Tri-Nation Thrills: 17 Days Guided Motorcycle Tour Through Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam

Overview

Chiang Mai - Chiang Khong - Nan, Thailand; Luang Nam Tha - Phonsavan - Vang Vieng - Vientiane - Nong Khai - Phu Kao Ngom, Laos; Dien Bien Phu - Sapa - Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Con Cuong - Nam Can, Vietnam

Highlights

• Starts and ends in Chiang Mai, Thailand
• Ride to the highest peak in Thailand at Doi Inthanon & explore the stunning national park
• Visit the impressive Wat Phra Thart Pha Sorn Kaew temple atop a mountain pass
• Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sukhothai, the second capital of Thailand
• Meet the Karen tribe in their traditional Long Neck Village and learn more about them
• Discover Chiang Dao Cave, a stunning natural wonder with ancient Buddhist statues
• Relax by the peaceful Phayao Lake and take in the picturesque views
• 16 nights accommodation

Itinerary

1. Day 1: Arrival in Chiang Mai

   Experience the ultimate in relaxation and luxury with Big Bike Touring Co.’s exclusive perks! Kick off your adventure with an extra night’s stay upon arrival in Chiang Mai, allowing you to unwind after your journey. Then, wrap up your tour with a farewell dinner at the iconic Route 66 restaurant, reminiscing about your unforgettable experiences. Enjoy two complimentary nights and savor the savings while indulging in the finest motorcycle tour in town. With Big Bike Touring Co., every detail is tailored to perfection, ensuring you the most professional and memorable journey.

2. Day 2: Chiang Mai - Golden Triangle - Chiang Khong (280 kilometers / 174 miles)

   The journey commences with the first rev of engines as the sun paints the sky with hues of pink and orange. Riders, fueled by anticipation, embark on a 280-kilometer ride toward the mythical Golden Triangle. The winding roads invite them to synchronize with the rhythm of nature, setting the tone for a thrilling adventure ahead. Highlights: Golden Triangle: As riders approach this historical confluence of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos, they are greeted by a mystical ambiance. The Golden Triangle, once notorious for the opium trade, now reveals a tale of transformation and unity. Breathtaking pano

3. Day 3: Chiang Khong - Luang Nam Tha (enter Laos) (300 kilometers / 186 miles)

   Gear up for an exhilarating day 2 as you bid farewell to Chiang Khong and embark on a thrilling 300-kilometer ride to the enchanting town of Luang Nam Tha, marking your entry into Laos. This leg of the journey promises riders a blend of border-crossing excitement and the breathtaking landscapes that characterize the cross-country adventure. Leaving Chiang Khong, the roads wind through the scenic Thai countryside, gradually leading to the border crossing into Laos. As you navigate the border procedures, riders will experience the unique transition from one country to another, setting the stage

4. Day 4: Luang Nam Tha - Dien Bien Phu, a cross-border expedition (Panghok Border) (380 kilometers / 236 miles)

   Rev your engines for day 3 as you continue your cross-country adventure, departing from the serene town of Luang Nam Tha and covering an exhilarating 380 kilometers to Dien Bien Phu in Vietnam. This leg of the journey promises riders a cross-border expedition, traversing through Oudomxay and crossing into Vietnam at the Panghok Border. Leaving Luang Nam Tha, the roads wind through the diverse landscapes of Laos, unveiling mountainous terrain and sweeping valleys. The ride to Oudomxay offers riders a chance to appreciate the natural beauty of northern Laos, with each turn revealing new vistas a

5. Day 5: Dien Bien Phu - Sapa, mountain majesty and cultural charms (280 kilometers / 174 miles)

   Buckle up for a day of awe-inspiring landscapes and cultural immersion as you depart Dien Bien Phu, venturing towards the captivating town of Sapa. Today's ride promises a visual feast of mountainous terrain, ethnic villages, and the vibrant tapestry of Sapa's local life. Leaving Dien Bien Phu, riders navigate winding roads that ascend into the lush hills of northern Vietnam. The air becomes crisp as the elevation increases, offering breathtaking panoramic views of terraced rice fields and verdant valleys. The roads carve through the Hoang Lien Son mountain range, creating an exhilarating ride

6. Day 6: Sapa retreat - Relaxation and scenic delights (rest day)

   Revitalize body and soul as day 5 unfolds into a well-deserved rest day in the enchanting surroundings of Sapa. This interlude provides riders the perfect opportunity to recharge, savor the local ambiance, and immerse themselves in the breathtaking beauty that defines this mountainous haven. Sapa, with its crisp mountain air and panoramic landscapes, beckons to be explored at a leisurely pace. Whether strolling through the vibrant town center adorned with ethnic markets or savoring a cup of local coffee in a charming café, every moment is an invitation to soak in the unique charm of Sapa. For

7. Day 7: Sapa - Hanoi, descending from peaks to urban buzz (330 kilometers / 205 miles)

   As you bid farewell to the serene beauty of Sapa, day 6 beckons you to descend from the mountain peaks and immerse yourself in the vibrant buzz of Hanoi. The journey from Sapa to Hanoi unfolds as a fascinating transition from the tranquil mountains to the bustling urban heart of Vietnam. The roads wind their way down from the lofty heights of Sapa, offering riders a last glimpse of the terraced fields and misty valleys before blending into the flatlands surrounding Hanoi. The ride showcases the incredible diversity of Vietnam's landscapes, from the mountainous north to the fertile plains leadi

8. Day 8: Hanoi delights, a day of cultural exploration (rest day)

   Prepare for a day of cultural immersion and exploration as we declare day 7 a well-deserved rest day in the heart of Vietnam's vibrant capital, Hanoi. This interlude invites riders to delve into the rich history, unique traditions, and captivating sights that define this cultural hub. Hanoi, with its centuries-old charm, unfolds like a living museum. Riders can begin their day by exploring the historic Old Quarter, where narrow streets are lined with traditional shophouses, each holding stories of Hanoi's past. The bustling markets offer an array of local crafts, street food, and hidden gems w

9. Day 9: Hanoi - Ninh Binh, tranquil landscapes and ancient wonders (100 kilometers / 62 miles)

   Embark on a picturesque ride as you depart from the bustling streets of Hanoi, heading towards the serene beauty of Ninh Binh. Day 9 promises riders a journey of approximately 100 kilometers, unveiling tranquil landscapes, ancient wonders, and the timeless allure of the Vietnamese countryside. Leaving Hanoi behind, the roads guide us through the Red River Delta, a region adorned with lush green fields and meandering waterways. As the urban landscape transforms into the rural simplicity of Ninh Binh, riders are greeted by the captivating karst formations that define the area. Ninh Binh, often r

10. Day 10: Ninh Binh - Con Cuong, a journey through time and tranquil valleys (260 kilometers / 162 miles)

    Prepare for an exhilarating ride as you depart from the enchanting landscapes of Ninh Binh, embarking on a 260-kilometer journey to the serene valleys of Con Cuong. Day 9 promises riders a captivating blend of diverse terrains, historical resonance, and the tranquil beauty of the Vietnamese countryside. Leaving Ninh Binh behind, the roads wind through the picturesque countryside, revealing the subtle transitions from karst formations to lush valleys. The journey offers riders a chance to witness the daily rhythms of rural life, with farmers tending to emerald-green rice paddies and quaint vill

11. Day 11: Con Cuong - Nam Can border crossing - Phonsavan, border crossings and mystical plateaus (270 kilometers / 168 miles)

    Gear up for a day of cross-border excitement as we bid farewell to Con Cuong and embark on a 270-kilometer journey towards Phonsavan in Laos, traversing the Nam Can Border. Day 10 promises riders a thrilling ride through diverse terrains, border crossings, and the mystical plateaus that await in the Laotian highlands. Leaving Con Cuong, the roads wind through the captivating landscapes of the Annamite Range, revealing the hidden gems of central Vietnam. As you approach the Nam Can Border, anticipation builds for the border-crossing adventure that awaits, marking the transition into the enchant

12. Day 12: Phonsavan - Vang Vieng, karst landscapes and riverside serenity (267 kilometers / 166 miles)

    Embark on another day of exploration as you bid farewell to the mystical Plain of Jars and journey 267 kilometers southward to the scenic town of Vang Vieng. Day 11 promises riders an enchanting ride through the picturesque landscapes of Laos, with karst formations and riverside serenity awaiting your arrival in Vang Vieng. Leaving Phonsavan, the roads wind through the undulating hills, revealing the natural beauty that defines the Laotian countryside. The ride offers glimpses of traditional villages, where locals carry on with their daily lives amidst the breathtaking landscapes. As you appro

13. Day 13: Vang Vieng to Vientiane, riverside tranquility to capital elegance

    Embark on the penultimate leg of the Laos adventure as you journey 150 kilometers from the scenic town of Vang Vieng to the elegant capital city of Vientiane. Day 12 promises riders a leisurely ride, transitioning from the riverside tranquility of Vang Vieng to the cultural and historical charm of Vientiane. Leaving Vang Vieng, the roads trace the contours of the landscape, offering riders a final glimpse of the towering karst formations and the peaceful Nam Song River. As you approach Vientiane, the scenery evolves, paving the way for a more urban landscape adorned with historical landmarks.

14. Day 14: Border Tranquility to Knok Ngam

    Embark on the final leg of our cross-country journey as we bid farewell to the borderland tranquility of Nong Khai and ride 280 kilometers to the adventure-filled landscapes of Phu Kao Ngom. Day 14 promises riders a captivating blend of border crossings, serene landscapes, and the thrill of exploration as we approach the culmination of our motorcycle odyssey. Leaving Nong Khai, the roads guide us through the border regions, offering glimpses of the Mekong River and the neighboring country. As we navigate through the landscapes, riders will experience the unique ambiance of borderland tranquili

15. Day 15: Khok Ngam to Nan (282 kilometers / 175 miles)

    As we bid adieu to the adventure-filled landscapes of Phu Kao Ngom, Day 15 marks the homeward-bound journey, taking riders 282 kilometers to the charming town of Nan. This final leg promises a scenic ride through lush trails, allowing for reflection on the incredible moments and landscapes encountered during our cross-country odyssey. Leaving Phu Kao Ngom behind, riders will navigate through winding roads and picturesque valleys, surrounded by the natural beauty that defines northern Thailand. The journey becomes a celebration of the diverse terrain that has characterized our entire motorcycle

16. Day 16-17: Nan - Chiang Mai, twists of highway bliss (via HWY 3) (278 kilometers / 173 miles) - Tour ends

    In the grand finale of this exhilarating cross-country odyssey, day 15 invites riders to embark on the "Twists of Highway Bliss," covering 278 kilometers from the enchanting town of Nan to the vibrant city of Chiang Mai via Highway 3. As you navigate the final leg, this day encapsulates the essence of the entire tour, celebrating the camaraderie, adventure, and sheer joy of the open road. Leaving Nan, the roads unveil a tapestry of landscapes that have become familiar throughout the journey. The twists and turns of Highway 3 offer riders a final dose of the highway bliss that has characterized

Ride Details

Bike

rental bike (Honda or BMW models)

Mileage

3307 kilometers / 2055 miles

Daily rides

100 - 380 kilometers / 62 - 236 miles

Riding gear

included: helmets Bluetooth, gloves, jackets, pants, boots

Meals

All meals included, except lunch and dinner on rest days

Accommodation

You will stay in 3-4 star hotels. Every rider has their own private room.

Food

The package includes all three meals while on tour. Lunch and dinner are not provided on rest days. Tea, coffee, and soft drinks will be served with meals. Other drinks are extra. They serve breakfast at the hotel and this normally comprises several options. Lunch is a light roadside lunch, for dinner options, we always endeavor to find a restaurant that offers both Thai and International cuisine.

Getting There

Embark on the ultimate adventure with Big Bike Touring Co. This epic journey begins at the Chiang Khong border, leading riders through the mesmerizing landscapes of Luang Nam Tha, Oudomxay, and the Tay Trang Border. Explore the historic Dien Bien Phu, ride through the stunning terrains of Sapa, and delve into the vibrant energy of Hanoi. Traverse the scenic wonders of Ninh Binh, uncover the myster