About the route from Hanoi to Moc Chau
Why visit Moc Chau?
Moc Chau is a rural plateau in northern Vietnam known for its cool climate, vast tea hills, and seasonal flower landscapes. It’s especially popular from late autumn through spring, when the air is fresh and the fields are full of blossoms like plum, peach, and mustard flowers. The area is a favorite weekend escape from Hanoi and often included in broader Northwest Vietnam itineraries.
For more, see our full Moc Chau travel guide.
Distance and Road conditions
The distance from Hanoi to Moc Chau is approximately 190 kilometers, and the journey typically takes 4 to 5 hours by road, depending on traffic and stops.
The first stretch follows the Hanoi–Hoa Binh expressway, a smooth and well-maintained road that’s not open to motorbikes. After Hoa Binh, the route continues along National Road 6 (QL6), a local highway that passes through towns, valleys, and gentle mountain areas.
The only winding section is Thung Khe Pass, which is short, scenic, and generally safe to drive. Overall, the entire route is fully paved and in good condition, making it accessible by van, bus, car, or motorbike—with only slight variations in comfort depending on the vehicle.
Option 1: Limousine Vans
How it works
Limousine vans are one of the most popular ways to travel from Hanoi to Moc Chau. These are shared 9-seat vehicles with VIP-style interiors—comfortable leather seats, air-conditioning, and often USB chargers. Despite the name, they’re not private transfers but offer a high level of comfort at an affordable price.
Many companies offer door-to-door service, picking you up at your hotel in Hanoi and dropping you off directly in Moc Chau. This makes it especially convenient if you’re carrying luggage or want to avoid bus stations. For most travelers, this is the most efficient and hassle-free way to get to Moc Chau.
How to book
You can book limousine van tickets easily online through platforms like VeXeRe or 12Go, or through local travel agents and hotel desks in Hanoi.
Some of the best companies on this route include:
- Hai Van – most reliable, wide coverage
- Xuan Trang – modern vans, good service
- Nhat An – clean and punctual
- Price: around 250,000 VND (~$10 USD) per person
Booking in advance is recommended, especially on weekends and holidays, as this is a popular route.
Option 2: Sleeper Buses
How it works
Sleeper buses are available between Hanoi and Moc Chau, but they’re not the most practical option for such a short journey. While some travelers consider overnight buses to save a night’s accommodation, the route only takes about 4.5 hours, which means you might end up arriving in Moc Chau at 2 or 3 AM—not ideal.
That said, a few daytime sleeper buses also run this route, offering the option to lie down during the ride. These are less common than limousine vans and are mostly used by local travelers.
Bus types and prices
There are two main sleeper bus options:
- Standard Sleeper Bus – around 220,000 VND
Basic reclining beds, often with limited legroom and minimal privacy - VIP Cabin Sleeper Bus – around 400,000 VND
Individual sleeping pods with curtains and charging ports, but excessive for a short ride
For such a brief trip, most travelers find limousine vans better value for comfort and convenience.
How to book
You can book sleeper buses online via platforms like VeXeRe, 12Go, or through local travel agencies and hotels in Hanoi.
Important: Not all buses go directly into central Moc Chau. Some stop along the highway or outskirts, so be sure to confirm the drop-off point before booking—especially if you’re arriving late or don’t have arranged transport in Moc Chau.
Option 3: Private Car with Driver
How it works
Hiring a private car with driver is the most comfortable and flexible way to travel from Hanoi to Moc Chau. You can choose your own departure time, get picked up directly at your hotel or Hanoi airport, and enjoy a smooth, scenic ride without the hassle of transfers or delays.
This option is especially convenient if you’re traveling in a group or with family, carrying bulky luggage, or want to stop along the way—for example, at Thung Khe Pass for views or local food. The driver handles all logistics, and many companies offer basic English-speaking support or WhatsApp contact during the trip.
Price Range
- Sedan (2 pax): 2,500,000 VND ($100 USD)
- SUV (up to 4 pax): ~3,000,000 VND
- Minivan (up to 10 pax): ~3,800,000 VND
The price usually includes fuel, tolls, and waiting time. While it’s the most expensive option, it offers complete convenience and is often the best choice for families or travelers on tighter schedules.
Option 4: Driving a motorbike
How it works
Riding a motorbike from Hanoi to Moc Chau is a popular option for experienced travelers looking for a bit more freedom and adventure. The roads are generally in good condition, and the route is easy to follow using QL6. Travel time is around 5 to 6 hours, depending on your pace, stops, and road conditions.
It’s a manageable day trip, though some travelers choose to break it up with an overnight stop—especially if heading onward to other destinations in the northwest.
Tips for riding
- Motorbikes are not allowed on the Hanoi–Hoa Binh expressway, so you’ll need to take the older route via Xuan Mai.
- A great way to break up the journey is by stopping in Mai Chau, which is about 3.5 hours from Hanoi. From there, it’s another 1.5–2 hours to Moc Chau.
- You’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) with a valid motorbike endorsement to ride legally.
- The ride is scenic—passing rice fields, mountains, and rural villages—but watch out for heavy trucks and traffic, especially near Hanoi and on some stretches of QL6.
This route is best suited for confident riders who are comfortable navigating Vietnamese roads and want the freedom to explore along the way.
