Biking Hanoi to Mai Chau Valley

Nestled just 135 km from Hanoi in the scenic Hoa Binh Province, Mai Chau is a tranquil valley that feels worlds away from the bustle of city life. Surrounded by dramatic mountains and lush greenery, this peaceful retreat is one of the most breathtaking destinations in the region.

Spend your days immersed in nature, cycling through emerald rice fields and winding village paths on an unforgettable two-day biking adventure. Along the way, you’ll uncover the rich traditions of the White Thai ethnic group—one of Vietnam’s most captivating hidden cultures.

From verdant jungles and limestone formations to serene mountain landscapes, Mai Chau offers a perfect escape for those seeking culture, adventure, and tranquility—all in one unforgettable journey.

Destination
Vietnam
Starts in
Ha Noi
Ends in
Ha Noi
Tour code
VCT: 2D- HAN-1
Levels
Difficult
Duration
2D/1N
Styles
Mountain Biking
Price
USD $445.00 445.00
No of cycling days
2
Group size
02 - 12
Average distance per day
40 km
Age to ride
18 - 70
Average climbing
Update soon
Bike hire
$28.00
Total cycling distance
95 km
E-bike hire
$70.00
Accommodation
3 - 4 star hotels
Single supplement
$65.00

Tour inclusions

  • Private A/C vehicle takes up all cyclists, luggage
  • Truck to carry all bikes, spare bikes, helmets
  • All entrance fees, ferry tickets
  • B= Daily breakfast, L= 2 Lunches
  • 1 night: double room/ twin room
  • Daily cold water, snack, fresh fruits, facial tissues
  • Pick up /drop off at hotels
  • English speaking guide throughout the tour

Tour exclusions

  • Bike & E-bike hire
  • Personal travel insurance
  • Other personal expenses
  • Single supplement
  • Drinks are not included with any meal

Full Itinerary

After being picked up from your hotel, you’ll enjoy a two-hour transfer to the shores of Hoa Binh Lake, where we’ll visit a traditional Muong minority village before beginning our cycling adventure.

Our ride starts along quiet country lanes that wind through the peaceful rural countryside toward Hoa Binh Lake. The first 19 kilometers follow gently rolling paved roads that meander along the lakeshore and cross a river via a suspension bridge. Leaving the lake behind, we gradually climb a mountain pass reaching an elevation of 578 meters, where spectacular views unfold over mist-shrouded karst formations and the vast Hoa Binh Reservoir.

After the ascent, we descend toward the lake and continue cycling along winding roads that hug the shores of the reservoir. Along the way, immerse yourself in lush forests, picturesque landscapes, and small villages that offer a glimpse into local life. We then reach National Highway 6 (QL6), where a short vehicle transfer takes us to Mai Chau.

Mai Chau Mountain View Resort
Lunch
Water
Snacks
Fruits
2 hrs
25 - 59 km
Climb:
24 km
| Descent:
15 km
+1372m
-1202m
+13.60%
-21.30%
Paved - rural paths

After a leisurely breakfast, begin today’s cycling journey directly from the hotel, riding through some of the most breathtaking rice terraces, traditional Thai stilt-house villages, rolling hillsides, and picturesque valleys. As you venture deeper into the remote countryside, the route gradually climbs onto a scenic high plateau surrounded by lush forests, offering spectacular viewpoints across verdant valleys, rugged mountains, gentle streams, and winding rivers.

Continue with a relaxing descent through the peaceful villages of Sam Khoe and Mai Hich, following quiet country roads that trace the banks of the serene Ma River. Along the way, enjoy frequent stops in local villages to meet residents and visit family-run businesses, providing an authentic glimpse into rural life. After a delicious lunch at a local restaurant in Mai Chau, we'll have a shuttle transfer back to Hanoi.

Breakfast
Lunch
Water
Snacks
Fruits
3 hrs
25 - 36 km
Climb:
6 km
| Descent:
10 km
+606m
-623m
+14.10%
-12.30%
Paved - rural paths

After being picked up from your hotel, you’ll enjoy a two-hour transfer to the shores of Hoa Binh Lake, where we’ll visit a traditional Muong minority village before beginning our cycling adventure.

Our ride starts along quiet country lanes that wind through the peaceful rural countryside toward Hoa Binh Lake. The first 19 kilometers follow gently rolling paved roads that meander along the lakeshore and cross a river via a suspension bridge. Leaving the lake behind, we gradually climb a mountain pass reaching an elevation of 578 meters, where spectacular views unfold over mist-shrouded karst formations and the vast Hoa Binh Reservoir.

After the ascent, we descend toward the lake and continue cycling along winding roads that hug the shores of the reservoir. Along the way, immerse yourself in lush forests, picturesque landscapes, and small villages that offer a glimpse into local life. We then reach National Highway 6 (QL6), where a short vehicle transfer takes us to Mai Chau.

Mai Chau Mountain View Resort
Lunch
Water
Snacks
Fruits
2 hrs
25 - 59 km
Climb:
24 km
| Descent:
15 km
+1372m
-1202m
+13.60%
-21.30%
Paved - rural paths

After a leisurely breakfast, begin today’s cycling journey directly from the hotel, riding through some of the most breathtaking rice terraces, traditional Thai stilt-house villages, rolling hillsides, and picturesque valleys. As you venture deeper into the remote countryside, the route gradually climbs onto a scenic high plateau surrounded by lush forests, offering spectacular viewpoints across verdant valleys, rugged mountains, gentle streams, and winding rivers.

Continue with a relaxing descent through the peaceful villages of Sam Khoe and Mai Hich, following quiet country roads that trace the banks of the serene Ma River. Along the way, enjoy frequent stops in local villages to meet residents and visit family-run businesses, providing an authentic glimpse into rural life. After a delicious lunch at a local restaurant in Mai Chau, we'll have a shuttle transfer back to Hanoi.

Breakfast
Lunch
Water
Snacks
Fruits
3 hrs
25 - 36 km
Climb:
6 km
| Descent:
10 km
+606m
-623m
+14.10%
-12.30%
Paved - rural paths

Isabel Wu from UK (not verified)

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 - 08:42

Permalink

It was amazing! 😄Thank you for asking!! I had a really great time 😊 And will definitely reccomened your group to others! Thank you again for all of the time spent organizing and to Ms Tam and Chris! :))) 21 - 22 October 2023

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