How can we best explore the Ha Giang loop in Vietnam?

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Ha Giang loop is no doubt among the best routes in Vietnam for anyone wanting to experience the adventurous feeling. If you still don’t know how to explore this loop, check out the ultimate guide about it now!

About Ha Giang loop

The Ha Giang Loop is a 300km circuit through the rural northern highlands of Vietnam. This scenic route winds through towering limestone mountains, vibrant green rice terraces and ethnic minority villages. The loop starts in Ha Giang City and heads east through Dong Van with its ‘geopark’ of unique rock formations. Then, it loops back west through Meo Vac’s hill tribe markets. 

Along the way, you’ll traverse the Ma Pi Leng Pass, considered one of Vietnam’s most beautiful mountain roads. Stop to admire the epic views of the Nho Que River winding through the valley far below. The loop continues past tranquil bamboo groves, grazing water buffalo, and women dressed in colorful costumes.

The Ha Giang Loop is not merely a scenic escapade; it is a cultural immersion. Along the way, you’ll encounter the H’mong, known for their vibrant attire and intricate embroidery, and the Tay, renowned for their hospitality and traditional lifestyle.

To have the best experience, we suggest you travel by motorbike as it’ll give you the most flexibility and independence. however, you can drive a car passing this loop for a comfortable feeling. However, you won’t be able to get as close to the scenery.

The meandering of Ha Giang loop (Source: Vietnam tourism)

When is it suitable to visit the loop? 

The best time to visit the Ha Giang Loop depends on your preferences for weather and activities. Here’s a breakdown of the different seasons and their suitability for exploring the loop:

  • Spring: It brings pleasant temperatures, blooming flowers, and lush greenery, making it an ideal time to enjoy the scenic beauty of the loop. With a lower chance of rain compared to other seasons, the roads are usually dry and comfortable for driving. However, it may have fog and mist, which can affect visibility, especially in mountainous areas.
  • Summer: It’s the hottest and most humid season in Ha Giang, with temperatures reaching up to 32°C. Rice paddies turn vibrant green, but views are more obscured by mist.
  • Fall: Fall is considered the most favorable season to visit Ha Giang Loop, as the weather is cool and dry. The skies are often clear and sunny, providing stunning views of the mountains and valleys. Also, it coincides with the buckwheat flower season, transforming the landscapes into a sea of pink and white flowers. 
  • Winter: Winter in Ha Giang Loop is characterized by cool temperatures, with occasional fog and light rain. While the lower temperatures might deter you, this season offers a unique opportunity to experience the loop’s serene and tranquil atmosphere.

Ha Giang Loop always welcomes you in every season (Source: Ha Giang News)

How do we best explore the Ha Giang loop? 

There are many ways for you to explore the beauty of the Ha Giang loop. However, with over 20 years of experience in tourism, we recommend you follow this itinerary to enjoy this loop thoroughly.

Day 1: Ha Giang Town to Yen Minh

After having breakfast, we’ll head to Lung Tam Weaving Village, a haven of traditional H’mong craftsmanship. You can witness firsthand the intricate techniques employed in their exquisite textiles. Also, take your time to admire the vibrant colors and patterns that adorn their creations.

Next, we’ll ascend to the summit of Lung Cu Flagpole – Vietnam’s northernmost point. As you stand atop this sacred site, you’ll marvel at the panoramic vistas of the majestic mountains that stretch before you. Remember to savor the tranquility of the surroundings, where the fluttering national flag symbolizes the country’s unity.

In the afternoon, continue your journey to Yen Minh, a charming village nestled amidst the breathtaking scenery. While being here, you’ll have a chance to enjoy the bustling night market, where an array of local delicacies, handicrafts, and souvenirs await your discovery. We recommend you taste the local cuisine of Yen Minh, which embodies the region’s culinary heritage.

Yen Minh is surrounded by the grand mountains (Source: Best price)

Day 2: Yen Minh to Du Gia

On day 2, we’ll embark on a scenic drive to Du Gia, a small village nestled amidst the breathtaking scenery. As you navigate the winding roads, take in the panoramic vistas of the mountains and valleys that unfold before you. Once you reach the village, take a tour around narrow streets, lined with traditional houses and adorned with colorful flowers. You should also engage with the friendly locals and gain insights into their unique way of life.

After having lunch, you’ll brace yourself for an unforgettable trek to the top of the Hoang Su Phi Rice Terraces. These cascading emerald steps are sculpted into the hillsides by the hands of generations of local farmers. Hence, they offer a breathtaking spectacle that has captivated travelers worldwide. 

The old architecture with cultural significance in Du Gia (Source: Mia)

Day 3: Du Gia to Meo Vac

Upon arrival in Meo Vac, we’ll embark on a thrilling journey through the Ma Pi Leng Pass. This steep mountain pass stretches around 20km long with sharp bends and hairpin turns winding through lush green hills. Make sure to stop at the lookout points to admire the vistas of the jagged limestone karsts rising all around.

Then, we’ll visit the Lo Lo village, which is home to the Lo ethnic group. When you’re here, take a tour through the village and admire the traditional clay houses, stone fences, and wooden structures. You can also embark on a trek through the verdant rice terraces surrounding the village to enjoy the tranquil ambiance. 

In the afternoon, you can visit the Meo Vac market to discover an array of local handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional attire. Also, tantalize your taste buds with the flavors of Meo Vac’s culinary traditions. The fresh, locally sourced ingredients prepared with passion and expertise will make you yearn to eat them forever! 

ha giang loop

The bustling atmosphere of Meo Vac markets (Source: ATP Software)

Final Thoughts

Here is the ultimate guide about the Ha Giang loop that will help you to understand it more. It’s always the top-list destination for people who want to enjoy the picturesque landscapes in Vietnam. If you’re about to visit the loop, simply follow our itinerary, and you will have unprecedented excitement in traveling.

Reviewed by

Diep Van

Phone: +84901166884

Email: diep.van@ftripvietnam.com

Diep Van

Founder & Photography Guide

Specialties: Culture, landscape, portrait, hiking, active and adventurous tour

Besides my unlimited passion for traveling, a professional tour guide for over a decade, I have been taking photographs since sitting at Hanoi of the University of Culture in the early 2000s. Photography started as a hobby but it was seriously taken due to my work relations and my significant passion for the beauty of our world, especially in Southeast Asian parts such as Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar.

Within a few years of taking photographs, my works began to be recognized by many reliable international publications such as AFAR Travel, The Times, and The Daily Telegraph newspaper. In addition, I continuously add to my growing profile by winning numerous major awards: 3rd Position of The Independent Photographer 2018, 1st Position of Amateur Photographer of the year 2018, Grand Prize Winner of the AFAR Travel Photography 2019, and a Gold Award of San Francisco Bay International Photography 2020.

I photograph a wide variety of subjects, from travel to landscapes to street scenes. I enjoy documenting the East’s rich cultural heritage and its land soaked in glorious sunrise or sunset light in remote and secluded spots. And, I am very happy to share my knowledge and experience with you. You can visit Luminousvietnamtour to explore tour!


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