10 days Hanoi to Luang Prabang - trip code APLV08
US$1990 (single room optional for US$340)
In keeping with the Grasshopper pioneering spirit, we are offering a new and improved version of our popular Northern Indochina Trail trip. The scenery is even more beautiful, the riding even more enjoyable and the places travelled even more remote.
Starting in Hanoi, the vibrant capital of Vietnam, we explore the surrounding countryside before setting off into the North West, through the picturesque valley of Mai Chau and over to the border with Laos. We visit the Vieng Xai caves, used by the communist Lao forces during the secret war. We continue through stunning scenery with limestone mountains, dense forests, and hill tribe communities. We have a chance for a trek around the Muang Ngoi area and we then kayak along the Nam Ou River towards Luang Prabang, world heritage listed city of temples and colonial-era French architecture. All this in an unforgettable ten day adventure!
Itinerary
Days 1-2 | Hanoi
After arriving in this bustling capital city with it's contrasting mish-mash of the very new and the very old, we take to the bikes to explore the countryside surrounding Hanoi where families have lived for generations in the same houses and farmed the same land.
Day 4 | Mai Chau
A drive takes you out of the city and up into the hills. We discover the picturesque valley of Mai Chau, home to Tai minority people and a great place for a ride on small trails with picture perfect views in every direction.
Days 5-6 | Cycle to Laos and the Vieng Xai caves
We ride through the hills of Vietnam and then onto Sam Neua in Laos. We make a side trip to the Ving Xai Caves where the Pathet Lao forces housed around twenty thousand people during the war.
Days 7-8 | Cycle to Nong Khiaw
We cycle some truly remote areas on road with minimal traffic and fantastic views as we weave our way through the hills to the beautiful little village of Nong Khiaw, wedged between dramatic limestone mountains, set by the Nam Ou River.
Days 9-10 | Nong Khiaw and Luang Prabang
We have a free day in this peaceful location by the river. For those who want to experience more, a trek in the Muang Ngoi area upstream is highly recommended. The next day we leave the bikes and kayak down the Nam Ou River to Luang Prabang and the end of the journey.
Facts and Information
Style
fully supported cycling
Grasshopper Leader
This tour will be lead by our experienced, charming and passionate Vietnamese and Lao cycling leaders who will be working hard to make your trip an unforgettable one. Ask us for your leaders name when you book and you can then read their profile so you know who you will be traveling with.
Meet the Grasshopper crew
Inclusions
support vehicle, cycling tour leader & guide, most meals, entry fees, kayaking
Group Size
minimum 2, maximum 14
Accommodation
5 nights comfortable hotel, 4 nights guesthouse
Meals Included
9 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 6 dinners
Days Cycling
5
Kilometres Cycled
approx 320km
Difficulty
moderate to difficult
Cycling Conditions
Roads are generally in good condition. The planned distances are achievable and none exceed 100km per day, however if you like a real challenge there is occasionally the option to have a longer ride with one of the support crew, while the group drive a section.
