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If you're looking for a cycling route that offers both accessibility and awe-inspiring beauty, Ma Phuc Pass cycling should be at the top of your list. Nestled in Cao Bang Province in Northern Vietnam, Ma Phuc is not only one of the most scenic passes in the region—it’s also one of the most culturally significant and cyclist-friendly.
In this detailed guide, we’ll explore why Ma Phuc Pass is a must-ride for cyclists, the best routes to include it in, when to go, and how to easily plan your trip with Golden Cycling Tours.
The name “Ma Phuc” means “Kneeling Horse,” inspired by the pass's two dramatic limestone ridges that resemble a horse kneeling. It sits at about 700 meters above sea level and serves as a natural gateway between Cao Bang City and the Ban Gioc Waterfall region.
Riding through this pass is like gliding through a natural monument—steep cliffs flank the road while wide views of rice fields, corn plantations, and rural villages open below.
Unlike other high mountain passes such as Ma Pi Leng or Khau Coc Cha, Ma Phuc is:
Less steep, making it perfect for intermediate and beginner cyclists
Well-paved and safe for road bikes and hybrids
Shorter in distance (around 3.5 km uphill) but visually stunning
That makes it a great warm-up for longer multi-day tours through Northeast Vietnam.
The area around Ma Phuc is home to ethnic Tay, Nung, and Dao communities. Along the road, you’ll see farmers working the fields, children waving from stilt houses, and roadside markets selling forest herbs, honey, and handmade textiles.
Cycling here is as much a cultural journey as it is a physical one.
Ma Phuc Pass is ideally included in a 3 to 4-day cycling loop from Cao Bang to Ban Gioc Waterfall and back. Here’s a sample itinerary:
Depart from the city and enter the lush countryside. Ride through Ma Phuc Pass and continue to the quiet town of Quang Uyen. Overnight in a Nung ethnic homestay.
Cycle through remote valleys and border villages. Visit Nguom Ngao Cave and end your day at the stunning Ban Gioc Waterfall—one of Asia’s largest.
Take a different scenic route back, looping through Trung Khanh. Optional stops at local craft villages or historical sites.
📍 Route Difficulty: Easy to moderate
🛤 Road Conditions: Mostly paved with some gentle climbs
🚲 Recommended for: All skill levels, including beginners and families
Pro Tip: Golden Cycling Tours offers fully supported trips along this route, complete with guides, accommodations, meals, and high-quality bikes.
Cool temperatures ideal for long rides
Dry roads and clear skies
Great visibility for photography
Lush, green landscapes
Occasional rain—be sure to pack waterproof gear
Ban Gioc Waterfall is at its most powerful
🚴 Smooth, wide roads with low traffic
🌿 Breathtaking mountain and valley views
🛖 Ethnic minority villages with cultural charm
📸 Scenic photo opportunities every few kilometers
🏠 Authentic homestay experiences with local families
Golden Cycling Tours is Vietnam’s leading operator for cultural and adventure cycling in the north. When you book your Ma Phuc Pass cycling tour with them, you get:
✅ Expert English-speaking local guides
✅ Carefully planned itineraries to match your pace
✅ Quality bicycles and van support
✅ Homestays with authentic meals and cultural activities
✅ Stress-free booking at goldencyclingtours.com
They handle everything—you just show up and enjoy the ride.
“Ma Phuc was a beautiful ride—just challenging enough, with so many stunning views. Golden Cycling Tours made the whole trip effortless.”
— Jessica F., Canada
“It was my first multi-day tour in Vietnam, and Ma Phuc was the highlight. Peaceful roads, incredible landscape, and wonderful people.”
— Marco R., Italy
“As a beginner cyclist, I was nervous. But this route was perfect. Smooth climb, amazing scenery, and great support from the tour team.”
— Hannah L., UK
The main climb is about 3.5 km, with a gentle gradient that makes it accessible for most riders.
Yes. The road is well-paved, with minimal traffic. Local drivers are used to sharing the road with bicycles.
A road bike or hybrid is suitable. Golden Cycling Tours provides high-quality bikes if you don’t bring your own.
Absolutely. The route is beginner-friendly, and van support is available for those who need rest along the way.
Yes. They are clean, welcoming, and offer a great cultural experience with home-cooked meals and local hospitality.
Ma Phuc Pass cycling is one of Northern Vietnam’s most rewarding cycling experiences—perfect for riders of all levels. From its unique landscape and rich cultural backdrop to its accessibility and scenic beauty, it’s a route that captures the soul of Vietnam.
Let Golden Cycling Tours help you plan the perfect ride through Ma Phuc and beyond. Whether it’s your first tour or your fiftieth, this ride will leave you inspired, recharged, and ready for more.
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