Vietnam Highlands & Coast Expedition 9 Days

Day One

Hoi An – Quang Ngai Approx. 150 Km

On the evening before departure, you will meet your friendly Flamingo Travel guide at your hotel. After introductions, the guide will give a brief overview of the journey, explain the essential preparations and safety information, and welcome the group with a relaxed dinner together.

The following morning, we collect our motorcycles from the Flamingo Travel office in Hoi An and begin our journey south, exploring part of Vietnam’s spectacular coastline, which stretches for more than 3,000 kilometres from north to south.
Leaving Hoi An behind, we weave through peaceful countryside and small fishing villages before turning inland towards the majestic Truong Son Mountains. The route continues alongside a quiet canal carrying fresh water from Phu Ninh Lake—one of Central Vietnam’s largest reservoirs and a beautiful ecological area. 
Narrow backroads, green rice fields and the gentle rhythm of rural life make this a relaxed yet inspiring introduction to the adventure ahead. By late afternoon, we arrive at My Khe Beach in Quang Ngai, where we check in and settle down for a peaceful night by the sea after our first 150-kilometre ride.

Day Two

Quang Ngai – Pleiku Approx. 240 Km

After breakfast, we leave the coast of Quang Ngai and visit the Son My Memorial Site, also known as My Lai. This deeply moving historical stop offers an opportunity to reflect on the suffering caused by war and the enduring hope for peace among the Vietnamese people.
Leaving the coastal plains behind, we begin our climb into the mountains along winding roads towards the highlands of Mang Den. The air becomes noticeably cooler as we ride through lush forests, peaceful valleys and remote ethnic minority villages. In the afternoon, we continue along a section of the legendary Ho Chi Minh Road through Vietnam’s Central Highlands. Open roads, dramatic mountain scenery and the distinctive rhythm of highland life make this a long but rewarding day in the saddle. Overing in Hotel in Pleiku.

Day Three

Pleiku – Buon Don Approx. 170 Km

Today, we leave Pleiku and ride west for a full day of exploration through the vast landscapes of Vietnam’s Central Highlands. The route takes us across rolling coffee plantations, pepper farms and extensive rubber forests before reaching the remote roads near the Cambodian border. Along the way, we visit the Dak Lak Elephant Conservation Centre to learn about the care, rescue and protection of these remarkable animals—a powerful symbol of the region’s culture and history.
In the afternoon, we continue through peaceful villages and open countryside before arriving in Buon Don. Here, we check in to a local homestay and settle down for the night, surrounded by the distinctive landscapes, traditions and cultural atmosphere of the Central Highlands.

Day Four

Buon Don – Lak Lake Approx. 120 Km

After breakfast in the fresh morning air of Buon Don, we set off for Buon Ma Thuot, widely known as Vietnam’s coffee capital. Here, we visit the World Coffee Museum to learn about the region’s rich coffee culture and enjoy a cup of locally grown coffee.
Leaving the city behind, we continue along quiet country roads through coffee plantations and peaceful ethnic minority villages towards Lak Lake—one of the largest natural freshwater lakes in Vietnam’s Central Highlands. If we are fortunate, we may see elephants roaming peacefully near the lakeshore. By late afternoon, we arrive at our accommodation and settle down for the night, surrounded by the calm waters, green hills and tranquil atmosphere of Lak Lake.

Day Five

Lak Lake – Da Lat Approx. 165 Km

After breakfast, we leave Lak Lake and continue south along the winding roads of the Central Highlands. Crossing the Krong No River, we pass floating fish farms and catch a glimpse of everyday life in this remote region. Beyond the river, the road climbs through the rural landscapes of Dam Rong, passing quiet villages, small farms and mountain valleys. As we approach Da Lat, the air becomes cooler and the tropical scenery gradually gives way to rolling hills and vast pine forests. We arrive in Da Lat where we will spend two nights relaxing amidst a peaceful setting and fresh air., check in to our hotel and enjoy a free evening exploring this lively highland city. 

Day Six

Explore Da Lat and Langbiang Mountain

Today offers a relaxed day of exploration around Da Lat. You can choose to ride your motorcycle or travel by private car to the Langbiang Mountain Tourist Area. From the foot of the mountain, we board a local Jeep and follow a steep, winding road through the pine forest to Radar Peak. From the viewpoint, enjoy sweeping panoramas across the surrounding mountains, Dankia–Suoi Vang Valley and Da Lat in the distance.
After descending the mountain, we stop for lunch at a local restaurant near the foot of Langbiang before returning to central Da Lat. The remainder of the day is free to relax or continue exploring the city, its colourful markets, cafés and lively streets at your own pace.

Day Seven

Da Lat – Mui Ne Approx. 170 Km

Leaving Da Lat in the cool morning air, we visit a local silk workshop to discover the traditional production process, from silkworm cocoons and thread spinning to weaving the finished fabric. The journey continues through the green highland countryside, passing spectacular waterfalls and lush mountain scenery. We then begin the exhilarating descent of Dai Ninh Pass, following its sweeping curves as the cool highland climate gradually gives way to the warm, sunlit coastal plains. Before reaching our accommodation in Mui Ne, we ride through impressive white and golden sand dunes—a dramatic contrast to the forests and mountains of the Central Highlands. We spend the night at a resort facing the sea, with free time to swim at the beach or relax beside the resort’s pool.

Day Eight

Mui Ne – Vung Tau Approx. 160 Km

Coastal roads carry us from Mui Ne towards Vung Tau, passing through La Gi and Ho Tram. Open stretches of tarmac, blue water, sandy beaches and the easy rhythm of small fishing communities create a refreshing day of riding beside the sea. Leaving the shoreline for a while, we turn inland to visit the Long Phuoc Tunnels. Walking through part of this underground network offers a fascinating insight into wartime life and the remarkable resilience of the local people. The final stretch leads us into the seaside city of Vung Tau. Once we have checked in to our hotel, the remainder of the day is yours to unwind, stroll along the waterfront or explore the city at your own pace.

Day Nine

Vung Tau – Ho Chi Minh City Approx. 120 km

Our last morning on the road begins with a relaxed ride through the outskirts of Vung Tau. Bidding farewell to the coast, we pass small villages, open fields and quiet riverside roads as we make our way towards Ho Chi Minh City. As Saigon draws closer, the peaceful countryside gradually gives way to expanding urban districts, busy traffic and the unmistakable energy of one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic cities. This striking change of scenery creates a memorable conclusion to the ride.
Upon reaching the Flamingo Travel office, we return the motorcycles and say goodbye to our guide and support team. Our nine-day adventure from Hoi An to Saigon comes to an end after an unforgettable journey through coastal landscapes, the Central Highlands, mountain passes and sweeping sand dunes—leaving us with lasting memories of Vietnam’s remarkable diversity and vibrant spirit.
Want to explore more of Saigon? Ask us about extending your stay or arranging a motorcycle rental at a special rate. We can’t wait to ride with you again on another epic adventure!

RIDE ON!
Your dedicated Flamingo Travel Team