Hills, mountains, exoticness, cool weather and a sense of being far away from modern civilization. It’s all possible in Vietnam, and in particular, Ha Giang, way up in the Northeastern Vietnam, near the border with China. That says it all. So, if you are ready to experience someplace few in Vietnam even go to, then bring your sense of adventure and your trailblazing spirit and head up to Ha Giang. Don’t forget to charge that camera, you’ll be using it quite a bit.

The drive to the area from the capital Hanoi may sound daunting, considering it will take about 7 hours. But this is where your fully charged camera will be useful. The scenery is already outstanding with stops to various small villages also included. After the long drive, stretch your legs with a short walk around Ha Giang to a Tay village, set in a picturesque valley near town.

Hop in the car and continue northwards to the town of Meo Vac, inching closer and closer to the Chinese border. Stop by and say hello to the Hmong who live in villages scattered along the way. Reaching Meo Vac in early afternoon, set off on a light trek along the banks of the Nho Que River to visit villages of the Tay and Nung hilltribes.

Place yourself in the colorful world of the humble and traditional hilltribes. The market at Meo Vac is a sea of color and life. From here, take a short drive to Dong Van, passing over the awesome views that only the Heaven’s Gate Pass can provide. This road skirts the Chinese border soaring above a deep valley dotted with fields and rock formations. Once in town, explore the environment and meet the local villagers in their settlement, eager to hear what you have experienced so far.

Now, hop in the car once more for another spectacular ride, this time to Lung Cu, the northernmost point in Vietnam. As you may have noticed, the north is diverse, and it is no different here. The local market here also demonstrates that diversity, with tons of different hilltribe clans all converging to trade their goods in a sea of opulent color. After, visit a palace of a former Hmong king and take a walk through Pho Bang town whose lanes are filled with traditional Chinese-style houses.

Head over to Tam Son, where a light trek to a Hmong village awaits. Spend the night in town and loop back to the capital Hanoi, passing over Ha Giang again for more photo opportunities.

Scenic beauty coupled with diverse cultures, our Roof of Vietnam tour is a sensational journey into one of the country’s most remote regions. For more unforgettable journeys into the country, check out our Vietnam tours page.

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