Mong Cai – Cao Bang – Ha Giang Mountain Bike challenge 14 days

Meeting informations
Meeting Point: Hanoi Opera House
Meeting Address: 1 Trang Tien, Phan Chu Trinh, Hoan Kiem, Ha Noi
Meeting Time: 09:00 (30 minutes before departure)

Itinerary
On this day, as you step into the lively city of Hanoi, it marks the grand start of the Mountain Bike Challenge. This moment is about mentally and physically preparing for the epic journey ahead, filled with excitement and readiness to face new challenges. This is not just a journey—it’s an exploration that pushes the boundaries of self-discovery.

Activities: Travel and preparation for the Mountain Bike Challenge
Experience: Massage (not included), Vietnamese beer.

Highlights
• Exploring the China-Vietnam border
• The first stage of the mountain bike challenge
• Visiting border villages with rich history and unique cultural traditions

Itinerary
Starting from Mong Cai, this route traces the China-Vietnam border, revealing stunning landscapes and offering emotional experiences that can only be felt where two nations meet. As you travel, you will witness historical remnants and explore villages with rich cultural heritage. This route is not just a physical path but a living narrative connecting two countries.

Activities: Border exploration in Mong Cai, experiencing unpaved rural roads, visiting the China-Vietnam border crossing
Experience: Local food and coffee tastings.

Highlights
• Visit Tay ethnic villages.
• Journey along scenic unpaved village roads and paved rural paths.
• Engage with locals living harmoniously with nature and experience their culture.

Itinerary
This course takes you through Tay ethnic villages in Northern Vietnam, where you will experience their traditional way of life firsthand. Feel the warmth of the Tay people’s smiles and their welcoming spirit as you ride through picturesque countryside villages. This journey is a true blend of nature and culture, offering a peaceful and healing experience. The charm of riding on unpaved roads adds a unique touch to this adventure.

Activities: Tay ethnic village visits, riding along unpaved trails
Experience: Local traditional cuisine tasting.

Highlights
• Visit the historic Dong Dang train station, famously visited by Kim Jong-il.
• Explore traditional village paths.
• Experience vastly different natural environments on opposite sides of the road.

• Discover historically significant locations along the east-west route.

Itinerary
This journey departs from Lang Son and takes you to Dong Dang Station, a site rich in historical significance. Once visited by Kim Jong-il, this station provides an opportunity to reflect on the Vietnam-North Korea relationship. As you explore the traditional village paths, you’ll uncover hidden stories preserved within the walls of these villages. One of the most fascinating aspects of this course is the striking contrast in natural landscapes on either side of the road.

Activities: Exploring the historic Dong Dang train station.
Experience: Enjoying a relaxing coffee at a local cafe.

Highlights
• Side through the stunning landscapes of Cao Bang province.
• Witness Ban Gioc Waterfall, one of the four largest waterfalls in the world.
• Experience the natural beauty while cycling along both unpaved and paved roads.

Itinerary
This day’s journey will take you through the breathtaking natural scenery of Cao Bang, leading towards the majestic Ban Gioc Waterfall. As you navigate the challenging roads, you will be rewarded with the sight of this hidden gem in Northern Vietnam. The grandeur and tranquility of the waterfall make this route an unforgettable experience.

Activities: Exploring Ban Gioc Waterfall.
Experience: Rafting at Ban Gioc Waterfall, visiting the China-Vietnam border, horse-riding photo opportunities (optional).

Highlights
• Explore Nguom Ngao Cave.
• Discover God’s Eye Mountain.
• Experience the thrilling downhill at Ma Phuc Pass.

Itinerary
On this day, you will venture into the mystical natural beauty of Northern Vietnam. Explore the deep labyrinth of Nguom Ngao Cave and traverse the majestic God’s Eye Mountain, feeling awe at the sacred beauty of nature. The downhill ride along Ma Phuc Pass will offer an exhilarating experience, allowing you to flow seamlessly with the natural landscape.

Activities: Explore Nguom Ngao Cave, God’s Eye Mountain, Ma Phuc Pass, and rural roads.
Experience: Massage (not included), night market visits, and enjoying a coffee or beer with locals at a riverside cafe.

Highlights
• Visit the historical Pac Bo site and Lenin Stream, where Ho Chi Minh prepared for Vietnam’s independence.
• Reflect on the historical and cultural significance of the Cao Bang region.
• Ride through the expansive tobacco plantations, enjoying the rural landscapes.

• Experience the daily lives of the Tay ethnic people in the mountainous areas.

Itinerary
This course takes you on a special journey, tracing the path once walked by Ho Chi Minh at the historical Pac Bo site and Lenin Stream. As you pass through the vast tobacco fields and Tay ethnic villages, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the historical legacy and cultural significance of the Cao Bang region. This ride is more than just a cycling trip; it’s an enriching experience that connects you with the roots of Vietnam’s history and culture.

Activities: Visit Pac Bo relics, Lenin Stream, Tay villages
Experience: Traditional Vietnamese massage, visit a local market.

Highlights
• Conquer the 14 sharp turns of the Na Tenh Pass.
• Experience the thrilling 16 curves of the Coc Cha Pass downhill.
• Explore the rugged highlands of Northern Vietnam.

Itinerary
This course is one of the most challenging journeys, cutting through the rough mountainous terrain of Northern Vietnam. Riders will need endurance and determination to tackle the relentless 14 curves of the Na Tenh Pass, followed by the heart-pounding 16-turn descent of Coc Cha Pass. This day demands strong physical and mental fortitude from all riders, and only those who conquer the passes will feel the true sense of achievement at the summit.

Activities:  Na Tenh Pass, Coc Cha Pass
Experience: Visiting traditional markets, tasting street food.

Highlights
• Crossing the Khau Vai Pass and entering Ha Giang, considered the most beautiful province in Northern Vietnam.
• Witness the stunning scenery at Na Phong village, where the Nho Que and Gam Rivers converge.
• Experience the cultural and natural beauty of Northern Vietnam.

Itinerary
This course begins from Bao Lac and ascends the majestic Khau Vai Pass, leading riders into the breathtaking landscapes of Ha Giang province. Renowned for its striking mountain views, this route offers a unique blend of adventure, nature, and cultural immersion. As you reach Na Phong village, where the Nho Que and Gam Rivers merge, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of Northern Vietnam’s pristine natural beauty and distinct cultural charm.

Activities: Crossing Khau Vai Pass, exploring Na Phong village.
Experience: Meo Vac night market, local rice wine tasting.

Highlights
• Discover the stunning Ma Pi Leng Gorge with its towering karst cliffs and emerald green river.
• Explore the UNESCO Global Geopark, a world-renowned natural wonder.
• Enjoy breathtaking canyon riding along spectacular landscapes.

• Visit Ma Pi Leng Skywalk and the dramatic “Death Rock” cliff

Itinerary
This course is a journey through one of the most beautiful gorges in Northern Vietnam, Ma Pi Leng. Ride along the jade-green waters winding through the immense karst cliffs, immersing yourself in the awe-inspiring scenery of the gorge. The route takes you through the globally recognized UNESCO Geopark, a place of natural wonder and geological significance. Though short, this route is intense and thrilling, offering unforgettable views from the Ma Pi Leng Skywalk and the sheer cliffs of Death Rock. This course is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Activities: Happiness Road, Ma Pi Leng Gorge, Dong Van Karst Geopark, explore world heritage sites.
Experience: Massage or hair wash experience (not included), night market street food tasting, boat trip on the Nho Que River.

Highlights
• Journey to Lung Cu, the northernmost village in Vietnam.
• Overlook the China-Vietnam border.
• Visit the Lung Cu Flag Tower, a national symbol at Vietnam’s northernmost point.

• Explore Lolo ethnic minority villages.

Itinerary
Starting from Dong Van, this course heads towards Vietnam’s northernmost point, offering a memorable journey to the Lung Cu Flag Tower, which holds symbolic significance for the nation. From Lung Cu, gaze across the border into China and experience the vast and awe-inspiring landscapes that stretch beyond the horizon. Additionally, explore LoLo ethnic minority villages and delve deeply into Vietnam’s diverse cultural heritage.

Activities: Lung Cu exploration, border viewing, Lolo ethnic village, off-road experience.
Experience: Massage or hair wash at a local salon (optional), night market street food tour.

Highlights
• Explore the Don Cao Fortress, a historic relic from the French colonial era.
• Visit the hidden Mong Palace nestled in the picturesque valleys.
• Experience the Tham Ma Pass, a legendary route said to bring eternal love to couples who walk it together.

• Enjoy an exhilarating 20km Royal Downhill ride through mountainous terrain.

Itinerary
This schedule is steeped in the history and legends of Northern Vietnam. Start by visiting the Don Cao Fortress, a relic from the French colonial period, and the majestic Mong Palace, where the remnants of the past whisper stories of royal heritage. As you traverse the Tham Ma Pass, be enchanted by the legends surrounding this romantic path. Conclude the day with a 20km downhill descent that offers the thrill of speed and the grandeur of Vietnam’s mountainous landscape. This journey is a perfect blend of adrenaline, history, and natural beauty—a true adventure for thrill-seekers.

Activities: Visit Don Cao Fortress, Mong palace, Tham Ma Pass, downhill riding.
Experience: Nut shopping in front of the Mong palace.

Highlights
• Explore the legend of Nui Doi Mountain.
• Enjoy thrilling off-road trails and single tracks in the mountainous terrain.
• Challenge yourself on a daring mountain journey.

Itinerary
This schedule traverses the rugged mountainous terrain of Northern Vietnam, following the adventurous trail of Nui Doi Mountain’s legend. Riders will navigate unpaved forest roads and single tracks, embracing the thrill of challenging climbs and exhilarating descents that test their riding skills. The route also passes through traditional H’mong villages, offering a glimpse into their simple yet rich way of life. This is a perfect combination of adventure and cultural exploration, showcasing both the natural beauty and local traditions of the mountainous regions.

Activities: Mountainous off-road tracks, Twin Mountain, traditional H’mong villages.
Experience: Exploring the traditional market of Yen Minh.

Highlights
• Combining paved and unpaved roads.
• Stunning views while descending through Heaven’s Gate and Bac Sum Pass.
• Witness the daily lives of locals in hidden villages nestled deep within the karst limestone mountains.

Itinerary
This route, running from Tam Son to Ha Giang, offers a picturesque blend of mountain and village landscapes, navigating a combination of paved and unpaved roads. The scenic descent through Heaven’s Gate and Bac Sum Pass reveals majestic yet tranquil views. The path meanders through remote villages nestled deep within the limestone karst mountains, providing a unique opportunity to experience the authentic mountain culture of Northern Vietnam firsthand.

Activities: Bac Sum Pass, unpaved road cycling, downhill adventure.
Experience: Enjoy a cup of coffee at the summit while taking in the breathtaking views and capturing memorable photos of the stunning scenery.

Farewell and Return

• Morning & Breakfast: Disassemble and pack your bicycles after breakfast.
• Transfer to Hanoi: Travel back to Hanoi a private vehicle (approx. 6 hours). Bids farewell to the beautiful Ha Giang Route and head back to the capital.

Return guests to the original pickup point.

Your memorable cycling adventure has now come to an end. Thank you for choosing Campviet’s Mountain Bike challenge 14 days. Wish you a joyful and exciting experience in Vietnam!