The author outlined that her group curled their way high above the rivers on rocky, dusty country roads, clinging to the edge of cliff faces and threading their way through limestone pinnacles and picturesque green fields of rice.
She pointed out that the 350 kilometre loop road, is hugely popular among adventure travelers, although it is still considered to be an off-the-beaten track experience, due to its position in the remote north of the country.
Winding through some of the most breathtaking scenery throughout southeast Asia, it is famous as a motorbike ride as it enables travelers to connect closely with the landscape and the thrill of continuous narrow and snaking bends.
She described the loop as an exhilarating rush to ride open to the elements, enjoying the challenging terrain and stunning landscape. Every mountain village along the way welcomed the group with warmth, offering fun interactions with the locals and a chance to experience both local food and customs.
She also proposed numerous ways for visitors to complete the Ha Giang loop by booking tours or riding solo on a semi-automatic motorbike.
The author suggested that travelers book a trip to ride as a passenger behind a friend, or alternatively choose the most popular ‘easy-rider’ option, which allows them to sit on the back of the bike, enjoying the scenery, while an experienced local takes care of the driving.
She revealed that QT Motorbikes and Tours, Ha Giang have a good reputation for new bikes, whilst encouraging travelers to undergo a trial ride before renting.
She also recommended that visitors to time off the motorbike to enjoy a leisurely boat ride along the Nho Que river, a turquoise and winding stream that cuts its scenic path between sheer limestone cliffs. In addition, washing off the dust with a swim at Du Bia waterfall is also particularly refreshing activity.
Her group were hugely impressed by the local cuisine as they enjoy breakfasts and dinners with local homestay owners, stopping for lunches along the loop and ordering an array of authentic and delicious local foods each day. Popular Vietnamese dishes include Banh Mi, Pho, Bun cha and Banh xeo, accompanied by ‘Happy Water’, the local rice wine, she said.