Best of the North-East: Ha Giang, Bang Gioc Waterfall & Ba Be Lake

The Best of the North-East

Embark on an exhilarating 5-day adventure through Ha Giang’s stunning landscapes, the majestic Bang Gioc Waterfall, and tranquil Ba Be Lake, accompanied by expert guides for a deeply authentic and adventurous experience.

Itinerary

Day 0: Transfer Hanoi - Ha Giang

Option 1: VIP sleeper bus

Option 2: Limousine day bus & Thon Tha Village experience (+1 Day)

Day 1: Ha Giang City - Dong Van

Conquer Bac Sum and Heaven Gate Passes, with stops for breathtaking mountain vistas.
Visit ethnic minority villages and learn about local lifestyles.
Explore the Hmong King Palace, delving into the area's rich history.
Enjoy the old quarter of Dong Van at your own pace.

Day 2: Dong Van - Meo Vac

If it’s Sunday, start with the colorful and bustling Dong Van market.
Drive to Lung Cu and climb the flag tower for 360-degree views.
Experience one of Vietnam’s most dramatic passes, with optional trekking on the Ma Pi Leng Skywalk.
Optionally: Take a boat through Ma Pi Leng canyon on the Nho Que river.

Day 3: Meo Vac - Cao Bang

Visit Meo Vac’s Sunday market for a vibrant local experience.
Travel through remote villages and stunning landscapes on the way to Cao Bang.
Observe the daily lives of various ethnic minorities along the route.
Settle into this picturesque city, preparing for further adventures.

Day 4: Cao Bang (Ban Gioc Waterfall) - Ba Be Lake

Visit one of Asia’s most beautiful waterfalls, right on the border with China.
Explore Nguom Ngao Cave’s impressive formations.
Enjoy the lush landscapes as you travel from Cao Bang to Ba Be Lake.
Spend the night in a traditional homestay, immersing in local culture.

Day 5: Ba Be Lake - Hanoi

Cruise around Vietnam’s largest natural lake and visit significant sites like caves.
Take in the serene beauty of Ba Be National Park from the water.
Enjoy a delicious lunch before departing.
Conclude your tour with a scenic drive back to the city, reflecting on the journey.

Our Guest

I have just got back from my Ha Giang Loop tour and honestly I can say hands down it’s one of the best things I have ever done. This is coming from someone who was so scared to get on the back of a motorbike but my driver/tour guide Sun was absolutely amazing made me feel comfortable from the start.

Ha Giang loop road tour was everything and more. I was in the extraordinary hands of Nguyen Minh, the most thoughtful and welcoming guide. Minh’s motorbike riding was just perfect, we went at such a lovely pace and his “be careful” skills navigating some of the more trickier parts were exceptional.

We had a fantastic time on our 3 day Ha Giang tour! 1 easy rider and one solo riding and both had a great experience. We had a much smaller group size than most tour groups on the loop which gave a much more personal experience- would recommend!

The tour was really amazing. Our guide was so kind and he took care of all of us. It was a great experience and we wouldn’t have missed it at all!!! Thank you niao (hope i write it correctly) for the unforgetable time!!!

A great experience doing the Ha Giang loop. The views were stunning and both our drivers, Ty and Minh were top! We never felt unsafe while riding the loop, they gave great explanations and always made us laugh. I was sad the tour had to end

Building Future Lodges

We are currently developing three exclusive lodges in Ha Giang City, Dong Van, and Meo Vac to enhance your stay with us. Until these are completed, we offer accommodation in a carefully selected mix of homestays and hotels. This blend ensures you enjoy both the authenticity of Ha Giang and the comfort you expect. Here’s where you might stay:

Dong Van: Dong Van Cliffside House
Meo Vac: Little Yen Homestay
Ban Gioc: Yen Nhi Homestay
Ba Be Lake: Ba Be Lake View Homestay

*Accommodations are subject to availability and may change based on the dates of your booking.

Dong Van Cliffside Little Yen Homestay Yen Nhi Homestay Ba Be Lake View Homestay

Transfers

Option 1

Day Bus + Thon Tha Village

Depart Hanoi in the morning, arrive Ha Giang by afternoon. Enjoy lunch, then visit a traditional Tay village to explore and overnight in a homestay. Your Ha Giang Loop starts the next day.

Option 2

VIP night bus

Travel overnight from Hanoi in a comfortable sleeper bus, arriving early in Ha Giang. Rest upon arrival before beginning your Ha Giang Loop adventure in the morning.

Options & Alternatives

Option 1

Motorbike & Car

Kick off your adventure with an exhilarating two-day Easy Rider motorbike experience in Ha Giang, then switch to a car for the continued journey through Cao Bang and Ba Be Lake. This mixed-mode travel offers the excitement of a motorbike with the comfort and convenience of a car for longer distances.

Option 2

Car only

Traverse the entire route from Ha Giang to Cao Bang and Ba Be Lake by private car. This option ensures comfort and ease, allowing you to experience the rugged beauty and cultural richness of Northern Vietnam in a relaxed and secure setting.

Booking information

Included

Easy Rider or Car driver (English Speaking Guide)
Helmet and extra protection (for motorbike tour)
Motorbike/Car and gas
All accommodation mentioned in the itinerary
All meals mentioned in the itinerary
All transfers mentioned in the itinerary
All entrance fees mentioned in the itinerary

Booking process

Book using the form below or contact us for custom tours. Hotel details can be provided later. Confirmation sent within 1 working day after deposit or full payment.

Terms of tour cancellation

Changes or cancellations are possible with potential extra fees. Please refer to our terms & conditions page for details.

Weather

Wondering what to expect on this tour during the month you plan to visit Ha Giang? Select your travel month to see detailed weather and scenery information, ensuring you are well-prepared and can fully enjoy your adventure, no matter when you decide to go.

Month

January

Average Temperatures: Low of 8°C (46°F), High of 18°C (64°F)
Rainfall: 31 mm
Sun Hours: 3 hours per day

Experience

January offers the least rainfall throughout the year, making it an excellent month for those who prefer drier conditions. Although it can get quite cold, especially at night, the weather provides a unique, mystical atmosphere with more chances of fog and mist, which can create magical vistas but sometimes also limit views.

Additional Notes

Dress warmly as the temperatures can drop significantly. Consider staying in hotels rather than homestays for better warmth. If you're exploring by motorbike, pack warm clothing to stay comfortable.

February

Average Temperatures: Low of 10°C (50°F), High of 19°C (66°F)
Rainfall: 49 mm
Sun Hours: 3 hours per day

Experience

Similar to January, February sees very little rain and retains the cool temperatures. The fog and mist continue to frequent the landscapes, offering a mystical and enchanting experience as you travel through Ha Giang, but can sometimes also limit views.

Additional Notes

It's still quite cold, so wearing warm clothes is advisable. Opting for hotels can provide added warmth. If traveling by motorbike, ensure you're well wrapped up to enjoy the journey comfortably.

March

Average Temperatures: Low of 13°C (55°F), High of 23°C (73°F)
Rainfall: 102 mm
Sun Hours: 3 hours per day

Experience

March marks the end of the cold winter months, with slightly higher temperatures and a little increase in rainfall. However, it remains one of the best times to do the Ha Giang Loop due to its generally mild weather and increasing number of clearer days.

Additional Notes

Layered clothing is recommended as it can be warm during the day but cooler in higher elevations and at night. This transitional month offers a balance of climate that is conducive to exploring the diverse landscapes of Ha Giang.

April

Average Temperatures: Low of 17°C (63°F), High of 26°C (79°F)
Rainfall: 165 mm
Sun Hours: 4 hours per day

Experience

April sees a slight increase in rainfall but still maintains a lot of clear days, making it a great time to visit the Ha Giang Loop. The weather is warmer, marking a pleasant transition from the cooler months. This month offers a balance of mild warmth without the intense heat, making for comfortable travel whether on motorbike or in a car.

Additional Notes

Bring layers of clothing to adjust to variable conditions. The weather can shift between warm days and cooler nights, and the occasional rain can cool things down unexpectedly.

May

Average Temperatures: Low of 20°C (68°F), High of 29°C (84°F)
Rainfall: 221 mm
Sun Hours: 5 hours per day

Experience

The onset of the rainy season begins in May, bringing more frequent showers, yet it is far from the heaviest rain months. Despite the increased rainfall, May often has a lot of clear skies and more sun hours, making it a vibrant time to see the lush, green landscapes of Ha Giang come alive. The warmer weather begins to set in, yet it's not uncomfortably hot, providing pleasant conditions for travel.

Additional Notes

Waterproof gear is advisable for those on motorbike tours to stay dry during sudden showers. The scenery is particularly beautiful with fresh blooms and vibrant greenery enhanced by the rains.

June

Average Temperatures: Low of 22°C (72°F), High of 30°C (86°F)
Rainfall: 268 mm
Sun Hours: 5 hours per day

Experience

June features the highest rainfall with short but heavy showers, yet it remains one of the clearest months in terms of sky visibility. The higher temperatures during the day make it quite warm, but the frequent rains cool the environment, making it lush and vividly green. This is a great time for those who don’t mind a bit of rain to enjoy the peak of Ha Giang’s natural beauty.

Additional Notes

Although it's one of the wettest months, the rain usually comes in brief, intense bursts, so it's still possible to enjoy full days of exploration. Carrying breathable, waterproof clothing will enhance comfort during your adventures.

July

Average Temperatures: Low of 23°C (73°F), High of 30°C (86°F)
Rainfall: 312 mm
Sun Hours: 5 hours per day

Experience

July continues with a similar climate pattern as June, featuring frequent but typically short-lived heavy showers. The temperatures are warm, making for a moist environment that significantly enhances the lushness of the landscapes. The rice fields are growing and vibrant, adding a stunning green backdrop to your adventure.

Additional Notes

Opting for a car tour might be preferable for those who wish to stay dry and enjoy air-conditioned comfort. For motorbike enthusiasts, waterproof gear is essential to enjoy the rides comfortably despite the showers.

August

Average Temperatures: Low of 23°C (73°F), High of 30°C (86°F)
Rainfall: 344 mm
Sun Hours: 5 hours per day

Experience

As the wettest month of the year, August offers a unique challenge and charm for travelers. The heavy rains are usually brief but intense, allowing for clear skies and sun in between. This month showcases the Ha Giang region in full bloom, with the rice fields at their most lush and extensive.

Additional Notes

For those worried about getting wet, a car tour can provide a comfortable and dry vantage point to experience the vivid scenery. However, the rains bring a special vibrancy to the region that is particularly photogenic, so having waterproof equipment for photography is recommended.

September

Average Temperatures: Low of 21°C (70°F), High of 28°C (82°F)
Rainfall: 245 mm
Sun Hours: 4 hours per day

Experience

The rainfall begins to decrease as September progresses, making it an increasingly favorable month to visit. It’s still very warm, and the landscape is dotted with the gold and yellow of ripening rice fields, creating spectacular views ideal for photography and nature lovers. The weather transition brings a refreshing change, with less intense rain and more comfortable temperatures.

Additional Notes

Layers of clothing are advisable as conditions can vary throughout the day; mornings might be cooler and wet, while afternoons can be warm and sunny. It's a transition month that captures the tail end of the rainy season with the promise of drier days ahead.

October

Average Temperatures: Low of 17°C (63°F), High of 25°C (77°F)
Rainfall: 163 mm
Sun Hours: 4 hours per day

Experience

October marks the end of the rainy season, ushering in clearer skies and milder weather. This month offers some of the best conditions for exploring the Ha Giang Loop, with comfortable temperatures and only occasional rainfall. The landscapes begin to shift, displaying the beautiful harvest colors in the rice fields, transitioning from lush green to golden hues.

Additional Notes

Dress in layers to adapt to the variable temperatures throughout the day—warm during sunny afternoons but cooler in the mornings and evenings. This is an ideal time for those seeking to experience the full visual spectacle of Ha Giang without the wetter conditions of the earlier months.

November

Average Temperatures: Low of 13°C (55°F), High of 22°C (72°F)
Rainfall: 77 mm
Sun Hours: 3 hours per day

Experience

As the dry season begins, November offers cooler temperatures and reduced rainfall, making it one of the best times to visit Ha Giang. The clear, crisp days are perfect for motorbike tours and car rides through the mountainous terrain. Visibility is excellent, though mornings can be foggy, adding a mystical feel to the landscapes.

Additional Notes

Prepare for cooler evenings by bringing warm clothes. Opting for hotels over homestays can provide more comfortable night accommodations. The roads are generally dry, making travel conditions ideal for all types of adventurers.

December

Average Temperatures: Low of 9°C (48°F), High of 18°C (64°F)
Rainfall: 35 mm
Sun Hours: 3 hours per day

Experience

December is one of the coldest months in Ha Giang, but with minimal rainfall, it offers a unique winter experience. The cooler weather is perfect for those who enjoy brisk conditions, and the reduced tourist crowds provide a more serene and personal encounter with the region’s natural beauty. The occasional fog and mist can obscure views but also create stunning, ethereal landscapes when they clear.

Additional Notes

It’s crucial to dress warmly, especially if traveling by motorbike. Consider opting for car tours to stay comfortable against the chill. Hotels are generally better insulated than homestays, providing a cozier retreat after a day of exploring.

Preparation

Safety

Safety is paramount on our tours. Our Easy Riders are highly experienced, and we provide top-quality helmets along with arm and leg protection gear.

What to bring

Dress in layers for varying temperatures in the mountains and valleys. Sunglasses are useful against sun and dust, while long sleeves and pants offer sun protection. Read our checklist.

Meals

Enjoy a mix of local and Western cuisine. Contact us in advance for dietary or allergy concerns; we can customize your meals.

Weather

Tours operate year-round. We continue in rain but may adjust the itinerary or switch to a car option in case of severe weather.

Prices

Prices Ha Giang by motorbike & Cao Bang by car

1 person	2 persons	3 persons	4 persons	5 persons	6 persons	7 persons	8 persons
	$1290 ($645 pp)	$1605 ($535 pp)	$2080 ($520 pp)	$2550 ($510 pp)	$2970 ($495 pp)	$3430 ($490 pp)	$3880 ($485 pp)

Prices Ha Giang & Cao Bang by car

1 person	2 persons	3 persons	4 persons	5 persons	6 persons	7 persons	8 persons
$820	$1190 ($595 pp)	$1710 ($570 pp)	$2180 ($545 pp)	$2675 ($535 pp)	$3120 ($520 pp)	$3570 ($510 pp)	$3960 ($495 pp)

Dynamic Pricing: Prices are subject to change based on availability and specific tour requirements.
Currency Conversion: Prices are displayed in United States Dollar (USD) for convenience. Please note that fluctuations in currency exchange rates may affect the final cost slightly.
Customization Costs: Adjustments to standard packages, such as upgrades in accommodation or transportation, may affect the overall price.

Booking & Enquiries

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Start Tour Date(Required)

How many people(Required)

Transfer from Hanoi(Required)

Car or Motorbike + Car(Required)

Additional comments & wishes

Please mention any specific requests such as dietary preferences, route options, accommodation types, or other requirements you may have.

Step 1: Request Your Tour

Specify your preferred dates, the number of participants, and any specific desires you might have, such as types of accommodation (homestays or hotels) and transportation (motorbike or car).

Step 2: Receive Your Custom Offer

We will send you a detailed offer based on your requests. This offer can still be customized to ensure it perfectly meets your needs.

Step 3: Make Payment

All payments are processed through PayPal. No account is required to complete the transaction. PayPal provides buyer protection, safeguarding your purchase from booking to tour completion. Please note that a 3% PayPal fee will be added to cover processing costs.

Step 4: Enjoy Your Tour

Once your booking is confirmed, we take care of all the details. We arrange everything from transfers to and from Hanoi, accommodations, meals, guides, and transportation throughout the tour, unless you request otherwise.

FAQ

What is an Easy Rider?

An Easy Rider is an experienced motorbike rider who acts as your guide throughout the tour. They are not only skilled in navigating the challenging roads but are also knowledgeable about the local areas, culture, and history. Traveling with an Easy Rider offers a unique, personal, and safe way to explore the region’s landscapes and communities.

If I choose the motorbike option, do I drive by myself?

When you choose the motorbike option, you typically ride pillion (as a passenger) with an Easy Rider. This allows you to fully enjoy the scenery without the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads. However, if you prefer to drive by yourself, please let us know in advance so we can make the necessary arrangements, including providing you with a motorbike and ensuring you meet all local driving requirements.

Can I do the entire tour by motorbike (Easy Rider)?

Yes, you can start the tour on a motorbike in Ha Giang for a thrilling experience. However, due to the longer distances and challenging terrain in Cao Bang, we recommend switching to a car for the remainder of the tour to ensure comfort.

How are the accommodations arranged throughout the tour?

You will stay in a combination of hotels and homestays. Hotels provide comfort and modern amenities, while homestays offer a deep dive into local culture and cuisine.

What should I pack for the tour?

Pack light but include layers for varying temperatures, rain gear, comfortable walking shoes, and any personal necessities. Don’t forget your camera for the stunning landscapes and cultural moments!

What types of meals are included in the tour?

The tour includes local Vietnamese cuisine, featuring regional specialties. We cater to dietary restrictions if notified in advance.

Do I need to be in good physical condition for this tour?

While the motorbike portion requires a basic level of fitness, the car segments are less physically demanding. Moderate fitness is enough to enjoy the tour fully.

How long are the daily drives/rides?

Daily travel times vary, with approximately 4-6 hours of driving each day, depending on road conditions and stops along the way.

Can I charge my electronic devices during the tour?

Yes, charging facilities are available in hotels and most homestays, but it’s a good idea to bring additional power banks for long days of exploration.