5 Days Ha Giang Loop – Cao Bang – Ban Gioc Waterfall Discovery Tour

  • Ban Gioc Waterfall, Cao Bang, Ha Giang Loop
  • 4.9 (325+)
ban gioc waterfall ha giang loop cao bang tour
mountain angel eyes in ha giang loop cao bang tour
ngoc con village in ha giang loop cao bang tour
white cliff ma pi leng pass in ha giang loop cao bang tour
lung tam linen in ha giang loop cao bang tour

Suitable For

Shared group of below 10 passengers

Departure

Daily at 8:30 am from Ha Giang City

Duration

5 Days

4 Nights

Mode of Travel

Motorbike with Easy Riders, Self-riding, or Car

Tour Accommodation

Comfortable, well-equipped hostels

Tour meals

Good quality family-style meals

Description

Overview: Some of you may have heard of Cao Bang – an emerging hidden gem in Vietnam. Lila Inn & Tours offers a 5-day journey through both Ha Giang and Cao Bang for an expressive and unforgettable experience. Sound compelling? It is. This 5-day adventure leads you to Ha Giang’s iconic spots from Dong Van UNESCO Karst Plateau, Ma Pi Leng Pass to Nho Que River; wind along the dramatic Cao Bang’s Khau Coc Cha Pass, roam around the peaceful Ngoc Con Valley, and stand in awe of the majestic Ban Gioc Waterfall and more. It’s the relaxing and immersive journey for true explorers of the Northernmost.

Who is the Ha Giang Loop – Cao Bang 5 Days 4 Nights for?

  • Explorers chasing both Ha Giang’s peaks and Cao Bang’s hidden gems
  • Nature lovers wanting epic views plus calm lakeside and waterfall vibes
  • Culture seekers looking to connect with hill-tribe villages and quiet valleys

Note: Lila Team will do our best to drive you to all the listed destinations. However, we will adjust the duration and several stops depending on weather and road conditions. Any necessary changes will be informed to you.

DETAILED ITINERARY

Please arrange your own travel to Ha Giang City before the tour departure.

Lila Inn can assist you with booking a round-trip bus at standard prices from Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Long, Ninh Binh, or Cat Ba. Check bus schedules and book here.

We offer free dorm bed for one night prior to the tour. If you would like to upgrade to a private room, check the availability and book here.

dorm beds and private rooms at lila hostel for ha giang loop cao bang tour 5 day

7:30 AM Have breakfast, meet your guide/easy rider, and receive tour information at Lila Hostel in Ha Giang City before starting your adventure.

Get to Bac Sum Pass, the longest pass in Ha Giang, often likened to a giant snake slithering along steep cliffs.

Hike 30 minutes to Khau Lan Waterfall, nestled within lush tropical forests, preserving its wild and majestic beauty.

khau lan waterfall in ha giang loop cao bang tour 5 day

Arrive at Quan Ba Heaven Gate and enjoy panoramic views of Tam Son Town.

quan ba heaven gate in ha giang loop cao bang tour 5 day

Have lunch in Quan Ba, savoring authentic local dishes prepared with fresh mountain ingredients.

Pass by Nam Dam Cultural Village, a beautiful blend of terraced fields and primaeval forests, featuring traditional rammed earth houses of the Dao people.

nam dam cultural village in ha giang loop cao bang tour 5 day

Visit Linen Weaving Village, a long-standing traditional craft village of brocade weaving by the Hmong.

lung tam linen cooperative in ha giang loop cao bang tour 5 day

Take in the breathtaking views at Can Ty Viewpoint and sightsee rice terraces at Lao Va Chai. Photograph the golden-green terraced fields cascading down mountain slopes like nature’s stairway to heaven.

can ty viewpoint in ha giang loop cao bang tour 5 day

Get your way to Yen Minh Town and check in your accommodation.

7:00 PM Enjoy a family dinner. Taste corn wine as part of the local greeting culture, share stories, and enjoy music.

family dinner in yen minh town in ha giang loop cao bang tour 5 day

7:30 AM Have breakfast, from Yen Minh head to Dong Van Karst Plateau UNESCO Global Geopark, a natural geological museum over 80 million years old.

Reach the legendary Tham Ma Pass, a historical site with continuous hairpin bends where horses were once tested for strength and endurance.

tham ma pass in ha giang loop cao bang tour 5 day

Continue through the steep Nine-Turn Pass and sightsee Pho Cao Valley.

pho cao and sung la valley in ha giang loop cao bang tour 5 day

Pass by Pho Bang and Lao Xa, the charming, peaceful villages known for their ancient earthen houses, moss-covered tiled roofs, home of H’mong and ethnic Chinese people.

lao xa village in ha giang loop cao bang tour 5 day

Visit Cau Ha Living Museum, where century-old houses, stone fences, traditional tools, and everyday objects remain part of local life.

Pass through Ma Che, home to the Co Lao (one of Vietnam’s smallest ethnic groups) and Hmong communities. If time permits, visit a local village to discover traditional bamboo and rattan weaving.

Have lunch in Sa Phin or Dong Van.

Conquer the stunning Ma Pi Leng Pass, known as the “King of Passes” with extremely sharp hairpin bends for spectacular mountain views.

ma pi leng pass in ha giang loop cao bang tour 5 day

9:30 AM – There are 2 options for you:

  • Option 1: Hike 5 km to White Cliff for unmatched panoramic views of the Nho Que River, Tu San Canyon and surrounding landscapes. Challenge yourself with this rewarding trek to one of Northern Vietnam’s most photographed viewpoints.

 

hike 5 km to white cliff in ha giang loop tour 2 day

  • Option 2: Enjoy a boat ride (about 30 minutes) on the emerald Nho Que River, sightseeing Tu San Canyon, the deepest canyon in Southeast Asia. (Boat tickets are self-funded, 150.000 VND ~ USD 6 per person).

 

nho que river in ha giang loop cao bang tour 5 day

Check in to your accommodation in Meo Vac Town.

7:00 PM Enjoy a family dinner. Taste corn wine as part of the local greeting culture, share stories, and enjoy music.

family dinner in dong van town in ha giang loop cao bang tour 5 day

7:30 AM Enjoy breakfast and explore Meo Vac Ethnic Market (Sunday mornings), a vibrant gathering of local ethnic communities filled with colorful traditional attire, lively trading, and rich cultural traditions.

dong van ethnic market in ha giang loop cao bang tour 5 day

Stop at Mi Po Viewpoint for a coffee while soaking in breathtaking panoramic views of the majestic mountains and Nho Que River.

Have lunch in Meo Vac, sampling local specialties in this remote frontier town.

Proceed to Cao Bang territory, arriving in Bao Lac Town. Journey through changing landscapes as you enter Cao Bang province’s verdant valleys.

Check in accommodation in Bao Lac Town and stay the night here. Enjoy a family dinner and rest up for tomorrow’s adventures.

family dinner in bao lac town in ha giang loop cao bang tour 5 day

7:30 AM Have breakfast, then continue the journey through Khau Coc Cha Pass, one of Vietnam’s Four Great Passes with 15 vertical levels. Experience the engineering marvel of this serpentine mountain road zigzagging dramatically up the mountainside.

khau coc cha pass in ha giang loop cao bang tour 5 day

Continue to Cao Bac Pass to admire terraced fields and mist-covered villages. Watch morning fog lift from valleys below, revealing emerald rice terraces and traditional mountain hamlets.

Traverse the lesser-known Na Tenh Pass, which features impressive 20 gentle curves. Enjoy this hidden gem where stunning scenery meets peaceful riding through pristine mountain landscapes.

na tenh pass in ha giang loop cao bang tour 5 day

Have lunch in Tra Linh District, enjoying local flavors in this off-the-beaten-path location.

Venture into the Ngoc Con Valley, where traditional Tay ethnic cultures thrive amidst picturesque paddy fields. Step into a world where time moves slowly and ancient traditions remain vibrant.

phong nam and ngoc con valley in ha giang loop cao bang tour 5 day

Stroll through the 400-year-old Khuoi Ky Stone Village and explore the stone stilt houses of the Tay people. 

khuoi ky stone village in ha giang loop cao bang tour 5 day

Check in to your accommodation near Ban Gioc Waterfall. Enjoy dinner with local foods and rest well, tomorrow brings the grand finale of your journey!

family dinner in ban gioc waterfall in ha giang loop cao bang tour 5 day

7:30 AM Have breakfast then discover the remarkable limestone grotto Nguom Ngao Cave. Explore this 3-kilometer underground wonderland filled with spectacular stalactites and stalagmites, illuminated to reveal nature’s artistry millions of years in the making.

nguom ngao cave in ha giang loop cao bang tour 5 day

Hike to Phat Tich Truc Lam Pagoda to enjoy the panoramic view of the waterfall and rolling mountains from above. Capture breathtaking aerial perspectives of Ban Gioc Waterfall from this serene hilltop temple.

phat tich truc lam pagoda in ha giang loop cao bang tour 5 day

Take a boat ride at the majestic Ban Gioc Waterfall, situated on the jade-blue waters of the Quay Son River flowing from China. Feel the mist on your face as you approach Vietnam’s largest and most spectacular waterfall, 300 meters wide and cascading in three tiers along the Vietnam-China border. 

ban gioc warterfall in ha giang loop cao bang tour 5 day

Have lunch in Trung Khanh, savoring your final mountain meal of the journey.

Visit the mysterious Mountain Angel Eye (Thang Hen Lake), nestled in the valley. Witness this incredible natural beauty, a perfectly round lake surrounded by mountains, appearing like an eye gazing up at the sky. 

mountain angel eyes in ha giang loop cao bang tour 5 day

3:00 PM Conclude your tour in Cao Bang City, carrying with you unforgettable memories of Northern Vietnam’s most spectacular landscapes, warm hospitality, and the adventure of a lifetime!

Suggestions after the tour (not included in the tour price) 

The tour ends in Cao Bang City, you can consider these 3 options:

  • Option 1: Stay in Cao Bang overnight and depart for Hanoi the next morning.
  • Option 2: Take a night bus from Cao Bang to Hanoi. From Hanoi, you can easily connect to other destinations like Ninh Binh, Cat Ba, or Ha Long.
  • Option 3: Extend your tour to 6 days:
    • Stay overnight in Cao Bang City after the tour.
    • Return to Ha Giang the following day (7-8 hours by motorbike).
    • Then take a night bus from Ha Giang to Hanoi.
    • 1-day Tour extension package: 1,000,000 VND/person, including accommodation in a private double room (shared by 2 people), 1 dinner, 1 breakfast, 1 lunch, an Easy Rider, and a motorbike.

Please contact us if you need assistance with these options.

Note: Direct buses from Cao Bang to other provinces are either unavailable or in poor condition, so we highly recommend these options.

Ha Giang - Cao Bang Loop Map 5 Days 4 Nights

Tour Package Prices

Packing List

Loved by Our Friends

Alisia Sciacca

Alisia Sciacca

US
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I can’t say enough good things about LiLa Inn, especially the staff. When we arrived we had the intention of driving the loop ourselves. Being from the USA, we unfortunately did not have the proper license to do. The front desk went over every possibility for us and took 2 hours of their time to figure everything out. They will hold your hand through the process, and that is worth the stay alone. We’re actually staying with them again when we head back to Ha Giang once we’re done with the loop.

Esther Wong

Esther Wong

Australia
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

If you’re thinking of doing the Ha Giang/Cao Bang loop, look no further than Lila Inn.

We wanted to do Ha Giang and Cao Bang in 5D4N and not many companies offered this. We also wanted to avoid the big companies where they group people in hordes of 20-30, going to packed touristy places/routes with drinking and partying every night.

We are so so glad to have done the loop with them. We had a group of 5 people in total, all like minded people and we visited famous places as well as quiet spots. We even did a little hike on day 2 where there was no one else but us. The first 3 days were the 5 of us with an easy rider each, then the last two days were just my partner and I (basically private tour) as we continued onto Cao Bang and everyone else the rest of Ha Giang.

The easy riders are fantastic too. Very kind, caring and fun people to be with. We felt safe the whole time as they’re great drivers, and it was just a very intimate experience of the loop as we avoided big crowds most of the time.

Special shout out to Ninh, Ngân, Tuyển, Thanh and Lưu who went above and beyond for our trip.

My K

From Canada
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This was an amazing trip I had with Lila, what I expected for years to visit Ha Giang. As a Vietnamese person living abroad and far away from my family and country. I always want to visit the north of VN anytime I visit my family. This time I chose Ha Giang. Going with Lila was a great experience, because I like small group, and feel safe with the driver. I am a bit low key, so the trip had enough time for me to enjoy the quiet place, met local people and also chill. One day was rainy and gloomy, not perfect to see the view on the road, but other days were sunny and cool, it was interesting to have different weather too with wonderful mountainous landscapes surrounding.

Tip: if you worry about the weather, just ask Lila, they are informative and supportive, they will give you some good tips for the trip.

Michelle Foxon

From United Kingdom
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Ha Giang Loop, Vietnam 🇻🇳 with Lila Tours. There aren’t quite enough words to fully capture how incredible the past four days have been—but I’ll try.Riding on the back of a motorbike through some of the most breathtaking landscapes I’ve ever seen, I felt completely immersed in the beauty, culture, and spirit of northern Vietnam. We travelled through towering mountains, lush fields, winding roads, hidden caves, waterfalls, tiny villages, and vibrant local markets. Every turn brought something new—goats, chickens, butterflies, rivers, bridges, and countless warm smiles from the local people.Each night we stayed in the most welcoming homestays, where we were treated to delicious, fresh, home-cooked meals that tasted like love on a plate. In the evenings, we joined in with karaoke sessions or local town parties—laughing, dancing, singing, and connecting with both locals and fellow travellers in the most heartwarming way.The Ha Giang Loop is home to a rich tapestry of ethnic groups, including the H’mong, Tay, Dao, Nung, Lo Lo, and Giay. We had the chance to meet some of them, witness how they live, and learn about their traditions—an experience that was humbling and eye-opening.I want to give a huge shoutout to Tuyen, my Easy Rider, who went above and beyond every single day to make sure I was okay. He kept me safe, well-fed, and upright (even when I nearly toppled over!). He was a true angel—gentle, attentive, and kind—and not once did I ever feel at risk.I’m so glad I chose Lila Tours. Our small group of three, each paired with a local pro rider, made the experience even more personal and special. This was one of the most magical experiences of my life. I could honestly write a book or make a short film about everything we saw, did, and felt. I’ve never felt more alive, more peaceful, or more connected to the world around me.These are the kinds of moments that remind you to live deeply, to chase experiences that expand your heart and mind, and to reflect on the life you truly want to create. I’m filled with gratitude—for the journey, the people, and the privilege to witness such beauty.If you’re an adventurous soul heading to Vietnam, please put the Ha Giang Loop on your list. I promise—it will change you.

Kim-Thi Thai

From Vietnam
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

We had an unforgettable experience doing the Hà Giang Loop with Lila Inn Tour Group! Our guides were incredibly kind and knowledgeable — they knew the roads inside out and made sure we got to see everything we asked for, including the stunning Mã Pí Lèng Pass, Nho Quế River, and Mạc Lẻo.

I don’t eat meat, and they made sure all my meals — lunch and dinner — matched my dietary needs. One night, my family was craving lẩu, and they made it happen with no problem.

We only had 2 days and 1 night, but the guides worked around our schedule and delivered exactly what we wanted. We’re so happy with the experience and will always remember our guides with so much appreciation.

I also want to thank Lila Inn for refunding my deposit the week before when I had to cancel last minute due to rain. Their understanding and flexibility meant so much.

My family is already planning to come back for a 5D4N trip next time we’re in Vietnam. So, so happy!

Thank you so much Lila Inn & Tours

Eric C

From United States
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

What an incredible experience! I can not recommend doing the Ha Giang Loop and booking through Lila Inn.

They ensured our experience was the best and were very helpful throughout. The small group size was the best and ensured a very intimate experience. We saw many hidden gems.

The accommodation the evening before starting and the bag storage is a great additional benefit! We also booked transport to and from Hanoi through them (also worked out very well – I would recommend the VIP sleeper bus!)

The easy riders were the best. They took such great care of us and really know what they are doing. We considered driving on our own, but it was the best decision to take an easy rider. Some of the roads are quite technical and also the police were quite strict!

Overall, 10/10 to Lila Inn, their easy riders, and the Ha Giang Loop!

Alisia Sciacca

From US
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I can’t say enough good things about LiLa Inn, especially the staff. When we arrived we had the intention of driving the loop ourselves. Being from the USA, we unfortunately did not have the proper license to do. The front desk went over every possibility for us and took 2 hours of their time to figure everything out. They will hold your hand through the process, and that is worth the stay alone. We’re actually staying with them again when we head back to Ha Giang once we’re done with the loop.

Esther Wong

From Australia
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

If you’re thinking of doing the Ha Giang/Cao Bang loop, look no further than Lila Inn.

We wanted to do Ha Giang and Cao Bang in 5D4N and not many companies offered this. We also wanted to avoid the big companies where they group people in hordes of 20-30, going to packed touristy places/routes with drinking and partying every night.

We are so so glad to have done the loop with them. We had a group of 5 people in total, all like minded people and we visited famous places as well as quiet spots. We even did a little hike on day 2 where there was no one else but us. The first 3 days were the 5 of us with an easy rider each, then the last two days were just my partner and I (basically private tour) as we continued onto Cao Bang and everyone else the rest of Ha Giang.

The easy riders are fantastic too. Very kind, caring and fun people to be with. We felt safe the whole time as they’re great drivers, and it was just a very intimate experience of the loop as we avoided big crowds most of the time.

Special shout out to Ninh, Ngân, Tuyển, Thanh and Lưu who went above and beyond for our trip.

FAQs

faq-icon-classFrequently Asked Questions for 5 Days Ha Giang Loop – Cao Bang – Ban Gioc Waterfall Discovery Tour Expand All

  • I don't have 5 days available. Do you offer a 4-day Ha Giang and Cao Bang tour?

  • Which tour should I choose: the 5D4N Ha Giang & Cao Bang or the 4D3N Complete Ha Giang Loop?

  • How can I bring my luggage during the 5D4N tour if the tour ends in Cao Bang City?

  • Are your Easy Riders friendly and welcoming to international travelers?

  • What kind of motorbikes do your Easy Riders use?

  • Can I book this tour last minute, or do I need to plan ahead?

  • What do the rooms on the tour look like?

  • Can you accommodate Vegans and Vegetarians on your tours?

  • What do the foods served during the tour look like?

  • I don’t want to join a group. Do you offer private tours, and what is the surcharge?

  • Where can I stay if I arrive in Ha Giang City early before the start of the tour?

  • How long will I be riding and walking/hiking each day on the loop?

  • Can I bring children on this 5-day tour?

5 Days Ha Giang Loop – Cao Bang – Ban Gioc Waterfall Discovery Tour

From USD 346 / PAX

Approx VND 9000000 / PAX

Included in price

  • Local Motorbike Rider (150cc), Self-Riding Motorbike, or SUV Car Options
  • Pleasant Accommodations
  • Entrance Fees to Specified Attractions (exclude Foreigners’ Border Entry Permits)
  • Authentic Local Meals & Still Water
  • Safety Equipment & First Aid Kit
  • Exclusively designed T-shirt
  • Free Luggage Storage

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