If there’s one experience I would recommend to anyone traveling through Vietnam, it’s the Ha Giang Loop. This multi-day motorbike journey in the far north, near the Chinese border, winds through dramatic limestone mountains, remote villages, and narrow cliffside roads that overlook endless valleys. It’s wild, authentic, and breathtaking – a trip that feels like a movie scene.
Which tour we chose
After researching different companies, we decided to go with Mama Stay – and it was absolutely the best choice. We booked the 3-day / 2-night (2N3D) tour and chose to ride with easy riders (professional drivers) instead of driving ourselves. It made the entire experience relaxed, safe, and enjoyable.
We were a group of four and selected private rooms instead of dorm accommodation for the nights during the loop. It was a bit more expensive, but having our own space to rest after long days on the bike was totally worth it.
Price – €170 per person for 2N3D
- Includes an additional night before the tour in a dorm
- All meals included
- Experienced drivers + fuel
- Accommodation + activities
- Tips extra (recommended)
- Includes a private room for 4 people.
Logistics: Getting to Ha Giang
We took a night sleeping bus from Hanoi, which picked us up directly from the airport. It dropped us off in Ha Giang around 3:00 AM.
Even though it was the middle of the night, the team welcomed us, showed us to the dorm rooms, and we were able to:
- Take a hot shower
- Get a few hours of sleep in very clean and comfortable dorm beds
- Leave all large luggage safely stored
Around 7:30–8:00 AM, we woke up and were driven to the main Mama Stay homestead for breakfast and the tour briefing. There were around 150 people starting the loop that day, but despite the number, everything was extremely organized. We were assigned to our easy riders and started the ride at around 9:30 AM.
Weather in January
We did the loop in January, which is the cooler season in the north. It wasn’t warm enough for swimming or sunbathing, but the weather was pleasant and comfortable for riding. We were lucky – no rain at all during the entire loop.
The cool mountain air made riding feel fresh and energizing.
The experience
From the moment we got on the bikes, we were stunned by the views. Every corner opened up to something completely new: steep mountain passes, rice terraces, waterfalls, deep canyons, small villages, children waving as we passed.
Unforgettable moments:
- Sunset viewpoints with cold beers
- Riding through clouds and misty valleys
- Warm evenings at homestays with rice wine and music
- Family-style dinners with incredible local food
- Listening to music while riding and just soaking it all in
Tip: Bring earphones that fit under your helmet – music + scenery is a magical combination.
Should you drive yourself or choose an easy rider?
Before the trip, we considered driving ourselves – but after seeing what happened on the road, we’re very glad we didn’t.
Just a few minutes after leaving the starting point, we saw multiple travelers stopped by police.
From what we understood, many were not allowed to continue the loop, even after trying to pay fines. In Vietnam, you must have a real motorbike license (not just an international driving permit) to drive legally.
Without it, you risk:
- Being stopped by police
- Being forced to quit the tour
- Losing money and the experience
Also, the Ha Giang roads are steep, narrow, and busy with trucks and buses.
Choosing easy riders means you can:
- Relax and enjoy the views
- Take photos anytime
- Avoid legal trouble
- Feel much safer
Honestly, I would not recommend driving yourself unless you are licensed and experienced with mountain roads.
Group size
Despite many people joining the same departure day, the experience never felt crowded.
We were split into smaller groups of around 10-15 people, riding separately and meeting during stops and dinners. It was social and fun but not overwhelming.
Packing tips
You leave your big luggage at the starting point, so pack a small backpack for 3 days.
What to bring:
- Clothes for 2 nights / 3 days
- Warm layers (especially in cooler months)
- Earphones / helmet speakers
- Basic toiletries
- Power bank
- Cash (cards are not useful on the loop)
- Swimwear if you come in warmer season
- Towel
Keep it simple – you don’t need much.
Final thoughts
The Ha Giang Loop was truly one of the most extraordinary experiences of my life. It’s not only the landscapes – it’s the feeling of freedom, the culture, the people you meet, and the incredible energy of northern Vietnam.
If you’re traveling through Vietnam and want something real, raw, and unforgettable, put Ha Giang at the very top of your list. I would do it again in a heartbeat.
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