Cao Bang, a hidden gem in northern Vietnam, offers an unparalleled experience for those who love the thrill of motorbiking. Renting a motorbike in Cao Bang and driving through its scenic landscapes is one of the best ways to explore the area. From quiet roads that wind through lush rice fields, past towering mountains and waterfalls, to remote villages where you can truly escape the tourist crowds—Cao Bang has it all. This guide will cover everything you need to know about driving and renting a motorbike in Cao Bang, as well as alternative ways to explore this stunning region.
Driving motorbike in Cao Bang
The experience
Driving a motorbike in Cao Bang is an incredible experience that immerses you in some of Vietnam’s most breathtaking scenery. The region is characterized by its quiet roads, unspoiled landscapes, and authentic local culture. Unlike Ha Giang, which has become a popular destination for travelers, Cao Bang remains relatively untouched. You can ride for hours without encountering another tourist, surrounded by vast rice fields, small ethnic villages, towering limestone mountains, dense jungles, and pristine waterfalls.
The roads in Cao Bang are generally in decent condition, especially the main highways. However, if you venture off the beaten path to explore hidden gems, be prepared for rougher roads. The rewards, though, are immense, as these lesser-known routes often lead to the most stunning and untouched parts of the province.
The law
In Vietnam, the law requires you to have a valid motorbike license from your home country, accompanied by an International Driving Permit (IDP), to legally drive a motorbike. It’s also mandatory to wear a helmet, abstain from drinking alcohol when riding, and adhere to speed limits and other traffic regulations. While enforcement can be lax, particularly in remote areas like Cao Bang, these rules are still important for your safety and legal protection.
In practice
In practice, most motorbike rental shops in Cao Bang won’t ask to see your license before handing over the keys. Police presence is minimal, and unlike in more touristy areas like Ha Giang, authorities in Cao Bang are not actively stopping foreigners. However, this doesn’t mean you should ignore the law. In the event of an accident, not having the proper license could mean that your insurance won’t cover you, leaving you fully liable for any damages or injuries.
Safety
Beyond the legal requirements, safety is a major consideration when driving a motorbike in Cao Bang. If you lack experience or don’t have a proper license, it’s not recommended to attempt riding here. The remote mountain roads can be challenging and are not the place to start learning how to ride. Even experienced riders should take care, especially on less-maintained routes.
Alternatives for driving motorbike
Going by Tour
If you prefer not to drive a motorbike yourself, there are other options to explore Cao Bang. One of the most affordable ways is to join a small group tour. These tours often use comfortable limousine vans and cover the main highlights of the region, such as the Ban Gioc Waterfall. Many of these tours also include a visit to Ba Be Lake, Vietnam’s largest natural lake. While group tours tend to stick to the main tourist spots, they offer a hassle-free way to see the region. You can check out available Cao Bang tours here.
On the Back of a Motorbike
For those who want the thrill of motorbiking without the responsibility of driving, riding on the back of a motorbike is the perfect solution. A local guide who is highly experienced in navigating the region will drive, allowing you to fully enjoy the scenery without the stress of driving or navigating. This option not only offers adventure but also ensures that you discover hidden spots that you might miss on your own. If you’re interested, we at Local Vietnam can help arrange a custom itinerary and connect you with a trusted guide and driver.
Request a motorbike tour in Cao Bang.
Going by Car
If you prioritize comfort and protection from the elements, traveling by car is a great option. A car rental in Cao Bang always includes a driver, so you don’t have to worry about navigating the roads yourself. Cars provide better protection against the cold winter months and the hot, rainy summer season. The downside is that you’ll miss some of the more adventurous routes that are accessible only by motorbike, and the experience is less immersive. However, for those who prefer comfort, a car is the ideal choice.
Request a car tour in Cao Bang.
Types of motorbikes and rental prices
Automatic Motorbike (Scooter)
Automatic motorbikes, or scooters, are convenient and easy to ride, making them popular in more urban or flat areas like Hoi An or the quiet countryside of Ninh Binh. However, they are not well-suited for the rugged mountain roads of Cao Bang. These bikes lack the necessary power to handle steep inclines and descents, and they don’t allow for downshifting, which is crucial for maintaining control on steep downhill sections. Therefore, while they might be tempting due to their ease of use, they are not recommended for exploring the mountainous terrain of Cao Bang.
Semi-Automatic Motorbikes
Semi-automatic motorbikes are the most popular choice among travelers in Cao Bang and are also widely used by locals. These bikes offer a good balance of power and control, making them suitable for the mountainous roads of the region. You can manually shift gears, which is especially important when navigating steep inclines or descents. Some popular models include:
- Honda Wave
- Yamaha Sirius
- Honda Blade
The cost of renting a semi-automatic motorbike in Cao Bang typically ranges between 100,000 and 150,000 VND per day.
Large Motorbikes and Dirt Bikes
For experienced riders, larger motorbikes and dirt bikes are an excellent option. These bikes offer more power and are well-suited for long-distance touring and off-road adventures. However, it’s important to maintain appropriate speeds—not just to adhere to traffic rules but also because the roads in Cao Bang can be unpredictable. You may encounter oncoming vehicles, livestock, or sudden road damage around any corner. Additionally, large motorbikes and dirt bikes are less common to rent, so it’s advisable to arrange for one in advance before arriving in Cao Bang. Prices for renting large motorbikes and dirt bikes usually range from 300,000 to 500,000 VND per day.
One way motorbike rental in Cao Bang
When Do You Need a One-Way Motorbike Rental?
A one-way motorbike rental (sometimes referred to as a one-way rental) is necessary if you plan to travel from Cao Bang to another region in northern Vietnam, such as Ha Giang, without returning to Cao Bang. Many rental companies in Cao Bang are small, local businesses that don’t have branches in other parts of Vietnam, so they might not offer standard one-way rentals. However, some might allow you to drop off the motorbike at a designated location for an additional fee to cover the cost of returning the bike to Cao Bang.
Alternative Option: Start from Hanoi
Another option is to start your motorbike journey from Hanoi. You can rent a motorbike there, make a loop through the different northern regions, including Cao Bang and Ha Giang, and then return the bike to Hanoi at the end of your trip. This option gives you more flexibility and simplifies logistics, as Hanoi has more rental companies offering one-way rentals.
Recommended motorbike rental companies in Cao Bang
To explore the stunning landscapes of Cao Bang by motorbike, your first step is to get to Cao Bang City, the capital of Cao Bang Province. From Hanoi, this journey can be done either by sleeper bus at night or by limousine bus during the day. The trip takes around 6 to 7 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Upon arriving in Cao Bang, you have the option to stay in the city for a night to get everything in order and rest up. However, as the city itself is not particularly noteworthy, you might prefer to head out straight away to begin your adventure.
Motorbike Rental Companies in Cao Bang:
- Green Riders House Cao Bang
Address: 35 tổ 23, Nà Cạn, Cao Bằng, 21000, Vietnam
A popular choice among travelers, offering a variety of motorbikes for rent. They are known for their reliable service and well-maintained bikes, perfect for exploring the rugged terrain of Cao Bang. - Cao Bang Motorbike Rentals
Address: Số 24 Tổ 23 Phường Sông Bằng, Cao Bằng 270000, Vietnam
Another reputable rental company in the city, offering competitive prices and a good selection of semi-automatic and manual bikes. - Motorbike Rental – Dịch vụ cho thuê xe máy Cao Bằng
Address: Phố Kim Đồng, P. Hợp Giang, Cao Bằng, Vietnam
This local rental service is conveniently located in the city center, providing easy access to motorbikes that are suitable for both short trips and long-distance travel.
In addition to these rental companies, many accommodations, especially those catering to foreign travelers, also have their own motorbikes available for rent. There’s no need to worry about running out of motorbikes in Cao Bang—you’ll have plenty of options to choose from for your adventure.
Amazing places to visit in Cao Bang by motorbike
To get you excited and well-prepared for your motorbike adventure, here are some of the most amazing places to visit in Cao Bang. Each destination offers not just stunning sights but also incredibly scenic routes that will make the journey just as memorable as the destination itself. The roads are surrounded by towering mountains, lush rice fields, dense jungles, and quaint local villages, all set in one of the most remote and untouched regions of Vietnam.
1. Ban Gioc Waterfall
Ban Gioc Waterfall is one of the most iconic and breathtaking sights in Vietnam. As you ride through the winding mountain roads to reach this natural wonder, you’ll pass through serene landscapes that are a perfect prelude to the powerful beauty of the waterfall itself. The journey is as rewarding as the destination, making it a must-visit on any motorbike trip through Cao Bang.
2. Phong Nam Valley
Phong Nam Valley is a hidden gem that offers a fairy tale-like setting. The route through the valley is lined with impressive mountains, vast stretches of rice fields, and picturesque villages. The journey allows you to experience the true essence of Cao Bang, where nature and local life blend harmoniously.
3. Nui Thung Mountain
Nui Thung, also known as Angel Eye Mountain, is a stunning sight with its unique hole through the mountain, creating a natural window to the sky. The ride to this secluded spot is a serene adventure through some of Cao Bang’s most pristine landscapes. The surrounding valley, with its emerald lakes and tranquil villages, makes the journey even more special.
4. Me Pja Pass
Me Pja Pass is the most iconic mountain pass in Cao Bang and a dream for motorbike enthusiasts. While the drive over the pass is exhilarating, the highlight is actually the viewpoint that offers a majestic panorama of the winding road below. The surrounding area is remote and incredibly scenic, offering an experience far from the usual tourist trails.
5. The drive from Cao Bang to Bao Lac
This route is a journey through what feels like no man’s land, with no cities or big towns in sight. The isolation adds to the allure, as you ride through some of the most untouched and awe-inspiring landscapes in Vietnam. Be prepared, as there are hardly any places to eat along the way, but the views more than make up for it. You’ll encounter mountains, rice fields, bamboo forests, jungles, and several mountain passes that will leave you in awe at every turn.
