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Cycling North Vietnam

9 days

New Tour

Put your pedal to the metal on this 9-day cycling tour across North Vietnam. Begin in Hanoi with guided sightseeing and end with a relaxing overnight cruise on Halong Bay. For the rest of your tour, enjoy an incredible cycling experience through the lush landscapes of Mai Chau, Pu Luong and Ninh Binh, meeting local villagers and exploring off-the-beaten-track locations.

For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more.

Tour Overview

Duration

- 9 days

Starts

- Hanoi

Ends

- Hanoi

Tour Guide

- Services of English-speaking guides & a cycling guide

Meals included

- Breakfast: 8, Lunch: 7, Dinner: 4

Group Size

- Min 2 / Max 12

Hotel Rating

- 3-4 star hotels, homestay & overnight cruise

Arrival Transfer

- No

Departure Transfer

- No

Range

- Active

Minimum age

- 14 yrs, accompanied by an adult

Guiding Style

- Partially Guided

Maximum age

- 70

Country

- Vietnam

Tour Pace

- Medium

Physical Rating

- Serious

Trip Type

- Active Tours
Adults (14+)
Price Breakdown
Shown in USD
Per Person From
USD

$2,405.00

Deposit Per Person From
Final payment
USD

$400.00

$4,010.00
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Tour Highlights

Hanoi - Discover the colonial charm of Hoan Kiem Lake and the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university dating back nearly a thousand years
Hoa Binh - Ride through scenic rural paths past sugar cane fields and ethnic Muong and White Thai villages nestled in the countryside
Mai Chau - Experience ethnic minority culture and lush rice paddies while cycling through the peaceful Mai Chau Valley and surrounding villages
Loong Luong - Navigate quiet mountain roads through tea plantations and H’Mong villages, with a picnic stop at the serene Tat Nang Waterfall
Pu Luong - Cycle into the heart of Pu Luong Nature Reserve, known for its limestone ridges, terraced fields, and rich biodiversity
Ninh Binh - Visit traditional water wheels en route to Ninh Binh, a region of dramatic karst landscapes and tranquil rice paddies
Cuc Phuong - Pedal through Vietnam’s oldest national park, a tropical rainforest teeming with biodiversity and towering ancient trees
Halong Bay - Cruise past soaring limestone islands and emerald waters in this UNESCO-listed seascape, with seafood dining and sunset views from the deck

Included

8 breakfasts, 7 lunches & 4 dinners
6 nights 3-4 star hotels, 1 homestay in Pu Luong & 1 overnight cruise at Halong Bay
Services of local English-speaking guides & cycling guide for included cycling (& mechanic for groups of 5+)
All relevant land transportation in a private, air-conditioned vehicle
Mountain bike and helmet rental for cycling days
Entrance fees and guided sightseeing as per the itinerary
Water & snacks
Note: This tour is operated in conjunction with our trusted partner and you will join travellers from different operators, not solely On The Go Tours

Not Included

International flights and visa
Tipping - An entirely personal gesture
Airport transfers

Itinerary

Day 1 - Exploring Hanoi

Upon arrival at Hanoi airport, make your own way to the hotel. Rooms will be available from 14:00. We recommend booking a flight that arrives before 15:00 so you can enjoy the afternoon's included activities.

The guide will meet the group at the hotel around 16:00. This evening, we’ll explore the charm of Vietnam’s capital on foot, taking in the colonial-era architecture and vibrant atmosphere around Hoan Kiem Lake – the symbolic heart of Hanoi. According to legend, Emperor Le Thai To was gifted a magical sword by the heavens to drive out Chinese invaders. After his victory, a giant tortoise emerged from the lake to reclaim the sword and return it to its divine owners, giving the lake its name: “Lake of the Returned Sword”.

We’ll then gather for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant, where our guide will provide an overview of the cycling journey ahead.

Overnight:Hanoi
Meals:Dinner
Day 2 - Exploring Hanoi Continued & Bike Fitting

Today, you’ll discover some of Hanoi’s key landmarks, starting with the Temple of Literature – Vietnam’s first university, founded nearly a thousand years ago and dedicated to Confucius. You'll then explore the bustling Old Quarter, where a network of thirty-six streets still bears the names of the traditional crafts and trades once practiced there.

In the afternoon, you'll be fitted for your bike in preparation for tomorrow's ride. The guide will offer practical tips for cycling on Vietnam’s trails and roads, along with a detailed briefing on the journey ahead.

Overnight:Hanoi
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch
Day 3 - Hoa Binh Cycling & Mai Chau

Hanoi - Hoa Binh - Mai Chau. Meet our guide in the hotel lobby this morning and depart Hanoi by road, transferring via highway to the cycling starting point in Hoa Binh.

From here, the ride begins along quiet village paths lined with plantations of sugar cane, oranges and corn. We'll cycle through rural areas home to the Muong and White Thai ethnic communities in the My Hoa and Phu Vinh communes.

We’ll climb up to the main road for a well-earned lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, continue cycling towards Nam Cuong and the Ba Khan area, where the route winds through dramatic limestone mountains. Weather permitting, we’ll make a short detour to a scenic waterfall, located 15 kilometres off the main road – a perfect spot for a refreshing swim. From the waterfall, we transfer to Mai Chau, a peaceful green valley surrounded by rolling hills and rice paddies.

Distance and duration of cycling: 50 to 60 kilometres / 5 to 6 hours
Difference in elevation: +420 metres / -210 metres
Terrain: Paved roads and village roads

Overnight:Mai Chau
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4 - Rural Cycling

Today, we transfer from Mai Chau to the Loong Luong intersection, where we leave the main road behind and begin riding along a quiet back road that winds through dramatic mountain scenery.

The route begins amid lush green tea plantations before continuing through villages inhabited by the Black Dao and Flower H’Mong ethnic groups. We'll then descend into Chieng Yen village, where you may catch a glimpse of local schoolchildren returning home on their single-gear bicycles – a tranquil snapshot of rural life.

We'll take a break at Tat Nang Waterfall, a peaceful spot for a picnic lunch. Afterwards, the ride continues along secluded paths, with panoramic views of rice terraces framed by forested hills. The day ends with a climb back to the main road, followed by a transfer back to the hotel in Mai Chau.

Distance and duration of cycling: 60 to 70 kilometres / 5 to 6 hours
Difference in elevation: +400 metres / -1100 metres
Terrain: Mainly paved roads

Overnight:Mai Chau
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch
Day 5 - Mai Chau to Pu Luong

Mai Chau - Pu Luong Nature Reserve. This morning, we’ll cycle through the tranquil Mai Chau Valley. Along the way, you’ll see stilt houses, local schools and verdant rice fields – a living snapshot of the ethnic minority communities that call this region home.

Riding through the villages of Chieng Sai, Mai Ha, Ban Cum and Mai Hich, we’ll experience the rich cultural traditions and warm hospitality that define northern Vietnam’s highlands. We’ll stop for lunch in the village of Buoc.

After lunch, continue cycling through more villages before heading towards one of northern Vietnam’s true highlights: Pu Luong National Park. Known for its striking limestone formations and unspoilt landscapes, the park offers sweeping views and a peaceful rural atmosphere. With nearly 1,000 plant species, it’s also a haven for birdlife and biodiversity. Our route winds past rice terraces, traditional villages and stretches of primeval forest. Depending on the day’s ride, we’ll either cycle directly to our accommodation in Pu Luong or be transferred the final stretch.

Distance and duration of cycling: 60 to 80 kilometres / 6 to 8 hours
Difference in elevation: +1100 metres / -250 metres
Terrain: Mainly paved roads

Overnight:Pu Luong (Homestay on stilts)
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch
Day 6 - Pu Luong to Ninh Binh

Pu Luong Nature Reserve - Ninh Binh. This morning, set off from our accommodation in Pu Luong for a final ride through this scenic region. Cycling along concrete village roads, we’ll enjoy the fresh mountain air and sweeping views of rice terraces cascading across the landscape.

Along the way, we’ll stop to visit traditional water wheels – a clever and longstanding irrigation method still used by local communities. The ride concludes by late morning, after which we transfer to Ninh Binh, with a stop en route for lunch at a local restaurant.

Distance and duration of cycling: 40 to 50 kilometres / 4 hours
Difference in elevation: +200 metres / 900 metres
Terrain: Mainly paved road

Overnight:Ninh Binh
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7 - Cuc Phuong National Park

Ninh Binh - Cuc Phuong National Park - Ninh Binh. Our last day of cycling takes us through Ninh Binh’s striking landscapes of rice paddies and dramatic karst formations – often referred to as the “Halong Bay on Land”. Along the way, you’ll have the option to stop and visit the ancient Dinh and Le Temples, nestled in the quiet village of Hoa Lu.

Continue cycling through the scenic area of Trang An, then head towards the lush and tranquil surroundings of Cuc Phuong National Park. Riding along the single road that cuts through the park, we’ll experience the sights and sounds of a tropical rainforest up close. The cycling concludes within the park, followed by a transfer back to the hotel.

Distance and duration of cycling: 60 to 70 kilometres / 6 hours
Difference in elevation: +218 meters / -225 metres
Terrain: Mainly flat roads, easy to ride

Overnight:Ninh Binh
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch
Day 8 - Halong Bay

Ninh Binh - Halong Bay. This morning, we set off for the iconic Halong Bay, arriving around midday to board our cruise. Famed for its towering limestone islands and emerald waters, Halong Bay is one of Vietnam’s most breathtaking natural wonders – recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994.

As we cruise through the bay, we’ll pass countless limestone islets, many covered in lush vegetation and untouched by development. With around 1,900 islands and rocky peaks rising from the sea, the scenery is truly spectacular.

A freshly prepared seafood lunch and dinner will be served on board, showcasing the region’s coastal flavours. Be sure to head to the top deck at sunset for fantastic photo opportunities. In the evening, you’ll also have the chance to try your hand at fishing from the boat.

Overnight:Halong Bay (Overnight Cruise)
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9 - Hanoi

Halong Bay - Hanoi. Wake early to witness the sunrise over Halong Bay – a peaceful and unforgettable moment as the morning light reflects off the emerald waters. After breakfast, enjoy a final cruise through the bay’s remarkable limestone landscape.

We then disembark and return to Hanoi by road, travelling through the rice fields and rural scenes of the Red River Delta. Arrival in Hanoi is expected by mid-afternoon, followed by a transfer to Noi Bai Airport for your onward flight.

Please Note: Please ensure your departing flight from Hanoi is scheduled after 18:00.

Meals:Breakfast

Extras and add-ons

If you'd like to add extras or add-ons to your booking, you can do this easily during checkout. Just review the available options and select any additional services or upgrades you'd like before completing your purchase.

Pre and Post Tour Accommodation

Extend your tour with us by booking pre and post-accommodation, available at a per-person, per-night rate.

Pre Tour

Pre Tour Accommodation - Hanoi

Double

$45per passenger

Twin

$45per passenger

Single

$75per passenger
Post Tour

Post Tour Accommodation - Hanoi

Double

$45per passenger

Twin

$45per passenger

Single

$75per passenger

Additional Excursions

Enhance your tour with these optional extras, helping you to get the most from your adventure.

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Supplement for E-bike

Swap out your mountain bike for an E-bike for all the included cycling on your tour - perfect if you prefer to save your energy for exploring your destination!

Add-on

$325per passenger
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Private Transfer Hanoi Airport

With this add-on, enjoy a private transfer to/from the airport in Hanoi at the start or end of your tour (driver only, no guide, not available for early flight before 7:00 or later than 20:00). Cost is per passenger.

Add-on

$15per passenger

Hotels

The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.

If you are interested in booking pre or post-tour accommodation, here are some of the hotels we typically use.

Chalcedony Hotel
Hanoi

In the heart of the Old Quarter in Hanoi, Chalcedony Hotel offers classic Vietnamese accommodation. Guest rooms are designed in a contemporary style with luxurious beech wood, soft leather upholstery and excellent en suites. Wi-fi is available in the lobby and there is a fitness centre for those who like to keep fit! Why not heasd to the in house Rooftop Restaurant for a great selection of Vietnamese and Western dishes to please any palate!

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Sol Bungalows
Mai Chau

Surrounded by emerald mountains and bamboo gardens, Sol Bungalows is set in the very heart of the Mai Chau valley. Its guestrooms are elegantly decorated and equipped with modern amenities including complimentary WiFi access. This secluded resort is the perfect spot to relax and soak up the dramatic scenery, with fantastic views over the surrounding lush rice paddies. An onsite restaurant offers delicious regional fare and guests can enjoy a host of other activities including a weaving class, traditional dance class, massage treatments, mountain biking and much more.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
3 Star Hotel
Pu Luong Retreat
Pu Luong Nature Reserve

Nestled in the heart of Pu Luong Nature Reserve, Pu Luong Retreat offers a tranquil escape surrounded by terraced rice fields and lush mountains. Ideal for nature-loving groups, it’s just a short drive from local villages and scenic trekking trails. The retreat features a refreshing infinity pool with panoramic views, an open-air restaurant serving local cuisine, and peaceful communal areas. Rooms are simply furnished in traditional stilt-house style, offering comfort and stunning natural vistas. A perfect base for exploring waterfalls, bamboo forests, and authentic Vietnamese rural life.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
3 Star Hotel
Hidden Charm Hotel
Ninh Binh

Surrounded by idyllic rice fields and towering limestone karsts, Hidden Charm Hotel does indeed ooze hidden charm, located in an area nicknamed "Halong Bay on land". Housed in an elegant white building, rooms at the hotel include king-sized (or twin) beds, large windows, TV, free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, minibar and ensuite bathrooms. There are two restaurants, a snack bar and a garden bar nestled in the lush hotel gardens. There is also an outdoor pool and comprehensive spa offering an array of treatments, sauna, a jacuzzi and more. The area is best explored on foot or by bicycle, and bikes can be hired from the hotel for guests wanting to head out and explore.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Swan Cruises
Halong Bay

Swan Cruises offers a memorable stay aboard a traditional wooden junk boat, exploring the stunning limestone karsts of Halong Bay. Perfectly suited for group tours, this floating hotel provides comfortable, air-conditioned cabins with en-suite bathrooms. Guests can enjoy Vietnamese cuisine in the onboard dining room and relax on the sun deck with panoramic views. Daily excursions include kayaking, cave visits and beach stops, all guided and well-organised. Docking from Hon Gai Pier, it’s a serene and scenic way to experience one of Vietnam’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 star cruise boat

Prices & Dates

All departure dates are guaranteed to operate when there are 2 persons booked on the tour. 'Double/Twin' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to solo travellers and anyone wanting the privacy of their own room. Room sharing is not available on this tour. This tour can be operated privately, please contact us for a quote.

2026
Double/Twin
Single
24 Jan - 1 Feb
USD$2,405
USD$2,845
7 Feb - 15 Feb
USD$2,405
USD$2,845
7 Mar - 15 Mar
USD$2,405
USD$2,845
21 Mar - 29 Mar
USD$2,405
USD$2,845
4 Apr - 12 Apr
USD$2,405
USD$2,845
18 Apr - 26 Apr
USD$2,405
USD$2,845
9 May - 17 May
USD$2,405
USD$2,845
1 Aug - 9 Aug
USD$2,405
USD$2,845

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