The Ha Giang Loop is the best-known motorbike route in northern Vietnam and one of the most spectacular road trips in Southeast Asia. It winds through the far north of the country, close to the Chinese border, over high passes and along cliffs above deep gorges, through the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark and villages of the Hmong and other hill peoples. The trip we link is a two-day, one-night version led by an easy rider, meaning a local driver takes the handlebars while you ride behind, so no licence-handling or mountain riding skill is needed on your part. On day one the route runs from Ha Giang through Tam Son and Quan Ba to Yen Minh and Dong Van, with stops at Quan Ba Heaven Gate, the Dinh Vua Meo palace and the Dong Van geopark. Day two climbs the Ma Pi Leng Pass, a famous shelf road above the Nho Que River canyon, then returns via Meo Vac to Ha Giang. The trip is rated 4.9 from twenty reviews. It is an adventure trip, long on scenery and short on comfort.
How it works
The tour starts in Ha Giang city, not in Hanoi, so you need to reach the far north first. The operator says that for Hanoi pickup you should contact them to book a bus ticket, so plan the journey before you commit. The price covers the easy rider, the bike and fuel, water, entrance fees, the visitor permit, breakfast and lunch on both days and dinner on the first day, plus one night in a hotel or homestay in Dong Van.
The second night is not included. Drinks, tips and other expenses are extra. Groups are limited to ten, and you can cancel for a full refund up to twenty-four hours before.
What to expect
Long hours on the back of a bike on mountain roads, with stops at viewpoints, a palace and small villages. The riding is guided, but it is physically demanding, with a strong level of fitness advised. It is not suitable for anyone with back problems, heart conditions or pregnancy, and it is not wheelchair accessible. Roads can be wet and slippery in rain, and mist can hide the views, so be ready for variable conditions.
Making the most of it
Late autumn is a lovely time, as the mountains are clear and buckwheat flowers colour the plateau in the cooler months, though nights in the highlands are cold and a warm layer is essential. Bring a waterproof jacket, gloves, a scarf and good shoes, a small day bag and cash for tips and snacks.
Travel insurance that covers motorbike travel is wise. Two days is the minimum for the loop, and most riders say three days is more relaxed, so think about whether this short version fits your timetable before you book.
A word on safety and ethics
Ride with an operator that supplies helmets and checks its drivers, and follow your easy rider’s instructions on corners and in fog. Be respectful when photographing people in villages, ask before taking portraits and buy small items from local sellers if you wish to support the communities you pass through. Remember that the weather in the mountains can change quickly, and that landslides can close sections of the road after heavy rain, so keep your schedule flexible.
What to expect
The experience
A guided two-day motorbike trip riding pillion with a local easy rider, with an overnight in Dong Van and stops at viewpoints, a palace and hill villages.
Best time
Late autumn and the cooler months for clear mountain views, with warm clothes for cold nights.
How long
Two days and one night, starting in Ha Giang city.
Tips
Plan how you will reach Ha Giang from Hanoi, pack warm and waterproof layers and check your travel insurance.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Adventurous travellers who want the famous far-north mountain scenery without riding themselves.
- Families
- Not suited to young children; strong fitness and long hours on a bike are required.
- Couples
- Spectacular for adventurous couples, though comfort is basic and the days are long.
- Pair with
- A relaxed evening of street food in Hanoi after the long journey back.
- Time needed
- Two days plus travel to and from Ha Giang.
Good questions
Do I need to ride the motorbike myself?+
No. This trip includes an easy rider, a local driver who rides while you sit behind. Self-riding is a separate product.
Does the tour start in Hanoi?+
No, it starts around Ha Giang city. The operator asks you to contact them to arrange a bus ticket from Hanoi.
What is included in the Ha Giang Loop trip?+
The easy rider, the bike and fuel, water, entrance fees, the visitor permit, the listed meals and one night in Dong Van. Drinks, tips and the second night are not included.
How fit do I need to be?+
Strong fitness is advised. The trip is not suited to people with back or heart problems, or to pregnant travellers.
Can I cancel the tour?+
You can cancel up to twenty-four hours before the experience for a full refund.
