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mai chau
About the tour...
A perfect introduction to the Mai Chau Valley. We leave Hanoi early and arrive via the dramatic Thung Khe Pass with its sweeping views of the valley below. Over 2 days we explore the White Thai villages of Ban Lac and Pom Coong, cycle through the rice paddies and experience a traditional homestay with a local family.
Mai Chau is one of the closest rural escapes from Hanoi - close enough for a weekend trip but far enough to feel like a different world entirely.
Itinerary
Day One - Hanoi to Mai Chau
08:00
We pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. The drive to Mai Chau is approximately 135km and takes around 3-4 hours, heading southwest through Hoa Binh Province.
11:00
Thung Khe Pass. Our first stop is at the top of the pass where we take in the panoramic views of the valley below. Local vendors sell corn and sugarcane here - a nice snack before we descend into the valley.
12:00
Lunch at a local restaurant in the valley. Traditional White Thai cuisine - expect sticky rice, grilled meats, fresh vegetables and bamboo shoot dishes.
13:30
Cycling through the rice paddies. We pick up bicycles and take the flat loop between Ban Lac and Pom Coong villages. Plenty of stops for photos and to chat with local villagers along the way.
15:30
Pom Coong Village. We walk through the quieter of the two Thai villages, visiting local weavers and seeing traditional stilt house architecture up close.
16:00
Chieu Cave. For those with energy to spare, we climb the 1,200 steps up the hillside next to Ban Lac. The cave itself is modest but the panoramic view of the valley from above is stunning - especially in the late afternoon light.
17:00
We check in to our homestay in Ban Lac Village. Time to relax, explore the village or watch the sunset over the rice paddies from the balcony of the stilt house.
19:00
Dinner at the homestay. Home-cooked White Thai food with the family, followed by a traditional dance performance in the village.
Day Two - Mai Chau to Hanoi
07:30
Breakfast at the homestay. Fresh tea, coffee and a selection of local dishes to start the day.
08:30
Morning walk through Ban Lac Village. We visit the local weavers and see brocade textiles being made on traditional looms. There is time to purchase handmade scarves, bags and other items directly from the artisans.
10:00
A short trek through the surrounding countryside, passing through rice paddies and smaller hamlets on the edge of the valley. The walk is easy and flat with lovely views of the limestone karsts.
12:00
Final lunch in the valley before we begin the drive back to Hanoi.
16:00
We drop you back at your hotel in Hanoi. The tour has ended but the memories of the peaceful valley should stay with you.