Travel Guide, Ha Giang Loop
How To Get To Ha Giang From Sapa: Ultimate Guide
Dec
Both Sapa and Ha Giang are two famous tourist destinations, captivating with the beauty of the Northern Vietnamese mountains and the charm of the local culture and people. This often leaves many travelers wondering which of these two places to visit, as each is equally beautiful and enticing.
Traveling from Sapa to Ha Giang presents an exciting opportunity to explore some of Vietnam’s most stunning landscapes and immerse yourself in the diverse cultural tapestry of the northern highlands. This journey, winding through mountainous terrains and offering glimpses into rural life, is as enriching as the destinations themselves. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a culture enthusiast, or simply in love with nature, the route from Sapa to Ha Giang is a journey that promises breathtaking scenery, unique cultural experiences, and memories to last a lifetime.
Sapa – Ha Giang Distance
Everyone knows that Sapa and Ha Giang are two provinces in the mountainous region of Northern Vietnam. These provinces share a border, with Sapa located in the Northwest and Ha Giang in the Northeast. Both of these highland tourist destinations captivate many travelers with their stunning beauty.
Additionally, a common question among many tourists is about the distance from Sapa to Ha Giang. If you start from the town of Sapa to Ha Giang, the distance you will cover is about 200 kilometers. This route isn’t overly long, but due to the mainly winding and challenging mountainous terrain, the travel time might be extended. However, it’s precisely this challenging aspect of the journey that attracts many adventure travelers and motorcyclists to choose this route from Sapa to Ha Giang, as it fulfills their passion for adventure travel.
To provide more details about the travel distance between Ha Giang and Sapa, here’s how it looks. If your chosen destination is Dong Van Town in Ha Giang, the distance you’ll travel is approximately 375 kilometers. However, if you’re going from Sapa town, specifically from the Sapa bus station, to the center of Ha Giang city, the distance is about 232 kilometers. The shortest travel distance is about 196 kilometers from Lao Cai bus station to Ha Giang bus station, but this requires you to make the journey to the Lao Cai bus station first.
It’s important to note that these distances are estimates and can vary depending on the route you choose, your mode of transportation, and other influencing factors. The actual distance might be longer or shorter, so it’s good to keep that in mind.
Is the diversion road dangerous?
As mentioned earlier, both of these provinces are in the mountainous region. Consequently, the travel routes involve many passes and steep, dangerous slopes. Additionally, the weather poses its own challenges, primarily due to fog that often appears in the mornings and evenings. This fog can obstruct visibility, making travel even more difficult. Therefore, if you decide to go on a motorbike tour, it’s crucial to choose a reliable mode of transport to ensure safety. Moreover, the person operating the vehicle should also be very skilled in handling it, especially in such challenging conditions.
Though the journey can be challenging and dangerous, the reward lies in the incredible beauty of the route. Along the way, you’re treated to the majestic and poetic natural scenery typical of the mountainous provinces of Vietnam. Towering mountains shrouded in mist, wildflowers, and greenery by the roadside – all of it adds to a uniquely captivating beauty. The air here is also fresher and cooler, free from the pollution industrial smog, and the loud hum of engine noise that’s common in busier areas. This route offers a serene and visually stunning experience, showcasing the untouched beauty of Vietnam’s highlands.
Ways of getting from Sapa to Ha Giang
Choosing the right mode of transportation is also crucial, as it will accompany you throughout your journey if you’re on a motorbike tour. Even if not, it has the essential task of getting you to your destination safely. There are two main options you can consider for traveling from Sapa to Ha Giang: riding a motorbike or taking a bus. Each of these options offers a different experience and caters to different preferences, whether you’re seeking the thrill and flexibility of a motorbike adventure or the relative comfort and ease of a bus journey.
Motorbike
Motorbikes are often the vehicle of choice for professional adventure travelers and motorcyclists. However, if you opt for a motorbike, you need to have good health, endurance, and experience in navigating mountainous terrains. Though this path can be challenging, it undoubtedly offers a plethora of exciting and unique experiences. Riding a motorbike allows for a more intimate connection with the landscape and a sense of freedom that’s hard to replicate with other modes of transportation.
Road from Sapa to Ha Giang: From Bac Ha – Xin Man – Hoang Su Phi – Ha Giang – Dong Van Town – Meo Vac.
Bus
If you’re not a professional motorcyclist, it’s safer to choose bus travel instead of risking a motorbike journey. Nowadays, many bus services are operating between Sapa and Ha Giang and vice versa. The bus fare for a trip to Ha Giang usually ranges around 220,000 VND per ticket, depending on the bus company and the time of travel. These buses typically travel along routes such as National Highways 2, 70, and 279.
Opting for a bus is a safe and convenient way to enjoy the journey without the challenges of navigating the mountainous roads yourself. It’s a great choice for those who want to enjoy the scenic beauty of the route in comfort and safety.
Here are some bus companies you can consider for your travel between Ha Giang and Lao Cai (Sapa):
- Tien Phuong Ha Giang – Lao Cai: Contact numbers +84985 418 136 or +84966 275 179.
- Ngoc Nhat Ha Giang – Lao Cai: Contact numbers +84983 765 811 or +84963 575 611.
- Trung Bac Ha Giang – Lao Cai – Sapa: Contact numbers +84961 580 088 or +84961 583 848.
A few tips when traveling by bus:
- The journey usually takes about 5-6 hours. You can choose between a sleeper bus or a seated bus depending on your comfort preference.
- It’s advisable to call in advance to inquire about departure times to avoid missing your bus.
- Consider carrying motion sickness medication, as the winding and steep roads can cause discomfort for some travelers.
Traveling from Sapa to Ha Giang is an adventure that offers not just a location change, but a journey through some of Vietnam’s most stunning landscapes and cultural heartlands. Whether you choose the independence and adventure of a motorbike journey or the comfort and ease of a direct bus, the route promises captivating experiences and breathtaking views. The journey between these two iconic destinations is more than just travel; it’s an exploration of the vibrant soul of Northern Vietnam.
FAQs
Is it safe to travel by motorbike to Ha Giang from Sapa?
Traveling by motorbike from Sapa to Ha Giang can be safe, provided that you are an experienced rider accustomed to long-distance biking and navigating challenging terrains. The route is known for its steep, winding roads and varying weather conditions, which can be demanding. Safety largely depends on your riding skills, weather conditions, and road familiarity. It’s crucial to have a well-maintained motorbike, wear appropriate safety gear, and stay informed about the weather forecast. Additionally, being aware of local traffic rules and conditions is essential. For those who are not experienced motorcyclists, it might be safer to consider alternative modes of transportation, like buses, to ensure a secure and enjoyable journey.
Are there direct buses from Sapa to Ha Giang?
Yes, there are direct bus services available from Sapa to Ha Giang. These buses offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the two destinations without the need for transfers. The journey typically takes around 5-6 hours, depending on the route and traffic conditions. It’s advisable to check the current bus schedules as they can vary, and booking in advance is recommended to secure your seat, especially during peak travel seasons or holidays. These buses are often equipped with essential amenities, making the journey relatively comfortable and straightforward for travelers.
What are the must-see stops along the way from Sapa to Ha Giang?
Along the journey from Sapa to Ha Giang, several must-see stops showcase the region’s breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Key stops include the enchanting Muong Hoa Valley, known for its picturesque rice terraces and vibrant ethnic minority villages. The majestic Silver Waterfall (Thac Bac) and Love Waterfall offer stunning natural scenery and refreshing breaks. Exploring local markets and villages like Bac Ha Market or the H’Mong King’s Palace in Bac Ha provides a glimpse into the region’s diverse cultures.
Additionally, the Quan Ba Heaven Gate and the famous Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark are not to be missed, offering spectacular views of the unique limestone landscapes and deep cultural significance. Each of these stops adds a unique flavor to your journey, enriching your travel experience with memorable sights and insights.
