This trip to the northwest highlands of Mai Chau offers a balance of culture and adventure, set amongst some of northern Vietnam 's most stunning scenery. We spend 5 nights in ethnic minority villages, walking an average of 5 hours a day. We trek for four days through villages in the Mai Chau area and overnight in White Thai and Hmong villages where we have the opportunity to observe the lives of the minority peoples. From the mountainous region of Mai Chau, we travel back to the capital, Hanoi . Travelers who prefer to get off the beaten track often prefer Mai Chau to Sapa.
Day 1: Hanoi - Mai Chau - Hang Kia Village(L/D)
We leave Hanoi heading west to Hoa Binh Province. We climb towards the Mai Chau valley another two hours away stopping to take in the spectacular scenery. Following lunch in Mai Chau town we drive to the White Thai village of Sa Linh where we start a 2-hour trek to the village of Hang Kia. Our hosts this evening will be the H’mong people. Whilst enjoying their hospitality we learn a little about their way of life. Tonight’s accommodation will be basic although mattresses, bedding and mosquito nets are provided.
Day 2: Hang Kia - Van Village(B/L/D)
This morning we have a 4-5 hour trek to Van Village home of the White Thai people. The trek takes us through unforgettable scenery and provides us with an opportunity to witness rural life . Arriving in Van village by mid to late afternoon there will be time to take a stroll down to the nearby stream. Our hosts for this evening will treat us to a fine meal and stories of life in Van village. They will also share their home brewed rice wine and toast our good health and happiness.
Day 3: Van village - Xo Village(B/L/D)
We spend the morning strolling around the surrounding villages. We then return to Van for lunch. With lunch finished there will time for a short siesta or stroll down to the river before embarking on a 3hour walk to the village of Xo (pronounced Soh). Following dinner we have the chance for more cultural interaction before retiring for our second night in a stilt house.
Day 4: Xo village – Poong Cong Village(B/L/D)
Bidding farewell to our hosts we have a five-hour trek from Xo to Poong Cong village where we take lunch. The afternoon is free to wander around the picturesque Thai villages or maybe walk to Mai Chau town itself.
Day 5: Poong Cong Village - Nanh Village(B/L/D)
From Poong Cong we drive to the Da River, 30 minutes from Mai Chau town where we board our boat for a half an hour river cruise. From our drop off point we have a 2-hour trek to Nanh village, inhabited by the Zao people. Stopping for a picnic lunch on the way we arrive by mid to late afternoon for our fifth and final night in the villages.
Day 6: Mai Chau- Hanoi(B/L)
Departing the village at around 08:00 we retrace our steps back to the boat for a cruise back to meet with our waiting vehicle and the trip back to Hanoi. We will arrive back in Hanoi by approximately 13.00.
Accommodation offering in this trip: ( click to see hotel )
Tour Cost includes:
- Full transportation by private car or minibus
- Sightseeing fees
- Full meals B : Breakfast, L : Lunch , D : Dinner
- English or French speaking guide
- Stay home stay at village / Mai Chau Eco Lodge resort
Tour Cost excludes:
- Insurance; tips; personal expenses, emergency transfers.
Trip Summary :
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Where:
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Trip starts and ends in Hanoi;
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When:
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All year round;
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Grade:
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Moderate to Strenous;
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Accommodation:
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Home stays at traditional minority stilt houses.
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Transport:
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Private car or bus, public train, etc.;
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Meals:
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As indicated;
(B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
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