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While 70 days is the average timeframe for cycle trips Vietnam from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, you might wonder: is there enough to see if you want to extend your journey? The answer is a big YES. Let’s dive into the top 10 cycle trips Vietnam recommended by seasoned bikepackers from the north to the south of Vietnam in this guide.
Ha Giang Loop – Top 1 cycle trip Vietnam
Ha Giang Loop is undeniably Top 1 cycle trip Vietnam, especially in mountainous areas. This route starts from Ha Giang city, which is 300km away from Hanoi, and goes through Yen Minh, Dong Van, and the incredible Ma Pi Leng Pass. This cycle trip will bring you to the high mountain peaks to see the beauty of northwest Vietnam.
During the circle routes, you can easily capture steep mountain passes, hairpin turns, and scenic spots, many blue long rivers alongside massive forests and deep valleys, which may be covered by many terraced rice fields grown by Vietnam’s ethnic minority communities. This is a great chance for you to discover the diversity of Vietnamese culture.
Some key spots that cyclists can visit are Quan Ba Heaven’s Gate – The gateway to the plateau offering sweeping views of the mountains, Hmong King’s Palace, ,Lung Cu Flag Tower and Đồng Văn Old Quarter.
- Distance: 300-400 km
- Duration: 6-8 days (depending on the traveler’s pace)
Cao Bang City to Ban Gioc Waterfall – Hidden gem of Northwest Vietnam
One more cycle trip Vietnam in the northwest region is from Cao Bang City to Ban Gioc Waterfall. Breathtaking as Ma Pi Leng Pass, Ma Phuc Pass has seven challenging winding turns and more “hidden gems” as vibrant villages, pristine lakes that are less known by the public.
At the end of this trip is Ban Gioc Waterfall – a huge waterfall lying on the border between Vietnam and China. It is famous for its scenic landscape and stunning views from every angle. Nguom Ngao Cave is also a part of the Cao Bang City – Ban Gioc Waterfall cycle trip. This cave is near Ban Gioc Waterfall and is easy to reach by bike. It usually takes you around 1-2 hours to explore this 2144-metre cave and observe many big and beautiful stalactites.
- Distance: 87-90 km
- Duration: 1-2 days (depending on the traveler’s pace)
The Ngang Pass – The Heavenly Pass
Located on the border of the provinces of Quảng Bình and Hà Tĩnh, the Ngang Pass is well known for “heavenly” mountainous landscapes. The path is famously rugged, featuring steep climbs and hairpin turns that make it a premier destination for those on cycle trips Vietnam looking for a truly heart-pumping journey.
For historical background, the Ngang Pass was a key strategic location during the Resistance War Against America. Additionally, on the Ngang Pass, there is the Temple of Saint Lieu Hanh who is one of the four immortal gods in Vietnamese folk religion.
Beside observing picturesque and romantic scenery with the endless mountain ranges stretching one after another on the Ngang Pass, you can visit ,Cảnh Dương coastal village where you can admire vibrant 3D painting walls, enjoy the peacefulness of a mural village, and see the daily life of fishermen.
- Distance: 6 km
- Duration: 1-2 hours (depending on the traveler’s pace)
Hai Van Pass – Ranked #2 in the top beautiful cycle trips Vietnam
Hai Van Pass is mentioned as “the most marvelous wonder” because of its historical and geographic significance. The pass connects Thua Thien – Hue province to Da Nang City. This stunning route features dramatic geographic contrast – lush green forests in the range of mountains and crystal blue sea on the other side.
On the ride, bikepackers who love exploration and conquering heights can experience its steep inclines and challenging turns. Notable landmarks along the route include the Hai Van Bac station and the Đon Nhat arch bridge. If you have a couple of days to relax in Da Nang city, discover 15 Things to Do in Da Nang for a Perfect Weekend Getaway
- Distance: 20 km
- Duration: 1-2 hours (depending on the traveler’s pace)
Ho Chi Minh Highway – The longest route in the list of cycle trips Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh Highway is the backbone of Vietnam, which is a major artery connecting Vietnam’s two largest cities – Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. The highway traverses a vast number of provinces, including Thanh Hoa, Nghe An, Ha Tinh, Quang Binh, Da Nang, Tay Ninh, and Can Tho. In the context of cycle trips in Vietnam, it presents the ultimate long-distance endurance challenge to the cyclists.
How about the landscape? Absolutely Stunning! The highway runs along the Truong Son mountain range, which will bring you a variety of travel experiences, from culture to history. During the journey, you will immerse yourself in a natural landscape including mountains, plateaus, massive wild forests, and coffee plantations. Unlike coastal routes that focus on tourism destinations, the Ho Chi Minh Highway allows cyclists to experience the wild and hidden beauty of rural, peaceful villages.
- Distance: 2,500 km (Main route)
- Duration: 14 days (depending on the traveler’s pace)
Ninh Thuan – One of the most beautiful coastal cycle trips Vietnam
Among all cycle trips Vietnam has to offer, the Ninh Thuan coastal route is consistently named the most beautiful in many years. Ninh Thuan coastal road, especially the DT702 route, is famous for pristine natural wonders and unique local culture.
The DT702 is a renowned coastal road traversing the provinces of Ninh Thuan and Khanh Hoa. The journey officially begins at the white sands of Ninh Chu Beach and concludes at the tranquil Binh Lap Peninsula – the “Maldives of Vietnam”. The road shows like a silk ribbon between the majestic peaks of Nui Chua National Park and the deep blue waters of the East Sea. .
One of the most significant highlights is Vinh Hy Bay, which is surrounded by limestone mountains and offers a rich marine ecosystem perfect for coral diving. It is a comprehensive journey of culture, cuisine, and self-discovery.
- Distance: 57 km
- Duration: 1-2 hours (depending on the traveler’s pace)
Binh Thuan – If you are a huge fan of the “Dune” series
If you think the Ninh Thuan coastal road is the same as Binh Thuan’s, that’s incorrect. The DT716 is a legendary coastal route in Bình Thuận province. Playing a vital connection between Phan Thiet, the world-famous Mui Ne beach, and the Bau Trang sand dune, this road is often described as a “natural masterpiece”.
The journey along this road offers a constantly shifting landscape, beginning with peaceful fishing villages and green dragon fruit gardens before reaching the iconic Bau Trang white sand dune. As with many coastal roads in Vietnam, you can visit the small fisherman villages when passing Mui Ne or have a relaxing time at a nice resort there.
- Distance: 40 km
- Duration: 2-3 hours (depending on the traveler’s pace)
Con Son Island – Unique cycling experience in Vietnam
A road trip on Con Son Island along the Dam Trau – Ben Dam route is recognized as the best way to explore the island’s wild beauty. The route is deeply immersive, blending natural scenery with sacred historical and spiritual values.
Major stops along the way include Con Dao Prison and Pier 914, a symbolic bridge stretching into the ocean named for the number of prisoners who died during its construction.
Nature enthusiasts will find the island’s ecology equally compelling, as the route passes through Con Dao National Park, a rare biological treasure featuring tropical rainforests and coral reefs. Highlights include Dam Trau Beach, famous for the unique sight of airplanes swooping low over the sand. The scenic landscape of this trip will be an unforgettable memory in your cycle trips Vietnam.
- Distance: 25 km
- Duration: 2-4 hours (depending on the traveler’s pace)
Mekong Delta Road Trip – A journey of cuisine and culture
The Mekong Delta is one of the most rewarding cycle trips Vietnam offers, thanks to its flat terrain, amazing riverside life, and the friendliest people living in this region. This trip does not follow a single road. Cyclists need to navigate many routes, including major roads, province-connecting roads, and sometimes residential roads.
The route highlights the unique cultural and natural diversity of southern Vietnam. Starting with Ben Tre, this destination is famous for its dense coconut groves and traditional handicrafts. Then you will go through many other provinces such as Can Tho, Tra Vinh… Floating markets of Can Tho, the flower village of Sa Dec, and Khmer-style Buddhist temples hidden in the jungles of Tra Vinh are well known and worth visiting during the journey.
During this trip, you can see countless vast rice paddies and fruit orchards, which create the peacefulness vibe you can never find in any other places. However, the journey requires attention to road conditions and traffic. You will pass hundreds of bridges, which will make your trip more challenging and memorable, I believe.
- Distance: 190 km
- Duration: 5 days (depending on the traveler’s pace)
To discover more about the Mekong Delta Road trip, click on our ultimate guide in the blog “Cycling Tour Mekong Delta Vietnam: Why You Shouldn’t Miss This Epic Adventure!”
Cat Tien National Park – Immerse in nature
Does this suggestion surprise you? Besides the mentioned choices of cycle trips Vietnam, cyclists who love nature can consider joining cycling tours in Cat Tien National Park. This choice is also fit with group activities like family bonding or teambuilding. To see how a Cat Tien National Park cycling tour for a group, read our cyclists’ stories in the Nam Cat Tien cycling tour.
Cat Tien National Park is a UNESCO-recognized World Biosphere Reserve offering a unique cycling adventure through a diverse ecosystem of rare flora and fauna. The dry season from January to April is the best time for this cycle trip. Cyclers can observe clear blue skies above the beautiful green forest and enjoy cool air without being annoyed by insects or leeches.
To get access to the park, cyclers will have to cross over the Dong Nai River by a ferry, which is included in the 60,000 VND entrance fee. On arrival, we can rent bicycles at the service center for 150,000 VND for a day, providing a way to escape from the noise of city life.
The “Night Safari” tour is recommended as a night outing experience in Cat Tien National Park. Together with a National Park guide, you can see many wild animals at night, and then visit Tien Island, a dedicated primate rescue center. Although this trip is less known than all the above options, it is undeniable to say that the positive feelings of ecological immersion make Cat Tien one of the most memorable cycle trips Vietnam nature lovers keep coming back to.
- Distance: 20 km
- Duration: 8 hours (depending on the traveler’s pace)
Cycle trips Vietnam are amazing, but don’t forget this…
Besides health and preparing cycling skills, here are essential tips for long or short cycle trips Vietnam:
- Choose the correct cycling helmets and gloves to ensure your safety and comfort during long rides.
- Always use sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to shield yourself from sunlight.
- Wear sporty clothing, but prepare modest ones in case you want to visit historical or spiritual sites.
- Have a GPS device or a phone with internet connectivity to navigate routes.
- Learning road classifications is a need. In rural areas like the Mekong Delta, prioritize HL roads to cycle instead of major highways (QL roads), which are often crowded with heavy trucks and buses.
- Choose your route based on your skill level. The Mekong Delta offers flat, accessible terrain suitable for all levels. In contrast, mountain passes like Hai Van or Ngang Pass have challenging, steep inclines and hairpin turns that need more experience and physical endurance.
Love the idea of a cycle trip but want to start with something more manageable? Explore the hidden corners of Vietnam on a curated, short-distance journey with Jackfruit Adventure.
