7 Day Northern Vietnam Cycling Tours | Sapa to Ho Thau Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable 7 day Vietnam bike tour through the majestic landscapes of the Far North with our expertly crafted Far North Vietnam cycling tour. This Northern Vietnam bike tour takes you deep into the heart of Vietnam’s rugged mountains and vibrant ethnic communities, offering a true Vietnam cycling adventure. Starting with an exhilarating Sapa cycling tour, you'll explore hidden trails on a Sapa backroad cycling route before venturing into lesser-known gems on the Nam Cang bike tour and the scenic Vinh Yen cycling trip. The journey continues along the iconic Bac Ha bike route, perfect for those seeking a unique Bac Ha cycling tour experience. Tackle the challenging yet rewarding Nam Hong mountain biking trails and complete your ride on the dramatic Ho Thau cycling loop, culminating in a stunning Hanoi to Ho Thau cycling finale.
This immersive journey is ideal for those looking for a Vietnam countryside cycling experience that combines natural beauty with cultural discovery. Designed as a Vietnam bikepacking tour and mountain biking Vietnam adventure, it’s perfect for thrill-seekers and explorers craving an off-the-beaten-path Vietnam journey. Engage with hill tribe communities on this enriching Vietnam hill tribe cycling expedition, and uncover the charm of remote villages on an authentic ethnic village cycling tour.
Whether you're a seasoned rider or a passionate explorer, this cycling holiday in Vietnam delivers a well-rounded Vietnam active travel tour. Discover rural Vietnam bike tours with purpose and connection through a Vietnam eco-adventure tour that supports local communities. Follow the Sapa to Bac Ha cycling itinerary, experience the best cycling routes around Sapa and Bac Ha, and enjoy a scenic cycling holiday in Northern Vietnam. This private guided cycling tour Far North Vietnam offers a rare chance to enjoy a Vietnam bike tour through minority villages and a truly epic adventure cycling trip Hanoi to Ho Thau. Ready to ride Vietnam’s most scenic roads? This is your ultimate 7 day offbeat cycling tour Far North Vietnam.

Day 01: Sapa – Sau Chua – Ta Phin – Tram Ton – Sin Chai – Cat Cat - Sapa

Embark a thrilling cycling adventure from Sapa, one of the most scenic towns in Northern Vietnam. Start your ride by descending into the picturesque Muong Hoa Valley, where you’ll join a single-track trail, winding through dense bamboo groves and a lush forest canopy. Your journey leads you to the peaceful Sau Chua village, located in the northeastern part of Sapa, where you’ll be surrounded by rugged mountains and pristine nature in this misty valley. As you continue along the single-track trail, you’ll pass a traditional Hmong village before reaching a junction where you'll switch to a secondary road. This road winds through rice terraces, offering breathtaking views of the Sapa mountains and passing by lush botanical and herbal gardens. Eventually, you’ll reach a ruined Catholic church perched on the hillside.
Your next challenge will take you up to the church ruins before descending on a thrilling single-track downhill ride to the charming Ta Phin village. This village is home to the Red Dao ethnic minority, and here you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the fascinating culture, customs, and traditions of the Red Dao people. After immersing yourself in the local culture, it’s time to hop back on your bike and tackle the rolling hills as you wind through forests and rice terraces towards O Quy Ho, the highest mountain pass in Vietnam. Enjoy panoramic views of the stunning Muong Hoa Valley, one of the most beautiful landscapes in the country, before descending into the Sapa Valley. Your ride continues through scenic mountainous roads and terraced fields as you reach Sin Chai and Cat Cat Village. At Cat Cat Village, you’ll conquer a short but steep pass, navigating the mountainside before completing your cycle back to Sapa Town. For those who prefer to save energy, a support vehicle transfer back to your hotel is available. This Sapa cycling tour promises to be an unforgettable experience, combining stunning natural landscapes, challenging trails, and a rich cultural immersion with the local ethnic minorities of Northern Vietnam.
Summary:
Activity: Picking up andTransferring 
Accommodation: 
Meals:L/D
Transferring distance: 45 Km
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/43697573

Day 02: Sapa – Muong Hoa Valley – Su Pan – Thanh Phu – Nam Cang

After a restful morning, we set off on our cycling adventure from Sapa, heading into the breathtaking Muong Hoa Valley to explore the highlights of this stunning region. Sapa Valley is known for its incredible rice terraces, vibrant hill tribe villages, and panoramic scenery, making it one of the most scenic areas in Northern Vietnam. We leave the bustling town behind as we begin our journey through this tranquil landscape.
Starting from Sapa town, we follow a dirt road leading to the Black Hmong village of Y Linh Ho, where we join a scenic concrete road winding through lush bamboo groves, rice terraces, and local ethnic minority villages. This road leads us to Lao Chai, where we’ll stop for a refreshing coffee or tea break and have time to explore the village. After recharging, we continue our cycling tour in Sapa, traversing a mix of paved roads, single tracks, and dirt roads. One of the highlights today is crossing a traditional suspension bridge that leads us to Lao Chai – Ta Van Village, where we’ll meet the local people and learn more about their culture and lifestyle. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit local homes and experience life in these fascinating villages.
After crossing the bridge again and returning to the paved road, we cycle towards Su Phan and descend through Den Thang, Thanh Kim, and Thanh Phu, where we’ll enjoy a homemade lunch with a local family. Refueled and refreshed, we hop back on our bikes to continue on a mix of single tracks and dirt roads, passing through many more villages, streams, and scenic views as we make our way to Nam Cang Riverside Lodge. Here, we’ll spend the night with a welcoming Dao family, where we’ll enjoy a delicious dinner and experience the warmth of a traditional homestay. This Sapa cycling tour offers an unforgettable adventure, exploring the stunning landscapes of Muong Hoa Valley, visiting local villages, and immersing yourself in the culture of the ethnic minorities in Northern Vietnam.
Summary:
Activity: Picking up andTransferring 
Accommodation: Nam Cang Riverside
Meals:L/D
Transferring distance: 59 Km
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/45684977
+1673m – 2367 m
 
Day 03: Nam Cang – Thanh Phu – Gia Phu – Vinh Yen

Start your day bright and early with the opportunity to explore local activities in Nam Cang or simply enjoy a peaceful walk around the village, soaking in the stunning natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. After a hearty breakfast of traditional Vietnamese pancakes and banana cake, enjoy a soothing cup of herbal tea with your host. Then, it's time to embark on an unforgettable cycling tour!
We'll begin our ride from the homestay passing through picturesque ethnic minority villages, vibrant rice terraces, peaceful streams, and winding buffalo roads that lead us to Sin Chai A, Thanh Phu, Nam Cang, Nam Sai, and Suoi Thau. This route offers a truly authentic glimpse into rural life in Northern Vietnam. After an invigorating ride through this breathtaking landscape, we'll stop for lunch in Suoi Thau.
Our journey continues along an undulating path, offering panoramic views of the magnificent limestone mountains and the serene hill tribe villages that dot the landscape. As we approach the Xuan Giao Section, prepare for a thrilling challenge with a steep pass that rewards you with awe-inspiring scenery. Finally, after reaching the finish line, we'll meet our support vehicle for a transfer to the charming Vinh Yen village, where we’ll check in and enjoy a well-deserved dinner in the peaceful Vinh Yen Commune. This day of the Vietnam cycling tour showcases the incredible beauty of Northern Vietnam's landscapes, with lush rice terraces, stunning mountain views, and the opportunity to interact with local ethnic communities.
Summary:
Activity: Cycling from Village - Village
Accommodation: Cinnammon Ecolodge
Meals:B/L/D
Cycling distance: 97 Km
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/45685024
Elevation gain: +1928 M – 2511M

Day 04: Vinh Yen – Nghia Do – Ban Lien – Bac Ha Cycling Adventure

Get ready for an unforgettable day filled with breathtaking scenery and cultural discoveries as we cycle through stunning rice terraces, remote hill tribe villages, and picturesque landscapes in the heart of northern Vietnam!
After a hearty breakfast at the Ecolodge, we’ll begin our cycling journey on an asphalt road for 20 km, heading to the Nghia Do section. From here, we’ll transition onto a single-track trail and rugged dirt paths, taking on the challenge of the hilly terrain as we pass through serene villages surrounded by lush rice terraces. Get ready to be immersed in the natural beauty of the Tan Tien Commune!
We’re in for an exciting challenge! We'll tackle a thrilling 12 km climb from Tan Xuan to the top of the Ban Lien Pass. Once we reach the summit, we’ll enjoy an exhilarating descent to Ban Lien Village, where we’ll stop for a well-deserved picnic lunch surrounded by mountain views. After recharging, it’s time to continue our cycling adventure with a 10 km ride through steep mountain passes, winding through tropical forests. The panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and Nam Khanh will be absolutely breathtaking.  To end the day, we’ll cycle along the undulating roads leading to Bac Ha Town, passing the hydropower plant and enjoying another scenic descent.
Summary:
Activities:Cycling from village - Hotel
Accommodation: Sao Mai Hotel
Meals:B/L/D
Cycling distance: 55 Km
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/45078523

Day 05: Bac Ha – Coc Pai – Thong Nguyen Cycling Adventure

Get ready for an unforgettable cycling adventure through the remote and stunning northeastern Vietnam! Today, we’ll embark on a thrilling ride to Xin Man, one of the hidden gems near the Vietnam-China border, known for its breathtaking mountain landscapes, wild forests, and rich cultural diversity. We start our day with a gentle 10 km climb gaining 400 meters on a newly paved road, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. After this, we’ll turn onto an unsealed rough track for the next 15 km, cycling through rural tribal areas where we’ll experience the authentic beauty of ethnic minority villages.
Then, prepare for a big descent as we drop 1,000 meters into Xin Man. This remote village is surrounded by dramatic mountains and is home to 15 ethnic groups, including the Nung, Flower H'mong, Tay, La Chi, Kinh, and Hoa.After a hearty lunch, we’ll cross the Chay River and continue cycling for 40 km along a quiet road, following a gentle incline towards Hoang Su Phi. Along the way, we’ll be rewarded with incredible views of the river and lush, rolling hills.
Summary:
Activities: Cycling from Hotel - Hotel
Accommodation : Pan Hou Ecolodge***
Meals: B/L/D
Cycling Distance: 78km

Day 06: Thong Nguyen – Ho Thau Cycling Adventure

Imagine waking up surrounded by the vast, awe-inspiring beauty of northern Vietnam, breathing in fresh mountain air, and watching the mists rise over the dreamy valleys every morning – it’s a memorable experience you won’t forget. After a delicious Vietnamese breakfast, we’re off on our bikes for another unforgettable cycling journey! Today’s route takes us along a single track trail, winding through terraced rice fields, and tranquil villages nestled in the mountainous landscapes. As we cycle through this picturesque countryside, we’ll cross small streams leading to irrigation canals, flowing into golden rice paddies that dot the hillsides.
Today, we’re diving deep into the golden season of Hoang Su Phi! The breathtaking rice fields stretch from the peaks to the valley below, creating a striking natural landscape. We’ll pedal along a major road, climbing a steep 14 km hill to reach the Nam Khoa Heaven Gate, where we’ll be surrounded by lush rainforests and narrow terraced rice paddies that hug the steep slopes.
After a quick rest, we’ll continue our adventure on a 10 km dirt track, cycling through the Nam Khoa Valley to the junction of the Nam Khoa River. Along the way, we’ll pass by small ethnic villages like Zao and Nung, all surrounded by tea plantations and expansive rice terraces. The stunning views here are truly a photographer’s dream! From the junction, we’ll follow a narrow single-track dirt trail for 8 km, winding up and down the steep hillsides until we reach Ban Luoc, where we’ll pause to take in the surroundings.
Summary:
Activities: Cycling from hotel to Hotel
Accommodation: Ho Thau Eco Village/ Tay Con Linh Hotel
Meals:B/L/D
Cycling distance:  67 km/

Day 07: Ho Thau – Tien Nguyen – Quang Nguyen  Cycling Adventure

Hoang Su Phi is one of Vietnam’s most untouched regions, where communities have remained isolated from mainstream society until recently. This magical place sits at an elevation of 800 meters above sea level, offering high mountains, deep valleys, streams, and lush forestland, creating an area of outstanding natural beauty and unspoiled traditional life.
Today’s cycling journey takes us through the golden season of Hoang Su Phi, where we cycle through the breathtaking core of the terraced rice fields. These fields stretch from the mountain tops down to the valley, offering stunning views along the way. Our ride continues on a mix of terrain through charming ethnic villages and scenic rice terraces, leading us to Tan Phong Commune.
This afternoon, get ready for a thrilling descent, as we cycle past picturesque villages and lush rice and maize terraces cultivated by the Red Dao and Tay tribes. The air is filled with the sweet aroma of cardamom and star anise, making this ride an unforgettable experience. After a quick stop for a refreshing drink and coffee in Nam Giang Commune, we’ll continue our journey along undulating roads to Nghia Do Commune.
Summary:
Activities: Cycling from hotel to Hotel
Accommodation: Ho Thau Eco Village/ Tay Con Linh Hotel
Meals:B/L/D
Cycling distance:  67 km/

Important Notes for Your 7-Day Sapa to Ho Thau Mountain Bike Tour | Northern Vietnam Cycling Adventure

Travel Insurance: We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance, including coverage for emergency medical evacuation, before embarking on your cycling tour in Vietnam. It's always better to be prepared for any unexpected situations during your journey.
Tour Cost Validity: The tour cost is valid for 45 days from the date of the offer. After this period, prices and conditions may be adjusted. Be sure to confirm your booking within this time frame to secure the quoted rate.
Air Ticket Costs: Please note that the cost of air tickets is subject to change without prior notice by the airlines. We recommend booking your flights as soon as possible to lock in the best rates.
Peak Time Reservations: Reservations during peak times (such as Christmas, New Year, Vietnamese Lunar New Year, and National Holidays) may incur supplementary charges. Plan your trip accordingly if traveling during these periods.
Hotel Room Availability: Hotel rooms are typically available from 2:00 PM on the arrival day until 10:00 AM on the departure date. A supplement fee may apply for early check-in or late check-out requests.
Booking Process: Please note that the services and tours mentioned are proposed for informational purposes only. We will not make any reservations until we receive your confirmation. If any services are unavailable at the time of booking, we will suggest alternative options or similar services to ensure minimal changes to your tour program.
Accommodation: Hotels are subject to availability and may change accordingly. In the event of changes, we will select equivalent accommodations that maintain the comfort and quality of your stay.
Special Meal Requests: If you have any dietary restrictions or preferences (e.g., vegetarian, vegan, food allergies), please let us know in advance. We’ll inform the restaurants, tour guides, and partners to ensure your meals are suited to your needs. Culinary Experience: If you're a food lover, Snail Adventure Tours can be your ultimate culinary guide! We’ll introduce you to the best of Vietnamese cuisine, allowing you to savor local delicacies and world-famous dishes that will enhance your cycling experience.

Tour Inclusions:

English-speaking cycling guide (other languages available upon request)
Accommodation based on double/twin occupancy in hand-picked hotels and lodges
Meals as outlined in the itinerary, including 06 breakfasts, 07 lunches, and 06 dinners
Air-conditioned transport for transfers and logistical support
Van or bus support during cycling stages
Truck support for groups of 6 or more participants
High-quality trek mountain bikes (4300 model with disc brakes) and helmets
Sightseeing excursions as per the detailed itinerary
Bike maintenance tools, including bike pumps, spare tubes, and spare bikes
First aid kit for emergencies
Snacks and fruits during cycling days for extra energy
E-bikes available upon request (with a surcharge)
Cold water box and fresh towels for your comfort
Mineral water provided throughout the tour for hydration

Tour Exclusions:

Please note that the following services and expenses are not included in the tour cost:
International airfare to and from Vietnam
Travel insurance, including emergency evacuation
Personal expenses, such as souvenirs and items of a personal nature
Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks during meals
Additional mineral water beyond what is supplied during cycling days
Optional excursions or activities not listed in the itinerary
Emergency transport or services in case of unexpected situations
Personal expenses like telephone or laundry bills
Visa fees for entering Vietnam
Departure tax (if applicable)
Tips for the tour guide and team

Creating Unique Touring Experiences:

At Snail Adventure Tours, we believe every cycling tour in Vietnam (or any of our tours in Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar) should be personalized to match the unique interests and preferences of each traveler. While the 07- day Sapa – Ho Thau Mountain Bike Tour itineraries provided on our website are designed by our expert in-country management teams, we understand that true adventure is best when it is tailored to your needs. Let us work with you to custom design your Vietnam tour or craft a completely unique experience based on your interests, travel goals, and preferred pace. Our dedicated consultants are eager to help create a once-in-a-lifetime journey just for you.