Guide to North Vietnam by Motorbike: Weather, What To Expect, Routes and Tips

North Vietnam, with its towering mountains, challenging roads, breathtaking scenery, and rich history and culture, is a paradise for adv riders. While the region offers some of the most thrilling and rewarding motorbiking experiences in Southeast Asia, its beauty comes with unique set of challenges.

This guide to North Vietnam by motorbike will provide you with: weather information, what to expect, best motorbike routes, tips for motorbiking in North Vietnam. You can also find answers to common questions about motorbiking in North Vietnam at the end of the blog.

Weather in the North Vietnam

Weather is a crucial factor to consider when exploring North Vietnam by motorbike. The region’s climate is humid subtropical, with four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Check this weather guide below for the best time to travel to suit your preference and style:

Spring in Northern Vietnam (Ferbuary-April)

Spring in North Vietnam offers pleasant weather, with temperatures typically ranging from 20-21°C. While the first month of spring, February, can still be relatively cool with average temperatures around 20-22°C and potential night lows of 14°C, March and April gradually become warmer, reaching 24°C on average.

• What to expect: Enjoy the breathtaking scenery of blooming peach blossoms, plum flowers, and wildflowers that transform the mountains into a picturesque masterpiece. As you explore the diverse terrain of Northern Vietnam during spring, be captivated by the vibrant landscapes and pleasant weather.
• Perfect time for motorbike trip to: Sapa, Ta Xua, Ha Giang, Moc Chau, Mai Chau and Pu Luong

Summer in Northern Vietnam (May-August)

Summers in North Vietnam are hot and rainy, with temperatures often reaching 37-38°C, particularly in late June and July. Coastal areas like Halong Bay and higher mountain regions like Sapa tend to be slightly cooler.

Although sporadic rain showers occur throughout the day, don’t let them dampen your spirits. These showers provide refreshing relief and enhance the natural beauty of the landscapes. However, be aware that heavy rainfall can occasionally lead to landslide, road closures and challenging riding conditions in certain areas.

• What to expect: As spring transitions into summer, Northern Vietnam is transformed into a vibrant landscape of lush greenery and cascading waterfalls. May to early June is an ideal time to explore North Vietnam by motorbike, as it’s the water-pouring season in the rice fields. Witness the stunning beauty of the sparkling green terraced fields reflecting the sky like watercolors.
• Perfect time for motorbike trip to: Cao Bang, Moc Chau, Sapa, Mu Cang Chai, Hoang Su Phi, Y Ty

Autumn in North Vietnam (September to November)

As autumn arrives in North Vietnam, temperatures begin to cool down. The skies are clear, and evenings can be pleasantly chilly.

September, the most comfortable month of the year, offers cooler temperatures, ranging from 24°C to 31°C in the Northeast and 17°C to 27°C in the Northwest.

October continues the cool and pleasant weather, often with light drizzles. Temperatures drop slightly compared to September, with minimal rainfall, creating a comfortable atmosphere.

• What to expect: September and October offer a breathtaking spectacle in North Vietnam as the rice paddies turn golden and vibrant flowers bloom on the mountains.

Enjoy panoramic views of rice terraces and charming villages at every turn. Witness the locals celebrating the bountiful rice harvest and the culmination of a year’s hard work. The fields come alive with traditional farming practices that have been passed down through generations.

• Perfect time for motorbike trip to: Sapa, Mu Cang Chai, Ha Giang, Hoang Su Phi, Mai Chau, Pu Luong

Winter in North Vietnam (December to January)

Winter in North Vietnam is characterized by harsh weather conditions, making it the coldest and driest season in the region. Temperatures plummet to around 15°C and below, especially in the northwestern areas where frost, icy mist are common.

In December, temperatures in North Vietnam typically range from 21°C during the day to 15°C at night. However, as you venture further north or into mountainous regions, temperatures can drop significantly, sometimes reaching sub-zero levels with frost and snow.

January is the driest month in the North, with minimal rainfall and low humidity levels of around 68%. However, there’s still a chance of rain.

• What to expect: January is also the time to witness the stunning wild peach blossoms in Mu Cang Chai, Sapa, and Ha Giang. In some years, these blooms may start to bloom later, potentially in February or March.
• Perfect time for motorbike trip to: Sapa, Mu Cang Chai, Ha Giang

Due to the high altitude, weather conditions in North Vietnam can be unpredictable, often shifting rapidly from hot to cold, cloudy to rainy within minutes. Fog can significantly reduce visibility, so staying informed about weather conditions is crucial. Always check the weather forecast or consult with Vietnam Bikers Mates before embarking on your adventure to North Vietnam by motorbike.

What To Expect: North Vietnam By Motorbike?

The North of Vietnam can be divided into three sections. “Ha Giang,” “The Northeast,” and “The Northwest.”

Ha Giang by Motorbike

Once a remote borderland, Ha Giang has gained legendary status among adventure riders. Its iconic Ha Giang Loop offers breathtaking landscapes, including winding mountain roads, terraced rice fields, and limestone pinnacles.

Home to over a dozen distinct ethnic groups, Ha Giang offers a unique cultural experience. While tourism has increased, the region still retains its off-the-beaten-track charm. The road conditions have improved and tourist services have proliferated.

Ha Giang offers various loop options, allowing for shorter trips without committing to long hours on the motorbike. This flexibility makes it easy to tailor your adventure to your preferences and time constraints.

Most independent riders begin and end their journeys in Ha Giang City. While the main loop can be completed in 3 days, starting from Hanoi and exploring scenic side routes and off-the-beaten-track destinations can easily extend your trip to a week or two.

Northeast Vietnam by Motorbike

The northeastern provinces of Cao Bang, Lang Son, and Bac Kan offer some of the best motorbiking experiences in North Vietnam. With their limestone karsts, lush forests, misty mountains, and winding rivers and majestic waterfall and caves, these regions provide a stunning backdrop for your adventure to North Vietnam by motorbike.

The region boasts a growing network of well-paved back roads and national highways, making it easy to explore. Tourist traffic is minimal, locals are friendly, and the food is delicious and hearty. With plenty of opportunities to venture off the beaten path, you’ll experience a genuine sense of adventure.

For those seeking a coastal getaway, Halong Bay and Cat Ba Island are within easy reach. These stunning destinations offer crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches. A cruise through these areas can be a fantastic addition to your Northeast Vietnam motorbike adventure.

Northwest Vietnam by Motorbike

The Northeast region offers a rugged beauty with majestic mountains, challenging off-road paths, and picturesque rice terraces. However, the roads can be poor and rough with frequent landslides, making it a less traveled area.

Places you see include Mai Chau, Moc Chau, Ta Xua, Y Ty, Sapa, Bac Ha, Mu Cang Chai, etc.

Many independent riders choose to start their motorbike journey in Sapa, a popular tourist destination with ample motorbike rental options. The Northwest region’s entry and exit points from Hanoi can be lengthy and less exciting, making Sapa a convenient starting point.

In regions beyond Sapa, many locals may not be familiar with interacting with foreign tourists, despite offering homestays. English is limited, making communication can be difficult.

How Many Days for North Vietnam By Motorbike

For Ha Giang, for short-term travelers, we offer carefully designed routes lasting 5-6 days to explore the highlights of Ha Giang. To maximize your time, we focus on some of the best routes and authentic experiences.

If you have more time, consider extending your trip by connecting Ha Giang with other regions in the Northeast or Northwest. This allows you to explore a wider range of landscapes and cultural experiences in 8-12 days.

Exploring the Northeast and Northwest typically takes 5-7 days.

Motorbike Routes in Northern Vietnam

Here are some of the best routes to explore the highlights of North Vietnam by motorbike

The limestone route

• Duration: 3 days
• Route: Hanoi – Son La – Mai Chau – Pu Luong – Ninh Binh – Hanoi
• Highlights: Ta Xua peak, limestone peaks, lush valleys, terraced rice fields, minority villages
• Tour Itinerary: the limestone route

Ha Giang route (for short term riders)

• Duration: 5 -6 days
• Route: Hanoi – Ba Be national park – Meo Vac – Dong Van – Ha Giang – Thac Ba lake – Hanoi
• Highlights:  limestone karsts, deep gorges, remote borderlands, lake, rivers, minority villages, mountain passes
• Tour Itinerary: Ha Giang Route 5 Days, 6 Days.

The harvest route

• Duration: 8 days
• Route: Hanoi – Phu Tho – Son La – Mu Cang Chai – Sapa – Ha Giang – Ba Be – Thai Nguyen – Hanoi
• Highlights: rice terraces, lush valleys, limestone karsts, deep gorges, remote borderlands, lake, rivers, minority villages, mountain passes
• Tour Itinerary: the harvest route

Ha Giang and Northeast route

• Duration: 8 days
• Route: Hanoi – Phu Tho – Son La – Ha Giang – Cao Bang – Lang Son – Halong – Hanoi
• Highlights: limestone karsts, minority villages, majestic waterfalls, remote borders, mountain passes, mountains, lakes, rivers, Cat Ba island
• Tour Itinerary: Ha Giang and Northeast Route

North Vietnam full highlights route

• Duration: 10 days
• Route: Hanoi – Phu Tho – Son La – Mu Cang Chai – Sapa – Ha Giang – Ba Be – Cao Bang – Thai Nguyen – Hanoi
• Highlights: rice terraces, lush valleys, limestone karsts, deep gorges, remote borderlands, lake, rivers, minority villages, mountain passes
• Tour Itinerary: North Vietnam Full Highlights

North Vietnam ride and cruise

• Duration: 12 days
• Route: Hanoi – Yen Bai – Son La – Mu Cang Chai – Sapa – Ha Giang – Ba Be – Thai Nguyen – Hanoi – Halong
• Highlights: rice terraces, lush valleys, limestone karsts, deep gorges, remote borderlands, lake, rivers, minority villages, mountain passes, Lan Ha Bay
• Tour Itinerary: North Vietnam ride and cruise

Travel Tips For Motorbiking in North Vietnam

Road safety

Riding in Vietnam presents unique challenges due to its traffic conditions, diverse terrain, and unpredictable weather.

To ensure a safe and enjoyable journey, it’s essential to understand the local traffic rules and be prepared for potential hazards. Check our blog Road Safety For Riding In Vietnam 2024 to familiarize yourself with potential hazards, the local traffic laws and tips for motobiking in North Vietnam

Accommodation

• Homestays offer a more authentic local experience and can be a great option for budget travelers.
• Book in advance: Especially during peak tourist seasons, it’s advisable to book accommodations in advance.

Read more about Accommodation and What to Expect in Motorbike Tours.

Learn local etiquette

• Engage with local community: In a family home, try to help out with the cooking, working in the fields, and playing with the local children, or dressing up in the local costumes. The more you participate the richer the experience. Just remember to ask politely.
• Act respectful: Always show respect for your hosts and the local community. This includes removing your shoes before entering the house and following proper dining etiquette.
• Dinning etiquettes: Eating is one of the daily routines in your stay. When you have meals with Vietnamese locals, you have to share foods with others on the same plates and bowls, which is called “family share”.

You might be familiar with chopsticks, but the host is very willing to guide you on this. If one picks up some food from the common for you, don’t be shocked but smile respectfully because this is a sign of close relationship.

• Learn some basic Vietnamese Phrase: A little effort to learn some basic Vietnamese phrases can go a long way in showing your appreciation and making connections.

FAQ about Motorbiking in North

1. Where does the motorbike trip start and end?

All of our motorbike trips in North Vietnam start and end in Hanoi.

2. How many miles can I expect to cover per day?

The number of miles you can cover per day depends on various factors, including your motorbike skill, the terrain, and weather conditions. On average, you can expect to cover around 200 kilometers (124 miles) per day.

3. What level of motorbike skill is required for North Vietnam?
   Ha Giang and Northeast: These regions are generally suitable for riders with some experience, even beginners.Northwest Vietnam: This region is more challenging and may not be suitable for complete beginners.
4. Choosing the Right Motorcycle for Your North Vietnam by Motorbike

Honda motorcycles are renowned for their off-road performance and durability, making them excellent choices for adventures in North Vietnam. With their powerful engines, strong frames, long-travel suspension, and dual-sport tires, Honda bikes are designed to conquer diverse terrains, from dirt roads to rocky hills and muddy fields. Read more about why we use Honda for Vietnam off road motorbike tours

We understand that a successful adventure motorbike tour hinges on having reliable equipment and motorbikes. That’s why we take pride in maintaining a meticulously inspected and serviced fleet of bikes from renowned brands likeYamaha and Honda. All our motorcycles are in excellent condition, and regular inspected and maintained ensuring you can focus on the thrill of the ride without worrying about breakdowns.

Explore our fleet today!

North Vietnam offers an unforgettable motorbike adventure, combining stunning landscapes, challenging terrain, and rich cultural experiences. With proper planning, preparation using our guide to North Vietnam by motorbike, and a sense of adventure, you can embark on an epic journey through this captivating region.