Roof of Vietnam: Ha Giang and the Far North Adventure Tour - Discover Northern Vietnam’s Hidden Beauty

Embark on an unforgettable adventure through some of Vietnam’s most dramatic landscapes with our Roof of Vietnam: Ha Giang and the Far North Adventure Tour. This 7-day journey takes you deep into the heart of the Ha Giang Loop, a mountainous region that offers a rare glimpse into the pristine beauty and rich cultural heritage of Northern Vietnam. From towering karst mountains to vibrant hilltribes, this tour promises a unique experience for adventure travelers, culture enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike.

Prepare to be captivated as you travel through rugged mountains, breathtaking valleys, and remote villages, immersing yourself in the culture of Vietnam’s hilltribes. On the first day of this Far North Vietnam adventure, leave the urban buzz of Hanoi behind and head toward Ha Giang. Along the way, you’ll pass through scenic roads, winding along the Red River Delta before entering the dramatic mountain ranges of North Vietnam.

As you journey towards Meo Vac, spend two days exploring the ethnic villages of the Tay, H'mong, and Nung people. Take the time to wander through traditional hilltribe hamlets, where you can interact with the locals and learn about their agricultural practices, weaving traditions, and daily life. Enjoy photo stops along the way to capture the stunning landscapes that stretch as far as the eye can see. These encounters are the perfect way to understand the strong relationship between the local communities and the land they call home.

The adventure continues as you drive along the Chinese border to Dong Van, Vietnam’s northernmost point. The scenic drive includes a trip up Heaven’s Pass, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding karst peaks. In Dong Van, explore one of the most diverse stretches of Northern Vietnam, where you’ll discover a blend of cultures. Visit Pho Bang, a village that showcases Chinese influence in its architecture, and the palace of a former H'mong king—an unforgettable cultural experience that gives you insight into the region’s rich history.

A highlight of your trip will be visiting the Dong Van market, where you’ll rub shoulders with local hilltribe vendors who trade handmade textiles, silver jewelry, and mountain goods. This vibrant market is a must-see for anyone looking to understand the local way of life and gain insights into the unique cultures of the H'mong, Tay, and Nung peoples.

On Day 5, enjoy a short trek to a H'mong village located in the scenic Tam Son Valley. Surrounded by breathtaking mountain landscapes, this trek offers a peaceful escape into the highlands where you’ll witness the traditional way of life of the H'mong people. Afterward, travel back through Ha Giang, where the road flattens out as you make your way back to Hanoi.

This Roof of Vietnam tour is a sensational adventure into one of the most remote regions of Vietnam. Combining scenic beauty, cultural encounters, and mountain trekking, this tour is a perfect blend of adventure travel and cultural immersion. Whether you’re a photographer looking for stunning landscapes or a traveler eager to experience Vietnam’s ethnic diversity, this journey will leave you with lasting memories.

Bring your camera and your sense of adventure, and join us for this once-in-a-lifetime trip into the heart of Vietnam’s Far North. Experience a side of Vietnam that few get to see—untouched, authentic, and full of surprises.

Day 1: Ha Noi – Thai Nguyen – Ha Giang | Scenic Journey Through Vietnam’s North

Begin your Ha Giang adventure with an early breakfast and a restful start, preparing for a scenic 5-hour road trip into Northern Vietnam. As you leave the bustling city of Hanoi, enjoy the changing landscapes as you head towards Ha Giang, a remote destination known for its breathtaking mountain views and ethnic diversity.

Your first stop will be in the picturesque town of Tuyen Quang, a charming destination where you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in local culture. Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant, featuring authentic flavors and fresh ingredients from the region. After lunch, make your way to the Tan Trao Historical Relic, a site rich in Vietnamese history. Explore the Tan Trao Communal House, Hong Thai Communal House, and the iconic Tan Trao banyan tree – key locations tied to the Vietnamese Revolution.

After your enriching historical stop, continue your journey to Ha Giang, the gateway to Northern Vietnam’s highlands. Upon arrival, check in at the Ha Giang Wing Bungalow a peaceful retreat nestled amidst the stunning mountain landscapes. This eco-friendly lodge provides a perfect introduction to the region, offering comfortable accommodations and a serene environment to relax after your scenic drive. This day sets the stage for your Ha Giang trekking tour, immersing you in the region’s rich culture, history, and natural beauty. Prepare for a memorable journey into one of Vietnam’s most picturesque and culturally diverse regions.

Day 2: Ha Giang – Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark Exploration

Today marks the beginning of one of the most spectacular segments of your Far North Vietnam adventure tour as you journey deep into the UNESCO-recognized Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark. After an early breakfast in Ha Giang, hop on a private vehicle or motorbike (depending on your tour style) and begin your ascent into one of Vietnam’s most dramatic and geologically unique landscapes.

As part of the legendary Ha Giang loop extended itinerary, today’s route winds through towering limestone peaks, narrow mountain passes, and ancient valleys carved over millions of years. The road itself is a marvel — with scenic switchbacks like Quan Ba Heaven Gate, where you’ll stop to admire panoramic views and the mysterious “Fairy Bosom” hills. Continue through the peaceful Quan Ba Valley, home to traditional H’mong and Dao communities, where time seems to move at its own pace.

En route to Dong Van, visit several cultural landmarks, including the historic H’mong King’s Palace in Sa Phin – a beautifully preserved fortress blending Chinese, French, and local H’mong architectural influences. This palace provides insight into the rich political and cultural history of the ethnic minorities who’ve long lived along the Northern Vietnam border belt.

As you traverse the Dong Van Karst Plateau, the landscapes grow increasingly dramatic — with deep gorges, rocky outcrops, and wind-swept ridges that stretch into the clouds. The journey offers countless photo opportunities and moments to reflect on the raw, untamed beauty of this remote region.  Arrive in Dong Van Old Quarter by late afternoon. With its cobblestone streets and preserved French colonial buildings, this small town feels like a step back in time. Settle into your guesthouse and enjoy a leisurely evening exploring local markets or sipping tea with friendly locals.  This day is a highlight of the Vietnam ethnic minority trekking tour, blending natural wonder, cultural heritage, and real adventure — a truly unforgettable experience in Vietnam’s rugged far north.

Day 3: Dong Van to Cao Bang – Sunday Market Spectacle & Mountain Odyssey

Start your day early at the Dong Van Sunday Market, a vibrant gathering of ethnic groups in traditional attire, where livestock trading and bartering offer a rare cultural glimpse. Afterward, embark on a scenic journey to Meo Vac, stopping for panoramic views at Ma Pi Leng Viewpoint and portraits of market-goers. Enjoy a delicious Tay ethnic lunch in Bao Lac before continuing through Tinh Tuc Pass and Phia Hoac Pass, with stunning views of the Ban Gioc waterfall. Arrive in Cao Bang, unwind at your hotel with riverside views, and explore the local night market. A day packed with cultural immersion, breathtaking landscapes, and traditional food.

Day 4: Cao Bang – Ban Gioc Waterfall Expedition | Mountain Passes & Natural Wonders

Start your day with a thrilling journey through three mountain passes: Ma Phuc Pass, Mã Phục Pass, and Khau Liêu Pass, offering panoramic valley views and dramatic limestone cliffs. In Phia Thap Village, immerse yourself in traditional Tay ethnic culture by learning incense making, bamboo paper crafting, and exploring stilt house architecture. Enjoy a delicious Tay lunch featuring steamed rainbow sticky rice and wood-fired duck.

In the afternoon, visit Ban Gioc Waterfall, one of Asia’s largest, with a stunning quadripartite cascade and turquoise pools perfect for a dip. Don’t miss the border viewpoint between Vietnam and China. Explore Nguom Ngao Cave, a karst wonderland with stunning stalactites, underground rivers, and eerie acoustics. End your day with leisure time in Cao Bang, with options to relax by the river or sample local street food. This day offers an unforgettable mix of natural wonders, cultural immersion, and geological exploration.

Day 5: Ban Gioc to Lang Son | Highland Crafts & Karst Landscapes

Start your day early at Ban Gioc Waterfall for stunning sunrise photography, capturing rainbow effects from mist, fishermen in the plunge pools, and panoramic views from the bamboo raft station. Afterward, embark on a Phia Thắp Eco-Village Adventure, which includes a 1.5-hour limestone mountain hike offering breathtaking 360° views of Tay stilt villages, dragon-like karst formations, and rice terraces bathed in morning light.

Visit Lan Duoi Basket Village, where you'll participate in a hands-on weaving workshop, learning to craft a mini rice basket using traditional bamboo techniques. Afterward, enjoy a delicious field-to-table Tay lunch at Lung Ri Farmhouse, featuring grilled stream fish and five-color sticky rice.

In the afternoon, dive deeper into traditional crafts with a tile-making experience, followed by a visit to Pác Rằng Blacksmith Village where you can watch hand-forged knives being shaped and try metal hammering yourself.  End your day with a scenic drive to Lang Son, passing through tea plantations, border valley vistas, and concluding with an exploration of Ky Lua night market. Upon arrival in Lang Son, check into a French-colonial hotel and enjoy views of Tam Thanh Pagoda. This day offers an immersive exploration of highland crafts, stunning karst landscapes, and local traditions. It’s a true gem for culture and nature lovers alike. 

Pro Tip: For the best waterfall shots, use an ND filter for smooth water effects. Capture panoramic shots of karst fields in Phia Thắp and sparks flying in Pác Rằng’s blacksmith workshops.  Tomorrow: Explore Lang Son’s caves and make your way back to Hanoi!

Day 6: Lang Son to Halong Bay | Border Markets to World Heritage Wonders

Start your day early at Ky Lua Market in Lang Son, where local and border merchants gather to trade, offering a cultural snapshot of the region. Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese breakfast before embarking on a scenic journey through the Dong Dang border town and the lush Bac Son Valley.  Arriving in Halong Bay, embark on a 24-hour cruise through the UNESCO World Heritage Site, exploring karst formations, kayaking through Luon Cave, and swimming at Titov Beach. Enjoy a spring roll cooking demo and end the day with squid fishing under the stars. Stay overnight on a traditional wooden junk with panoramic views of Halong Bay's stunning limestone towers, blending modern comforts with traditional design.

Day 7: Halong Bay – Hanoi - Onward Journey

Wake up to the soothing sounds of the bay, with the opportunity for a refreshing morning dip. Enjoy a relaxing breakfast on the upper deck, soaking in the breathtaking views of Halong Bay's towering karst islands rising from the emerald waters.  After breakfast, embark on an exploration of the stunning Sung Sot Cave, swim, or simply relax on board. As the boat cruises back to the jetty, enjoy a delicious brunch while passing more of the fascinating limestone formations of Halong Bay.  Upon reaching the jetty, check out and meet your transfer van, which will take you directly to Noi Bai Airport for your onward flight.

Note: Hotels are subject to change depending on availability. In the event of such changes, we will ensure to choose equivalent hotels that maintain the same level of comfort and quality.

Meals: If you have any specific dietary requirements (vegetarian, vegan, food allergies, etc.), please inform us in advance. This will allow us to communicate your needs to our restaurant partners, tour guides, and collaborators, ensuring that we can serve you better during your journey.

For food enthusiasts, Snail Adventure Tours is not only your guide to scenic landscapes but also an exceptional culinary experience. We offer you the opportunity to savor tempting local food and world-famous dishes that are a highlight of the regions we explore. From street food to traditional delicacies, our tours will provide you with an unforgettable gastronomic adventure.

Tour Includes:

English-speaking adventure guide (Other languages available upon request)

Accommodations based on double/twin occupancy

Meals as detailed in the itineraries (6 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 6 dinners)

A/C transfer and transportation throughout the tour

Sightseeing excursions as outlined in the itineraries

First aid kit for safety and emergencies

Cold water box and small fresh towels for comfort during travel

Mineral water provided for drinking throughout the trip

Permission paper for entry in Ha Giang and Ban Gioc

Night cruise on Ha Long Bay for a memorable seafaring experience

Tour Excludes:

International airfare to and from Vietnam

Travel insurance (Highly recommended for coverage)

Items of personal nature, such as souvenirs, personal shopping, etc.

Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks during meals

Mineral water beyond the amount provided by the tour

Optional excursions not included in the itinerary

Additional transport required due to any emergency situation

Personal expenses like telephone charges, laundry bills, etc.

Visa fees for entering Vietnam

Departure tax (if applicable)

Tips for the tour team and guide

Creating Unique Touring Experiences:

At Snail Adventure, we believe every journey should be as unique and personalized as you are. While the itineraries on this website are carefully crafted by our expert in-country management teams, we understand that each traveler has their own preferences, interests, and expectations.

Whether you're looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure, a deep dive into local cultures, or a luxurious escape, we are here to make your vision come to life. Our experienced consultants are ready to assist you in tailoring or custom-designing your dream tour across Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar.  Reach out to us today, and let's start planning a journey that’s as unique as your personal travel style!