Ha Giang Loop in Vietnam: An In-depth Guide to a Wonderful Road Trip

10/27/2023
By ATA

Ha Giang Loop in Vietnam is an incredible journey for locals and tourists. Numerous people looking for a breathtaking adventure on their motorcycles flock to this Northeastern mountainous region of Vietnam each year to explore the picturesque roads and magnificent scenery.

And the Ha Giang loop is known as a thrilling escapade for any travel bucket list. However, is the Ha Giang loop safe? My experience will help you to enjoy your journey without any worries. Now, let's dive into how to do the Ha Giang loop!

Ha Giang Loop Facts

The Ha Giang loop is glorified as one of the most picturesque places in Vietnam. It includes the routes that pass through spectacular mountains and valleys.

What Is Ha Giang Loop?

Ha Giang loop

The Ha Giang loop is a long, narrow, twisting route that connects Ha Giang and Cao Bang. The route starts and finishes at the same points, drawing a circle-like shape.

For instance, if we kick off our journey at milestone No.0 in Ha Giang, we'll get to Quan Ba and Yen Minh before passing by Dong Van, Meo Vac, and Bao Lam. Then, we'll loop to milestone No.0 in Ha Giang.

The Ha Giang loop is well-known for its tourist attractions, breathtaking mountain vistas, and unsettling cliffs. It also passes through picturesque towns, green rice terraces, and gorgeous flowing rivers.

Where Is Ha Giang Loop?

The Ha Giang loop begins from Ha Giang, which is a province located in northeast Vietnam. The route runs through the Cao Bang province before ending in Ha Giang.

Ha Giang loop is not far from the border between Vietnam and China. Doing the Ha Giang loop, you'll have an opportunity to visit the Lung Cu Flag Tower, considered the North Pole of Vietnam.

What's The Weather Like In Ha Giang Loop?

Ha Giang's climate has the characteristics of a tropical monsoon climate. It rains throughout the year with high humidity. However, there are diverse weather zones in Ha Giang. It's cool and cold in high regions but hot in the lower areas.

Weather also varies depending on different times of the year:

  • October to March: The temperature in the lower valleys can reach 20°C/68°F on sunny days. If it's cloudy, the temperature in the mountains may quickly drop below 10°C/50°F.

  • March to May: The temperature rises to over 20°C on sunny days.

  • May to September: In the lower valleys, temperatures can soar to the upper 30s°C range. There's a lot of humidity and heavy rains coming with thunder.

Particularly, the Dong Van plateau area is mostly covered by thick fog throughout the year. It is that mysterious weather that has attracted the curiosity of adventurers.

When To Do Ha Giang Loop?

Buckwheat flower fields

October to April is the best time to do the Ha Giang loop. Although it's cold, it's sunny, making the roads dry and safer. It's not easy to say when to go to Ha Giang because every season has its own charm.

  • January, February and March:

It's the dry season with little rain. It's sunny and cold at the same time. Sometimes, it's clear and becomes foggy suddenly. These months coincide with Tet - a New Year holiday in Vietnam. Thus, if lucky, you'll participate in more than one traditional festival of ethnic groups in Ha Giang.

Because it is spring, there are many flowers and magnificent natural scenery. However, be aware that there will be many tourists there.

  • April and May:

In April and May, it's sunny with minimal rain. The sky is clear, and the temperature is higher. It's not crowded this season.

  • June, July and August:

It's the hottest period of the year, with much rain and high humidity. Doing the loop this time is not recommended to avoid accidents caused by the slipping roads.

  • September, October, November and December:

These months are the best time to do the Ha Giang loop. It is an opportunity to admire the majestic scenery with brilliant flowers.

You will experience the most exciting activities, such as hunting clouds, catching snowfall, and enjoying delicious specialties in the bitter cold.

How Long Is Ha Giang Loop?

The main loop is 350 kilometers long overall. The journey may be finished in two days. Yet, I advise exploring the breathtaking surroundings for two to five days.

Is Ha Giang Loop Safe?

Ha Giang loop is unsafe for beginners because of the hazardous terrain, erratic weather, and diminished visibility. You may drive off the edge of a cliff whenever you lose focus on your wheel.

Here are some driving tips while doing the Ha Giang loop:

  • Keep your eye out for any changes in the weather.

  • Buy travel insurance before riding a motorbike in Vietnam.

  • Use a new motorbike.

  • Check the brakes, suspension, and chains, and give it an oil change before every departure.

  • Protect your body with warm clothes and high-quality motorcycle gear.

  • Put your luggage in place with a seat belt.

  • Do not obstruct local people traveling on the road

  • Honk before reaching the turn.

  • Do not exceed the speed limit.

  • Do not drive at night and when it's raining.

Is Ha Giang Loop Hard To Drive?

Although the road condition in Ha Giang loop is good, some damaged and rugged areas make it hard to drive. Be ready for giant potholes, tight hairpin turns, and elevation changes on the route.

The roads may be very narrow in some areas. Climbing steep slopes, such as Bac Sum and Chin Khoanh, with old vehicles, can be challenging.

Is Ha Giang Loop Worth It?

A H'mong Family

Despite the risks and difficulties, the Ha Giang loop remains one of Southeast Asia's most incredible road excursions. The route specifically travels via Ma Pi Leng, one of Vietnam's four famous passes.

Conquering the Ha Giang loop requires overcoming challenges and anxieties. However, the unforgettable experiences you'll have are well worth it for the following reasons:

  • Rich culture

There are 17 ethnic groups in Ha Giang. The Mong, Tay, and Dao Cham people are the most prevalent ethnic groups in Dong Van. Red Mong, Dao Cham, and La Chi mostly live in Hoang Su Phi and Xin Man.

Ha Giang's ethnic minority still maintains their cultural identity. For instance, the Mong people continue to practice the habit of eating noodles and drinking maize wine.

La Chi people sip wine from buffalo horns. They place buffalo horns in front of their graves. The Dao Cham people inhabit mud-walled homes and wear indigo-colored clothing and caps with distinctive embroidery.

  • Intense potential vitality

On the Dong Van plateau, there is no area for growing rice. Little water is available for irrigation during the dry season. There is frost in winter, making plants wilt and die.

The Mong people must transport dirt from the lower area to grow corn. They've picked up rocks and arranged them into fences to stop the soil from eroding.

Through this, we can see the strong vitality of mountain people despite the harsh terrain.

  • Fresh air

The air is very fresh because Ha Giang is a pristine land without a little human intervention. The ground, sky, mountains, and trees seem to radiate a positive energy that helps you escape the pressures of bustling city life.

  • Mouth-watering cuisine

Ha Giang's cuisine is made of clean and fresh foods. There are mouth-watering dishes that you've never tried anywhere else for sure.

  • Spectacular flower fields

Ha Giang is referred to as the land of flowers. Buckwheat produces flowers in November and December. The vast flower fields fluttering on the mountainside have stolen many hearts.

How To Do The Ha Giang Loop?

There are two ways to get to Ha Giang:

  • Go to Ha Giang loop from Hanoi

You can get to Ha Giang from Hanoi by motorcycle, private car, or minivan. Getting from Hanoi to Ha Giang overall takes roughly 6-7 hours.

Because there are many suppliers, you will have many price options. Flexible timetables allow you to depart during the day or at night.

  • Go to Ha Giang loop from Sapa

There are a lot of means of transportation to travel from Sapa to Ha Giang: bus, taxi, minivan, and motorcycle. It takes 6-7 hours to get to Ha Giang.

You can buy a bus ticket at the Sapa bus station or call your suppliers to book a tour. If you have a group of 3-4 members, you all can catch a cab to Ha Giang.

The following section discusses how to complete the Ha Giang Loop by Motorbike, car, jeep, bicycle, and tour bus.

By Motorbike

Travel by motorbike

  • Semi-automatic motorcycle

A semi-automatic motorbike on the Ha Giang Loop is the most typical. They lack a clutch but have gears, making riding up and down slopes easy.

Honda Future 125cc and the Honda Wave Blade 110cc are perfect for beginners.

  • Manual motorbike

Manual motorbikes are ideal vehicles for experienced riders. It lets you choose the perfect gear for the task with a clutch and manual gearbox. The Honda Master 125cc, Honda CB150, and Honda XR 150 are three good choices.

It's easy to rent a motorcycle in Ha Giang City. However, a good vehicle is not enough. High-quality protective gear is necessary for a safe adventure.

  • Helmet: A pull-down full-face visor shields you from the weather and the obstacles.

  • Footwear: Trainers or hiking boots are highly recommended. Stay away from flip-flops.

  • Jacket: Riding jacket is the best pick. If not, you'll need a heavy "North Face" jacket.

  • Bottom: Wear a lightweight pair of thermal leggings under your hiking pants.

  • Gloves: Opt for light, warm, and waterproof riding gloves.

  • Amour and pads: Arm and knee pads absorb the impact when falling.

  • Raincoat: Raincoat will protect you from rain and fog.

By Bicycle

If you're up for the effort, you may ride a bicycle. A non-motorized vehicle allows you to completely take in Vietnam's natural beauty at your leisure without the interruption of loud noise.

By Car, Jeep & Camper Van

  • SUV: A spacious, comfortable, and fuel-efficient SUV is ideal for extended road journeys with many people.

  • Jeep: A jeep can be the best option if you need something tougher to navigate rough terrain.

  • Camper van: A camper van is a great option for those who don't want to make hotel reservations every night.

By Bus

Booking a bus tour is another suggestion for the old and young people who wish to visit the uncommonly gorgeous landscape. A 16-seater bus is compact enough to wriggle through curves yet roomy for various activities.

In addition, the bus will keep you dry and warm during harsh weather. You'll be able to have helpful tourist advice and interesting stories from your guide.

Can You Do Ha Giang Loop Alone?

You can do the Ha Giang loop alone if you have experience. If you're a beginner, a solo adventure in Ha Giang is not for you.

When you arrive in Ha Giang, you must arrange everything independently, including a motorbike rental, accommodation, food, water, fuel, etc. Criminals will also pay more attention to lone travelers.

However, following the common safety procedures can complete the loop. Numerous travel tips teach you how to prepare your budget and what to pack before making the Ha Giang loop.

Always stock up on snacks and meals before venturing out because getting food and water in isolated regions might be challenging.

Ha Giang Loop Without License

Without a driver's license, you can still ride a motorbike or car on the Ha Giang loop. However, before doing that, you must be aware of possible fines if caught.

If you are lucky, you will only get an administrative fine ranging from a few hundred to a few million. If you cause an accident or are involved in any collision, you will be in big trouble, such as having your vehicle impounded.

Even if those risks are not an issue, having an international driving license is your responsibility.

Experience Ha Giang Loop With Driver

Having a skilled driver with you is a safer way to complete the Ha Giang loop. An experienced companion can become your tour guide, guard, and friend.

In addition to keeping an eye on each other, you may share travel and accommodation expenses, making it easier to stay on a budget. Therefore, if you're inexperienced, think about bringing a reliable driver.

What To Pack For The Ha Giang Loop?

Here is the Ha Giang loop packing list I strongly advise you carry with you:

  • Waterproof backpack

  • Quick-dry travel towel

  • Portable Power Bank

  • Clothes

  • Hiking boots

  • Protective gear

  • Medicine

  • Initial Aid Kit

  • Bandages and antibacterial cream, antibiotic

  • Raincoat

  • Camera/GoPro

  • Mobile phones with large data

  • Route map of Ha Giang loop

  • Sunscreen

  • Sunglasses

  • Toiletries

  • Flashlights

  • Travel insurance: It offers financial security during accidents or emergencies when traveling.

  • Cash: Bring enough money because there aren't many ATMs when out of the city.

  • Hidden money wallet: It keeps your cash and other valuables secure.

  • Reusable water bottle: It purifies your water.

  • Motorbike tent if you want to spend the night outside.

  • Contact information for your hostel or someone you may call in an emergency.

Where To Stay In Ha Giang?

There are many different places to stay in Ha Giang. Refer to my suggestions for the top hotels in Ha Giang City below, which will satisfy the requirements of tourists of all budgets and tastes.

  • Ha Giang Hostel

  • LiLa Inn & Small Group Tours

  • Golden Jungle House

  • Phoenix Hotel Hà Giang

  • Odyssey Hà Giang Hostel

  • H'Mong Village Resort

How Many Days Does It Take To Do The Ha Giang Loop?

It often takes 3–5 days to complete the Ha Giang Loop. I think it is preferable to have a flexible timetable than to follow a rigid itinerary.

Numerous factors are beyond your control, such as the weather or traffic. You may also desire to remain longer in a place because you enjoy it so much.

How Much Does The Ha Giang Loop Cost?

The total per person per day was about 460,000 VND, equivalent to $20.

  • Motorbike rental: 150,000 VND

  • Fuel: 40,000 VND

  • Meals: 120,000 VND

  • Water/Snacks: 50,000 VND

  • Accommodation: 100,000 VND

Total per day: 460,000 VND ($20)

Ha Giang Loop Tours in Vietnam

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  • Starts/Ends:Hanoi/Hanoi
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  • Age range:1 To 90 Years
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  • Day 2: Ha Giang City to Quan Ba to Yen Minh to Dong Van

  • Day 3: Dong Van to Meo Vac to Ha Giang City

  • Day 4: Ha Giang City to Hanoi

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  • Suitable for:Family, Group, Couple
  • Age range:1 To 90 Years
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  • Day 3: Dong Van Karst Geopark

  • Day 4: Meo Vac to Ha Giang City

  • Day 5: Ha Giang City to Hanoi

Discovery North – East Vietnam 13 Days2 Reviews20 % off
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  • Day 2: Hanoi City Tour

  • Day 3: Hanoi to Hoang Su Phi to Ha Giang

  • Day 4: Ha Giang to Quang Ba to Yen Minh to Dong Van

  • Day 5: Dong Van to Ma Phi Leng to Meo Vac

  • Day 6: Meo Vac to Bao Lac to LoLo Village

  • Day 7: Bao Lac to Ba Be Lake

  • Day 8: Ba Be Lake Tour

  • Day 9: Ba Be to Hanoi

My Experience: Ha Giang Loop Vietnam Map

In October, when it was not too hot or cold, I traveled to Ha Giang. It rarely rains, and visibility is good during the day.

I rode my motorbike around the magnificent Ha Giang loop for four days. When I first saw Ma Pi Leng pass, my heart tightened with anticipation.

Words couldn't express my excitement when driving one of the world's most picturesque routes across the high mountain passes. My encounters with minorities, homestays, and off-the-beaten-path locations left a big impression on my heart.

If you also want to have a great experience like I had, you can refer to the route map suggested below:

Day 1: Ha Giang to Quan Ba to Yen Minh – 100km

6:00 Mama's house backpacker hostel

I left Mama's house backpacker hostel after finishing breakfast. I and three other friends got into a taxi.

6:10 MOTOGO Ha Giang

We arrived at MOTOGO Ha Giang, a 5-minute walk from Ha Giang Bus Station. MOTOGO is a nationwide system providing various new motorbikes.

We rented two Yamaha Sirius 110 ccs, which are semi-automatic motorcycles. The lessor asked us to leave our identification card and airline ticket information.

7:00 4C National Highway

We officially departed after completing the procedures and vehicle inspection. Because we knew how to drive motorbikes, we were quite confident in participating in traffic.

7:15 Ha Giang Milestone No.0

We arrived at Ha Giang Milestone No.0. We continued driving along the 4C National Highway to a bridge crossing the Mien River.

When crossing the river's other side, the houses become sparse, and the air is cleaner. The road is still quite even, with a few curves.

8:00 Lung Buong village

We arrived at Lung Buong village, located on the side of National Highway 4C. Since we had been driving for an hour, we decided to walk around the town.

There are not many households living here. They mainly live in old wooden houses. We were lucky to see a herd of goats passing by. After resting, drinking water, and eating some snacks, we departed.

9:00 Bac Sum slope

Doc Bac Sum is the longest slope in Ha Giang province. It is 7 km long and 450m high. The road becomes more difficult to drive on—many curves obscure visibility.

Bac Sum Slope is one of the most challenging roads that encourage many backpackers to conquer. The length and zigzag turns of the Bac Sum slope made us both dizzy and excited.

We saw a vast green region of rolling mountains from the Bac Sum slope. We were so excited that we screamed when we saw a field of buckwheat flowers on the mountainside.

9:50 Quan Ba Heaven Gate

We went to Quan Ba Heaven Gate, which attracts many tourists. This place is famous for its picturesque scenery of majestic mountains and magical fog.

It was almost noon; we sat on the roadside to eat some bread we had bought in the morning in Ha Giang City. After that, we sat in Heaven Gate cafe for sightseeing and taking a nap.

12:20 Heaven Gate cafe

We continued our journey to Yen Minh town. We drove continuously for nearly 40 km to get to Yen Minh Pine Forest.

13:50 Yen Minh Pine Forest

We decided to go into the forest to avoid the sun. The ground was quite clean, so we spread out a tarp to lie down and watch the pine forest and the sky.

I walked around while my friend lay next to the vehicles, and another friend took pictures. It feels like all the fatigue has disappeared.

We left the pine forest and drove another 10 km to the Yen Minh tower.

15:00 Yen Minh tower

We walked on our motorcycle to get there because the road from Highway 4C to Yen Minh Tower was steep. We were impressed by the peaceful scenery and buckwheat flower fields when we climbed to the highest floor.

16:00 Yen Minh town

We checked in at Tom Homestay in Yen Minh town. After taking a shower, we walked along the streets. Because the town is small, it doesn't take too long to visit.

17:00 Bang Thao restaurant

We entered Bang Thao restaurant, located near the martyrs' cemetery. We enjoyed hotpot and several dishes made from mountain mutton and local pork.

18:00 Cappuccino Coffee Yen Minh

We walked to Cappuccino Coffee Yen Minh to enjoy smoothies made from local fruits. The cafe is built of wood and decorated with many lights, giving a cozy feeling.

21:00 Homestay

Sitting by the window looking out, we were still overwhelmed by the magnificent towers of the forest appearing in front of our eyes. It was a great day for us!

Day 2: Yen Minh to Lung Cu to Dong Van – 85km

Dong Van Stone Plateau

6:00 Homestay

Because it wasn't quite dawn yet, we had breakfast in the homestay. I had a bowl of pho while my friends ate banh mi and noodles.

7:00 4C National Highway

We went to a nearby gas station to fill our gas tank. Continuing driving along Highway 4C, our destination is Chin Khoanh slope.

8:00 Chin Khoanh slope

It isn't easy to drive on the Chin Khoanh slope. After crossing the Chin Khoanh slope, we arrived at the film studio of "Story of Pao," - a famous attraction.

It simulates a typical H'Mong town with traditional wooden houses and daily living items. Although no people lived here, we met many children wearing H'Mong costumes and vendors.

9:00 Dong Van Stone Plateau

We arrived at Dong Van Stone Plateau. In 2010, the Dong Van Karst Plateau was recognized by UNESCO as a Global Geopark.

So, it would help if you stopped here to see one of nature's unique masterpieces. After being satisfied with taking pictures, we drove nearly 3 km more to get to H'Mong King Palace.

9:40 H'Mong King Palace

It is an ancient building built in the late 19th century with a unique architectural combination of Chinese-H'Mong-French cultures. The owner of the building was the "leader" of the H'Mong people during the French colonial period.

Thanks to its ancient beauty, this palace has attracted many tourists yearly. Not only famous for its architecture, this structure also draws tourist's curiosity to the mysterious stories surrounding its owner.

Then, we left the palace and went to Sa Phin market to have lunch and buy fruit and some local products.

11:00 National Flagpole road

We followed the National Flagpole road from Sa Phin market to Lung Cu flag tower. Because the journey was quite far, nearly 30 km, we drove continuously and didn't stop at any spot.

12:30 Lung Cu flag tower

A parking lot is at the foot of the Lung Cu flag tower. Leave your motorbike there and buy tickets. If you don't want to climb the 839 steps, buy a tramcar ticket. We saw the majestic mountains at the top of the North Pole of Vietnam.

The total time to take the stairs and visit the tower was about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

14:00 182B road

We returned to Lung Cu Street to turn onto 182B road. Because there are some bad roads, it takes more than 1 hour to get to Dong Van town center.

15:00 Dong Van town

We rented two rooms at a motel near Dong Van old town. It was quite cool that afternoon, so we walked around.

After watching the sunset from a limestone massif near town, we returned to the old town. In the evening, this place is bustling with tourists and colorful eateries.

We went to a crowded restaurant and the horse hot pot was amazing. After dinner, we continued visiting some shops in the old town and bought a few small souvenirs before bed.

Day 3: Dong Van to Meo Vac to Bao Lam – 100,2km

Nho Que river

6:00 Dong Van town

Having a big breakfast is a must-do to kick off the next journey. As usual, we filled up the gas tank before setting off.

On the way from Dong Van to Meo Vac, we left 4C National Highway to turn onto side road 193A. It's a fun journey that offers a closer look at the poetic Nho Que River.

8:30 Tu San Alley

There is an activity you must try once in your life when coming there: kayaking along the Nho Que River and watching the Tu San Alley.

We parked our motorbikes at the boat station located under the Trang Huong Bridge. After purchasing the tickets, we followed the tour guide's instructions and had a romantic cruise on a clear morning.

11:00 193A Road

We headed back to Route 193A after finishing our river cruise. Continue on Highway 4C to Meo Vac town.

11:30 Meo Vac Center Market

Once you come to Meo Vac, you must enjoy this ancient town, which offers various options for lunch. After lunch, we recommend you visit Lo Lo village, home to one of the oldest ethnic groups in Vietnam.

13:30 4C National Highway

Our next destination was Bao Lam district in Cao Bang province, bordering Ha Giang. Because the distance is nearly 70 km, we left Lo Lo village to depart early.

There weren't any interesting destinations along the way, so we drove continuously. Occasionally, stop to drink water and rest, but not too long.

We rushed to Bao Lam before sunset because the surrounding area was deserted and lacked services. After exiting the 4C highway, we went onto Highway No.34 and headed to Bao Lam bus station.

16:10 Bao Lam bus station

We quickly found a small motel near the bus station. Because Bao Lam is not a famous tourist destination, few nice motels exist.

Anyway, we found two rooms that were quite clean. There aren't many restaurants here, so we had chicken rice at a restaurant near the bus station.

19:00 Motel

We went back to the motel right after dinner. We spent the whole evening lying on the bed, discussing the Nho Que River.

Day 4: Bao Lam to Ha-Giang – 82,2km

Ha Giang Milestone No.0

6:00 Bao Lam Bus Station

We had breakfast at a restaurant near Bao Lam bus station. After breakfast, we filled our gas tank at a nearby gas station.

After that, we bought fruit at the central market and some cakes and bottled water at a small grocery store nearby. Those things are snacks along the way.

7:30 Highway No.34

We returned to National Highway No.34, the main road connecting Cao Bang and Ha Giang. After looking at the map, we learned that there were no tourist attractions along the way. Therefore, we decided to focus on driving.

However, because we still had a lot of time, we went slower than usual. It was a beautiful day; we wanted to see the forest and mountains more.

8:35 People's Committee of Bac Me

After more than 1 hour, we passed through the territory of Ha Giang province. We stopped in front of the People's Committee of Bac Me district to have a snack of sweet bread and bottled water.

9:05 Highway No.34

After resting for 30 minutes, we continued driving straight on Highway 34. Driving more than 50 km, we arrived at Ha Giang milestones No.0.

11:00 Ha Giang milestones No.0

We took a photo at this iconic milestone to commemorate the end of the Ha Giang loop. This trip left us with many emotions, from anxiety and excitement to happiness and pride. Hopefully, you will also have such wonderful memories.

Ha Giang Loop Vs Sapa

Ha Giang loop

Sapa

Location

The Ha Giang loop is in the highlands, near Vietnam's North Point. The loop starts from Ha Giang to Cao Bang and ends in Ha Giang.

Sa Pa is a charming village in northwest Vietnam on the Hoang Lien Son mountain range.

Topographical Features

Ha Giang has complicated topographical features and numerous steep rocky mountains, valleys, and rivers.

Sa Pa' has characteristics of the Northern mountainous area, with a steep slope that ranges on average from 35 to 400 or over 450. The landscape tilts and gradually descends from the west-southwest to the northeast.

Climate

The climate of Ha Giang is characterized by a tropical monsoon climate mixed with a subtropical highland climate. There are lengthy, cold winters from December to January. In July and August, it's warm and wet.

Sa Pa has an average temperature of 15–18 °C. The climate is a moderate subtropical climate with all-year-round humid and chilly air.

The best time to visit

October to March

October to March

Driving time from Hanoi

7 hours

5 hours

Pros

  • Pristine and majestic nature

  • Full of adventure

  • Not crowded

  • Famous for the proud roof of Indochina

  • Good road conditions, convenient traffic

  • Modern services and diverse entertainment activities

Cons

  • Inconvenient traffic

  • Lack of entertainment activities

  • Crowded with tourists

  • Lots of annoying touts

Ha Giang Loop Or Hai Van Pass

Ha Giang loop

Hai Van pass

Location

Ha Giang is a province in northern Vietnam's mountains, around 320 km from Hanoi.

Hai Van Pass separates Thua Thien Hue and Da Nang. It is 20 kilometers from Da Nang and 80 kilometers from Hue.

Topographical Features

The topography in Ha Giang is highly complicated, with large, high mountain ranges with steep slopes.

Hai Van Pass is the last summit of the Truong Son mountain range that extends into the sea. Hai Van Pass is risky, with mountains on one side and the sea on the other.

Climate

The climate of Ha Giang is characterized by a tropical monsoon climate mixed with a subtropical highland climate. There are lengthy, cold winters from December to January. In July and August, it's warm and wet.

Hai Van Pass is chilly and has a lot of rain almost yearly. The peak of Hai Van Pass was shrouded in clouds as the cold air waves arrived.

The best time to visit

  • March to August: It's mildly sunny with little rain and fog.

  • October to April: The best time for cloud hunting.

  • October to March: It's not too hot, and there's little rain

Driving time from Hanoi

7 hours

5 hours

Pros

  • Pristine and majestic nature

  • Full of adventure

  • The captivating beauty of nature

  • Good road conditions, convenient traffic

Cons

  • Inconvenient traffic

  • Lack of tourist attractions

FAQs

Where To Rent A Bike In Ha-Giang?

  • MOTOGO

  • Jasmine Hostel

  • QT Motorbikes and Tours

  • Giang Son store

  • Hang Thuong store

  • Hong Hao store

  • Phuot House Motorbikes & Tours

How To Drive The Conditions Of The Ha Giang Loop?

The Ha Giang loop's hardest part is passing by the Bac Sum and Chin Khoanh slopes.

Where Can I Book A Ha Giang Tour?

  • Book a tour on the website of a reputable travel company.

  • You can find Ha Giang loop tour service at many travel companies in Ha Giang city center.

  • Talk to the receptionist at your hotel to get introduced to the tour operator.

Final Thoughts

The Ha Giang Loop is a breathtaking motorcycling route in northern Vietnam. However, it is not for beginners. The loop has perilous roads and unpaved areas. You'll need to drive along cliff edges and encounter lots of obstacles.

Beginners will need an easy rider and a local guide. Travel insurance is necessary in case of emergencies and accidents.

It's crucial to update the weather forecast and road conditions before departing. You'll stop often along the way, so we advise not driving at night.

I hope you found this post to be helpful for your plan. Please comment below if you have any questions or reviews about Ha Giang Loop or other Vietnam tours.

Have a nice trip!

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