Ha Giang is not only famous for the treacherous Ma Pi Leng Pass but also boasts another magnificent natural wonder: the Nho Que River. The emerald green river winding at the foot of Tu San Canyon creates a picturesque landscape that amazes every visitor. If you are planning to explore this beauty by boat, don’t miss these detailed tips for a complete and memorable journey.
Discover Nho Que River: A Masterpiece in Ha Giang
The Nho Que River, a branch of the Gam River, originates from China and flows into Vietnam, forming a natural border section. However, the most well-known and captivating part of the Nho Que River is the 3.5km stretch flowing through Tu San Canyon, located on the road from Dong Van to Meo Vac, about 20km from Dong Van Old Quarter. This place promises unforgettable experiences:
- Admire the majestic beauty: Boating on the Nho Que River, you will admire Tu San Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in Southeast Asia, with towering cliffs.
- Immerse yourself in emerald waters: The characteristic turquoise water of the Nho Que River will make you feel like you are lost in another world, separated from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
- Enjoy the natural scenery: During the kapok flower season (late February, early March), both sides of the river are adorned with the bright red color of kapok flowers, creating an incredibly romantic scene.
- Meet local residents: You may have the chance to encounter wild monkeys living around Tu San Canyon coming down to drink water in the early morning or late afternoon.
- Capture “Instagrammable” photos: Surely, with such beautiful natural scenery, you will have countless stunning “Instagrammable” photo opportunities to show off to your friends.
Emerald green Nho Que River winding at the foot of Tu San Canyon
Detailed Guide for Nho Que River Boat Trip
Getting to Nho Que River Boat Dock
Currently, not many travel companies offer boat tours on the Nho Que River. The best way is to travel by motorbike or car on your own.
- From Dong Van Old Quarter: Follow QL4C towards Ma Pi Leng – Meo Vac.
- Go about 16.6km: You will see a sign to Xin Cai, turn left.
- Continue for 3.4km: Look for a house with a small Vinaphone sign and a blue sign “Đường xuống bến thuyền Nho Quế” (Road to Nho Que Boat Dock). Park your vehicle here. (You can search for this location on Google Maps with the keyword “Bến thuyền sông Nho Quế”).
Sign indicating the left turn to Xin Cai from QL4C to reach Nho Que River boat dock
House with Vinaphone sign and direction sign to Nho Que boat dock
Important Note: After parking, you will have to walk about 1.5km down a staircase to the boat dock. This section is quite steep and takes about 30 minutes of trekking. Please prepare your health well before going.
Staircase leading down to Nho Que River boat dock, requiring good physical preparation
Nho Que River Boat Contact Numbers
To be proactive, you should contact the boat owners in advance to book a schedule, especially during peak season. Here are some phone numbers you can refer to:
- 037 549 1072 (Mr. Chuong)
- 032 610 4862 (Mr. Loi)
- 0963 688 308
- 0345 234 624
Reference Boat Rental Prices
Boat rental prices may vary depending on the number of people and time. According to many people’s experiences, the price for renting a whole boat (for 2 people) is around 300,000 VND. If you go in a larger group, the price may be 100,000 VND/person. You should contact the boat owner in advance to negotiate the most reasonable price.
Important Notes When Boating on Nho Que River
- Safety first: As this service is not officially licensed, you need to take responsibility for your own safety. Always wear a life jacket throughout the journey, even if you know how to swim.
- Check the weather: Avoid boating on days with heavy rain or when there are warnings about bad weather.
- Prepare your health: The walk down to the boat dock is quite steep and tiring, so prepare your health well before going.
- Sightseeing time: The boat trip through Tu San Canyon and back takes only about 30 minutes. Don’t expect too much sightseeing time.
- Find out information: Call in advance to ask for information and book a boat, to avoid arriving and finding no boats available or encountering river closure days.
- Respect nature: Do not litter indiscriminately, maintain general hygiene to protect the natural landscape of the Nho Que River.
Majestic Tu San Canyon viewed from a boat on the Nho Que River
Conclusion
Boating on the Nho Que River is a wonderful experience that you should not miss when visiting Ha Giang. With these detailed tips, hopefully, you will have a fun and memorable trip. Don’t forget to share your beautiful moments on the Nho Que River with everyone! Are you ready for your journey to explore the majestic Tu San Canyon?