23-Day Motorcycle Tour | Vietnam - Top Gear Route from Hanoi to Saigon

Overview

Get ready for the ultimate motorcycle journey through Vietnam's most iconic landscapes, as featured on the legendary Top Gear Vietnam Special. This 23-day expedition takes you all the way from Hanoi to Saigon, traversing the rugged mountains of the north, the serene coastlines of Central Vietnam, and the vibrant cultures that make this country unforgettable.

Ride through remote tribal villages, explore the world’s largest caves, wind along the Hai Van Pass, and conquer jungle trails and river crossings that few tourists ever see. You’ll cover over 3,200 kilometers of the most breathtaking, adventurous terrain in Southeast Asia—all from the saddle of a dual-sport motorcycle, supported by expert local guides and a full support crew.

Whether you're here for the thrill, the scenery, or the camaraderie, this is Vietnam’s most complete motorcycle tour—and a true test of spirit and adventure.

Key information

Total Distance

3200 KM

Comfort Rating

6/10
Duration
23 Days

Tour Availability

All Year Round

Min. Group Size

2 Riders
Max. Group size
18 Riders
Bike Type
Adventure Bike, Dual Sport
Difficulty Level
Intermediate

Pillion Friendly?

No

Terrain

50% unpaved, Mountain Trails, Forest Trails, River Crossings, Gravel

Special Feature

includes-guide, mechanic-support, all-inclusive
Support level
Local Guide, Mechanic Support, Medical Support
Highlights
23-day epic route from Hanoi to Saigon
Ride the Hai Van Pass, Vietnam’s most iconic road
Explore Phong Nha National Park and its ancient cave systems
Traverse the Ho Chi Minh Trail and remote jungle backroads
Off-road challenges in the Central Highlands
Boat ride across Ba Be Lake
Rest days in Hoi An, Hue, and the beach town of Lang Co
Visit tribal markets, war relics, waterfalls, and temples
Cross the DMZ and explore historical battle zones
Day 1: Hanoi to Thac Ba Lake (160 km)


Depart at 8:00 a.m. from Hanoi and ride along the dike road beside the Red River. Stop for lunch in Doan Hung town before reaching Thac Ba Lake. Leave the bikes with a Dzao family and enjoy a boat ride on the lake. Overnight in a stilt house with a local Dzao family in Ngoi Tu village.


Day 2: Thac Ba Lake to Ba Be National Park (170 km)


Ride through national park trails and tea plantations with off-road segments. Visit Puong Cave, Ba Goa Island, and Dau Dang Waterfall. End the day in a Tay village on the banks of Ba Be Lake. Cold beers and fresh air guaranteed.


Day 3: Ba Be to Bao Lac (170 km)


Morning walk through the village. Load bikes onto a boat and cruise across Ba Be Lake. Enjoy a scenic 2-hour voyage through caves and jungle. Continue riding toward Bao Lac in the afternoon. Overnight in Bao Lac.


Day 4: Bao Lac to Dong Van (160 km)


Ride spectacular off-road sections to the Dong Van Rock Plateau. Conquer the dramatic Ma Pi Leng Pass. Expect jaw-dropping views and plenty of photo stops. Overnight in Dong Van.


Day 5: Dong Van to Ha Giang (170 km)


Ride through the Dong Van and Ha Giang karst plateaus. Visit local H’mong villages and enjoy their unique food and clothing. Arrive at your hotel in Ha Giang.


Day 6: Ha Giang to Bac Ha (180 km)


Head west through terraced rice fields and quiet mountain roads. Pass through Thai and Tay communities. Stop at local markets and end in a peaceful Tay village with a homestay.


Day 7: Bac Ha to Sapa (170 km)


Ride scenic roads toward Sapa via Lao Cai. Stop at markets and meet local artisans. Climb to nearly 2,000 meters in altitude, passing rice terraces and waterfalls. Overnight in a comfortable hotel in Sapa.


Day 8: Rest Day in Sapa


Explore the colonial charm of Sapa town. Visit local cafes, take a cable car to Hoang Lien Mountain, and enjoy views over 2,000m high. Rest, recharge, or shop around the old quarter.


Day 9: Sapa to Mu Cang Chai (180 km)


Ride over the O Quy Ho Pass, one of Vietnam’s most stunning routes. Pass peaceful villages and meet welcoming locals. Overnight in a cozy hotel in Mu Cang Chai.


Day 10: Mu Cang Chai to Phu Yen (170 km)


Experience a day with 50–70% off-road terrain. Ride past green mountains and visit remote Muong villages. Sample unique forest herb liquor with locals. Overnight in Phu Yen town.


Day 11: Phu Yen to Mai Chau (170 km)


Ride along the scenic Da River Lake and cross by ferry. Follow the mountain road through Moc Chau Plateau. Descend into Mai Chau Valley and stay in a traditional Thai village. Enjoy authentic Thai dishes and a peaceful overnight stay.


Day 12: Mai Chau to Tan Ky (250 km)


Start your journey on the historic Ho Chi Minh Trail. Ride through bamboo forests, lush valleys, and along the Ma River. Reach Tan Ky, a town steeped in wartime history. Overnight in a local guesthouse.


Day 13: Tan Ky to Phong Nha (290 km)


Ride smooth sealed roads past rice fields and tea plantations. Stop to learn about Vietnam’s tea culture. Arrive in Phong Nha by late afternoon. Optional boat trip into the famous Phong Nha Cave.


Day 14: Phong Nha to Khe Sanh (220 km)


Follow the western branch of the Ho Chi Minh Trail. Pass through Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. Stop at the historic Khe Sanh Combat Base and museum. Overnight in Khe Sanh town.


Day 15: Khe Sanh to Hue via DMZ (170 km)


Ride historic Road 9 through the former DMZ. Visit Hien Luong Bridge, 17th Parallel Museum, and Vinh Moc Tunnels. End the day in the imperial city of Hue.


Day 16: Hue to Hoi An (190 km)


Cruise down the coastline, passing fishing villages and vibrant tombs. Cross the breathtaking Hai Van Pass and reach Hoi An. Enjoy the charm of this lantern-lit riverside town.


Day 17: Rest Day in Hoi An


Relax and explore the UNESCO World Heritage town. Visit beaches, try local street food, shop for silk, or take a cyclo tour. Optional basket boat tour through the mangrove palms in Cam Thanh village.


Day 18: Hoi An to Kon Tum (290 km)


Head west toward Kham Duc, then climb Lo So Pass. Ride through Ba Na ethnic villages near the Laos border. End the day with a beer in the highland town of Kon Tum.


Day 19: Kon Tum to Buon Ma Thuot (230 km)


Ride deep into the Central Highlands. Stop at historical sites like Pleiku and the Ia Drang Valley. Arrive in Buon Ma Thuot, Vietnam’s coffee capital.


Day 20: Buon Ma Thuot to Da Lat (220 km)


Pass through coffee and rubber plantations. Stop at the World Coffee Museum for a unique tasting. Ascend into the cool, pine-covered Da Lat Plateau. Overnight in a hotel near the city center.


Day 21: Rest Day in Da Lat


Explore Da Lat, the City of Love. Visit waterfalls, flower gardens, Xuan Huong Lake, and the Valley of Love. Enjoy the cooler climate and scenic highland views.


Day 22: Da Lat to Nam Cat Tien National Park (170 km)


Ride scenic Road 20 and tackle some dirt tracks. Explore Cat Tien’s jungle and learn about its war history. Optional wildlife viewing and eco-tours in the park.


Day 23: Nam Cat Tien to Saigon (165 km)


Final leg through rural Vietnam into the energy of Saigon. Navigate busy traffic with ease thanks to your guide. Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City by afternoon and conclude the tour with hotel drop-off.

Program/Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Hanoi to Thac Ba Lake (160 km)


Depart at 8:00 a.m. from Hanoi and ride along the dike road beside the Red River. Stop for lunch in Doan Hung town before reaching Thac Ba Lake. Leave the bikes with a Dzao family and enjoy a boat ride on the lake. Overnight in a stilt house with a local Dzao family in Ngoi Tu village.


Day 2: Thac Ba Lake to Ba Be National Park (170 km)


Ride through national park trails and tea plantations with off-road segments. Visit Puong Cave, Ba Goa Island, and Dau Dang Waterfall. End the day in a Tay village on the banks of Ba Be Lake. Cold beers and fresh air guaranteed.


Day 3: Ba Be to Bao Lac (170 km)


Morning walk through the village. Load bikes onto a boat and cruise across Ba Be Lake. Enjoy a scenic 2-hour voyage through caves and jungle. Continue riding toward Bao Lac in the afternoon. Overnight in Bao Lac.


Day 4: Bao Lac to Dong Van (160 km)


Ride spectacular off-road sections to the Dong Van Rock Plateau. Conquer the dramatic Ma Pi Leng Pass. Expect jaw-dropping views and plenty of photo stops. Overnight in Dong Van.


Day 5: Dong Van to Ha Giang (170 km)


Ride through the Dong Van and Ha Giang karst plateaus. Visit local H’mong villages and enjoy their unique food and clothing. Arrive at your hotel in Ha Giang.


Day 6: Ha Giang to Bac Ha (180 km)


Head west through terraced rice fields and quiet mountain roads. Pass through Thai and Tay communities. Stop at local markets and end in a peaceful Tay village with a homestay.


Day 7: Bac Ha to Sapa (170 km)


Ride scenic roads toward Sapa via Lao Cai. Stop at markets and meet local artisans. Climb to nearly 2,000 meters in altitude, passing rice terraces and waterfalls. Overnight in a comfortable hotel in Sapa.


Day 8: Rest Day in Sapa


Explore the colonial charm of Sapa town. Visit local cafes, take a cable car to Hoang Lien Mountain, and enjoy views over 2,000m high. Rest, recharge, or shop around the old quarter.


Day 9: Sapa to Mu Cang Chai (180 km)


Ride over the O Quy Ho Pass, one of Vietnam’s most stunning routes. Pass peaceful villages and meet welcoming locals. Overnight in a cozy hotel in Mu Cang Chai.


Day 10: Mu Cang Chai to Phu Yen (170 km)


Experience a day with 50–70% off-road terrain. Ride past green mountains and visit remote Muong villages. Sample unique forest herb liquor with locals. Overnight in Phu Yen town.


Day 11: Phu Yen to Mai Chau (170 km)


Ride along the scenic Da River Lake and cross by ferry. Follow the mountain road through Moc Chau Plateau. Descend into Mai Chau Valley and stay in a traditional Thai village. Enjoy authentic Thai dishes and a peaceful overnight stay.


Day 12: Mai Chau to Tan Ky (250 km)


Start your journey on the historic Ho Chi Minh Trail. Ride through bamboo forests, lush valleys, and along the Ma River. Reach Tan Ky, a town steeped in wartime history. Overnight in a local guesthouse.


Day 13: Tan Ky to Phong Nha (290 km)


Ride smooth sealed roads past rice fields and tea plantations. Stop to learn about Vietnam’s tea culture. Arrive in Phong Nha by late afternoon. Optional boat trip into the famous Phong Nha Cave.


Day 14: Phong Nha to Khe Sanh (220 km)


Follow the western branch of the Ho Chi Minh Trail. Pass through Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. Stop at the historic Khe Sanh Combat Base and museum. Overnight in Khe Sanh town.


Day 15: Khe Sanh to Hue via DMZ (170 km)


Ride historic Road 9 through the former DMZ. Visit Hien Luong Bridge, 17th Parallel Museum, and Vinh Moc Tunnels. End the day in the imperial city of Hue.


Day 16: Hue to Hoi An (190 km)


Cruise down the coastline, passing fishing villages and vibrant tombs. Cross the breathtaking Hai Van Pass and reach Hoi An. Enjoy the charm of this lantern-lit riverside town.


Day 17: Rest Day in Hoi An


Relax and explore the UNESCO World Heritage town. Visit beaches, try local street food, shop for silk, or take a cyclo tour. Optional basket boat tour through the mangrove palms in Cam Thanh village.


Day 18: Hoi An to Kon Tum (290 km)


Head west toward Kham Duc, then climb Lo So Pass. Ride through Ba Na ethnic villages near the Laos border. End the day with a beer in the highland town of Kon Tum.


Day 19: Kon Tum to Buon Ma Thuot (230 km)


Ride deep into the Central Highlands. Stop at historical sites like Pleiku and the Ia Drang Valley. Arrive in Buon Ma Thuot, Vietnam’s coffee capital.


Day 20: Buon Ma Thuot to Da Lat (220 km)


Pass through coffee and rubber plantations. Stop at the World Coffee Museum for a unique tasting. Ascend into the cool, pine-covered Da Lat Plateau. Overnight in a hotel near the city center.


Day 21: Rest Day in Da Lat


Explore Da Lat, the City of Love. Visit waterfalls, flower gardens, Xuan Huong Lake, and the Valley of Love. Enjoy the cooler climate and scenic highland views.


Day 22: Da Lat to Nam Cat Tien National Park (170 km)


Ride scenic Road 20 and tackle some dirt tracks. Explore Cat Tien’s jungle and learn about its war history. Optional wildlife viewing and eco-tours in the park.


Day 23: Nam Cat Tien to Saigon (165 km)


Final leg through rural Vietnam into the energy of Saigon. Navigate busy traffic with ease thanks to your guide. Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City by afternoon and conclude the tour with hotel drop-off.

This 23-day motorbike expedition includes 22 nights of accommodation across Vietnam’s most iconic landscapes, blending comfort with cultural authenticity:

Local Guesthouses & Homestays: Experience immersive village life in places like Thac Ba, Ba Be, Bao Lac, Bac Ha, Mai Chau, and Nam Cat Tien. Stay with Dzao, Tay, Thai, and other ethnic communities in stilt houses and traditional rural lodges.

Standard Hotels: Enjoy comfortable hotel stays in key towns such as Dong Van, Ha Giang, Sapa, Hue, Hoi An, Buon Ma Thuot, and Da Lat. These offer private rooms, warm local service, and a chance to unwind after long riding days.

Eco-Lodges & Nature Retreats: Select nights include scenic accommodations near lakes, national parks, and highland plateaus—such as Phong Nha and Da Lat—where nature and tranquility define the experience.

Twin share by default, with private room upgrades available upon request for an additional fee.

This 23-day motorbike expedition includes 22 nights of accommodation across Vietnam’s most iconic landscapes, blending comfort with cultural authenticity:

Local Guesthouses & Homestays: Experience immersive village life in places like Thac Ba, Ba Be, Bao Lac, Bac Ha, Mai Chau, and Nam Cat Tien. Stay with Dzao, Tay, Thai, and other ethnic communities in stilt houses and traditional rural lodges.

Standard Hotels: Enjoy comfortable hotel stays in key towns such as Dong Van, Ha Giang, Sapa, Hue, Hoi An, Buon Ma Thuot, and Da Lat. These offer private rooms, warm local service, and a chance to unwind after long riding days.

Eco-Lodges & Nature Retreats: Select nights include scenic accommodations near lakes, national parks, and highland plateaus—such as Phong Nha and Da Lat—where nature and tranquility define the experience.

Twin share by default, with private room upgrades available upon request for an additional fee.

22 nights accommodation
Honda XR150 Motorcycle rental (upgrade available)
Fuel throughout the tour
English-speaking local guide and mechanic
All breakfasts, lunches, and dinners
Drinking water during riding days
Boat ride on Ba Be Lake
All entrance fees to national parks and attractions
Road tolls, permits, and paperwork
Hotel pick-up/drop-off in Hanoi
Helmet, gloves, jacket, and knee protection. Bring your own boots if preferred.
Flights (international or domestic)
Vietnam visa fees (if applicable)
Alcoholic drinks or soft beverages
Personal travel insurance (mandatory)
Personal expenses, souvenirs, tips
Damage to the motorcycle (unless insurance is purchased)
Single room surcharge (if not sharing)
22 nights accommodation
Honda XR150 Motorcycle rental (upgrade available)
Fuel throughout the tour
English-speaking local guide and mechanic
All breakfasts, lunches, and dinners
Drinking water during riding days
Boat ride on Ba Be Lake
All entrance fees to national parks and attractions
Road tolls, permits, and paperwork
Hotel pick-up/drop-off in Hanoi
Helmet, gloves, jacket, and knee protection. Bring your own boots if preferred.
Flights (international or domestic)
Vietnam visa fees (if applicable)
Alcoholic drinks or soft beverages
Personal travel insurance (mandatory)
Personal expenses, souvenirs, tips
Damage to the motorcycle (unless insurance is purchased)
Single room surcharge (if not sharing)
Start your adventure in Hanoi and follow the exciting itinerary that is listed above!
Start your adventure in Hanoi and follow the exciting itinerary that is listed above!

For riders looking to upgrade or customize their experience, we offer a range of motorcycle models and extras suited to different riding styles, preferences, and comfort levels. All upgrades are priced per day and apply across the full 13-day tour.

  • Honda XR150L – Included in base price
    Great for beginners and riders who prefer a light, easy-to-handle dual-sport.

  • Honda CRF250L+$20 USD per day
    A solid mid-tier upgrade for those seeking more torque and suspension travel.

  • Honda CRF300L+$40 USD per day
    A premium lightweight dual-sport with upgraded performance and agility for rougher terrain.

  • Support Truck+$150 USD per day (shared)
    Perfect for carrying luggage, spare parts, and non-riders. Split between group members.

  • Private Room Upgrade+$40 USD per night
    For riders who want their own room throughout the tour. Adds up to $480 total.

  • Protective Riding GearIncluded
    Includes helmet, gloves, jacket, and knee protection. Bring your own boots if preferred.


Rider Responsibility

  • Riders must have sufficient motorcycle experience, especially for rural and off-road conditions.

  • All riders must inspect their motorcycle before departure and report any pre-existing issues.

  • Any damage caused by reckless handling, accidents, or theft must be paid by the rider.

  • Helmets are mandatory at all times during the ride.

For riders looking to upgrade or customize their experience, we offer a range of motorcycle models and extras suited to different riding styles, preferences, and comfort levels. All upgrades are priced per day and apply across the full 13-day tour.

  • Honda XR150L – Included in base price
    Great for beginners and riders who prefer a light, easy-to-handle dual-sport.

  • Honda CRF250L+$20 USD per day
    A solid mid-tier upgrade for those seeking more torque and suspension travel.

  • Honda CRF300L+$40 USD per day
    A premium lightweight dual-sport with upgraded performance and agility for rougher terrain.

  • Support Truck+$150 USD per day (shared)
    Perfect for carrying luggage, spare parts, and non-riders. Split between group members.

  • Private Room Upgrade+$40 USD per night
    For riders who want their own room throughout the tour. Adds up to $480 total.

  • Protective Riding GearIncluded
    Includes helmet, gloves, jacket, and knee protection. Bring your own boots if preferred.


Rider Responsibility

  • Riders must have sufficient motorcycle experience, especially for rural and off-road conditions.

  • All riders must inspect their motorcycle before departure and report any pre-existing issues.

  • Any damage caused by reckless handling, accidents, or theft must be paid by the rider.

  • Helmets are mandatory at all times during the ride.

Vietnam Motorcycle Tours is a dedicated local operator known for diverse routes (mountain passes, Ho Chi Minh Trail, Mekong Delta). Offers well-structured tours with bilingual guides, flexible itineraries, and cultural immersion.
Vietnam Motorcycle Tours is a dedicated local operator known for diverse routes (mountain passes, Ho Chi Minh Trail, Mekong Delta). Offers well-structured tours with bilingual guides, flexible itineraries, and cultural immersion.

Tour Information & Request

23-Day Motorcycle Tour | Vietnam - Top Gear Route from Hanoi to Saigon

Starting Point

Hanoi

Motorcycle

Honda XR150L

Starting From

USD 3600

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23-Day Motorcycle Tour | Vietnam - Top Gear Route from Hanoi to Saigon