Ninh Binh- PuLuong mountain bike
ninhbinh-puluong-maichau : Best mountain bike scenery
Embarking on a mountain biking adventure from Ninh Binh to Mai Chau via Pu Luong is a journey that encapsulates the natural beauty, rich culture, and challenging terrains of northern Vietnam. This route takes cyclists through a mosaic of landscapes, from the stunning karst formations of Ninh Binh to the lush, terraced fields of Pu Luong and the picturesque valley of Mai Chau.
Ninh Binh: The Starting Point
Ninh Binh, often referred to as “Halong Bay on Land,” is the perfect starting point for this mountain biking journey. The region is renowned for its dramatic limestone karsts, winding rivers, and serene rice paddies. As you set off from Ninh Binh, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking scenery that sets the tone for the adventure ahead. The area is relatively flat, making it an ideal warm-up for the more challenging terrains that lie ahead.
Riding Through Pu Luong
After leaving Ninh Binh, the route heads towards Pu Luong Nature Reserve, a hidden gem that offers some of the most spectacular landscapes in Vietnam. Pu Luong is characterized by its verdant mountains, terraced rice fields, and traditional Thai and Muong villages. The terrain here is more challenging, with gravel roads, dirt paths, and rocky trails that test your biking skills.
Cycling through Pu Luong, you’ll experience a mix of uphill climbs and exhilarating descents. The area’s remote location means you’ll often find yourself cycling along quiet, unspoiled trails, with only the sounds of nature to accompany you. One of the highlights of this section is the chance to see the majestic water wheels and scenic waterfalls that dot the landscape.
Cultural Encounters
One of the most enriching aspects of this mountain biking route is the opportunity to interact with the local ethnic communities. In Pu Luong, you’ll come across traditional stilt houses and have the chance to meet the Thai and Muong people, who are known for their warm hospitality. Many tours include overnight stays in homestays, allowing you to experience the local way of life, enjoy home-cooked meals, and learn about the customs and traditions of these communities.
Scenic Beauty of Mai Chau
The final leg of the journey takes you to Mai Chau, a peaceful valley surrounded by green mountains. Mai Chau is renowned for its stunning scenery and relaxed atmosphere, making it a perfect destination to unwind after the rigors of mountain biking. The valley is dotted with traditional White Thai villages, where you can explore the local culture and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
Cycling into Mai Chau, you’ll be greeted by panoramic views of rice paddies and lush hills. The roads here are a mix of paved and gravel paths, with some sections offering challenging off-road tracks. As you ride through the valley, you’ll pass by picturesque villages, vibrant markets, and friendly locals who are always ready with a smile.
Day 1: Ninh Binh – Pu Luong (48-55 km, gravel road) (Meals: L, D)
- 8:00 AM: Meet at your hotel. Transfer from Ninh Binh with a 2-hour drive.
- Cycling: Bike on dirt roads, gravel paths, rock gardens, and trails (42-55 km).
- Lunch: Stop for lunch along the way.
- Continue Cycling: Continue cycling to the village.
- Evening: Dinner and overnight stay in a homestay.
Day 2: Pu Luong – Mai Chau (35 km gravel road, 15 km off-road) (Meals: B, L, D)
- Morning: Start with a hearty breakfast before hitting the gravel road.
- Cycling: Cycle 36 km on paved roads to warm up, then embark on a 15 km off-road adventure on single-track trails.
- Descent: Enjoy a thrilling descent on a paved road leading to Mai Chau.
- Evening: Dinner and overnight stay in a homestay in Mai Chau.
Day 3: Mai Chau mountain bike ( B,L, D )
- Morning: Embark on a scenic adventure with a transfer to the starting point by car. then riding gravel and off road
- Cycling: Begin with a 15 km drive to a mountain pass, then enjoy a downhill bike ride on a jeep track, single track (approximately 15 km) through minority villages and terraced rice fields.
- Continue biking on 25 km gravel road to village where we spend a night
Day 4: Mai Chau – Hanoi (25 km gravel road, 15 km off-road) (Meals: B, L)
- Morning: Embark on a scenic adventure with a transfer to the starting point by car.
- Cycling: Begin with a 15 km drive to a mountain pass, then enjoy a downhill bike ride on a jeep track (approximately 15 km) through minority villages and terraced rice fields.
- Afternoon: Transfer back to Hanoi by car.
Price:
- Normal Mountain Bike (Cannondale Scalpel 26′ and 29′): $580 USD per person (minimum 2 people booking)
- Electric Bike (Specialized Turbo Tero): $710 USD per person
What’s Included:
- English-speaking local cycling guide
- Accommodations in homestays as mentioned
- Meals as mentioned (B=3 breakfasts, L=4 lunches, D=3 dinners)
- Sightseeing and activities as noted in the itinerary
- Ground transportation
- Additional guides where necessary
- Entrance fees and permits
- Cannondale full suspension bike
- Specialized Turbo Tero electric bike
Additional Information:
- Total Biking Distance: Approximately 140 km
- Number of Cycling Days: 1 full day, 2 half days
- Average Daily Distance: 40-47 km
- Off-Road Percentage: 45%
- Max. Altitude: 900 meters
- Road Surface: Mix of broken roads, fine roads, single-track, and rough tracks. Some off-road riding skills are advantageous. Ensure you are confident in your physical condition and bike handling skills.
- Support: Transit vans converted to take bikes and bikers.
- Group Size: Minimum 2, Maximum 12
- Accommodation: 2 nights in homestays. All accommodations have A/C or fans, hot water, and shared facilities.
- Food: All meals as mentioned and snacks.
- Nutrition: We recommend bringing nutrition such as Hammer Gel energy gels and Clif Bar energy bars for sustained energy and post-workout recovery.
We offer unforgettable trekking Vietnam and walking holidays in Northeast and Northwest Vietnam, as well as thrilling cave expeditions in Phong Nha.
