Riding High in Vietnam: My Ha Giang Loop Motorbike Adventure

There is something about this open road that can express this spirit, and there is nothing more attractive than Vietnam’s lower reaches. This sloping highway is a winding street that passes through the highest peak in the country, serving as a charming bait for travelers and thrill seekers. I have encountered my reasonable adventure part, from extraordinary to extreme, but nothing can compare to the three days I spent in Xiajiang Circle. This is a career that will rethink my thoughts on sports and energy.

In October 2022, during a three-month journey through Southeast Asia, I came across the Ha Giang Loop. It was a discovery almost accidental, a hidden gem that had escaped my extensive travel blog readings. Ha Giang was not as familiar as Ha Long or Hanoi, but it was soon to be the highlight of my travel experiences. A viral TikTok video served as the unexpected guide that brought me to this less-traveled path, and for that, I am forever grateful.

The Hejiang Ring Road is usually a motorcycle route that lasts for 3-5 days, but I once set my sights on conquering it within three days. Capture? I have never driven a motorcycle before. This solution appears in the form of “Easyders”, local tour guides who provide professional knowledge and motorcycles to those who enjoy experiencing the loop in passenger seats. But my adventurous spirit is undeniable. I am too arrogant and do not allow me to take shortcuts. Despite a recent motorcycle accident in Vientiane, which resulted in my legs being peeled off and my teeth missing, I am still determined to drive on my own.

The night before I started circling, I lay on the narrow bed of the overnight bus heading to Xiajiang, nervous and excited. I don’t have travel insurance, and this decision seems reckless now. My mind is filled with “if”, but when I signed a waiver and took a crash course in driving a semi-automatic motorcycle at dawn, my fear was replaced by cautious confidence.

Before delving deeper into the journey itself, let me share some insights about booking the Xiajiang Ring Road. I once stayed at the Buffalo Hotel in Hanoi, which collaborated with the Central Backpacker on this trip. In hindsight, I hope to do more research because my experience with them is not ideal. They missed the main attractions and left people at the rest station. My friends booked a fantastic experience through Jasmine Hostel, visiting all the iconic attractions and even enjoying a boat trip at Tu San Canyon. If you plan ahead, you can consider booking through Jasmine Hostel or using Viator to ensure your location on a trip that includes all the highlights.

The logistics arrangement for this trip is very simple. Hotels in Hanoi usually store your larger luggage and provide free accommodation upon your return. The overnight bus tour requires a seven hour trek, and upon arrival, you still have a few hours of rest before starting the cycle. The price of travel usually includes all meals, accommodation, motorcycles, fuel, and transportation. This is a difficult to beat package deal.

The first day of Hajiang Ring Road was simply breathtaking. The mountains lay before us, and every turn revealed a more stunning scenery than the previous one. The road is a challenge with sharp turns and steep slopes, but my father’s experience on how to drive a motorcycle proves invaluable. The first observation point proves the beauty of the northern region of Vietnam, despite the physical tension during the journey, people cannot help but feel awe.

The lunch station not only provides food, but also offers an opportunity to relax and enjoy the scenery. The weather is perfect for cycling, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures. I am very grateful for my decision to travel in October, as it provides ideal conditions for the ring road.

Our homestay at night is a charming public facility that fosters a sense of camaraderie among riders. Although the roads there have proven to be dangerous, people’s fear of driving on the roads has been replaced by the excitement of a waterfall trip. A kind-hearted person from Easyder took the initiative to bring my bicycle back, which reminded me of my generosity when traveling.

Dinner at the homestay was an experience in itself. The communal meal was a time for bonding and bracing for the infamous ‘Happy Water,’ a local rice liquor that could easily lead to a hangover if one wasn’t careful. As the night drew to a close, I reflected on the day’s journey, the challenges faced, and the beauty witnessed. The Ha Giang Loop was living up to its reputation as an unforgettable adventure, and I was only one day in.

The second day on the Ha Giang Loop beckoned with the promise of new landscapes and the thrill of the unknown. As the sun peeked over the horizon, casting a golden glow on the mountains, I felt a surge of adrenaline. Today, I would be pushing my limits, navigating roads that twisted like serpents through the lush Vietnamese countryside.

The morning air was crisp, and as I revved the engine of my semi-automatic bike, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride. I had come a long way from the girl who could barely handle a moped in Vientiane. The road ahead was daunting, but I was ready for the challenge. The first stretch was a relatively smooth ride, allowing me to enjoy the scenery without the fear of a mishap. The mountains stood tall, their peaks shrouded in mist, as if they were the guardians of some ancient secret.

As we climbed, roads got riskier. Sharp turns required focus, inclines tested me. Father’s bike advice saved me. Riders bonded, shared stories and tips. Lunch break, hearty food, learned about others. Afternoon challenges, evening at homestay, laughter and songs. Final day closed loop, stunning views. Accomplished Ha Giang Loop, faced fears, changed.

The Ha Giang Loop was more than just a trip; it was a journey of self-discovery. It taught me about resilience, about the kindness of strangers, and about the sheer joy of adventure. It was, without a doubt, the most unforgettable trip of my life.

Related posts:
The Adventure of a Lifetime: 3 days on the Ha Giang Loop — Emma’s Daydream
The ULTIMATE guide to Vietnam’s Ha Giang Loop
Ha Giang Loop, The Ultimate Guide for an Unforgettable Trip