Ha Giang: A land of untamed beauty and cultural richness
Ha Giang province is one of Vietnam’s most rugged and untouched regions, offering an adventure like no other. This far-northern province is home to the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, towering limestone mountains, dramatic mountain passes, and peaceful valleys dotted with ethnic minority villages. The Ha Giang Loop is the province’s most famous attraction, a multi-day journey through breathtaking scenery, but there is so much more to explore beyond the main route.
What makes Ha Giang truly special is its cultural diversity. The province is home to various ethnic minorities, including the Hmong, Tay, Dao, and Lo Lo, who have preserved their traditional way of life, colorful clothing, and unique customs. Visiting their villages, exploring local markets, and even staying in a homestay offers a rare glimpse into authentic rural life in Vietnam.
Ha Giang Loop – The ultimate way to explore Ha Giang
The Ha Giang Loop is the best way to experience the breathtaking landscapes, ethnic villages, and winding mountain roads of Ha Giang. This multi-day journey takes you through steep mountain passes, deep valleys, and traditional villages, offering an unforgettable adventure. Along the way, you’ll pass through Dong Van, Meo Vac, Du Gia, and many other scenic locations, stopping at local markets, homestays, and viewpoints that showcase the raw beauty of this remote region.
How long does the Ha Giang Loop take?
The loop can be completed in 3, 4, or 5 days, depending on how much time you want to explore. A 3-day itinerary is more fast-paced, covering the highlights, while a 4- or 5-day loop allows for more stops, trekking, and cultural experiences.
How to do the Ha Giang Loop?
- Motorbike – The most adventurous way to do the loop. If you’re experienced, you can rent a motorbike and ride yourself. Otherwise, opt for an Easy Rider tour, where you sit on the back of a motorbike with an experienced local driver.
- Easy Rider – A great option for those who want the full motorbike experience but prefer not to drive themselves.
- Car or Jeep – The most comfortable option, with a private driver. A jeep tour allows for open-roof views, perfect for photography, though it’s pricier and less adventurous than motorbiking.
Read the full guide here: Ha Giang Loop (including all the stops, recommended accommodations and travel tips).
Best things to do in Ha Giang
Ha Giang is full of incredible landscapes, rich ethnic culture, and unique experiences. Most of the best things to do in Ha Giang can be done while completing the Ha Giang Loop, but some require extra time or separate trips. Whether you’re exploring breathtaking mountain passes, trekking through rice terraces, or visiting colorful ethnic markets, this guide will help you make the most of your time in this region.
1. Explore Ha Giang’s scenic roads and mountain passes
Ha Giang’s rugged terrain is home to some of Vietnam’s most spectacular mountain roads and passes. The province is part of the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, a UNESCO-recognized area filled with limestone formations, deep valleys, and stunning rock landscapes. While driving, you’ll pass through countless unnamed viewpoints just as beautiful as the well-known spots, but here are some of the most famous highlights:
Quan Ba Heaven Gate
Quan Ba Heaven Gate is the first major viewpoint along the Ha Giang Loop, offering stunning views over the Twin Mountains and the surrounding valleys. It marks the entrance to the Dong Van Karst Plateau, where the landscapes become even more dramatic.
Tham Ma Pass
One of the most photographed mountain passes in Ha Giang, Tham Ma Pass is known for its perfect S-shaped curves. This scenic stretch of road is a popular stop for travelers, with viewpoints overlooking the winding route below.
Ma Pi Leng Pass
The Ma Pi Leng Pass is the most famous and breathtaking pass in Vietnam. The road between Dong Van and Meo Vac runs along sheer cliffs, offering jaw-dropping views of the Nho Que River snaking through the deep canyon below.
Sung La Valley
Sung La Valley is a peaceful area known for its flower fields, ethnic villages, and historic houses. The valley is especially popular during the buckwheat flower season, when fields turn shades of pink and purple.
2. Trekking in Hoang Su Phi
For those looking for an adventure beyond the Ha Giang Loop, Hoang Su Phi is a must-visit destination. This remote district is not part of the loop and requires a separate journey. If you want to combine it with the loop, plan for at least three extra days—two for trekking and two half-days for travel.
Hoang Su Phi is famous for its massive terraced rice fields, some of the most spectacular in Vietnam, especially during harvest season (September–October). The area is home to several ethnic minority groups, including the Tay, Dao, and Nung, who have cultivated the land for generations.
Trekking here takes you through remote villages, offering a more off-the-beaten-path experience compared to the more visited areas of Ha Giang. If you love nature and cultural immersion, this is one of the best trekking experiences in Vietnam.
3. Stop at local minority villages
As stunning as Ha Giang’s landscapes are, its people and culture are just as much a highlight of the region. The province is home to many ethnic minorities, including the Hmong, Tay, Dao, Lo Lo, and Giay, each with their own traditions, language, and way of life. Most of them rely on farming, weaving, and handicrafts, living in villages that have changed little over time.
You can visit many villages along the Ha Giang Loop, but here are some of the most interesting:
- Thon Tha Village (Tay) – Traditional wooden stilt houses and lush rice fields.
- Nam Dam Village (Dao) – A peaceful village known for its clay houses and cultural homestays.
- Ma Le Village (Giay) – A small village with traditional homes and local crafts.
- Lung Tam Village (Hmong) – Famous for Hmong linen weaving and natural dyeing techniques.
- Lo Lo Chai Village (Lo Lo) – A historic village near Lung Cu Flag Tower, home to the Lo Lo people.
- Lung Cam Village (Hmong) – Known for its ancient Hmong houses and scenic surroundings.
- Pho Bang Village (Hmong) – An old Chinese-style village with unique mud-brick houses.
However, you don’t need to visit a specific village to experience local life. Simply stopping at any small village along the road, stretching your legs, and walking around can be just as rewarding. These are not tourist attractions but real communities, so be mindful and respectful during your visit.
4. Plan a visit to ethnic markets in Ha Giang
One of the best things to do in Ha Giang is visiting an ethnic market to experience the unique cultures of the region. Unlike the markets in big cities, these are not tourist markets—they are places where local hill tribes gather to trade, buy supplies, and socialize.
At these markets, you’ll see ethnic people dressed in their colorful traditional outfits, selling everything from vegetables and livestock to handmade textiles and jewelry. Some markets even have food stalls where people drink corn wine and eat bowls of steaming soup before 8 AM!
Since most of these markets are only held once a week, you need to plan your visit accordingly. Here are two of the most famous:
Meo Vac Market
Held every Sunday, Meo Vac Market is the largest and most vibrant market in Ha Giang. People from villages all over the region walk long distances to trade goods, buy livestock, and catch up with friends. The cattle market is one of the highlights, where buffaloes, pigs, and chickens are bought and sold.
Dong Van Market
Also taking place on Sundays, Dong Van Market is smaller than Meo Vac but just as authentic. It’s located near the Dong Van Old Quarter, making it a great stop if you’re in the area. Here, you can find textiles, food, and daily necessities, as well as a lively atmosphere with locals chatting, laughing, and bargaining.
For a full list of ethnic markets in Ha Giang, check our guide: Markets in Ha Giang
5. Go hiking in Ha Giang
While Ha Giang is best known for its motorbike loop, hiking in Ha Giang is one of the best ways to explore the region at a slower pace and get closer to its people and landscapes. Unlike Sapa, which is a well-established trekking destination, Ha Giang’s hiking trails are far less developed, making it a true adventure.
Most travelers stick to the Ha Giang Loop and visit the same well-known stops, which are still authentic but becoming more popular. Venturing off the main route allows you to experience untouched landscapes and less-visited ethnic villages. Hiking offers the opportunity to connect more deeply with nature and local cultures.
Hoang Su Phi is the best area for trekking in Ha Giang, but it is not along the loop, requiring at least three extra days to visit. However, there are also trekking opportunities along the Ha Giang Loop.
Hiking independently can be difficult, as many trails are unmarked, and transportation to trailheads can be challenging. The best way is to hire a local guide who can lead you to the best trails, arrange food and transportation, and provide insights into ethnic communities. You can opt for a half-day, full-day, or even multi-day trek with overnight homestays.
For more information on routes and preparation, check our full guide on trekking in Ha Giang.
6. Visit historical buildings
Ha Giang is primarily known for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse ethnic cultures, not for its history. Unlike Hanoi, Hue, or Hoi An, where you can explore ancient temples and colonial streets, Ha Giang’s historical sites are fewer and more remote. However, there are a few noteworthy places that provide insight into the region’s past.
Hmong King’s Palace
The Hmong King’s Palace in Sa Phin was built in the early 20th century as the home of Vuong Chinh Duc, the king of the Hmong people. The palace is a fascinating mix of Chinese, French, and Hmong architecture, reflecting the unique influences in the region.
Dong Van Old Quarter
Dong Van’s Old Quarter is one of the few places in Ha Giang where you can still see French colonial architecture. The old houses around the town square have a unique mix of Vietnamese, Chinese, and French influences. The area is especially lively in the evenings, with small cafés and restaurants creating a cozy atmosphere.
Old ethnic houses
Although Ha Giang does not have ancient cities, you can still find well-preserved ethnic houses that are over 100 years old. One of the best places to visit is Lung Cam Village, home to the House of Pao, which was featured in a famous Vietnamese movie.
Ruins of French forts and watchposts
Ha Giang was once a strategic location for the French colonial army, and you can still find remnants of their presence. Behind Dong Van Old Quarter, you can hike up to an old French fort with fantastic views of the town. Another ruin can be found between Meo Vac and Mau Due, where a former French watchpost offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.
7. Climb to the Lung Cu Flag Tower
Lung Cu is the northernmost point of Vietnam, located near the Chinese border. The Lung Cu Flag Tower stands on top of a hill at 1,470 meters above sea level, symbolizing Vietnam’s sovereignty. You can climb the steps to the top of the tower for panoramic views over the mountains and villages on both the Vietnamese and Chinese sides.
However, even if you’re not particularly interested in the flag tower itself, the drive to Lung Cu is one of the most scenic in Ha Giang. The road winds through rugged limestone peaks, remote ethnic villages, and terraced fields, making the journey just as rewarding as the destination.
Lung Cu commune is home to several ethnic groups, including the Lo Lo and Hmong, who live in traditional houses made of clay and wood. If you want to experience authentic local life, consider stopping at Lo Lo Chai Village, a peaceful settlement near the flag tower.
8. Stay overnight in an ethnic homestay
A homestay in Ha Giang offers one of the most authentic travel experiences in Vietnam. These stays are run by ethnic minority families, giving you a unique opportunity to witness traditional lifestyles, eat local food, and engage with your hosts.
However, staying in an ethnic homestay is not about luxury. The experience is often very basic, with hard mattresses, open-fire cooking, and no heating in winter. But this simplicity is what makes it so special—a true cultural immersion. The local families are known for their warm hospitality, and in many homestays, you’ll be invited to join a family dinner and drink corn wine, a traditional homemade liquor.
If you’re open to stepping out of your comfort zone, spending at least one night in a traditional homestay is one of the best things to do in Ha Giang.
Note on homestays
Due to the increasing popularity of the Ha Giang Loop, many homestays are now owned by business investors from Hanoi, rather than local ethnic families. While these places often offer better comfort and amenities, they lack the authenticity of a true ethnic homestay. Both options can be enjoyable, depending on what you’re looking for.
9. Relax in Ha Giang’s countryside
While much of Ha Giang, especially along the loop, is dominated by rugged limestone mountains and dramatic rocky landscapes, there are also peaceful valleys with vast rice fields and traditional farming villages. These areas offer a different side of Ha Giang, where you can experience the slower pace of rural life, surrounded by green fields, water buffalo, and ethnic stilt houses. If you’re looking for a place to unwind after days of adventurous riding, spending time in Ha Giang’s countryside is one of the best things to do in Ha Giang.
Du Gia
Du Gia is a small ethnic commune nestled in a valley surrounded by rolling hills and rice fields. Unlike many other areas in Ha Giang, the rice fields here are not terraced but stretch across the valley floor, creating a picturesque rural landscape. The village is home to ethnic Tay and Dao communities, who live in traditional wooden stilt houses and maintain a peaceful way of life.
One of the main attractions in Du Gia is the Du Gia Waterfall, a great place to relax and take a dip in the natural pool. However, if you visit in the late afternoon, expect it to be busy with motorbike tour groups stopping for a break. To enjoy a quieter experience, consider visiting earlier in the day.
Thon Tha
If you are planning to stay in Ha Giang City before or after your trip, Thon Tha is a far better alternative to staying in the city itself. Located just a short drive from Ha Giang, Thon Tha is a traditional Tay ethnic village with wooden stilt houses, peaceful rice fields, and water buffalo grazing in the fields.
Unlike some of the more remote villages, Thon Tha is easily accessible and offers a relaxing atmosphere where you can take walks through the surrounding countryside, interact with local families, and experience the slow rhythm of rural life. Whether you explore on your own or go on a guided walk with your host, it’s a wonderful place to unwind and soak in Ha Giang’s authentic countryside charm.
10. Explore Ha Giang beyond the usual route
Most travelers follow the Ha Giang Loop, stopping at the well-known mountain passes, villages, and markets. However, Ha Giang has so much more to offer beyond the loop. Some experiences require extra effort to reach but reward you with truly untouched landscapes and cultural encounters. If you have extra time, these experiences offer a deeper look into Ha Giang’s traditions and remote regions.
Experience Ha Giang’s festivals and traditions
Ha Giang’s ethnic groups celebrate unique festivals throughout the year, offering an incredible glimpse into their customs. The Khau Vai Love Market is one of the most famous, where former lovers reunite in a once-a-year gathering. Other festivals, such as the Gau Tao Festival of the Hmong or the Fire Dancing Festival of the Dao, showcase traditional music, dance, and rituals that have been passed down for generations. Timing your visit to coincide with one of these events will provide a truly unique cultural experience.
Explore Ha Giang’s remote regions
For those willing to venture even further, Ha Giang has hidden gems that remain off the tourist radar. The Xin Man region, near the border with Lao Cai, is home to untouched valleys, vibrant local markets, and breathtaking terraced rice fields. Meanwhile, Tay Con Linh Mountain, the highest peak in northeast Vietnam, offers incredible trekking routes through dense forests and isolated ethnic villages. These places require additional planning and time, but they provide some of the most rewarding experiences for those who seek adventure beyond the standard Ha Giang itinerary.
Best hotels & hostels in Ha Giang
Hotels in Ha Giang CIty
- QT Guest House
- Kiki’s house
- Ha Giang Amazing hostel
Hotels in Dong Van
- Green Karst Hostel & Bar
- Binh Minh Hostel
- Lam Tung Hotel
Hotels in Meo Vac
- Ong Vang Meo Vac Hotel
- Little Yen’s Homestay
- Lam Tung Hotel
Hotels in Yen Minh
- Homestay bongbang
Although Ha Giang is slowly becoming more developed, the available accommodation is generally fairly simple. Larger cities such as Dong Van and Ha Giang do have hotels, but guesthouses and homestays are more common. They may offer fewer basic services, but they give you the opportunity to communicate with your local hosts and give them a glimpse into their daily lives.
Food & drinking
The far north of Vietnam is a surprisingly tasty place to find good Vietnamese food. The restaurant scene consists of small “quan” restaurants where you have to sit on a small stool while the food is being cooked before your eyes. The locals will probably beg you to taste some rice wine, something you should be careful with.
Breakfast and dinner you will often eat at your homestay. It is recommened to book a family dinner and eat with the family of the host and other guest.
How to get there
The gateway to Ha Giang province is Ha Giang City, the capital and starting point for most travelers. This is where the Ha Giang Loop begins and ends, making it the most common entry point. Some areas, such as Hoang Su Phi, require a different approach, but for most, Ha Giang City is the place to reach first.
Ha Giang does not have an airport or train station, so the only way to get there is by road. Below are your options:
By Bus or Limousine Van
The most common way to travel to Ha Giang is by bus or limousine van from Hanoi. There are both night buses and daytime limousine vans:
- Night buses: Various levels of comfort, with VIP sleeper buses offering the best experience.
- Daytime limousine vans: A more comfortable option for those who prefer to travel by day.
- The journey takes about 6 hours from Hanoi.
There is also a direct bus from Sapa to Ha Giang, making it possible to visit Ha Giang after exploring northern Vietnam’s other famous mountain region. For other destinations, you will first need to travel to Hanoi and transfer from there.
Private cars to Hanoi
For more comfort and convenience, you can book a private car from Hanoi to Ha Giang. Some travelers extend their Ha Giang Loop by starting the journey from Hanoi, making stops along the way.
How to arrange your transport
If you are booking a guided Ha Giang Loop tour, your transportation to Ha Giang can be arranged as part of the package. This can include options for VIP bus, private car, or standard sleeper bus.
If you plan to arrange transport independently, check out this guide on how to book bus tickets in Vietnam for tips and reliable booking platforms.
How to get around
Once in Ha Giang, traveling between towns and through the mountains is an adventure on its own. Ha Giang’s steep, winding roads offer some of the most scenic drives in Vietnam. There are no public transportation options between destinations, so you must travel by motorbike or car with a driver.
By motorbike
The most thrilling and immersive way to explore Ha Giang is by motorbike. The roads are well-paved but extremely winding and steep, requiring careful and skilled driving.
- If you lack experience, consider hiring an Easyrider guide, who will drive while you sit on the back.
- If you drive yourself, make sure you have proper motorbike experience—Ha Giang’s roads can be dangerous for beginners.
By car with wriver
A private car with a driver is the best option for those looking for comfort and safety. This is especially recommended for those traveling in groups or who prefer to avoid long hours on a motorbike.
- Jeep tours are also available, offering open-roof views of the landscape.
Itinerary 3 days in Ha Giang
This is a very brief itinerary of the route. Read a full detailed guide and route of the Ha Giang loop here.
Day 1
- Ha Giang
- Quan Ba Pass
- Tham Ma Pass
- Hmongs King Palace
- Dong Van
Day 2
- Dong Van
- Lung Cu Flag tower
- Ma Pi Leng pass
- Meo Vac
Day 3
- Meo Van
- Mau Due
- Du Gia
- Ha Giang
Best time to visit
Ha Giang’s breathtaking scenery can be enjoyed year-round, making it a great destination no matter when you visit. Unlike Sapa, which is highly dependent on rice field seasons, Ha Giang’s landscapes remain impressive throughout the year. However, if you plan to visit Hoang Su Phi, timing your trip with the rice harvest season (September–October) will give you the most spectacular views.
For those planning the Ha Giang Loop, here’s a breakdown of the best seasons to visit:
- Spring (March–May) & Autumn (September–November): Ideal weather with mild temperatures, minimal rain, and clear skies—perfect for motorbike trips.
- Winter (December–February): Dry but cold, especially in the mountains. Pack warm clothes or consider traveling by car for more comfort.
- Summer (June–August): The rainiest season, with heavy downpours, often in the afternoon. The warmer temperatures make it comfortable for riding, but be mindful of potential landslides and slippery roads. A car is a good option for those concerned about the rain.
For a detailed seasonal breakdown, check our guide on the best time to do the Ha Giang Loop.
Travel tips for visiting Ha Giang
Where to go next?
Ha Giang can be perfectly combined with the neighboring province Cao Bang, where you can find the Ban Gioc waterfall, the biggest waterfall of Vietnam. It is also possible to combine Ha Giang with Sapa, though the distance is quite a bit further. Check our Ha Giang tours for there two combination trips.
If you want to go to Halong Bay, Mai Chau, Ninh Binh or any other destination south, you would always need to travel first to Hanoi.
Ha Giang with kids
It is possible to bring you children to Ha Giang. Being in the car for 3 to 4 or even 5 days can be a bit much for them though. What children do love a lot is being on the back of a motorbike of an experience guide (from a certain age). Driving with a guide is very safe, though it is important that children are tall enough and comfortable with this idea.
Language
Ha Giang is still an undeveloped tourism destination, which is great for authenticity but can make communication challenging. Most ethnic minority locals do not speak English. Translation apps and offline maps are useful tools to bring along.
What to bring
- Pack light! If traveling by motorbike, a backpack is better than a suitcase.
- For summer: Light, breathable clothing, but prepare for rain with a waterproof jacket.
- For winter: Layered clothing, as mountain temperatures can drop significantly.
- For all seasons: A windbreaker is useful for cold winds at high altitudes.
Recommended days to stay
To do the Ha Giang Loop, you need at least:
- 3 days / 2 nights (just the main highlights)
- 4 or 5 days (recommended, more relaxed and enjoyable experience)
ATM’s & money exchange
ATMs are available in Ha Giang City, Dong Van, and Meo Vac. Small villages do not have ATMs, and most homestays and restaurants only accept cash. Make sure to withdraw enough money before heading into remote areas.
Respect local cultures
Ha Giang is home to many ethnic minorities, including the Hmong, Dao, Tay, Lo Lo, and Giay. These communities have unique traditions, clothing, and ways of life. Here’s how to be a respectful traveler:
- Be mindful of religious customs in villages and at sacred sites.
- Ask before taking photos of locals, especially women and children.
- Do not enter homes without an invitation.
- Avoid giving money or gifts to children—it encourages begging.
