The Cao Bang West Loop itinerary is an emerging alternative to the more famous Ban Gioc (east) route. Instead of heading straight to the waterfall, this loop turns west and northwest of Cao Bang City, linking remote valleys, dramatic mountain passes like Me Pia Pass, the rugged Bao Lac area, and the high-altitude forests of Phia Oac – Phia Den National Park.
This route suits travelers who prefer quieter roads, wild scenery and small ethnic minority villages over crowded highlights. The loop can be done in 3–4 days by motorbike or car, starting and ending in Cao Bang City.
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Overview of the Cao Bang West Loop
The Cao Bang West Loop is a circular route that:
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Starts and ends in Cao Bang City
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Heads west and northwest toward Bao Lac near the Ha Giang border
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Passes famous hairpin bends at Me Pia Pass
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Turns south or southeast to the high forests of Phia Oac – Phia Den National Park
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Returns to Cao Bang City via smaller backroads
Total distance typically ranges between 250–350 km, depending on side trips. Most riders complete this Cao Bang West Loop itinerary in 3 days by motorbike or private car, though adding a fourth day allows a more relaxed pace and extra sightseeing.
This loop is best suited for confident motorbike riders or travelers hiring a local driver, as several sections are steep, narrow and winding.
Suggested 3-Day Cao Bang West Loop Itinerary
Day 1: Cao Bang City → Me Pia Pass → Bao Lac
Morning: Cao Bang City to the mountains
Leave Cao Bang City after breakfast, following the main road heading west. The ride quickly leaves urban traffic behind, entering landscapes of limestone karst peaks, rivers and traditional stilt houses. There are many photo opportunities along the way, so plan extra time for short breaks.
Midday: Me Pia Pass view
The first major highlight of the Cao Bang West Loop itinerary is Me Pia Pass – a famously steep mountain pass with a series of tight hairpin bends stacked above each other. From a viewpoint on a nearby hill, you can see the entire “snake” of road curling down the mountainside.
Reaching the viewpoint usually requires a short hike from the roadside, but the panorama makes the effort worthwhile. Take care when riding this stretch: go slowly, keep to your lane and consider traveling with an experienced local driver if you are unsure.
Afternoon: Arrival in Bao Lac
Continue toward Bao Lac, a small town that functions as a gateway between Cao Bang and Ha Giang. Check into a local guesthouse or homestay.
If time allows, explore Bao Lac on foot:
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Visit the town market, where ethnic minorities such as Tay, Nung and H’Mong come to trade.
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Try simple local dishes in small eateries.
Overnight: Bao Lac (guesthouse or homestay).
Day 2: Bao Lac → Phia Oac – Phia Den National Park
Morning: Rural valleys and village life
From Bao Lac, ride southeast toward Phia Oac – Phia Den. The road passes through remote valleys where life moves slowly: corn fields on slopes, children walking to school, farmers working with buffalo.
You can stop in small villages along the way to take photos and, if invited, observe daily life. Always ask before taking close-up portraits and be respectful of local customs.
Midday: Climbing into the highlands
As you get closer to Phia Oac, the landscape changes. The air becomes cooler, the road climbs higher, and farmland gives way to pine forests and dense greenery.
Phia Oac – Phia Den is known for:
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Misty, atmospheric forests
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Cool temperatures even in the hot season
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Occasional cloud inversions, making it a good spot for cloud hunting
Afternoon: Short hikes and viewpoints
Spend the afternoon exploring:
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Short walks along forest trails
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Roadside viewpoints with sweeping views of layered mountains
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Quiet side roads leading to small settlements and farms
This is one of the most peaceful sections of the Cao Bang West Loop itinerary, ideal for slow travel and photography.
Overnight: Simple lodge, guesthouse or homestay in or near Phia Oac – Phia Den.
Day 3: Phia Oac → Cao Bang City
Morning: Descent from Phia Oac
After breakfast, begin descending back toward Cao Bang City. The route winds through rural communities once more, with opportunities to stop for tea or coffee in local shops.
Optional detours (time and energy permitting):
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Small waterfalls or streams along the way
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Short walks up nearby hills for final views of the region
Afternoon: Return to Cao Bang City
Arrive back in Cao Bang City by mid or late afternoon. Use the remaining time to:
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Visit the local market
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Try regional dishes such as sour bamboo shoot hotpot or local grilled meats
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Prepare for onward travel to Hanoi, Ha Giang or Lang Son
Overnight: Cao Bang City, or continue by night bus to your next destination.
4-Day Cao Bang West Loop Itinerary (Extended Version)
Travelers with more time can expand the Cao Bang West Loop itinerary into four days, either by slowing the pace or adding extra stops. Two common options are:
Option A – Slower pace
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Day 1: Cao Bang City → Me Pia Pass → Bao Lac
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Day 2: Extra day around Bao Lac (visit surrounding valleys and minority villages)
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Day 3: Bao Lac → Phia Oac – Phia Den
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Day 4: Phia Oac → Cao Bang City
Option B – Historical extension
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Day 1: Cao Bang City → Me Pia Pass → Bao Lac
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Day 2: Bao Lac → Phia Oac – Phia Den
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Day 3: Phia Oac → Cao Bang City → nearby historical sites (e.g. Pac Bo area if you add more riding)
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Day 4: Free morning in Cao Bang City, then onward travel
The 4-day version gives more time for walks, photography, village visits and rest, especially if you prefer shorter riding days.
Practical Tips for the Cao Bang West Loop
Riding difficulty
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The route includes steep gradients, tight curves and sections without guardrails.
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It is best for confident riders; beginners should strongly consider going with a local driver or joining a tour.
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Avoid riding after dark, especially on mountain passes.
Best time to travel
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September to November: Clearer skies, harvest colors and stable weather.
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March to May: Lush green valleys and comfortable temperatures.
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Winter (Dec–Feb): Can be cold and foggy in Phia Oac; bring warm layers and ride carefully.
Accommodation
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Cao Bang City: A range of hotels, hostels and guesthouses.
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Bao Lac: Modest guesthouses and a few homestays.
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Phia Oac – Phia Den: Basic lodges and homestays; book ahead in busy seasons.
Food, fuel and navigation
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Refuel whenever you see a petrol station; distances can be long between towns.
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Local eateries serve simple rice, noodle and meat dishes; carry snacks for remote stretches.
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Offline maps (downloaded in advance) are recommended, as mobile coverage can drop in valleys and on high passes.
Combining the West Loop with the East (Ban Gioc) Loop
For a complete exploration of the province, many travelers combine:
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The East Loop to Ban Gioc Waterfall, Nguom Ngao Cave and surrounding valleys
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The Cao Bang West Loop itinerary to Me Pia Pass, Bao Lac and Phia Oac – Phia Den
Doing both loops over a week or more provides a balanced mix of famous landmarks and remote, less-visited regions, showcasing the full diversity of Cao Bang’s landscapes and cultures.
Conclusion
The Cao Bang West Loop itinerary is a rewarding choice for travelers seeking a quieter, more adventurous alternative to the usual tourist routes in northern Vietnam. With its hairpin passes, misty highlands and authentic village life, this loop offers a raw, scenic side of Cao Bang that still feels off the beaten path.
Whether you ride it in three days or stretch it to four, careful planning around road conditions, weather and accommodation will help you enjoy this wild corner of Vietnam safely and fully.
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