Dong Van Mint Honey Ha Giang Tuyen Quang: Culinary Tours & Eco-Adventure Guide

A Sweet Essence of the Highlands

Dong Van Mint Honey, a prized delicacy of Ha Giang, Tuyen Quang Province, captivates food enthusiasts among the region’s 250,000 annual visitors within the UNESCO Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark. Harvested in Dong Van, Quan Ba, Yen Minh, and Meo Vac, 145 km northeast of Tuyen Quang City and 300 km from Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward, this organic honey costs $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND) per liter. Set in a cool highland climate (dry season: November–April, 10–22°C or 50–71.6°F; rainy season: May–October, 18–28°C or 64.4–82.4°F), it’s a must for culinary explorers.

Derived from wild mint flowers blooming across rocky slopes, this honey’s distinct aroma and health benefits, like aiding respiratory and digestive health, make it a cultural and economic treasure for Hmong and Tay communities. Sustainable beekeeping, local markets, and eco-friendly homestays align with Tuyen Quang’s “Green Highlands” initiative, enhancing tourism value. Legend Travel Group’s sustainable tours guide you through this sweet journey, ensuring a green, authentic experience. Register an account with us to follow our guides and book via the links throughout this article or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com

Administrative Update

Vietnam’s administrative restructuring merged Ha Giang Province into Tuyen Quang Province, reclassifying Ha Giang and Dong Van as wards under Tuyen Quang. Dong Van Mint Honey retains its fame under “Ha Giang, Tuyen Quang,” with updated maps simplifying navigation to its production hubs.

Legend Travel Group excels in sustainable Southeast Asia tourism, offering eco-friendly tours in Tuyen Quang tailored for food and culture enthusiasts. Our low-impact tours use electric vans or bicycles, led by English-speaking Hmong guides sharing mint honey’s heritage, beekeeping traditions, and green practices. Supporting local beekeepers, we align with Tuyen Quang’s sustainability goals. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, planning is seamless. Sign up for an account to track our travel guides and book eco-tours via the links on this page to savor Dong Van Mint Honey responsibly!

Dong Van Mint Honey, produced in Ha Giang, Tuyen Quang, is a 100% organic specialty from wild mint flowers blooming October to January across Dong Van’s rocky slopes. Known for its golden hue, soothing sweetness, and minty aroma, it’s harvested by Hmong and Tay beekeepers, supporting local economies and poverty reduction. Rich in antioxidants, it aids respiratory and digestive health, making it a sought-after product at markets like Dong Van’s Sunday fair. Sustainable practices, including natural beekeeping and biodegradable packaging, preserve the geopark’s ecology, making this honey a cultural icon 300 km from Hanoi.

These eco-friendly activities, costing $0–$10, immerse you in highland culture:

1. Taste Mint Honey at Dong Van Market

Sample mint honey at Dong Van’s Sunday market, best at 7:00 AM, for $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND) per tasting, paired with Shan Tuyet tea.

• Cost: $1–$2.

• Hours: Sundays, 5:00 AM–12:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Use reusable containers; support local beekeepers.

• Tip: Try with buckwheat cakes; included in Legend Travel Group’s Ha Giang Culinary Tour ($60–$90).

2. Join a Beekeeping Tour

Participate in a beekeeping experience in Quan Ba, best at 9:00 AM, for $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND), learning honey harvesting with Hmong locals.

• Cost: $5–$10.

• Hours: October–January, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Respect hives; support sustainable apiculture.

• Tip: Wear protective gear; included in Legend Travel Group’s Ha Giang Eco-Tour ($70–$100).

3. Buy Mint Honey as a Souvenir

Purchase authentic mint honey at Meo Vac markets, best at 8:00 AM, for $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND) per liter, with guided shopping at $3–$5.

• Cost: $5–$10; guided tours $3–$5.

• Hours: Sundays, 6:00 AM–12:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Choose eco-friendly packaging; support artisans.

• Tip: Verify authenticity; included in Legend Travel Group’s Ha Giang Cultural Tour ($60–$90).

4. Photograph Mint Flower Fields

Capture purple mint flower fields in Yen Minh, best at 6:00 AM, free, with guided photo tours at $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND) for optimal angles.

• Cost: Free; guided tours $3–$5.

• Hours: October–January, 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Avoid trampling flowers; use reusable bottles.

• Tip: Use a 50–200mm lens; included in Legend Travel Group’s Ha Giang Eco-Tour ($70–$100).

5. Stay in a Hmong Homestay

Overnight in a Dong Van Hmong homestay, best booked for 5:00 PM, for $12–$20 (300,000–500,000 VND), enjoying mint honey tea and stories.

• Cost: $12–$20.

• Hours: Check-in 2:00 PM; check-out 11:00 AM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Supports Hmong families; uses solar energy.

• Tip: Register with Legend Travel Group for cultural activities; included in Dong Van Overnight Eco-Tour ($100–$150).

Visit from October to January for the mint flower bloom (10–22°C or 50–71.6°F), ideal for beekeeping tours and vibrant markets, with 1,000–2,000 visitors on Sundays. November–April offers dry weather for comfortable exploration, while May–October (18–28°C) is wetter but quieter (500–1,000 visitors). Early mornings (5:00–8:00 AM) are best for market visits, while afternoons (2:00–5:00 PM) suit field tours. Avoid Tet (January/February) for fewer crowds.

Dong Van, in Ha Giang, Tuyen Quang, is 300 km from Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward, reachable in 6–7 hours:

• By Private Car: Drive 6 hours via Highway 2, costing $80–$120 (2,000,000–3,000,000 VND) round-trip for 4 people. Book via Legend Travel Group.

• By Electric Taxi (Xanh SM): Eco-friendly VinFast taxis, 6–7 hours, $70–$100 (1,750,000–2,500,000 VND) one-way; $140–$200 (3,500,000–5,000,000 VND) round-trip. Use Xanh SM app.

• By Private Motorcycle: Ride via Highway 2C, 6–7 hours, $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND) fuel; rental $8–$15/day (200,000–375,000 VND). Helmets mandatory (fines up to $40 or 1,000,000 VND).

• By Public Bus: Bus from My Dinh to Tuyen Quang City (3 hours, $5 or 125,000 VND), then Ha Giang City to Dong Van (3–4 hours, $7–$10 or 175,000–250,000 VND), totaling $24–$30 (600,000–750,000 VND) round-trip.

• By Private Tour Bus (Legend Travel Group): Group bus from Hanoi, 6 hours, $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND)/person for 15+ people, including guide.

• From Noi Bai Airport: Private car ($100–$140 or 2,500,000–3,500,000 VND, 7–8 hours, 320 km); Xanh SM taxi ($90–$120 or 2,250,000–3,000,000 VND); or Airport Bus No. 86 to Hanoi ($1.40 or 35,000 VND, 50–60 min) + private car ($80–$100 or 2,000,000–2,500,000 VND). Navigation Tip: Save “Dong Van, Ha Giang, Tuyen Quang” in offline maps (Maps.me); follow signs from Ha Giang City. Parking: $0.80–$1.50 (20,000–37,500 VND).

• Eco-Friendly Note: Xanh SM taxis or group buses reduce emissions; avoid off-road biking.

• Safety: Wear helmets on motorcycles; secure valuables. Confirm fares for taxis/buses.

Pack these essentials for a sustainable visit:

• Clothing: Light layers, comfortable shoes; waterproof jacket ($3–$7 or 75,000–175,000 VND) for rainy season; scarf for cool mornings.

• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses.

• Travel Essentials: Reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($2–$5), mosquito repellent ($0.50 or 12,500 VND), hand sanitizer ($0.50).

• Tech Gear: Smartphone with Grab/Xanh SM apps, offline maps, portable charger; Vietnamese SIM card ($5–$10).

• Culinary Gear: Small backpack, reusable container for honey ($1–$2), camera for field shots.

• Documents: Passport copy, travel insurance, VND (10,000–50,000 notes).

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote for purchases; biodegradable wipes.

• Extras: Snacks for market visits; cash for small vendors.
  Tip: Carry small VND notes for honey ($5–$10), food ($0.50–$2), or tours ($3–$10); secure valuables at markets.

Costs for Dong Van Mint Honey Experiences

Entry and Activity Fees

• Market Entry: Free.

• Mint Honey Tasting: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).

• Mint Honey Purchase: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND)/liter.

• Beekeeping Tour: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Guided Cultural/Photo Tours: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND).

• Drinks (Water, Tea): $0.30–$1 (7,000–25,000 VND).

• Souvenirs (e.g., Hmong Crafts): $3–$10 (75,000–250,000 VND).

• Homestay: $12–$20/night (300,000–500,000 VND).

• Guided Eco-Tour: $20–$40 (500,000–1,000,000 VND).

Transportation (Round-Trip, from Hanoi)

• Private Car: $80–$120 (2,000,000–3,000,000 VND).

• Xanh SM Electric Taxi: $140–$200 (3,500,000–5,000,000 VND).

• Private Motorcycle: $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND) fuel; rental $8–$15/day.

• Public Bus: $24–$30 (600,000–750,000 VND).

• Private Tour Bus: $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND)/person.

• Airport to Dong Van: $100–$140 (2,500,000–3,500,000 VND).

• Parking: $0.80–$1.50 (20,000–37,500 VND).

• SIM Card: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost (Per Person)

• Budget: $10–$20 (bus, tasting, snacks).

• Mid-range: $30–$60 (private car, beekeeping tour, homestay).

• Luxury: $80–$120 (Xanh SM taxi, premium tour, homestay).
  Tip: Budget for honey ($5–$10), tours ($3–$40), and transport ($20–$200); carry cash for vendors (no cards accepted).

• Timing: Visit October–January for mint flower blooms (5:00–8:00 AM for markets; 9:00 AM–4:00 PM for beekeeping). November–April for dry weather. Weekdays for fewer crowds (500–1,000 vs. 2,000+ on Sundays). Avoid Tet for quieter visits.

• Booking: No market entry fee; reserve Legend Travel Group’s tours 24–48 hours ahead for guided beekeeping or homestays. Book in Dong Van or Ha Giang City.

• Sustainability: Use reusable containers; support Hmong beekeepers for honey ($5–$10) or crafts ($3–$10). Respect fields to preserve ecology.

• Navigation: Save “Dong Van, Ha Giang, Tuyen Quang” in offline maps; ask locals in Dong Van for market directions. Avoid night travel on mountain roads.

• Safety: Secure valuables at markets; confirm fares for taxis/buses. Carry a flashlight for early mornings.

• Weather: Dry season for comfortable visits; rainy season needs rain gear ($3–$7) and waterproof bags ($3–$7). Check AccuWeather.

• Cultural Respect: Dress modestly at markets (cover shoulders/knees); say “xin chào” to locals. Respect beekeeping traditions; avoid disturbing hives.

• Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50); carry mosquito repellent and hand sanitizer.

Our eco-friendly tours showcase Dong Van Mint Honey’s allure:

• Ha Giang Culinary Tour ($60–$90/person, 1 day): Dong Van market, mint honey tasting, Hmong lunch ($0.50–$2). Includes guide, transport.

• Ha Giang Eco-Tour ($70–$100/person, 2 days): Mint flower fields, beekeeping tour, Hmong homestay ($12–$20/night). Includes meals, guide.

• Tuyen Quang & Cao Bang Immersion ($300–$450/person, 4 days): Mint honey experiences, Ban Gioc Waterfall, ethnic homestays. Includes meals, eco-transfers. Prices include guides, eco-transfers, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Sign up for an account to follow our guides and book now via links!

Dong Van Mint Honey in Ha Giang, Tuyen Quang, priced at $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND) per liter, captivates food lovers among 250,000 yearly visitors, 300 km from Hanoi. Harvested from wild mint flowers, its sweet, medicinal essence, paired with sustainable beekeeping, shines at Dong Van markets. Legend Travel Group’s Tuyen Quang Tours guide you through this highland delicacy, ensuring a sustainable Tuyen Quang Travel experience filled with green exploration. Whether tasting honey or joining beekeeping tours, Dong Van promises an unforgettable Tuyen Quang adventure. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-adventure today!
Ready to savor Dong Van Mint Honey in Ha Giang, Tuyen Quang? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable culinary journey!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.