Hoang Su Phi: A Hidden Gem for Nature Lovers and Adventure Seekers

Embark on a 5-day cycling adventure from Bac Ha to Hoang Su Phi, an unforgettable Vietnam mountain cycling tour designed for travelers seeking an authentic and immersive experience. This 5-day Northern Vietnam bike tour takes you along remote cycling routes in Northern Vietnam, from Lao Cai to Xuan Minh, through breathtaking landscapes and vibrant ethnic minority villages. You'll explore the lively Bac Ha Market, cycle past cascading Hoang Su Phi rice terraces, and visit the traditional Tay and Dao villages, all while enjoying a carefully curated Northern Vietnam cycling itinerary. With each pedal stroke, this Cycling tour Bac Ha Hoang Su Phi reveals hidden cultural gems and rich traditions. Highlights include the scenic Ho Thau cycling trail, the peaceful Nam Hong cycling route, and a meaningful stop at Ban Phung during your ethnic village cycling Vietnam experience. As part of a Vietnam highland cycling tour, this route showcases the best of cycling in Ha Giang Province and the beauty of cycling through rice terraces in Vietnam. Operated by Snail Adventure Tours Cycling, a leader in sustainable tourism in Vietnam, this journey offers a truly authentic Vietnam bike experience. Ideal for those seeking a Vietnam bike tour off the beaten path, it’s the perfect cultural and active cycling tour in the Vietnam highlands. Whether you're after a Ha Giang cycling tour, a Vietnam cycling holiday, or simply wish to explore Northern Vietnam by bike in 5 days, this is the ultimate Vietnam hill tribe adventure and a premier bike tour through the rice terraces of Hoang Su Phi.

Day 1: Morning Train to Lao Cai – Transfer to Muong Khuong – Cycle to Bac Ha

Welcome to the first day of your 5-day Northern Vietnam bike tour, an unforgettable Vietnam mountain cycling tour that takes you deep into the remote highlands. Your journey begins early as the train arrives at Lao Cai Station at 5:30 a.m., where our expert local guide from Snail Adventure Tours Cycling will greet you with a warm welcome. After a hearty breakfast at a local restaurant, we’ll transfer by bus to Muong Khuong, a scenic frontier district known for its rugged terrain and cultural diversity—setting the tone for this incredible Vietnam bike tour off the beaten path.
After a two-hour drive filled with breathtaking views of Northern Vietnam’s ethnic minority villages and lush valleys, we’ll prepare our gear and meet the support team in Muong Khuong. Then, we begin our exciting ride—part of a truly unique cycling tour from Bac Ha to Hoang Su Phi—with a 28 km journey over mixed gravel and asphalt roads. As we cycle toward Lung Khau Nhin, you'll witness the raw beauty of Vietnam’s highlands, from towering mountains to vibrant terraced fields—perfect for travelers seeking a Vietnam hill tribe adventure.
This section of the route features challenging climbs, rough tracks, and potholes, making it ideal for thrill-seekers on a remote cycling route in Northern Vietnam. But every effort is rewarded with panoramic views and intimate glimpses of traditional life in the mountains. This part of the ethnic village cycling Vietnam experience takes us past remote valleys and authentic communities rarely seen by outsiders.
After a well-earned picnic lunch en route, we continue our scenic ride past Coc Ly Bridge, eventually arriving in Bac Ha, home to the famous Bac Ha Market and a hub of Tay and Dao villages. By evening, you’ll settle in and reflect on your incredible start to this cultural and active cycling tour in Vietnam’s highlands. Day 1 of your Lao Cai to Xuan Minh bike ride delivers not only natural splendor but also the kind of immersive, authentic Vietnam bike experience that defines sustainable, adventure-based travel.
Summary:
Activities:Cycling and transferring
Accommodations: Legend Home
Meals:B/L/D
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/42859079
Distance:    75.5 km
Elevation:    + 2787 / - 2616 m

Day 2: Bac Ha – Coc Pai – Ban Phung

After a delicious breakfast in Bac Ha, we begin Day 2 of your 5-day Northern Vietnam bike tour with a short vehicle transfer to bypass a steep mountain pass—saving your energy for what’s to come. Today’s route offers one of the most rewarding rides of the entire Bac Ha to Hoang Su Phi cycling tour, leading you deep into one of the most remote corners of northeast Vietnam. As part of our Vietnam mountain cycling tour, this ride is the perfect blend of cultural immersion, rugged adventure, and breathtaking scenery.
We start cycling on a newly paved road with a gradual 10 km ascent, gaining approximately 400 meters in elevation. From there, the adventure intensifies as we transition onto a rough, unsealed trail that runs for 15 km through isolated ethnic minority villages. This path showcases the best of ethnic village cycling Vietnam, offering close encounters with the traditional lifestyles of the Tay, Nung, Flower H’mong, La Chi, and Hoa communities.
A spectacular 1,000-meter descent leads us into Xin Man, a rustic mountain town nestled along the Vietnam–China border. Surrounded by dense forests and wild, rugged peaks, Xin Man is a cultural crossroads, home to 15 ethnic groups who coexist in harmony in one of the region’s most untouched landscapes. This section of the Vietnam highland cycling tour is ideal for those seeking a Vietnam bike tour off the beaten path and offers an unforgettable window into local culture and nature.
After a hearty local lunch, we cross the Chay River and continue on a 40 km stretch of tranquil, riverside road. This scenic section features sweeping views of Hoang Su Phi rice terraces, emerald hills, and remote hill tribe villages—a highlight of any Ha Giang cycling tour. The route also includes intimate encounters with locals along the Nam Hong cycling route, reinforcing the tour’s commitment to sustainable tourism in Vietnam.
The day ends with a long, steady climb into the peaceful mountain village of Ban Phung, a hidden gem perched among lush valleys and stepped rice paddies. This part of the journey exemplifies cycling through rice terraces Vietnam and provides a true authentic Vietnam bike experience. As the sun sets over the mountains, you’ll settle into this serene village setting—tired but inspired by another day of extraordinary adventure cycling in Hoang Su Phi.
Summary: 
Activity: Cycling 
Accommodation: La Chi Phong Eco
Meals: B/L/D
Distance:    66.1 km
Elevation:    + 2175m / - 2485 m
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/47934034

Day 3: Ban Phung – Ban Luoc – Suoi Thau – Ho Thau

Waking up in Ban Phung, you’ll find yourself in one of the most stunning and serene corners of the Vietnam highlands. Nestled at over 1,500 meters above sea level, this remote village is famed for its breathtaking terraced rice fields—an iconic feature of the Hoang Su Phi rice terraces. In the early morning, the mist weaves through the stepped hills, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that defines the magic of cycling through rice terraces in Vietnam.
Today’s ride is one of the most scenic and memorable in our 5-day Northern Vietnam bike tour and a highlight of the overall Bac Ha to Hoang Su Phi cycling tour. After a hearty breakfast, we’ll begin our descent from Ban Phung, cycling down winding mountain paths toward the main road. This descent offers expansive views of remote valleys and vibrant local farms—an unforgettable part of your Vietnam mountain cycling tour. As we leave the main road and head onto smaller village trails, we’ll pass through a series of challenging climbs and thrilling descents, cycling along narrow ridges and dirt paths surrounded by verdant hills, colorful flowers, and the gentle rhythms of rural life. This segment of the route captures the essence of ethnic village cycling Vietnam, offering a deep dive into the landscapes and traditions of Vietnam’s ethnic minority villages, including the Tay, Dao, and H’mong communities.
Midday, we’ll stop for a delicious lunch in Ban Luoc, a peaceful village known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional farming methods. From there, we continue along rugged mountain trails toward Ho Thau, taking in breathtaking panoramas, misty valleys, and dramatic peaks—a dream for those craving a true Vietnam bike tour off the beaten path.
This section of the ride is particularly rewarding for cyclists seeking remote cycling routes in Northern Vietnam, as it combines technical challenge with incredible natural beauty. Ho Thau is one of the jewels of the Ha Giang cycling tour, renowned for its high-altitude vistas and photogenic cloudscapes. The route showcases why this region is a top pick for those looking for a cultural and active cycling tour in Vietnam’s highlands. The day ends with a scenic descent into Ho Thau Village, where we’ll rest and recharge. Surrounded by mountains and rich tribal culture, this peaceful village marks the end of another spectacular chapter in your authentic Vietnam bike experience, curated with care by Snail Adventure Tours Cycling.
Summary:
Activities:Cycling from village - Hotel
Accommodation: Ho Thau  Ecovillage Bungalow
Meals:B/L/D
Cycling distance: 56 Km
Elevation:    + 2237 / - 2287 m
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/42065253

Day 4: Ho Thau – Nam Ai – Suoi Thau – Nam Hong

Wake up to pure serenity in Ho Thau, deep in the heart of Ha Giang Province, where fresh mountain air, rolling mist, and the poetic beauty of dawn create a magical start to the day. Surrounded by panoramic views of the Hoang Su Phi rice terraces, this quiet village is an ideal launching point for another unforgettable stage of your Vietnam highland cycling tour.
After a delicious breakfast at our eco-friendly lodge, we begin today’s Ho Thau cycling trail—a journey through some of the most awe-inspiring scenery in all of Northern Vietnam. As we set off, our path winds through a patchwork of terraced rice fields, crystal-clear streams, and timeless ethnic minority villages. With every turn, you'll experience the unfiltered beauty of cycling rural Vietnam, where nature and culture blend seamlessly.
Today’s route is a highlight of our 5-day Northern Vietnam bike tour, offering rich encounters with local life and incredible views of cascading terraces that glow golden during harvest season. It’s an ideal moment for those looking to capture the spirit of cycling through rice terraces in Vietnam and immerse themselves in the traditions of Tay and Dao villages. As we ride past Nam Ai and Suoi Thau, we’ll continue along peaceful trails that few tourists ever see—a perfect fit for adventurers craving a Vietnam bike tour off the beaten path. This is where the remote cycling routes of Northern Vietnam truly shine, offering a sensory journey through untouched landscapes and authentic village scenes.
After a hearty lunch at a welcoming ethnic village, we resume our cycling tour from Bac Ha to Hoang Su Phi, enjoying sweeping views of towering peaks and serene valleys. Along the way, you’ll pass hill tribe communities living in harmony with nature—a core highlight of any cultural and active cycling tour in Vietnam’s highlands. We finish the day in the peaceful hamlet of Nam Hong, a tranquil mountain village perched among lush rice fields and forested hills. The calm beauty of Nam Hong Village offers a perfect conclusion to this leg of the Lao Cai to Xuan Minh bike ride, giving you time to relax, reflect, and take in the richness of your authentic Vietnam bike experience.
Summary:
Activities:Cycling from village - Hotel
Accommodation: Hoang Su Phi Bungalow
Meals:B/L/D
Cycling distance: 42 Km
Total climbing distance: 16 km
Total downhill: 36 Km
Distance:    42.8 km
Elevation:    + 1252 / - 1613 m

Day 5: Nam Hong – Xuan Minh – Viet Quang – Hanoi

It’s hard to believe the final day of our incredible 5-day Northern Vietnam bike tour has arrived! As the sun rises over the misty mountains of Nam Hong Village, we savor a final breakfast in the heart of the highlands. Today marks the conclusion of our Bac Ha to Hoang Su Phi cycling tour, but the unforgettable memories of this Vietnam mountain cycling tour will stay with you forever.
We begin with a downhill ride from Nam Hong to Thong Nguyen Commune, a scenic stretch that captures the essence of cycling rural Vietnam. Along the way, we stop at a colorful local market hosted by the Dao ethnic group, where you’ll have the chance to interact with the friendly locals and witness daily life in one of Vietnam’s most vibrant ethnic minority villages. This immersive moment is a highlight of any cultural bike tour in Vietnam, offering authentic insight into traditional highland lifestyles.
Continuing through rugged terrain and peaceful hamlets, we cycle past ancient tea forests, towering ridgelines, and deep green valleys. This section of the ride, from Nam Hong to Xuan Minh, showcases some of the most untouched and scenic landscapes in the Ha Giang cycling tour. It’s a fitting finale for anyone seeking remote cycling routes in Northern Vietnam and a true Vietnam bike tour off the beaten path.
In Xuan Minh, we conclude the final stretch of our Lao Cai to Xuan Minh bike ride and reunite with our support vehicle in Viet Quang Commune. Here, we celebrate the end of our cycling journey with a delicious lunch at a local eatery—sharing stories, laughter, and a final toast to the adventure.
After lunch, we board the bus for a scenic five-hour drive back to Hanoi, journeying through the spectacular countryside that we’ve spent the past five days exploring by bike. This final transfer offers time to reflect on the inspiring mountain trails, meaningful cultural encounters, and the immersive beauty that defines sustainable tourism in Vietnam. As your Vietnam highland cycling tour comes to a close, we at Snail Adventure Tours Cycling thank you for joining us on this enriching journey through the heart of Northern Vietnam. We hope this authentic Vietnam bike experience has left you inspired, recharged, and ready for your next great adventure.
Summary:
Activities:Cycling from village - Hotel
Accommodation: By Yourself
Meals:B/L/
Cycling distance: 41 Km
Total climbing distance: 10 km
Total downhill: 31 Km
Distance:    41.8 km
Elevation:    + 826 / - 1397 m
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/42065361

Important Notes

We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance that includes coverage for emergency medical evacuation when traveling in Vietnam.
Tour pricing is valid for 45 days from the date of this offer. After this period, prices and conditions may be subject to adjustment.
Airfare is subject to change without prior notice from the airlines and will be confirmed at the time of ticket issuance.
Reservations during peak travel periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, Vietnamese Lunar New Year, National Holidays) may incur additional surcharges.
Hotel check-in time is typically from 14:00 PM, and check-out time is by 10:00 AM. Early check-in or late check-out can be arranged upon request and may involve a supplementary fee.
Please note that none of the mentioned services or tours have been booked at this stage. They are proposed for your consideration only. Bookings will only be made upon receiving your written confirmation.
In the event any proposed service is unavailable at the time of booking, we will make every effort to find alternative options of similar quality to maintain the integrity of your travel itinerary.

Meals

If you have any specific dietary requirements—such as vegetarian, vegan, or any food allergies—please let us know in advance. This allows us to notify our restaurants, tour guides, and local partners to ensure your meals are prepared accordingly and that you are well taken care of throughout your journey.
For food enthusiasts, Snail Adventure Tours can also be your culinary guide. We offer you the opportunity to savor authentic local specialties, from regional delicacies to world-famous Vietnamese dishes. Every meal is a chance to explore Vietnam’s rich culinary heritage and deepen your cultural experience.

Tour Inclusions

Experienced English-speaking cycling guide
(Other language guides available upon request)
Accommodations based on twin/double occupancy at local hotels and homestays
All meals as detailed in the itinerary
(5 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners)
All ground transportation with air-conditioned support vehicles
Support van or bus available during cycling segments for rest or assistance
Support truck for luggage and logistics (for group sizes of 6 or more)
Use of Trek or Cannondale mountain bikes with disc brakes & helmet included
All sightseeing excursions and entrance fees as outlined in the itinerary
Full bike support kit including bike tools, pumps, spare tubes, and backup bikes
First aid kit carried by the guide for your safety
Cold water box & fresh hand towels available during ride days
Daily mineral water for hydration
Fresh fruits and snacks provided during cycling days

Tour Exclusions

International and domestic airfare
(Unless specified in the itinerary)
Vietnam visa fees and processing costs
Travel insurance (strongly recommended, including emergency evacuation coverage)
Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone, and shopping
Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks (unless otherwise specified)
Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and support staff
(At your discretion, but highly appreciated)
 Early check-in or late check-out at hotels
(Standard check-in: 14:00 | Check-out: 10:00)
Optional excursions or activities not included in the itinerary
Bike damage or loss not covered under standard wear and tear
Any other services not clearly mentioned under Tour Inclusions

Creating Unique Touring Experiences

At Snail Adventure Tours, we believe that travel should be as unique as the traveler. All the cycling and touring itineraries featured on our website are thoughtfully designed by our experienced in-country management teams. Each journey reflects our deep knowledge of the region and our commitment to delivering authentic, immersive, and meaningful travel experiences.
While we proudly stand behind every itinerary—each one offering a carefully curated blend of culture, adventure, and local connection—we also understand that no two travelers are the same. Whether you're dreaming of a custom Vietnam cycling tour, a multi-country adventure through Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar, or a tailor-made itinerary that matches your pace and passions, our dedicated consultants are here to help. Let us craft a personalized travel experience that reflects your interests, travel style, and sense of adventure. Simply reach out, and together, we’ll build a journey that’s entirely your own.