Mai Chau and Pu Luong are two regions in the northwest of Vietnam, about 150 kilometers from Hanoi. They are ideal destinations for travelers who love nature, culture, and adventure. Mai Chau and Pu Luong offer stunning views of green valleys, rice terraces, and mountains, where you can find various ethnic minorities living in traditional stilt houses.
You can explore the area by cycling, trekking, or motorbiking, and discover the local customs, crafts, cuisine, and hospitality. You can also visit the Pu Luong Nature Reserve, a protected area with rich biodiversity and amazing landscapes. Mai Chau and Pu Luong are perfect places to experience the rural charm and diversity of Vietnam.
Day 1 – HANOI – MAI CHAU – PU LUONG
Start your day by departing from your Hanoi hotel at 8:00 AM, embarking on an extraordinary 4-hour journey to Mai Chau. Upon reaching Poom Coom village in Mai Chau, we’ll take a brief stroll to visit the ethnic Thai community before enjoying a delicious lunch.
At 1:00 PM, we’ll take a short one-hour car ride before commencing our hike through the enchanting Pu Luong nature reserve. The trek is of intermediate level, involving some uphill walking, but the breathtaking views of villages and terraced landscapes make it a rewarding experience.
By late afternoon, we’ll arrive at the Thai stilt homestay. You’ll have some free time to rest and freshen up before relishing in a traditional dinner hosted by our welcoming local family. Overnight stay will be at this cozy homestay.
Driving Distance: about 230 km
Trekking Distance: about 9 km (3 hours)
Trail Difficulty: 3/5
Inclusion: Transfer, guide, entrance fee, lunch, dinner, water, homestay with permit.
Day 2 – HIDDEN TRAILS OF PU LUONG
It is recommended to wake up early today to have the opportunity to observe authentic local activities in the morning. After enjoying our breakfast, we bid farewell to our hospitable host at approximately 8:00 AM, as we prepare for an exciting hike ahead.
Today’s trek will take us through the hidden treasures of Pu Luong, revealing magnificent valley views, picturesque terraced fields, and serene villages. We will pause for a delightful picnic lunch before continuing our journey through more charming villages until we reach Hieu village in the afternoon.
You will have time to rest as you wish and then have the freedom to explore the village, engage with the friendly locals, and visit the nearby stunning waterfall. We’ll return to the homestay for a delicious dinner, followed by an overnight stay. If you prefer to stay at an Eco lodge in Hieu village instead of a homestay, kindly get in touch with us for arrangements.
Trekking Distance: about 12 km (5 – 6 hours)
Trail Difficulty: 3/5
Inclusion: Guide, entrance fee, water, all meals, homestay with permit.
Day 3 – HIEU VILLAGE – PHO DOAN – HANOI
Make the most of your final day at this enchanting nature reserve, surrounded by welcoming villagers. Utilize this opportunity to venture out and explore the village independently or with the assistance of our guide. Later, we will embark on a leisurely 1.5-hour stroll to the nearby town within the reserve, where our van will be ready to transport us.
Afterward, we will enjoy a delightful lunch at one of the charming local restaurants before embarking on a picturesque drive back to Hanoi. Our journey will conclude as we return to your hotel around 5:00 PM.
Driving Distance: about 235 km
Trekking Distance: 8 km
Trail Difficulty: 2/5
Inclusion: Transfer, guide, entrance fee, water, breakfast, lunch.