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Guided & Supported

Dirt & Secrets

7 Day Off-Road Motorcycle Tour of North Laos

From Vientiane to Luang Prabang, this ride cuts through the wild heart of Northern Laos. Mountains. Rivers. Hidden histories. We climb to 2,000 metres, carve along twisting forest trails, cross rivers on bamboo bridges and wind through remote tribal villages.

Asia , Laos
Dirt Bike , Trail & Enduro Tours
From: £2740
Rider (Incl. bike rental)
Pillion Friendly?
No
This tour is not pillion-friendly. We ride enduro-style motorcycles that do not accommodate passengers. Additionally, some sections we ride can get technical and the conditions do not allow for a pillion.
Terrain
70% unpaved
Approximately 30% of this route is paved, and 70% is unpaved. In Laos, unpaved roads range from wide gravel roads to technical, rocky single track. Laos is full of wide, fast-flowing tracks that can really be a lot of fun, but it's easy to get caught out by the deep ruts and sandy corners.
Total Distance KM
843
This is the total riding distance from start to finish. This is not exact as all riding distances given are estimates. While we take every step to ensure we deliver the itinerary described on the website, it is important to understand that the routes we take are often farm tracks or footpaths connecting villages. These tracks can become overgrown or wash out between seasons. Our teams use a combination of planning, local knowledge and experience to make sure we always get you to where you are supposed to be. From time to time, however, you might need to be flexible, as there is a lot beyond our control that might mean a route needs to be modified.
Support
Fully supported and guided
Our local guide will ride at the front of the group. Our tour leader, who is trained as a wilderness first response medic, rides at the back of the group (carrying a medical kit), our mechanic also rides at the back of the group, and we have a support vehicle travelling behind the group. The support vehicle carries all of your main luggage, spare parts, water, snacks and further med kit & stretcher etc. We also bring a spare rider with us, ready to hop on your bike if you're ill, injured or struggling with the conditions. Back at base, we have a consulting expedition doctor, ready to assist and advise telephonically in the case of a medical emergency. Support is dependent on the size and needs of the tour. This means that each tour could have a different set of support staff.
Airport & Transfers
Arrival: Vientiane International Airport (VTE) Departure: Luang Prabang International Airport (LPQ)
Standard of Accommodation
7 (out of 10)
The standard of accommodation rating primarily reflects the additional amenities and comfortable accommodation options available on tour. It represents our best effort to provide an average rating based on a variety of factors (from the standard idea of what good quality is). On Dirt & Secrets specifically, accommodation varies considerably - some are very nice, while others are rather basic due to limited options off the beaten track. We always aim to find the best option available to us.
Difficulty Rating (overall)
6 (out of 10)
This is our best effort to give an average rating for the trip, based on the average rider. This is subjective though, and will vastly depend on your own riding experience and ability. It can also vary depending on the weather conditions during your trip, and other factors such as technical off-road riding required to clear certain areas, and your fitness level. There's no shortage of technical riding on this tour, particularly if the weather takes a turn for the worse. Laos has lots of red clay, so when the weather is dry, it can get very dusty which can become mentally tiring. If it's raining the terrain gets very slippery which can test even the most seasoned rider. Even in the winter months, Laos can get incredibly hot; it's not uncommon to see temperatures over 40°C. Moreover, Laos experiences a tropical climate with two main seasons: a wet season from May to October and a dry season from November to April, with the hottest months being March and April. The seasons affect the terrain as well as the average difficulty rating. If you are unsure about your riding capability in the different seasons, please get in touch with us. If you're in any doubt about your riding ability or if this difficulty rating concerns you, we strongly recommend you arrange a chat with one of our experienced tour leaders.
Average Daily Ride Hours
5 - 7
Generally, we depart early. Some of the days in Laos can be quite long. The schedule can be a little tight and we often need to keep a decent pace. If it's a big group and there is a split in ability, or if things aren't going quite to plan, you should anticipate longer than normal days. While we plan for days with no more than 6 riding hours, we quite often find that adventure does not care for your plans.
KEY INFO

Tour Snapshot

Pillion Friendly?
No
This tour is not pillion-friendly. We ride enduro-style motorcycles that do not accommodate passengers. Additionally, some sections we ride can get technical and the conditions do not allow for a pillion.
Support
Fully supported and guided
Our local guide will ride at the front of the group. Our tour leader, who is trained as a wilderness first response medic, rides at the back of the group (carrying a medical kit), our mechanic also rides at the back of the group, and we have a support vehicle travelling behind the group. The support vehicle carries all of your main luggage, spare parts, water, snacks and further med kit & stretcher etc. We also bring a spare rider with us, ready to hop on your bike if you're ill, injured or struggling with the conditions. Back at base, we have a consulting expedition doctor, ready to assist and advise telephonically in the case of a medical emergency. Support is dependent on the size and needs of the tour. This means that each tour could have a different set of support staff.
Terrain
70% unpaved
Approximately 30% of this route is paved, and 70% is unpaved. In Laos, unpaved roads range from wide gravel roads to technical, rocky single track. Laos is full of wide, fast-flowing tracks that can really be a lot of fun, but it's easy to get caught out by the deep ruts and sandy corners.
Standard of Accommodation
7 (out of 10)
The standard of accommodation rating primarily reflects the additional amenities and comfortable accommodation options available on tour. It represents our best effort to provide an average rating based on a variety of factors (from the standard idea of what good quality is). On Dirt & Secrets specifically, accommodation varies considerably - some are very nice, while others are rather basic due to limited options off the beaten track. We always aim to find the best option available to us.
Difficulty Rating (overall)
6 (out of 10)
This is our best effort to give an average rating for the trip, based on the average rider. This is subjective though, and will vastly depend on your own riding experience and ability. It can also vary depending on the weather conditions during your trip, and other factors such as technical off-road riding required to clear certain areas, and your fitness level. There's no shortage of technical riding on this tour, particularly if the weather takes a turn for the worse. Laos has lots of red clay, so when the weather is dry, it can get very dusty which can become mentally tiring. If it's raining the terrain gets very slippery which can test even the most seasoned rider. Even in the winter months, Laos can get incredibly hot; it's not uncommon to see temperatures over 40°C. Moreover, Laos experiences a tropical climate with two main seasons: a wet season from May to October and a dry season from November to April, with the hottest months being March and April. The seasons affect the terrain as well as the average difficulty rating. If you are unsure about your riding capability in the different seasons, please get in touch with us. If you're in any doubt about your riding ability or if this difficulty rating concerns you, we strongly recommend you arrange a chat with one of our experienced tour leaders.
Average Daily Ride Hours
5 - 7
Generally, we depart early. Some of the days in Laos can be quite long. The schedule can be a little tight and we often need to keep a decent pace. If it's a big group and there is a split in ability, or if things aren't going quite to plan, you should anticipate longer than normal days. While we plan for days with no more than 6 riding hours, we quite often find that adventure does not care for your plans.
Total Distance KM
843
This is the total riding distance from start to finish. This is not exact as all riding distances given are estimates. While we take every step to ensure we deliver the itinerary described on the website, it is important to understand that the routes we take are often farm tracks or footpaths connecting villages. These tracks can become overgrown or wash out between seasons. Our teams use a combination of planning, local knowledge and experience to make sure we always get you to where you are supposed to be. From time to time, however, you might need to be flexible, as there is a lot beyond our control that might mean a route needs to be modified.
Airport & Transfers
Arrival: Vientiane International Airport (VTE) Departure: Luang Prabang International Airport (LPQ)
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Hidden Trails and Untold Stories

Tour Overview

DIRT ‘n’ SECRETS.

It does what it says on the tin.

From Vientiane to Luang Prabang, this ride cuts through the wild heart of Northern Laos. Mountains. Rivers. Hidden histories. We climb to 2,000 metres, carve along twisting forest trails, cross rivers on bamboo bridges and wind through remote tribal villages. Visit the mysterious Plain of Jars and ride the old CIA runway at Long Chieng, once ‘the most secret place on Earth’, where a barbecue on the strip and a cold beer at sunset remind you what adventure is all about.

Expect smooth tarmac and rugged dirt, rocky climbs, fast singletrack and cool pine-forest descents. Pair that with incredible food, a rich mix of cultures and the warmest locals in Southeast Asia, and you’ve got raw adventure, guaranteed.

Dirt & Secrets - map

Tour Highlights

Here's a taste of what makes this ride unforgettable.

Ride high into the mountains, surrounded by dramatic karst limestone peaks

Ride high into the mountains, surrounded by dramatic karst limestone peaks.

Explore remote ethnic minority villages still holding on to traditional ways of life

Explore remote ethnic minority villages still holding on to traditional ways of life.

Experience a thrilling mix of dirt and tarmac through the Lao highlands

Experience a thrilling mix of dirt and tarmac through the Lao highlands.

Begin in the capital city of Vientiane, set on the banks of the Mekong River

Begin in the capital city of Vientiane, set on the banks of the Mekong River.

Finish in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Luang Prabang, set at the meeting of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers

Finish in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Luang Prabang, set at the meeting of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers.

Ride Expeditions - Motorcycle Tours - Dirt and Secrets - Stay at Long Chen, an old CIA airbase once known as the Most Secret Place on Earth. We will have a BBQ right there on the runway

Stay in Long Chieng, once the CIA’s ‘Most Secret Place on Earth’, and enjoy a BBQ right on the old runway.

Laos Motorcycle Tour

Cross rivers and ride through flowing streams deep in the forest.

Tour Itinerary

WHAT'S INCLUDED AND WHAT'S NOT?

Plan your Adventure

Here’s exactly what’s covered (and what’s not), so you can hit the road fully loaded and stress-free. From meals to mileage, it’s all laid out right here.

Inclusions, Exclusions & Extras

YOUR ADVENTURE STEED

The Motorcycles

A trusty adventure steed comes as standard, perfect for this trip and raring to go. If you fancy something with a bit more bite… have a peek.

Bike Disclaimer: Bike models may vary due to ongoing fleet upgrades.

CHOOSE YOUR DATE HERE

Dates & Pricing

Pick a departure that works for you, then explore what’s included, upgrade bike options and optional extras, all in one neat booking card.
    2026
    November 8, 2026 – November 14, 2026
    Dirt & Secrets November 8 2026 booking details
    Tour price
    Rider (Incl. Kawasaki KLX 250)
    £2,740
    Rider (own bike)
    £2,375
    The motorcycles

    (Bike Disclaimer: Bike models may vary due to ongoing fleet upgrades.)

    Kawasaki KLX 250
    Included
    Optional extras
    Damage Waiver
    + £70
    Single Room Supplement
    + £335
    TOUR PICS

    Dirt & Secrets

    A glimpse into life on the road. Real moments from real riders, the scenery, the stories, and everything in between. This is what adventure looks like.

    Why Ride With Us?

    No guesswork. No cut corners. A proper ride.

    Anyone can stitch together a route and call it an adventure.
    But what happens when the day gets long, the road gets rough, and things stop going to plan?

    We build our trips properly, test them thoroughly, and back them with the crew and support that let you focus on the ride, not the logistics.

    The ride you came for. The support you need.

    Choose Date
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    Dirt & Secrets
    from £2740 · Guided & Supported
    Book 12 months ahead, save 5% i Book at least 12 months before departure and save 5% off the base price. Excludes flights and extras. Subject to availability.