Discover the best motorbike routes in Vietnam
Discover the best motorbike routes in Vietnam for an unforgettable adventure. Explore the scenic beauty, cultural highlights, and thrilling roads that make Vietnam a top destination for motorbike enthusiasts.
Ha Giang Loop Mountain Road
I. Introduction to the Best Motorbike Routes in Vietnam
Vietnam, with its breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and vibrant history, is a haven for motorbike enthusiasts. The best motorbike routes in Vietnam offer thrilling rides through winding mountain passes, serene coastal roads, and vibrant countryside, each providing a unique experience.
Experience the feeling of free adventure on two wheels
Whether you are an experienced rider or a newcomer looking for motorbike adventure, these routes are sure to captivate and challenge you.
II. Southern Vietnam’s Scenic Routes
In Southern Vietnam, the best motorbike routes showcase a blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. In the South of Vietnam, the most beautiful motorbike routes combine natural beauty with cultural richness.
Plan your trip from Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), here are some of the most beautiful and popular routes if you start from Saigon.
1. Ho Chi Minh City to Mekong Delta
Discover the bustling metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City before embarking on a peaceful journey through the Mekong Delta, known for its floating markets, lush rice paddies, and friendly locals.
From Saigon to Mekong Delta Route heavy traffic
The distance from Ho Chi Minh City to Mekong Delta is 108 miles along CT01 route according to Google Maps. It will take 4 hours 5 minutes by motorbike.
The Mekong Delta’s lush landscapes and winding rivers also provide an unforgettable experience, with opportunities to explore the region’s vibrant markets and traditional villages.
2. Ho Chi Minh to Dalat via Central Highland of Vietnam
Explore the famous historical place during the Vietnam War – Cu Chi tunnel
You need at least 3-day motorbike adventure through Vietnam’s diverse landscapes. Journey through the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, explore the Cambodian border, and discover the serene beauty of the Central Highlands of Vietnam, including Buon Me Thuot and Lak Lake.
This route offers a unique opportunity to experience authentic Vietnamese life in rural areas.
You will see many Elephants here, Lak Lake is home to many wild Elephants
And from Lak Lake, go another 170 km to Dalat, a city with French architecture at an altitude of 1500m above sea level. This is also one of the best motorbike routes in Vietnam.
View route map and related information via Ho Chi Minh to Dalat via Central Highland of Vietnam.
3. The iconic Ho Chi Minh Trail
Our motorbike convoy on Ho Chi Minh trail
Stretching from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi, is a historic route that spans over 1,800 kilometers. This challenging journey rewards riders with stunning landscapes and a deep connection to Vietnam’s past.
You can have all the information from route map to relevant information of the trip from Saigon to Hanoi by motorbike.
You have two options for this route: via the Ho Chi Minh Trail or along the coastal route (National Highway 1A). If you have a good and reliable motorbike, the advice is to choose the historic Ho Chi Minh Trail. Some places are not inhabited and it is advisable to fill up the tank.
4. Ho Chi Minh to the coastal: Long Hai, Nha Trang, Mui Ne
For those looking for coastal beauty, the road to Long Hai, Mui Ne, Nha Trang offers picturesque views of red sand dunes, pristine beaches, and fishing villages, making it one of the best motorbike routes in Vietnam.
Fishing village in Mui Ne
For visitors from Australia, do not miss the Long Tan Cross Memorial in Vung Tau before coming to Long Hai. Also if you have extra time consider a trip to Vinh Hy Bay. About 150 km from Mui Ne.
III. Central Vietnam: Mountains and History
While the North and South of Vietnam offer a wider range of iconic motorbike routes, the Central Region Vietnam still boasts unique and stunning experiences. Here are two highly recommended options:
1. Hai Van Pass and Hue Loop Motorbike Adventure
Hai Van Pass connects Danang and Hue provinces
- Highlights: Conquer the legendary Hai Van Pass, explore the ancient city of Hue, and discover the serene beauty of Lang Co Beach.
- Distance: Approximately 300 km (186 miles)
- Duration: 2-3 days
Vietnam Easy Riders organizes daily motorbike tour from Hoi An to Hue Easy Rider Tour and vice versa. If you are riding your own motorbike, you can refer to the route map and related information.
Take beautiful photos at the top of Hai Van Pass
2. Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park
Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park
- Highlights: Explore the world-famous caves, embark on jungle treks, and relax in the peaceful atmosphere of Phong Nha.
- Distance: Approximately 200 km (124 miles) from Hue
- Duration: 2-3 days
These routes offer a diverse range of landscapes, cultural experiences, and opportunities for adventure in Central Vietnam.
IV. Northern Vietnam’s Adventure Trails
The Northern Vietnam mountains are a stunning tapestry of lush greenery and rugged peaks
The northern regions of Vietnam boast some of the most adventurous motorbike routes in the country. The routes pass through breathtaking mountain scenery.
1. Ha Giang Loop
Beautiful mountain pass in the north Vietnam motorbike tour
The Ha Giang Loop is a 300-kilometer motorbike route in northern Vietnam’s Ha Giang province, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, including terraced rice fields, rocky cliffs, and traditional villages.
Along the way, you’ll encounter the Dong Van Karst Plateau, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Known as one of Vietnam’s most spectacular rides, it typically takes 3 to 4 days to complete.
This challenging route features sharp hairpin turns and stunning viewpoints. Ideal for experienced riders seeking adventure and authentic cultural experiences with local hill tribes like the H’Mong people.
H’mong child at Chin Khoang pass
This is the best motorbike routes in Vietnam, which we have compiled based on customer feedback. If you love the mountain scenery of Switzerland, this is the place for you.
Check out our Easy Rider Ha Giang Loop Tour to learn more about the route (including a map) and information related to this trip.
Easy Rider North Vietnam Motorbike Tour
2. Sapa to Mu Cang Chai
Terraced fields in Mu Cang Chai
The motorbike route from Sapa to Mu Cang Chai is a scenic journey through northern Vietnam, offering breathtaking views of terraced Rice fields, lush valleys, and ethnic minority villages.
The route spans approximately 150 kilometers and takes about 4 to 5 hours to complete, depending on stops. As you ride, you’ll traverse winding mountain roads, cross picturesque rivers, and pass through remote areas with stunning landscapes.
3. Mai Chau to Pu Luong Nature Reserve
Our self-riding motorbike tours stopped at the top of a high mountain in Pu Luong
Another incredible ride is from Mai Chau to Pu Luong Nature Reserve. This lesser-known route allows you to experience the serene beauty of Vietnam’s countryside, passing through traditional stilt houses, lush forests, and peaceful valleys.
The total duration above requires at least 10 days to complete. Ideally 14 days is best.
V. Remember
- Safety First: Always wear appropriate safety gear and ride defensively.
- Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of local customs and traditions.
- Plan Ahead: Research routes, accommodations, and weather conditions before your trip.
- Legality: You need to convert your international driving license before coming to Vietnam.
With careful planning and a spirit of adventure, your motorbike tour through Vietnam will be an unforgettable experience.
VI. Conclusion
Guests and tour guides take photos to commemorate the trip
Exploring Vietnam by motorbike is an unparalleled way to experience the country’s natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant cultures.
The best motorbike routes in Vietnam, from the historic Ho Chi Minh Trail to the breathtaking Ha Giang Loop, offer a wide range of adventures for riders of all levels.
Whether you seek challenging mountain passes, serene coastal roads, or immersive cultural experiences, Vietnam’s motorbike routes promise a journey filled with unforgettable memories.
