- Day 1: Journey from Hanoi to Mai Chau Valley Village
On the first day of your adventure, you will gather at 8 AM in Hanoi, prepared to embark on a picturesque journey that will take you deep into the heart of Vietnam’s breathtaking landscapes. As we set off, we will be traveling via a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle towards Hoa Binh. The drive will last approximately three hours, providing an excellent opportunity to witness the changing scenery as the urban landscape gives way to lush greenery and rolling hills.
Upon reaching Hoa Binh, we will begin our cycling experience, which spans about 50 kilometers and is expected to take around five hours. This segment of the journey is particularly delightful, as it takes you through numerous hill-tribe villages, each showcasing their unique way of life and culture. The journey features spectacular views, with the verdant valleys framed by towering karst mountains and dense tropical forests.
As you cycle along these scenic routes, you will have several stops to interact with the locals and visit their quaint villages. You might find yourself enchanted by their warm hospitality and rich traditions. Along the way, we will pass various plantations, providing insights into the agricultural practices of the region.
By the late afternoon, we will arrive in Mai Chau, a tranquil valley that welcomes you with open arms. You will spend the night with an ethnic Thai family, allowing you to immerse yourself in their traditional lifestyle. This unique experience offers a chance to enjoy authentic local cuisine and engage with your hosts, learning more about their customs and beliefs. Your accommodation for this evening is at a charming eco-lodge in Mai Chau Valley, where you can unwind in a peaceful environment surrounded by nature.
Inclusion:
The package includes a comfortable air-conditioned support vehicle, a knowledgeable cycling guide, fruit and snacks for the journey, drinking and mineral water, as well as a high-quality mountain bicycle (Trek Marlin 7 or a similar model). You will also be provided with a helmet for safety, along with your accommodations in a four-star resort, which features delightful local cuisine for lunch and dinner.
- Day 2: Cycling from Mai Chau to Pu Luong Nature Reserve
The next morning, you will awaken to the soothing sounds of nature, ready for another day of exploration. After enjoying a hearty breakfast, our cycling journey continues deeper into the rural landscapes, specifically towards the breathtaking Pu Luong Nature Reserve. Set out at 8 AM, with plans to complete the day’s activities by 5 PM.
A brief one-hour drive will take us to the starting point of our cycling route, where the landscape opens up before you, offering panoramic views of valleys, mountains, and flourishing forests. The day’s ride covers approximately 60 kilometers and is expected to take about five hours. As you pedal through these picturesque roads, take a moment to appreciate the serene beauty of the environment and the vibrant ethnic cultures that reside in this region.
The tranquility of Pu Luong provides a perfect backdrop for connecting with the locals, whose warm smiles and friendly gestures create an inviting atmosphere. You will find several opportunities to interact with the community, gaining insights into their daily lives and traditional customs. In the evening, arrive at your accommodation, a lovely local lodge where you can unwind after a fulfilling day.
Inclusion:
Included in this segment are a support vehicle, a dedicated cycling guide, and a stay at the Pu Luong Retreat. You will have access to the same high-quality mountain bicycle (Trek Marlin 7 or similar) along with a helmet. Meals will consist of breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as fruit, snacks, and ample drinking water to keep you hydrated.
- Day 3: From Pu Luong to Tam Coc
On the third day, you will start your morning with a nutritious breakfast before setting out on a cycling adventure towards Suoi Cham Water Wheels for lunch. The route today is a captivating 55 kilometers of cycling across diverse landscapes, which will take approximately six hours.
As you ride, you will be surrounded by stunning limestone karsts, dense forests, and vivid botanical gardens that call for exploration. Enjoy the exhilarating sensation of riding through nature while soaking in the stunning views and diverse wildlife native to the region. This is an excellent opportunity for photography enthusiasts to capture the incredible scenery.
After a day of cycling, you will arrive at your destination – Tam Coc, where you will be treated to a traditional dinner. Your accommodation for the evening will be at a comfortable four-star resort, providing you with a cozy environment for relaxation.
Inclusion for Day 3:
The amenities for this day include access to a support vehicle, your cycling guide, and a stay at the Emeralda Resort in Ninh Binh (or a comparable establishment). Of course, your mountain bicycle and helmet will be provided, along with breakfast, lunch, dinner, fruit, snacks, and drinking water throughout the day.
- Day 4: Exploring Tam Coc and Returning to Hanoi
The final day of this extraordinary journey starts early with breakfast before embarking on a cycling adventure in the renowned Tam Coc – Bich Dong area. At 8 AM, we will start our exploration. This beautiful region is often called “Halong Bay on land” due to its striking limestone cliffs coupled with emerald-green paddy fields, offering myriad cycling paths to choose from.
During the day, you will enjoy a two-hour boat trip along the Ngo Dong River, surrounded by stunning landscapes. This leisurely boat ride will give you the chance to explore breathtaking caves nearby and truly appreciate the natural beauty of the area.
After the boat trip, you will hop back on your bicycle for a short ride before we begin our return journey to Hanoi. Based on our estimated timeline, we should arrive back in Hanoi by 5:30 PM, marking the end of this exciting biking tour. It is essential to inform us of your booked hotel address in Hanoi so we can arrange for your transfer.
Inclusion for Day 4:
Once again, the package covers support from a vehicle and your cycling guide, along with a mountain bicycle and helmet. Meals will be provided, including breakfast, lunch, and all necessary refreshments to keep you energized throughout the day.
As this journey concludes, you will have not only experienced the stunning natural landscapes of Vietnam by bike 4 days but also gained glimpses into the lives and cultures of the people residing in these picturesque regions. Safe travels, and we hope this is just one of many more adventures to come.
