Cycling the Ha Giang Loop & Vietnam’s Central Coast

We begin our ride this morning, leaving town behind and cycling along a gentle 25km stretch of flat roads through emerald rice terraces and peaceful countryside. Passing through traditional minority villages, we continue for another 25km as the road climbs into a dramatic limestone mountain range, gaining nearly 800 meters on the way to the scenic Heaven Gate 1 pass.

Along the winding mountain roads, often wrapped in mist and low clouds, we pass remote hill villages and receive warm greetings from local communities. From the summit, breathtaking views open across the Tam Son Valley, including the iconic Twin Hills and the picturesque countryside surrounding Quan Ba.

From Quan Ba, the route descends through vibrant valleys on twisting roads with spectacular scenery and endless photo opportunities. Along the way, we visit local villages, meet ethnic communities, and experience their rich mountain culture before continuing toward Yen Minh, where a late-afternoon transfer takes us into town for the evening.

We set off early today for one of the most scenic and rewarding rides of the journey, surrounded by the raw natural beauty of northern Vietnam. Leaving town in the morning, we cycle through rolling farmlands, terraced rice fields, and gentle hills before taking on the spectacular Tham Pha Pass — an iconic S-shaped mountain road in Ha Giang. Known for its nine sweeping bends, this dramatic pass is considered one of the most thrilling routes in far northern Vietnam.

The ride continues past valleys dotted with seasonal buckwheat fields and into the heart of the remarkable Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, where towering limestone peaks, ethnic villages, and breathtaking mountain scenery create an unforgettable landscape. Pedal through winding roads framed by karst formations before reaching the beautiful buckwheat fields near Dong Van.

From here, we continue cycling along Road DT128B toward Dong Van. After hotel check-in, enjoy free time to wander through the charming ancient quarter of Dong Van at your own pace before gathering for dinner.

We begin the day from the hotel, cycling through lush rice fields and gently rolling countryside before climbing the renowned Ma Pi Leng Pass, one of northern Vietnam’s most breathtaking mountain roads. Ride beneath towering limestone peaks, admire the serene beauty of the emerald-green Nho Que River, and descend winding hills into the lively town of Meo Vac.

From here, we follow the quiet back roads of DT182, pedaling through remote tribal villages, colorful local markets, and peaceful mountain hamlets. Joining DT176, the route winds through rustic countryside dotted with terraced rice fields, fertile farmlands clinging to the hillsides, and tiny thatched-roof villages. A scenic lunch stop awaits en route to Ma Due.

After lunch, prepare for the spectacular snaking road to Lung Ho, where dramatic mountain panoramas, deep valleys, and fruit orchards create an unforgettable backdrop. The landscape here is truly captivating, with winding roads tracing through valleys and passing traditional stilt houses tucked into the hillsides. Along the way, visit the ruins of an old French military outpost before continuing across rolling hills and lush valleys. In the late afternoon, we transfer to Du Gia for the evening.

Du Gia is a hidden mountain gem, surrounded by pristine landscapes and untouched waterfalls that captivate nature lovers. In the early morning, experience the authentic rhythm of local life as ethnic minority communities gather at the vibrant village market. After a leisurely breakfast, explore the peaceful villages and colorful local markets by bike or on foot, soaking in the charm of this remote countryside.

Later, we check out and enjoy a scenic two-hour shuttle transfer to Ha Giang. Following lunch in town, continue on a picturesque five-hour drive back to Hanoi through Vietnam’s ever-changing landscapes. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel for a refreshing shower, enjoy a farewell dinner with the team, and board the overnight train to Hue.

Arriving in Hue around 6:00 a.m., we transfer to our hotel, where we will stay tonight in this graceful imperial city. After breakfast, we store our luggage and set out for a full day of discovery through Vietnam’s former royal capital, exploring the timeless heritage of the Nguyen Dynasty and the charm of its peaceful villages.

We begin with a leisurely walking tour through the majestic Purple Citadel, once the heart of the imperial court. Rejoining our bicycles, we pedal onward to the serene Thien Mu Pagoda, perched gracefully above the banks of the Perfume River. After visiting the pagoda, we continue cycling along the river’s tranquil shores, passing ancient villages, traditional mandarin houses, and colorful temples that offer endless opportunities for memorable photographs on the way to the Nguyen emperors’ mausoleums.

A flavorful Hue-style lunch awaits before we continue our ride beside the peaceful Ta Trach River, crossing rustic bridges and rolling through vibrant countryside hamlets. Along the route, we visit local family-run workshops to glimpse traditional village life. Our final stop is the historic Tiger Arena, a fascinating relic of imperial entertainment. From here, we cross the Perfume River and return to the heart of Hue City as the day gently draws to a close.

We begin today’s journey with a short 10-minute transfer out of the city for a fabulous day of cycling. Ride along smooth concrete lanes through emerald rice fields to the elegant Thanh Toan Tile-Roof Bridge, one of Hue’s most beautiful ancient wooden bridges, set amid peaceful rural scenery. Meet friendly English-speaking villagers, learn about local traditions, and capture memorable photos before continuing through lush farmlands and nostalgic countryside villages toward the lagoons.

Along the way, admire fishing sampans, stilted shelters, and the quiet rhythm of local life. We follow scenic coastal trails past colorful cemeteries and ride flat seaside roads near Vinh Hien before tackling the gentle ascent of Phuoc Tuong Pass. A fresh seafood lunch awaits at Lang Co Beach. In the afternoon, conquer the legendary Hai Van Pass, pause for coffee at the summit, and take in breathtaking views over Lang Co and Da Nang Bays. Enjoy a thrilling descent into Da Nang before a comfortable shuttle transfer to Hoi An.

After a short transfer beyond the town, set off along peaceful riverside paths tracing the scenic Thu Bon River. Pedal through quiet countryside lanes accessible only to bicycles and motorbikes, weaving between charming villages and local farms where friendly farmers greet you along the way. Depending on the season, the landscape is painted with vibrant rice paddies, cornfields, and peanut farms.

Pause en route for a refreshing cold drink and tropical fruit break before continuing toward the gateway of the UNESCO World Heritage site of My Son Sanctuary. From the entrance, an electric shuttle takes you to the main archaeological complex, where you can explore the ancient ruins at your own pace and soak in the rich cultural heritage.

After your visit, return to Hoi An by support vehicle, stopping along the way for a delicious local lunch. Spend the remainder of the day unwinding by the pools or wandering the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An at your leisure, discovering hidden cafés, boutiques, and cultural gems on your own.

Set off at 8:00 a.m. for a scenic cycling journey across the Thu Bon River via Cam Kim Bridge, the gateway to a cluster of authentic river islands. Ride through Kim Bong Village, where skilled artisans preserve generations of woodworking traditions, before pedaling into the peaceful countryside.

Cycle along quiet lanes lined with farming canals, thatched homes, buffalo grazing in rice fields, and bamboo bridges, crossing a network of small river channels that reveal the charm of island life. Continue on scenic backroads beside the Truong Giang River, where cool breezes and traditional fishing nets create a picturesque setting.

After a village stop and a fresh seafood lunch, follow the coast past fishing hamlets and beaches to the river mouth. Take a ferry to Tam Hai Island, then another back to the mainland before continuing through rustic villages toward Chu Lai Airport for a late-afternoon transfer to Quang Ngai City. 

oday’s journey begins with a scenic 2.5-hour transfer to the charming coastal town of Tam Quan, a vibrant fishing port known for its bustling harbor, colorful boats, and authentic seaside atmosphere. Upon arrival, we hop on our bikes and begin pedaling through peaceful villages shaded by swaying coconut palms, where daily local life unfolds along quiet lanes and narrow country roads.

The cycling route winds through a captivating mix of landscapes, from rolling rice paddies and tranquil fishing communities to sparkling coastal stretches, traditional salt flats, and the gentle foothills of the surrounding mountains. Along the way, enjoy ever-changing scenery, fresh sea breezes, and glimpses of rural life that make this region so distinctive.

We pause for lunch in a small local town before continuing the ride through My Tho and onward toward De Ghi, following scenic backroads that reveal more of the area’s natural beauty and cultural charm. After approximately 75 km of rewarding cycling, the day’s adventure concludes in Cat Tien. From there, a comfortable transfer brings us to the coastal city of Quy Nhon, where a relaxing evening awaits after a memorable day on the road.

We begin the day with a 1-hour transfer on a beautiful coastal highway to Xuan Tho village, a seaside district, to start this morning ride. We'll follow a small route, bike through tiny villages and rice paddies, and stop at local families making bamboo brackets before we undulate on paths. Then, we will ride along the calm river to La Hai. The routes offer amazing sceneries along back roads, charming villages, and a lush valley, and sometimes along the sleepy river. We'll have a chance to race with Reunification Express's train parallel along the railways to Chi Thanh, where your delicious lunch awaits.

Following lunch, the quiet back road along the sleepy river and gravel road along Phu Ngan river, give us more chances to meet locals along fishing villages with many basket bamboo boats. There are many stops in tiny towns for coffee breaks and fruit. Then, we continue cycling on the hilly road to Da Dia Reef. The site is about 100 meters wide and 250 meters long, with an estimated 35,000 columns of basalt rocks. The rocks are dark lava columns with roughly flat surfaces of different shapes - round, pentagon, hexagon, polygon, etc. Locals called Ghenh Da Dia. We ride on the small concrete path through rice paddy fields and a lagoon to An Hai. We ride through tapioca farmlands and sweet potatoes and then to the coast to Tuy Hoa City. Enjoy a memorable farewell dinner with your team in the evening.

We’ll transfer to the outskirts of Tuy Hoa Airport, where our last day ride adventure begins. Pedal through vibrant village farmlands, lush rice paddies, and bustling local markets, soaking in the authentic countryside atmosphere. Continue the ride along scenic trails that run beside the express railway, then cruise through picturesque pathways leading to charming fishing villages. Cross the sea mouth and follow the breathtaking coastline toward Vung Ro.

Ride onward to Dai Lanh, where you can savor fresh seafood at a beachfront restaurant. Tackle the gentle ascent of the scenic Co Ma Pass before enjoying a rewarding downhill ride to the peninsula dock. From there, board a canoe for a short ride to the stunning Whale Island.

Spend your own leisure time on the beach, unwinding and relaxing after the rewarding cycling journey.

After breakfast, we’ll transfer you to Nha Trang to continue your onward journey. Tour ends