There’s something about the open road that calls to the soul, and nowhere is this call more alluring than on the Ha Giang Loop in Vietnam. This mountainous circuit, a ribbon of road that weaves through the northernmost peaks of the country, is a siren song for adventurers and thrill-seekers. I’ve had my fair share of escapades, from the exotic to the extreme, but nothing quite compares to the three days I spent on the Ha Giang Loop. It was an adventure that would redefine my very concept of travel and adventure.
In October of 2022, as part of a three-month Southeast Asia journey, I stumbled upon the Ha Giang Loop. It was a discovery made almost by accident, a gem hidden in plain sight that had eluded my extensive travel blog readings. Ha Giang was not a name that rang with the familiarity of Ha Long or Hanoi, but it was about to become the highlight of my travel experiences. A viral TikTok video was the unlikely guide that led me to this path less traveled, and for that, I am eternally grateful.
The Ha Giang Loop is typically a 3-5 day motorcycle route, but I had set my sights on conquering it in three. The catch? I had never driven a motorbike before. The solution presented itself in the form of ‘Easyriders’ – local guides who offer their expertise and their motorbikes to those who prefer to experience the loop from the passenger seat. But my adventurous spirit and, admittedly, my oversized ego wouldn’t allow me to take the easy route. Despite a recent motorbike mishap in Vientiane that left me with a skinned leg and a missing tooth, I was determined to drive myself.
The night before embarking on the loop, I lay in my cramped bed on the overnight bus to Ha Giang, a bundle of nerves and excitement. I had no travel insurance, a decision that now seemed foolhardy, and my mind was a whirlwind of ‘what ifs.’ But as dawn broke and I signed the waivers and received a crash course in driving a semi-automatic motorbike, my trepidation gave way to a cautious confidence.
Before delving into the journey itself, let me share some insights on booking the Ha Giang Loop. I had stayed at Buffalo Hostel in Hanoi, which partners with Central Backpackers for the tour. In hindsight, I wish I had done more research, as my experience with them was less than ideal. They missed key attractions and left people behind at rest stops. My friends who booked through Jasmine Hostel had a far superior experience, visiting all the iconic spots and even enjoying a boat ride in the Tu San Canyon. If you’re planning ahead, consider booking through Jasmine Hostel or using Viator to secure your spot on a tour that includes all the highlights.
The logistics of the trip are straightforward. Hostels in Hanoi will typically store your larger bags and offer a free night’s stay upon your return. The overnight bus journey is a seven-hour trek, and upon arrival, you’re given a few more hours to rest before starting the loop. The price of the tour generally includes all meals, accommodation, the motorbike, fuel, and transportation. It’s a package deal that’s hard to beat.
Day one of the Ha Giang loop was nothing short of breathtaking. The mountains unfolded before us, each turn revealing vistas more stunning than the last. The roads were a challenge, with sharp switchbacks and steep inclines, but the lessons from my father on how to handle the motorbike proved invaluable. The first lookout point was a testament to the beauty of Vietnam’s northern region, and despite the physical strain of the ride, it was impossible not to feel a sense of awe.
Lunch stops provided not only sustenance but also a chance to relax and take in the scenery. The weather was perfect for riding, with clear skies and a comfortable temperature. I was grateful for my decision to travel in October, as it offered the ideal conditions for the loop.
Our homestay for the night was a charming communal setup that fostered a sense of camaraderie among the riders. The fear of navigating the roads was replaced by the excitement of a waterfall excursion, although the path there proved to be a treacherous one. The kindness of an Easyrider, who offered to take my bike back, was a reminder of the generosity that often accompanies travel.
Dinner at the homestay was an experience in itself. The communal meal was a time for bonding and bracing for the infamous ‘Happy Water,’ a local rice liquor that could easily lead to a hangover if one wasn’t careful. As the night drew to a close, I reflected on the day’s journey, the challenges faced, and the beauty witnessed. The Ha Giang Loop was living up to its reputation as an unforgettable adventure, and I was only one day in.
The second day on the Ha Giang Loop beckoned with the promise of new landscapes and the thrill of the unknown. As the sun peeked over the horizon, casting a golden glow on the mountains, I felt a surge of adrenaline. Today, I would be pushing my limits, navigating roads that twisted like serpents through the lush Vietnamese countryside.
The morning air was crisp, and as I revved the engine of my semi-automatic bike, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride. I had come a long way from the girl who could barely handle a moped in Vientiane. The road ahead was daunting, but I was ready for the challenge. The first stretch was a relatively smooth ride, allowing me to enjoy the scenery without the fear of a mishap. The mountains stood tall, their peaks shrouded in mist, as if they were the guardians of some ancient secret.
As we climbed, roads got riskier. Sharp turns required focus, inclines tested me. Father’s bike advice saved me. Riders bonded, shared stories and tips. Lunch break, hearty food, learned about others. Afternoon challenges, evening at homestay, laughter and songs. Final day closed loop, stunning views. Accomplished Ha Giang Loop, faced fears, changed.
The Ha Giang Loop was more than just a trip; it was a journey of self-discovery. It taught me about resilience, about the kindness of strangers, and about the sheer joy of adventure. It was, without a doubt, the most unforgettable trip of my life.
Related posts:
The Adventure of a Lifetime: 3 days on the Ha Giang Loop — Emma’s Daydream
The ULTIMATE guide to Vietnam’s Ha Giang Loop
Ha Giang Loop, The Ultimate Guide for an Unforgettable Trip
