Nestled in the remote highlands of Vietnam, Ta Xua is a hidden gem renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and unspoiled natural beauty. Famous for its Dinosaur Spine mountain ridge and stunning cloud formations, Ta Xua is a paradise for adventure seekers and nature lovers. One of the best ways to experience the charm and rugged terrain of this region is by motorbike. This guide will help you navigate your journey to Ta Xua, covering everything from getting there by motorbike, to accommodation and food options, and the top activities to enjoy in this picturesque locale.
Getting to Ta Xua by Motorbike
Located in the North of Vietnam, Ta Xua is included on some of Norther Routes. You can head there straight from Hanoi, the journey to Ta Xua is approximately 200 kilometers and can be covered in about 5-6 hours via motorbike, depending on the route and stops along the way. Heading West out of Hanoi you can take the more direct road with the QL32 or stick to the quieter smaller roads hugging the South side of the Red River until Son Tay. From here you cross the Da River then follow the QL32. This road is quite busy at times but nothing to worry about. You will then change to the QL32B then the QL37 before reaching Ta Xua.
You can also head to Ta Xua from Moc Chau, Mai Chau or Pu Luong. Ta Xua is about 100km North of Moc Chau following the QL43 then the QL37. This route includes a short ferry ride to cross the Da River. The ferry runs continuously all day and is very affordable. It takes about 3 hours to reach Ta Xua from Moc Chau. With Mai Chau being a further 60km, roughly 1 hour and 30 mins.
The route between Moc Chau and Ta Xua is a very nice ride. Much of it being on smaller, quieter roads and nice views of the river on the North side of the Da River after the ferry crossing.
Leaving Ta Xua to the North has a few options. You can head to Son La by heading West via the QL37 then the AH13. The road is wider and not as scenic but takes less time. The ride further North from Son La is very nice with passes, mountain views and a lake.
The road North leads to Nghia Lo. It is a stunning mountain road with many twists and turns and great views throughout. Be aware that this road is prone to landsides in bad weather. If the area has been hit by a storm recently it is best to check with your homestay that the route is ok before heading out.
Accommodation
Ta Xua offers a variety of accommodation options, ranging from basic homestays to more comfortable and luxurious options. The views even from the basic options will surprise you with their beauty. Whilst some of the more luxury options might include a swimming pool or a roof top balcony with the best views.
Most of accommodations offer a choice between dorm rooms for a cheaper option and private rooms. It is easier and better to book in advance for these accommodations as they are more spread out. You don’t want to have to turn up and find it is full and then drive to another homestay.
The best views and generally homestays are located off the main road and towards the mountains and the Dinosaur Spine so that you can enjoy the nature which makes Ta Xua so special. The above picture is from Ta Xua Ecolodge.
Food
Food in Ta Xua is simple, home cooked meals with the homestays. This is in part due to the homestays being more further apart and the area itself does not have many local restaurants.
The nearest town, Bac Yen, does have many restaurants and options for food but it is a 30 mins drive from the main road near most of the homestays, even further if you are staying closer to the Dinosaur Spine.
Having a good meal in the homestay is another good reason to book in advance so that they know you are coming and will have food prepared for you.
What to Do in Ta Xua
Dinosaur Spine
The mountainous terrain of Ta Xua is perfect for hiking and trekking with the dinosaur spine being the most famous and unique place to see. To get here you need a motorbike. It is about 12km from the main road and can take 30 mins. The road is a small paved road with views into the mountain range and valley the whole way.
Once you get to the dinosaur spine then you can walk along to the end of the ridge. Here there is a viewpoint with the best view. If you have the right bike, are experienced and are feeling brave then it is possible to ride your motorbike until the end. I would not recommend this though as the it is a steep drop on both sides.
Star Gazing and Meteor Shower
Ta Xua, with its high altitude and remote location, offers some of the clearest and most breathtaking night skies in Vietnam. Far from the city lights, the dark skies of Ta Xua are perfect for stargazing. The clear skies providing an awe-inspiring view of the stars above. During certain times of the year, the region also becomes an excellent vantage point for watching meteor showers.
Cloud Hunting
Cloud hunting in Ta Xua is an exhilarating experience that draws nature enthusiasts and photographers to this mountainous region. Renowned for its “sea of clouds”, It offers spectacular cloud formations that roll over the verdant peaks and valleys, creating a surreal, dreamlike landscape. The best time for cloud hunting is early in the morning or late in the afternoon. This is when the clouds are most likely to form and linger. Popular spots like the Dinosaur Spine ridge provide panoramic viewpoints where visitors can witness this ethereal beauty. As you stand above the clouds, watching them drift and dance beneath you, the sheer tranquility and majesty of nature are deeply captivating.
Hot Springs
There are some hot springs in the surrounding areas. It is easier to stop at either on the way to or from Ta Xua. One such hot spring is Ban Mai Retraet.
The natural thermal springs are renowned for their therapeutic properties, providing a perfect way to unwind and revitalize amidst stunning natural surroundings. The waters, rich in minerals, are believed to aid in relieving stress, improving circulation, and soothing muscle aches. This is especially true after some long days motorbiking.
Ta Xua Summary
Ta Xua is a captivating destination that promises an unforgettable adventure for those exploring Vietnam by motorbike. The views and mountains in this area offer some of the most unique and different views in Vietnam. It is still an unknown area amongst tourists and is still a hidden gem of the North of Vietnam.