Ha Giang Loop
A mountain loop in Ha Giang, Vietnam's northernmost province, passing Heaven's Gate at Quản Bạ, the Dong Van karst plateau, Ma Pi Leng Pass and Meo Vac. It is famous for motorbike riding.
The Ha Giang Loop is the most popular road trip among backpackers in Vietnam. It starts and ends in Ha Giang city and loops around the Dong Van Karst Plateau UNESCO Global Geopark in Vietnam's far north. The route covers about 350 km and mostly follows the 4C national road, known as the Happiness Road. From the zero-kilometre marker in Ha Giang city, the road climbs through a series of bends over the North Pass, reaching Heaven's Gate at Quản Bạ, which overlooks the twin peaks of the Fairy Mountain. Past pine forests and the Tam Mã and Nine-Bend passes in An Minh, the road enters the Dong Van plateau, home to the Hmong people. Visitors can tour the Hmong King's Palace and the Long Cam Cultural Village, then continue north to the Lũng Cú Flag Tower, the northernmost point of Vietnam. After spending the night in Dong Van Old Quarter, cross Ma Pi Leng Pass, known as the first of Vietnam's four great passes, to overlook the Nho Quế River gorge. A boat trip on the Tu San Canyon is also possible. The route then heads south through the Meo Vac market and returns to Ha Giang city via Du Gia village. The loop typically takes 3 to 4 days. Visitors can ride their own motorbike (a valid licence is required) or hire a local 'easy rider' driver to take them. Car charters are also possible. Mountain roads are steep, with many sharp bends and heavy trucks. Landslides are common in the rainy season, and riding at night should be avoided. Foreign visitors should check whether their international driving permit is valid in Vietnam. Always wear a helmet and buy insurance for motorbikes.