The 30-year-old caravan tour operator, MotoTours Asia, designed the trip to immerse participants in the majestic beauty and local culture of the ancient Tea Horse Road, winding through the Himalayas. The three Vietnamese riders were Nguyen Anh Tuan, president of MotoTours Asia; Van Tuan Anh, administrator of the Vietnamese sidecar group "Ba Banh Ba Mien"; and Le Ngoc Tung, a sculptor and sidecar enthusiast.
A challenging route
The group departed from Vietnam, crossed Laos, and entered China, following the Tea Horse Road (Yunnan-Tibet branch) to Everest Base Camp. A MotoTours Asia representative described the journey as challenging, with treacherous plateaus, winding mountain passes, extreme weather changes, and high altitudes. They faced muddy roads, potholes hidden beneath snow and mud, strong winds, and blizzards on the 5,248m Jiacuola Pass. At times, visibility dropped to a few meters, with icy wind and snow hitting their faces and temperatures so low that their lips cracked and fingers went numb. "Despite the difficulties, the group persevered, achieved their goal, and created lasting memories," said Nguyen Anh Tuan, president of MotoTours Asia.
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The group navigated treacherous plateaus, winding mountain passes, and extreme weather conditions. Photo: MotoTours Asia |
The group navigated treacherous plateaus, winding mountain passes, and extreme weather conditions. Photo: MotoTours Asia
Arriving in Tibet in May, the group found the region still blanketed in snow. The towering Himalayas, covered in ice, loomed over valleys shrouded in cold mist, while frozen lakes shimmered under the faint sunlight. Ancient monasteries nestled on the mountainsides, their prayer flags fluttering in the chilly wind. Everest stood majestically, its silvery peak a stark contrast against the gray sky—a symbol of eternity and harsh beauty.
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The group visited ancient monasteries in Tibet. Photo: MotoTours Asia |
The group visited ancient monasteries in Tibet. Photo: MotoTours Asia
According to the MotoTours Asia representative, the harsh weather conditions, including blizzards, strong winds, and low temperatures, posed significant dangers, reduced visibility, and created slippery roads. Participants faced altitude sickness and oxygen deprivation. The self-drive nature of the journey, combined with complex terrain, hairpin turns, and damaged roads, demanded advanced driving skills. Despite the numerous challenges, the group's teamwork and resilience helped them overcome adversity.
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The group experienced many majestic landscapes during their journey. Photo: MotoTours Asia |
The group experienced many majestic landscapes during their journey. Photo: MotoTours Asia
Trip preparation
Thorough preparation, both mentally and physically, is crucial for a safe and fulfilling journey, according to the MotoTours Asia representative. Participants can drive their own vehicles from Vietnam or use MotoTours Asia’s Chang Jiang CJ750 sidecars in China. Vehicles must undergo thorough inspections, including the engine, brakes, tires, and spare parts.
Specialized motorcycle clothing, layered warm clothing, waterproof gear, thermal gloves, woolen hats, scarves, and snow boots are essential. Personal items should include UV-protective sunglasses, SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm, a thermos, snacks, and a basic vehicle repair kit.
Given the demanding nature of the trip, participants must be in good health, physically fit, acclimated to high altitudes, and carry appropriate medication (the organizer provides altitude sickness medication).
According to Nguyen Anh Tuan, anyone wishing to undertake this self-drive journey needs physical training and should consult with MotoTours Asia advisors. Choosing a reputable organizer is essential to ensure a well-planned, safe, and age-appropriate program, especially for middle-aged participants. Individuals should also thoroughly familiarize themselves with their vehicles, perform meticulous maintenance, carry basic repair tools, pack appropriate clothing for warmth and waterproofing, and prioritize health maintenance in cold conditions.
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The group conquered the ancient Tea Horse Road. Photo: MotoTours Asia |
The group conquered the ancient Tea Horse Road. Photo: MotoTours Asia
With 30 years of experience organizing cross-border caravan tours, MotoTours Asia offers a 16-day Tea Horse Road itinerary through Vietnam, Laos, Yunnan, Tibet, and Everest Base Camp, in addition to tours in South America and Central Asia. Participants drive one way for 16 days, and the company transports the vehicles from Lhasa back to their homes after the tour.
"Our philosophy is not about racing, but about enjoyment. We prioritize safety, health, fun, and teamwork over speed. This type of tour is suitable for people aged 40 and above," said a company representative.
Yen Chi
