From Hanoi: 3-Day 4-Night Ha Giang Loop Tour With Easy Rider

Experience the stunning beauty and cultural richness of Northern Vietnam on a 3-day, 4-night Ha Giang Loop tour with easy rider guides. Starting from Hanoi, this journey takes you through some of the most remarkable mountain scenery Vietnam has to offer — think winding passes, terraced rice fields, and ethnic villages that seem frozen in time.

What we particularly like about this tour is how well it balances adventure with cultural insight. The guides are known for their knowledge and friendly approach, making the trip both educational and fun. The scenic drives through places like Can Ty Pass and Ma Pi Leng are undeniably the highlight, offering jaw-dropping views that are worth every hundred-meter climb.

One minor consideration is the long travel days — roughly 8 hours by bus on the start and end of the trip — but if you’re prepared for that, it’s a small price to pay for the scenery and culture you’ll experience. Also, the accommodations lean toward simple homestays and guesthouses, which add authenticity but might not suit travelers expecting luxury.

This tour suits those with a sense of adventure, an interest in local cultures, and a desire to see some of Vietnam’s most iconic landscapes without breaking the bank. It’s especially perfect for travelers who appreciate guided trips with small groups and a focus on genuine experiences.

Key Points:

Stunning landscapes: Winding mountain roads, terraced fields, and panoramic viewpoints.
Authentic cultural experiences: Visits to ethnic villages, local markets, and historical sites.
Expert guides: Knowledgeable, friendly guides who enhance your understanding of the region.
Balanced itinerary: Mix of scenic drives, cultural stops, and some free time.
Value for money: At $242, the tour offers a comprehensive experience, including accommodations, meals, and transport.
Physical readiness: Expect long days on motorbikes and buses, so pack accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Ha Giang Loop Tour

This 3-day, 4-night tour from Hanoi is a captivating journey designed for those eager to explore Vietnam beyond the usual tourist spots. It’s a well-rounded experience that combines stunning landscapes, cultural insights, and adventure, all guided by friendly experts who know the region inside out.

While in Dong Van, here are other experiences we've covered

Day 1: Hanoi to Ha Giang — Winding Road to the Mountains

The adventure starts at night, with a pickup from your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter around 7:30 or 8:00 pm. You’ll then spend roughly 8 hours on a comfortable bus or coach heading north. Though the long ride might sound daunting, it sets the stage for the scenery to come, with the bus traveling through the lush countryside and small villages.

Arriving at Ha Giang around 4 am might seem early, but you’ll have the chance to relax at Hong Hao Hostel before the day’s activities begin. The first day is about traveling through Bc Sum Pass, famous for its terraced rice fields and lush valleys. These terraces are a photographer’s dream and give you a real sense of rural Vietnam’s farming traditions.

The day’s highlight is Quan Ba Heaven Gate, offering sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. We loved the way this spot captures the vastness of the landscape, with clouds often drifting just below the viewing platform, creating an almost surreal experience. Nearby, the Quan Ba Twin Mountains provide a picturesque backdrop, perfect for photos.

Driving through Can Ty Pass is a thrill — a winding, limestone-lined mountain road that feels like a rollercoaster, but with much better scenery. Lunch in Yen Minh Town offers a chance to relax and enjoy local cuisine before continuing to Tham Ma Pass, which treats you to more breathtaking vistas.

In the late afternoon, you visit the Hmong King’s Palace, a cultural site that provides insight into the history of the region’s ethnic minorities. The evening is free to explore Dong Van Old Town, with its traditional architecture and lively atmosphere.

Day 2: The Heart of the Loop — Passes, Rivers, and Ethnic Villages

Wake up with a breakfast at your hotel or homestay, then prepare for what many consider the tour’s pièce de résistance: the Ma Pi Leng Pass. This mountain pass is often called one of the four most beautiful in Vietnam, and for good reason. The sheer cliffs dropping into the Nho Que River below are dizzying, and the views are spectacular. We loved the way the guide pointed out each curve and cliff, making you appreciate the engineering and natural beauty that made this route famous.

Next, you’ll enjoy a boat trip on the Nho Que River, providing a different perspective on the landscape. It’s a peaceful, scenic way to see the mountains and water carved by time, adding a tranquil element to the high-altitude adventure.

After lunch in Meo Vac or nearby villages, you’ll head towards Du Gia Village, passing through Sa Li Pass and stopping at the Lung Ho Viewpoint for more spectacular panoramas. The waterfall at Du Gia is a refreshing break from the mountain drives and makes for a scenic photo stop.

At Du Gia, you’ll stay overnight in a local Tay homestay, experiencing authentic village life and local hospitality. The meals here are simple but flavorful, offering a taste of home-cooked Vietnamese fare.

Day 3: Cultural Gems and Returning to Hanoi

The third day begins with breakfast at your homestay, often with mountain views. If it’s a Saturday, you might visit Du Gia Market, where local ethnic minorities gather to trade textiles, produce, and crafts — a vibrant window into rural life.

The journey continues to Lung Tam Village, famous for its traditional hemp weaving. Watching locals craft intricate textiles is fascinating, and you’ll have a chance to buy some souvenirs directly from the artisans.

After a hearty lunch in Tam Son Town, the journey back to Ha Giang City begins, with the trip wrapping up around 3:30 pm. The journey is a good time to reflect on the previous two days’ worth of stunning scenery and cultural encounters.

More Great Tours Nearby

Returning to Hanoi

The final leg is a comfortable bus ride back to Hanoi, departing around 7:20 pm and arriving early morning. There are options to upgrade to VIP or single-cabin buses if preferred. The drop-off is back at your Hanoi hotel, completing a memorable adventure.

Planning evening activities? Here are other after-dark options we've examined in Dong Van

What Makes This Tour Special?

The guided motorbike experience with easy riders is what we love about this tour. We loved the sense of safety and local knowledge that guides like Nguyen or similar guides bring to the table. The small group size (limited to 10 participants) helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.

The stunning mountain passes like Ma Pi Leng and Can Ty come alive in the early morning or late afternoon light, making each stop an opportunity for memorable photos. The cultural visits, especially to ethnic minority villages and the Hmong King’s Palace, add depth beyond just sightseeing.

The combination of scenic drives and culture provides a well-rounded view of the region, making it ideal for travelers who want both adventure and learning.

Practical Tips for the Trip

Transportation: The long bus rides are a key part of the experience, so bring snacks, water, and entertainment. The motorbike rides are mostly guided, but be prepared for some long stretches.
Accommodation: Expect basic but authentic homestays and guesthouses. While not luxury, they offer a true feel of rural Vietnam.
Meals: Included are 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 2 dinners, mostly local dishes. Keep in mind, alcohol and soft drinks are not included, so bring some cash for extra drinks.
What to Bring: A good camera, comfortable shoes, a hat, water, and weather-appropriate clothes. Remember to carry your passport for entrance tickets and to check in.
Safety: Helmets are mandatory, and the guides prioritize safety, but you should be comfortable riding or sitting on a motorbike for hours.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, and culture seekers who don’t mind a bit of physical activity and long travel days. It’s ideal if you’re looking for authentic experiences rather than luxury accommodations.

Travelers with limited mobility or health issues should consider the physical demands, especially the long bus journeys and winding mountain roads. Also, expect basic amenities at the homestays — it’s part of the charm, but not luxury.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers? Yes, the small group size makes it perfect for solo travelers who want company while exploring Vietnam’s mountains and villages.

What is the price and what does it include? The tour costs $242 per person and includes transport, motorbike rides, guide, meals, accommodation, fuel, entrance tickets, and water.

How long are the travel days? Expect about 8 hours on the bus on the first and last days, with plenty of scenic stops along the way.

Are the accommodations comfortable? They are simple, often traditional homestays or guesthouses, which add to the authentic experience but are not luxury hotels.

What should I bring? Essential items include your passport, comfortable shoes, camera, water, and weather-appropriate clothing. Bring a small backpack for day trips.

Is there any free time during the tour? Yes, evenings in Dong Van and Du Gia often allow for wandering around or relaxing at your accommodation.

Can I do this tour if I’m not an experienced rider? This tour focuses on guided motorbike riding with experienced guides. You should be comfortable with riding or sitting on a motorbike for several hours.

What is the cancellation policy? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility in case your plans change.

Is the tour suitable for children or pregnant women? No, due to the physical demands and riding requirements, it’s not suitable for pregnant women or small children.

Final Thoughts

Traveling through the Ha Giang Loop with a knowledgeable guide and a small group offers an authentic Vietnamese adventure full of memorable scenery and cultural encounters. For those who love mountain landscapes, ethnic markets, and winding mountain passes, this tour delivers on all fronts.

While the basic accommodations and long travel days require a bit of patience, the breathtaking views and genuine cultural exposure make it well worth the effort. It’s especially suited for travelers seeking a deep dive into northern Vietnam’s rugged beauty and traditional life.

If you’re after a mix of adventure, stunning scenery, and cultural depth, this tour strikes a wonderful balance — a true highlight for anyone eager to see Vietnam’s northern mountains.