Embark on the Ha Giang Motorbike Loop, an exhilarating route that ranks high on the list of things to do in Ha Giang. Each day brings a new adventure over high mountain passes, through vibrant ethnic minority villages, and past breathtaking scenic vistas, making it a must-do for explorers and culture enthusiasts alike.
Ha Giang motorbike loop
Everything on this list of must-do things in Ha Giang can be combined into one highlight: the Ha Giang Loop. The Ha Giang Loop is a route that takes 3 to 5 days, starting and ending in Ha Giang City. Each day, you visit a new location, and the scenery along the way between your destinations becomes increasingly beautiful.
You will drive over high mountain passes, enjoy the landscape featuring some of the most impressive mountains in Southeast Asia, and explore the unique cultures of the local ethnic minorities. The best way to do the loop is to sit behind a motorbike with an experienced guide. If you want a bit more comfort and protection from the weather, you can also travel around Ha Giang by car.
Stunning roads & mountain passes
As mentioned, the best thing to do in Ha Giang is to explore the impressive mountains. There are dozens of mountain roads and passes worth mentioning, and we could have easily filled the complete list of the top 10 things to do in Ha Giang with them. Instead, we highlight some of the most notable ones.
The Quan Ba Heaven Gate is the first impressive mountain pass you will encounter starting from Ha Giang. From here, you can enjoy stunning views of the Twin Mountains. The next mountain pass is the Tham Ma pass, featuring the iconic S-shaped road. From here, you drive through the Sung La valley and have the option to either head straight to Dong Van or take a detour via Lung Cu, offering some of the best mountain views you could wish for.
The Ma Pi Leng Pass is the king of mountain passes in Vietnam. This road between Dong Van and Meo Vac features some of the steepest cliffs and most impressive views in the region. Continuing from Meo Vac to Du Gia via Mau Due, you can expect many more scenic views surrounded by mountains, making it a top recommendation for what to do in Ha Giang.
Hoang Su Phi
Hoang Su Phi is one of the most attractive destinations in Vietnam. It is not located along the famous loop road, and there are hardly any transportation options to this area. For this reason, most travelers have never heard of it. This is surprising because during the harvest season, you can find some of the most beautiful rice fields in Vietnam here. The highly elevated terraced fields are constructed in the Ha Giang mountain regions. This area is an excellent place for trekking through forests and exploring the villages of local ethnic minorities who have farmed this land for generations. Discovering these cultural and natural landscapes is undoubtedly one of the top things to do in Ha Giang.
Markets of Ha Giang
One of the most wonderful things to do in Ha Giang is to learn about the culture of the local ethnic minorities. In this province, you will even find the highest number of ethnic minorities in Vietnam! As you drive through the landscape, it won’t be hard to spot them because they often wear the most colorful and unique outfits. It is truly impressive to see.
The easiest way to see these colorful ethnic groups is to visit a market in Ha Giang. These mountain markets are usually held weekly, and mountain tribes from all over the area come here to trade and socialize. It’s a unique and vibrant gathering where people trade local goods, food, clothing, and even farm animals. The largest market is the Meo Vac market, which meets every Sunday. Visiting these markets is definitely a highlight of what to do in Ha Giang.
Visit Meo Vac market
The Meo Vac market is one of the most famous markets in Ha Giang. Visiting this market, travelers can immerse themselves in the colorful cultural space of the highland ethnic groups. Located right in the center of Meo Vac town, it is the largest market in Ha Giang province. The market meets only once a week on Sunday mornings. In addition to selling items such as agricultural products and supplies, the Meo Vac market also serves as a hub for cattle trading. To visit the Meo Vac market, visitors should wake up early, around 4 – 5 a.m., as this is when the market starts to gather. Exploring the Meo Vac market is undoubtedly one of the top things to do in Ha Giang.
Visit Lung Cu flagpole
The Lung Cu Flagpole is considered a symbol of Ha Giang, a milestone marking the sovereignty of Northern Vietnam, located about 25 km from Dong Van. To reach the Lung Cu Flagpole, visitors can either walk or take a tram from the parking area. Then, they must climb over 380 stone steps to reach the flagpole area, where a 54m wide national flag is proudly displayed. From this vantage point, visitors can view the surrounding mountains and forests, as well as the beautiful town of Dong Van below. Visiting the Lung Cu Flagpole is certainly one of the most patriotic and scenic things to do in Ha Giang, Vietnam.
Local minority villages
Another fantastic way to immerse yourself in this unique cultural tapestry is by visiting small ethnic villages. Here, you can witness their daily lives, including activities on the mainland and various handicrafts. If you travel with a guide, they can assist you in communicating with the locals.
These villages can be found throughout the province. Various ethnic minorities reside here, such as the Hmong, Dao, Lô Lô, Giáy, and Tày people. Each group has its distinct clothing, culture, and language. You’ll also encounter diverse types of houses in these villages. Some ethnic minorities live in stilt houses, while others reside in stone or earthen homes.
When exploring Ha Giang, visiting these ethnic villages is a must-do activity. Experience the rich cultural diversity and traditional way of life while immersing yourself in the stunning landscapes of northern Vietnam.
Experience Khau Vai market
Khau Vai Market in Meo Vac, Ha Giang, also known as the “Love Market,” is held only once a year on the 27th day of the third lunar month. Visiting the Khau Vai Love Market Festival, tourists can engage in and explore unique and fascinating activities that embody the rich traditional cultural identity of the ethnic minorities in Ha Giang province. Among the must-experience artistic performances are: H’Mong flute playing from Sung Tra village and Meo Vac town; Nung ethnic group’s folk singing; Giay ethnic group’s folk singing; and the drum dances and two-string dances by the Lo Lo ethnic group in Meo Vac town. For those wondering about “things to do in Ha Giang,” experiencing the vibrant festival and savoring the local delicacies of Ha Giang should definitely be on the list.
Read more: The best tourist spot in Vietnam: The marvelous walking route conquering “Ha Giang White Cliffs”
Trekking
Ha Giang is the most famous trekking destination in Vietnam. However, many people don’t know that you can also have an incredible trekking experience in Ha Giang. In the area around Hoang Su Phi, you can walk through terraced rice fields and stay overnight in local homes. If you’re looking to go on a trekking adventure around Ha Giang, Dong Van is the best place. While you won’t find many terraced fields there, the trails that wind through some of Vietnam’s most stunning mountains are not to be missed. For those looking for “things to do in Ha Giang,” trekking offers a refreshing change of pace from spending the day on a motorcycle or in a car.
Lung Cu flag tower
The Lung Cu Flag Tower is the highest flagpole in Vietnam, marking the northernmost point of the country. The tower itself is a beautiful sight to visit, but the journey to Lung Cu makes it one of the top things to do in Ha Giang. You will travel through some of the most stunning mountainous landscapes in Ha Giang and even the country. Remember to stop at several local villages along the way to explore rural life. For travelers wondering “what to do in Ha Giang,” a trip to Lung Cu not only offers a chance to see this symbolic landmark but also provides an immersive experience into the scenic and cultural richness of the region.
Completing the Ha Giang Motorbike Loop is a quintessential experience for anyone seeking to delve into the spectacular diversity of Northern Vietnam’s landscapes and cultures. This adventure, recommended by Lily’s Travel Agency, skillfully combines exhilarating rides, breathtaking views, and rich cultural exchanges, highlighting the best things to do in Ha Giang. Whether you’re navigating the steep curves of the Ma Pi Leng Pass or mingling with locals at the Meo Vac market, the loop offers an unforgettable journey that connects you deeply to the spirit and beauty of this unique region. Explore this and more on your next trip with Lily’s Travel Agency, where unforgettable travel experiences await.
