Vietnam is a paradise for adventure seekers and motorcycle enthusiasts. With its rugged terrain, winding roads, and breathtaking landscapes, it offers some of the most thrilling motorbike routes in Southeast Asia. From the misty mountains of the north to the stunning coastal roads of the south, Vietnam’s motorbike routes are a must-see for anyone looking for an authentic and unforgettable experience.

In this article, we will take you on a journey through the top 8 motorbike routes in Vietnam. We will explore the scenic beauty, cultural richness, and hidden gems of each route, as well as providing practical tips and advice for your motorbike adventure. Whether you are a seasoned rider or a beginner, these routes offer something for everyone, and we guarantee that they will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. So, rev up your engines and let’s hit the road!

1. Hai Van Pass

Best motorbike routes in Vietnam - Hai Van Pass
Scenic Hai Van Pass, Central Vietnam

The Hai Van Pass is undoubtedly one of the most popular and iconic motorbike routes in Vietnam. Located between Hue and Da Nang, the Hai Van Pass offers breathtaking views of the East Sea, lush green mountains, and winding roads. The 20-kilometer pass has been featured in the popular television series “Top Gear” and is considered one of the most scenic drives in the world. The Hai Van Pass is also home to many historical sites, including the Hai Van Gate and the French-built Fortin de la Montagne.

The road is steep and winding, with hairpin turns and steep inclines, making it a challenging but rewarding ride. The scenery is breathtaking, with the sea on one side and the mountains on the other. Be sure to stop at the top of the pass to take in the panoramic views and snap some photos.

Easy Riders Vietnam organize daily tours from Hue to Hoi An or vice versa through this spectacular pass.

2. Khe Sanh to Phong Nha Route

Motorbike routes in Vietnam - the Ho Chi Minh trail
The Ho Chi Minh Trail is one of the most beautiful ride in Vietnam

The Khe Sanh to Phong Nha Route is a challenging but incredibly rewarding motorbike route in Vietnam. The 200-kilometer route will take you through the rugged terrain of the Truong Son Mountains and the famous Ho Chi Minh Trail. You’ll pass through dense forests, winding rivers, stunning waterfalls and historic sites from the Vietnam War.

The road is generally in good condition, but there are some rough patches and steep inclines. The highlight of the trip is the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, which is home to some of the most spectacular caves in the world. Be sure to take a guided tour of the caves to fully appreciate their beauty.

3. Ha Giang Loop

Ha Giang Easy Rider Motorbike Tours Vietnam
Thrilling Tham Ma Pass, Ha Giang

The Ha Giang Loop is a 300 kilometer route through the mountainous Ha Giang province in northern Vietnam. The route takes you through stunning landscapes, including terraced rice paddies, rocky cliffs, and traditional villages. Along the way, you’ll see the Dong Van Karst Plateau, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

It is often described as the most spectacular ride in the country and takes travelers at least 3 to 4 days to complete. However, this route is not for beginners. Expect hundreds of hairpin turns, mountain scenery, and friendly local hill tribes such as the H’Mong people, who inhabit this area. Multiple viewpoints are scattered throughout for stunning panoramas, making it a challenging but exhilarating ride. Check out our Easy Rider Ha Giang Loop to learn more about the route as well as what to explore during the ride.

4. O Quy Ho Pass

Best Motorbike Routes in Vietnam - O Qui Ho Pass,
Picturesque view of O Qui Ho Pass

The O Qui Ho Pass is a 50 kilometer stretch of road that runs through the Hoang Lien Son mountain range in northern Vietnam. The pass offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, including the famous Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina.

The road is narrow and winding, with steep inclines and sharp turns, making it a challenging but rewarding ride. The scenery is some of the most beautiful in Vietnam, with breathtaking views at every turn. Be sure to stop at the top of the pass to take in the panoramic views and snap some photos.

5. Dalat to Nha Trang Route

Best motorbike routes in Vietnam - Dalat to Nha Trang
Stunning mountain pass between Dalat and Nha Trang

The Dalat to Nha Trang route is a scenic 140-kilometer route that takes you through the rolling hills and beautiful countryside of the Central Highlands. You’ll ride through winding roads, pine forests, small villages, and stunning waterfalls before reaching the coastal city of Nha Trang.

Along the way, you’ll pass through the picturesque town of Dalat, known for its cooler climate, beautiful scenery, and French colonial architecture.

The road is generally in good condition, with some steep inclines and hairpin turns. This route is a favorite route among locals, connecting two popular travel destinations that seem a world apart: slow-paced, cool Da Lat in the mountains, and hot buzzing Nha Trang on the coast. The pass takes around five hours to complete, with twists through mountains and forests on each side. You’ll find awesome pitstops along the way to get some food or coffee.

6. Dalat and The Central Highlands Loop

Ride the best of Vietnam with Easy Riders
Ride Dalat and the Central Highlands loop is an exciting experience.

Dalat and the Central Highlands Loop is a 500-kilometter route through the stunning landscapes of the Central Highlands of Vietnam. The route takes you through lush jungles, pine forests, tea plantations, and traditional villages. Along the way, you’ll see stunning waterfalls, including the Dray Sap Waterfall, Elephant Waterfall and the Pongour Waterfall.

The road is generally in good condition, but there are some steep inclines and hairpin turns. The highlight of the trip is the city of Dalat, known for its beautiful French colonial architecture and stunning scenery. It’s definitely one of the 8 best motorbike routes in Vietnam you shouldn’t miss!

7. Kon Tum to Hoi An/ Da Nang Route

Ho Chi Minh Trail - Kon Tum to Hoi An
Beautiful road from Kon Tum to Da Nang/ Hoi An

The Kon Tum to Hoi An Route is a lesser-known motorbike route in Vietnam but is no less stunning than the others. The 300-kilometer route will take you through the Central Highlands of Vietnam, where you’ll see beautiful coffee and rubber plantations, small villages, stunning waterfalls and through lush forests. Along the way, you’ll see historic sites from the Vietnam War, including the Dak To and Charlie Hill battlefields.

The road is generally in good condition, but there are some rough patches and steep inclines. The highlight of the trip is also the ancient town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Be sure to take a stroll through the narrow streets and admire the beautifully preserved architecture.

8. The Coastal Route

Motorbike Routes in Vietnam - Coastal Route
Stunning coastal route in Vinh Hy, Phan Rang

The Coastal Route is a 1,500 kilometer route that runs along the eastern coast of Vietnam, from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi. The route offers stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding mountains. Along the way, you’ll pass through traditional fishing villages, historic cities, and beautiful beaches. The road is generally in good condition, but there are some sections that are narrow and winding.

The highlight of the trip is the beautiful coastal scenery, with endless stretches of sandy beaches and turquoise waters. Be sure to drive through these beautiful beaches: Mui Ne, Ninh Chu, Cam Ranh, Nha Trang, Dai Lanh, Qui Nhon and Lang Co.

Easy Riders Vietnam - Saigon to Nha Trang Self-ride Tour
Scenic ride from Mui Ne Beach to Cam Ranh Bay

In conclusion, Vietnam offers some of the most beautiful and challenging motorbike routes in the world. From the steep mountain passes to the stunning coastline, there is something for every type of rider. When planning your trip, be sure to keep safety in mind and be prepared for a long journey. With so many routes to choose from, we’re sure you will have an unforgettable adventure in Vietnam.

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