The Ha Giang Loop passes through Quan Ba, Yen Minh, Dong Van, Meo Vac, Ma Pi Leng Pass, and the Nho Que River, making it one of the most beautiful motorbike routes in Vietnam. (Following the 2025 reorganization of provincial administrative units, the former Ha Giang area is now part of Tuyen Quang Province, but the name “Ha Giang” remains widely used in the tourism industry.)
The first question most travelers ask is: should you drive yourself or ride pillion with an Easy Rider—a local driver who takes you throughout the journey?
Motorbike rental prices for self-driving in Ha Giang (reference)
| Motorbike type | Price/day |
|---|---|
| Underbone motorbike (Wave, Sirius, Jupiter) | VND 180,000–220,000 |
| Scooter (Vision, Air Blade) | VND 300,000–400,000 |
| Manual motorcycle (XR150, CB150…) | VND 450,000–600,000 |
For steep mountain roads, it is best to choose an underbone motorbike or manual motorcycle rather than a scooter, as they are easier to control when riding downhill for extended periods.
Easy Rider tour prices (reference)
Three-day, two-night Ha Giang Loop tours, which generally include round-trip transportation from Hanoi, homestays, meals, and entrance tickets, typically have two price levels: approximately VND 3.3 million per person for self-driving and approximately VND 4.2 million per person for traveling with an Easy Rider. Thus, the additional cost for an Easy Rider is about VND 300,000 per day.
Prices are based on service providers publicly listing rates for September 2026 and may vary by season (the buckwheat flower season in October–November is usually more expensive).
Comparison: Self-driving vs. Easy Rider
| Criteria | Self-driving | Easy Rider |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Lower | About VND 300,000 more per day |
| Freedom to stop and rest | Maximum | According to the itinerary, but you can still stop to take photos |
| Safety | Depends on your riding ability | The driver is familiar with mountain roads and weather conditions |
| Sightseeing | You must focus on riding | Relax, enjoy the scenery, and take photos |
| Documents | A valid driving licence is required | No driving licence is required |
| Suitable for | People with experience and confidence riding on mountain roads | Beginners, foreign travelers without a valid driving licence, and photography enthusiasts |
Choose an Easy Rider if
- You have never ridden on steep mountain roads or are only used to riding in the city.
- You are a foreign tourist without a valid driving licence in Vietnam (an international driving permit under the 1968 Convention together with your national driving licence).
- You are travelling during the rainy season (June–August): roads are more slippery and the risk of landslides is higher.
- You want to focus on taking photos and filming.
Border-area permits for foreign tourists
The districts along the route, such as Quản Bạ, Yên Minh, Đồng Văn and Mèo Vạc, include border areas. Foreign tourists often need a permit to enter border areas, with a fee of approximately VND 200,000–250,000. Most tourists arrange this through travel companies, homestays or guesthouses. Independent travellers should contact the immigration authorities or local police. Regulations may change, so check again before your trip.
Safety notes
- Do not drive after drinking corn wine, a popular speciality served at homestays.
- Do not cross mountain passes after dark or in heavy fog.
- Always wear a raincoat, gloves and closed-toe shoes.
- Check the brakes every morning before setting off.
Find an Easy Rider or rent a vehicle through Huongdanviendulich.vn
- Need an Easy Rider or tour guide: post a guide request and select the skill “Easy rider – motorbike and bicycle tour guide”.
- Only need to rent a vehicle: post a vehicle rental request and select “Self-drive motorbike”.
- Want to book a package including a vehicle, homestay and meals: post a tour request.
