Cycling Ho Chi Minh Trails Vietnam: Ha Noi to Hoi An

Begin our exhilarating first day’s ride with a scenic transfer from Hanoi to Mai Chau. Pick up our bikes at Thung Khe Pass and follow the winding, serpentine paved roads of DT432B to Noong Luong.

From there, we ride along gentle rolling hills and beautifully undulating scenic roads, passing through charming, vibrant villages, with a delightful local lunch en route to Pho Doan. We then turn onto peaceful rural paths, crossing a stunning, lush valley toward Pu Luong Nature Reserve.

We’ll set off on a gentle cycling journey to Don Village, easing into the rhythm of rural life as we pedal through a tapestry of vibrant hamlets. Along the way, we’ll pause to visit a local family workshop where traditional Can wine is crafted, offering a glimpse into time-honored customs.

From here, we continue riding toward Lang Tom, crossing a narrow suspension bridge before tracing the tranquil riverside. We’ll stop at picturesque water wheels, then cross the Ma River and follow the QL217 for a short stretch. Soon, we leave the main road behind and glide onto a quiet paved lane that winds into breathtaking valleys, rustic countryside, and forest-clad mountains.

The route is smooth and leisurely, leading us past cornfields, terraced rice paddies, and charming stilt houses that dot the landscape. To conclude the day, we hop onto a shuttle for a short transfer to Ngoc Lac town, bringing this scenic adventure to a relaxed close.

We begin with a short transfer to the outskirts of Ngoc Lac, setting the tone for a rewarding day on two wheels. From here, we cycle toward Yen Cat township, journeying through remote villages and a tapestry of serene landscapes—peaceful rivers, glassy lakes, lush orchards, and vibrant rice paddies framed by gentle mountain hillsides. 

Along the way, we pass traditional stilt houses and ride primarily on quiet countryside roads, occasionally rejoining main routes to link together more scenic stretches. After covering approximately 75 km, we arrive in Yen Cat town, where the day concludes. A comfortable 1 hour shuttle transfer then takes us onward to Thai Hoa.

We commence with a quick transfer out of town, journeying into the authentic, tranquil countryside of Thai Hoa. Along the way, we witness local farmers harvesting rice, cycle past fragrant fruit orchards, and take in sweeping views of gentle mountains and serene, shimmering lakes. Charming roadside markets dot the quiet country lanes, offering a glimpse into daily rural life.

We pause for a flavorful lunch at a welcoming local restaurant in a small town en route. The ride continues along gently undulating, well-paved rural roads, crossing vast stretches of fertile farmland and rolling hillsides as we approach the outskirts of Do Luong. We’ll make time to visit a few peaceful pagodas before concluding the cycling day in the rustic village of Nam Dan.

A short transfer brings us to Kim Lien, where we visit the historic childhood home of Ho Chi Minh. From here, we resume our transfer to the vibrant city of Vinh.

We depart Vinh this morning, setting out toward Huong Khe District with a brief transfer into the countryside. From there, we remount our bikes and begin a gentle ride through lively rural villages, tracing the serene banks of the Lam River.

Our day continues across emerald rice paddies, pedaling along quiet canals before pausing at the historic landmarks of Dong Loc. A short 2 km ride brings us to the iconic Dong Loc Crossroads, a place rich in history and reflection.

After exploring this meaningful site, we enjoy a well-earned lunch nearby. Refreshed and ready, we set off on a scenic 25 km ride along smooth, winding roads leading us onward to Huong Khe, surrounded by peaceful countryside views.

We’ll collect our bikes from the hotel in the charming town of Huong Khue and set off toward Phong Nha for an adventurous day of riding. The morning stretch covers approximately 34 km along the historic, winding Ho Chi Minh trails—now pleasantly quiet thanks to the newer highway—offering a peaceful and scenic journey.

At times, the route follows the serene Ngan Sau River and passes alongside rustic railway lines, leading us through vibrant villages, lush fruit orchards, and tranquil riverscapes. As the legendary old trail merges with the modern road, we’ll turn onto QL15 and take on a series of rewarding mountain passes, cycling through dense tropical forests with a well-earned lunch stop along the way.

Your guide will thoughtfully determine the remaining distance and arrange a comfortable shuttle transfer to Phong Nha, including a fascinating stop at the historic Khe Cat Military Airport.

Today is a well-earned rest day, with no cycling as we give our legs a break after several adventurous rides. We’ll take a comfortable shuttle to explore the breathtaking Paradise Cave, savor a delicious local lunch, and then return to the hotel to unwind with a refreshing beer and a relaxing swim in the pool.

Today’s journey is shorter in distance but rich in historical depth, with a strong focus on the legacy of the Vietnam War. We’ll explore the evocative sites along the 17th Parallel, once the dividing line between North and South Vietnam.

At 7:30 a.m., we depart for a two-hour shuttle ride along modern highways to Vinh Linh, where we’ll hop on our bikes. From here, we cycle along tranquil backroads toward a peaceful local beach, then continue pedaling beside sweeping sandy shores to the remarkable Vinh Moc Tunnels.

After our visit, we ride along scenic coastal roads to Cua Tung Beach, where a delicious seafood lunch awaits at a seaside restaurant with refreshing ocean views. In the afternoon, we cycle to the historic Hiền Luong Bridge, visit its insightful museum, and capture memorable photos of this symbolic landmark.

To conclude the day, we enjoy a picturesque two-hour shuttle ride along winding roads to Khe Sanh, surrounded by lush landscapes and quiet countryside.

We begin our day with a visit to Ta Con Airport, also known as the Khe Sanh Combat Base, where fascinating war relics are preserved and open for visitors. From there, a support shuttle takes us to Dakrong Bridge, a symbolic friendship bridge built by Cuban engineers.

Our ride truly begins as we pedal into spectacular scenery. In the morning, we follow Highway QL14, part of the new Ho Chi Minh Highway, a gently undulating route that winds alongside the Dakrong River. The road rises and falls through breathtaking mountain landscapes, with lush tropical jungle and peaceful riverside stretches accompanying us along the way.

After about 45 km of riding, we pause for lunch in a small local town. In the afternoon, we cross the river and venture onto a quieter paved route—the Old Ho Chi Minh Trail—which runs parallel to the main highway. Though only around 15 km long, this section offers a truly memorable ride, passing stilt houses, small ethnic minority villages, and verdant hillsides.

Eventually, the trail rejoins the main highway, and we continue cycling over rolling mountain terrain, picking up speed as we approach Pe Ke Pass. From there, we descend into a picturesque valley as we enter A Luoi District, before following gently undulating roads to our hotel, where we can relax after a rewarding day on the road.

Check out and set off on a scenic ride toward A Lưới town. Turning left onto DT49, we’ll spin gently for a few warm-up kilometers before tackling the first rolling climb over the small Tà Lương Pass. From there, the route undulates gracefully through emerald rice paddies and rustic countryside villages, offering a peaceful glimpse of rural life.

We then gear up again for the charming Kim Quy Pass, where the road winds through lush jungle canopies. After a sweeping descent into a quiet town, we’ll pause for a local-style lunch.

In the afternoon, we cross the Huu Trach River and venture onto off-the-beaten-path dirt trails, weaving through dense jungle, tiny ethnic villages, and occasionally riding alongside the river. The day’s journey concludes at the serene Minh Mang Tomb. After the visit, a shuttle transfer takes us back to Hue city.

In the evening, gather with your group for a special farewell dinner in the charming town of Hoi An. Enjoy a warm and memorable night over a delicious Vietnamese meal, celebrating your journey and the experiences you’ve shared together.

After a leisurely breakfast, we set out on a walking tour of the Purple Citadel, exploring its rich heritage while gaining insight into Vietnamese culture and both its ancient and modern history.

Afterward, we transfer to a seaside village and begin a scenic ride through quiet countryside lanes, taking in some of the region’s most impressive landscapes. Along the way, we pass temples, pagodas, rice fields, and fishing villages, and observe daily life along the famed Tam Giang Lagoon. The route leads us across bridges, through small towns, over gentle hills, and past family farms.

We then turn onto a smaller path and cycle across flat terrain along the coast near Vinh Hien, before tackling a few gentle climbs toward Phuoc Tuong Pass. Lunch is enjoyed by the beautiful Lang Co Beach.

Following lunch, we take on the iconic Hai Van Pass, with a rewarding 12 km ascent followed by a 12 km descent. The remainder of the journey is completed by vehicle transfer to Hoi An. Tour ends.