Package : Ninh Binh – Sapa – Ha Giang Easy Rider 6D5N

Experience the North of Vietnam with the 6-Day Ninh Binh – Sapa – Ha Giang Easy Rider Tour

This 6-day journey offers a fantastic chance to see some of Vietnam’s most breathtaking landscapes, from the lush rice paddies of Tam Coc to the rugged mountains of Ha Giang. For $345 per person, you’ll travel with a small group, guided by friendly English-speaking guides, and stay in a mix of homestays, hotels, and even sleep on a sleeper bus.

What we love most about this tour is the way it combines iconic sights like the boat tour in Tam Coc with authentic local experiences, such as staying with the Black H’mong and Giay people in Sapa. Plus, the drive through Ma Pi Leng pass is a highlight, offering some of the most stunning mountain vistas you’ll ever see.

A consideration for some travelers might be the bus rides—spanning several hours each day—and the fact that accommodations are mainly homestays, which may not suit everyone’s comfort preferences. Still, for those craving real local flavor and spectacular scenery, this is a rewarding adventure perfect for those with a sense of curiosity and a love for mountain landscapes.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy diverse experiences: scenic boat rides, mountain trekking, cultural interactions, and striking viewpoints. It’s ideal for those who appreciate a balance of active exploration and relaxed local stays, and who aren’t shy about spending nights on a sleeper bus or in simple homestays.

Key Points

• Stunning landscapes: Expect unforgettable mountain views and lush rice fields.
• Authentic cultural encounters: Stay in local homestays with ethnic minorities.
• Diverse activities: From boat rides to mountain trekking, there’s plenty to keep your camera busy.
• Mega Value: All meals, entrance fees, and transportation are included, making it easy to relax.
• Flexible booking: Reserve with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Small group size: Limited to 15 participants, ensuring a personal experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: From Hanoi to Ninh Binh and onward to Sapa

Your adventure begins early in Hanoi, with pickup at 7:30 am from your hotel or hostel in the Old Quarter. The first stop is Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s ancient capital, where you’ll get a quick snapshot of history amid scenic surroundings. Then it’s time for the Tam Coc boat tour, often described as “Rice Fields – Halong Bay on land,” because of the towering limestone karsts rising from the water and the lush scenery surrounding you.

The boat ride lasts about 2 hours, offering peaceful views of rice paddies, caves, and water buffalo grazing. Afterward, you’ll enjoy a simple Vietnamese lunch before trying a bit of local cycling and a short hike to the Dragon Mountain viewpoint, known locally as Mua Cave. From here, you get a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside, perfect for photos and just soaking in the landscape.

The day ends with a sleeper bus leaving Hanoi at 10 pm, whisking you overnight to Sapa. The bus ride is about 6 hours—comfortable enough with a sleeper bed, but keep in mind you’re on the move for quite some time after a day of sightseeing.

Day 2: Sapa Trekking and Local Life

Arriving early in Sapa, you’ll start your day with a hearty breakfast at 6:30 am before hitting the trails at 8 am. We loved how this part of the trip offers an intimate look at local ethnic communities. You’ll trek approximately 12 km, passing through Y Linh Ho and Ta Van, with opportunities to meet Black H’mong people and stay overnight in a homestay hosted by the Giay community.

The trek is moderate—enough to feel like an authentic adventure without being overly strenuous. The chance to interact with local people, learn about their customs, and stay in their homes adds a genuine touch not found in typical tourist spots. Many reviews praise the experience, describing it as “a real window into rural life,” and noting that the guides are friendly and informative.

Day 3: From Sapa to Ha Giang via Giang Ta Chai

After breakfast at 7 am, you’ll visit Giang Ta Chai, home of the Red Dao people, and enjoy more mountain scenery before returning to Sapa. The afternoon involves a bus ride at 4 pm to Ha Giang—a journey of about 4 hours. Arriving in Ha Giang in the evening allows you to settle into a hostel and prepare for the next day’s adventure.

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Day 4: Ha Giang and the Mountainous Northern Loop

Starting early, around 8:30 am, your mountainous loop tour kicks off. This part of the trip is where the landscape truly impresses. Highlights include the Dong Van Karst Plateau and the Heaven’s Gate pass, where views of jagged peaks and deep valleys unfold before you.

Traveling through Yen Minh, you’ll visit the Angel Couple Hill and enjoy a local lunch in Nam Dam village. The scenery here is jaw-dropping—pines towering over vast fields, winding mountain roads, and tiny villages dotting the landscape. The route is often described as “spectacular,” especially the drive through Ma Pi Leng pass, dubbed the “King of Passes.” The views here are remarkable, with steep cliffs plunging down into the Nho Que River.

Day 5: Exploring Dong Van and Lung Cu

Continuing the mountain journey, you’ll visit Lung Cam Village—famous for its old houses—and the Lung Cu Flag Tower, standing on the border with China. The views from the tower give a sense of being at the edge of Vietnam, with sweeping mountain vistas all around.

Later, you’ll visit Dong Van Old Quarter—a small town with traditional architecture and local markets—before heading back to Yen Minh for the night. Many travelers mention the stunning viewpoints and the chance to see traditional markets and daily life in remote villages, which add a layer of authenticity to the trip.

Day 6: Ma Pi Leng and Back to Ha Giang

The final day of the loop passes through Meo Vac, a small town, where you’ll get a chance to hike at Died Cliff Viewpoint—a perfect spot for panoramic shots. The scenic Ma Pi Leng Pass marks the highlight of this leg, with narrow roads hugging sheer cliffs and views of a rushing river far below.

The tour wraps up in Ha Giang around 5 pm, where you’ll return to your hostel, freshen up, pack your bags, and prepare for onward travel. This last drive is often hailed as one of the most scenic mountain drives in Vietnam, worth the journey for the views alone.

The Practical Side: What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers excellent value, with all transportation, five nights of accommodation (including one night on a sleeper bus), all meals, and entrance fees covered. The boat tour in Tam Coc and the easy rider ride in Ha Giang are highlights, ensuring you see the best sights without added hassle.

The tour guide speaks English, and small group sizes—limited to 15—mean you’ll get personalized attention and more intimate conversations about local life. The homestays give you a taste of rural Vietnam, though they may be simpler than hotel stays, which some travelers find charming rather than basic.

On the downside, the bus rides can be long and may be tiring for some. The private room surcharge is an extra cost if you prefer your own space, and meals outside the included ones are not covered, so plan for personal drinks and snacks.

Authentic Experiences and Scenic Highlights

Travelers consistently mention the stunning views that make this tour special. From the boat ride in Tam Coc to the mountain passes in Ha Giang, each viewpoint offers a glimpse of Vietnam’s spectacular terrain—waves of mountains, lush rice paddies, and dramatic cliffs.

Many reviewers have described the Ma Pi Leng pass as “absolutely breathtaking,” with some saying it’s among the most impressive mountain drives they’ve ever experienced. The chance to stay overnight with local families in Sapa and the Red Dao homestay in Giang Ta Chai provides authentic cultural insights often missed on more commercial tours.

The boat tour in Tam Coc, dubbed “Halong Bay on land,” is a peaceful respite from the drive, offering calm waters and limestone formations. The view from Mua Cave is another highlight—climbing to the top reveals a panoramic perspective of the surrounding valley, perfect for photos and quiet reflection.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want to see Vietnam’s natural beauty and meet local communities but prefer a structured itinerary. It suits those with a good level of mobility—since there’s trekking and some walking—and an interest in culture and landscape photography.

Families with older children, adventurous couples, or solo travelers who enjoy small group tours will find this a rewarding way to explore northern Vietnam. Keep in mind that the homestay experience involves staying in local homes, which might not appeal to those seeking luxury comfort.

The Sum Up

The Ninh Binh – Sapa – Ha Giang Easy Rider tour delivers a well-rounded look at Vietnam’s northern mountains, offering a mix of scenic drives, cultural encounters, and outdoor activities. For around $345, you’re getting a comprehensive experience that balances adventure with authenticity—making it one of the best ways to see this part of Vietnam without feeling rushed.

If you love mountain vistas, rural villages, and local cuisine, this trip will satisfy your wanderlust. It’s especially suited for those open to overnight bus rides, simple homestays, and spending mornings trekking through some of Vietnam’s most iconic landscapes.

While the journey involves some long travel days, the views, cultural richness, and genuine interactions make every moment worthwhile. This is a trip designed for curious, active travelers eager to see Vietnam’s raw, unfiltered beauty.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, all transportation, including buses and easy rider rides, is included in the package, along with boat tours and transfers between destinations.

How many nights do I stay in homestays?
You will stay in homestays for 4 nights, experiencing local life in Sapa and Giay communities, with one night on a sleeper bus.

What is the group size?
The tour limits groups to 15 participants, which helps keep things personal and allows for better interaction with guides.

Are meals provided?
All meals are included during the tour, covering breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks, making it easier to enjoy local flavors without extra planning.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Is this suitable for older travelers?
The tour is not recommended for people over 95 or 70 years old due to the physical activity involved, such as trekking and long bus rides.

This well-crafted, authentic journey through northern Vietnam offers an excellent balance of scenery, culture, and adventure. Whether you’re capturing sunrise views from mountain passes or sharing meals with local families, this tour promises a memorable peek into Vietnam’s rugged beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: