When traveling between the Ha Giang Loop and Cao Bang most people spend a night in Bao Lac. Between Bao Lac and Cao Bang, the most direct route is the scenic QL34. The better option is the spectacular Me Pia Pass along the border with China. This route also brings you close to Pac Bo cave where Ho Chi Minh lived after his return from…
Between Mui Ne and Hue are not only some of the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam, you also have the remains of the Champa Kingdom. The Cham people ruled over this 1000 KM stretch from the 1st to the 15th centuries.
Just a few hours from Cao Bang along a magical road is Ban Gioc. The waterfalls are the border with 1/2 in China and 1/2 in Vietnam. Ban Gioc is the forth largest waterfall in the world along a national border. Located in the Trung Khan district of Cao Bang it a fascinating area with lovely valleys and kart mountains looking like huge drops of…
Between Meo Vac and Bao Lac there is a river crossing through a gorgeous valley on a bamboo ferry. By taking the northern route from Cao Bang to Ha Giang you will pass by this area. The steep approach and exit require dry weather or strong off-road skills.
I was fortunate to be able to explore the Meo Vac skywalk at dawn just after Covid reopening — an ethereal experience. The skywalk is a narrow trail that is mostly paved and serves as a way for people to move among the villages and homesteads in this mountainous area. They generally no longer allow tourists to ride on the Skywalk and it has been…
Video — A derelict French fort from their occupation in the late 19th century.
Video — The first leg of the Ha Giang loop. This is typically a 2-3 journey.
Video — I have seen many terraced rice fields, but i wasn’t prepared for the stunning terraced tea plantations in Lai Chau on the way to Sapa.
Video — Exploring back-roads en-route to Pu Luong I came across this lovely farm & cattle trail. A bit slippery and steep in some sections compelled me to go slow and enjoy the surroundings.
Video — A ride into the remote jungle between Khe Sanh and Phong Nha. One of the last pristine mountain forest roads available.