After breakfast, we hop on our bikes and roll out from the hotel, beginning the day with a gentle ride through town and along the river. Within a few kilometers, we leave the town behind and follow quiet roads past small villages nestled along waterways, enjoying the serene riverside scenery. A short river crossing brings us to National Road 12, which will be our route for today’s journey to Dien Bien Phu.

The ride offers a stunning cross-section of Northern Vietnam’s natural beauty—winding roads through grassy hills, rice fields, and verdant farms. We take on the challenge of Ma Phi Ho Pass, also known as Heaven Gate, before weaving through jungle-covered mountains toward a well-earned lunch break in the small town of Muong Cha.

Muong Cha’s local market is a vibrant hub, showcasing the daily life of nearby ethnic groups. You'll find handwoven bamboo baskets, colorful tribal clothing, fresh fruits and vegetables, and simple household goods brought in by locals from surrounding villages.

In the afternoon, we continue cycling through undulating farmland, where members of the Black Thai community often sell their produce roadside. The route crosses several rivers and passes through quiet towns near the Laos border before arriving in Dien Bien Phu. We check in at the hotel and enjoy a well-deserved dinner in the city.