“Amazing! Only in Vietnam!” said Matthew, an American tourist, expressing his excitement about the Easy Riders – a special group of motorbike tour guides based in Da Lat.
Across the Country on Two Wheels
The Easy Riders, operating under the Dalat Motorcycle Tourism Transport Cooperative, consist of 43 members. Most are fluent in English, and some even speak German, French, or Chinese. With their own office and the website https://easyrider.vn they guide travelers all across Vietnam – from the northern highlands of Ha Giang to the southern tip of Ca Mau.
Formed in 1991 by former language teachers, the team combined their love for travel and foreign languages to create the country’s first and only motorbike tourism group at that time. Over the years, they’ve improved their cultural and historical knowledge to better serve international tourists.
“Come as Guests, Leave as Friends”
In the early days, travelers were hesitant to hop on motorcycles like Win or Bonus. But the team’s sincerity and professionalism gradually earned trust. A major turning point came in 1999 when they launched their website, attracting growing interest from international travelers and travel publications.
“We strive to maintain a good image of Vietnam in the eyes of tourists. Our motto is ‘Come as guests, leave as friends’,” said team supervisor Hoang Van Hong.
They’re more than drivers—they’re companions. Many guests are moved by the warmth and hospitality of Vietnamese people. Some stop mid-journey to help local farmers, or like the former U.S. veteran who embraced a Vietnamese war veteran along the Ho Chi Minh Trail—sharing smiles and tears, and echoing the message of reconciliation.
A Profession with Heart
Joining the team is no easy feat. Candidates undergo a rigorous 3-month trial and only guide short tours if they pass. “This job requires heart. We’re not just transporters, we’re cultural ambassadors for Vietnam,” Hong explained.
The cooperative is now led by Nguyen Van Thien (born 1979), who holds international guide certifications and licenses in transport management. Thanks to its structured and disciplined operation, Easy Riders have been featured in many prominent travel magazines worldwide.