Mai Chau Valley: 3-Day Exploration Of Nature's Splendor
Itinerary
7.30 - 8.00: Be picked up from your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter and depart for Mai Chau valley. Step off the city after an hour's drive, you will be amazed by the beauty of emerald-green hills which confirm that the hustle and bustle city is left behind.
Passing the Thung Khe Pass, you reach Mai Chau flag tower around 11:00. We stop here for a spectacular view of Mai Chau Valley, refresh yourself, take photos and fill-up your lungs with fresh-air.
After the break at the peak of the tower, we go straight to your homestay, Mai Chau with Love Homestay, and be welcomed by a local guide and friendly homestay host. While enjoying a welcomed drink, your guide will brief your trip itinerary. He then shows you how local people make traditional textile production. You would try to be a local person and learn how to weave as a Thai person.
After some time to acquaint yourself with the villagers, your authentic lunch will be served by a local family of the White Thai Tribe.
You then check in at your homestay and enjoy a rest before cycling in the afternoon.
14.00: Embark on a cycling tour to explore the charming villages and rice paddy fields, and get a glimpse into the vibrant culture and traditional customs of White Thai and H’mong people as well as the way of their lives.
(The electric car is always available with an additional surcharge in case you prefer not to cycle)
16.30: Conclude your cycling tour at the homestay. You can then unwind and appreciate the sunset landscape of Mai Chau Valley at your leisure before having dinner.
After dinner, indulge yourself in a specially traditional performance by villagers, where you can dance and share "happy water" with the hospitable locals.
Overnight at Mai Chau with Love Homestay in a shared stilt house.
(A private bungalow is available with an additional surcharge.)
8.00: After breakfast, set off on a motorbike tour by local riders to explore the stunning beauty of Hang Kia-Pa Co, located at the gateway of the Northwest. Ride via Na Meo and Pieng Ve village - the remote villages, immersing yourself in the idyllic houses of H’mong people.
Traveling by motorbike with local riders, you will have a one-of-a-kind experience that cannot be replicated by other forms of travel. You can see a whole panoramic view of the valley, feel the wind in your hair, breathe in the scent of forests, and listen to the sounds of nature as you ride through the hidden germs in a remote part of Vietnam.
(An adventure riding on your own is available if you have the International Driving License)
10.30: Explore the Batik village, known for its unique hemp fabric adorned with intricate batik designs. Passed down through generations, the women possess exceptional skills in batik drawing and fabric dying. As per the traditional custom, the young girls who wish to marry must learn these skills from a young age.
11.30: Proceed to Tat Nang Waterfall, where you will have a picnic lunch and immerse yourself in the turquoise blue water and refreshing ambiance.
14.30: Navigating the motorbike to Black River, known as the “Halong Bay of the Northwest”. Enjoy the boat trip for approximately 2.5 hours around the lake, marveling at the majestic mountain formations, and discovering the remote stilt houses of the Zao people surrounding the lake.
17.00: Back to the homestay and indulge in the allure of a stunning sunset along the way.
19.00: Enjoy the family dinner at the homestay and overnight at the peaceful stilt house of Mai Chau with Love Homestay.
8.30: After a delicious breakfast at homestay, embark on a trek to explore the unspoiled natural beauty of Mai Chau Valley, encounter friendly locals, and learn about their unique way of life.
Trek through the pristine tropical forest based in the middle of the valley, witness the thousands-year-old trees and expand your knowledge about numerous different types of herbal plants with a detailed explanation from the local tour guide.
11.00: Take a breath for a quick lunch at Trau Long village to replenish your energy before continuing your trek to venture the rugged off-road paths that lead you back to homestay.
15.00: Back to the homestay to take a shower, and enjoy a tea break before getting in the limo bus to return to Hanoi at 16.00. Arrive at your hotel around 19.30, cherishing the memories of this beautiful trip.
Supplementary information
Motorbike model
Frequently Asked Questions
Test Despite of the fact that Vietnamese government attempts to outlaw the practice, the US Dollars still acts as an alternative currency which is almost completely interchangeable with Vietnam Dong. Many prices, especially for hotels, tours and expensive restaurants, are still quoted in USD, though you can pay in dong if you’d rather - just check what exchange rate they’re using.
For everyday expenses, we recommend you carry a mix of US Dollars cash and Vietnam Dong. For larger items or when the exchange rate works in your favour, use dollars. For cyclos, local food stalls and small purchases, it’s best to use Vietnam Dong. In either case, make sure you always have a stock of small notes so that there is no need to worry about change.
Absolutely! If you and your friends are looking for a private, one-of-a-kind adventure, we’ll design a trip just for your group. Share your travel ideas with us through our Tailor Made Tour form or message us on WhatsApp (+84 962913811), and together we’ll create an itinerary that perfectly matches your interests, pace, and style.
Yes, solo travelers are more than welcome to join our scheduled group tours. We operate group departures every month. Simply contact us to check the upcoming dates, and we’ll be happy to arrange for you to join a suitable group.
Every journey is handcrafted to match your style — whether it’s off-road thrills, cultural immersion, or both. Along the way, you’ll connect deeply with local people, landscapes, and stories.
From well-maintained motorbikes and gear to 24/7 support, we prioritize your safety and comfort at every turn. Our support crew, guides, and mechanics have your back from start to finish.
We believe in giving back. By riding with us, you help support ethnic minority communities through our handmade craft shop in Hanoi — "With Love from the Mountains."
We keep our groups small to ensure a personal, flexible, and unforgettable experience — where everyone becomes part of the Frontier family.
