The Shock

Quan Ba Heaven Gate - Situated at an elevation of 1,500 meters, Quan Ba’s Heaven Gate offers the first glimpse into the rocky paradise of Dong Van, visible on the horizon. From this vantage point, the majestic mountains encircling the Tam Son village, shrouded in clouds and mist, can be admired. Whether it’s winter or summer, a jacket is likely needed due to the cool climate.

Yen Minh - The journey continues through Yen Minh’s stunning Cloud Mountains and its picturesque pine forest atop the peaks. The scent of pine resin is noticeable from afar, wafting along the road. The forest, crowning the mountain before reaching Yen Minh town, displays a magical color that shifts with the seasons. In spring, it is adorned with beautiful pink and purple buckwheat flowers. After passing through Yen Minh town, the breathtaking Tham Ma Pass awaits, a must-see on the Loop.

Phố Cáo - Time will be spent exploring the ancient town of Pho Cao, the gateway to the Dong Van Karst Plateau. Established in the last century, Pho Cao was once a significant village and still retains the rustic charm of an ancient settlement. The old houses, with yellow walls and stone fences, and minimal windows, maintain warmth in winter and coolness in summer. The village, home to around 5,000 inhabitants, is predominantly of the Hmong ethnic group. During the French occupation, the surrounding areas were extensively used for opium cultivation, which is why the houses feature better structures and characteristic elements from that era, such as opium flower-shaped sculptures.

Phó Bảng - The beauty of Pho Bang town, once the capital of Dong Van district, will be admired. It remains inhabited by Chinese (Han) descendants, being close to the China border. The clay houses, over 100 years old, feature wooden doors, old Chinese script sentences, brown moss walls, and yin-yang roof tiles. The residents engage in agriculture and small trading, benefiting from proximity to the China border. Recently, villagers have been encouraged to cultivate roses, creating a vibrant floral carpet when in bloom.

Lao Sa - A brief visit to see the newly constructed Trump-style fence, built last year, now separating China from Vietnam. Previously, ethnic groups crossed informally without documentation. The sunset will be enjoyed on the road leading to the cultural village of Lao Sa, perched on a cliff. Besides the stunning views, reaching this hilly terrain offers a glimpse into a Hmong community village that, in addition to agriculture, thrives on silver casting. Renowned throughout the district, families have been crafting rings, necklaces, and bracelets for over a century, often shaped like flowers and butterflies, with bells that tinkle with each step women take.

The After-Shock

Dong Van - The Old Quarter will be visited, one of the most iconic areas in Dong Van town, surrounded by lush valleys and rocky mountains. Most of its 40 houses were constructed during the French colonization, with some dating back to 1810-1820. Their architecture is inspired by Chinese design, featuring yin-yang roofs, thick walls, and ironwood structures. Currently, these houses serve as small restaurants and shops for travelers. The most renowned is Pho Co Coffee, owned by the Luong family of the Tay ethnicity, retaining its impressive ancient beauty.

Ma Pi Leng Pass - Known as the ‘Bridge of a Horse’s Nose’ due to its shape, this is the most awe-inspiring mountain pass in Vietnam. At 1,500 meters high, it offers views of endless limestone mountain ranges and clear skies, along with a balcony overlooking Su Tan Canyon and the Nho Que River below. The journey continues through Meo Vac village, passing incredible sites like the ‘M’ road and the French fortress, en route to Du Gia.

Du Gia - The road is flanked by rocky mountains, transitioning to lush green hilltops and terraced rice fields beside small ethnic local homes. Upon reaching the village of Du Gia, a rest is taken to admire the rice fields under the sunset’s glow.

A Romantic Goodbye

Đường Thượng - The drive through the serene villages of Duong Thuong, nestled in a beautiful valley and surrounded by towering mountains, is a delight. The flat road passes through cornfields and small villages at the heart of the mountain.

A Boong Waterfall - A visit to a secret waterfall, exclusively visited by Borderlands Tours, will be enjoyed.

• Water
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Motorbike, gas, protective gear

• Soft drinks, alcohol

We are the only local tour group offering a road trip to the most unspoiled and remote villages of Ha Giang, hidden in lost valleys and topping karst mountain peaks. A fascinating tour through breathtaking scenery, with steep cliffs, lush landscapes, and curvy roads. We offer a close view of the ethnics who once migrated from China to Vietnam, and whose generations still keep the flame of their own oral legends, distinct language, and religious rituals. We go far from the crowds and close to the real daily life of Ha Giang’s people. A deep cultural immersion for a unique and life-changing experience.

Our tours are unique in this area and focus on having a 100% positive impact on local people’s lives. What does that mean? You will eat, sleep in authentic ethnic restaurants and accommodations, and get guided by real local people. Currently, agencies take fees from the local people and guide people to eat and sleep in businesses run by rich outsider investors.

If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.