Top 7 Scenic Mountain Passes in Vietnam Every Australian Biker Must Ride in 2025 – 2026
Introduction
Australia has great riding—but Vietnam’s northern mountains offer a whole new kind of thrill. With mist-covered valleys, winding cliffside roads, and jaw-dropping views at every turn, Vietnam is a paradise for bikers who crave elevation, adventure, and raw beauty. If you’re planning an offroad motorbike tour in Vietnam between 2025 and 2026, these seven iconic mountain passes need to be on your throttle-happy radar.
Whether you’re carving curves on a CRF300L or cruising with your mates on an offroad expedition, these scenic passes will test your skill and reward you with unforgettable memories.
1. Ma Pi Leng Pass (Ha Giang Province)
Nickname: “The King of All Passes”
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Why Ride It: Towering over the Nho Que River canyon, Ma Pi Leng is Vietnam’s most legendary pass. The road clings to the cliffs, offering otherworldly views that look like something out of a biker’s dream.
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Highlights: Hairpin curves, limestone peaks, ethnic villages, epic drone shots.
2. O Quy Ho Pass (Lao Cai – Lai Chau Border)
Nickname: “The Cloud Pass”
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Why Ride It: One of the highest mountain passes in Vietnam, often cloaked in mist with sweeping views of Fansipan—the country’s tallest peak.
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Highlights: 50km of curvy elevation, waterfalls, roadside tea stalls, stunning sunsets.
3. Khau Pha Pass (Yen Bai Province)
Nickname: “Sky Gate”
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Why Ride It: A must-ride in Mu Cang Chai, especially during the rice harvest. The pass cuts through golden terrace fields and connects to some of Vietnam’s most scenic ethnic villages.
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Highlights: Panoramic views, remote tribal culture, photogenic drone landscapes.
4. Pha Din Pass (Son La – Dien Bien Border)
Nickname: “Heaven-Earth Divider”
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Why Ride It: Steeped in history and elevation. This pass played a vital role in the Dien Bien Phu campaign and is a thrilling ride through clouds and cliffs.
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Highlights: Wide-angle curves, historic markers, peaceful local cafes.
5. Ma Phuc Pass (Cao Bang Province)
Nickname: “The Serpent’s Spine”
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Why Ride It: A visually striking pass made up of seven winding curves through limestone karst terrain. It’s the scenic route to Ban Gioc Waterfall.
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Highlights: Rock formations, green valleys, quiet riding with local charm.
6. Lung Lo Pass (Son La Province)
Nickname: “The Hidden Beast”
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Why Ride It: Less crowded but beautifully rugged. This pass served as a key supply route during wartime and now offers untouched nature and flowing tarmac.
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Highlights: Forest-lined paths, off-the-radar villages, flowing corners.
7. Deo Gio (Wind Pass – Bac Ha to Xin Man)
Nickname: “The Rider’s Secret”
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Why Ride It: A challenging but rewarding pass through one of Ha Giang’s wildest stretches. Perfect for adventure riders wanting something raw and real.
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Highlights: Offroad detours, views of tea hills, ethnic markets, dirt-friendly terrain.
Conclusion
Vietnam’s mountain passes are more than just roads—they’re rites of passage for adventure bikers. Whether you’re navigating the clouds of O Quy Ho or feeling the edge on Ma Pi Leng, every twist and turn brings a new thrill. For Australian riders looking to explore something truly unforgettable in 2025–2026, these seven scenic passes are calling. So gear up, grab your mates, and ride Vietnam like never before.
