Travel guide
Visiting Sapa and Ha Giang
Vietnam's far north is mountain country. Sapa is known for rice terraces and trekking between minority villages, and Ha Giang for one of Southeast Asia's great road trips, the Ha Giang Loop.
Best time to go
September to November is clear and dry, and Sapa's terraces are golden around September before the harvest. March to May is also good. Winter can be cold, with the odd frost. Ha Giang is best from October to April.
What to do
- Trek through the terraces to Lao Chai and Ta Van, with a homestay night.
- Ride the cable car up Fansipan, Vietnam's highest mountain.
- Ride the Ha Giang Loop over the Ma Pi Leng Pass.
- Take a boat through the Nho Que River gorge.
Safety on the Ha Giang Loop
On our trips you ride as a passenger behind an experienced local driver (an easy rider). Helmets are provided, and you need travel insurance that covers motorbike passengers. Riding yourself requires a valid Vietnamese licence.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Sapa?
By bus or limousine van from Hanoi, about 5 to 6 hours on the expressway, or on the overnight train to Lao Cai.
Is the Ha Giang Loop safe?
The roads are steep and winding. Going with an experienced local driver is much safer than riding yourself, especially if you haven't ridden in mountains before.