Ride the Highlands (3 Day Loop)
Ride the Highlands: 3 Day Motorbike Adventure in Northern Vietnam
“Life is short. Travel, have a ride, live your dreams.”
ROAD TRIP DETAILS:
Total Distance: 350km approx. (route may alter based on the weather)
Duration: Three day loop (only availble for self drivers)
Route: a mountainous loop through Lai Chau and the Sin Ho Plateau.
Road Conditions: paved back-roads and gravel tracks.
Travel Style: Adventure riding and cultural immersion
Accomodation: One night camping and a night in a hotel.
Scenery: Mountain passes, karst peaks, highland plateaus and lakes.
Maximum: 4 people
Background:
This is a journey for riders who crave the thrill of the open road, the grit of gravel beneath their wheels, and the quiet warmth of shared meals in remote mountain villages. Over three days and two unforgettable nights, this loop takes you deep into Vietnam’s lesser-known northern reaches; a blend of technical riding, wild landscapes and cultural connection.
The ride begins with winding backroads that twist their way past limestone peaks and shaded forest edges. A short stop allows time to explore a nearby cave before continuing on through a patchwork of tea plantations hidden in the folds of the highlands; some of the country’s most scenic regions. After a traditional home-cooked lunch with a local Thai family, you’ll head on towards a remote nature reserve. As the sun dips behind the ridgeline, the day ends in a wild camp spot beneath the stars. Dinner is cooked over fire and shared by torchlight.
Day two is for those who love their riding a little more technical. Gravel tracks climb towards forested slopes and through a web of hairpins, rocky passes and off-grid villages. Remote and rugged, this section of the loop demands confidence and focus. In the afternoon, there’s the chance to take on optional trail riding routes for those with off-road experience. The night finishes in either a homestay with a local family or a very simple guesthouse; a soft bed, a hot meal, and plenty of stories.
The final day follows undulating paved roads and mountain passes back towards Sapa. The landscape opens up into sweeping highland plateaus, mountain lakes and quiet valleys, with time to take in the scenery as you head homeward. With its mix of cultural immersion, raw natural beauty and off-the-beaten-track riding, this loop is designed for those who want more than just a road trip.
Who is it for?
This loop is best suited to experienced riders. Motorbike experience is essential and previous off-road riding is highly recommended. Some sections on day two are rough and steep, especially in wet conditions. Travellers should be prepared for remote settings, physical challenge and basic but rewarding accommodation.
This is moto camping with meaning: where adventure meets community and the road opens up into a story worth telling.
Includes:
English Speaking local guide
Homestay accomodation
Camping equipement
All meals, snacks and refreshments
Motorbike Hire
Fuel
Excludes:
Personal Health / Travel Insurance
Prices - Ride the Highlands 3 day experience
2 people - $465 per person
3 people - $395 per person
4 people - $365 per person
Community based tourism (CBT) is a form of tourism where local communities are directly involved in developing, managing, and benefiting from tourism activities within their area. It emphasises community ownership, cultural preservation, and sustainable practices, offering visitors authentic experiences and fostering economic opportunities for residents.
“No matter what the conditions, the most important thing you can bring along when motocamping is a good attitude”
Please travel with respect. Dress modestly, support local crafts, protect nature, be patient, and stay safe. Connect, learn, and contribute positively during your ETHOS journey. Please refer to our terms for booking conditions for all ETHOS experiences.
