As travelers, we are often constrained by rigid overnight bus schedules and predictable train routes. Unless you have unlimited time, these modes of transport generally confine you to “tourist bubbles”—sights that are already inundated with crowds.
However, for those who want to experience the “real” Vietnam, there is an alternative that offers ultimate freedom and a unique perspective: traversing the length of the country by motorcycle. Whether you ride from Hanoi in the North to Ho Chi Minh City in the South (or vice-versa), here are five reasons why a motorcycle trip through Vietnam is a life-changing adventure.
1. See the Sights Up Close and Personal
Vietnam is a masterpiece of natural beauty, and there is no better way to see it than from behind the handlebars. As you navigate the coastline on the AH1 highway or the more scenic Ho Chi Minh Road, you’ll be treated to scenery that is mind-blowingly beautiful.
In a single day of riding, you might climb through the clouds on a steep mountain pass, drop down to sea level to cruise alongside isolated, pristine beaches, and then finish the day deep in a lush jungle. Because you aren’t behind a bus window, you can stop whenever you spot a hidden waterfall or a perfect sunset. Just remember to pack your mosquito repellent and a camera!
2. Meet Amazing Vietnamese People
If you are worried about breaking down in a remote area—don’t be. In Vietnam, breaking down isn’t a disaster; it’s an invitation to a social encounter. We know this better than anyone, as we spent two wonderful years living in Hoi An, and we saw firsthand the generosity and resourcefulness of the local community. Whether you rent a modern bike or buy one of the legendary used Honda Wins, mechanical issues are simply part of the journey.
The great news? Almost every Vietnamese person has basic bike knowledge, and a local mechanic is rarely more than a kilometer away. Some of the best conversations you’ll have will start with three local men rushing out to help you patch up a sagging chain, usually followed by an invitation to a roadside café for a beer and a chat.
3. Collect Unforgettable Travel Stories
Riding a motorcycle through Vietnam puts you in the middle of unplannable situations. You might find yourself mistakenly ordering Trứng vịt lộn (duck-fetus soup) in a remote village or being invited into a fisherman’s home for a multi-generational feast prepared in your honor. These are the stories that define a trip.
If you are just starting your journey and want to know what to expect, check out our 8 reasons to visit Southeast Asia to get in the mood for the region’s incredible hospitality.
4. Ultimate Freedom: No Schedules, No Stress
Vietnam is incredibly diverse, and you never know when you’ll fall in love with a place like Hue and want to stay an extra few days. Having your own transport means you aren’t at the mercy of a bus driver.
You can ride into the mountains to find natural springs or detour to find hidden gems like the Vedana Lagoon Resort for some much-needed R&R. If you prefer to stay closer to the city’s history, you can stop at the Pilgrimage Village Resort and Spa in Hue—it’s the perfect place to recharge before tackling the next leg of your journey.
5. The “Biker Banter” and Community
There is a massive community of riders in Vietnam. From the “funky” tan lines you’ll develop to the shared camaraderie at hostels like the ones we visited in our Ho Chi Minh City family guide, you’ll quickly find that “biker talk” is the ultimate icebreaker in any bar from Hanoi to HCMC.
A Crucial Note on Safety and Security
While motorcycling in Vietnam is thrilling, it does come with risks. To ensure your trip remains a positive memory, follow these safety protocols:
Paperwork: Ensure you have a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) that is recognized in Vietnam.t it is up to Western standards. That means you’ll want to have motorcycle boots, a padded jacket, and a full-face helmet.
Insurance: Buy robust, adventurer-specific travel insurance that explicitly covers motorcycle riding.
Gear: Invest in Western-standard safety gear. This means motorcycle boots, a padded jacket, and a full-face helmet. Avoid the “fashion” helmets sold on the streets.
Tires: If you plan on off-roading through the mountains or jungles, consider dual-sport tires for better traction on dicey surfaces.
For those of you planning on taking your adventuring to the next level and checking out the country’s plentiful off-roading opportunities through the mountains and jungles, consider slapping some dual sport tires on your motorcycle for added stability, braking and traction on some of the more dicey surfaces you’ll encounter.
Lived in England since 1998 and travelled the world since 2005, visiting over 100 countries on 5 continents. Writer, blogger, photographer with a passion for adventure and travel, discovering those off beat places not yet on the tourist trail. Marco contributes the very best in independent travel tips and lifestyle articles.
