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6 Tips for doing the Ha Giang Loop, Vietnam

Updated: May 13, 2024

The Ha Giang Loop is becoming increasingly popular among people visiting Vietnam and is basically now a mainstay in any Vietnam itinerary.


This is all with good reason. It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience with breathtaking views, the opportunity to meet amazing people and chance to make lifelong memories.


But I am sure, just like me, you've got lots of questions about the Ha Giang Loop so here are my top tips. And if you're short on time you can check out my TikTok for similar tips.



1. Research the different tour operators

There are lots of different companies and hostels that offer the Ha Giang Loop. If you're already in the planning stage you've probably heard of the two major operators: Jasmine and Mamas. I am sure if you choose either of these you'll have a great experience but they've got a bit of a ‘party’ reputation and have huge groups of up to 100 people. If you're looking for this atmosphere then these two are for you!


If you're more like me and looking for something with smaller group sizes and a more personal experience consider looking at some different tour operators. By going with a smaller company, such as Bong or Buffalo Hostel, you're more likely to get this more intimate experience. But don't worry by going with a smaller operator you definitely won't miss out on anything! They go the same routes - potentially with more stops -, you'll still get happy water (rice/corn wine) and karaoke every night, but all with the added bonus of getting to know everyone on your tour.


I went with Bong Hostel and had the best experience I could have wished for! Brilliantly organised with great communication and my tour group was a great size and mix of people. I would 100% recommend choosing Bong Hostel!



2. Decide between self-driving or an easy-rider

When you're looking at doing the tour all operators will give you the option either drive yourself or go with an easy-rider. I personally wouldn't recommend choosing to drive the route yourself unless you're a pretty confident motorbike driver. If you're not confident the roads will be nerve wracking and you might not be able to fully appreciate the views!


By choosing the easy-rider option you'll be able to sit back, relax, enjoy the views and live your best passenger princess life! It also gives you the opportunity to learn so much about Vietnamese culture as you get to talk to someone who lives in Vietnam and rides the loop multiple times a month! They really are expert drivers; my driver admitted to having been illegally driving a bike since he was 13!


If you're on a super tight budget then saving that little bit of cash and driving yourself might be the best call for you! But in my opinion paying that little bit extra, if you can, will grant you a whole load of benefits!



3. Talk to your easy-rider and get to know them

As I mentioned above one of the key benefits of going with an easy-rider is getting to know someone from Vietnam and that knows a lot about the local culture. Building a relationship with your driver will help you to unlock a whole lot of understanding about Vietnamese culture and way of life. Don't be afraid to ask questions because they're more than willing to answer them and try to help you.


But sometimes it can be difficult to chat and build a relationship if there is a language barrier. However, we live in a world now where Google Translate is right at our fingertips. This can help you build that relationship and understanding both when you're on and off the bike! Although watching them drive one-handed on the crazy routes might make your stomach turn but you can definitely trust them!


4. Pack a small rucksack

If you were as clueless as me when turning up to do the Ha Giang Loop you might be wondering where is my huge rucksack or suitcase going to go?


Well, the short answer is it doesn't go anywhere. The hostel will provide you with safe storage for your luggage and on the loop you just need to take a small bag with your essentials. This gets strapped to the back of the motorbike; bonus tip is use this as a little back rest on some of the longer stints on the bike.


I suggest trying to keep what you put in this bag to just the essentials. Here's what I packed:


  • Swimwear

  • Shorts

  • Trousers (it can get cold)

  • Toiletries

  • Couple of t-shirts

  • Fleece or jumper

  • Waterproof coat



5. Choose the 4-day option

When you're booking the Ha Giang Loop you'll likely see loads of different options but the main difference is whether the tour is 3 or 4 days.


I decided to go with the 4 day option and boy was I glad I did! Not only was the third day my favourite but it also meant I had the opportunity to spend more time getting to know people in my group in an even more intimate group size.


By opting for the 4 day option it meant the third day was not just one long drive back to Ha Giang but instead I got to do a boat tour and go swimming at a beautiful (albeit very busy) waterfall in Du Gia! Day 3 was definitely the highlight of my Ha Giang Loop experience!


So, if your budget and timeline permits I 1000% recommend choosing the longer 4 day route.


6. Plan a rest day afterwards

After you've finished the Ha Giang Loop if you're anything like me you'll be exhausted! 4 days of go, go, going with drinking most evenings really does knock it out of you so make sure you plan to rest once you've finished.


I made the mistake of going straight from doing the Ha Giang Loop to a Ha Long Bay cruise and although this didn't completely ruin the cruise experience I think I would have got more from it having had a rest beforehand.


If you've got any other questions drop a comment on here or send me a message on my Instagram or TikTok! You can also find more useful tips, tricks and recommendations on my TikTok and Instagram!


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