Foreign tourists, primarily from Europe, have been flocking to Du Gia Waterfall in Ha Giang Province, where they can jump from high rocks into the natural pool below.

Located in Tien village within Du Gia Commune, the waterfall is surrounded by untouched landscapes and six-meter-high cliffs that overlook a deep, green pool with water year-round, creating a breathtaking view.

Tourists eagerly line up to leap into the water at the base of Du Gia Waterfall.

Nguyen Thuat, a local tour guide who frequently takes foreign visitors to Ha Giang’s Dong Van Stone Plateau, noted a significant increase in visitors to the waterfall since early October. “I’ve taken 200 to 300 tourists there,” he shared. Many foreigners traveling to Ha Giang–Dong Van choose to stay overnight in Du Gia to maximize their time the next day.

Adventurous visitors often climb the cliffs, which range from 3.5 to six meters high, and dive into the deep waters below. Rochelle, a 32-year-old first-time visitor from France, described Du Gia as one of the most pristine waterfalls she has encountered in Vietnam, praising its clear waters and secluded location. “Jumping from the waterfall is an exhilarating experience, ideal for adventure seekers and nature lovers,” she said.

Thuat observed that while many domestic tourists visit scenic spots mainly for photography, Western travelers are more interested in immersive and adventurous experiences in local villages.

The surge in foreign visitors has significantly boosted the local economy, which had been severely affected by Typhoon Yagi in September. Nguyen Van Khuy, owner of Du Gia Panorama homestay, reported accommodating over 300 guests, mostly Western tourists, in the past month. Despite having a maximum capacity of 30 guests, he often arranges additional lodging at nearby homestays due to the influx.

To reach Du Gia Waterfall from Sapa, you can follow these steps:

  1. Travel from Sapa to Ha Giang:
    • By Bus: Take a bus from Sapa to Ha Giang city. Several companies operate this route, and the journey typically takes around 6-7 hours.
    • By Car: You can also hire a private car or taxi for a more comfortable and quicker trip.
  2. From Ha Giang to Du Gia Commune:
    • By Bus or Taxi: Once in Ha Giang city, you can take a local bus or taxi to Du Gia Commune, which is approximately 30-40 kilometers away. The journey takes about 1-1.5 hours.
  3. To Du Gia Waterfall:
    • After reaching Du Gia Commune, you may need to walk or take a motorbike to the waterfall, which is located about 1 kilometer from the main road.

To reach Du Gia Waterfall from Hanoi, you can follow these steps:

  1. Travel from Hanoi to Ha Giang City:
    • By Bus: Several bus services operate overnight trips from Hanoi to Ha Giang City. The journey usually takes about 6-8 hours. Buses typically leave from My Dinh bus station in Hanoi and arrive in Ha Giang early in the morning.
    • By Car: You can also hire a private car or taxi for a more comfortable and flexible travel option, though this may be more expensive than taking a bus.
  2. From Ha Giang City to Du Gia Commune:
    • By Local Bus or Taxi: From Ha Giang City, you can take a local bus or hire a taxi to Du Gia Commune. The distance is approximately 70 kilometers, and the journey can take around 2-3 hours depending on the mode of transport and road conditions.
  3. Final Leg to Du Gia Waterfall:
    • Once you reach Du Gia Commune, the waterfall is located nearby. You may need to walk or take a short motorbike ride to reach the exact location of the waterfall.

It’s a good idea to check transportation schedules in advance and consider hiring a local guide to enhance your experience and ensure a smooth journey.