2-Day Adventure Guide to Ha Giang, Vietnam

Ha Giang, Vietnam

2 days

Winding road at golden hour
Lodgings on the rice terraces
Winding provincial road
Aerial view of the rice fields
One of the entrances to the H'mong King's Palace

About Ha Giang, Vietnam

Discover the untouched beauty of Ha Giang, Vietnam, a hidden gem nestled in the country's northernmost highlands. Renowned for its rugged landscapes, Ha Giang offers an unparalleled journey through terraced rice fields, towering peaks, and winding rivers. Experience the rich cultural tapestry of the region, home to 22 ethnic minorities, each with unique traditions and colorful attire. Visit the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or trek the Ma Pi Leng Pass for breathtaking views. Explore the Quan Ba Twin Mountains and the ancient Vuong Palace. With its captivating scenery, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality, Ha Giang promises an unforgettable adventure for intrepid travelers.

2-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring Quan Ba and Lung Cu

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Quan Ba Twin Mountains, a unique natural formation that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch in a local restaurant. Try the Pho, a popular noodle soup, or the Banh Mi, a Vietnamese sandwich.

Afternoon

Explore the Lung Cu Flag Tower, the northernmost point of Vietnam. The tower offers panoramic views of the beautiful landscapes of Ha Giang.

Dinner

Have dinner in a local restaurant. Try the Thang Co, a traditional dish of the Hmong people, made with horse meat and a variety of herbs.

Evening

Relax in your hotel or take a leisurely stroll around the town, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of the mountains.

Morning

Visit the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, a UNESCO Global Geopark. The park is home to many ancient fossils and offers stunning views of the karst landscapes.

Lunch

Have lunch in a local restaurant in Dong Van. Try the local specialty, Men Men, a dish made from ground maize.

Afternoon

Explore the H'Mong King's Palace, a unique architectural masterpiece that offers insights into the history and culture of the H'Mong people.

Dinner

Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese dinner in a local restaurant. Try the Banh Cuon, a type of rice noodle roll filled with meat.

Evening

End your day with a visit to the Local night market, where you can buy local handicrafts and sample street food.

Attractions in Itinerary (5)

Quan Ba Twin Mountains

1
Quan Ba Twin Mountains

A unique natural formation of two limestone mountains resembling a pair of breasts, offering stunning panoramic views.

Attractions
Landmarks
Lung Cu Flag Tower

2
Lung Cu Flag Tower

A monument marking the northernmost point of Vietnam, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

Monuments
Landmarks
Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark

3
Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark

A UNESCO Global Geopark, featuring stunning karst landscapes and rich biodiversity.

Attractions
Landmarks
Cultural Experiences
Tours
H'Mong King's Palace

4
H'Mong King's Palace

A historic site showcasing the unique architecture and culture of the H'Mong ethnic group.

Attractions
Monuments
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Local night market

5
Local night market

A bustling market that comes alive in the evening, offering a wide variety of local products, food, and a unique cultural experience.

Shopping
Food and Drink
Cultural Experiences

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Thang Co

Thang Co

A traditional dish of the H'Mong people in Ha Giang, made from horse meat, organs and bones, cooked for several hours and seasoned with local spices.

Men Men

A staple food in Ha Giang, made from ground maize, steamed and often served with vegetables or meat.

Com Lam

Com Lam

A type of rice dish cooked in a bamboo tube, giving it a unique flavor. It's a common food in the mountainous regions of Ha Giang.

Ruou Ngo

A local corn wine that is popular in Ha Giang. It's often enjoyed during meals or social gatherings.

Au Tau Porridge

A special porridge made from Au Tau root and rice. It's known for its medicinal properties and is a popular breakfast food in Ha Giang.

Buckwheat Cake

A traditional cake made from buckwheat flour, often served with honey. Buckwheat is a common crop in Ha Giang.

Five-Color Sticky Rice

Five-Color Sticky Rice

A festive dish made from sticky rice dyed with natural colors. It's often served during special occasions in Ha Giang.

Smoked Meat

A traditional dish in Ha Giang where meat is smoked over a wood fire, giving it a unique flavor.

Grilled Moss

A unique dish in Ha Giang where moss from the local rivers is grilled and served with a spicy sauce.

Ruou Can

Ruou Can

A traditional rice wine served in a communal pot and drunk through long bamboo straws. It's a popular drink in social gatherings in Ha Giang.

Plum Wine

A local wine made from the plums that are abundant in Ha Giang. It's a sweet and tangy drink that is enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.

Black-Bone Chicken Soup

A nutritious soup made from black-bone chicken, a local breed in Ha Giang. It's often served with medicinal herbs.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Ha Giang, Vietnam is during the dry season, which is from October to April. During these months, the weather is generally sunny and cool, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as trekking and exploring the stunning landscapes. The most popular times within this period are October and November, when the buckwheat flowers are in full bloom, covering the mountain slopes in a blanket of pink and purple. Another great time is in March and April when the peach and plum flowers blossom, creating a beautiful and colorful scenery.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

International New Year's Day

February 9

Fri

Vietnamese New Year's Eve

February 10

Sat

Vietnamese New Year

February 11

Sun

Tet holiday

February 12

Mon

Tet holiday

February 13

Tue

Tet holiday

February 14

Wed

Tet holiday

April 18

Thu

Hung Kings Festival

April 30

Tue

Liberation Day/Reunification Day

May 1

Wed

International Labor Day

September 2

Mon

Independence Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Motorbiking is the most popular way to explore Ha Giang. You can rent a motorbike and navigate through the province's winding roads and stunning landscapes. It's important to note that the roads can be challenging, so this option is best for experienced riders.

Renting a car is another option, especially for those who prefer a more comfortable and safer mode of transport. You can hire a car with a driver who is familiar with the local roads and attractions.

There are local buses that run from Hanoi to Ha Giang city. From there, you can take another bus or hire a motorbike to explore the rest of the province. Buses are a cost-effective way to travel, but they can be crowded and the journey can be long.

Taxis are available in Ha Giang city and can be used for short trips within the city. However, they are not the most practical option for exploring the wider province due to the cost and availability.

For the more adventurous, cycling is a great way to explore Ha Giang. The province's hilly terrain and stunning landscapes make for a challenging but rewarding cycling experience. You can rent bicycles in Ha Giang city.

Ridesharing services like Grab are not widely available in Ha Giang. However, you may find some local ridesharing options in the city. It's always best to check the availability and prices before planning your journey.

Walking is a great way to explore Ha Giang city and the nearby villages. It allows you to take in the sights at your own pace and interact with the local people. However, due to the large distances between attractions in the wider province, walking is not a practical option for exploring the entire region.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency₫ VND

Time zoneUTC+7

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 05; Fire: 08; Police: 03

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type APower socket type BPower socket type C

Voltage220 V

Things to know about Ha Giang, Vietnam as a first time visitor

1

Ha Giang is located in the far north of Vietnam, bordering China.

2

The official currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). Credit cards are not widely accepted, especially in rural areas, so it's advisable to carry cash.

3

The local language is Vietnamese. English is not widely spoken, especially in rural areas. It would be beneficial to learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases.

4

Ha Giang has a tropical monsoon climate. The dry season is from October to April, and the rainy season is from May to September. The average temperature ranges from 60.8°F to 86°F (16°C to 30°C).

5

Ha Giang is famous for its terraced rice fields, so be prepared for a lot of hiking and outdoor activities.

6

Vietnam requires a visa for most foreign visitors. Make sure to check the visa requirements for your country before your trip.

7

The local food is a must-try. Ha Giang is known for its unique dishes like Thang Co (horse meat stew) and Men Men (steamed cornmeal).

8

The region is mountainous and the roads can be challenging, especially in rainy weather. If you plan to rent a motorbike, make sure you are an experienced rider.

9

Healthcare facilities in Ha Giang are basic. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation.

10

Tap water is not safe to drink. Always drink bottled water.

11

Ha Giang is a safe destination, but like anywhere, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.

12

The region is home to many ethnic minority groups, each with their own unique customs and traditions. Respect for local culture is important.

13

Public transportation is limited. The most common way to get around is by motorbike or private car.

14

Internet access can be limited, especially in rural areas. Consider buying a local SIM card for data.

15

Electricity in Vietnam is 220 Volts. If your device does not accept this voltage, you will need a voltage converter.

16

The best time to visit Ha Giang is from September to November, when the rice fields are in harvest season and the landscape is the most colorful.

17

Remember to dress modestly, especially when visiting local homes or religious sites.

18

Bargaining is common in markets, but not in supermarkets or restaurants.

19

It's advisable to carry some basic medications for common ailments like diarrhea, fever, and cold.

20

Vietnam is 7 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+7). There is no daylight saving time.

Basic Vietnamese to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Xin chào

Sin chow

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Tạm biệt

Tam byet

Leaving or saying goodbye

Thank you

Cảm ơn

Kam uhn

Showing appreciation

Yes

Koh

Agreeing or confirming

No

Không

Khom

Disagreeing or denying

Please

Làm ơn

Lam uhn

Making a polite request

Excuse me

Xin lỗi

Sin loy

Getting attention or apologizing

I don't understand

Tôi không hiểu

Toy khom hee-oo

When you don't understand something

Do you speak English?

Bạn có nói tiếng Anh không?

Ban koh noy teeng Anh khom?

Trying to find someone who speaks English

I need help

Tôi cần giúp đỡ

Toy can zoop doh

When you need assistance

Where is the bathroom?

Nhà vệ sinh ở đâu?

Nha vay sin o dau?

Looking for a bathroom

How much does this cost?

Cái này giá bao nhiêu?

Cai nay gia bao nhieu?

Asking for the price of something

I'm lost

Tôi bị lạc

Toy bee lack

When you're lost

Can I have the menu, please?

Tôi có thể xem thực đơn không?

Toy co te xem thuc don khom?

At a restaurant, asking for the menu

Water

Nước

Nook

Asking for water

Beer

Bia

Bee-ah

Ordering a beer

Delicious

Ngon

Ngawn

Complimenting the food

Taxi

Taxi

Taxi

When you need a taxi

Hotel

Khách sạn

Khaak san

Looking for a hotel

Help!

Cứu!

Koo!

In an emergency

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Swimwear

  • Light jacket or sweater

  • Rain jacket or umbrella

  • Hat or cap

  • Sunglasses

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Sunscreen

  • Insect repellent

  • First-aid kit

  • Prescription medications

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or ID card

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash and coins

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and tour reservations

  • Emergency contacts and addresses

  • Maps and guidebooks

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger and power bank

  • Camera

  • Memory cards

  • Headphones

  • Travel adapter

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Snacks and water bottle

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Books or e-books

  • Travel-size laundry detergent

  • Ziplock bags

  • Tissues or wet wipes

Weather Conditions

Ha Giang, Vietnam is a beautiful destination known for its stunning landscapes and unique cultural experiences. However, the weather can be quite variable, so it's important to plan your trip accordingly. The region experiences a tropical monsoon climate, which means there are two main seasons: the rainy season from May to September, and the dry season from October to April. The average temperature ranges from 60-75°F (15-24°C) throughout the year. If you're planning to visit during the rainy season, be prepared for heavy rainfall, especially in the afternoons and evenings. It's advisable to carry waterproof clothing and shoes. The rain can make the roads slippery, so extra caution is needed if you're planning to drive or ride a motorbike. The dry season, on the other hand, is the best time to visit Ha Giang for outdoor activities like trekking and exploring the beautiful landscapes. The weather is generally cooler and drier, making it more comfortable for sightseeing. However, it can get quite cold in the evenings and early mornings, especially from December to February, with temperatures dropping to around 50°F (10°C). So, don't forget to pack some warm clothing. Regardless of when you visit, always remember to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun. The UV index in Ha Giang can be high, so carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Lastly, keep an eye on the weather forecast during your trip. Weather conditions can change quickly in Ha Giang, and being prepared will ensure you have a safe and enjoyable trip.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

22° / 8°

January is the coldest month in Ha Giang, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 22°C. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy cooler weather.

February

24° / 10°

February sees a slight increase in temperature, ranging from 10°C to 24°C. The weather is still cool and comfortable for sightseeing.

March

28° / 14°

March marks the beginning of spring in Ha Giang, with temperatures ranging from 14°C to 28°C. It's a great time to visit for outdoor activities.

April

32° / 18°

April is warmer with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 32°C. The weather is ideal for exploring the natural beauty of Ha Giang.

May

35° / 21°

May is the start of the hot season in Ha Giang, with temperatures ranging from 21°C to 35°C. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy hot weather.

June

37° / 23°

June is one of the hottest months in Ha Giang, with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 37°C. Make sure to stay hydrated and wear sun protection.

July

38° / 24°

July is the peak of the hot season in Ha Giang, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 38°C. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy hot weather.

August

38° / 24°

August is also a hot month in Ha Giang, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 38°C. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy hot weather.

September

35° / 21°

September marks the beginning of autumn in Ha Giang, with temperatures ranging from 21°C to 35°C. The weather is ideal for outdoor activities.

October

32° / 18°

October sees a decrease in temperature, ranging from 18°C to 32°C. The weather is cool and comfortable for sightseeing.

November

28° / 14°

November is a cool month in Ha Giang, with temperatures ranging from 14°C to 28°C. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy cooler weather.

December

24° / 10°

December is a cool month in Ha Giang, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 24°C. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy cooler weather.

Did you know?

Did you know that Ha Giang is the northernmost province in Vietnam?

1 of 10

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