Key Highlights
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Spectacular views from one of the most rugged mountainous areas of Indochina and Vietnam
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Visit to UNESCO Geopark of Ha Giang
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Interacting with minority ethnic locals of the mountains.
Eligibility
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Rider should be able to ride 4-5 hours
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The participant has to be in good physical condition
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Should not have liver and kidney issues
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Should not have diabetes Mellitus, Asthma, Epilepsy, Heart problems, High BP
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No pacemaker implant
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Riders below 15 years should have a company of a parent / guardian
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Riders between 15-18 years can come solo with the disclaimer form signed by parent/ Guardian
Overview
TOUR TYPE : Guided
REGION : Vietnam
GRADE : Advanced
DURATION : 7 days / 6 nights
RIDING DISTANCE : 324 Km
TOTAL ELEVATION GAIN: 8000- 10000 m
GROUP SIZE : 02 – 16 Pax
EXPERIENCE : Regular Riders
SUITABLE FOR : 18 + Years
SEASON : March, April, May, September, October, November
MEALS : Meals veg + Non-veg (As per Itinerary)
NO OF CYCLING DAYS : 6
Tour Starts : Hanoi
Tour end : Hanoi
About the Ride
Embark on a cycling journey through Northern Vietnam's renowned Ha Giang loop, an experience that epitomizes the essence of the country's cycling scene. This region stands as the epitome of Vietnam's natural beauty, yet it also boasts rugged terrain and extreme challenges, making it an ideal destination for seasoned cyclists. The months of September and October emerge as the optimal time to traverse the Ha Giang loop, offering impeccable weather conditions for cycling and showcasing terraced rice paddies adorned in their vibrant green hues. As you pedal through the landscape, you may even witness local farmers engaged in the timeless tradition of harvesting fresh rice, adding a touch of authenticity to your journey. The route meticulously crafted by the Bike and Trek Adventures route planning team ensures an immersive experience, steering clear of main highways and tourist traps. Instead, it invites you to embrace the rustic charm of the landscape, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in its untamed beauty.
Touring with B T A-
In order to give you a surreal experience during the tour, Bike and Trek Adventure have planned the itineraries and routes meticulously. We have allocated enough time to be spent in each place, so that you don’t miss the breath-taking locales and the finest amenities each place has to offer. When you choose to tour with us, you can be assured of an unforgettable experience! Around 95% of our tracks are paved country road tracks, mostly on small hills for your safety and comfort.
ACCOMMODATION:
Accommodation is obtainable in any respect locations. Most of the resorts are lifestyle Resorts /luxury Eco Resorts, Hotels and heritage properties. Our value is primarily based totally on dual sharing. For individuals who wishes single occupation room, we provide single occupation room with extra cost.
TERRAIN
This itinerary allows for average daily distance of approximately 40-60 km. This is designed to enjoy the cycling through rural life and meet people of Vietnam. The vehicle will accompany and en-route make stop for bottled water and fruits juices for the cyclist. A nice way of sharing different experienced on the way. The Bike support vehicle will always travel behind the last cyclist. If you wish to take a break from riding than wait at the side of the road and support vehicle will pick you up. Road condition contains a mixture of tarmac, concrete, and some gravels. The majority of riding takes place on small concrete road through villages. Sometimes, it requires traversing a few kilometres on bigger to link up some small areas. Unpaved surfaces are found at some places in remote areas.
TRANSPORTATION / SUPPORT VEHICLE
We prioritize cycling from point A to point B whenever feasible, ensuring guests have ample opportunity to explore the surroundings on their bicycles. At certain junctures, our reliable and modern 16-seater minivan will be utilized to transport guests to designated start and end points, providing comfort and convenience. Equipped with air conditioning, these vehicles guarantee a comfortable ride.
In the event that a guest decides not to continue cycling after lunch, they can be safely transported inside the minivan. These vehicles are strategically positioned along the route for emergency purposes and can be readily utilized as needed to ensure the safety and well-being of our guests.
Liability and Personal Health Insurance:
Bike and Trek Adventure does not provide personal liability insurance to the guests on the trip. We recommend that each rider has the relevant Personal Health Insurance for travelling in Asia and coverage of activities such as cycling. As we generally cycle in remote and seldom-visited areas of Vietnam, immediate access to critical care infrastructure such as ambulances is often not available. To ensure your safety, we provide a support vehicle for our excursions. Your safety comes first to us and we plan ahead to make sure that you have everything you need to cycle at your best.
FOOD
We believe that eating local is not just a lot of fun but also are of those important elements of the destination experience- Very much a part of the adventure as they say! So, be flexible and prepared to savour and enjoy the varied and wonderful food of the world. Meals included and excluded are clearly specified on the detailed itinerary. When meals are included you will need to adhere to timings as these meals are usually at local restaurants. When meals are not included, your trip leader will be happy to make restaurant recommendations of favourite places frequented by the locals. Choice of vegetarian food can sometimes be limited and repetitive. Though special food, including vegetarian, child meals etc., can never be guaranteed. We do our best to accommodate your requests. On guided trips, please ensure you inform your leader if you are a vegetarian.
CLOTHING
We recommend cycling shorts, dry fit T-shirts or cycling jerseys, and firm footwear. Loose fitting dresses or flip-flops are unsuitable for a cycling tour. You don’t have to carry extra clothes during the rainy season, carry only a rain jacket. Your safety is our priority. We advise our guests to wear a helmet at all times during the cycling part of the trip. As experts who have enough experience traveling via south Indian roads, we recommend our riders to apply a nice coat of sunscreen lotion. For added protection, you can use sun sleeves for your arms and buff headwear for your neck.
PRECAUTIONS
Bring all of the crucial medications. Do now no longer ignore. Consume quite a few liquids. Don’t drink faucet water. Use handiest bottled water that's constantly stored in the vehicle
Travel insurance
Travel insurance is mandatory on all our trips and all details of your insurance policy including the policy number must be received by us prior to the start of your trip. We are unable to send you your travel certificate / Vouchers unless we receive them.
Money to Carry
Keep with you sufficient Vietnamese Dongs in cash, money exchange or your international card.
Personal gear
People with particular requirements are advised to bring their own Bicycles, pedals, shoes, saddle, helmet and cycling clothes.
Typical day on the trip
You will ride for about 5-6 hours through the villages and towns in the itinerary while also exploring the quaint lifestyle and the culture while you ride. The evenings are free for leisure activities and sightseeing.
Medical facilities available
There are medical facilities (First Aid) available but we suggest carrying your own first aid kit and personal medicines as well. Also consult with the family Doctor before coming on our tour.
Itinerary
DAY 1: HA NOI - BIKE FITTING AND WELCOME DINNER
No cycling today Meals provided: dinner Accommodation: Amorita Boutique Hotel – Upon arrival at the hotel in Hanoi's Old Quarter, you will undergo a meticulous bike fitting session, ensuring that our expert mechanics tailor your mountain bike precisely to your preferences and body dimensions. Once all riders have assembled and undergone the fitting process, we will commence the tour with a welcoming dinner featuring traditional Northern Vietnamese cuisine. This dinner provides an excellent opportunity for you to acquaint yourself with both your fellow cyclists and the members of the BTA team, setting the stage for camaraderie and adventure ahead.
DAY 2: HA NOI – HA GIANG CITY
Cycling distance: 22km Elevation gain: 800m Meals provided: Breakfast, lunch, dinner Accommodation: Cay’s Homestay or similar – At 6:00, our team will pick you up from the hotel for a 6-hour van journey to Ha Giang city in the north. This extended transfer allows ample time to acquaint yourself with the surrounding landscape or catch up on some rest. Along the route, we'll make a stop for a delightful local breakfast. Upon reaching Ha Giang, we'll indulge in lunch at the home of a local family, providing a genuine immersion into rural Vietnamese cuisine. Don't hesitate to sample unfamiliar dishes for a truly authentic experience! Following lunch, the Ha Giang Loop adventure truly begins. We'll hop on our bikes and embark on a mountain biking excursion, covering a distance of 22 kilometres with an elevation gain of 800 meters. Conclude the day with dinner and an overnight stay at a cozy local homestay in Ha Giang, immersing yourself fully in the warmth and hospitality of the region.
DAY 3: HA GIANG – YEN MINH
Cycling distance: 60km Elevation gain: 1500m Meals provided: breakfast, lunch and dinner Accommodation: 3-star hotel/Homestay or similar – Begin your day with a 25-kilometer bus transfer along a paved road, winding through local terraced rice paddies. While the morning scenery is undeniably breath-taking, the flat and relatively straight terrain is better suited for our less intense cycling tours. Upon reaching the end of the bus ride, saddle up on your bike and venture through Vietnam's limestone mountain range. Marvel at the stunning geological formations and misty rice terraces as you tackle steep climbs and descend hills at exhilarating speeds. Transitioning from the mountain range, the terrain levels out slightly as you traverse minority villages and mountain communities, immersing yourself in the rich local culture and engaging with the welcoming locals. A highlight of the day awaits at the mountain road pass known as "Heaven's Gate 1," offering a renowned vista of the Tam Son valley and the Twin Hills, showcasing one of Vietnam's most spectacular sights. The mix of challenging ascents and descents, along with intermittent flat sections, will put your cycling skills to the test, yet the scenic panoramas and heart-warming interactions with local hill tribes will make every pedal worthwhile. As the journey progresses, descend into Yen Minh, where traditional homes of local communities dot the landscape, offering a picturesque backdrop for your ride. Conclude the day with an overnight stay at a homestay in this tranquil northern town, soaking in the serene ambiance and rustic charm of the surroundings.
DAY 4: YEN MINH – NORTH POLE OF VIETNAM – DONG VAN
Cycling distance: 60km Elevation gain: 1700m Meals provided: breakfast, lunch and dinner Accommodation: Dong Van Eco Stone House or similar – In the morning, we'll embark on a leisurely bike ride for several kilometres to visit the nearby hill tribe market, offering a fascinating glimpse into the vibrant local culture characteristic of the heavily Chinese-influenced far North of Vietnam. It's an ideal opportunity to immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere and perhaps discover some Northern Vietnamese antiquities to take home as souvenirs. Continuing our journey, we'll ascend the "Way of Happiness Road" while marveling at the breath-taking Dong Van Karst Plateau, renowned as one of the world's most stunning natural landmarks (if you need convincing, just glance at the captivating photos). Upon reaching the road's summit, riders will have the chance to explore the historic Hmong King Palace (Vuong Chi Sinh Palace) and the iconic Lung Cu Flag Pole Tower. Concluding our day's adventures, we'll pedal 15 kilometres to Dong Van ancient town and settle into a comfortable hotel. Here, you'll have the opportunity for self-guided exploration of one of Vietnam's most historically rich hidden gems, immersing yourself in the captivating tales of the past that linger within its ancient streets.
DAY 5: DONG VAN - SKYWALK - NHO QUE CRUISE – MEO VAC
Cycling distance: 30km Elevation gain: 700m Meals provided: breakfast, lunch and dinner Accommodation: Vivi home or similar – Departing from Dong Van, our journey leads us through the enchanting Sky Walk, a cyclist-friendly route that occasionally cloaks in mist, creating an ethereal atmosphere akin to walking on clouds, hence its name. Along the way, cyclists will be treated to awe-inspiring views of the magnificent Ma Phi Leng Pass. Following the Sky Walk, riders will descend a steep downhill stretch to reach the Nho Que River, where they'll embark on an unforgettable Nho Que River cruise. As the boat navigates through the canyon, with walls plunging 700 meters deep, prepare to be mesmerized by the breath-taking scenery. Upon disembarking, we'll rendezvous with a waiting support van in Nho Que, retracing our route to the vibrant village of Meo Vac, where we'll spend the night, immersing ourselves in the colourful local culture and traditions.
DAY 6: MEO VAC – DU GIA
Cycling distance: 54km Elevation gain: 1500m Meals provided: breakfast, lunch and dinner Accommodation: Du Gia Stream Lodge – At daybreak, we embark on a thrilling ride from Meo Vac to the majestic Mau Due - Lung Ho summit, promising one of the most breath-taking panoramic vistas in Vietnam. This leg of the journey stands as one of the most challenging, so remember to keep hydrated throughout the ride. Conquering the summit demands endurance, even from seasoned cyclists, but the journey culminates with a well-deserved picnic lunch atop the mountain. The descent from the summit offers one of the most exhilarating stretches of any Mr Biker tour, boasting high speeds and adrenaline-fueled excitement as we glide down towards the serene riverside village of Du Gia. Here, we'll spend the night at a comfortable Riverview hotel, unwinding amidst the tranquil ambiance of the town.
DAY 7: DU GIA – HA GIANG – BUS TO HANOI
Cycling distance: 38 km Elevation gain: 800m Meals provided: breakfast and lunch – Kickstart your day with a visit to the vibrant local market in Du Gia, where you'll have the chance to mingle with members of various hill tribes, adorned in colourful attire, and admire their exquisite traditional crafts. From Du Gia, brace yourself for one of the most ruggedly picturesque segments of this adventure: a challenging uphill cycling stretch spanning 5 kilometres through remote mountainous terrain, framed by majestic cliffs, mysterious caves, and other natural wonders. This intense ascent marks the climactic peak of the Ha Giang Gauntlet. Following the demanding climb, revel in a well-deserved descent covering 20 kilometres, providing a blissful opportunity to rest weary cycling muscles. Concluding the cycling portion of the tour, enjoy a leisurely 10-kilometer ride on flat terrain to the town of Ha Giang, where you'll check into a comfortable hotel. Later in the afternoon, gather for a heartfelt farewell lunch at the hotel, bidding adieu to fellow riders and your trusty bike unless both of you plan to extend your stay in Ha Giang. As the day draws to a close, board a sleeper bus bound for Hanoi, arriving at 10:00 pm, bringing an end to this unforgettable cycling odyssey through the captivating landscapes of Northern Vietnam.
Inclusion
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Accommodations at 3 star hotels/homestay with daily breakfast (twin/double sharing)
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Meal Plan- Breakfast 6 / Lunch 6 / Dinner 6
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Air-conditioned van for transfers and support
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Support vehicle to carry gear, luggage, first aid
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Cycling guides and mechanics (number depends on group size)
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Entrance fees, boat trips
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High quality mountain bikes, all sizes
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All biking gear (bike, helmet, tool kit, water cage)
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Water, snacks, soft drinks, fresh fruit on biking days
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Free flow cold beer at the end of the tour
Exclusion
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Visa
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International airfares
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Hotel early check-in / late check-out
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Overweight luggage
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Personal expenses
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Travel insurance
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Tipping
Liability and Personal Health Insurance:
Bike and Trek Adventure does not provide personal liability insurance to the guests on the trip. We suggest that each guest has the relevant Personal Health Insurance for traveling in Asia and that it covers activities such as cycling. In the Mekong there is not extensive first aid support such as ambulances and modern medical practices. We provide a support vehicle for such instances.
Bikes
We have fleet of modern, MTB bicycles that are included in the cost of your tour. Saddle are wide and comfy gel cushioning and spring.
You need to bring your own clip in pedals if you prefer these. You also have the option to bring own bike seat/saddle. Which our mechanic will fit for you.
All bikes will be labelled with customers’ names so that they have the same bike each day and alloy smooth operations.
Guides throughout the Journey
During the riding days, we offer a professional guide to lead the ride as well as a backup vehicle. The person in charge will move your luggage to the new location. In bigger groups, two guides may be present, one in front and one behind the group. The guide makes sure that transportation, lodging, meals, and luggage transfers all go according to plan. This individual also takes care of our visitors' safety, general well-being, and bike maintenance while keeping a careful eye on traffic conditions and any updates to the route. Please be aware that the support vehicle typically stays with the riding group all day long, offering complete mechanical assistance and backup.
Cost (Euro 1450 per person)
Single supplement: € 180
E-Bike surcharge: € 220
Frequently Asked Questions
I am not a skilled rider. Can I join you on your tour?
We want more and more people to start utilising bikes for everything from commuting to work to taking leisurely outings, as we are an organisation headed by dedicated bike connoisseurs. Our adventures are therefore created so that the general public may enjoy the tour. To make it easier for you, we'll ride at a relaxed pace. Our trips are classified to help you understand the degree of fitness expected. Take part in one of TRA’s worldwide trips if you're searching for an adrenaline rush.
Do you bike during the summer months?
Cycling is enjoyable in almost any weather, even in the heat. Our tour guides will make a little alteration to the itinerary so you can avoid the intense afternoon sun. To make the journey satisfying for you, we'll include extra water stops and pay close attention to your necessities.
Do you go cycling when it rains?
Yes, cycling in the rain is perfectly pleasant. To keep you warm and dry along the trip, our staff will give you a poncho. Additionally, we will add mudguards to every bike so that you may easily ride over any terrain. We will arrange for a backup until the situation is clear or halt for breaks if the rain is making it difficult to navigate.
I have a tight dietary regimen. Will you be able to cook me a certain meal?
We genuinely like making you feel at home. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions or allergies when making your reservation so that we may ensure appropriate food preparations for you.
Will it be possible to personalize a tour?
We may tweak the trip if your group is seeking something more thrilling and daring. For additional information, get in touch with one of our amiable representatives.
How much should I tip?
In India, leaving a gratuity has become customary. You should donate as much as you feel is appropriate in light of your financial situation, the services you get, and your subjective assessment of those services.
How do you define backup?
We have a lot of local expertise because we've had ample experience leading amazing trips in Kerala . If you find difficult to ride any point you can hop on our back up vehicle
Must I purchase travel insurance?
Yes, before you leave your home country, we strongly advise purchasing extensive travel insurance.