historic sites. It's a popular destination for cycling, boat rides, and exploring ancient temples.
Sapa is a mountainous region known for its stunning rice terraces, ethnic minority villages, and trekking opportunities. It's a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and cultural experiences.
Price varies by option