Vietnam · Geological Wonders

3-Day Ha Giang Highlands Tour from Hanoi with Nho Que River Cruise

3 Days Round trip from Hanoi – Quan Ba – Yen Minh Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Explore the Dong Van Karst Plateau Global Geopark, a UNESCO-recognized geological wonder
02 Journey through Vietnam's most spectacular mountain passes, including the legendary Ma Pi Leng Pass
03 Cruise along the emerald waters of the Nho Que River deep within dramatic Tu San Canyon
04 Visit ethnic minority villages such as Lung Tam and Lo Lo Chai for insight into traditional highland life
05 Experience authentic local culture through boutique homestay accommodation hosted by local families
06 Small-group format for a slower pace, deeper cultural interaction, and personalized service

Experience the raw beauty and cultural depth of Vietnam's far north on this 3-day Ha Giang adventure through the Dong Van Karst Plateau. Travel from Hanoi into dramatic mountain landscapes, limestone valleys, and ethnic minority villages, discovering iconic landmarks such as Quan Ba Heaven Gate, Lung Cu Flag Tower, Ma Pi Leng Pass, and the emerald Nho Que River. Explore ancient caves, traditional weaving villages, and historic border towns while gaining insight into the lives, traditions, and resilience of highland communities. Blending breathtaking scenery, geological wonders, and authentic cultural encounters, this journey offers an immersive introduction to one of Vietnam's most spectacular regions.

09:00 - 10:30: Enjoy a boat trip along the Nho Que River through Tu San Canyon, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and emerald waters.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 3 Days

Tour type Shared

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Not applicable

Cities Hanoi, Ha Giang

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Hanoi to Yen Minh via Quan Ba and Lung Tam

06:30 - 12:00: Early morning departure from Hanoi to Ha Giang Province. Enjoy a scenic drive through northern mountain landscapes and ethnic minority regions, with short photo stops along the way.
12:00 - 13:00: Lunch at a local restaurant en route.
13:00 - 14:30: Visit Quan Ba Heaven Gate and enjoy panoramic views of Tam Son Valley and the Fairy Twin Mountains.
14:45 - 15:45: Explore Lung Khuy Cave, walking through impressive limestone chambers and stalactite formations.
16:00 - 17:30: Visit Lung Tam Linen Weaving Village to learn about traditional Hmong hemp weaving and indigo dyeing.
18:30 - 20:00: Arrive in Yen Minh. Dinner and overnight at a local homestay surrounded by mountain scenery.

Day 02

Yen Minh to Meo Vac via Dong Van and Lung Cu

07:30 - 08:30: Breakfast at the homestay and departure from Yen Minh.
08:30 - 09:30: Scenic drive through Tham Ma Pass with photo stops along the winding mountain road.
10:00 - 11:30: Visit Dong Van Old Quarter and stroll through its traditional houses and historic streets.
12:00 - 13:00: Lunch at a local restaurant in Dong Van.
14:00 - 15:00: Visit Lung Cu Flag Tower, the northernmost point of Vietnam, and enjoy panoramic border views.
15:15 - 16:15: Walk through Lo Lo Chai Village to observe traditional houses and the daily life of the Lo Lo ethnic group.
16:30 - 18:00: Drive along the spectacular Ma Pi Leng Pass with multiple stops overlooking the Nho Que River canyon.
18:30 - 20:00: Arrive in Meo Vac. Dinner and overnight at a local homestay.

Day 03

Meo Vac and Nho Que River to Hanoi

07:00 - 08:00: Breakfast at the homestay and transfer to the Nho Que River.
09:00 - 10:30: Enjoy a boat trip along the Nho Que River through Tu San Canyon, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and emerald waters.
11:30 - 12:30: Return to Meo Vac for an early lunch.
12:30 - 19:30: Journey back to Hanoi, enjoying final views of the northern highlands along the way.
19:30 - 20:00: Arrival in Hanoi. End of the tour.

Where this trip takes you

Quan Ba Heaven Gate, Ma Pi Leng Pass, Nho Que River, Tu San Canyon

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Hanoi – Quan Ba – Yen Minh 2 cities · 3 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Accommodation: standard hotel
Meals as included in the tour itinerary
Entrance fees for sightseeing
Transfer by air-conditioned shuttle bus for joining group tours, if any SIC/group tour is mentioned
Experienced local English-speaking guide as per the itinerary
Mineral water

What's Not Included

Value-added tax
Personal expenses
Tips for the driver and tour guide
Meals not mentioned in the program
Visa service
Travel insurance

What to bring

Your travel passport (with at least six months' validity and two empty pages)
A Vietnam visa (if required for entry into Vietnam)
Personal items such as sunscreen, hats, and shoes

Know before you go

Please ensure your passport is valid for at least six months before your entry date.
Standard hotel check-in and check-out times are 2:00 pm and 12:00 pm, respectively. Early check-in or late check-out depends on room availability.
The sightseeing order may change slightly to work best for your trip. Please be assured that all listed places will still be covered.
When booking the trip with us, please note any special requests, anniversaries, and food allergies so we can arrange them for you in advance.
The currently included hotels are 3-star properties. If you wish to upgrade to a higher category, please click "Send Customization Request" or leave us a note upon booking, and we will get back to you soon.

Logistics