Vietnam has an impressive coastal and mountainous landscape, making for beautiful routes that can only be fully experienced on a motorbike. For adventurous souls planning to take on the country’s most challenging yet rewarding offer, here are the best motorbike routes in Vietnam.
Motorbike Routes in Vietnam – Know before You Go
Planning and preparation are the keys to a successful, safe, and happy trip. The same goes for riding through motorbike routes in Vietnam.
1. Motorbike Rental – Getting a Motorbike
Travelers often question whether they should rent or buy a motorbike. The answer depends on your needs. But if you intend to make only one or two trips throughout Vietnam, renting a motorbike is more recommended.
See more: Buying a Motorbike in Vietnam
Most trips in Vietnam can be done on a 110 cc to 125 cc motorbike unless you want to conquer rougher terrains in the North. It is also advisable to rent well-known brands such as Honda or Yamaha, so when your vehicle breaks down, you can take it to the brand’s service store. Motorbike repair shops on the road are cheaper, but you may get scammed if you’re not careful.
A driving license is a must to ride a motorbike in Vietnam; otherwise, you may get in trouble with the local authorities. Read this article on how to Get a Motorcycle License in Vietnam.
Usually, travelers will start their trip from Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi as getting gear and renting motorcycles there is easier. Transportation to other parts of the country is also more straightforward. Here are our lists of trustworthy motorbike rental places in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi.
2. Accommodation
A common mistake travelers usually make while exploring motorbike routes in Vietnam is building their trip revolving around hotels in the countryside. Don’t do that! You won’t want to spend your precious nights in a quiet area without entertainment. You should try to aim for accommodations in a city or a populated town, which are easier to read reviews and book in advance:
That said, guest houses in Vietnam are great places to rest or take a quick shower for a cheap price.
3. Packing
To explore motorbike routes in Vietnam, a packed light is vital. However, you still need essentials such as travel adapters, raincoats, sunscreen, insect repellents, etc. We’ve compiled a list of things you need to pack for Vietnam.
For a long motorbike trip, consider wearing protective gear on the road.
4. Weather
Knowing the weather is crucial for any trip, even more so when traveling by motorcycle. Riding in the rain is tiring and dangerous when your vision is impaired and slippery on the road. Especially in mountainous areas, the rain sometimes can cause landslides, which pose significant dangers. That’s why you should avoid the rainy season in parts of Vietnam where you plan to travel.
Get a rainproof jacket for the rainy season in Vietnam
5. How Long It Takes for Each Motorbike Route in Vietnam
The travel time is dependent on your speed and the route you take. Generally, a 150cc (and below) motorcycle can ride 150-200 kilometers per day, and for models above 150cc, 200 – 300 kilometers/day is possible.
However, you should take into account your health and travel itinerary. For a leisure trip, it is recommended that you have a rest day after a full day of riding.
Most Stunning Motorbike Routes in Vietnam
Ha Giang Loop
Starting from Ha Giang City to Meo Vac Valley and ending at the Lung Cu Flagpole – Vietnam’s Northernmost point, this route has uncountable cliff-side passages, sharp bends, and hairpin turns that make even the most skillful driver sweat. Because of this, the Ha Giang Loop isn’t for the faint of heart and pushes your riding skills to the limit.
However, if you conquer this route, you’ll be presented with an awe-inspiring scenery of raw beauty. Vast landscapes of terraced fields, lush trees, soul-cleansing fresh air, and blooming buckwheat flowers in October will make you want to stay forever. Besides, you’ll be able to learn about the lives of the Hmong people and join an ethnic market.
Read our complete guide for Conquering the Ha Giang Loop on a Motorbike
DT652 (Da Lat – Nha Trang)
Of all motorbike routes in Vietnam, DT652 offers the most comprehensive package: the chill mountainous city of Da Lat and the coastal party center of Vietnam – Nha Trang. For those who can’t choose between a relaxing getaway and lively nightlife, this route gives you the best of both worlds. It is also one of the more accessible motorbike routes in Vietnam, considering that it only takes 5 hours from one end to the other. Along the way, travelers can admire the winding greeneries of tropical trees and azure seas once you reach Nha Trang.
Hai Van Pass
The name translates to an ocean of clouds in English, and if that isn’t a sign of absolute beauty, then we don’t know what it is. Hai Van Pass is probably the most famous motorbike route in Vietnam, stretching from Hoi An to Hue. It’s accessible, mildly challenging, and it requires a certain degree of navigation skills for a 4-hour drive. However, bikers will be rewarded with the perfect combination of an ocean view and vigorous forests. You can also
stop at Lang Co Lagoon for some Instagram-worthy pictures and take a dip in one of Vietnam’s most scenic beaches.
Khe Sanh – Phong Nha
Those bored with the usual ocean-forest view can try this lesser-known route – Khe Sanh – Phong Nha. The route is full of twists and turns, so your driving skills will be put to the test. Along the ride are peaceful rivers, picturesque farmlands, and untouched lakes that say mystery and beauty. But the most attractive thing about this route is what lies at the end of it – the Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a diverse biological reservoir of Vietnam, and a breathtaking location to see ancient limestone karsts and caves.
Our Thoughts on Motorbike Routes in Vietnam
During the pandemic, traveling on beautiful motorbike routes in Vietnam is an exciting way to explore off-the-beaten-path wonders throughout the country. You can start small by going on short trips from 1-2 days and then try extended travel when you’re ready. Whichever level you choose now, we hope that this guide on motorbike routes in Vietnam has given you helpful information and inspiration for a trip of a lifetime.