North Vietnam & North Laos
A tough cycle route full of variety, for the experienced and adventurous traveler! And a must for those who like climbing regularly and enjoy intriguing culture and nature.
Distance:
1299 km
Level:
4
Stages:
20
Travel time:
4,5 weeks
Best travel period
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
8.5 / 10
8 / 10
Highlights:
2 Breathtaking mountain landscapes
3 Boat trip on the Nam Ou river through karst landscape
4 Luang Prabang, a beautiful Laotian city, declared World Heritage by UNESCO
Explore the freedom!
Cycling in North Vietnam and North Laos is cycling through quiet valleys and climbing, over though hills, in one of the most beautiful and desolate areas in these countries. Language problems, talking with your hands and feet, occasional primitive overnight stays and above all: experiencing something completely unique.








The cycle route starts in bustling Hanoi. Immerse yourself in the sultry bustle of this pleasant city. There is much to see. You can take a trip from Hanoi to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with breathtaking landscapes.
You will then start your cycling trip. North Vietnam is inhabited by countless hill tribes, such as the H’mongs, Meos, White and Black Tai. They still live entirely according to their own traditions. You cycle from valley to valley, through a breathtakingly beautiful mountain landscape, the jungle, rice fields, and tea plantations, an area with age-old traditions and customs. You will cycle through river valleys, past picturesque villages and will be greeted enthusiastically by the locals. Even though you make the necessary altimeters this will be rewarded with beautiful views.
From the city of Dien Bien Phu, best known for the battle during the First Indochina War against the French settlers, you cycle to the border with Laos. In the village of Muang Khua, you arrange an (impressive!) boat trip on the Nam Ou river and you will reach the idyllic Nong Khiaw, surrounded by beautiful karst mountains. A nice place to relax for a day.
Subsequently, you cycle further to Luang Prabang, the old royal city and as a World Heritage Site, a tourist attraction. Luang Prabang is definitely worth staying at for at least a day. We have set out a nice trip to the Kuang Si waterfalls, according to many one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world due to the striking blue water full of minerals. You continue cycling further south through an untouched, hilly region. Nature is beautiful here and you will enjoy the stunning views. The population is also very friendly. Cycling along the banks of the Mekong River you reach the tranquil Vientiane, the capital of Laos and known for its French colonial architecture. After a visit to this city, you cycle across “The Friendship Bridge” into Thailand, to the nice town of Nong Khai on the Mekong. From Nong Khai, you can make a trip to a special sculpture park. Then the last stage to Udon Thani follows, where we have arranged a stay in a great hotel with a swimming pool. Enjoy the delicious Asian food at one of the stalls on the large covered market in the city. With this, your journey comes to an end.
Do you want to continue cycling? We have several beautiful cycling routes that connect. Ending your trip in Vientiane is also possible. Do you want to visit Bangkok after your cycling trip? That is also possible.