Top 7 Hanoi to Cao Bang Motorbike Routes in 2024

Recently, Cao Bang has emerged as a prominent tourism destination in North Vietnam. While motorbike tours to Cao Bang are familiar to both local and international tourists, Vietnamese riders, with no language barriers, can readily seek directions for their journey. Conversely, foreigners may encounter challenges in communicating with locals, especially if they lose their way to Cao Bang. To address this issue, Motorcycle Tours of Vietnam presents the ultimate guide on navigating the Hanoi to Cao Bang motorbike routes to help you along the way.

Why should you choose the motorbike route from Hanoi to Cao Bang?

Choosing one of the recommended “Hanoi to Cao Bang motorbike routes” for your North Vietnam motorbike tour promises a captivating and enriching travel experience. The journey from Hanoi to Cao Bang is filled with stunning natural beauty and rich cultural charm, making it an ideal choice for adventurers. Here are some compelling reasons to opt for this scenic route:

• Safety & Landscape diversity: The route unfolds a diverse tapestry of landscapes, from the bustling urban scenes of Hanoi to the serene countryside and eventually the mountainous terrain near Cao Bang. There could be some roads to ride from Hanoi to Cao Bang but choosing one of our recommended motorbike route from Hanoi to Cao Bang is the smart choice to enjoy the best landscapes of the area and especially to ride off the busy and dangerous roads to keep you safe.
  
• Cultural immersion: Along the way, you’ll encounter various ethnic communities and villages, providing an opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Vietnamese culture. The route is dotted with cultural landmarks, markets, and traditional villages that showcase the country’s heritage.
• Panoramic mountain views: As you approach Cao Bang, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic, with towering mountains and lush greenery dominating the landscape. The winding roads offer panoramic views, creating a picturesque setting for motorcycle enthusiasts and nature lovers.
• Local cuisine exploration: The journey allows for the exploration of local culinary delights. From street food in Hanoi to regional specialties in towns along the route, you can savor a variety of Vietnamese dishes, adding a gastronomic dimension to your adventure.
• Freedom and flexibility: Traveling by motorbike provides a unique sense of freedom and flexibility. You can stop at any point along the route, take detours, and explore hidden gems that might be missed when using other modes of transportation.

The route is abundant in natural beauty and cultural allure

Overall, the Hanoi to Cao Bang motorbike routes promise not only a transportation route but also a comprehensive travel experience, blending beautiful scenery, cultural discovery and thrills on the open road. 

Top 7 Motorbike routes from Hanoi to Cao Bang for riders

Route 1: Hanoi, Bac Kan and Cao Bang

Embarking on the Hanoi to Cao Bang motorbike routes, you will encounter the fastest way to reach Cao Bang by initially directing yourself towards Thai Nguyen via QL3. As you progress towards the Northern region, the road gradually narrows and takes on a more winding character. Therefore, you should reach Bac Kan by lunchtime.

Upon arriving in Bac Kan, begin your motorbike journey towards Cao Bang. Exercise caution at the point of reaching Na Phac, making sure to make a right turn onto QL3 instead of turning towards the 279. Subsequently, proceed along QL3 and you will relish the scenic beauty of mountainous landscapes throughout the entirety of the journey.

Route 2: Hanoi, Lang Son and Cao Bang

To make the most of this lengthy route, leave Hanoi early, as the trip to Cao Bang may take more than a day. Follow QL1A to Bac Giang, then head towards Chi Lang in Lang Son province and Dong Dang. From Dong Dang, take NH4A straight to Dong Khe.

Route 3: Hanoi, Bac Son and Cao Bang

Start your journey on the Hanoi to Cao Bang motorbike routes by taking Highway 1 and passing through Bac Ninh before heading to Bac Giang. Take a break in Bac Giang for some rest and lunch. Turn into DT 243 and follow this road until you reach Quinh Son Village and Bac Son Valley. Continue the trip by passing Dong Khe and eventually reaching Cao Bang.

Next, turn onto QL1b to Binh Gia, and proceed through DT 226 to That Khe via Highway 4A.

Route 4: Hanoi, Ba Be and Cao Bang

Embarking on a journey on the Hanoi to Cao Bang motorbike routes from Hanoi to Ba Be and Cao Bang involves traversing diverse landscapes and picturesque routes. Start your adventure by leaving Hanoi, heading northward on QL3B toward Thai Nguyen. Upon reaching Thai Nguyen, continue on QL1A, passing Bac Kan, and eventually reaching Ba Be National Park.

In Ba Be, take the time to explore the stunning natural beauty, including the Ba Be Lake and the lush surroundings. When ready to continue, depart from Ba Be, traveling northeast on DT254 and QL3N to reach Cao Bang. Consider this leg of your journey as part of the captivating Cao Bang motorcycle tour, where each stretch unfolds new scenic wonders.

As you approach Cao Bang, the terrain becomes more mountainous and scenic. Enjoy the ride through QL34, capturing the beauty of the landscapes, and savor the unique charm of the region. This route provides a captivating journey, showcasing the rich cultural and natural tapestry that northern Vietnam has to offer.

Route 5: Hanoi, Dong Khe and Cao Bang

Depart from Hanoi and head northeast on the Hanoi to Cao Bang motorbike routes, passing through Bac Giang and Bac Ninh. As you travel further, the route leads you to Thai Nguyen on QL3B.

Upon reaching Thai Nguyen, continue on QL3 to Bac Kan, where you can take a moment to rest and explore if desired. From Bac Kan, travel on DT243, passing Quinh Son village and Bac Son Valley, creating an opportunity to enjoy the scenic beauty of the region. Then, continue the journey northeast on QL4B to Dong Khe – a place with winding roads and picturesque surroundings.

Leaving Dong Khe, proceed on QL4B towards Cao Bang, experiencing the transition in landscapes as you venture into mountainous terrain. Along QL34, relish the breathtaking views of the mountains, making your way towards Cao Bang.

Read more: Top 4 best Ha Noi to Ninh Binh Motorbike Routes in 2024

Summary of stops when traveling from Hanoi to Cao Bang motorbike routes

Bac Son

While en route to Bac Son, consider visiting notable attractions such as Mong Luc Temple, Bac Son Flower Valley, or Tam Canh Pass. Once in Bac Son, plan to stay overnight in Quai Son village, where you can explore various homestay options like Bac Son Homestay or Duong Cong Chich Homestay.

Choose Bac Son Homestay or Duong Cong Chich Homestay

Lang Son

During your stay in Lang Son along the Hanoi to Cao Bang motorbike routes, make sure not to miss key attractions such as Dong Kinh or Ky Lua markets, Tam Thanh Cave, and the FlagPole. When choosing accommodations for rest, consider reputable options like Song Long or Happy Hotel.

This route is one of the most picturesque routes in Northern Vietnam Motorbike Tours

Bac Kan

When in Bac Kan, you have the option to decide between staying at a hotel or opting for a homestay. Noteworthy accommodations include highly-rated establishments like Hotel Mountain States or Green Hotel.

Savor the picturesque beauty of mountainous landscapes throughout the entire trip

Dong Khe

Much like That Khe, Dong Khe is a small town that played a significant role during the resistance war against the French, earning the designation as the site of the “Battle of Dong Khe.” If you happen to deviate from your path, you may come across surviving military structures. Consider staying overnight in accommodations such as Mai Hien Hostel or Thach An Hotel and indulge in local cuisine at nearby restaurants.

Delight in the breathtaking mountain views along QL34 on your way to Cao Bang

That Khe

Situated along the Hanoi to Cao Bang motorbike routes in That Khe, a small town with a population of 5000 people, you’ll find limited options for hotels and dining. However, noteworthy overnight accommodations include establishments like Bao Duong 2 or Hai Van Hostel.

You will find limited hotel and dining options in That Khe small town

Ba Be Lake

While staying in Lang Son, make sure not to miss the must-visit attractions such as Ba Be Lake, Dong Kinh Market, Ky Lua Market, the Flag Pole, and Tam Thanh Cave. When choosing accommodations for your rest, consider reliable options like Happy Hotel or Song Long Hotel.

This route offers the diverse cultural and natural beauty of northern Vietnam

In summary, this comprehensive guide provides essential information about Hanoi to Cao Bang motorbike routes. For additional insights, you can also refer to the feedback from riders on TripAdvisor regarding their experiences with the Vietnam Motorbike Tour Expert.