
Northern Laos Motorbike Tour
Ready to dive into Northern Laos’ rugged trails, hidden villages, and ancient mysteries? This 8-day dirt bike circuit checks all the boxes - from jungle-clad off-road tracks to rich cultural exchanges with local tribes.
If you’re seeking a thrilling ride peppered with boat trips, mountaintop views, and ancient archeological wonders, buckle up (or rather, strap on your helmet) for the adventure of a lifetime
Tour Highlights
This loop tour starts and ends in the UNESCO-listed city of Luang Prabang, weaving through stunning backroads, lush forests, and vibrant riverside towns. Each day is a new blend of off-road escapades, local market encounters, and a hearty helping of Lao hospitality.
Tour Details
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Day 1: Luang Prabang → Pakbeng (200 km)
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Day 2: Pakbeng → Houay Xai (180 km)
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Day 3: Houay Xai → Muang Long (160 km)
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Day 4: Muang Long → Luang Namtha (140 km)
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Day 5: Luang Namtha → Oudomxay (150 km)
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Day 6: Oudomxay → Nong Khiaw (160 km)
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Day 7: Nong Khiaw → Phonsavan (180 km)
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Day 8: Phonsavan → Luang Prabang (180 km)
For more details, please refer to our FAQ page.
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What to Expect from the Tour
Pack your bags, rev your engine, and get ready to uncover Northern Laos in all its dusty, lush, and awe-inspiring glory! After all, the best way to experience a new place is by feeling its roads rumble beneath your wheels. Safe travels and happy riding!
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1
Luang Prabang → Pakbeng
Wave goodbye to Luang Prabang’s golden temples and hit the road alongside the Mekong River.
Expect a mix of paved roads and dirt tracks, plus friendly pit stops in rural villages.
By evening, roll into Pakbeng, known for its killer sunsets and lively market.
Distance: 200km
Day 2
Pakbeng → Houay Xai
Distance: 180km
Venture west toward Houay Xai, gateway to the Golden Triangle.
Keep your eyes peeled for river crossings and off-road surprises.
Swing by the village of Pak Tha for a chat with locals.
Wrap up the day along the Mekong with an overnight in Houay Xai.
Day 3
Houay Xai → Muang Long
Distance: 160km
Today’s challenge? Navigating rugged terrain in the remote northwest near the Myanmar border.
Dense forests, single-track trails, and encounters with Akha and Tai Lue communities await.
End the day in Muang Long, where the solitude is as sweet as the local smiles.
Day 4
Muang Long → Luang Namtha
Distance: 140km
Make tracks for Luang Namtha, riding through the Nam Ha National Protected Area.
Cross rivers, dodge wildlife (maybe), and mingle with Khmu and Hmong villages.
Spend the night in Luang Namtha, sampling regional cuisine at the bustling night market.
Day 5
Luang Namtha → Oudomxay
Distance: 150km
Point your front wheel south along mountainous roads leading to Oudomxay.
Expect challenging single trails, remote hamlets, and that unbeatable sense of off-road freedom.
Evening brings you into Oudomxay’s markets for a well-earned feast.
Day 6
Oudomxay → Nong Khiaw
Distance: 160km
Southeast you go, trading rutted dirt roads for breathtaking mountain panoramas en route to Nong Khiaw.
A boat ride on the Nam Ou River offers a refreshing break from the dusty trails.
Learn how to whip up local dishes in a homey cooking class before turning in for the night.
Day 7
Nong Khiaw → Phonsavan
Distance: 180km
Cruise rugged paths toward the mysterious Plain of Jars, an otherworldly site scattered with massive stone jars.
Enjoy a deep dive into local legends - are they ancient burial vessels or something else entirely?
Overnight in Phonsavan, steeped in history and culture.
Day 8
Phonsavan → Luang Prabang
Distance: 180km
Last but not least, it’s time to head back to Luang Prabang, mixing off-road trails with smoother roads.
Don’t miss a quick detour to the Pak Ou Caves, brimming with thousands of Buddha statues, before rolling into your final stop.
Trip ends, stories begin!