Breathtaking Ha Giang Loop Tour: Conquer Vietnam’s Wildest 4-Day Ride!
Table of Contents
Ha Giang Loop is a 350 km motorbike route through Vietnam’s northern karst mountains which counts among one of the country’s most breathtaking road trip.
This famous motorbike circuit through Vietnam’s far north is renowned for its jagged limestone peaks and ethnic hill-tribe villages. In recent years it became a viral must-do on TikTok/Instagram.
In this travel guide, we're going to outline everything one needs to know about the Ha Giang Loop: starting from how to get there from Hanoi to what's considered the best time of year to visit.
We will also delve into details of the trip: how to obtain a travel permit, the average cost, and which tour company to opt for.
Why Ha Giang Loop is a must-do for adventure lovers?
Ha Giang Loop does not feel like just a road trip in Vietnam to be honest. You get to see one of the prettiest views in Vietnam which you would not if you were just following the general tourist trail which almost everyone coming to Vietnam follows.
It's winding up and down immense mountains and deep valleys. Terraced rice fields, meandering rivers, and time-locked villages swept past. Each bend has a panoramic view-so the entire ride may turn out to be very memorable.
Although not only for the view, it is also a thrilling ride; some crazy turns and steep hills one gets on some tougher roads around this loop make it super popular among motorcycle fans.
It's a great loop, a cultural feeling; going through villages with all kinds of ethnic groups living in it, each one of them having its cool traditions and ways of living. Definitely one great way to dive into the rich cultural mix in North Vietnam.
Preparing for Your Journey: What You Need to Know
Before starting your road trip for the Ha Giang Loop, there are a couple of things you should know. Believe me, this trip is not for the faint-hearted; in advance, you have to get your head and body ready.
First thing, riding a motorcycle you really just have to be relaxed. Those roads that make up that loop, no joke: really sharp turns, steep hills. If you haven't been riding a lot, maybe you should consider taking a few classes.
Another thing you need to be prepared for is the weather. The climate in Ha Giang can be quite random, with sudden rain showers and foggy vibes. Don't forget to prepare appropriate clothes and gear.
So, one has to plan a route pretty well. The loop is over 300 kilometers long and takes a couple of days to complete. One also has to decide where to crash for the night and what cool stuff you want to see on the way.
Distance:
~350 km (217 mile) total loop.
Duration:
The whole loop normally takes 3-5 days to finish.
Difficulty Level:
Moderate difficulty with steep, winding mountain roads. Roads are rough/dangerous if you do not have prior mountain driving experience.
Accommodation:
Homestays and guesthouses which are quite basic (Do not expect Luxury amenities of 5 star hotels!). We recommend Bong Hostel in Ha Giang for clean, affordable dorm/private rooms.
Attractions:
Quan Ba Heaven Gate
Hauling yourself up to 1,500 meters, you'll finally hit Quan Ba Heaven Gate where the Twin Mountains rise like bosoms from the earth (locals aren't shy about the comparison!) and the Tam Son Valley sprawls below like a green patchwork quilt. There's this rickety little coffee shack at the top-nothing fancy, but damn if that chocolate or Vietnamese cà phê doesn't taste incredible with your legs dangling over misty nothingness.
Most people rush through, but do yourself a favor and stop at that half-way parking spot. A short, somewhat slippery climb up some worn steps reveals a view that'll make your Instagram followers properly jealous-H'mong villages scattered like confetti across rolling hills.
Here is the google maps location for the Quan Ba Heaven gate. With over 4.3k reviews and an average rating of 4.5 stars (as of May 2025), you can get an idea if its worth it or not!
Ma Pi Leng Pass
They call it the "King of Passes" for good reason-Ma Pi Leng is where white-knuckled motorbike riders earn their stripes. The road clings to cliffs like it was an afterthought, carved by workers dangling from ropes back in the '60s (seriously). From the top, you're literally eye-level with clouds, surrounded by jagged emerald peaks that stretch forever, while the Nho Que River winds like a turquoise thread hundreds of meters below. It's that spot where everyone stops for the same damn photo, but you'll still take it anyway because, well, how could you not?
Lung Cu Flag Tower
Perched on Rong Mountain's rocky crown at 1,700 meters, Lung Cu Flag Tower is basically Vietnam shouting "this is our northernmost inch!" The 33-meter tower flies a massive red flag that locals will proudly tell you represents their 54 ethnic groups. The 140-step climb leaves you wheezing, but the sweeping views into China's mountains make the burning calves worthwhile.
History buffs eat this stuff up-border territory has changed hands countless times over centuries, and older locals have stories that never made it into textbooks. Location of Lun Cu Flag Tower linked here. It has over 8k google reviews as of writing this article (May 2025) with generally positive rating of 4.6 stars!
Nho Que River & Tu San Canyon
Skip the tourist traps and spend your dong on a wooden boat ride along the Nho Que instead. The boatmen, usually weathered local guys with impressive tans and even more impressive rowing skills, navigate through what they claim is Southeast Asia's deepest canyon.
The water shifts between emerald and turquoise depending on the light, and the acoustics in the canyon turn even the splash of an oar into something magical. Bring beer-you'll want to crack one as limestone giants reflect in mirror-still waters below.
Vuong Family Mansion
Hidden in Sa Phin Valley sits the mansion that opium built-the ridiculously ornate digs of Vuong Chinh Duc, once the region's most powerful Mong chief. The century-old palace feels straight out of a movie set, with a mash-up of Chinese imperial bling and traditional H'mong craftsmanship.
Rumors of secret tunnels and hidden rooms still circulate (the family needed escape routes during opium trade disputes). The guided tour's worth it just to hear about how this mountain warlord managed to play nice with both the French colonizers and Vietnamese authorities while building his empire.
Meo Vac
Meo Vac isn't winning any beauty contests with its concrete buildings, but it's the perfect launchpad for exploring the real treasures nearby. The town really comes alive during the Sunday market, when minority groups descend from surrounding mountains in their finest traditional gear-not for tourists, but because that's how they've always done it. Find a homestay run by Lo Lo or H'mong families instead of a hotel, and you'll likely end up invited to rice wine sessions where one shot is considered rude and five is just getting started. The buckwheat fields bloom pinkish-purple in October, turning valleys into something from a fantasy novel.
Hoang Su Phi Terraced Rice Fields
Hoang Su Phi is what happens when farmers have been sculpting mountains for centuries without an instruction manual. These aren't your Bali-style tourist rice terraces-they're the real deal, carved by Red Dao and Black H'mong hands over generations. Visit in September or October when the rice turns golden, and early morning fog settles between the tiers like something from a Chinese ink painting. The roads to get here are rough as hell, which means fewer tourists and more genuine interactions with locals who might invite you in for a meal if you show genuine interest in their way of life.
Thon Tha Village & Waterfall
Just a quick jaunt from Ha Giang City, Thon Tha feels worlds away from honking horns. This sleepy Tay village is where locals still fish the old-fashioned way and houses stand on stilts above fish ponds. The homestays here aren't fancy-expect thin mattresses on bamboo floors-but the home-cooked meals and bottomless rice wine make up for it. Ask your host to point you toward the nearby waterfall. It's not Victoria Falls, but the swimming hole beneath it is perfect for washing off road dust, and if you're lucky, you'll have it all to yourself while tour groups hit the more famous spots.
Travel from Hanoi to Ha Giang:
Getting to Ha Giang from Hanoi is straightforward: a number of options are available, depending on your budget and how much time you have.
The easiest way to get to Ha Giang is by bus. Several companies are making daily trips from Hanoi to Ha Giang. It will take about 6-8 hours and cost about 200000 VND (around $9).
You can take a train from Hanoi to Lao Cai and then proceed by bus. This will be a bit time-consuming, but believe me, the views you observe on your way are worth seeing.
When in a hurry, one can reach Ha Giang from Hanoi by flight. True, flights take place daily; however, the cost of flying is somewhat higher than taking the bus or train.
Best Time to Do the Ha Giang Loop
The perfect season for traveling around the loop, as from October to April there is no rain. Otherwise, usual conditions are clear and sunny at this time of year; just right for some awesome riding.
Just a little heads-up, the weather in Ha Giang can be quite unpredictable. In the mountainous areas, it gets really cold, especially during the night. Be sure to pack warm clothes even if you go there in the dry season period.
Most people I know made the mistake of underestimating how cold it can get in the mountains of Vietnam, don't be one of them!
Winter (Dec - Feb)
- Temperatures: 5 °C to 15 °C; risk of fog and clouds.
- Highlights: Peach and plum blossoms, Tet celebrations.
- Tip: Pack a down jacket and thermal layers.
Spring (Mar - May)
- Temperatures: 15 °C to 25 °C; clear skies.
- Highlights: Rice terraces turn emerald, low rainfall.
- Tip: Bring a light rain jacket for occasional showers.
Summer (Jun - Aug)
- Temperatures: 20 °C to 30 °C; monsoon rains.
- Highlights: Lush green landscapes, waterfall swims.
- Tip: Waterproof everything and avoid Tham Ma Pass during heavy rain.
Autumn (Sep - Nov)
- Temperatures: 18 °C to 28 °C; mild with golden rice fields.
- Highlights: Buckwheat flowers bloom around November.
- Tip: Schedule to see buckwheat season (late Oct–Nov).
Travel Permit: Understanding the Legalities
Before starting on the Ha Giang Loop, it is now compulsory to obtain a travel permit for every foreigner who wants to pay a visit to Ha Giang Province.
You can obtain it at the Immigration Office for 230,000 VND (around $10) in Ha Giang. Just don't forget to bring your passport and visa information with you.
When you're out on the loop, make sure to have your permit on you. They may ask to see it at various checkpoints while you are out there.
Picking Your Wheels: Bike Rentals and Tips
Selecting the right bike to ride for your Ha Giang trip is as important as its need to be comfy and reliable for the endless hours of riding.
All these factors make most vacationists choose to ride a manual motorcycle, such as the Honda XR 150. This will be muscular enough to overcome those steep hills and bumpy roads of the loop.
But if you are not much for the manual bikes, then there is an automatic version to avail too! Honda Blade is very good in demand due to its easy riding and complete reliability.
If you rent a bike, they assume you'd practically study it. Check for scratches and dents; see if the brakes, lights, and gears are in working order. Record a video of the complete motorbike if possible (that's what I did!) just to be safe.
Don't forget to get a helmet, right? It's very dangerous to travel without one; besides, it is illegal in Vietnam.
Where to Rent a Bike in Ha Giang
There are several places in Ha Giang where you can rent a motorbike. Most hotels and hostels offer this service, and there are also independent rental shops around town.
One of the most reputable rental shops is QT Motorbikes and Tours. They offer a wide range of bikes and also provide detailed maps and advice for the loop.
Another good option is Thong Nguyen Motorbike Rental. They have a variety of bikes to choose from and offer competitive prices.
Tips on Riding and What to Expect on the Road
Riding the circuit can be tough because there are usually narrow and twisty roads, if not used to it, with some sharp turns and steep hills.
You gotta bike at a pace that feels good to you. Take your time, and really stop often to relax and take it in.
Keep an eye on the road ahead, be ready for road condition changes, and pay attention to spot other vehicles, pedestrians, or animals in traffic.
Lastly but not least, do wear appropriate gear: you will need to put on a good helmet and a protective jacket, as well as gloves and hard shoes.
Ha Giang Loop Itinerary
It seems that every day of the Loop is a journey in itself. Each day brings new landscapes, cultures, and experiences. Oh and if you are planning rest of Vietnam tour yourself in 2025, then we have a perfect 2 weeks Vietnam Itinerary which is super flexible as per your travel taste!
This is one of the most popular treks on a travel circuit - four days itinerary that take in most of the loop.
But again, it is just a guideline; feel free to adjust for your own pace and interest.
Here is the link for Ha Giang Loop Map plotted on google maps covering the complete loop : Ha Giang Map
Day 1: Ha Giang – Quan Ba
The Ha Giang adventure started: got a motorbike and a permit, then just hit the road and rode towards Quan Ba.
It's super pretty and pretty easy on the road to Quan Ba. Along the way, you pass through some green valleys and old-school villages.
In Quan Ba, one should not miss the famous Twin Mountains - would have loved a fantastic view of the landscape that one will be in.
Day 2: Quan Ba – Yen Minh
Day 2: From Quan Ba to Yen Minh. This part of the loop is famous for its stunning mountain scenery.
You should not miss the Lung Tam Linen Cooperative: an interesting place, where you can learn about local customs of weaving and get some unusual souvenirs.
The first thing to do is visit the market of Yen Minh. It's a good place for some local dishes and talking with people.
Day 3: Yen Minh to Dong Van
The third day takes you from Yen Minh to Dong Van. No lie, this is seriously some of the prettiest rides with amazing views around Geopark Karst Plateau of Dong Van.
The Family Vuong Mansion is located in the precinct of Sa Phin, a relic house showing many things in the past.
We later drive to Dong Van Old Quarter for sightseeing and have lunch in one of the local restaurants.
Day 4: Dong Van to Ha Giang
You drive back to Ha Giang from Dong Van on the last day. Hands-down, the coolest part of the day would be Ma Pi Leng Pass, one of the most beautiful spots along the loop.
Take your time driving and enjoy the pass - the views are magnificent.
Upon returning to Ha Giang, our trip has come full circle. Complete the most gorgeous and most challenging journey in Northern Vietnam!
Hidden Gems Along the Route
- Sung La Valley: Bypass Chin Khoanh Pass to see “Flower of the Plateau” during bloom
- Lung Khuy Cave: Detour 8 km north of Quan Ba; entrance fee 50,000 VND
- Yen Minh Pine Forest: Take the longer route into the pine woods for a shaded picnic
- Minh Tan Stream: Swim spot 50 km from Ha Giang City on Highway 4C
Where to stay
Ha Giang Loop is well developed in terms of the infrastructure for hospitality. It offers all kinds of accommodation to suit any taste and budget.
Homestays are most among travelers in Vietnam and Ha giang is no exception. This allows them additional possibilities for experiencing local lives and culture. Besides, they are usually situated in the most picturesque place and provide panoramic scenery right from the window.
You will also find hotels and guesthouses; big cities like Ha Giang and Dong Van have these in abundance. These normally come with a private bathroom and air-conditioning, plus extra amenities.
Local tastes to enjoy on the loop include food and drinks
One of the best things about traveling is to look around for new foods and drinks. The Ha Giang Loop belongs totally to it, with this city being famous for its cool and tasty food.
You will pass a load of roadside spots dishing out local food. Pho, this great Vietnamese noodle soup, is definitely a must. Great for quick, filling meals. And you gotta try "Thang Co," traditional soup made by the H'Mong folks.
And, of course, do taste the local rice wine - it's very famous around here, and a note of warning: it is quite strong. Be sure to drink responsibly because many of you may have plans to ride the next day.
You know, eating the local food isn't just about filling one's tummy. It's one cool way to get into the very feeling of the culture and the vibe of the people. Try great flavors here and there in Ha Giang!
Meeting the Local Ethnic Groups
You know, it's not only the crazy views of the Ha Giang Loop but also these amazing people who live in this region. Many different ethnic groups just hang out right here in this area, so cultural diversity is high.
It's one of the big groups, the H'Mong people. That's just one of the groups adorned in bright clothes and fancy silver jewelry. Usually, you catch them in the local markets while selling their handmade stuff.
There is then another tribe you get to bump into, the Tay. They live in these amazing stilt houses and are quite famous for their outstanding weaving skills. Paying a Tay village a visit would be a cute way to explore how they live.
The main highlights of the Ha Giang Loop involve the meeting of these local ethnic tribes and learning about their traditions and customs. Always remember not to disrespect the people or their way of living - asking for a photo is always good mannerism.
How to be considerate of the environment and the locals
Traveling the whole loop is an adventure in itself. Let's always bear in mind that this beautiful place shelters so many individuals and animals. As tourists, we should take it easy and not be heavy while traveling; we do this in a manner which does respect the environmental and social local life.
One way to do so is to follow the guidelines of "Leave No Trace." That is to say, take all your litter with you and never disturb the environment. It is also highly crucial to maintain the trails wherever marked to avoid any damage to sensitive areas.
Respect the customs and traditions of local communities. Please ask permission to take any photographs, and under no condition give children money or presents; it only encourages a begging culture.
Finally, try to think how you might contribute to local products or support services from locals. That way, tourism will have an impression in the communities that you will go to. Remember, to travel responsibly is to make a positive contribution to the places you go.
Packing List for the Ha Giang Loop
Pack a bit of a headache when going on this trip: be prepared for all types of weather and just right for your motorbike trip. But don't worry; this list will cover what you need:
Safety equipment, including headgear, gloves, and a leather jacket, will be provided. This gear will help you survive if things go wrong but will also keep you warm on the trip in case it's colder than anticipated.
Second, pay attention to the clothes you will wear: light, breathable in the daytime, and warmer layers can be great for evening. It is also worth bringing some rainproof kit with you because rain may pop out suddenly.
Here's a quick checklist to help you pack:
- Motorcycle license and international driving permit
- Full‑face helmet (DOT‑ approved) and riding gloves
- Waterproof riding jacket and pants
- eSIM or local SIM with data (for offline maps)
- Offline Google Translate app and key Vietnamese phrases list
- Thermal layers and down jacket (winter)
- Quick‑dry clothing and swimwear (waterfall stops)
- Portable phone charger and power bank
- First‑aid kit with blister plasters and painkillers
- Copy of Ha Giang travel permit (230,000 VND)
In any case, always remember to pack light; you will have it all on your motorbike. Only bring what you need. Happy Packing!
FAQ
We do realize that planning a Ha Giang Loop Trip may bring up many questions in your mind. Just to make things a little easier for you, here we tried to tackle some normal questions we hear from travelers.
Can foreigners legally ride motorbikes on the Ha Giang Loop?
Yes but you need a valid driving license. They allow International Driving Permits but further require that one must have their driving license from back home.How long is the Ha Giang Loop?
About 350 km (217 miles) for the classic loop.Is the Ha Giang Loop safe for first‑time riders?
No, It is not safe for beginners.
The loop has sharp bends and steep climbs. Beginners should hire an experienced easy‑rider guide or take a basic motorcycle safety course before departure if you are confident enough in your skills.
There has been accidents in past with motorbikes so do not take this circuit lightly please!Can I do the loop if I've never ridden a motorbike before?
Honestly, we wouldn't recommend it. The Ha Giang Loop is pretty tough - even for people who really know their stuff on a bike. If you're not super comfy on a motorbike, maybe think about hiring a driver or hopping on a guided tour.- Can I do the loop by car or jeep?
Yes. Car tours offer comfort in poor weather but limit flexibility. Riding lets you stop at hidden viewpoints.
The loop is famous among motorcycle riders from across the world especially Australia/ New Zealand/UK. And there is a very good reason for that - its insanely adventurous!
I highly recommend to opt for motorbike if you can ride them and only go with car tour if you travelling with family. - How many days do I need for the Ha Giang Loop?
4 to 5 days is ideal to cover 30+ highlights without rushing; 3 days is possible but tight. - What permits do I need?
Foreigners must purchase a Ha Giang travel permit at the local immigration office in Ha Giang City (≈230,000 VND). - When do buckwheat flowers bloom?
Typically from late October to mid‑November in Dong Van Plateau. - What is the Ha Giang Loop?
A multi-day motorbike route in Vietnam’s far north that loops Ha Giang province through karst peaks, ethnic villages and dramatic passes. - What is the best time of year to do the Ha Giang Loop?
Late January-May (post-Tet spring and dry season) and September-November for clearer roads and good views; avoid peak rains. - How do I get to Ha Giang from Hanoi?
You can take overnight sleeper bus (approx 6 to 7 hours), private transfer, or self-drive. Book buses in advance in high season. - How much does motorbike rental cost in Ha Giang?
Typical ranges: roughly 150,000–500,000 VND/day depending on bike type and season; off-road bikes cost more. - What should I pack for the Ha Giang Loop?
Light layers, rain gear, gloves, sturdy shoes, spare phone battery, basic first-aid, sunscreen and a good helmet. Short, local repairs kits and cash for small repairs are useful. - Are there petrol stations and mobile signal on the route?
Fuel is available in main towns but can be sparse between villages so we would recommend you to top up when you can. Mobile signal exists in many areas but is unreliable in remote stretches. Carry offline maps. - Which stops are must-see on the Ha Giang Loop?
Quan Ba (Heaven Gate), Ma Pi Leng Pass, Dong Van, Meo Vac, Lung Cu Flag Tower and the Nho Que River viewpoints are the top things to do in Ha Giang. Can I take a boat on the Nho Que River?
Yes. Short boat/kayak trips on the Nho Que are offered and give a dramatic view under Ma Pi Leng. You can book locally at homestays or with a guide.- Do I need travel insurance for the Ha Giang Loop?
Strongly recommended but not mandatory. Choose a policy that covers motorbike accidents, emergency evacuation and medical costs. - Should I hire an Easy Rider (guide) or self-ride?
If you’re inexperienced or want to avoid road stress, hire an Easy Rider or guided tour; self-ride if confident, experienced, and fully prepared. - How much does the Ha Giang Loop cost?
A typical independent trip costs about US$50-$70 per day (bike, food, budget homestays). Guided tours or Easy Rider packages usually run US$130-$330 total depending on duration and inclusions. - Can I do the Loop in one day?
You can do a condensed 1-day loop that hits key viewpoints (Quan Ba, Heaven Gate, Ma Pi Leng), but it’s a quick taste so expect a long, tiring day. - Should I book homestays in advance?
Yes. book ahead in high season and during Tet. There are many homestays, but popular spots fill fast so you gotta use Booking/hostels or confirm with your tour operator for guaranteed beds. - What are the best hostels on the Ha Giang Loop?
NoMadders Hostel, Ha Giang Loop Hostel and Top of the Loop Hostel are among the top-rated budget stays. - What is the most popular Ha Giang Loop route?
The classic circuit follows Highway 4C: Ha Giang City → Quan Ba (Heaven Gate) → Yen Minh → Dong Van → Meo Vac → Ma Pi Leng / Lung Cu and back, usually covered in 3–5 days with shorter or longer options available. - Is Mama’s Homestay reliable for the Ha Giang Loop tour?
Mama’s Homestay runs popular 3 to 4 day packages and gets consistently good guest reviews. It’s a common choice for homestay-based loop tours with over 1300 google reviews and average rating of 4.7 stars as of September 2025. - What is an Easy Rider in Vietnam?
An Easy Rider is a local rider/guide who drives you as the pillion passenger, handles the bike and route decisions, and is the safest choice for travellers who don’t want to ride themselves. - Is the Ha Giang Loop dangerous?
Yes. Some sections are steep, narrow and rough with sheer drops and poor weather makes conditions worse. So, pick an Easy Rider or guided tour if you lack mountain-riding experience.
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