Ride through the heart of Thailand on this 5-day motorcycle tour that combines the legendary Mae Hong Son Loop with its 1,864 thrilling curves, with a full throttle off road Enduro day in Pai’s remote jungle. From misty mountains and wild single tracks to serene villages and epic viewpoints, this tour is built for experienced riders craving challenge and culture. Tackle tight corners, scale Doi Inthanon, and swap to a dirt bike for some serious jungle action. With premium adventure bikes, expert guides, and local immersion every step of the way, it’s more than just a ride, it’s the ultimate Northern Thailand experience.
Itinerary
Day 1 – Hanoi to Pu Luong
Distance: 180 km
Duration: Approx. 6 hours
Highlights: Hoa Binh Dam, Scenic Backroads, Pu Luong Nature Reserve
We kick off the journey by escaping the energetic chaos of Hanoi and heading straight for the peace of the countryside. Leaving the city behind, we quickly transition onto quieter roads where traffic fades and the landscape opens up. Our route takes us past the impressive Hoa Binh Dam and into a maze of winding backroads that reveal rural Vietnam at its finest – rice paddies, forested hills, and roadside villages where time seems to slow down.
We’ll venture off the beaten track onto narrow ATK-style roads, giving us a taste of light adventure and a deeper connection with the land. As we ride deeper into the heart of northern Vietnam, the terrain grows more lush and mountainous, eventually leading us into the tranquil embrace of Pu Luong Nature Reserve. This area is rich with terraced hillsides and bamboo forests, home to ethnic Thai communities and rich biodiversity.
By late afternoon, we reach our peaceful homestay nestled in the valley, surrounded by nothing but nature. After a day of stunning views and quiet roads, it’s the perfect place to relax, enjoy a home-cooked meal, and gear up for the next leg of our adventure.
Day 2 – Pu Luong to Tan Ky
Distance: 220 kmDuration: Approx. 8 hours
Accommodation: Comfortable Hotel
Highlights: Scenic backroads, Gateway to the Ho Chi Minh Trail
We depart from the peaceful surrounds of Pu Luong and head south for one of the longer days in the saddle. Today’s route guides us through an ever-changing mix of rural roads and rolling hills, gradually leading us toward the historic starting point of the Ho Chi Minh Trail in Tan Ky.
Our path sticks to lesser-travelled roads, offering a more relaxed pace than the main highways, although traffic still flows steadily in places. As we make good time along the route, the scenery begins to shift once again. The farmlands give way to undulating hills, and the air grows fresher with every passing kilometre.
As the day stretches on, we find ourselves gradually climbing, with gentle curves carving through the countryside and giving glimpses of the highlands to come. It’s a long but rewarding ride, capped off by an overnight stay in a comfortable hotel in Tan Ky, where the adventure along the legendary trail truly begins.
Bottom of Form
Day 3 – Tan Ky to Phong Nha
Distance: 275 km
Duration: Approx. 8 hours
Accommodation: Resort Stay
Highlights: Mountain Passes, Border Landscapes, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park
Today marks a shift in scenery and atmosphere as we venture deeper into Vietnam’s remote interior, steering toward the breathtaking region of Phong Nha. Leaving Tan Ky behind, we follow a path that begins to trace the borderlands near Laos, where cultures blend and the landscapes grow increasingly wild.
As we ride further south, the terrain becomes more mountainous and the roads begin to twist and climb through dense, untouched jungle. This stretch is a rider’s dream: remote, scenic, and full of winding roads that offer both challenge and reward. The population becomes noticeably more diverse, with different ethnic communities dotting the roadside. This is a reflection of the region’s proximity to international borders.
The air is cooler and crisper at higher elevations, and the lush green canopy surrounds us as we push through quiet passes and valleys. The final leg brings us into the renowned Phong Nha Nature Reserve, home to some of the world’s most impressive cave systems and dramatic limestone peaks.
We arrive in the late afternoon and settle into a relaxing resort nestled near the national park. The perfect place to unwind after a long day in the mountains.
Day 4 – Rest & Exploration – Phong Nha
Accommodation: Resort Stay
Highlights: Caves, Lakes, Scenic Loops, Optional Coastal Ride
Today is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Phong Nha is bursting with adventure and natural beauty, offering something for every kind of traveller. For those feeling energetic, options include ziplining across jungle rivers, exploring vast underground cave systems, or soaking in therapeutic mud baths hidden in the hills.
Prefer to keep it easy? Lounge by the pool, take in the views, and enjoy the peaceful rhythm of the countryside. Riders who still have the itch to explore can cruise the surrounding backroads or take a detour to the nearby coast for a refreshing dip in the sea.
Whether you choose to dive into adrenaline-pumping activities or simply unwind in serene surroundings, today is all about recharging in one of Vietnam’s most remarkable regions.
Day 5 – Phong Nha to Khe Sanh
Distance: 250 km
Duration: Approx. 8 hours
Accommodation: Hotel Stay
Highlights: Ho Chi Minh Trail, Remote Jungle Roads, War Memorial & Airbase
Today we rejoin the historic Ho Chi Minh Trail, heading south toward the highland town of Khe Sanh. The route takes us deep into the jungle on a quiet, remote stretch of road where the only sounds are the hum of your engine and the wildlife around you. Although it’s a long ride, the path is straightforward and easy to navigate, allowing everyone to ride at their own rhythm.
The isolation here is part of the charm—long, winding stretches through thick forest and misty hills, with barely another soul in sight. As we near Khe Sanh, the landscape opens up and we regroup just outside the town.
Depending on our arrival time, there’s usually a chance to visit the nearby war memorial and the remnants of the old airbase—a site steeped in history from the Vietnam War era. It’s a poignant stop that offers perspective before we settle in for the night and prepare for the next leg of the journey.
Day 6 – Khe Sanh to Hue
Distance: 175 km
Duration: Approx. 6 hours
Accommodation: Hotel Stay
Highlights: Ho Chi Minh Trail, Jungle Routes, Imperial City of Hue
We continue our journey south, once again following the scenic and historic Ho Chi Minh Trail as it winds through the dense jungle. The road is peaceful and remote, cutting through misty forests and rolling hills, making it another brilliant riding day with no shortage of natural beauty.
Eventually, the terrain begins to shift as we leave the mountains behind and descend toward Vietnam’s central coast. Our destination is Hue, the former imperial capital, rich in history and home to the iconic Citade – a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
From here, we face an optional route decision. Riders can opt to detour through A Luoi for a more secluded mountain ride down to Danang. However, this choice means missing the legendary Hai Van Pass. This is a world-renowned coastal road known for its sweeping curves and ocean views.
It’s a trade-off between deep jungle exploration and coastal thrill, but no matter the choice, the road ahead promises to be memorable.
Day 7 – Rest & Discovery – Hue
Accommodation: Hotel Stay
Highlights: Ancient Royal Tombs, Tiger Arena, Beaches, Perfume River
Today is yours to uncover the charm and culture of Hue, Vietnam’s former imperial capital. The city is steeped in history, with numerous royal tombs, crumbling citadels, and sacred landmarks waiting to be explored. A visit to the iconic Tiger Arena offers a rare look into Vietnam’s past sporting traditions.
For a more laid-back experience, head to one of the nearby beaches to unwind, or hop aboard a boat for a tranquil cruise along the Perfume River. One popular stop is Thien Mu Pagoda, perched above the water and closely tied to the legacy of Zen master Thich Nhat Hanh.
Whether you spend the day immersed in history or soaking up the coastal breeze, Hue offers a perfect blend of culture and calm to enjoy at your own pace.
Day 8 – Hue to Danang
Distance: 110 km
Duration: Approx. 5 hours
Highlights: Hai Van Pass, Lang Co Beach, Coastal Military History
Today’s ride features one of Vietnam’s most iconic stretches of road, the legendary Hai Van Pass, or “Ocean Cloud Pass.” This winding mountain route hugs the coastline and offers jaw-dropping views of the East Sea, with every turn revealing a new scenic masterpiece. It’s a favourite among motorcyclists for good reason.
Along the way, we’ll pass Lang Co Beach, a pristine bay known for its calm waters and palm-fringed shoreline. This is perfect for a photo stop or a quick break.
You’ll also notice remnants of old military bunkers dotting the pass. While some are accessible, others remain off-limits due to ongoing strategic use by the Vietnamese military. It’s a good idea to be respectful and cautious when exploring the area.
As we roll into Danang, Vietnam’s fastest-growing coastal city, you’ll feel the shift from rural charm to urban energy, and truly marking the end of an unforgettable leg of the journey.
Price
| *Swipe Left For Pricing | Per Rider | Pillion / Passenger | Single Room / Supplement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kawasaki Versys, Suzuki v-strom, Honda cb 500x | $2,400 / ฿78,700 | $800 / ฿26,300 | $400 / ฿13,200 |
| BMW GS F 700 low / 750 / 800 / 850 / 900 / KTM 790 R | $2,896 / ฿95,000 | $800 / ฿26,300 | $400 / ฿13,200 |
| BMW R 1200 / 1250 GS | $3,384 / ฿110,900 | $800 / ฿26,300 | $400 / ฿13,200 |
* Subject to exchange rates
Note:
- If you’re traveling alone and request a shared room, this rate depends on another solo traveler choosing the same option. In the event no roommate is available, a single occupancy fee will be added.
- Please see our Terms & Conditions
Included
- Motorcycle
- Gas
- Breakfast (Not on the starting day)
- Lunch (Excluded on Rest day)
- Dinner (Excluded on Rest day)
- Teas, Coffee soft drinks served with meal only
- Carefully selected Hotel 3/4 Stars
- All Riding gear (Helmets Bluetooth, Gloves, Jackets, Pants)
- Third party liability insurance for motorcycles
- Tour Guide, TAT licensed
- Chase vehicle with spare Motorcycle
- 2 Free T-shirt (Big Bike Touring Co and Route 66 Bikers Cafe)
- Airport Services Pickup/Return for Groups 4 or more
- All entrance fees to Historic Sites and National Parks
- TAT insurance
Excluded
- All services not mentioned as included
- Any Hotel Additional Services
- Motorcycle Health Insurance @ $3/day
- CDW (collision damage waiver) insurance
- Security deposit on motorcycles
- Snacks during coffe stops
- Alcohol
- Airfare
- Visa
- Any tips for the guides and support truck drivers (suggested $50 to $100)
