This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel.
In Vietnam’s northeast lies an incredible landscape of steep hills, twisting roads, and impressive cultural diversity. Ha Giang is the “final frontier” of Vietnam, too close to the country’s border with China to be a popular tourist destination – but a well-loved repeat destination for those who have ventured here before.
The area is enjoyed by Vietnamese tourists, so there is a variety of accommodation options for travelers here. Hostels are particularly busy, but there are also hotels, resorts, and even charming bed and breakfasts. Camping is especially popular here, especially during the months of October and November. Hostels and hotels book up quickly during this time as well, so tourists are advised to reserve their accommodations in advance.
The scenery here is the major draw, and there are plenty of outdoor activities for visitors to participate in. Ma Pi Leng Pass offers incredible panoramic views of the entire province, and Quan Ba Heaven Gate showcases some of the spectacular limestone mountains this province is known for. Trekkers and mountain climbers will enjoy Dong Van Plateau, near the Sino-Vietnamese border.
Ha Giang features a variety of peaceful, small towns, filled with local ethnic groups selling their wares at markets. Visitors can sample local cuisine and get to know some of the residents that call Ha Giang home. These villages also showcase the traditional architecture of the area, with wooden columns, mud walls, and yin and yang roofs.
Hmong King Palace and Lung Cu Flag Tower provide visitors with a bit of a history lesson about Ha Giang’s past, and some important information about the area’s current inhabitants. A visit to Ha Giang would also not be complete without a stop at the rice terrace of Hoang Su Phi, a designated National Heritage site.
The town of Ha Giang is a fair distance from Hanoi, so be prepared to spend a few hours on the bus. Most hostels and hotels will help arrange transportation from the airport.
Written by local expertz for Ha Giang
Jakob Lombardi
