Mai Chau to Hanoi Organised Motor Cycle Tours
15th September - 26th September 2027
£2995
per rider
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per pillion
£550
single room
supplement
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
Ha Long Bay – 3 Days & 2 Nights | £450 Single | 350 Twin/Double Share
Extra night(s) in Hanoi – £65 per night
*Prices are based per room
TRIP DIFFICULTY
Mai Chau to Hanoi Motorcycle tours our ADVENTURE
Northwestern Vietnam is a land of raw beauty and cultural depth — the perfect setting for a true RAMS adventure and unforgettable guided motorcycle adventure. Tucked along the borders of Laos and China, this remote region is defined by soaring mountain ranges, cascading terraced rice fields, and deep, emerald valleys carved by time.
The dramatic Hoàng Liên Son Range dominates the skyline, crowned by Fansipan, the highest peak on the Indochina Peninsula. Here, winding mountain passes and high-altitude plateaus create the ultimate playground for riders seeking a challenging and rewarding motorcycle adventure.
Northwestern Vietnam is also home to vibrant ethnic minority communities, including the Hmong, Dao, and Thai peoples. Their centuries-old traditions, colourful textiles, and bustling highland markets offer a powerful cultural dimension to the journey. As we ride through remote villages and along quiet backcountry trails, we experience a side of Vietnam that remains authentic, warm, and largely untouched by mass tourism.
The Explorer Vietnam experience captures the spirit of a true rams adventure, raw trails, real encounters, and the timeless rhythm of rural life. We take to our motorcycles and climb through steep mountain folds, tracing ancient routes that rise toward mist-covered plateaus where the air is cool, crisp, and invigorating.
With the rainy season just behind us, sections of trail can turn technical, adding an extra layer of challenge. But that’s the essence of a genuine motorcycle adventure, unpredictable terrain, shared camaraderie, and the deep satisfaction of earning every mile.
Hanoi – Urban Energy
A dynamic start to any RAMS Adventure, Hanoi is vibrant, chaotic and utterly unforgettable. The city pulses with life as scooters weave through narrow streets, street vendors prepare sizzling local dishes on every corner and centuries of history sit alongside modern city energy.
Staying in the bustling Old Quarter places you at the heart of the action. Wander through its maze of historic streets, sample incredible Vietnamese street food, explore lively night markets and soak up the authentic rhythm of everyday life.
One of the city’s most striking sights is the haunting remains of a downed B-52 bomber resting quietly in the middle of a small lake, a powerful reminder of Vietnam’s past and remarkable resilience.
Mai Chau – Valley Escape
Mai Chau lies in a peaceful valley surrounded by limestone karsts and emerald rice terraces. The ride into the valley winds though gentle mountain roads and small rural villages, offering a glimpse of traditional Vietnamese life far from the busy cities.
This tranquil landscape reveals the calmer, more scenic side of a true Vietnam motorbike tour, where quiet roads, open views and welcoming local communities make every mile feel like a journey into the heart of the countryside.
Sa Pa – Mountain Frontier
Close to the Chinese border, Sa Pa is a dramatic highland region known for its towering peaks, terraced rice fields and cool mountain air. The ride into Sa Pa reveals winding roads, sweeping valleys and spectacular viewpoints that showcase the rugged beauty of Northern Vietnam.
Beyond the main routes, remote hill tribe villages and quiet mountain tracks reveal the raw spirit of a true Vietnam motorbike tour. Here traditional communities continue their way of life and every turn in the road offers another unforgettable mountain panorama.
Accommodation For our Mai Chau to Hanoi Motorcycle tour
The Vietnam Explorer Ride combines unforgettable roads with a carefully selected range of accommodation that reflects the character and beauty of northern Vietnam.
Our first night on the trail takes us to the peaceful Mu Waterfall Homestay, nestled in the hills above Mai Chau. Here, you’ll experience genuine Vietnamese hospitality, enjoy traditional home-cooked cuisine, and fall asleep to the sounds of nature in a stunning rural setting.
From there, we head deeper into the mountains to the beautiful Pu Luong region, where we stay in a mountain resort overlooking lush rice terraces and rolling valleys. This is the perfect place to relax after a day in the saddle, perhaps with a cold drink by the pool while taking in some of the most spectacular scenery in Vietnam.
Continuing north, we arrive in the famous mountain town of Sapa. Surrounded by towering peaks and colourful hill-tribe villages, our accommodation provides a comfortable retreat with modern facilities, excellent dining, and breathtaking views across the surrounding mountains.
To complete the adventure, we board Vietnam’s famous overnight sleeper train for our return journey to Hanoi. Travelling in comfortable sleeping berths, this classic rail experience offers a unique glimpse into Vietnamese life and provides a memorable finale to an incredible motorcycle adventure.
Throughout the trip, accommodation has been chosen not only for comfort and quality but also for its location and character, ensuring that every evening is as memorable as the riding itself.
Swimming PoolOn-site pool available at selected accommodation stops.
Air ConditioningAir-conditioned rooms where available.
Fan CoolingCeiling or portable fans provided in rooms.
Private BathroomPrivate ensuite bathroom facilities.
Hot ShowersHot water showers available where possible.
Garden / Outdoor SeatingOutdoor spaces to relax and unwind.
Laundry ServiceLaundry services available locally or on site.
Mosquito NetsMosquito protection provided where needed.
Towels & Linen ProvidedFresh towels and bedding included.
Breakfast IncludedDaily breakfast provided at accommodation.
Bar / Beer AvailableDrinks available at select accommodation stops.
Tea & Coffee AvailableTea and coffee facilities available.
Complimentary Drinking WaterSafe drinking water provided where possible.
Wi-Fi AvailableInternet access available at accommodation.
All inclusive Motor bike tour Mai Chau to Hanoi Cuisine
breakfast
Typical Dishes:
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Phở – steaming noodle soup with beef or chicken, fresh herbs like coriander and Thai basil, and a light, flavorful broth.
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Bánh mì – crispy French-style baguette with fillings such as egg, pâté, cold cuts, and pickled vegetables.
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Cà phê sữa đá – strong Vietnamese coffee with sweetened condensed milk over ice.
LUNCH
Typical Dishes:
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Cơm tấm – broken rice with grilled pork, pickled vegetables, a fried egg, and fish sauce dressing.
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Gỏi cuốn – fresh spring rolls with shrimp, pork, herbs, and vermicelli noodles, served with peanut dipping sauce.
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Bún chả – grilled pork patties and slices served over rice noodles with fresh herbs and dipping sauce.
EVENING MEAL
Typical Dishes:
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Cá kho tộ – caramelized fish in clay pot with a savory-sweet sauce.
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Lẩu – Vietnamese hot pot with assorted meats, seafood, and fresh vegetables for communal dining.
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Stir-fried vegetables and rice – simple, hearty local-style stir-fry dishes with seasonal vegetables.
Itinerary For Motor Bike Tours in Mai Chau to Hanoi
Your Rams Adventure begins as we meet you at Noi Bai International Airport and transfer into the heart of the capital. We stay in the vibrant Old Quarter, where narrow streets buzz with scooters, street food vendors, and towering narrow buildings. It’s a full-sensory introduction to Vietnam — chaotic, colourful, and unforgettable.
After a relaxed breakfast, we collect the bikes and roll out into the countryside — the true start of our motorcycle adventure. Leaving the city behind, we ride through rural landscapes toward the multi-tiered Mu Waterfall. Tonight, we stay at a traditional homestay, falling asleep to the distant sound of cascading water.
We ride deeper into the mountains and into the breathtaking Pu Luong Nature Reserve. Home to the Black Thai people, this enchanting valley offers fertile jungles, terraced rice fields, and remote trails. The slow rhythm of village life here feels a world away from Hanoi — raw, authentic, and perfect for a Rams Adventure.
Today’s ride takes us over Thung Khe Pass, where smoky roadside food shacks overlook dramatic white cliffs and sweeping valleys. We descend into Mai Chau, a peaceful rural valley of rice paddies, stilt houses, limestone cliffs, and rich ethnic culture — a highlight of this motorcycle adventure.
We follow the shores of Hoa Binh Lake before climbing back into the mountains. Rice paddies give way to winding trails as the terrain becomes more dramatic and remote — classic Rams Adventure riding.
Today we conquer the legendary “Dinosaur Spine” ridge near Tà Xùa — a narrow, elevated trail cresting high above the valleys below. Not for the faint-hearted, this is pure motorcycle adventure: exposed ridgelines, big views, and unforgettable riding.
Back on the bikes, we wind through limestone karst hills and sweeping mountain roads — widely regarded as some of the most picturesque routes in Vietnam. The journey now turns north toward the towering peaks near Sa Pa.
Riding through misty mountain passes and endless rice terraces, we arrive in Sa Pa, near the Chinese border. This former hill station is famed for its cultural diversity and spectacular scenery. Tonight, we dine with views of Fansipan — the highest mountain in Indochina.
A rest day with options to summit Fansipan or relax in town. In the evening, we transfer to Lao Cai to board the overnight sleeper train back to Hanoi — a classic Rams Adventure tradition and part of the authentic Vietnam motorcycle adventure experience.
We arrive back in Hanoi early morning and transfer to the hotel. The day is free for exploring, shopping, or simply reflecting on an epic motorcycle adventure through Northern Vietnam.
Transfer to the airport for your onward flight home — completing an unforgettable Rams Adventure through some of Vietnam’s most remote and spectacular landscapes.
KIT LIST - ESSENTIALS for the Mai Chau to Hanoi Motorcycle tour
With motorcycle clothing it is important to have the protection however it is equally important to be comfortable as you could be wearing most days. Below is a suggestive list of what clothing and equipment you may need to take on a RAMS Adventures however please talk to one of the team if you need some advice.
FULL FACE MOTORCYCLE HELMET
Some of the trails can get dusty so it is advised that your helmet has either a visor or a pair of goggles. Your helmet must be of a standard that is required for road or track use.
Suggestion - Shoes, Bell or Arai Helmets
GLOVES
Thin Motocross style gloves are perfect, ideally take two pairs.
Suggestion - Knox or Alpinestars
BODY ARMOUR
Body armour needs to be cool and as flexible as possible but most of all comfortable, easy to be worn under your jacket or even as a jacket when its hot.
Suggestion - Knox or Forcefield
TROUSERS or RIDING JEANS
Textile trousers with built in armour are ideal however lightweight riding jeans or trousers are a great alternative.
Suggestion - Knox or Dainese
WATERPROOF
There is nothing worse than being wet and although we go in the best weather window you can never rule out the rain.
Suggestion - Dainese or Richa
JACKET
Hot, cold, dry, dusty and wet weather may be experienced.......even in just one day. Layered textile jackets are ideal as you can remove layers when you need and most jackets have removable armour.
Suggestion - Revit or Alpinestars
BOOTS
Soft enduro or motocross boots, ideally will be waterproof as there may be one or two rivers to cross. Short boots are ideal for adventures below a difficulty of five however a full boot is recommended for the adventures above five.
Suggestion - Forma or TCX Adventure, Sidi
HYDRATION BACKPACK
We supply bottled water at the beginning of each day to ensure you are hydrated throughout your ride
Suggestion - Camelbak or Kreiga
Recommended Extras for the Mai Chau to Hanoi Motorcycle road trip
To help make your journey more comfortable and enjoyable, we recommend bringing a few additional personal items alongside your main packing list. These optional extras can enhance your experience in varying climates and locations, ensuring you’re well prepared for everything from remote mountain stays to long travel days. While not essential, many riders find these items add convenience, comfort, and peace of mind throughout the adventure.
Sleeping BagOptional but useful for cooler nights or remote locations; bedding usually provided.
Basic First Aid Kite.g. rehydration salts, paracetamol, ibuprofen, antiseptic cream, plasters.
High Factor Sun CreamStrong sun exposure even in cold or mountainous areas.
SunglassesSuitable for cycling, mountains, or beach use.
Alcohol Hand SprayUse after washing hands and before eating.
DEET Insect RepellentProtection against insects.
SwimwearOpportunities for swimming may arise.
TowelSmall travel towel recommended (trains, homestays, basic accommodation).
Small Luggage / RucksackFor overnight trips or essentials during travel.
Clothing (General)Mix for warm and cold conditions: t-shirts, shorts, long trousers, fleece.
Warm Jacket or CoatInsulated jacket for high altitude or cold environments.
HatWarm hat for colder mountain conditions.
Trip Advisor Reviews
Exceeded all expectations, a true adventure (Oct 2024)
Exceeded all expectations. One of the best tours I’ve been on. Very professional yet friendly tour team. Everything covered from the very start to the end with some very nice unexpected surprises during the tour. Will definitely consider another tour with them in the future.
Unbelievable life experience (Sep 2024)
I have just finished the Vietnam Explorer with my son. We have had the time of our lives, the views, the locations, the experience. Dave and his team have been unbelievable from booking all the way through to the riding. Nothing troubles him — the typhoon, no problem, the land slides, no problem. I cannot recommend RAMS enough and will no doubt book through them for other adventures.
Happy Water! — Hanoi to HCM (Mar 2024)
The Hanoi–HCM trip offered everything from great accommodation and food to incredible varied terrains for motorbiking. Dave and Leah ensured everyone was taken care of and having paramedics onsite offered added reassurance. Suitable for both novice and experienced riders — it ticked all the boxes.
Vietnam March 2024
From the start Leah organised all the best flight times which put my mind at rest. From arrival, the organisation, food and accommodation was exceptional. The Vietnam trip took me to all the sights I’d wanted to see from the Vietnamese war and the guide from Dave and the team was superb. I would confidently recommend RAMS to anyone — a trip of a lifetime.
The Transport during our Mai Chau to Hanoi Motorbike Tour
Kawasaki KLX 250
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The Vibe: The CRF’s “sportier, grittier” cousin.
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Type: Dual-Sport.
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Best For: Riders who want a bit more “snap” and better stock suspension.
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Key Info: Generally feels more “dirt-focused” than the Honda. The suspension is adjustable and stiffer, meaning it handles aggressive off-roading better without bottoming out.
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Vietnam Context: A bit rarer than the Hondas. While highly reliable, you might have to wait a day for specific Kawasaki parts if you’re deep in the mountains compared to the ubiquitous Honda.
Honda CRF 250L
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The Vibe: The reliable “Swiss Army Knife” of Vietnam.
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Type: Dual-Sport.
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Best For: All-around adventure. It’s the most popular 250cc rental in the country for a reason.
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Key Info: It has a very linear power delivery, making it forgiving for intermediate riders. The suspension is famously soft (plush for potholes, but can dive under heavy braking).
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Vietnam Context: Parts are available in almost every major province. If you break a lever in a remote village, a mechanic can likely find a fix.
Honda CRF Rally
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The Vibe: The “Mini-Adventurer” with a Dakar look.
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Type: Adventure / Rally.
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Best For: Long-distance comfort and pillion passengers.
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Key Info: It’s essentially a CRF 250L with a larger fuel tank (10.1L vs 7.7L), a windscreen, and a much wider, more cushioned seat. It features frame-mounted passenger footpegs and a sturdier subframe, making it the only real choice on this list if you are riding two-up.
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Vietnam Context: Great for the long coastal stretches where wind protection matters, but it is noticeably heavier than the base L model.
Kawasaki KLX 230 (Reduced Height / ‘S’ Model)
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The Vibe: The “Confidence Builder.”
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Type: Trail / Dual-Sport.
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Best For: Shorter riders or beginners who want to be able to touch the ground.
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Key Info: It uses an air-cooled engine (simpler, less to go wrong) and has a significantly lower seat height (approx. 830mm vs the 880mm+ on the 250s).
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Vietnam Context: Perfect for the tight, technical “goat tracks” in the North where being able to “dab” your foot down can prevent a fall into a rice paddy.