15 Day Guided Motorcycle Tour - Saigon to Hanoi on Ho Chi Minh Trail in Vietnam

Overview

Vietnam Two Wheels believes that the best way to experience Vietnam is to do it like a local. That’s why they offer unique opportunities to interact with locals and visit off-the-beaten-path locations that most tourists never see. With Vietnam Two Wheels, you’ll get an authentic experience that you’ll never forget.

Highlights

• Starts in Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) and ends in Ha Noi
• Navigate through winding mountain roads with no tourists
• Discover the legendary Ho Chi Minh Trail
• Visit Vietnam Demilitarized Zone and Khe Sanh
• Explore the unforgettable Cuc Phuong National Park
• Visit Fishing Village and Ethnic Minority villages
• Visit the most Majestic Waterfalls in the Central Highlands
• 14 nights accommodation

Itinerary

1. Day 1: Saigon - Long Hai Beach (140 km / 87 miles - 6 hours riding)

   Bid farewell to Saigon’s chaos as we embark on a picturesque journey through the countryside. Crossing the Saigon River by ferry, we’ll navigate scenic roads hemmed by rubber plantations. Pause to witness the age-old process of latex extraction from rubber trees. Our path leads to Minh Dam Army Base, offering insight into the intense pre-1975 conflict between American and Vietnamese forces. Don’t miss the exquisite Thuong Chieu Monastery Pagoda, a testament to intricate craftsmanship. Unwind at therapeutic Binh Chau hot springs before delving into Buddhist wonders at historic Dinh Mountain. As

2. Day 2: Long Hai Beach - Mui Ne (150 km / 95 miles - 5 hours riding)

   Ride the Coastal Thrills. Embark on an exhilarating coastal journey, with a mesmerizing pause at Ke Ga Lighthouse – the oldest of its kind in Southeast Asia. Capture the essence of this breathtaking panorama. En route to Mui Ne, a captivating stop awaits at Van Thuy Tu Temple, where you’ll uncover the unique culture of local fishermen who venerate a colossal whale skeleton. Explore the ancient Champa Towers, a window into the traditions of the Cham hill tribe. After a sun-soaked day of riding, rejuvenate with a refreshing ocean dip at Mui Ne Beach. Revel in a delightful evening in the embrace

3. Day 3: Mui Ne - Dalat (170 km/ 106 miles - 6 hours riding)

   You'll depart from Mui Ne early in the morning to explore the area’s highlights, including the Fishing Village, Fairy Springs, Red Canyon, and White Sand Dunes. After that, we’ll hop back on our motorbikes and ride through the dragon fruit farms. If you’re interested, you can even purchase some of the fresh fruits to taste. Next, we’ll continue our journey to the breathtaking curvy mountain roads of the Central Highlands, where we’ll make a stop at the K’ho ethnic minority village to experience their unique culture, wild lifestyle, and natural hospitality. You'll embark on an exciting journey

4. Day 4: Dalat - Lak Lake (170 km / 106 miles - 6 hours riding)

   Set forth from Dalat, fondly called ‘Le Petite Paris,’ and venture into the spellbinding countryside en route to the Central Highlands. Traverse the picturesque terrain and pause at an enchanting mountain eatery, indulging in authentic Vietnamese flavors. Delve into the history of the Agent Orange zone and trek through luxuriant jungles, soaking in the region’s breathtaking natural allure. Visit a chopstick atelier to glimpse the intricate local bamboo craftsmanship and cruise through expansive rice fields, witnessing the rice farming of the M’nong ethnic minority. Upon Lak Lake’s welcoming em

5. Day 5: Lake Lake - Buon Me Thuot (130 km/ 81 miles - 4 hours riding)

   Indulging in a delectable breakfast, you embarked on your trusty motorbike, gearing up for an exhilarating coastal adventure. Delve into the vivacious tapestry of M’nong culture as we bid adieu to the untamed allure of Lak Lake, making our way towards the urban embrace of Buon Me Thuot. Your dedicated guide will unveil the intricacies of M’nong life, history, and sustenance in their realm. Capture the tranquil exquisiteness of the second natural lake with a canoe voyage (subject to prevailing wind conditions). Unveil the artistry behind crafting rice paper and rice vermicelli, or venture to th

6. Day 6: Buon Me Thuot - Kon Tum (190 km / 118 miles - 8 hours riding)

   Today’s journey takes us on a long drive along the historic Ho Chi Minh Trail, where we’ll pass through mountain villages and witness the daily lives of ethnic minorities. This odyssey leads us through mountain enclaves, affording glimpses into the quotidians of various ethnic communities. Amid the sojourn, you bear witness to the captivating ritual of rubber extraction from trees. Our path meanders through fields adorned with rice paddies, cashew groves, and black pepper vines, each a testament to Vietnam’s agricultural essence. The itinerary unfurls to unveil a tapestry of experiences. A vis

7. Day 7: Kon Tum - Kham Duc (160 km / 99 miles - 6 hours riding)

   Let the awe-inspiring landscapes envelop your senses as you glide along this storied pathway. Pause and become one with the intricate tapestry of cultures that flourish within the embrace of the Se Dang, Gie Trieng, and Co Tu ethnic communities, nestled in the resplendent expanse of the Eastern Truong Son Mountain Ranges. Embark on a voyage of historical resonance, tracing the echoes of Dak To – Tan Canh Battle Fields, Phoenix Airport, and Charlie Hill, each site bearing testament to the indomitable spirit that endured the crucible of the Vietnam War. The final leg of the day’s odyssey unfolds

8. Day 8: Kham Duc - Hoi An (140 km / 90 miles - 5 hours riding)

   Gear up for the exhilarating Day 8 of your Saigon to Hanoi motorcycling odyssey along the legendary Ho Chi Minh Trail. Begin your day by capturing the first rays of dawn at the lively local market in Kham Duc, a picturesque mountain village, where you’ll be immersed in the lively rhythm of local trade and commerce. Saddle up on your trusty motorbike once more, embarking on a spellbinding journey along the iconic Ho Chi Minh Trail. Traverse the Thu Bon River aboard a ferry and arrive at the enchanting My Son Sanctuary, an embodiment of timeless Cham religious heritage and architectural elegance

9. Day 9: Hoi An - Hue (175 km / 109 miles - 6 hours riding)

   Embark on an enchanting journey as we lead you along picturesque countryside roads to Tra Que Village and the Marble Mountains. Immerse yourself in the daily lives of locals living in remote areas and experience their warm hospitality. Get ready to hop on the back of a motorbike and set off on a thrilling adventure toward the Hai Van Pass. This exhilarating ride along the Hai Van Pass will surround you with breathtaking vistas of rolling hills, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Renowned as one of the world’s most scenic drives, this winding mountain road is a must-see attraction for

10. Day 10: Hue - Vietnamese Demilitarized Zone and Khe Sanh (200 km / 124 miles - 8 hours riding)

    Embarking from Hue, our journey unfurls along the storied expanse of Highway 1, leading us to Quảng Trị Town. Here, a poignant chapter of history awaits as we pay homage at the Long Hung Church and Quảng Trị Old Citadel. It was within these formidable walls that a fierce 81-day battle raged in 1972, an enduring testament to the resilience of a nation torn. Our route then meanders along the coastline, a sensory feast of Cua Viet Beach’s allure merging seamlessly with the tranquility of Cua Tung Beach, a sweeping panorama of untouched serenity. Venturing deeper into the historical tapestry, we a

11. Day 11: Khe Sanh - Phong Nha (Quang Tri Province) (250 km / 155 miles - 8 hours riding)

    Commence your day by delving into the rich historical tapestry of Vietnam at the hallowed grounds of Phu Hoa Church, a site steeped in the echoes of intense wartime battles. As we continue our journey along the storied Ho Chi Minh trail, prepare to be enraptured by the breathtaking vistas of the Northern Truong Son mountain range. The next destination beckons with an allure that’s purely natural poetry – the enchanting Phong Nha Caves, proudly designated as one of Vietnam’s dual natural world heritages. Devote approximately four hours to an immersive exploration on foot and by boat, surrenderi

12. Day 12: Phong Nha - Tan Ky (Quang Binh Province), 230 km / 143 miles - 5 hours riding)

    Embarking on today’s leg of the journey, the path weaves through picturesque countryside, unfurling a tapestry of captivating scenes as we traverse from Phong Nha to Tan Ky. Tea plantations, their verdant leaves dancing in the breeze, form a soothing backdrop as we ride. Rolling expanses of rice fields stretch out like nature’s own carpet, while charming ethnic minority villages dot the landscape, offering a glimpse into lives intertwined with tradition. The route takes you through a symphony of mountains and valleys, each bend in the road revealing a new vista to admire. As you meander alongs

13. Day 13: Tan Ky - Cuc Phuong National Park (190 km / 118 miles - 8 hours riding)

    Founded in the year 1962, Cuc Phuong stands as Vietnam’s most ancient national park, a testament to the nation’s dedication to preserving its natural wonders. Within the embrace of Cuc Phuong’s boundaries, a captivating blend of cultural heritage and wildlife diversity unfolds, painting an enchanting tableau for all who venture here. The park’s landscape is a masterpiece of contrasts – where grandiose Limestone Mountains reach for the sky with an air of regal poise, while the emerald hues of rice terraces and the rustic charm of traditional Muong hill tribe stilt houses create a harmonious int

14. Day 14: Cuc Phuong - Mai Chau Valley (140 km / 87 miles - 4 hours riding)

    Welcome to Mai Chau, a captivating series of villages nestled within the embrace of a luxuriant green valley. As you journey through this idyllic landscape, you’ll find yourself enveloped by the charm of stilt houses, gracefully lining both sides of the road. The heart of Mai Chau beats with the vibrant cultures of its inhabitants, with a special nod to the White Thai ethnic group who call this place home. As the sun sets and the day transitions into night, you’ll find yourself in the embrace of traditional Thai hospitality. Your lodgings for the evening are nestled within an authentic Thai st

15. Day 15: Mai Chau - Hanoi (150 km / 93 miles - 5 hours riding)

    Start your day with a delightful breakfast shared in the warm atmosphere of a local family, savoring the taste and connection found in every bite. When the sun is high, you will begin your journey back to the bustling center of Hanoi. During your trip, you will be captivated by the ever-changing landscape of natural beauty. Each stop along the way offers the chance to capture the majestic splendor of the undulating mountains and valleys and the serene beauty of the rice fields stretching to the horizon. As the afternoon sun begins to set, you will once again find yourself in the vibrant arms o

Ride Details

Terrain

from paved road to trail

Bike

rental bike (Dirt Bike or Suzuki 150cc)

Mileage

2403 kilometers / 1493 miles

Riding gear

included: helmet

Meals

Meals as indicated in the itinerary

Accommodation

Vietnam Two Wheels understands the importance of a good night’s sleep after a day of motorbike travel. That’s why they have carefully selected comfortable and clean hotels at all overnight destinations. However, they also offer the option of a one or two-night homestay with locals to enhance your journey and allow you to experience the local culture. Vietnam Two Wheels provides customized tour and accommodation options to fit your preferences and needs, ensuring that you have the best possible experience in Vietnam.

Food

Vietnam Two Wheels is passionate about introducing you to authentic Vietnamese cuisine during the tours. They will take you to sample local specialties and visit street markets, restaurants, and roadside eateries for the most delicious dishes. Their recommendations cater to all tastes, from meat lovers to vegetarians, providing a unique and unforgettable culinary experience.