Vientiane:

Arrival day

Ease into your adventure with a relaxed morning—explore markets, visit museums, or enjoy quiet moments at local temples. Savor a coffee and take in the lively atmosphere of Laos. At noon, we’ll meet at the hotel for a bike fitting and a leisurely ride to Mini Makphet Restaurant, run by Friends International. Over lunch, you’ll hear about their impactful vocational training programs.
Next, we visit the COPE Visitors Centre to learn about the Indo-China War’s legacy and COPE’s vital work supporting mobility for landmine victims.
As the sun sets, we’ll gather by the Mekong River for a refreshing drink before enjoying a Lao-style BBQ dinner—a perfect close to an unforgettable day.

Inc. Meals: Dinner
Cycling: NA
Transit: Airport transfer
Hotel: Urbanite Hotel (or equivalent)
NGO’s: Friends Intl | COPE

Vang Vieng

Blue Lagoons and Sunrise Balloons

Prepare for a thrilling 31km cycling journey through Vang Vieng’s breathtaking landscapes. Along the route, we’ll stop at Blue Lagoons 2 and 3, where you can take a refreshing swim and enjoy lunch from local food stalls. Discover the historic Patong Cave Temple, nestled in stunning surroundings and rich with cultural significance. The mostly dirt-road trail is scenic and manageable, featuring 286m of incline and decline for an enjoyable ride. Back in town, the evening is yours to relax, explore, or celebrate the day’s adventures. For a unique experience, opt for a hot air balloon ride at sunrise or sunset, weather permitting.

Inc. Meals: Breakfast
Optional Extra: Hot air ballooning
Cycling: 31km  +264m/-264m
Transit:  None
Hotel: Silver Naga Hotel (or equivalent) 

Kasi

Sunrise trek to Kasi

If you’re up for it, there’s the option to go on a sunrise hike to Pha Ngern Viewpoint for epic views across the surrounding mountains. It’s not without its challenges but well worth the reward. We’ll allow four hours for the return trip, starting at 5am. Or you can always sleep in.
The hike comes with a word of warning, it’s not for the faint hearted. The path can be steep and slippery and not for novice hikers.
There is every opportunity to ride from Vang Vieng to Kasi, where we’ll spend the evening. The total distance is 62km on a paved but patchy road.

Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Cycling: 62km +844 m / -674 m
Transit: Optional
Hotel: Kasi Guest House

Phonsavan:

Cycling mountains

Today, we’re heading to Phonsavan, with a total distance of 160km to cover. The first 110km will be by van, a scenic drive that takes just over three hours.
From the small village of Muang Souy, we’ll hop on our bikes for the final 50km, cycling over gently undulating paved roads. Please note, this route is a key transport thoroughfare, so it can be busier at times. We aim to arrive in Phonsavan by mid-afternoon, giving you plenty of time to check in, freshen up, and visit the Quality of Life Association. This inspiring organization works tirelessly to support victims of unexploded ordnance (UXO) in the surrounding region—a moving and meaningful way to end the day.

Inc. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Cycling: 52.1 kilometers · +568 m / -574 m
Transit: 3 hrs, 110km
Hotel: Anoulack Khen Lao 
NGO: Quality of Life Association

Phonsavan

Plain of Jars UNESCO Heritage Site

In the morning, we’ll explore one of Laos’ most remarkable sites: the Plain of Jars. This UNESCO Heritage Site features thousands of mysterious stone jars scattered across the valley, believed to be up to 2,000 years old. Theories suggest these fascinating relics may have served as ancient burial pits—an archaeological marvel that will spark your curiosity.
If available, we’ll visit Lone Buffalo, a micro NGO making a big difference. From free English classes to female empowerment programs, entrepreneurial training, and sports coaching, their work empowers communities and transforms lives.

Inc. Meals: Breakfast
Cycling: None
Transit: Local transfers only
Hotel: Anoulack Khen Lao 
NGO: Lone Buffalo

PhonXai

Northward Adventures and Mountain Views

Brace yourself for an expert-level cycling challenge, perfect for those with very good fitness.
Starting from the hotel, we’ll head directly north along tranquil roads through serene villages. With 770m of uphill climbing and 1350m of downhill descent, this route promises to test your endurance and reward you with stunning views. Some sections may require you to push your bike, but rest assured—our support van will be with you the entire way, offering breaks whenever needed. At the 70km mark, we’ll pause for a well-earned lunch to recharge before transferring uphill over a spectacular mountain range.
After soaking up the breath taking scenery, we’ll descend into the town of Phonxai, where you can relax and celebrate your cycling triumphs.

Inc. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Cycling: 70km +770 m / -1,350 m
Transit: 2 hrs 90km
Hotel: Local Guesthouse

Luang Prabang

Cycling into town 

After an early breakfast, we’ll set off on a challenging 60km ride to the vibrant city of Luang Prabang. With mostly paved roads, this journey will test your endurance and determination, taking around 4-5 hours to complete. Along the way, you’ll be rewarded with stunning scenery as we pass through peaceful villages and lush landscapes.
With a steady effort, we’ll arrive in Luang Prabang just in time for lunch—ready to celebrate the triumph of completing this unforgettable adventure.

Inc. Meals: Breakfast
Cycling: 60km +730 m / -860 m
Transit: Optional
Hotel: Sala Prabang Hotel (or equivalent)

Luang Prabang

Bears, buffalos and waterfalls

Enjoy a ride from Luang Prabang to the beautiful Kuang Si Falls, one of Asia’s most spectacular swimming spots. Along the way, visit the Lao Buffalo Dairy to learn about their initiatives supporting village farmers, and Free the Bears, a sanctuary rescuing and rehabilitating bears from bile farms. Both stops are inspiring and impactful.
To celebrate the trip’s end, we’ll dine at KhaiPhaen, a restaurant by Friends International that empowers disadvantaged youth through vocational training. It’s a meaningful and memorable way to conclude an extraordinary adventure.

Inc. Meals: Breakfast
Cycling: 28km +384 m / -310 m
Transit: 28km
Hotel: Sala Prabang Hotel (or equivalent)
NGO: Lao Buffalo Dairy, Free the Bears

Nong Khuay Village

Jungle Jars, family life and homestay

Located 30km from Luang Prabang, Nong Khuay is a remote community of 80 Hmong and Khummu families. Getting there is an adventure—first, a 21km cycle along dirt tracks with some solid climbs. Then, the road ends, and we trek 9km through the mountains. If trekking isn’t for you, a van will be waiting in the village.
The Fairtrek initiative is actively strengthening the local economy through tourism—this is where your Social Cycles bamboo water bottles are made. We’ll spend time with local families, navigating the language barrier with the help of our SC guide. Our overnight stay will be an authentic village experience, sharing meals with our hosts in a simple yet welcoming environment.

Inc. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch,  Dinner
Cycling: 21km | +510m / -157m
Transit: None
Hotel: Nong Khuay Village Homestay (basic)

Nong Khiaw

Cycling through remote villages

After departing the village by van, we kick off a 44km ride on mostly paved roads, tackling short but sharp undulations. At the end of the ride, we pause for lunch at the Pak Ou Caves, a spiritual site filled with thousands of Buddha statues—a well-earned break after the journey.
From there, we jump in the van and head to Pak Mong (127km, ~3hrs). Time permitting, we continue cycling 29km through small villages, nestled between towering Karst peaks. This section is challenging, with steady climbs and sharp undulations that will push your legs—but the stunning scenery makes every pedal stroke worth it. Our destination, Nong Khiaw, is a hidden gem—a tranquil riverside town where rustic charm meets breathtaking landscapes. Unwind along the river, taking in the towering presence of Elephant Head Mountain, a striking natural landmark that adds to the town’s allure.

Inc. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Cycling: 44km | +533m /-560m & 29km | +364m / -402m
Transit: 3 hours
Hotel: Mandala Ou Resort (or equivalent)

Muang Khua:

River cruising in a long tail boat

Today, we trade wheels for water as we board a traditional long boat for a scenic cruise up the Nam Ou River, journeying toward the entrance of Phongsaly district.
Along the way, we stop at the sleepy riverside town of Muang Ngoi—a charming spot to stretch our legs and explore. Here, we’ll visit a local temple and the historic cave complex, once used as shelter during the 2nd Indochina War.
As we glide through the tranquil waters, we’ll also call in at rural communities along the riverbanks, gaining insight into daily life in this remote region.
To complete the experience, a picnic lunch will be served, allowing us to soak in the riverside views while enjoying a well-earned meal.

Inc. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Cycling: None
Transit: All day boat
Hotel: New Chaleunsouk Guesthouse

Dien Bien Phu

Crossing into Vietnam

We start the day getting to the Tay Trang border crossing, into Vietnam. The 66km drive will take just under 2 hrs, but we’ll get to the border nice and early, then it’s time to say goodbye to the Laos team!The Social Cycles Vietnam team will be waiting on the other side with a new set of bikes for you to take on the ride down to Dien Bien Phu. The ride is mostly paved and just 34km away with a nice drop in elevation.

Once in Dien Bien Phu, the evening is yours to explore. Be led by the guide and feast on local, authentic Vietnamese cuisine!

Inc. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Cycling: 34km | +362m / -970m
Transit: 1 hr 45
Hotel: Him Lam Resort

Mường Lay

Cycling rivers and valleys

Today’s ride takes us through winding valleys on a paved road that snakes through the breathtaking countryside. Along the way, we are surrounded by lush rice fields and charming villages, offering glimpses into the daily rhythms of rural life.
The journey builds as we climb beyond 1,000m in elevation, earning spectacular views that make every push worthwhile. Then, the reward—an exhilarating 20km descent into Muong Lay town, where the landscape opens up once again.
Midway, we pause for a simple and authentic village lunch, enjoying local flavors in a welcoming, unfiltered setting. Once we arrive in Muong Lay, the evening is yours to explore at your own pace—wander the town, take in the riverside atmosphere, and soak up the charm.

Inc. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Cycling: Up to 95km | hard | +1644 m / -1879 m
Transit: None
Hotel: Thanh Binh Hotel (or equivalent)

Lai Châu:

The mountain challenge

Get up early to capture pristine nature and picturesque scenery over the Black river. After breakfast at the hotel, we will cycle the first 25km on a tarmac road to Chan Nura. A vast landscape opens up beneath you: endless mountains stretching into the distance and craterous valleys dotted with stilt-home villages clustered around clear streams. Today is a hard day’s cycling, but definitely worth it. The reward at the end of it is some of the best views in the whole region. 

Inc. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Cycling: 70km | hard | +1,718m / -2,387m
Transit: None
Hotel: Muong Thanh Lai Chau Hotel (or equivalent)

Sapa

Epic mountains, incredible valleys

Today, we tackle one of the most challenging and awe-inspiring rides of the tour—the O Quy Ho Pass. Stretching 38km, this is Northwest Vietnam’s longest mountain pass, part of an elite system of four legendary routes in the region.
This demanding climb takes us beyond 2,000m in elevation, starting from a low point of 700m. Each push uphill is rewarded with unparalleled panoramic views, where dramatic peaks and mist-laced valleys create scenery that stays with you forever.
Make no mistake—this is the toughest cycling day of the tour. Covering 76km from hotel to hotel, we face a relentless 2,291m of climbing, followed by a thrilling 1,700m descent. The road is mostly paved, and our support van is always nearby—whether you need a breather or prefer to leapfrog ahead. This is a true test of endurance, but one that delivers lifelong memories in return. Embrace the challenge, soak in the scenery, and conquer the O Quy Ho Pass!
Inc. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Cycling: 75km | hard | +2291m / -1700m
Transit: None
Hotel: Sapa Centre Hotel (or equivalent)

Sapa to Hanoi:

Overnight train to Hanoi

A morning meander through the local market will highlight the melting pot of ethnic tribes and goods for sale.
You can choose to spend the afternoon cycling a gentle 25km downhill into the Sapa valley and experience the fantastic scenery of mountains, rice paddy fields and Hmong villages along the way. Alternatively, you can rest and relax in the town of Sapa.
The riders will be transferred back to Sapa and then to Lao Cai railway station for your overnight train to Hanoi.

Inc. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Cycling: 25km | easy | +164m / -1267m
Transit: None
Hotel: Sapalay overnight train (4 berth cabin)

Hanoi:

The Great Donation Debate

Step out  of the station and into the throngs of the city, the aromas of famous Hanoi street food awaits for breakfast.  After checking into the hotel, we’ll spend the morning learning from our NGO partner, HopeBox. This micro NGO has created an incredible, social enterprise based system supporting victims of gender based violence in Vietnam.

The afternoon is yours to explore the Old Quarter, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex or just find one of Hanoi’s endless funky cafes to sit back, relax and enjoy a egg coffee. In the evening, we’ll enjoy our last supper together as we discuss the NGOs we learned about and where the donation money could and should go.

Inc. Meals: Dinner
Cycling: None
Transit: Train Station to Hotel
Hotel: Phoenix Hotel (or equivalent)

Hanoi:

Departure Day

Say goodbye to your new found friends and riding buddies after breakfast as you get set to continue your onward journey.

Inc. Meals: Breakfast
Cycling: None
Transit: Airport transfer arranged on request ($)
Hotel: Additional accommodation arranged on request ($)