Overview
Journey through northern Vietnam highlights: Ha Giang and Cao Bang - where towering peaks, turquoise rivers, and hidden mountain villages reveal a quieter world. Guided by local H’Mong hosts, you’ll trek sky paths, share meals in ancient homes, and discover timeless traditions along the way. From Ma Pi Leng’s cliffside views to Ban Gioc’s roaring waterfall, every day unfolds like a story written in the highlands.
Highlights
🌟 H’Mong Guides & Local Riders – Insider stories and authentic adventures with staff from Ha Giang’s ethnic minority communities.
🏛 H’Mong King’s Palace – Discover local culture and learn traditional dishes.
💖 Ma Pi Leng pass & God’s Eye Mountain – Unique cultural experiences and mystical landscapes.
🌊 Ban Gioc Waterfall – Marvel at Vietnam’s iconic border waterfall with turquoise stream.
Itinerary
Day 0: Ha Noi - Ha Giang city
Board a sleeper bus from pickup point to Ha Giang.
Rest comfortably before gearing up for your Ha Giang Loop adventure!
Day 1: Ha Giang - villages - Dong Van Ancient town (135km) [Meals: B L D]
8:00 AM – Your day begins with a warm welcome from local H’Mong guide before heading into the mountains.
We start the scenic drive with visits to:
- Minh Tan Market (Saturday only): Experience local life at a vibrant highland market.
- Quan Ba Sky Gate: Breathtaking panoramic views of the valley below.
- Twin Mountain: Iconic limestone peaks symbolizing Ha Giang’s natural charm.
After lunch, continue the journey with breathtaking scenery:
- Can Ty Slope: The old “Cu Vuong” horse road once used by the Hmong King.
- Tham Ma Slope: A scenic mountain pass offering stunning views of Ha Giang’s winding roads and valleys.
- Hmong King’s Palace: unique architecture and rich cultural history.
7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner and head to Dong Van Ancient Town for campfire and traditional dancing.
(optional, mostly operate in weekend)
Overnight: ROOM at Dong Van town
Day 2: Ha Giang to Cao Bang - Pe Pia Pass - Pac Bo (210km) [Meals: B L D]
07:00 AM: Enjoy breakfast at the campsite.
08:30 AM: Gear up for a longer ride today as we journey from Ha Giang to Cao Bang, with plenty of scenic stops and unforgettable highlights along the way.
- 14 Floors (Me Pia Pass) – One of Vietnam’s most spectacular mountain roads, famous for its 14 dramatic hairpin bends winding through the mountains of Cao Bang.
- Na Tenh Pass – Stop at a scenic viewpoint to admire the surrounding mountain landscapes.
- Lo Lo & Nung Ethnic Village – Experience the traditional culture and daily life of the local communities.
12:00 AM: Lunch at a local restaurant.
17:30 PM: Arrive at Pac Bo – Truong Ha village. Enjoy some free time to relax before dinner at the homestay
Overnight: ROOM at Pac Bo village
Day 3: Pac Bo - God's eye mountain - Handicraft villages - Khuoi Ky (135km) [Meals: B L D]
8:00 AM: Wake up and have breakfast at your homestay.
Today’s route includes:
- God’s Eye Mountain, a unique karst peak with a giant “eye” hole — perfect for sunset views and photos.
- Explore 3 traditional handicraft villages: Incense Village, Dó Paper Village, and Phuc Sen Knife Village — discover the rich craftsmanship that has been passed down through generations.
12:30 PM: Savor a traditional Nung family lunch and immerse yourself in authentic northern Vietnamese cuisine. Continue with our adventures:
- Visit Nguom Ngao Cave: Explore one of northern Vietnam’s most stunning caves, marveling at majestic stalactites and underground chambers.
(Optional route ~1.5 hours; entrance fee 195,000 VND/person, not included.)
Overnight: ROOM at Khuoi Ky stone village
Day 4: Khuoi Ky - Ban Gioc waterfall - Cao Bang city (135km) [Meals: B L]
8:00 AM: Wake up in Khuoi Ky Stone Village and enjoy breakfast at your homestay.
8:30 AM: ⭐ Highlight of the trip: Ban Gioc waterfall.
Take a short boat trip and witness the magnificent Ban Gioc Waterfall, a hidden gem on Vietnam’s northern frontier and one of the country’s most iconic natural wonders.
Head to Cao Bang city, with stunning stops on the way:
- Travel along the Quay Son River, stopping to admire streams winding through flat valleys — a peaceful contrast to Ha Giang’s mountain passes.
- Ngoc Son – Phong Nam Valley: Enjoy a short, relaxing walk along a village road with sweeping views. End the walk at a beautiful bridge where you can refresh with a swim or jump into the river.
After lunch, take some time to rest, shower, and prepare for departure. Don’t forget to grab some snacks for your journey back to Hanoi.
***End of the tour: Your adventure concludes here.
From Cao Bang, it’s easy to continue exploring Ninh Binh, Ha Long Bay, and other northern Vietnam destinations. Let us know if you need help planning your next adventure!
NOTE: This itinerary is includes highlights and for reference only. As the Ha Giang – Cao Bang Loop is a road-based journey through mountain terrain, travel times depend on driving pace, weather, and road conditions, so flexibility is essential. Adjustments may be made along the way to ensure safety, comfort, and the best possible experience without prior notice.
Includes/Excludes
- Dorm bed or private room in homestays, or 3-star hotels (upgrade available)
- All transportation, including easy rider or self-drive motorbike (110cc with fuel)
- Traditional Vietnamese family meals (B/L/D)
- English-speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Reusable eco raincoat + drinking water
- Tip for guide and drivers
- Personal expenses
- Extra drinks
Frequently Asked Questions
See our Booking form, or contact us directly: info@hagiangexpeditions.com
Easy-rider tours mean you sit on the back of a motorbike driven by an experienced local guide. It’s safe, fun, and perfect for travelers who want the adventure without having to drive.
Ha Giang Expeditions offers certified guides with helmets, insurance, and full safety gear.
Yes! If you can handle mountain driving and have an international license, you’re good to go.
Yes! For families with kids or seniors, we recommend a car or minivan tour — it’s the most comfortable and convenient option. You’ll still enjoy all the same activities and viewpoints.
Yes! Tell us what you like, and we’ll shape the trip around you. Contact us for personalized tour consulting!
📞 (+84) 397679889 (24/7)
🗨️ info@hagiangexpeditions.com



