Ha Giang to Ha Long Bay: A complete guide for travelers

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How to get from Ha Giang to Ha Long Bay? – By road (Source: Collected)

From Ha Giang to Ha Long Bay, Vietnam offers a diverse tapestry of landscapes waiting to be explored. This journey will take you through the country’s northern region, where towering mountains, lush valleys, and emerald waters converge to create breathtaking vistas at every turn. It can be done by various means of transportation.

1. Distance from Ha Giang to Ha Long Bay

Ha Giang is a province located in the northernmost part of Vietnam, nestled in the majestic landscapes of the country’s mountains. On the other hand, Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Gulf of Tonkin, off the coast of Quang Ninh Province. The distance between Ha Giang and Ha Long Bay is approximately 460 kilometers. The journey takes travelers through diverse landscapes, from rugged mountains to coastal plains. The distance can be covered in a 10-hour ride.

2. How to get from Ha Giang to Ha Long Bay?

2.1. By sleeper bus

It is possible to catch a sleeper bus from Ha Giang to Ha Long Bay. Some reputable bus companies that operate on this route include:

• The New Way: This company offers comfortable sleeper buses with affordable fares averaging 680,000 VND. The journey takes about 7.5 hours, and there are 3 rides on offer each day. 

• Daiichi Travel: This is another reliable company to consider. The average fare is 400,000 VND, which is ideal for travelers with a limited budget. However, there is only 1 ride each day. The travel duration is 11.5 hours. 
• Ngoc Cuong: This is also a trustworthy company for travelers. Its average fare is 400,000 VND, and again, there is only 1 ride per day. The travel duration is 10 hours.

Travel from Ha Giang to Ha Long Bay on a sleeper bus (Source: Collected)

Opting for a sleeper bus presents certain advantages. Firstly, these buses provide a cost-effective means of traveling, making them particularly appealing to budget-conscious travelers. Additionally, they offer a direct route between Ha Giang and Ha Long Bay, minimizing the need for multiple transfers and simplifying the overall journey. 

However, there are some drawbacks associated with sleeper bus travel. One notable concern is the length of the journey, which can be considerable, especially considering the potential for traffic jams. Furthermore, while sleeper buses aim to provide comfort, some passengers may find it challenging to sleep soundly. Onboard facilities such as restrooms and refreshments may also be limited compared to other means of transportation like trains or planes. 

2.2. By private car/motorbike

Traveling by private car or motorbike offers a sense of freedom and flexibility, allowing travelers to explore the stunning landscapes of Vietnam at their own pace. However, it’s essential to consider the distance, road conditions, and the physical demands of the journey.

The route covers a distance of nearly 500 kilometers, which translates to a minimum of 10 hours of continuous driving. Given the challenging terrain of Ha Giang, which is characterized by winding mountain roads and steep inclines, this means of transportation is best suited for experienced drivers with good physical capabilities.

Travel from Ha Giang to Ha Long Bay at your own pace with a private car or motorbike (Source: Collected)

3. Can you travel from Ha Giang to Ha Long Bay via Hanoi?

Hanoi serves as a major transportation hub in Northern Vietnam, connecting various areas of the country by road, rail, and air. The distance from Ha Giang to Hanoi is a bit over 300 kilometers, while the distance from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay is around 165 kilometers. 

3.1. From Ha Giang to Hanoi

The journey from Ha Giang to Hanoi typically takes around 6 – 8 hours, but this can vary depending on factors such as road conditions and traffic. For this route, the optimal means of transportation is sleeper bus. There are several reputable Ha Giang to Hanoi bus companies that offer reliable service. Here are some suggestions along with the average ticket prices for reference:

Instead of taking a Ha Giang to Ha Long Bay bus, go to Hanoi first (Source: Collected)

3.2. From Hanoi to Ha Long Bay

From Hanoi to Ha Long Bay, travelers have several transportation options:

• By shuttle bus: Many tour operators in Hanoi offer shuttle bus services to Ha Long Bay. These buses depart from designated pickup points in Hanoi and transport passengers directly to their accommodations in Ha Long Bay. The journey takes around 2.5 hours.

• By limousine bus: There are also regular limousine buses going between Hanoi and Ha Long Bay. These buses depart from designated pickup points in Hanoi and follow designated routes to Ha Long Bay. The travel time is similar to that of shuttle buses, averaging 2.5 hours.

• By motorbike/car: Travelers who prefer to explore independently can rent a motorbike or car in Hanoi and drive to Ha Long Bay. The journey takes approximately 3 hours, depending on traffic. This option allows travelers to make stops along the way to admire the scenery or visit attractions.
• By seaplane: For a unique experience, travelers can take a seaplane tour from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay. The flight takes only 45 minutes, so it is a convenient way to reach Ha Long Bay. However, it can be quite costly, ranging from 4,000,000 VND to 9,000,000 VND.

If you depart from Hanoi, consider the seaplane (Source: Collected)

*Note: These details are for reference purposes only and may be subject to change over time.

Discover: How to get to Ha Long Bay? A FULL guide for first-timers

4. Useful tips for your trip from Ha Giang to Ha Long Bay

• Tips for traveling by bus in Vietnam: 
  • Book tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons.
  • Arrive at the pickup points early to ensure a smooth departure.
  • Keep your belongings within sight during the journey.
• Packing tips:
  • Pack light, with essentials such as sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable clothing.
  • Carry a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout your journey.
  • Don’t forget to bring your camera or smartphone to capture the stunning scenery along the way.
• Ideal time to visit: The best time to visit Ha Long Bay is during summer and fall (from May to October), when Ha Long Bay weather is pleasant with minimal rainfall.
• Things to do in Ha Long Bay: There is no shortage of activities in Ha Long Bay, such as:
  • Exploring limestone caves such as Sung Sot Cave and Thien Cung Cave.
  • Embarking on a kayak adventure to discover hidden lagoons and secluded beaches.
  • Enjoying a leisurely cruise around the bay and admiring the picturesque landscapes.
  • Visiting floating villages to learn about the local way of life and enjoy fresh seafood.
• Where to stay in Ha Long Bay: Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long is a luxurious accommodation option offering world-class facilities and services. Guests can indulge in a range of amenities, including swimming pools, spa treatments, and fine dining. The resort provides a peaceful retreat amidst the natural beauty of Ha Long Bay, making it an ideal choice for a memorable stay.

Stay at Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long for a peaceful retreat

Book rooms in Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long

From the rugged peaks of Ha Giang to the limestone pillars of Ha Long Bay, each destination unveils a new chapter in Vietnam’s rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether you seek adventure amidst remote mountain passes or serenity amidst pristine waters, this odyssey from Ha Giang to Ha Long Bay through Northern Vietnam will surely leave an indelible mark on your memory.

After exploring Ha Long Bay, you can visit other popular destinations in Vietnam such as Hanoi, Hoi An, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc. In these destinations, take your time to explore the sprawling entertainment complexes of VinWonders. At VinWonders, you can enjoy thrilling games, immersive activities, and vibrant shows. Notably, the hotels and resorts of Vinpearl also stand ready in Hoi An, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc. As with the resort in Ha Long, these properties promise unforgettable stays.

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