January
16.1°C ~ 61°F
19 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
Ha Giang
Ma Pi Leng Pass
A narrow mountain road above the Nho Que River, with some of the most dramatic views in Vietnam.
- Time needed
- From 1 hour
- Entry fee
- Free
- Best months
- Sep – Nov
- Best time
- October – April, early morning for clear views
Overview
Ma Pi Leng is a 20 km mountain pass between Dong Van and Meo Vac, often called the king of the northern passes. The road clings to a cliff high above the Nho Que River and the deep Tu San Canyon, with sharp bends and wide views on both sides.
A viewpoint with a small cafe sits near the top of the pass, and it is the most popular stop on the Ha Giang Loop. The weather is often misty, so go early or late for clearer views, and take the bends slowly.
Highlights
- Drive the 20 km pass on the Ha Giang Loop
- See the Nho Que River and Tu San Canyon from above
- Stop for coffee at the viewpoint
- Take a boat trip on the river below
Visitor information
| Opening hours | Open all day |
|---|---|
| Entry fee | Free Viewpoint cafe: pay for drinks only |
| Time needed | 1 – 2 hours |
| Best time of day | October – April, early morning for clear views |
| Good for | Motorbikers, photographers, adventurers |
| Accessibility | A road with sharp bends; viewpoint steps are short |
| Facilities | Viewpoint cafe, toilets, small car park |
Prices and hours can change. Check the official source before you go.
Best time to visit
Weather in Ha Giang by month.
February
17.5°C ~ 64°F
18 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
March
20.9°C ~ 70°F
20 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
April
24.2°C ~ 76°F
20 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
May
26.4°C ~ 80°F
25 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
June
27.5°C ~ 82°F
27 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
July
27.9°C ~ 82°F
25 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
August
27.6°C ~ 82°F
25 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
September
26.9°C ~ 80°F
21 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
October
24.4°C ~ 76°F
15 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
November
20.8°C ~ 69°F
15 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
December
16.6°C ~ 62°F
14 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
How to get there
From Ha Giang centre
Ma Pi Leng is on the road between Dong Van and Meo Vac. Most visitors ride the Ha Giang Loop by motorbike or go with a driver from Ha Giang city, which takes about 2 hours to Dong Van.
Tips before you go
- Do not drive after dark, and watch for fog on the bends
- Go early for the clearest light and fewer people
- Brake early; the road is narrow with steep drops
- Hire an easy rider if you are not experienced
Location
Ma Pi Leng Pass, Meo Vac – Dong Van, Ha Giang
About 20 km from Dong Van town
More attractions in Ha Giang
FAQs
Is Ma Pi Leng Pass dangerous?
The road is narrow with sharp bends and drops, and fog is common. Ride slowly or hire a driver if you are not confident.
When is the best time to visit?
October to April have the clearest views. Autumn also has buckwheat flowers in the area.
Can I go without a motorbike?
Yes. Cars and private drivers cover the loop, and many tour companies offer group tours.