8 days
From US $1,795
Classic Ha Giang Loop by Gravel Bike
Join us for an unforgettable cycling journey through the enchanting landscapes of Ha Giang, a hidden gem nestled in the country's northernmost reaches. This cycling tour offers an immersive experience into the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture of Ha Giang. Pedal along winding roads that snake through majestic limestone karsts, verdant rice terraces, and quaint ethnic minority villages. Encounter the warm hospitality of the local communities, where we can sample traditional cuisine and learn about their rich heritage. Marvel at the panoramic vistas of the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore ancient Hmong and Dao villages dotted along the route. As we traverse this rugged terrain, be prepared for challenging climbs and exhilarating descents that reward us with unforgettable memories of Ha Giang's natural beauty and cultural diversity.
Hanoi | 13:00hrs
Hanoi
casual hotels
challenging
60km / 37mi
5
Hanoi
Hanoi
Highlights
UNESCO-listed Dong Van Karst Plateau
Traverse the mesmerizing Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and soak in the panoramic vistas of towering limestone formations.
Itinerary
Brief Itinerary
Meals are indicated as B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner.
Listed hotels are subject to availability and may be replaced with similar alternatives of equal standard.
| Day | Place | casual Inns | Meals | Distance | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAY 1 | Hanoi | Silk Path Boutique Hotel | D | ||
| DAY 2 | Ha Giang | Phoenix Hotel | B,L,D | 40km / 24mi | cycling |
| DAY 3 | Yen Minh | Phuong Dong | B,L,D | 100km / 62mi | cycling |
| DAY 4 | Meo Vac | Hoa Cuong | B,L,D | 60km / 37mi | cycling |
| DAY 5 | Bao Lac | Duc Tai Hotel | B,L,D | 80km / 48mi | cycling |
| DAY 6 | Ba Be Lake | Ba Be Jungle Houses | B,L,D | 100km / 62mi | cycling |
| DAY 7 | Hanoi | O'Gallery Premier | B,L | ||
| DAY 8 | Departure | B |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Hanoi
Our guide meets you at your hotel at 13:00hrs for a bike fit.
Post that, walk the busy streets of Hanoi visiting some of the cultural and historical highlights of Hanoi. Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda, which was constructed nearly a millennium ago, and is delicately elevated in a pond. Also visit the Temple of Literature, dating back close to a thousand years, is a wonderfully preserved piece of ancient Vietnamese architecture and stands to honor the scholarly achievements of the country’s academics and philosophers. Continue exploring the area around Hoan Kiem (Sword) Lake, the old quarter including Ngoc Son Temple, which sits perched on a little island in the lake. In the evening, we convene over dinner.
Day 2: Ha Giang
We start early this morning at 7:30 AM, venturing on a scenic journey of approximately 2.5 hours. The drive takes us through charming villages and breathtaking farmlands, leading to Vinh Kien commune. After a delightful lunch break, we continue our bike adventure on smooth tarmac roads, enjoying picturesque vistas en route to Tuyen Quang. From there, we transition onto National Road No. 2, heading toward Vi Xuyen Town. The day concludes with a transfer to Ha Giang, wrapping up a day filled with incredible sights and experiences.
Day 3: Yen Minh
Today, our journey takes us towards the northeast of Ha Giang province, an area that remains largely undiscovered, with many roads retaining their untouched allure and scenery reminiscent of a bygone era. We navigate through mountains, tackling gradients as steep as 20%, before arriving at the enchanting valley of Lung Tam Commune. Isolated and virtually untouched by tourism, this area resembles an oasis, preserving its natural beauty with minimal human impact. Afterward, we set out on a less challenging ride along paved roads, where we reunite with our bus and transfer to Yen Minh for an overnight stay.
Day 4: Meo Vac
Today's ride takes us along the well-paved Highway 4, offering breathtaking views with ascents and descents not exceeding 10%. Along the way, we make a stop at the House of Vuong Chi Sinh, revered as the "King" by the H'mong people, where his family still resides. The house exemplifies the traditional housing style of the White H'mong people, known for their immaculate dwellings surrounded by intricately crafted rock fences. Continuing our journey, we traverse the "Heaven Gate" pass to reach Dong Van town, home to a central market housed in a nearly century-old building showcasing Vietnamese architecture from the early 20th century. After lunch, we explore the Old Quarter of Dong Van, featuring streets dating back a century, before continuing to Meo Vac. The final leg of our cycling adventure covers the challenging Ma Pi Leng pass, renowned as one of Vietnam's most treacherous roads. Along this route, be treated to awe-inspiring mountain cliffs and panoramic views of the Nho Que River winding through the chasm below. We conclude our day with an overnight stay in Meo Vac.
Day 5: Bao Lac
Today’s ride is long but relatively easy, as we mostly cycle downhill with minimal climbs. The journey takes us through picturesque rural landscapes, passing terraced fields and quaint settlements while immersing you in the vibrant culture of the H'mong and Tay communities.
We begin in Meo Vac with a 5 km climb, followed by a well-deserved rest stop. From there, enjoy a thrilling 20 km descent, transitioning into a flat 10 km stretch. The stunning limestone formations along the route create a surreal panorama of jagged peaks, lush valleys, towering spires, and mysterious caves. After a gentle 250-meter climb, we descend for 30 km along flat terrain, arriving in the peaceful town of Bao Lac. Nestled among the mountains, Bao Lac offers a serene retreat, the perfect end to a rewarding day of cycling.
Day 6: Ba Be Lake
Today’s ride offers a blend of rural countryside and mountainous terrain, with a mix of gentle climbs and exciting descents. You’ll pedal past lush forests, rolling hills, and vibrant rice paddies, making occasional stops to visit small ethnic minority villages and experience their unique culture.
After an invigorating day of cycling, we’ll take a shuttle to Ba Be Lake, where the scenery transforms into a serene paradise of calm waters, dramatic limestone peaks, and lush forests.
Day 7: Hanoi
In the morning, we’ll set off on a scenic boat trip across the pristine, crystal-clear waters of Ba Be Lake. As the largest natural lake in the mountainous Indochina region, it is surrounded by majestic peaks cloaked in lush, green forests. Along the way, we’ll pause to explore the mesmerizing Puong Grotto, a natural limestone cave teeming with beauty and mystery.
After the boat excursion, we take a shuttle back to Hanoi, soaking in the stunning landscapes and reflecting on the unforgettable cycling adventure.
Day 8: Departure
Please make arrangements as per your onward travel plans.
Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.
Map
Dates and Prices
Single Supplement
From US $275
E-Bike Upgrade
From US $100
Couldn't find a trip with convenient dates?
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Essential Info
Inclusions
LODGING
All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).
trip leader
Expert Trip Leader(s) who look after your every need and add meaning to your vacation.
bike
Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.
shuttle
A Van support follows the group of riders and carries all belongings.
meals
Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.
refreshments
Refreshments and mineral water while cycling.
entrance
Entrance fees to most of the monuments and temples.
Exclusions
Airport pickup and drop
We recommend to book direclty from airport or hotel.
Beverages
Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.
Gratuity
Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.
Bikes
When you have a road and the thrill of a journey ahead of you, it’s imperative to have a good bike to enjoy it. Our fleet majorly consist of the below bikes as a part of this tour. However, sometimes due to height or availability constraints, we may provide a different but similar quality bike.
Giant Anyroad or similar
Included in your trip price
Burchda or similar
Available at a surcharge
Arrival & Departure Details
Hanoi (Noi Bai International Airport - HAN)
Here's how you can safely book a taxi from the Hanoi international airport to your hotel at the beginning of your tour.
Booking Location: Taxi ranks are located on the Arrivals level at both terminals:
Terminal 1 (Domestic): Arrivals, first level, East wing.
Terminal 2 (International): Arrivals, first level, Hall C and E.
Reliable Operators: Mai Linh Taxi, Vinasun or Xanh SM are known for its reliability.
Estimated Fare: The fare from Noi Bai Airport to Hanoi Old Quarter ranges from 250,000 to 500,000 VND (approximately 12 to 22 USD).
Tips
Always confirm the fare with the driver before starting the journey. Check the logo carefully to avoid fake scams. For added convenience, consider pre-booking a private transfer service with the hotel.
Weather
Like most tropical regions, Vietnam has hot summers, mild pleasant winters, and an extremely wet rainy season. Being located in the northern hemisphere, the best season for cycling in Vietnam is generally from September to May, with regional variations as described below:
Northern Mountains – Sapa, Ha Giang: The cycling season in the northwestern mountains of Vietnam runs from September to June. December and January are cold with light showers, and travelers need to prepare accordingly. July and August are a no-go in this region as the floods season in Sapa often coincides with the rainy season of the North. The peak is in July and August, and the rains appear with storms causing floods.
North Vietnam – Hanoi and Halong Bay: The cycling tour season in this region runs from October to May. December and January can be cold with occasional rainfall. May to October is hot, with heavy rain in the months of August and September.
What to Pack
Packing smart is essential for a safe and enjoyable cycling adventure. From essential biking gear to clothing and travel necessities, this guide ensures you're prepared for any terrain or climate.
Recommended Bicycling Clothes & Gear
- Bicycling shoes or stiff-soled sneakers.
- Padded cycling shorts.
- Short-fingered cycling gloves (personal gloves are ideal).
- Brightly colored cycling jerseys or synthetic T-shirts for visibility.
- Synthetic cycling socks.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Personal helmet (recommended even though provided).
- Personal saddle (optional for added comfort).
- Rain jacket or windbreaker.
- Cycling water bottle (to reduce plastic waste).
Note: Helmets, gloves, and water bottles are personal items, so bringing your own is recommended for maximum comfort and hygiene.
Clothing
- Light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
- Full-sleeved clothing for sun protection.
- Warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings (if traveling in winter).
- Comfortable footwear for non-cycling time.
- Bring a compact rain jacket in case of sudden weather changes.
- Ethnic or modest clothing for exploring towns and temples.
Other Necessities
- Toiletries: Basic hygiene essentials, including insect/mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
- Plug socket adaptor.
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting or desert landscapes.
Pro Tips
- Pack light but plan for the varying temperatures: warm days, chilly evenings, and desert winds.
- Use brightly colored clothing for visibility on roads.
- Pack light to leave room for shopping.
Luggage
Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag. Mark your luggage with your name, address, and phone number.
Visa Information
Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:
- UK Residents: Stay informed by reviewing the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice.
- US Residents: Access vital travel tips and updates through the US Department of State Travel Advice.
- Australian Residents: Plan ahead with the latest updates on the Smart Traveller website.
- Canadian Residents: Find comprehensive travel and visa guidance on the Government of Canada's Travel Advice and Advisories.
- New Zealand Residents: Get practical travel advice on the New Zealand SafeTravel website
- Residents of Other Countries: Check with your government or local consulate for tailored travel advice and requirements.
Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Stay proactive by checking for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Insurance
Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.
We recommend to purchase adequate travel insurance in order to participate in our tours and protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance—including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses (including Covid-19), and personal liability—travel with greater peace of mind.
Can I use my credit card insurance?
Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Ensure you have an emergency contact number and policy number available.
When should I buy travel insurance?
Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.
Is proof of travel insurance required?
Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact via our reservation form. This is mandatory. If you cannot provide proof, you’ll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.
Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?
We do not sell travel insurance directly, as we believe our customers should have the freedom to choose a policy that best suits their needs. However, we recommend Insured Nomads as a great starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions
The fitness level required for each trip is indicated by the "level" of the tour, which in turn is mentioned on each tour page right next to the price and the trip duration.
Easy: The terrain is mostly flat with a few gentle climbs.
Moderate: The terrain is either mostly flat or consists of rolling hills with a few challenging climbs. There could also be a few days with longer riding distances of up to 75 kms (45 miles)
Difficult: The terrain is mostly hilly with strong elevation gains and/or has long days on the bike. Such trips are recommended for intermediate to advanced cyclists.
Please note that we usually bike around 4-5 hours per day irrespective of the level of the trip.
Yes, your trip leader will carry bottled water or RO water in a camper in the support van for guests' use.
Yes, please communicate your dietary preferences to your trip leader and they'll ensure that the food you eat is spiced as per your requirements.
The road surface is mostly good. 90% of the cycling on this bike tour happens on paved roads.
We've designed this itinerary such that most of the cycling happens on quieter countryside roads far from busy traffic. The shuttle transfers on this tour have been strategically planned to bypass busy vehicular traffic.
We are not medical advisors, and as such are not qualified to dispense medical advice. However, we recommend consulting the resources below for advice on vaccines and medications:
- CDC portal for travelers from the US
- NHS' Fit For Travel portal for travelers from the UK
- Smart Traveller portal or travelers from Australia.
In addition to the above, you may also refer to the travel advice issued from time to time by your government.
While your tour price covers most common expenses, a few meals are not included in the itinerary. This allows you the opportunity to dine independently and explore the local cuisine at your own pace. Your guides will be happy to provide recommendations if desired. As a general guideline, you can budget approximately US $100–200 per person for additional expenditures over the course of the trip.
Tips are not included in your tour price.
As a general rule, you may tip US$ 15-25 per person per day.
This figure is for the entire crew including the trip leader, the driver, and other support staff.
However, you are not obligated to tip, and you can always tip less or more than the above amount depending on the level of service you received on tour.
It is usually the norm to tip the tour guide, who then distributes the amount among the entire crew. However, you can also tip each individual member of the crew if you so desire.
In case you want to tip the staff at a hotel such as porters, you may pay them US $2-3 per day.
The meeting time on Day 1 is mentioned in your travel planner shared with you. You can arrive either on the morning of Day 1 depending on the meeting time, or book a pre-tour night to arrive a day earlier.
Yes, you may wear riding shorts while riding your bike. When not cycling, it would be advisable to wear comfortable full-length pants. We recommend keeping a pair of comfortable pants handy in you support van.
When visiting temples and monuments, visitors should wear full-length, loose-fitting pants. Holy places of certain religions may also require covering your head. Your guide will inform of the dress etiquette required for visiting specific religious places.
You can exchange currency at the airport itself, or at ATMs in larger cities. Most commercial establishments will accept international credit cards for payments, though its good to carry some local currency with you at all times.
For answers to broader questions, please visit our Comprehensive FAQs section.
