Ha Giang Loop Itinerary: 3D2N vs 4D3N – Which One’s Better?

Thinking of doing the legendary Ha Giang Loop but not sure how many days you need? Most backpackers choose between a 3-day, 2-night ride or the slower-paced 4-day, 3-night version. Both offer epic views, local villages, and unforgettable rides — but your experience will change depending on how long you go.

Here’s everything you need to compare both itineraries and pick the one that fits your trip best.

What is the Ha Giang Loop?

The Ha Giang Loop is a multi-day motorbike route that winds through the most remote and jaw-dropping landscapes in northern Vietnam. Expect towering limestone peaks, winding mountain passes, and cozy homestays in ethnic minority villages.

The journey starts and ends in Ha Giang City, and you can either ride solo, go Easy Rider (on the back of a local guide’s bike), or ride alongside with a friend.

3D2N Itinerary: The Express Adventure

Best for: Travelers short on time who still want the full Loop experience.

Itinerary:

• Day 0: Depart Hanoi on a sleeper bus

• Day 1: Ha Giang → Yen Minh

• Day 2: Yen Minh → Dong Van

• Day 3: Dong Van → Mã Pí Lèng Pass → Ha Giang

You’ll hit the highlights, including Dong Van Old Town and the famous Mã Pí Lèng Pass, but it’s a faster pace with longer riding days and fewer long stops.

Prices (3D2N):

• Easy Rider: 3,900,000₫ (~$159.9 USD)

• Ride Yourself: 2,900,000₫ (~$118.9 USD) — Valid international motorbike license required

• Seat Behind a Friend: 2,100,000₫ (~$86.1 USD)

• 

Pros:

• Fits tighter Vietnam itineraries

• Covers all the major highlights

• Cheaper and quicker

Cons:

• Less time for photos, breaks, and village stops

• Can feel rushed on Day 3

4D3N Itinerary: The Full Experience

Best for: Travelers who want a more relaxed, immersive journey.

Itinerary:

• Day 0: Depart Hanoi on a sleeper bus

• Day 1: Ha Giang → Yen Minh

• Day 2: Yen Minh → Dong Van

• Day 3: Dong Van → Mã Pí Lèng Pass → Du Gia

• Day 4: Du Gia → Ha Giang

With 4 days, the ride becomes more about soaking in the views, bonding with your group, and spending more time in local villages like Du Gia, which most 3-day tours skip or rush through.

Prices (4D3N):

• Easy Rider: 4,900,000₫ (~$200.9 USD)

• Ride Yourself: 3,900,000₫ (~$159.9 USD) — Valid international motorbike license required

• Seat Behind a Friend: 2,900,000₫ (~$118.9 USD)

Pros:

• More chill with shorter riding days

• Includes Du Gia waterfall, swimming, and village life

• Better for photos, stops, and avoiding exhaustion

Cons:

• Costs a bit more

• Takes an extra day of your travel plan

Side-by-Side Itinerary Comparison

So, Which Ha Giang Loop Itinerary Should You Choose?

Choose 3D2N if:

• You’re on a tight Vietnam schedule

• You want to save money

• You don’t mind long rides each day

Choose 4D3N if:

• You want the full experience without rushing

• You want to swim in Du Gia, take more photos, and enjoy every village

• You have 4+ days to explore northern Vietnam properly

Both options include the epic Mã Pí Lèng Pass, local meals, ethnic homestays, and small group vibes with 8–14 people max.

Start Your Loop with Ha Giang Vision

Book your Ha Giang Loop Itinerary through Ha Giang Vision and we’ll take care of the details — including transport Hanoi.

Before departure, visit our offices in Hanoi, Sapa, Cat Ba, Ha Long, or Ninh Binh to book your spot. Ride our comfortable sleeper bus to Ha Giang, arriving around 3:00 AM.

You’ll get a free dorm bed, and if you come a day early, we’ll serve breakfast at 8:00 AM before the tour begins at 9:30 AM.

•  Ha Giang Vision — Based at Quiri Hostel Ha Giang, Phuong Thien Commune

•  Hotline: (+84) 981623096

•  hagiangvision.com

•  Book also via quirihostelhanoi.com