On road

Motorcycle Tours

Riding through passes and rice terraces

HardDry from 1 day to 3 weeks September–November and March–May 4 places

What it is and why

Motor travels in Vietnam divide into two types: comfortable trips along sea on automatic scooters and serious mountain expeditions on mechanical bikes on North. Vietnam famous by its incredible serpentines, where behind each turn opens view either on sheer cliffs, or on endless valleys with rice layers.

For beginners ideally suit ring routes in Da Lat or coastal roads around Mui Ne. Experienced bikers direct road to "Ha Giang loop" or Khao Pa pass — this real tests on endurance, requiring preparation, skills of control on ascents and basic understanding of mechanics of motorcycle.

Important to remember: in Vietnam officially required to have international rights of category A and corresponding Thai or Vietnamese license, otherwise insurance can refuse in payment at incident. Most pros choose rental of reliable enduro-bike (Honda CRF150 or XR150) and plan daily crossings not more 150–200 km for comfortable pace.

Where to do it in Vietnam

Points on the map are real places where this activity can be done. Numbers in the list match the markers.

Ha Giang loop
Ha Giang
King of all routes. 3-4 days, breathtaking mountains and borders with China.
Hai Van pass
Da Nang
Legendary road between Da Nang and Hue with sea panoramas.
Mountain Da Lat
Lam Dong
Ideal for training: cool air, pine forests, easy serpentines.
Ma Pi Leng pass
Ha Giang
One of most impressive sections of loop over canyon of Nho Que river.

Tips

Always check brakes, tires and light before leaving rental: in mountains this is safety questions.
Download offline maps maps.me with beforehand marked gas stations — in mountains connection disappears.
Invest in good raincoat-cape: on passes weather changes instantly even in sunny day.
Come to gas stations more often: in rural areas gas stations can be closed after 7 evening.
Use Google Translate to explain in roadside workshops (vá xe — wheel repair).

Caution

Serpentines of North mortally dangerous in fog and during rain — better wait in hostel.
Avoid driving bike in large cities (Hanoi, Saigon) without experience: chaos on roads can be shocking.
Never leave passport as pledge in rental — use copy or monetary deposit.