4 things you need to know about traveling to Hoang Su Phi
Hoang Su Phi is one of the places with the most stunning terraced rice fields in Vietnam. But before you want to venture in this very off the beaten track destinations, there are 4 things you need to know.
1. Not Along the Ha Giang Loop
It’s important to note that Hoang Su Phi is not part of the famed Ha Giang Loop. Situated in Ha Giang province, Hoang Su Phi is actually about a 3-hour drive away from Ha Giang City, the usual starting point for the Loop.
2. No Big Cities & Towns
Hoang Su Phi lacks any big cities or bustling towns. The district capital, Vinh Quang, is a modest town with a population just above 5,000. Due to its small size and relative obscurity, there are no direct buses from Hanoi to Hoang Su Phi.
3. Off the Beaten Track
One of the charms of Hoang Su Phi is its relative isolation; it sees very few tourists, except during the harvest season. Its off-the-beaten-track status is another reason there are no direct bus routes from Hanoi.
4. Very Bad Roads
Expect challenging road conditions when traveling to Hoang Su Phi. The main thoroughfares are not well-maintained, and smaller roads can be extremely narrow and difficult to navigate, especially for larger vehicles.
Public Buses (Not Recommended)
Opting for public transportation is the most budget-friendly choice for traveling from Hanoi to Hoang Su Phi, but it comes with its own set of challenges. First, you would need to take the bus from Hanoi to Ha Giang City but disembark early at the Bac Quang T-junction.
From Bac Quang, you’ll switch to the local bus that heads toward Vinh Quang, the district capital of Hoang Su Phi. This local bus is very cheap and can not be booked online. It will stop frequently for local passengers at every small village or place where passengers want to be dropped off. Be aware that these buses are far from luxurious: the seats are cramped, the buses are usually crowded, and the drivers and fellow passengers won’t speak English. Moreover, since homestays in Hoang Su Phi are not typically located near main roads, you’ll need to figure out last-mile transportation.
Hanoi to Hoang Su Phi by Private Tour
For those seeking convenience and a hassle-free journey, private tours are the best option, albeit a pricier one. These tours provide comprehensive services, including a pick-up from your accommodation in Hanoi and direct transport to your chosen lodging in Hoang Su Phi. Once you arrive, the tour typically includes a variety of activities, such as guided trekking trips to explore the district’s famed terraced rice fields and other natural wonders.
By Motorbike from Hanoi to Hoang Su Phi
Motorbiking from Hanoi to Hoang Su Phi is an option reserved for the adventurous at heart. Be warned, a good portion of the ride involves navigating Vietnam’s bustling highways, which can be congested with various types of vehicles, from cars and buses to heavy trucks.
However, once you reach Hoang Su Phi, the traffic significantly lightens, although the road conditions deteriorate. Due to the challenging nature of these roads, this option is best for experienced motorbike riders.
By Taxi/Private Car
For travelers seeking more freedom but less complexity than the public bus route, a private car or taxi could be the solution. While you can arrange for a car to take you directly from Hanoi to Hoang Su Phi, a more economical approach might be to take a public bus to Bac Quang T-junction and then hire a private car for the remaining journey to Hoang Su Phi. Given the area’s remoteness and limited availability of drivers, it’s advised to coordinate this part of the trip through your accommodation in Hoang Su Phi.
Tips for traveling from Hanoi to Hoang Su Phi
- Be prepared for extremely poor road conditions. Keep this in mind especially if you’re considering driving yourself.
- If terraced rice fields are your main interest, you might want to look into Sapa as an alternative destination. Although more touristy, Sapa is easier to reach and offers similar scenic beauty.
- Above all, expect an authentically local experience, complete with all the quirks and challenges that come with traveling in a remote area.
For more comprehensive travel advice and tips, consult our complete Hoang Su Phi travel guide, which includes recommendations on accommodations, best spots for terraced rice fields, and more.
