Taking My Dad on an Epic Off-Road Tour: Vietnam Adventure (Part 2)
From Hot Springs to Waterfalls: The Ultimate Dirt Bike Tour in Vietnam
After an exhilarating few days exploring Vietnam's rugged terrain, our off-road adventure continued with even more memorable moments. This second part of our four-day motocross tour in Vietnam took us through some of the most spectacular and challenging landscapes the region has to offer.
Mountain Views and Unexpected Celebrations
Returning to our homestay in Tram Tau, after we unwound at the local hot springs. I have to say, this place has become my absolute favourite accommodation spot in Vietnam. The combination of authentic hospitality and stunning scenery is unbeatable.
Here's what makes it special: the owners discovered it was my dad's 49th birthday in a few days and surprised us with a cake. These spontaneous moments of kindness are what make a dirt bike tour in Vietnam about so much more than just riding. And the views? You can literally see the mountains from your bed. It's the kind of place that reminds you why you chose an off-road adventure over a standard tourist experience.
Waterfall Hunting in Nghia Lo: When Exploration Gets Real
Our final day brought us to a stunning waterfall in Nghia Lo, but as with any proper off-road tour in Vietnam, the journey there became an adventure in itself. I spotted a challenging route and couldn't resist: could we cross the stream and reach the mountain on the other side?
"This is stupid," I thought. But stupid doesn't always mean bad.
The Challenge Begins
As we navigated increasingly technical terrain on our dirt bikes, that familiar question crept in: was this a mistake? Then I remembered who I was with. My dad couldn't exactly leave me a bad review, could he?
The plan was simple: follow this trail and hopefully cross the stream. Reality? It was looking sketchy. The slopes were slippery, the path uncertain, and we were genuinely at risk of getting stuck down a hillside.
Reading the Terrain
This is where experience on a dirt bike tour in Vietnam really counts. I tested one path while considering alternatives. We found a potentially crossable spot, but it led to the wrong side of the valley. Time to reassess.
The water proved too deep, and the hills too steep. Mission failed—but that's part of the adventure. When you're on an authentic off-road tour, not every route works out, and that's perfectly fine. Knowing when to turn back is just as important as knowing when to push forward.
The Reward: Waterfall Serenity
After all that technical riding and problem-solving, we finally reached the waterfall. Those few minutes of relaxation, surrounded by cascading water and jungle scenery, made every challenging moment worthwhile. This is what a dirt bike tour in Vietnam is all about: earning your views through skill and determination.
Technical Riding and Sketchy Bridges
The ride back presented its own challenges. We encountered a deteriorating bridge that looked like it might give way at any moment. Had someone gone off before? Is that why rocks were placed as a warning? These are the split-second decisions you make on a real off-road tour in Vietnam.
I didn't even notice the safer outside line until I was halfway across. Fortunately, experience and bike control got me through safely.
The Final Off-Road Section: Fast and Flowy
We hit the last stretch of off-road trail before heading home, and it was perfect: fast, flowy, and right up my dad's street. I let him lead, and suddenly I was the one struggling to keep up.
Then something interesting happened: the road simply transformed into off-road trail. No clear boundary, just tarmac giving way to dirt. That seamless transition is part of what makes this region so incredible for motocross enthusiasts.
Finishing Like True Brits
As two Brits abroad, there was only one proper way to finish: visiting a tea field. After pumping up our tires, we faced the four-hour road ride home, tired but thoroughly satisfied.
Why Choose This Off-Road Adventure in Northern Vietnam?
This four-day dirt bike tour in Vietnam offered everything an adventure rider could want:
Challenging terrain that tests your skills without being overwhelming
Authentic cultural experiences like homestays where locals treat you like family
Natural beauty from mountain vistas to hidden waterfalls
Technical riding that keeps you engaged and improving
Flexibility to explore and take the road less traveled
Whether you're an experienced rider looking for your next challenge or someone wanting to experience Vietnam beyond the typical tourist trail, an off-road tour in Vietnam delivers unforgettable memories.
Ready for Your Own Adventure?
If you want to experience the thrill of navigating stream crossings, conquering mountain trails, and discovering hidden waterfalls on two wheels, a four-day off-road tour in Vietnam with Dirt Bike Academy might be exactly what you're looking for.
The combination of technical riding, stunning scenery, and genuine cultural connection makes this region one of the best-kept secrets for adventure motorcycle enthusiasts. And who knows? Maybe you'll find yourself at a sketchy stream crossing, wondering if you can make it to the other side.
Ready to book your own off-road Vietnam adventure? Check out Dirt Bike Academy’s four-day tours that combine expert guiding with unforgettable experiences in Northern Vietnam's most spectacular terrain.
