Both Sapa and Ha Giang are two famous and attractive tourist destinations in northern Vietnam. If you find yourself not knowing which place to visit, why not both? You can choose to visit Sapa first and then move on from there to Ha Giang. The journey from Sapa to Ha Giang is one of the most scenic and thrilling trips you can take. In today’s post, we will explain how to get from Sapa to Ha Giang in detail with all the options, so you can pick the one that suits your travel style. So without further ado, let’s get into it.

How far is it from Sapa to Ha Giang ?

Sapa and Ha Giang are two stunning provinces in northern Vietnam, with Sapa in the northwest and Ha Giang in the northeast. The Sapa to Ha Giang distance may vary depending on where you’re headed. If you're heading to Dong Van in Ha Giang, it's about 375 km. From Sapa to Ha Giang city, it’s roughly 232 km. The shortest route is 196 km, from Lao Cai bus station to Ha Giang bus station, but you’ll need to go to Lao Cai first before going to Sapa.

The journey can be a little challenging but worth it for the scenery. You'll pass through breathtaking mountain landscapes typical of northern Vietnam, with high peaks, mist, and lush greenery. The air is fresh and clean, a nice break from the usual hustle and bustle.

Is the route from Sapa to Ha Giang dangerous ?

The road from Sapa to Ha Giang is absolutely beautiful, showcasing Vietnam's majestic natural landscapes. However, it's not an easy trip. The road is steep and winding, with dizzying cliffs. On sunny days, it's already a tough drive. Add in rain, wind, or fog, and it gets quite dangerous due to slippery slopes and possible landslides. So, while the views are fantastic, be prepared for a challenging journey.

Getting from Sapa to Ha Giang

As there is no Sapa to Ha Giang train, you’re only options are taking a bus, a limousine, or by self–driving.

Sapa to Ha Giang motorbike 

If you’re in for an adventure, riding a motorbike can be a thrilling choice. This option is best for those who have good health, stamina, and experience with driving in mountainous terrain. The journey can be challenging due to steep, winding roads, but it offers unparalleled freedom and stunning views along the way. The ride takes around 6–7 hours, but you can make stops along the way, maybe even spend the night at one of the villages if you’re not in a rush.

You can rent a bike from multiple shops in Sapa, with prices ranging from $10–40 USD/day, depending on the type of motorbike. Just make sure you have experience in motorbike riding and have a driving permit in Vietnam.

Limousine Bus Sapa to Ha Giang 

For a more luxurious and comfortable journey, opt for high-quality limousine or coach services. Limousines provide spacious, comfortable seating, while coaches come equipped with modern beds and additional amenities such as private TVs, Wi-Fi, drinking water, wet towels, curtains, massage chairs, and USB chargers.

How to Book: You can book tickets online through the companies’ websites, local travel agencies, or directly at your hotel in Sapa. Prices for limousine or coach services can range from $15 to $30 depending on the level of comfort and the company.

Bus from Sapa to Ha Giang

For those who prefer a safer and more relaxed option, there’s always the choice of taking a bus. As the ride takes about 5–6 hours, we recommend getting on a comfortable night bus from Sapa to Ha Giang. Several bus companies operate routes between Sapa and Ha Giang, with ticket prices usually ranging from $8 to $15 depending on the company and the time you travel. These buses typically follow routes QL 2, QL 70, and QL 279. 

How to Book: You can purchase bus tickets online through various travel websites or directly from the bus companies’ official sites. Alternatively, you can buy tickets at the bus station or through local travel agencies and hotels in Sapa. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

Local Agency

Booking your trip with a local travel agency like Vietnam Original Travel can be very convenient. These agencies offer private car services and can tailor the trip to your needs, ensuring a hassle-free experience. You can contact us directly through our website, via mail, or by phone. We can arrange for a private car to take you from Sapa to Ha Giang City or other districts such as Hoang Su Phi.

Sapa to Ha Giang tour from Hanoi

Day 1: Hanoi - Sapa - Fansipan Cable Car - Stone Church - Night Market

Evening Departure from Hanoi: Start your Sapa to Ha Giang tour from Hanoi in the evening to save time. A sleeper bus or limousine is a comfy choice.

Arriving in Sapa: Once you get to Sapa, check into your accommodation, store your luggage, and get ready to explore.

Fansipan Cable Car: Kick off your Sapa adventure by visiting Fansipan Peak, known as the "Roof of Indochina." Head to the MGallery hotel to buy tickets for the Mường Hoa Mountain Railway, Fansipan Mountain Railway, and the Fansipan Cable Car. The cable car takes you to Fansipan Station, where you can either walk up 600 steps or take the Fansipan Mountain Railway.

Sapa Stone Church: Next, visit the Sapa Stone Church, built by the French in 1895. Despite its age, the Roman Gothic church has stood the test of time with its seven naves and carved stone structure.

Sapa Night Market: End your day at the Sapa Night Market, open on Fridays and weekends. The market buzzes with activity, offering textiles, handicrafts, and local eats. It’s a lively spot to experience the culture of the region’s ethnic minorities.

Day 2: Lao Chai and Ta Van Villages- Ha Giang Town - Km0

Lao Chai and Ta Van Villages: Spend the morning visiting ethnic villages like Lao Chai and Ta Van to learn about local mountain life. Consider booking a guided tour with Vietnam Original Travel for an enriching experience.

Ha Giang Town: After exploring the villages, travel 5-6 hours to Ha Giang Town. Rest here overnight to gear up for your next adventure in the Sapa to Ha Giang tour, towards Dong Van and Meo Vac.

Km0: Don’t miss the Kilometre 0 milestone in Ha Giang city center. It’s a great photo op to mark your journey.

Day 3: Quan Ba Mountain - Dong Van Stone Plateau - Pao’s House - Dong Van

Quan Ba Double Mountain: Start your third day of the Sapa to Ha Giang tour with a visit to Quan Ba Fairy Mountain, known for its picturesque scenery. Nearby, Quan Ba Heaven's Gate marks the start of the Happiness Road leading to Dong Van Stone Plateau.

Dong Van Stone Plateau: Explore the UNESCO-recognized Dong Van Stone Plateau Geological Park. This area spans Quan Ba, Yen Minh, Dong Van, and Meo Vac districts, offering stunning natural formations and peaceful mountain life.

Pao’s House: Visit Pao’s House, an ancient, aristocratic home in the mountainous region that attracts many visitors with its unique architecture.

Dong Van: Spend the night in Dong Van. Choose between a hotel or a local homestay. In the evening, explore the old quarter, rich with H'Mông culture and bustling markets.

Day 4: King Meo Palace - Ma Pi Leng - Nho Que River - Meo Vac

King Meo’s Palace: Start off the fourth day of your Sapa to Ha Giang tour with a visit to King Meo’s Palace, also known as the Vuong Family Palace. This impressive structure blends Qing dynasty, H'Mong, and French architecture and was built from sturdy blue stone.

Ma Pi Leng Pass: Conquer the Ma Pi Leng Pass, one of northern Vietnam’s most thrilling routes with its hairpin bends and stunning views. Look out for the “Death Cliff” and the White Cliff landmarks.

Nho Que River - Tu San Gorge: To reach Nho Que River, if you're not an experienced driver, opt for local services to reach the jetty. You can explore the river by motorboat, paddle boat, or kayak (for the adventurous who can swim and are in good health). There are also spots to rent ethnic minorities’ costumes to take photos by the river.

Meo Vac: In Meo Vac, visit the Khau Vai love market if you’re there in March or April (lunar calendar). Don’t miss trying local specialties like five-colored sticky rice (Xoi Ngu Sac), ginseng root soup (Chao Au Tau), grilled moss (Reu Nuong), corn flour (Men Men), and corn wine.

Day 5: Meo Vac - Ha Giang City - Hanoi

On the last day of your Sapa to Ha Giang tour, head back from Meo Vac to Ha Giang City. You can either retrace your route via Yen Minh and Quan Ba or take QL4C and QL34 through Cao Bang province for new landscapes. For those seeking more adventure, consider the route through Du Gia and Coc Pang, stopping at Tham Luong Tower and enjoying the Lung Ho sunset view.

Need More Info ?

If you need more details or want to customize your trip, reach out to Vietnam Original Travel. We specialize in tailor-made tours across Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Thailand. Our local experts will craft unique and memorable experiences tailored to your interests and preferences. Contact us to make your journey in Vietnam unforgettable!

=> Ha Giang Loop 3 Days Tour From Hanoi