Cycling North East 5 Days

Tour Detail


Destinations: Hanoi – Ba Be – Cao Bang – Ban Gioc Waterfall – Lang Son – Hanoi.

Duration: 5 Days

Overview: This 5-day tour takes you from Hanoi to Ba Be Lake National Park, where you’ll explore by bike and canoe, experiencing local ethnic villages and stunning lake scenery. You’ll then cycle through rugged terrain to Cao Bang, visit the majestic Ban Gioc Waterfall, and finally traverse mountainous roads back to Hanoi. The journey combines scenic bike rides, local culture, and natural beauty for an adventurous exploration of northern Vietnam.

Itinerary


In the morning, you’ll drive the 220km to Ba Be Lake National Park in a comfortable vehicle. It’s a long trip, but there will be breaks en-route, and the latter part of the journey takes you through striking mountain scenery.

You’ll have lunch at Bac Can and unload the bikes for a cycle off highway to a quiet road with great views of small villages of Tay, Nung and Thai ethnic minorities along the way. Depending on our speed, you’ll arrive at Ba Be Lake in the late afternoon. After checking into a basic guest house in Ba Be National Park we have dinner and retire to sleep.

Driving Distance: 220 km

Cycling Distance: about 50 km

Today, you’ll spend the entire day exploring the beauty of Ba Be Lake by local canoe. First, you’ll cycle to the boat dock, where we’ll load our bikes onto the boat for a fun cruise. If available, we might also try a small raft to glide along the river. A visit to a cave by boat is also on today’s itinerary, after which you’ll enjoy lunch near a beautiful waterfall.

After lunch, you’ll canoe through the tranquil waters of Ba Be Lake. Activities include some swimming and a short cycle to the main road. Our van will then pick you up and transfer you back to the guesthouse. Enjoy dinner, free time to relax, and retire for the night.

Cycling Distance: 15 km

You’ll say goodbye to Pac Ngoi Village and Ba Be Lake, and by 07:30, you’ll make your way to Ha Hieu to start biking on dirt roads for about 60 km toward Nguyen Binh. You’ll face a challenging climb up the Phia Den mountain pass, reaching an elevation of about 1,200 meters. A picnic lunch will be served en route.

In the afternoon, you’ll cycle on paved roads to Nguyen Binh, where our van will pick you up for the transfer to Cao Bang. You’ll arrive in the late afternoon, check in, and take a short rest before dinner at a local restaurant. Enjoy some free time to relax. You’ll spend the night in Cao Bang.

Driving Distance: 160 km

Cycling Distance: 70 km

After breakfast, you’ll start venturing into the most remote northern regions of Cao Bang Province. Well-paved roads will take you through Trung Khanh before arriving at Ban Gioc Waterfall—the largest waterfall in Vietnam (though it may not be full of water during the dry season). You’ll enjoy a late picnic lunch, with the possibility of swimming and resting near the waterfall.

On the way back, you’ll have more cycling planned. Your route includes some of the most isolated places in Vietnam, close to the China border, as well as a meandering ride along one of the idyllic streams created by the Ban Gioc Waterfall.

You’ll take breaks en route as you wish, visit hill tribe villages, and capture many photographs on this leg of our journey. We’ll return to Cao Bang for an overnight stay.

Driving Distance: 160 km

Cycling Distance: 80 km

After breakfast at your hotel, you’ll be on your bikes by 07:30 for a beautiful morning ride, including a mountain traverse at That Khe, where you’ll conquer three mountain passes. Afterward, we’ll transfer to Lang Son for lunch and a rest before driving back to Hanoi. You’ll arrive in Hanoi in the late afternoon.

Driving Distance: 320 km

Cycling Distance: 60 km

PRICE GUIDE & NOTES


Pricing depends on your group size and requested services, such as hotel type. Please fill out the form below, and we'll respond within 24 hours.

Meals: 9 MEALS
Transportation: Private vehicle, Boat
Accommodation: Based On Your Request

WHAT'S INCLUDED


  • Accommodation sharing double/twin room or traditional stilt house.
  • Pick-ups and transfers by private air-conditioned vehicle as specified in the itinerary above.
  • Boat cruises as specified in the programme.
  • Travel in an appropriate private air-conditioned vehicle with an experienced safe driver.
  • The services of experienced English-speaking guides as indicated in the itinerary (your other preferred languages are available upon request)
  • Entry fees for all visits as mentioned in the programme.
  • Mountain bikes.
  • Meals as specified in the itinerary (B: Breakfast; L: Lunch; D: Dinner)
  • Service charges and government taxes.

WHAT'S EXCLUDED


  • Other international flight tickets and airport tax.
  • Visas
  • Lunches and dinners, except as specified above.
  • Drinks, tippings, and personal expenses.
  • Insurance.

BEST TIME TO & & VISIT


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FAQ


How does Vietnam cater to special dietary requirements?
At Luxury Travel Agency Vietnam, we ensure that your dietary needs are met by communicating your restrictions to hotels and restaurants in advance. We also brief our guides on your specific requirements to ensure you receive the appropriate meals throughout your trip.
What vegetarian options are available in Vietnam?
Although vegetarian options can be somewhat limited, especially outside major cities, you will find some vegetarian restaurants in larger urban areas. Vegetable-based dishes are relatively easy to find, and the selection of fresh fruit is exceptional.
Are there restrictions on photography in Vietnam?
Yes, there are restrictions on photography in Vietnam, particularly near military installations, airports, and other sensitive areas. It’s important to respect these guidelines to avoid issues such as equipment confiscation or legal trouble. Always seek permission before photographing restricted sites.
Can itinerary changes be made after arrival in Vietnam?
Yes, itinerary changes can be accommodated where possible. Once the official payment has been made, any changes to the tour details should be requested via email to info@luxurytravelagencyvietnam.com or directly to the staff handling your booking. Please note that changes may incur surcharges from hotels and restaurants, depending on the specific case. Additionally, the ability to amend reservations is subject to the availability of our suppliers, including hotels, restaurants, and other service providers. Minor changes involving minimal or no additional costs are typically offered as a complimentary service.
Can I enter Vietnam later than my granted arrival date in visa approval letter?
Yes, you can enter later than the granted arrival date in visa approval letter providing that you exit by granted exit date.
Can I purchase antiques in Vietnam?
You can purchase antiques in Vietnam, but keep in mind that only items less than 100 years old are legally permitted for export. The process for exporting recent artifacts can be complex, and there is a risk of high-quality replicas being confiscated at the airport. It’s advisable to buy from reputable dealers and ensure all items have the necessary documentation.
Are internet facilities widely available in Vietnam?
Yes, internet access is widely available in cities and major towns throughout Vietnam. Most large hotels provide Wi-Fi for guests, and internet cafes are plentiful and affordable.
As an American, should I expect hostility in Vietnam due to the war?
You might be pleasantly surprised by the warm reception you'll receive in Vietnam. The focus of the community is on the present and future, and they warmly welcome visitors from all backgrounds without holding onto past grievances. In fact, American tourists consistently rank among the top visitors to Vietnam.