NORTHERN VIETNAM HIGHLANDS: HA GIANG IN DEPTH 3 DAYS

DAY 1

Hanoi – Quan Ba – Yen Minh (L/D)

Entering the Stone Highlands

06:30 – 07:00

Depart Hanoi early in the morning and begin the scenic journey north towards Ha Giang Province. As the lowlands slowly give way to dramatic mountain landscapes, your guide introduces the cultural mosaic of northern Vietnam and the ethnic communities inhabiting the highlands.

12:00 – 13:00

After lunch en route, arrive at Quan Ba Heaven Gate, the official gateway to the Dong Van Karst Plateau Global Geopark. From here, enjoy sweeping views over the Tam Son Valley and admire the iconic Fairy Twin Mountains, a natural limestone formation deeply rooted in local legend.

14:30 – 15:45

Continue to Lung Khuy Cave, considered one of the most beautiful caves in Ha Giang. A gentle walk leads you through spectacular chambers filled with ancient stalactites and stalagmites, offering insight into the region’s unique karst geology.

16:30 – 17:45

Later in the afternoon, visit Lung Tam Linen Weaving Village, where Hmong artisans preserve centuries-old techniques of hemp weaving and indigo dyeing. Observe the meticulous handmade process and learn how textiles play a vital role in local identity and daily life.

18:30 – 20:00

Arrive in Yen Minh by early evening. Settle into a boutique homestay surrounded by forested hills and enjoy a home-cooked dinner hosted by a local family.

Overnight in Yen Minh.

What to expect today:

A gentle introduction to Ha Giang’s landscapes and ethnic cultures, balanced with light walking, cultural encounters and relaxed pacing.

DAY 2

Yen Minh – Dong Van – Lung Cu – Meo Vac (B/L/D)

Life on the Stone Plateau

07:30 – 08:30

After breakfast, travel deeper into the heart of the Dong Van Karst Plateau. Stop at the winding Tham Ma Pass, once used to test the strength of horses transporting goods across the mountains.

10:00 – 11:30

Arrive in Dong Van Old Quarter, a small but atmospheric town shaped by centuries of cross-border trade. Wander its narrow streets and traditional houses before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant.

12:00 – 13:00

Lunch at a local restaurant.

14:00 – 15:00

In the afternoon, continue to Lung Cu Flag Tower, standing proudly at Vietnam’s northernmost point. From the summit, take in panoramic views of villages scattered across the borderland valleys.

15:15 – 16:15

Descend to the nearby Lo Lo Chai Village, home to the Lo Lo ethnic group. A guided village walk offers rare insight into traditional adobe houses, ancestral worship practices and everyday rural life at the edge of the country.

16:30 – 18:00

The journey continues along the legendary Ma Pi Leng Pass, widely regarded as Vietnam’s most spectacular mountain road. Pause at several viewpoints to admire the sheer cliffs plunging into the Nho Que River far below.

18:30 – 20:00

Arrive in Meo Vac by evening. Dinner and overnight at a stone house homestay, where the quiet mountain night sets the tone for rest and reflection.

What to expect today:

Striking geological scenery, authentic village encounters and one of the most dramatic mountain drives in Southeast Asia.

DAY 3

Meo Vac – Nho Que River – Hanoi (B/L)

The Emerald River & Farewell

07:00 – 08:00

After breakfast, descend towards the Nho Que River, a jade-green ribbon carving through the Tu San Canyon — the deepest gorge in Vietnam.

09:00 – 10:30

Board a boat for a tranquil cruise along the river, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs rising hundreds of meters above the water. From this unique perspective, the immense scale of the canyon reveals itself, offering a peaceful yet awe-inspiring contrast to the mountain roads above.

11:30 – 12:30

Return to Meo Vac for an early lunch before beginning the journey back to Hanoi.

12:30 – 19:30

Along the way, enjoy final views of the northern highlands as the landscape gradually softens.

19:30 – 20:00

Arrive in Hanoi in the evening, marking the end of an immersive journey through Vietnam’s far north.

What to expect today:

A calm, scenic finale highlighting Ha Giang’s natural grandeur and a smooth transition back to city life.