Experience the Best Ha Giang Loops in Northern Vietnam

Perched high in the breathtaking landscapes of Northern Vietnam, a spectacular serpentine route winds through majestic peaks, lush forests, and pristine streams that shimmer like threads of silver under the sun. The Ha Giang Loop is known for its steep passes, winding bends, and hairpin turns, making it a visually stunning and exhilarating journey. This route not only provides an adrenaline rush but also presents challenges that many travellers find rewarding to overcome. It is a unique adventure that showcases the natural beauty and culture of the region, making it a must-visit for those seeking an unforgettable experience. This enchanting route, called the Ha Gian Loop, pronounced Hah-Gyang Loop or Hi Jian Loop, promises to be one of your most daring adventures, with every moment a deep connection to nature that stays with you long after the ride ends.

After my previous journey through Vietnam, I yearned to lose myself again in this remarkable journey’s exhilarating beauty and rich experiences. In this Ha Giang travel blog, I share my incredible 4-day Ha Giang adventure and provide all the information for visiting the region. Additionally, I answer frequently asked questions about various Easy Rider Tours, the best time to go, and the key stops along the Ha Giang Northern Loop.

the Ha Giang Loop Guide

What is the Ha Giang Loop?

The exhilarating Ha Gian Loop route is a challenging scenic route that stretches over 350 km and traverses Northern Vietnam’s Ha Giang province. This region of Southeast Asia gained popularity after being featured in the BBC series Top Gear during its Vietnam Special 2008. Despite the increased tourism across Vietnam, Hà Giang remains relatively untouched and is an ideal destination for those seeking a nature-filled adventure.

Best Time to do the Ha Giang Loop

While each season in Vietnam has its unique charm, spring is generally the best month to explore the Ha Giang Loop. The ideal months to embark on the Ha Giang Loop are from September to November and March to May, with fewer rain chances, pleasant weather and green surroundings.

Ha Giang loop how many days

When organising your Ha Giang Loop itinerary, there are multiple options—the complete circular route measures around 350 km, not including any additional side roads. Travellers can book a guided fixed tour lasting anywhere from 2 to 4 days to experience the loop. Alternatively, exploring specific sections of the loop, including less-travelled paths, is an excellent option for those seeking more independence. Additionally, arranging for a private guide can enhance your journey by focusing on particular regions of interest that you wish to explore.

Vietnam Ha Giang Loop Tour Options

• A 2-day Ha Giang tour will only cover a small portion of the route.
• The 3-day Ha Giang Loop lets you quickly explore the main loop and its key highlights.
• The 4-day Ha Giang loop tour balances riding and sightseeing, offering a more relaxed pace.
• A 5-day Ha Giang tour will enable you to venture off the beaten path and explore the region’s hidden gems and villages.

Other FAQ

• Where is the Ha Giang Loop? The scenic route is located in the northernmost part of Vietnam’s Ha Giang Province, 300 km north of Hanoi and 240 km east of Sapa. Ha Giang City serves as the gateway to the popular Ha Giang Loop.
• How safe is the Ha Giang Loop? The most common question is whether the Ha Giang loop is safe or dangerous unless you are an experienced driver. If not, the Ha Giang Loop motorbike journey is generally much safer with an Easy Rider.
• Can I do the Ha Giang Loop Solo? Absolutely. That’s precisely what I did, and I had a fantastic experience.
• What should you pack for a Ha Giang tour? Based on experience, here is The Best Packing list for the Ha Giang Loop.

How to do the Ha Giang Loop

There’s no better way to embrace the essence of this region than on two wheels, where every turn reveals a new tableau of stunning vistas. To embark on the breathtaking adventure of the Ha Giang Loop, you have two options: either with an experienced easy rider or self-driving. Both experiences offer unique perspectives on this picturesque region filled with dramatic mountains, lush valleys, and charming villages.

1. Join an Easy Rider

One of the most popular options is to book a guided Ha Giang Loop Easy Rider tour. This allows you to relax and soak in the stunning scenery without the stress of navigating the winding roads. As a passenger, you can enjoy the views without worrying about driving challenges. Often, self-drivers eventually switch to the easy rider option to enjoy the scenery without concentrating on the dangerous road. Below, I share my experience, what to pack, and information on the several Ha Giang Loop Vietnam Tour options. 

2. Self-drive

If you’re planning a self-driving trip along the challenging Ha Giang route, you need to consider the following essential points:

• You must be an experienced driver as the roads can be challenging, with sharp twists and slippery surfaces when wet.
• Ha Giang Loop requirements: To legally ride a motorbike in Vietnam, you need a valid license and an International Driving Permit (IDP). To obtain a Ha Giang permit, visit the immigration office in Ha Giang City, 415a, Tran Phu Street.
• Make sure your travel insurance covers you in Vietnam.
• Safety tips for riding on the Ha Giang Loop: Familiarise yourself with basic motorcycle mechanics to handle minor issues that may arise.
• Ensure your bike is reliable and equipped with all necessary safety gear. Remember that quality comes at a price, so don’t compromise.
• There are several bike rental shops in Ha Giang. Make sure you understand the rental terms and conditions.
• Due to limited reception, get a Ha Giang Loop Map. Moreover, hiring a local guide can help you navigate challenging routes and see the highlights.

My 4-day Ha Giang Loop experience

After researching and considering all options for the Ha Giang Loop, I decided to book with QT Motorbike Tours because they claim to be the pioneers of the Ha Giang Loop, and their itinerary includes a visit to the Lung Cu Flag Tower. I chose the 4-day Ha Giang loop tour for my trip. Since it is a long journey from Hanoi to the Ha Giang Loop and back, I opted for a 4-day tour as I didn’t wanna miss out on anything. Although that is not so, I recommend booking one of the 3-day Ha Giang Loop tours.

Day 1 (170km)

After Breakfast, we joined other groups on the 2- and 3-day tours. We were given a driver and shown our schedule for the day. Dǒ, my Easy Rider, was also our tour leader and an excellent driver and Group leader. We departed from Ha Giang City and headed to Quan Ba district, passing through Thai An along the Bac Sum Pass with breathtaking views of Duong Thuong Valley.

Lung Khuy Cave

The journey led us through lush landscapes to the famous Lung Khuy Cave, also known as Hang Lùng Khúy. Although it was a long, uphill walk to reach the cave, one gets rewarded with stunning formations.

We made our way to the cosy homestay nestled in the heart of Can Ty, a perfect retreat where we could unwind. As the sun set, we gathered around the table filled with Vietnamese dishes. After our meal, we embraced the lively spirit of the evening with karaoke, singing our hearts out and sharing stories amidst laughter and camaraderie. The night drifted on as we enjoyed each other’s company, finally retreating to our room, ready for a restful night’s sleep.

Day 2 on the Loop (180km)

Breakfast on the Loop consists of a simple breakfast of either eggs with bread, pancakes with honey, or the traditional Vietnamese breakfast, which consists of Soup with noodles, tea or Coffee. From our homestay, we traversed the awe-inspiring Ma Pi Leng Pass and the iconic Tham Ma Pass, both part of the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark.

Tham Ma Pass Vietnam

Then, continue to the mesmerising curvy Tham Ma Pass, which is about 5 km and 1500 meters high. Considered one of the most hazardous passes in the northern region, the road continues through Hmong villages and leads to Yen Minh Town. Along the curvy M-road, we were treated to picturesque mountains on both sides.

The lovely stop is where children from ethnic groups dressed in traditional costumes show off baskets filled with flowers. Some local vendors set up stalls selling coffee and other refreshments. It was freezing, and we could buy coffee or something to warm us up.

We arrived at the charming town of Meo Vac, with a small local market. From there, we walked to the striking Vua Meo Mansion, the Hmong King Palace, and surrounding ethnic houses. The grand Hmong King’s Palace offered a glimpse into the region’s rich culture. Next, we were supposed to drive to the northernmost point of Vietnam, the Lung Cu Flag Tower. At the Tower, there are 400 steps to reach the top with promising views of the Vietnam-China border.

Unfortunately, a thick fog descended, leaving us unable to see anything. So, instead, we explored a border belt where the two countries meet. After lunch in Dong Van Town, we drove along the scenic sky path. Travelling through the Ma Pi Leng Pass to reach the Cliff of Death and Tu San Canyon. A highlight is stopping at a viewpoint to admire the Nho Que River.

Nque River Vietnam

At the base of the canyon, travellers can board a boat for a cruise on the clear azure waters of the Nho Que River. The river flows from China through the limestone cliffs of the Dong Van Karst Plateau. During the hour-long cruise, guests can enjoy the tranquil scenery and the refreshing experience of gliding over the river.

After an exhilarating day exploring the Ha Giang Loop map during our four-day tour, we arrived at our homestay in Meo Vac. We enjoyed hot showers and relaxed with ice-cold drinks while discussing our experiences from the day. The evening continued with dinner, and some group members, including me, decided to turn in early for some much-needed rest. Meanwhile, others chose to stay up and enjoy a karaoke session.

Ha Giang Loop Day 3

After breakfast, we headed to Meo Vac Town, where we visited the local Meo Vac market. From there, we continued the Sa Ly Pass, which connects Meo Vac Town to Mau Due Commune. In Mau Due Town, we enjoyed lunch before continuing our journey through Lung Ho Village. We stopped at a roadside café and savoured the best coconut coffee while enjoying the beautiful scenery. This is where I had the best Coconut Coffee in all of Vietnam.

The Du Gia Valley

Driving through Ha Giang, especially on the famous loop, you will mostly see rugged mountains. However, when you reach Du Gia, you will find a beautiful green valley filled with rice fields, surrounded by stunning mountains and small villages. Du Gia is about 70 km from Ha Giang City and 75 km from Meo Vac, each taking about 3 hours in each direction.

The Du Gia Commune is located in the Yen Minh district of Ha Giang Province. It comprises approximately 15 villages, each representing nine distinct ethnic groups, highlighting the region’s rich cultural diversity. Not all Ha Giang Loop tours include a visit to Du Gia. Still, most 4-day or longer Ha Giang itineraries include visiting the Du Gia waterfalls and overnight in Du Gia.

Du Gia Waterfall

After an exciting day, we drove to our Du Gia homestay through the scenic valleys. Later, we gathered around the table to savour local dishes, feeling nostalgic on our last evening of this unforgettable trip. The night turned lively with a spirited karaoke session. We took turns at the microphone and sang our favourite songs. We had so much fun and laughter with songs evoking memories. It was a perfect conclusion to our journey.

Day 4 on Ha Giang Loop

On our last day, we had breakfast and hit the road at 9 o’clock, driving slowly through Du Gia Village and Duong Village. I recommend doing the 3-day Ha Giang Loop, as day 4 wasn’t as exciting as the first three days. After having lunch at a local homestay, we drove to a lookout point at Heaven Gate.

We journeyed through the Bắc Sum Pass before Ha Giang City, from where we were taken to QT’s Buffalo Hostel. That’s where we could shower and order dinner, seeing that we’d all spent the night on an overnight bus. We were taken to Ha Giang town much later, where we waited for our overnight buses. It was clear that they wanted to make money, as we could eat much cheaper at one of the many restaurants in Ha Giang city.

Food on the Ha Giang Loop

We were given a litre of water every morning to stay hydrated for the journey ahead. For those needing extra refreshment, additional water and a variety of snacks were available for purchase throughout the day. Along the route, you will find several charming cafes and cosy coffee shops that provide a variety of refreshments. In addition, local vendors often set up stalls, offering freshly grilled food, coffee, and other refreshments for those looking to enjoy a quick bite or drink.

How to Get to Ha Giang

No airport or train station is nearby; it is only accessible by road. The best way to get there is by taking one of the buses that run day and night from the capital, ranging from sleepers to smaller VIP mini-vans. Fortunately, the VIP overnight sleeper buses are very comfortable, and one can sleep while travelling. That way, you also save on a night’s accommodation. These buses vary in comfort, so choosing a reputable bus service is advisable to ensure a pleasant trip.

Ha Giang Two-Day Itinerary

If you opt for a Ha Giang two-day tour, you will probably start along the Bac Son Pass in the breathtaking Bac Son Valley and Quan Ba Heaven Gate. From Twin Mountains, go through the Can Ty Pass to Yen Minh Town and the Tham Ma Pass to Hmong King’s Palace and finish in Dong Van Town.

On the second day, Venture along the QL4C route northeast to Dong Van, then on to Meo Vac before continuing to Du Gia Village. Before stopping at the Lung Cam Culture Tourism Village, you can conquer the captivating Tham Ma and Chin Khoanh Passes. Then, the road ascends, revealing stunning limestone karsts with spectacular views before reaching the Dốc Chín Khoanh (Nine Turn Pass).

The Ha Giang Loop Highlights

Quan Ba

On your Ha Giang Journey, Quan Ba will likely be your first or last stop after Ha Giang Town before leaving the province. It is home to Heaven’s Gate, a highlight 1500 meters above sea level, the gateway to the neighbouring Dong Van Plateau. From the pinnacle of Heaven Gate, with a captivating view of Tam Son town. Tham Ma Pass viewpoint is, without a doubt, a highlight.

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Ha Giang Caves

• Lung Khuy Cave, the largest Cave in the Dong Van Karst Plateau, is about 3 km outside town and boasts impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
• The 2km deep Kho My Cave is about 20km outside Tam Son town in a verdant green forest.

Lung Cu Tower

You can hike up to the 30-meter-tall tower at Vietnam’s northernmost point, where the Vietnamese flag is displayed. Reaching the summit, you’ll be treated to a panoramic view of the surrounding area and China. The best time to visit is in the late afternoon, as it makes the 200-step climb more comfortable. Admission at the time of writing is approximately 25,000 VND.

Vuong Palace

An excellent destination to include in your Ha Giang Loop journey is the small village of Sa Phin, home to the intriguing Vuong Palace. Referred to as the Vuong family mansion, this site is known as the “Opium Palace” because of its stone and wood carvings with patterns of poppy flowers and fruits.

Costs for doing the Ha Giang loop 

The cost of the Ha Giang Loop itinerary varies based on several factors. Still, it is primarily determined by the number of days you spend on the road and your choice of accommodation. Whether you prefer luxury hotels, cosy rooms, or homestays will also influence the overall cost. Learn more about pricing and options for a four-day motorbike trip from Hanoi, Sapa, and Ha Giang itineraries on: the-best-ha-giang-loop-tour-4-days-4-nights-from-Hanoi.

My opinion on QT Motorbike Tours / Ha Giang Buffalo Tours

The drivers at Easy Rider were highly skilled and made the experience remarkable. Their expertise matched our group’s needs well, enhancing the overall journey. I selected QT Motorbike Tours after conducting thorough research, as they are recognised as a leading provider of tours of the Ha Giang Loop. A key factor in my decision was their itinerary, which included visiting Lung Cu Tower; however, we could not see it due to foggy weather conditions.

When planning a tour of the Ha Giang Loop, it’s advisable to consider alternatives to QT/Buffalo Tours. While I didn’t expect luxury accommodations, some facilities were lacking. The food was generally excellent, though the hot pot was an exception. Karaoke nights were fun and lively, with staff enthusiastic about serving their “happy water.” However, some guests overindulged and felt unwell, which raises concerns about the emphasis on promoting heavy drinking to boost sales.

Where to Stay

When visiting the Ha Giang Loop, you have different accommodation choices. If you book a tour, accommodations are usually included in hostels, although you can pay extra for a private room. For self-driving travellers who are not part of a group tour, there are several Accommodation options in Ha Giang and on the loop. Your choice will depend on your personal preferences, with homestays offering an authentic experience of the local culture.

Homestays and Hostels

Ha Giang Homestays: While the homestays in Ha Giang may not have the same amenities as hotels, they provide basic facilities, such as hot water and toilets. Some homestays even offer WiFi. By staying with an ethnic minority family, you can learn more about their culture, daily lives, and cuisine. While some homestays resemble small hotels and provide a more private atmosphere, you may miss out on the genuine local experience.

Ha Giang Vegetarian Homestay and Restaurant Ha Giang Vegetarian Homestay and Restaurant is a recently renovated bed and breakfast establishment in Ha Giang with mountain and river views. It features family rooms and a sun terrace. Some units have a private bathroom, and some even have a balcony and free WiFi. Guests can enjoy a buffet or continental breakfast with fresh pastries. The on-site family-friendly restaurant serves lunch, brunch, dinner, and cocktails.

Hostels in Ha Giang

The Ha Giang Hostel: Bong Hostel, located on the Ha Giang loop, offers a shared lounge, terrace, restaurant, and bar. In addition to a shuttle service and free WiFi, Guests can enjoy a shared kitchen, a 24-hour front desk, and daily breakfast.

Ha Giang Hotels

Hotels in Ha Giang: Ha Giang City Hotel offers clean rooms, a terrace, and a 24-hour front desk service, including currency exchange. Additional amenities include a kitchen and breakfast options featuring Full English/Irish, American, or Asian dishes.

How much cash should I take? If you’re not too extravagant, take about 3-4 million VND for a 4-day trip. If you run out of money, there are ATM in Quan Ba, Yen Minh, Dong Van, and Meo Vac.

You should know the destinations you want to explore in Vietnam by now. If you haven’t narrowed your options, I recommend starting with my comprehensive Vietnam Traveling Guide. The Guide provides valuable insights, tips, and suggestions that will give you more clarity.  

If you return to Hanoi after completing the thrilling Loop Journey, experience Hanoi’s top attractions. Alternatively, you might consider continuing your adventure in the mountainous region of Sapa or the best islands along Vietnam’s coastline.

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