Ninh Binh to Ha Giang - Travel Guide & Route Tips

Leaving the flat rice paddies of Ninh Binh behind, I set off north toward Ha Giang’s towering mountains. Traveling this route truly transitions you from the scenic rice fields to the breathtaking mountainous landscapes.

Below is a travel guide on how to make the journey, with practical tips to help you enjoy every twist of the road.

Transport Options: Bus, Motorbike or Private Car

• Bus: This is the most common choice. Comfortable sleeper buses run nightly from Ninh Binh to Ha Giang, covering roughly 370-440 km in about 7-10 hours. Standard ticket prices are around 250,000-300,000 VND, while VIP or “limousine” sleepers with extra space run closer to 450,000 VND.
  For example, Bằng Phấn bus company specializes in this route with modern sleeper cabins.
  
  Buses usually depart from Ninh Binh Bus Station (or Tam Coc area) in the evening, so you arrive in Ha Giang early next morning. Book ahead via sites like 12Go or Baolau, especially in peak season. The ride is long but you’ll sleep right through most of it.

• Motorbike: Riding up yourself is spectacular but very challenging. The road is about 400 km (8-10 hours) of highway and mountain passes. Rental scooters (125-150cc) cost roughly 120,000-200,000 VND/day, plus gasoline (~60,000 VND per tank). You’ll see incredible scenery, but remember that the highway out of Ninh Binh is busy.
  
  Many locals actually advise against riding the entire stretch on your own - it’s long and can be dangerous. If you’re an experienced rider and well-prepared (good brakes, insurance, helmet), it can be done. Otherwise consider splitting the trip (e.g. bus to Hanoi, then ride from Hanoi) or hiring a motorbike with an “Easy Rider” guide.

• Private Car/Taxi: Hiring a private car (with driver) is the most comfortable but costly option. It’s roughly 4.5-6.5 million VND for a one-way sedan/SUV, with a travel time of about 8-9 hours including short breaks.
  
  A driver will pick you up door-to-door and can stop on request (for lunch, photos, etc.). This lets you savor the scenery and skip long nights on a bus, but it’s a premium service. (Pro tip: if you rent a car, start very early to avoid nighttime driving in the mountains.)
  
  Note there are no flights or direct trains on this route, so road travel is your only option.
  
  

Beautiful Ninh Binh Landscape

Scenic Route & Stops Along the Way

This drive is stunning. Even on a bus or car, you’ll wind past emerald rice terraces and karst peaks. As one guide puts it, the countryside is “picturesque… with lush green rice fields, karst mountains, and winding roads”. Plan a slow trip so you can enjoy side visits. Highlights include:

• Hanoi (en route): Most travelers break here. It’s only ~2.5 hours from Ninh Binh (100 km). Spend a night in the Old Quarter, sip egg coffee by Hoàn Kiếm Lake, or stock up on supplies before heading north.
  From Hanoi there are frequent buses (sleeper or limo) to Ha Giang.
  
  

Thac Ba Lake in Yen Bai Province of Vietnam

• Thac Ba Lake (Yên Bái Province): If you want a detour, consider Thác Bà Lake. It’s a large reservoir with dozens of green islets and quiet fishing villages. Locals note it’s “picturesque” and still off the typical tourist trail.
  A short stop for tea by the lake can be a refreshing break.|
  
  

Ba Be Lake

• Ba Be Lake (Bắc Kạn Province): Another rewarding side-trip is Ba Bể National Park. It’s Vietnam’s largest natural lake, set 150m above sea level among jungle-clad karsts.
  You can kayak or take a boat on the lake, explore caves, and stay in Tay ethnic homestays. (Getting here adds a few hours north of the main highway, so best if you have 2-3 extra days.)
  
  

Quan Ba Twin Mountains

• Quan Ba - Twin Mountains and Heaven’s Gate: Just north of Ha Giang city (about 20 km), you’ll find the famous Tam Son Twin Mountains and the Heaven’s Gate pass. Stop at a viewpoint to see the two conical green hills (“fairy bosoms”) and the Qi Lin gate arch. It’s a great sunrise spot and entirely free, and gives you a taste of what’s to come on the loop.

Where to Stay: Ha Giang & Along the Way

Here are some suggestions for lodging in Ha Giang and nearby districts:

• Ha Giang City: The town has dozens of places to stay. You can find lively backpacker hostels (with motorbike rental) or simple hotels.
  For example, Hong Hào Hostel and Ha Giang Hostel are popular budget choices with friendly service. For more comfort, mid-range hotels like Yên Biên or Viettrekking offer private rooms.
  If you prefer a quieter vibe, consider a short trip to Thôn Tha village just outside town - it’s a cluster of traditional stilt houses with great views.
  
  

Quan Ba (nam Dam Village)

• Quan Ba (Nam Dam village): About 1½ hours from Ha Giang town, the village of Nam Dam is a peaceful spot to break the loop. Local homestays here give you a taste of H’Mông/Tày village life.
  
  We loved staying at Nam Đầm 2 Homestay; you’ll sleep in a wooden longhouse above fields. It’s especially restful for families or anyone wanting a break from riding.

• Yên Minh (Du Gia village): Near the halfway point of the loop, Du Gia valley is full of rice terraces and forest. Small guesthouses (typically $10-$15 double) are tucked behind the village.
  One popular stop is Du Gia Homestay, known for its waterfall hike and serene atmosphere. Even if you’re not staying, it’s worth a meal or swimming in the stream.

• (Optional) Hanoi or Ninh Binh: If you’re taking the trip over multiple days, you’ll likely stay in Hanoi en route - try Old Quarter guest houses or lakeside boutique hotels.
  And if you’re starting out, don’t miss nice Ninh Binh homestays around Tam Coc (e.g. Chez Loan or Tam Coc Garden), so you begin rested.
  
  

Famous Mua Cave of Ninh Binh

Things to Do Around Ha Giang

Once in Ha Giang Province, the Ha Giang Loop is the crown jewel - a multi-day motorbike or car circuit through the best scenery. Highlights (all low-cost) include:

• Ha Giang Loop Circuit: A typical loop is 3-4 days (2-3 nights), roughly 350 km. Start from Ha Giang city, climb to Quản Bạ Heaven’s Gate, ride past Đồn Đạc Peak and down to Yên Minh, then continue to Đồng Văn and up through Mèo Vạc back toward town.
  You’ll pass deep valleys, twisting passes, and rural villages. This itinerary requires lots of riding time, so give at least 3 days (4-5 is even better).

• Heaven’s Gate (Don Dac): Near Quan Ba, this viewing platform looks back toward Tam Sơn’s Twin Mountains. It’s a shortstop and completely free, perfect for photos with dramatic cliffs and green fields below.

• H’Mông King’s Palace (Hoàng Su Phì area): Also called the “Opium King’s Palace,” this 1920s mansion near Yên Minh has strange, ornate architecture.
  Entry is only 10,000 VND. It’s a peek into local history and sits in lovely farmland.
  
  

Dong Van Landscape on Ha Giang Loop

• Dong Van Old Quarter: The historic town center of Đồng Văn feels frozen in time with its red-tiled roofs and market. A bit of the old wall still stands. Entry is 50,000 VND (if open), otherwise you can wander around and enjoy many cafés built from the old fortress bricks.
  
  On Sunday mornings (around 5-10AM), the Đồng Văn Sunday Market fills the main square with H’Mông, Dao and other hill tribes selling textiles, corn whiskey, livestock and woven hats. It’s a must-see for color and culture if your schedule permits.
  
  

Ma Pi Leng Pass

• Ma Pi Leng Pass: This is the signature viewpoint of the loop. From Mèo Vạc town, ascend the famous switchbacks up to the 2,000m pass overlooking the deep Nho Que River canyon.
  There is no official fee, but you might be asked for a small donation (~10k VND) to park. The panorama is jaw-dropping - on a clear day you can see the green river far below.

• Lung Cu Flag Tower: If you can add another night, ride up to Lũng Cú village on the China border. The climb to the flag tower costs 25,000 VND and offers the “top of Vietnam” view in all directions.
  You’ll feel you are at the edge of the world - and see how far you’ve come from Ninh Binh!
  
  

Lung Cu Flag Tower

• Other Gems: On slower days, look for the hidden waterfalls (like in Du Gia) or stretch your legs on a short trek through a H’Mông village.
  The spirit forest at Khâu Vai (legendary Valentine market site, entry ~15k) and the cactus garden viewpoint at Lũng Táo are fun add-ons if time allows.

Travel Tips and Warnings

• Road Safety: Ha Giang’s mountain roads are narrow, steep and winding. Many stretches have no guardrails, so ride very carefully - especially around blind curves. If you’re nervous, avoid driving these roads at night.
  
  Always wear your helmet, and ideally a rain jacket/coat in case of sudden weather changes. If you don’t feel confident (or don’t have an international license), seriously consider an Easy Rider tour or a private driver instead.

• Weather & Seasons: The best travel windows are spring (Feb-Mar) and autumn (Oct-Nov), when days are clear and cool. In these months you might even catch blooming buckwheat or comfortable temperatures.
  
  The rainy season (June-Sep) brings fog and slippery roads; landslides occasionally happen. Always check the local forecast before you go. Note: nights in the mountains can be chilly year-round (10°C or lower in winter), so pack layers and a warm jacket.

• Planning & Gear: Fuel stations are common in towns (fill up whenever you can - a 110cc bike holds about 60k VND of petrol). Food options are basic outside town: carry snacks, water and a power bank.
  ATMs are scarce beyond Hà Giang City, so bring enough cash for the whole trip. Also bring a basic first-aid kit. Finally, travel insurance that covers motorcycle riding is highly recommended.

• Health & Altitude: You won’t need any special permits or medications, but do drink bottled water and eat cooked food. The altitudes here (max ~2,000m) rarely cause altitude sickness in Vietnam, but take it easy until you’re rested.
  
  

Ha Giang Loop Can Be a Bit Dangerous if You Are Not an Experience Bike Rider

FAQs

• Q: Is it safe to ride from Ninh Binh to Ha Giang by motorbike?
  A: It’s technically doable, but very demanding. The highways out of Ninh Binh are busy and the journey is long. Most guides actually advise not riding straight from Ninh Binh to Ha Giang on your own. If you really want to try, go only in good weather, take breaks (for example overnight in Hanoi), and don’t rush. Otherwise, the recommended safer approach is to take the bus to Hanoi and then rent a bike there, or hire a car/driver.

• Q: How many days do I need for the Ha Giang Loop?
  A: Plan for at least 3 days (2 nights) to see the main highlights. A 3-day loop covers Quan Ba, Đồng Văn and back via Mèo Vạc at a brisk pace. If you have extra time, stretch it to 4-5 days to go slower, enjoy detours (Du Gia, Lung Cú, local markets) and avoid long daily rides. In short, minimum 3 days for the full experience.

• Q: When should I visit Ha Giang?
  A: The consensus is late autumn to early spring is best - around October-December or January-March. Summers are hot and wet, which can make riding tricky. (One travel blog notes January-March as “pleasant and cool” for Ha Giang travel.) Also avoid the Vietnamese New Year holiday (Tet) if you can, as services may be crowded.

• Q: Can I do the loop with a guide or Easy Rider?
  A: Yes! Hiring an Easy Rider (a local driver on a passenger bike) is very common. It adds cost (around $20-$40 per day for a guide/driver with bike) but eliminates worry about roads or navigation. Many solo travelers in Ha Giang opt for this, especially if safety is a concern.

I hope these tips help you plan an epic journey from Ninh Binh to Ha Giang. The drive (and ride) is challenging, but the views and cultural experiences - from Tam Coc’s boats to mountain villages - are unforgettable. Safe travels!