Day 1 Hanoi - Mai Chau - Pu Luong. Depart from your Hanoi hotel at 8:00 AM transferring to Mai Chau on our spectacular 4 hour drive. Upon arrival at Poom Coom village in. Mai Chau, we take a short walk to visit the ethnic Thai people then lunch is served. At 1:00 PM, take a short car ride in about 1 hour before we set off for our hiking through MAI CHAU - PU LUONG (6D5N) Northern Vietnam has long attracted adventurers in awe of its vistas. Those wild roads cut through the forest has caught the attention of cycling adventurers all around the world and still going to amaze anyone set their foot on it. Pu Luong (Pù Luông) is located on the cusp of Hoa Binh and Thanh Hoa provinces, about 160km southwest of Hanoi. It's a popular weekend getaway for locals, but sees relatively few foreign visitors. This makes a nice change from the nearby and wildly popular Mai Chau, which is overrun with tourists at this time of year. The Pu Luong Nature Reserve lies within the Ba Thuoc and Quan Hoa District region, 130 km to the northwest of Thanh Hoa, Vietnam. 25km from Cuc Phuong National Park, Pu Luong is linked with the park by two parallel grey limestone mountain ranges. Between them are rice valleys. The attraction borders Mai Chau, Tan Lac, and Lac Son in Hoa Binh Explore Hanoi's Southwestern mountainous area within this overland trip through the beautiful valley of Mai Chau, Pu Luong Natural Reserve, and the "Dry Ha Long Bay" in Ninh Binh. Day 1 Hanoi- Mai Chau (-/L/D) Day 2 Mai Chau- Pu Luong Nature Reserve (B/L/D) Day 3 Pu Luong Nature Reserve (B/L/D) Day 4 Pù Luông được biết đến một khu rừng hoang sơ của hệ sinh thái núi đá vôi được trải dài từ Mai Châu tỉnh Hòa Bình nối với Khu Bảo tồn thiên nhiên Ngọc Sơn và Vườn quốc gia Cúc Phương tạo thành liên khu sinh cảnh đá vôi Pù Luông Cúc Phương, là mẫu quan trọng mang Hanoi - Mai Chau - Pu Luong Tours - 3 Days. Duration: 3 days 2 nights. Route: Hanoi - Mai Chau - Pu Luong - Hanoi. Located in the two districts of Quan Hoa and Ba Thuoc in Thanh Hoa Province, Pu Luong Natural Reserve has preserved a primitive landscape, plentiful, diversified flora, and fauna. With the above natural values, it has now • Mức ăn: 4 bữa chính x 230.000/ suất tại Pù Luông Retreat, 1 bữa trưa tại Mai Châu 150.000/ suất, 02 bữa sáng tại Pù Luông Retreat. • Xe ô tô 29 chỗ ( 2 xe) điều hòa chất lượng cao đưa đón suốt hành trình tour. • Vé vào tham quan các điểm theo hành trình. • Bảo hiểm Du lịch suốt tuyến. • Nước khoáng lavie 1 chai/người/ngày Vay Nhanh Fast Money. HanoiMai ChauPuluong Hors des sentiers battus À partir de Votre circuit complet Mai Chau – Pu Luong allie randonnées pédestres dans des paysages à couper le souffle, balades à vélo à travers les rizières et les villages Thaïs, diner et nuits chez l’habitant afin de mieux apprendre sur les us et coutumes des ethnies. Circuit Mai Chau - Pu Luong Hors des sentiers battus À partir de Quelles expériences vivrez-vous pendant votre voyage ? Balade à vélo à travers les rizières et les villages Thaïs pour un aperçu de leur culture et vie quotidienne. Diner et nuit chez l’habitant au village de Nhot, à Mai Chau. Trek Pu Luong à travers de beaux villages situés sur le flanc des collines, entourés de magnifiques rizières, observation des roues à eau en bambou fabriquées à la main. Nuit chez l’habitant ou nuit dans un bungalow au Pu Luong Retreat lors de votre circuit Mai Chau Pu Luong depuis Hanoi. Circuit privé avec des visites et prestations sur mesure. Les étapes du voyageHanoiMai ChauPuluong Jour 1 Hanoi – Mai Chau 150 km ≈ heures de route Départ pour votre circuit Mai Chau - Pu Luong. Accueil par le guide de Vietnam Découverte à votre hôtel puis départ en direction Mai Chau. Arrêt en cours de route au village Giang Mo abritant plusieurs maisons sur pilotis. Balade à pied autour du village, rencontre avec des Muong, ceux qui étaient connus pour leur pratique de l’agriculture sur brûlis. Continuation de la route pour Mai Chau, vallée verdoyante peuplée par les minorités Thaïs. Halte en chemin au sommet d’un col surplombant la vallée point d’observation sur les immenses tapis de rizières parsemés de villages et de maisons traditionnelles, les monts couverts de forêts de bambou… paysages typiques du coin ! À l’arrivée, marche à pied ou balade à vélo à travers les rizières et les villages Thaïs pour un aperçu de leur culture et vie quotidienne. Fin de la journée, installation chez Hao, une famille Thaï au village Nhot. Accueil par vos hôtes puis temps libre pour votre repos. Le soir, dîner avec la famille, nuit dans une maison sur pilotis lors de votre circuit Mai Chau - Pu Luong. Jour 2 Mai Chau – Pu Luong Le matin, continuation de votre circuit Mai Chau - Pu Luong par une balade à vélo à travers les rizières et les villages Thaïs. Visite du marché local à Mai Chau. Après-midi, transfert à l’entrée de Pu Luong pour rejoindre le point de départ du trek Pu Luong. Marche facile pendant 2-3 heures à travers de beaux villages situés sur le flanc des collines, entourés de magnifiques rizières, observation des roues à eau en bambou fabriquées à la main. Option 1 Fin de la journée, installation chez une famille Thaï blanc au village Hang. Le soir, dîner avec la famille, dégustation de Ruou Can» – vin local fabriqué à base de riz gluant fermenté. Nuit dans une maison sur pilotis. Option 2 Fin de la journée du trek Pu Luong, nuit de détente dans un bungalow au Pu Luong Retreat. Jour 3 Pu Luong – Hanoi Balade à pied autour du village. Observation des activités quotidiennes des habitants locaux. Salutations à nos hôtes pour le départ de la randonnée. Le chemin traverse des magnifiques paysages rizières en terrasse, forêts tropicales et cours d’eau. Arrêt au village Eo Ken pour le déjeuner. C’est l’occasion de découvrir leurs cultures saisonnières et leurs coutumes ancestrales. Vous serez accueillis avec de grands sourires. Après-midi, retour à Hanoi. Dépose à votre hôtel. Fin de votre circuit Mai Chau Pu Luong. Fin de nos prestations ! Prix du voyage -par personneCe prix affiché est hors des vols internationaux et calculé sur la base de 6 personnes avec les hôtels standards. Vietnam Découverte vous propose des voyages privés avec des prestations sur-mesure. Le prix varie donc selon la période du voyage, la catégorie des prestations choisie et surtout le nombre des voyageurs. Merci de bien vouloir nous contacter pour obtenir le programme détaillé et son prix ainsi que les prestations proposées pour votre voyage. Le prix inclut Hébergement pour tout le circuit, dans les hôtels ou chez l’habitant Déplacements selon le programme en voiture privatisée Guide francophone pour les visites mentionnées dans le programme Toutes les activités mentionnées dans le programme incluant les frais d’entrée des sites touristiques Vols domestiques en classe économique avec les taxes d'aéroport incluses Repas mentionnés dans le programme Bouteille d’eau pendant les visites guidées 2 x 500ml/ voyageur/ jour Taxes gouvernementales actuellement en vigueur TVA, etc... Le prix exclut Vols internationaux depuis chez vous Frais de visa, à payer directement à la douane à l’aéroport Voir VISA Les frais bancaires liés au paiement Assurances personnelles Boissons personnelles pendant les repas bière, coca-cola, jus de fruit… Les autres repas non mentionnés dans le programme La carte SIM et les forfaits mobiles Pourboires, dépenses personnelles et autres services non clairement mentionnés dans la rubrique Nos prestations incluent » Prestations pour ce voyage Hébergements Mai Chau Chez l'habitant Mai Chau Pu Luong Chez l'habitant Pu Luong Pu Luong Pu Luong Retreat Transports Voiture 7 places Voiture 16 places Équipement intérieur voiture Duong Thi LAN Conseillère en voyages Ce circuit vous intéresse ? Réponse rapide & pertinente sous 48h Devis gratuit sans aucune obligation Envie d'un voyage à la carte? 5 raisons pour partir avec Vietnam Découverte L’agence de 12 ans d’expériences ; plus de 4000 voyages organisés avec succès L’agence de taille humaine, gérée par un couple francophone Trung & Huyen DOAN L’équipe de conseillers et guides locaux parlant le francais, ceux-ci étant réactifs, compétents et toujours à votre écoute Des correspondants en France, Belgique, Canada étant prêts à vous donner des renseignements sur la préparation de votre voyage Une assistance 24/24 pendant le voyage sur place On parle de Vietnam DécouverteNos efforts pour satisfaire le mieux possible notre clientèle pendant des années sont reconnus par les plus prestigieux guides de voyage Routard, Lonely Planet, Petit Futé et TripAdvisor. Nos clients témoignentFamille LECASFrance27 Mai 2023 - Excellente expérience avec Vietnam découverte qui nous a proposé un circuit de 3 semaines en commençant par les sites d’Angkor au Cambodge pour finir au nord au Vietnam. Pendant la préparation du circuit, les échanges par mail ou whatsapp se sont avérés très faciles avec des réponses immédiates, claires et précises à la moindre question, ce qui a instauré un climat de confiance dès le départ qui ne s’est jamais démenti par la suite. Pour construire notre voyage, l’agence nous a donné de précieux conseils quant au choix de la période et des lieux authentiques à découvrir. Nous avons parcouru le Nord et les grandes villes du centre. Nous avions demandé une expérience authentique au plus près de la vie des vietnamiens et tout a été à la mesure de notre attente.[Voir plus]Pascale & ses amisFrance4 avril 2023 - Bonjour Lan DUONG, nous sommes à la fin de ce merveilleux voyage avec Manu notre guide très compétent qui nous fait partager de belles expériences extraordinaires dans le delta de Mékong ; notre séjour chez l'habitant a été formidable ; nous avons été très bien accueillis et nous avons très bien mangé un repas typique et nems et salade de papaye que nous avions cuisinés; les activités que nous avons faites nous ont beaucoup plu; les promenades en bateau étaient très bien aussi ; à hué et hoi an nous avons beaucoup apprécié Tian qui nous a guidé dans les villes ; elle est très attentionnée ; Nous remercions tous nos guides tous nos chauffeurs qui conduisaient très bien et avec lesquels on était en sécurité, toute l'équipe de Vietnam Découverte et particulièrement toi qui a été attentive et a répondu à nos attente de voyage et nous a réalisé un voyage personnalisé loin des touristes par moment ; nous n'avons pas été embêté par la grosse pluie ; c'est un très très beau [Voir plus]Emilien Chovet et ses amis France15 Avril 2023 - Bonjour Trang VU, Nous avons bien aimé le nord du Vietnam malgré la météo parfois difficile. J’ai préféré Ninh Binh, c’était magnifique, c’est une bonne idée de faire du vélo + barque ! Nous sommes dans le train. Hiep était vraiment super, c’était un très bon guide. Nous sommes ravis de nos visites, du guide et du chauffeur. C’est génial ![Voir plus]Mme. Maryse et M. DanielFrance03 Mai 2023 - Nous avons été ravi de vous rencontrer à Hanoï, effectivement rien de plus agréable que de pouvoir échanger sur divers sujets de vive voix. Nous avons vraiment été ravis de notre séjour Vietnam, Cambodge. Nous avons beau réfléchir, pas de fausse note ! Notre guide sud du Vietnam TRUONG TAN DUNG charmant avec beaucoup d’humour, notre guide du Cambodge KONG CHHUN très professionnel et notre guide nord du Vietnam DUOC également très professionnel. Nous avons été très touchés par l’accueil et bienveillance des ethnies qui nous ont agréablement reçu. Cela nous a fait très chaud au cœur, nous adorons ces rapports humains, les Vietnamiens ont une telle philosophie de vie. Nous aimions déjà le Vietnam … mais nous en sommes vraiment tombés amoureux.[Voir plus]Mme Martine Vanderbeck et son filsBelgique13 Mai 2023 - Nous avons vécu un voyage magnifique qui nous laissera des souvenirs merveilleux à mon fils et à moi-même il s'agissait de son cadeau d'anniversaire pour ses 30 ans ! ... et cela grâce à vous qui vous êtes occupés de la logistique et je tiens à faire remarquer que le choix des hôtels était parfait et aussi les guides Duc au Vietnam et Moni au Cambodge et les chauffeurs qui ont tout fait pour nous faire plaisir sans parler des visites qui étaient les "must" vu le peu de temps que nous avions sur place ![Voir plus]Jean-Pierre et ses amisProvence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur01 Avril 2023 - Nous allons tous très bien et nous avons retrouvé nos domiciles. Nous vous remercions vivement pour votre superbe organisation qui nous a permis de passer un séjour des plus agréable dans ce beau pays. Merci aussi aux chauffeurs et guides qui ont tous été très professionnels et de bons compagnons de voyage. Je serai aussi heureux de passer par vos service lors d'un voyage dans l'un des pays que vous proposez.[Voir plus]Sylvie et René CanadaMars 2023 - nous avons découvert le Vietnam et une partie du Cambodge en achetant votre programme ’La Beauté Caché du Vietnam et Cambodge ’. C’est entre le 16 février et 12 mars 2023 que nous avons fait notre voyage et aujourd’hui mon conjoint et moi nous voulons vous donner notre appréciation. Au sujet des communications à la préparation du voyage très bon services. Au sujet du programme et de l’itinéraire très bien fait et préparé tout était très clair. On a aimé découvrir le Vietnam du nord au sud, nous avons eu de très bons guides et chauffeurs...[Voir plus]Mme Kathleen Dauchy et ses amisFrance03 mars 2023 - Voici une semaine que nous sommes rentrés du Vietnam et nous sommes tous enchantés de notre séjour. Nous avons eu raison de faire appel une nouvelle fois à vos services car à nouveau vous avez su nous concocter un voyage sur mesure, de qualité, et qui correspondait à nos attentes. Merci à l'agence Vietnam Découverte pour votre professionnalisme, vos bons conseils, votre disponibilité dans nos échanges et votre accueil dans vos locaux d'Hanoi. Nous ne manquerons pas de parler de vous. D'ailleurs nous avons donné envie de visiter le Vietnam à beaucoup de nos proches à travers nos photos. Nous n'oublions pas de citer votre nom à chaque fois😉. Un grand merci à Yiep et Lan que nous connaissions de notre précédent séjour pour leur accompagnement tout au long de notre voyage. Ils ont été à l'écoute, disponibles et surtout ont su nous transmettre leur amour de leur pays.[Voir plus]La famille LEVAASTFrance9 mars 2023 - Votre agence propose tellement un service de qualité que cela nous intéresserait 🤗🙏 Beaucoup d’opérateurs se contentent de promener les touristes sur les routes évidentes. Nous voyageons plutôt en routards» d’habitude à cause de cela. Mais votre agence propose vraiment des activités difficilement organisables seuls, avec des explications personnalisées et en français. Donc une vraie plus value pour les visiteurs 👍👍👍[Voir plus]Daniel Nikolic et sa familleFrance29 mars 2023 - Nous avont été ravis de notre voyage, du début à la fin. Aucune fausse note ! Tout était impeccable. Le chauffeur et la guide étaient exceptionnellement gentils, humains et professionnels. Jade nous a aprris beaucoup de chose sur le pays. C'est une personne humainement attachante et inoubliable. Les paysages du Nord sont magnifiques et moinsconnus des touristes nous sommes contents de notre choix.[Voir plus]Audrey Montchovet et sa mère Colette Bordeaux, France10 mars 2023 - Que dire de cette agence si ce n'est EXCEPTIONNELLE. Nous sommes parties avec ma maman via cette agence en février/mars 2023 en faisant uniquement confiance aux avis et nous avons eu raison ! Tout était parfait du début à la fin. Le suivi et l'accompagnement dans l'organisation, l'accueil à notre arrivée, les explication du voyage, les différents guides du Nord au Sud ainsi que les chauffeurs. Tout était parfaitement organisé![Voir plus]Véronique CHAPOT & sa familleRully, France24 Janvier 2023 - Nous avons été très enchantés par notre voyage, la qualité des prestations et votre chaleureux accueil dans vos locaux C’était vraiment super la soirée chez l’habitant. Nous avons vraiment eu un coup de cœur sur la randonnée pédestre de Pu Luong. Le guide est très arrangeant Le circuit proposé et la formule semi-liberté ont correspondu tout à fait à nos attentes. Un grand merci à toute votre équipe et peut-être à une prochaine fois.[Voir plus]FAMILLES MARCHAND , ROY ET FOUCHENANTES FRANCE27 Janvier 2023 - Après avoir établi un programme personnalisé avec l' agence pour nos 3 couples, nous avons été totalement satisfaits de ce merveilleux voyage. Tout s' est très bien déroulé dans les 3 régions visitées grâce à nos 3 guides Mr LONG, Mme HA et Mme LE. Tous les 3 ont été très à l' écoute et ont répondu à toutes nos attentes, avec un grand professionnalisme Nous avons apprécié que l' agence nous contacte en cours de circuit pour connaître notre ressenti. Nous recommandons chaleureusement votre agence à tous les futurs voyageurs pour découvrir votre joli pays et sa population très accueillante. Et nous garderons particulièrement un excellent souvenir de notre nuit chez l'habitant, et de nos hôtes LOAN et sa famille.[Voir plus]Beata et Benoît BonpasGrande Avenue, Lamorlaye, France14 Décembre 2022 - Un grand merci à vous et à toute l'équipe pour l'organisation de ce périple. Les 3 guides étaient TOP, maîtrisant parfaitement la langue française. Tous les 3 ont une très grande connaissance des lieux et de l'histoire, toujours promptes à nous raconter les uses et coutûmes. Concernant le sud, on a beaucoup apprecié la barque dans la réserve naturelle. En un mot beaucoup de rencontres différentes qui resteront gravées dans nos mémoires.[Voir plus]Sophie CHAPPUIS et ses fillesLausanne, Suisse31 Octobre 2022 - "Notre voyage était extraordinaire. Le Vietnam était le pays que je désirais visiter depuis si longtemps et malgré le Covid qui a passé, j’y suis arrivée grace à vous et votre agence. Et votre réactivité par rapport à la météo pour la baie d’Halong étaient parfait. Nous avons pu voir la baie avec le beau temps le premier jour. Le jour d'après nous sommes revenus avec la pluie mais ça on y peut rien… c'est la méteo... Je n’hésiterai pas à revenir vers vous sans hésitations."[Voir plus]Annie PUECH et François BABOTrue Laurens Ravanel 34500 Beziers, France25 Octobre 2022 - "Nous avons passé, grâce à vous, un séjour magnifique à tout point de vue. L'organisation était parfaite et nous avions un guide formidable. Il a toujours été à l'écoute de nos désirs et a su même les anticiper. Il a compris que nous aimions la montagne et la nature et il nous a amené dans tous les villages des ethnies, nous faisant découvrir leurs manières de vivre. Le chauffeur a été également à la hauteur, très prudent et prenant soin de nous. Nous vous avons déjà recommandé auprès de quelques amis et ne manquerons de vous recontacter si nous envisageons de revenir en Asie."[Voir plus] Pu Luong Mai Chau Valley Panorama Cycling Tour in Mai Chau Early Morning Rice Fields Mai Chau Tour is a great combination of Mai Chau valley and Pu Luong for your experience in the Northern mountain region of Vietnam in 3 days. Taking this tour you will have an opportunity to explore the beautiful landscapes of mountains and paddy fields as well as learn about the way of tribal lives here. Trip price varies according to season period and number of people. Please get in touch with us for a quotation based on your travel preferences and dates. Day 1 Hanoi – Mai Chau L, D Mai Chau Tour will start from Hanoi Capital. We will pick you up at your hotel at your hotel and transfer to Mai Chau valley approx. 3-hour drive. Stop on the way to visit a market of Muong people and admire a wonderful panorama of Mai Chau valley from Thung Khe Pass. On arrival, check in and have lunch in Lac village which is home to White Thai. Take a walking/cycling tour to explore villages scattered around hills in the afternoon. Day 2 Pu Luong Nature Reserve Trek B, L, D Today, we will take a day trip to explore Pu Luong. Approach this stunning nature reserve after about hours. Here a hiking tour with your guide will give you an opportunity to discover not only nature but also tribe communities. Afterwards, we drive back to your hotel in Mai Chau. Day 3 Mai Chau – Hanoi B Morning, we will leave for Sam Khoe village approx. 35-minute drive. On arrival, your guide will take you on a hiking tour to admire the beauty of rice fields and mountains and learn about the way of local life. Have lunch before returning to Hanoi. Services on Mai Chau Tour Inclusions Accommodation English speaking guide Air-conditioned transport Relevant permits and entrance fees Meals as indicated in the itinerary B – Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner Exclusions Personal expenses Tip and other service not mentioned Destination information → Mai Chau is a beautiful valley, approximately 135 km from Hanoi capital. Most villages in Mai Chau valley are inhabited by Thai ethnic people. Coming here, you will encounter many of them still living on houses on stilts. → Pu Luong, around 170 km from Hanoi, is a nature reserve established in 1999. It is home to ethnic Muong and Thai people. Pu Luong is well-known for fabulous landscape with limestone mountains and terraced fields Suggestions for Mai Chau Tour and further exploration The best time for visiting Mai Chau and Pu Luong is the period of rice harvest. The season of harvest is from September to October in Mai Chau, and from September to November in Pu Luong. The Weather during this time is also the most peasant in a year. Beside Mai Chau Valley and Pu Luong Nature reserve, Sapa is also an ideal destination to discover the beauty of mountain landscape and life of ethnic minorities. For further reference, please watch Sapa Mountain Town. If you are looking for not only a short trip but also a multi-day tour that allows you to explore beautiful landscape and the diversity of culture throughout Vietnam. Below are the links of standard tours for your reference ⇒ A 10-day fantastic Vacation → A 15-day Vietnam Holiday with best places ⇒ An 19-day Vietnam Trip with an authentic experience When to visit Mai Chau and Pu Luong? Climate and weatherMai Chau is located in Hoa Binh province, while Pu Luong only borders it and is situated in Quan Hóa and Bá Thước district of Thanh Hóa Province. However, the tropical monsoon climate in both places is affected by mountain ridges. In July temperatures reach 30°C 86°F in July and a minimum of 14°C 57°F in time to visit In our opinion, the best time to visit is when the weather is dry and there is a light breeze, from September to May. Moreover, you can see the rice turn from green to yellow in September, which is a sign for locals “time to harvest!”. February to May and September to November are great months to go trekking or cycling in Mai Chau and Pu Luong. Weather from October to November and February to May is still ok, just a tiny bit colder than previously mentioned period. June to September is hotter but also more humid, you can expect rainfall, sometimes floods and temperatures of 25°C 77°F to 35°C 95°F. From November to the end of February it can get chilly and it is the least popular period to visit with temperatures around 14 57°F -16°C 60°F Generally speaking, the best time to visit both locations falls between these highs and lows. However, as an old Scandinavian saying goes “there’s no bad weather, just bad clothing” How to get there?TransportSo now you have an idea about when to go. But how to get there? As we said, both places are about 4-5h ride from Hanoi, depending on the traffic. With that being said, if you head here, you can choose fromBUS… which is the cheapest way. Tickets go for about 8 – 13 dollars and buses depart either from the centre Hoan Kiem area or from My Dinh bus station. You can look for tickets on websites such as Baolau. Private car or a minivanSome companies leave straight from the Noi Bai Airport and some that leave from Old Quarter or can pick you up at your hotel. The price depends on if you book a car or a van for four, eight or twelve people. Price for a 4-seater is around 100-150 dollars MOTORBIKEMotorbike is a good way to go there and enjoy the scenery if you are an experienced driver and have insurance better safe than sorry, right? The best thing is that you can also make stops on the way. A popular stop on the way to Mai Chau is Hoa Binh Lake. If you pick this way of transport, bike rental costs about 12-17 dollars a day. In case you are “in for a long run”, you can also buy a bike, travel through Vietnam and then easily sell it. Price for a Honda is about 400-500 dollars, the price for a Minsk varies from 100-300 dollars. We recommend you to check a blog called Vietnam Coracle’ that offers first-hand tips for bikers PRO TIPIf you plan on trekking too, the best is to hire a local travel guide or a local agency specialising in tailor-made trips, that will plan everything for you, from transport to accommodation. You can check a sample itinerary including Mai Chau and Pu Luong here. BONUS Have you binh? If you are visiting Ninh Binh as well, there is a bus connection. By connecting 3 of them – Ninh Binh, Pu Luong, and Mai Chau you will get the full natural experience. We recommend asking your hotel for a timetable, though. Mai Chau and Pu Luong areas are still developing and there are not that many connections as Sapa for instance, so better plan ahead. How to get around?TransportGet a bike or get a guide!To be honest, this is the area where you can turn your mind and phone off and just walk around. This is the best way to explore those places. However, if you want to do more trekking than morning yoga and just chilling and sampling the food, and you won’t hire a guide, you will literally end up walking around between the villages, without “diving deeper.” There are many guides out there, we recommend checking Tripadvisor forums for recommendations or Facebook travel groups. Or just contact a local agency that has a long-lasting relationship with reputable drivers and guides and you will be all set. If you arrive on a bike, you can discover Mai Chau and Pu Luong that way too. Again, we recommend using the Vietnam Coracle’ blog as a reference. What to see in Mai Chau and Pu Luong? Top Attractions1. All things nature The pace of living is much slower here. Bike, walk or trek along Mai Chau’s or Pu Luong’s dirt roads and get amazed by the scenery changes, from villages with stilt houses, lush rice paddies, to the jungle, and caves. And in Pu Luong Nature reserve Khu bảo tồn Thiên nhiên Pù Luông, do not miss out on water wheels. This non-electrical invention made out of bamboo brings life to rice fields rice grown here needs to be submerged under the water and makes them amazingly green. source Vietnam Coracle2. Flora and fauna For example, we recommend tea plantations and fruit trees in and around Moc Chau town, located about 40 km from Mai Chau. Spring is your go-to time. If you will find yourself here between March and April, the Hoa Ban flower Bauhinia variegata – a typical tree of Northwest Vietnam, usually blooms. And in the winter, the town of Mai Chau is surrounded by blooming peach trees and marigold and mustard flowers. Look them up. Mai Chau flowery scene3. Authentic stilt houses and homestays Never stayed in a setting like this? Worry not. Stay in these wooden buildings on stilts, in rooms with reed mattings, dreaming on a thin futon. All safe and comfy and most importantly, authentic. Due to the house being on stilts – fresh breeze comes in and in the rainy season, there is no risk of flooding. Mosquito nets, double futons mattresses for couples, tasty home-made food are available everywhere. But bring mosquito repellent, if they are attracted to you. Most of the places already have western toilets as well. There is no AC, duh, but you will have at least one or two fans so all will be… FANtastic. Mai Chau typical stilt houses4. Ethnic minorities Mai Chau district has about 50 000 inhabitants, including seven ethnic minority groups — the Thai, Hmong, Zao Dao, Muong, Tay, Hoa and Viet. Thai referred to as White and Black Thai ethnic people occupy the with any ethnic, and especially their traditional dresses, crafts and dishes are a must-see and try. On Sunday, you can visit Mai Châu town’s morning market and see them dressed in their finest traditional clothing. You can also witness folk games, weaving, and dances look for Xoe performances. If you will fall in love with it all, we recommend Pom Coong village Pom means hill and Coong is the drum or one of the festivals Xen Muong Festival in August, Cau Mua April, Xen Xo Phon Festival April/May, Xec Bua Festival in Spring, during Tet… The exact dates depend on the Lunar calendar. Feel free to contact us for details! source Traditional weaving and silk brocade making Both Lac 1 and Poom Coong villages of Mai Chau are overflowing with shops selling textiles, paintings… Many of the goods are shipped in from China, but some of the textiles are made on-site and you can watch the locals weaving a scarf or a textile using a loom at some of the outlets. We recommend Ban Lac 2 and visit Hoa Ban+ shop. Hoa Ban+ is a social enterprise providing vocational training facilities and job creation for the disabled. Many people say that the Lac village is a tourist centre of Mai Chau district so do not miss it. We also recommend Pa Co Market, full of Hmong culture, lying between Mai Chau and Moc Chau, happening on Sunday mornings. TIP As there is a loom in each family in Mai Chau, we especially recommend these hand-made products, if you contemplate buying a souvenir because you will support the local community at the same time. source Local markets Sunday morning, wakey wakey eggs and bakey or… wakey wakey rise or rice and shine! See points 4 and 5. source Thung Khe Pass Also called White Stone Pass, it might look dangerous but it is very beautiful. It is located at Highway 6, Hoa Binh province, between Tan Lac and Mai Chau, with the peak at about 1000 meters above sea level. You will have Mai Chau valley at your feet. It is also a great place to stop for a break, breathe in some fresh air, buy snacks or souvenirs and snap a picture. Thung Khe Pass - a sight to behold8. Village life Want some action after hiking and breathing deep on a hike? Ethnic White Thai villages are a short walk from Mai Chau town Ban Poom Coong, Ban Lac 1 and Ban Lac 2. Ban Lac 1 is the most developed, with more gift shops and a busier nightlife. Pu Luong is still calmer, so in case you are not into souvenirs, stay there for more calm breathing and relaxation 🙂 source Gò Lào Waterfall & more Go Lao or Go Mu is located about 15 km from Mai Chau town. You can also visit Mo Luong Cave inside the Phu Ka Mountain or Chieu Cave. The entrance is quite magical, beside the ancient giant Xa Pung tree. There is always something to see in Hoa Binh province! Black River Da river is close too, so haggle with locals if you are up for a boat trip. It is also dammed and this dam is the biggest reservoir in Vietnam. 10. Doi Cave Bat Cave The largest cave in Pu Luong. It is located in Kho Muong village and there is a min. 5 species of bats living there. However, there are several caves in the area, if you are into this, ask your guide. source to do in Mai Chau and Pu Luong? Top 3 activities1. Trekking As mentioned, to dive deep into the wilderness and explore, trekking is the best. There are several routes and levels. Consult a travel agent, your accommodation or a guide. Most popular routes cover Mai Chau, Lac Village, Na Phon Village or Pom Coong village. If you have more than 3 days, you can move from Mai Chau valley to Pu Luong and this way you will see both Thanh Hoa province and Hoa Binh province. And if you fell in love, continue to Cuc Phuong National park, which is already located in a different province – Ninh Binh province. Find out more about Ninh Binh, called Halong Bay on land. Mai Chau Trekking2. Cycling Discover one of the most beautiful countrysides of Vietnam on two wheels, ecologically. Pedal around rice fields, limestone mountains, rugged scenery, farms, houses of locals, ponds with fish. Cycling is one of the "sporty" things to do here3. Wining and dining with a local family But be careful with the rice wine 🙂 From more exotic deep-fried cicadas to typical chicken or pork with rice, your tummy will be happy. Read more on what to try in Mai Chau and Pu Luong in the following section. Bored? As the famous saying says, only boring people are bored. There are many things to do and see, depending on your taste and time. But there is one thing every visitor does to protect and develop this beautiful place See some trash? Pick it up. Take only pictures, leave only footprints. Respect the culture and nature. And make memories. See a smiling local? Does not matter if they do not speak English or only partially. Smile, try to say “Xin Chào” and enjoy your stay here. However, as a courtesy, always ask for permission or a smiley nod before taking a portrait pic of someone. You can download useful apps to help you with Vietnamese. Or find useful phrases and tips for Vietnam here. Do not know what to pack? Check our article or feel free to contact us. What to eat in Mai Chau and Pu Luong? Specialities1. Crickets or cicadas Ve sầu chiên Let’s start off with something unusual and crunchy, shall we? At some homestays, you can snack on these crispy, fried bugs. source Chicken The most famous being Ga Doi. The chicken here are not as big as the normal chicken max 1 kg, one would even say they are quite athletic as they run up and down the hill all the time but that makes the meat firm and delicious. And also as organic as it gets. We highly recommend the chicken legs. They are usually prepared on charcoal and have a natural earthy mouthwatering taste. source Buffalo If you want to try something new, Muong people cook buffalo too, usually with the “lom” leaves. Look up “Thit Trâu Lá Lồm”, however, it is only made on special occasions or festivals, Tet New Year or sold to visitors as gifts. source Pork Also cooked slowly and on the charcoal, you will love it. Look up a dish called “cham cheo”. Most of the pork here comes from Muong pigs, also called “Mán” pigs, a very special type of pigs in Vietnam – long body, thin legs, small ears, long and hard hair. Kind of a boar but it is not. And it is definitely not boaring. Apart from bbq, pork can be boiled or pickled as well. If you would like to try the pickled one, it is called “Thịt Lợn Muối Chua” source Mai Chau glutinous rice This is more of a festive dish but you might be lucky to find it. After 4-5 hours or rice being soaked so it softens and drained, it is boiled in a pot. You can even get it in 5 colours, just look for Xôi Ngũ Sắc. Green, yellow, white, orange, and black – you will want to come back 🙂 source Bamboo shoots Fried, boiled, stewed or grilled, shoot it in your mouth. There is even a speciality dish- Stir-Fried Wild Bees With Bamboo Shoots. Yes, bees. Do not “bee” afraid to try it! 7. Sour meat Thịt ướp chua Sour marinated meat is a delicacy here. Pork or buffalo are mixed with galangal sometimes mistaken for ginger source Rice wine “Rượu” or Can wine “Rượu Cần” First one you can get everywhere in Vietnam. But the latter is special for this part and kind of festive and a special drink. It is made from grains such as cassava, seeds, glutinous rice, and nuts. After adding herbs, ginger, fruits and many types of forest leaves it is put into a pot or jar and left to ferment, the longer the better. Fun fact no cups or bowls are used to drink it, but one-meter-long bamboo sticks pierced through the intestine and bent into the wine bottle. An unusual experience, right? Can wine9. Loong Soup A unique dish of Muong people is made from the wild banana tree, boiled meat water, bones and “lốt” leaf and crushed Doi nuts. 10. Rice cooked in bamboo – Com Lam We decided to end our list with a signature dish of Mai Chau. What are the spices and flavour like? Usual seasoning is salt, sesame, and peanuts. Since it is wrapped in a banana leaf and bamboo and cooked over charcoal, you can also feel that. It can be eaten hot, or cold. Just break the bamboo cover and enjoy the sweet-smelling rice, hot or cold. So… ready to head to the land of silk, ethnic minorities, yellow and green rice paddies, mountains covered in mysterious fog and authentic Thai homestays? Hungry for more?Discover more destinations Viet NamRust-colored dirt tracks, terraced rice paddies, and climbs through ethnic minority villages are a few of the sites. Get ready for the cross-country experience of a lifetimeDestinationsWhere are you heading to?Start your journeyCustomize your private tourAt Mr Biker Saigon, we can tailor your adventure to be exactly the way you want it. Whether it is tweaking an existing itinerary, booking a standard tour on a different date, or creating your own unique one! Clients & Supporters Unforgettable journeysunited with amazing partners. 1 OVERVIEW Pu Luong / Mai Chau / Ninh Binh / Hanoi / Lan Ha Bay Explore the north of Vietnam on this overland trip through Mai Chau, Puluong, Ninh Binh and Lan Ha Bay. Trek through local villages of the Mai Chau Valley, discover traditional stilt houses of the Uoi and Lan villages in Puluong and cruise through Lan Ha Bay. TRIP HIGHLIGHTS Picturesque Mai Chau Valley Trek through local villages surrounded by spectacular karst rock formations and rice paddies. Puluong trekking discovery Discover the traditional stilt houses of ethnic minorities such as the Uoi and Lan villages and admire the peaceful life of its inhabitants. Overnight cruise through Lan Ha Bay Fall asleep under the stars and wake up to a spectacular sun rise in the middle of Lan Ha Bay. ITINERARY Mai Chau – Puluong – Ninh Binh – Ha Long - 6 days 5 nights DAY 1 - Hanoi – Mai ChauMEALS [LunchDinner] Hanoi to Mai Chau 150km4hrs Depart Hanoi early morning for approximately 4 hour drive to Mai Chau located about 150 km southwest of Hanoi. Just an hour beyond Hanoi, after Hoa Binh Town, the road weaves through mountains, fertile valleys and traditional villages. Arrive in the picturesque Mai Chau Valley surrounded by spectacular karst rock formations and rice paddies. After lunch, spend the afternoon exploring the idyllic natural surroundings. Start the tour waking around 2- 4 hours through some villages in the Mai Chau Valley. This evening enjoy a traditional Thai performance of music and dance. The Thai ethnic group has inhabited this area for centuries and much of their lifestyle and traditions have remained unchanged over the years. Overnight in Mai Chau. DAY 2 - Mai Chau – Pu LuongMEALS [BreakfastLunchDinner] Mai Chau to Puluong 40km 1,5hrs Water wheels walk and rafting 3 km easy walk – hours 1 km rafting – 1 hours Wake up among the peaceful and beautiful mountainous setting and enjoy breakfast. Transfer to Puluong by road via a breathtaking mountain pass with panoramic views of the valley. Spend some free time to explore the beautiful retreat. Lunch will be served at Puluong Retreat. Then, transfer to a suspension bridge over the Cham River and begin a easy trekking from 3 to 5km in search of stunning water wheels. Get up close to each wheel and discover how water is moved from river to handmade bamboo aqueducts via simple constructions of all sizes. Transferred back to Puluong Retreat for dinner. Overnight at Puluong. DAY 3 - Pu Luong – Half-day trekkingMEALS [BreakfastLunchDinner] Enthralling trekking routes 6 km easy walking – almost hours Wake up to the sounds of nature and enjoy a simple yet tasty breakfast among the tranquil setting of fields and mountains. After breakfast, go on a hr hike up and down narrow trails. Observe many traditional stilt houses of minorities and the lush canopies of greenery. Walk pass Uoi Village and Lan Village and admire the peaceful life of the villagers. Depending on the season, get to see the various farming activities and learn how colourful textiles are weaved together. Then, transfer back to Puluong Retreat for lunch. Spend the afternoon at leisure. Overnight at Pu Luong. DAY 4 - Pu Luong – Ninh BinhMEALS [BreakfastLunchDinner] Puluong to Ninh Binh 130km Depart Pu Luong this morning at for hours drive to Ninh Binh province, one of the most beautiful parts of Vietnam with its dramatic scenery and historical temples. The rice fields here are beautiful and the mountains have earned the area the nickname Dry Halong Bay’, a moniker borne out by the limestone karsts which dominate the landscape. Upon arrival, begin a relaxing 5-15km biking trip around Dong Tam hamlet. The length of the bike ride is dependent on personal choice Pass by peaceful villages and enjoy the rustic countryside landscapes. Enjoy a late lunch before hopping aboard for a 2-hour boat trip through small canals among the paddy fields rice fields seen between March and early June, then strolling along the curling rocky path of the foot for 200m and going up 20 steps to reach the Galaxy cave gate. Get inside the cave and admire the spectacular stalactites above the cave ceiling. Continue to discover But Hien cave, where there are many natural sparkling stalactites with shapes and figures Then, return to the pier and for a transfer to the hotel for check-in. Overnight in Ninh Binh DAY 5 - Ninh Binh – Ha LongMEALS [BreakfastLunchDinner] Ninh Binh to Halong 210km 4hrs This morning, be transferred for a 4hr journey by road from NInh Binh to Ha Long. Arrive at Tuan Chau pier in towards noon and proceed with check-in formalities for the overnight cruise on Lan Ha bay. After the welcome onboard, a lunch will be served while cruising towards the bay itself. In the afternoon, enjoy some visits and/or activities depending on each boat’s itinerary or just spend some time relaxing on-board. Towards the end of the day the boat sets anchor for the night among the karst formations. Dinner is served on board. Overnight on cruise at Lan Ha Bay. DAY 6 - Ha Long – HanoiMEALS [BreakfastLunch] Enjoy a fresh morning in the middle of the bay, the sun rises on Lan Ha bay in the morning and breakfast is served brunch on some boats while the vessels cruises slowly through the magnificent rock formations and back towards port. Disembark and transfer back to Hanoi Note This tour may be subject to change depending on weather conditions. IMPORTANT INFORMATION Services Notes Our services include Accommodation in a traditional stilt house private sleeping area per group or hotel accommodation in a shared twin or shared double room at the Mai Chau Lodge/ Mai Chau valley view/ Puluong Retreat with daily breakfast Meals as mentioned in the itinerary B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner English or French speaking guide for other languages and a national guide supplements apply Tours and transfers as mentioned by private air conditioned vehicle Entrance fees for mentioned visits Our services do not include Other meals than mentioned Other services than mentioned International and domestic Flights Laundry, telephone calls and expenditure of a personal nature Tips, Travel insurance We strongly recommend the purchase of travel insurance covering emergency medical evacuation for trips to Vietnam. Prices are valid 30 days from date of offer. Past this date price and conditions may be readjusted. The cost of air tickets is subject to change without prior notice by the airlines. Reservations during peak times Christmas, New Year, Vietnamese Lunar New Year, National Holidays may be subject to supplementary charges. Rooms at hotels are available only from 1400 on arrival day till 1200 on departure date. A supplement will be added if early check-in or late check-out is desired. Please note that all the above services & tours have yet to be booked, they are proposed for your information only and we will not make any reservations before we receive your confirmation to do so. If one or some proposed services is are not available at the moment of booking, we will try to find other possibilities/options or other similar services in order to avoid changes to the program. SIMILAR TOURS YOU MAY LIKE Not quite right or still need some more inspiration? 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mai chau to pu luong