If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, the Ha Giang Loop is definitely a must. In fact, it feels like one of the rare places in Vietnam that remains untouched by mass tourism.

“I’m ranking Ha Giang Loop in my top 3 experiences out of 35 countries I’ve been to” – Lila Inn’s customer reviewed.

The feeling of the wind whipping through your hair, the towering mountainous peaks, and the deep valleys below is unmatched. It’s an experience that won’t be found anywhere else in the world. 

Are you planning for the upcoming Ha Giang Loop adventure? This article is a must-read for first-time visitors!

Where is the Ha Giang Loop? What makes it unique?

Ha Giang – Asia’s Leading Emerging Tourism Destination, voted by World Travel Awards

The Ha Giang Loop, nestled in the northernmost part of Vietnam, spans 350 km of breathtaking mountain landscapes. Along this route, you’ll navigate challenging roads and pass by towering peaks, vibrant terraced fields, and hidden spots not found on Google Maps.

The region is home to 19 diverse ethnic groups, each with its own unique traditions and rich culture. You can engage with locals by joining in their farming, handicraft activities, traditional events.

Here, you will forget fast food and indulge in high-quality meals made from fresh, local ingredients.

It’s hard to describe how incredible this place is. Even professional photographers or good content writers can only offer a glimpse of what to expect. Photos or words don’t do it justice. Let’s experience it yourself!

How long do you need to complete the Ha Giang Loop? 

You can take Ha Giang Loop tours starting from Ha Giang City for 2 to 4 days.

If you’re extremely limited in time, a 2-day tour can cover the most popular attractions. However, we recommend at least 3 days to have a deeper experience.

The 4-day tour is ideal for those wanting to explore more of the Vietnam-China border, the northernmost point of Vietnam, and visit many remote villages.

• 2-Day Ha Giang Loop Express Adventure Tour
• 3-Day Ha Giang Loop Explorer’s Journey
• 4-Day Ultimate Ha Giang Loop Motorbike Adventure

There are also extensive tours that combine the Ha Giang Loop with lesser-known regions – Cao Bang and Ba Be National Park. These tours typically last 5 to 7 days, and only a few agencies offer them, making for a truly off-the-beaten-path adventure.

• 5-Day Ha Giang Loop & Ban Gioc Waterfall Discovery Tour 
• 7-Day Ha Giang, Ban Gioc, & Ba Be Epic Journey

Ha Giang Loop Map 

Whichever route you take, this map is a handy guide!

Top essential stops & activities – From well-known to lesser-known 

Ha Giang is divided into three distinct regions: the western mountains, northern rocky areas, and southern lowlands.

The western region, covering Hoang Su Phi and Xin Man, and the northern region, including Dong Van, Meo Vac, Yen Minh, and Quan Ba, offer stunning landscapes and cultural relics that attract tourists.

With eight years of exploration, Lila Inn has carefully curated must-do experiences in Ha Giang, guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.

Spots for spectacular views and photography

Dong Van Karst Plateau

The Dong Van Karst Plateau is rich in geological, cultural, and historical value and was named a UNESCO Global Geopark in 2010. It showcases ancient fossils, some dating back 400-600 million years.

Spanning Quan Ba, Yen Minh, Dong Van, and Meo Vac, the Stone Plateau is home to 17 ethnic groups.

Beyond its natural beauty, it reflects human resilience, as locals grow corn and vegetables in rocky cavities, skillfully managing irrigation to survive in harsh conditions.

Ma Pi Leng Pass

Ma Pi Leng, one of Vietnam’s “Four Greatest Passes”, is a 20 km stretch connecting Ha Giang City with Dong Van and Meo Vac.

Its name, meaning “horse’s nose,” describes terrain so steep that even horses hesitate to cross it. This pass is famous for its sharp, hairpin bends, some known as “Death Curve,” thrilling adventure-seekers and daring drivers alike.

From the pass’s base, you can hike 3 km to reach the iconic “Death Rock.” Another 2 km hike leads to the White Cliffs, where breathtaking views of the emerald green Nho Que River’s and Tu San Canyon.

Tham Ma Pass

Tham Ma Pass spans about 5 km, marked by sharp, winding curves between high stone walls, forming a scenic route.

Its name, “Tham Ma,” meaning “horse inspection,” originates from a local legend. In the past, horses carried goods up the steep slope; strong horses reaching the top were kept for breeding, while weaker ones were used for the traditional dish “Thang Co”.

Along the pass, you’ll meet local children in vibrant clothing, carrying baskets of flowers, adding color and charm to this lively destination.

Nho Que River

Nho Que River originates from Nghiem Son Mountain in China and flows into Vietnam’s Northwest region, stretching 192 km. It passes through Tu San Canyon, known as the deepest canyon in Southeast Asia. 

As you drift along the river by boat, surrounded by towering cliffs and the sound of wind rustling through the forest, the experience feels like a mesmerizing natural symphony.

Khau Lan Waterfall

Khau Lan Waterfall, hidden in Quan Ba district, is rarely touched by tourism or agency tours. The path to the waterfall meanders through lush forest, offering fresh air and scenic views, perfect for hiking and swimming.

With a powerful flow crashing into a pool below and surrounded by ancient trees and thick vines, the waterfall radiates a wild, natural beauty.

The Northest Point & Vietnam – China Border

On a 4-day tour or longer, you can visit Lung Cu, home to the flagpole marking Vietnam’s northernmost point.

Stroll along the Vietnam-China border, taking in the breathtaking landscapes of both countries. You’ll encounter many border markers; odd-numbered ones are placed by China, and even-numbered by Vietnam.

Remember, this area is sensitive, and crossing the border without authorization can lead to arrest or suspicions of spying.

Tay Con Linh Peak 

Tay Con Linh, Northeast Vietnam’s tallest peak at 2,428m, spans Hoang Su Phi and Vi Xuyen districts. This majestic mountain captivates adventurers with layered primeval forests, rare plants, towering trees, and a mossy, serene atmosphere.

While ascending, you’ll discover ancient “Shan Tuyet Co Thu” tea trees, some hundreds of years old. In spring, Tay Con Linh becomes enchanting as Rhododendrons bloom, their vibrant colors piercing the mist and clouds.

Hoang Su Phi Terraces

The terraced fields in Hoang Su Phi district span 11 communes, created centuries ago by the La Chi, Dao, and Nung communities. Using only simple tools like hoes, knives, and buffalo plows, they skillfully transformed the mountains into majestic, layered terraces.

The best times to visit are during the pouring water season (April to June) and rice ripening season (September to October). During these seasons, shimmering water and golden rice fields contrast with green mountains and small rooftops, creating a captivating landscape.

Art and architecture through the ages

The H’mong King Palace

Nestled in the heart of Sa Phin Valley, the H’mong King Palace, also known as Vuong King Palace, stands as a unique architectural art that harmoniously blends the influences of Chinese, French, and Hmong cultures.

Construction of this mansion took nearly a decade and is estimated to have cost around 6.3 million USD in today’s currency, reflecting the prosperity of the Vuong family.

Two-story houses with curved yin-yang tiled roofs and moss-covered stone walls adorned with intricate carvings blend strength with artistic beauty.

Craft of linen weaving in Lung Tam Village

Visit Lung Tam, you will have a chance to discover the intricate 41-step process that Hmong women produce exquisite hand-woven creations.

It demands a substantial amount of time and effort to complete various processes, including flax cultivation, fiber stripping, weaving, washing, drying, flating and dyeing.

You’ll be amazed to watch skilled artisans draw intricate brocade patterns without the aid of a ruler. The flax fabric is transformed into colorful dresses, scarves, and handbags, as well as decorative souvenirs and paintings.

Rammed earth house architecture in local villages

The rammed earth houses in Dong Van Ancient Town and surrounding villages reflect the resilience and creativity of local people. The houses not only showcase architectural significance but also reflect a harmonious relationship with nature, embodying environmentally friendly principles.

Built entirely from rammed earth, these houses have walls 40-60 cm thick and 3-4 meters high, offering excellent insulation. Reinforced with wooden beams and stone pillars, these durable structures have withstood time, with some being centuries old.

Vibrant Ha Giang flea markets 

Ha Giang flea market is more than just a place for trade; it’s a space for cultural exchange among ethnic groups. The H’mong, Dao, Tay, and Nung communities come in their colorful costumes, painting a vibrant picture of the highlands.

The markets don’t open every day. Instead, it follows a local calendar, with notable markets in Dong Van on Sundays and Meo Vac on Saturdays.

At the market, you’ll find local specialties, dishes, clothes, accessories, and even unique items like amulets, tiger paws, ect. 

The distinctive flavors of Ha Giang cuisine

Each dish in Ha Giang has a unique story, reflecting a lifestyle close to nature. This cuisine showcases the locals’ resilience in adapting to the region’s harsh conditions.

The most iconic dish is “thang co“, made from horse meat and intestines. Traditionally, it’s served with corn wine to help locals dispel the cold of the highlands.

During your tour, you’ll also find stalls selling “banh tam giac mach” – buckwheat cakes, known for their rich, slightly sweet taste.

Additionally, don’t miss “thit trau / bo gac bep” – smoked buffalo / beef, with its aromatic, chewy, and naturally sweet meat.