Trekking in the remote province of Ha Giang, an adventure off the beaten path
Ha Giang, the mountainous province in northern Vietnam, is the perfect place for trekking and hiking away from the crowds. With its breathtaking karst landscapes, green valleys, and preserved ethnic villages, this remote region near the Chinese border is a hidden natural and cultural gem.
Why trek in Ha Giang?
If you're looking for an exceptional and authentic trekking destination, Ha Giang is the place for you! Forget about the typical tourist circuits, here you will discover unexpected landscapes and unique local communities.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced hiker, Ha Giang has something to offer with its numerous marked trails. From day hikes to multi-day challenging treks, you can explore these untouched mountains at your own pace.
Map of Ha Giang Province - Source : Mr Linh's Adventures
The most beautiful treks not to be missed in Ha Giang province
From Ha Giang to Meo Vac (3 days, 2 nights)
Distance: about 25 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Itinerary:
Day 1: Ha Giang - Meo Vac - Ma Pi Leng - Dong Van
Day 2: Dong Van - Vuong Palace - Yen Minh - Ha Giang City
Day 3: Trekking in Ha Giang
Highlights: Breathtaking views of Ma Pi Leng Pass and traditional Tay villages.
Stunning landscapes along the trail from Ha Giang to Meo Vac - Source : Mr Linh's Adventures
From Dong Van to Yen Minh (4 days, 3 nights)
Distance: about 35 km
Difficulty: Difficult
Highlights: Trekking along the Nho Que River valley, staying in remote Hmong villages, tasting local rice wine, and crossing spectacular karst mountain landscapes.
From Quan Ba to Yen Minh (2 days, 1 night)
Distance: about 20 km
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Panoramic views of Quan Ba Valley, visits to traditional Dao villages, and the opportunity to see the stunning Quan Ba Heaven's Gate.
Trekking in the Dong Van Plateau - Source : Mr Linh's Adventures
You will also like...
- • Ma Pi Leng Trek: This 3-day trek will take you through the most spectacular landscapes of Ha Giang, including the Ma Pi Leng Pass.
- • Nam Dam Trek: This 2-day trek will lead you through the ethnic villages of the Nam Dam region.
- • Lung Cu Trek: This one-day trek will take you to the northernmost point of Vietnam, the Lung Cu Flag Tower.
Ha Giang is an authentic trek destination - Source : Mr Linh's Adventures
When to go? Best periods
The climate in Ha Giang is ideal for trekking from September to April. The best time is during November and December when the weather is dry and mild, perfect for hiking.
Avoid the months from May to August, which correspond to the rainy season. The trails become muddy and slippery, making the hikes dangerous.
How to get to Ha Giang from Hanoi?
Located 300 km north of the capital Hanoi, Ha Giang is a challenging region to access. It takes about 6 to 7 hours by road to reach Ha Giang City by sleeper bus, taxi, or mini-van from the main bus stations in the capital (My Dinh, Giap Bat, etc).
Good to know:
Departure from Hanoi: from 6:30 am to 9:30 pm
Ticket price: between 200,000 and 350,000 VND
+ My Dinh Bus Station: 20 Pham Hung Street, My Dinh 2, Nam Tu Liem, Hanoi
+ Giap Bat Bus Station: Giai Phong Street, Hoang Mai, Hanoi
+ 132 Ngo Gia Kham Bus Station, Ngoc Lam, Long Bien, Hanoi
+ Ha Giang Bus Station: 19/5 Street, Nguyen Trai Ward, Ha Giang City
Alternatively, you can also choose one of the bus companies that offer comfortable limousines with 9 to 16 seats departing from the old quarter of Hanoi and dropping you off in Ha Giang upon request. The ticket price is higher, ranging from 300,000 to 350,000 VND per person.
Give a try to Ha Giang Cuisine ! Source : Mr Linh's Adventures
Accommodation and dining options on-site
Ha Giang City has a modest selection of hotels, hostels, and cozy small restaurants where you can taste
delicious local cuisine.
For a total immersion, choose homestay accommodation in the heart of ethnic minority villages: a unique experience close to traditions!
Feel free to contact us, our team will be happy to help
Northern Vietnam, an exceptional trekking region
To conclude... Ha Giang is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to trekking destinations in northern Vietnam. This mountainous region boasts some of the most breathtaking and unspoilt scenery in Southeast Asia.
Whether you opt for the legendary loops around Sapa, the majestic rice valleys of Bac Ha and Mu Cang Chai, or the extreme border with China dotted with national parks like Ba Be with its caves to explore, you'll be dazzled by the diversity of breathtaking panoramas.
And everywhere you go, you'll come across the local ethnic minorities, witnesses to an ancestral culture of incredible authenticity. Northern Vietnam is a natural and human jewel, an ideal playground for trekking and hiking enthusiasts looking for off-the-beaten-track experiences in Southeast Asia.