Ha Giang

Spectacular views • Driving adventures • Ethnic markets

Journey to the end of the world – at least, that’s what it feels like, when you go deep into Northern Vietnam and embark on the Ha Giang Loop tour. This is truly one of those life-changing experiences that’ll remind you of the force of nature and how we, mere humans, shrink in its presence. The road north from Ha Giang is called the “Road of Happiness” for good reason – and it reminds us that happiness isn’t a destination, but a (very scenic!) journey.

Why visit Ha Giang?

Although the province of Ha Giang holds plenty of activities, most people visit to complete the increasingly popular Ha Giang Loop, which stretches from Ha Giang City right up to Don Vang near the Chinese border.

Including charming stopovers like Du Gia and Meo Vac, with views of mountains, valleys, rivers and waterfalls all around, the whole place is like something out of Avatar.

Watch lines of motorbikes trail around the magnificent mountains here, like tiny ants clinging to its side. Whether you join them as part of a bike tour, or observe from the comfort of a car, the views are equally arresting.

As you buzz around the countryside, you’ll spot local ethnic groups (such as the H’Mong and Tay) clad in colourful, handwoven clothes, carrying their spoils back from the rotating village markets. (If you can, find out what town the next one will be in that weekend, and head there – these rowdy countryside markets aren’t to be missed!)

With a cool climate, clean air, incredibly friendly locals, delicious food and plenty of opportunities for hiking, boating, swimming and exploring, a trip to Ha Giang is the adventure of a lifetime.

Top things to do:

  • The Ha Giang Loop, whatever way you do it, is a must
  • Heaven’s Gate and the Fairy Hills may be busy with people snapping selfies…but woooow, what a view!
  • Dong Van: The cobbled town square, great food and fun market makes this town a surprising delight after your long journey. Stick around for an extra night and check out Vuong Chinh Duc Palace, 14km away in the commune of Sa Phin.

When to visit Ha Giang

As such a mountainous region, Ha Giang weather is typically quite cold – particularly at night. But time your trip right and you can enjoy sunny, clear days that are perfect for enjoying the Ha Giang Loop. Plus, if you need a few warm layers, the city of Ha Giang itself sells plenty of cheap outerwear, including hats and gloves, in the market just outside the centre or in the shops lining the main street.

September and October are great months to see the rice terraces in their full glory: you may get to see the buckwheat flowers blossoming then, too. While April is one of the best months in terms of Ha Giang weather: expect temperatures of around 17–20℃ and blue, clear skies.

If you choose to visit Ha Giang during its off season, you may notice the roads are quite calm and pleasant, and your homestays quieter and more peaceful. Just remember to pack a waterproof coat and trousers, especially if you’re joining a bike tour – again, Ha Giang market will have plenty of goods for you there.

Ready to book your Ha Giang Loop adventure?

A trip to Vietnam isn’t complete without exploring its wild and stunning north: and a trip to Northern Vietnm isn’t complete without checking out the Ha Giang Loop!

At Wide Eyed Tours & Travel, we understand that plotting this kind of journey can be daunting. So our local travel team can help you map out your adventure – with a Ha Giang tour that takes in all the best spots, at the right pace so you don’t miss a thing.

Of course, like all our trips, your Ha Giang Loop tour is 100% customisable. So if you want to skip a place or stay longer in one of your favourites, we can change up your itinerary. If you want to add a boat trip or a cooking class with a local family, we can do that, too.

Our on-the-ground team is geared to make your journey to this area as special and safe as possible: and we’re always just a phone call away.

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Why choose Wide Eyed Tours & Travel?

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Expert Local Knowledge

Ditch the stress, with a trip that’s been crafted by locals. Our team is built of on-the-ground travel experts who can’t wait to share their country’s spoils – from their hometowns, beyond.

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Customisable Experiences

We’ve offered custom-made tours to Southeast Asia for over 20 years, with every ‘type’ of traveller. We know how their tastes and needs change – so our flexible tours can change with them.

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We don’t believe in rigid itineraries. Our customers can set the scene to go at their own pace, and choose the activities that interest them – with the chance to mix things up as they go.

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