We spend 5 nights in the ethnic hill tribes minority villages walking a average of 5 hours a day. We trek for four days through villages in the Mai Chau area and overnight in White Thai and H'mong villages where we have opportunities to observe the local lifestyle of these minority people. From the mountainous region of Mai Chau, we travel back to the nations capital, Hanoi. Travelers who prefer to get off the beaten track often prefer Mai Chau to Sapa.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Ha Noi - Mai Chau - Hang Kia. We depart Hanoi at 0800 heading west towards Hoa Binh province, two hours away. We will stop here for refreshments. Leaving Hoa Binh we climb towards the Mai Chau valley, about another two hours away, stopping on the way to take in the spectacular scenery.
Following lunch in Mai Chau town we drive to the White Thai village of Sa Linh. From here we will start our 3-hour trek to the village of Hang Kia. Our hosts for this evening will be the H'mong minority people. In sampling these peoples hospitality, we find out a little more of their lives and cultures with a cultural exchange following the evening meal. Tonight's accommodation could probably be a little more rustic than you would be used to. (L, D)
Day 2: Hang Kia - Van Village. This morning we will breakfast with the family, before bidding farewell to our gracious hosts and setting off on a 7-hour trek. On the way we will stop for a picnic lunch of sandwiches and fruit. Around 1600 we arrive at Van Village inhabited by the White Thai people.
Our equally hospitable hosts for this evening, will treat us to a fine meal, stories of life in Van village, share their home brewed rice wine with us and traditionally offer a toast to our good health and happiness. (B, L, D)
Day 3: Van Village - Xo Village. After breakfast we spend the morning strolling around the surrounding villages and meeting villagers along the way. After a morning of cultural insights we will return to Van village for lunch. With lunch finished there will time for a short siesta or stroll down to the river before embarking on a 3-hour walk to the village of Xo (pronounced Soh ).
Arriving at our new hosts residence around mid to late afternoon, there will be a opportunity to freshen up at the communal well before the sunsets. This evening following dinner, we will have the opportunity for more cultural interaction, before retiring for our second night in a stilt house. (B, L, D)
Day 4: Xo Village - Lac Village. This morning we breakfast with the family early before bidding farewell to our new friends, it is a five-hour trek from Xo to Lac village where we have lunch. We have the afternoon free to wander around one of the most picturesque Thai villages in Hoa Binh Province and also maybe wander into Mai Chau town itself. This evening is spent in Lac village. (B, L, D)
Day 5: Lac Village - Nanh Village. From Lac we drive to the Da River, 45 minutes from Mai Chau town, climb board our boat and cruise the river for about a hour. We have a 2-hour trek to a Zao village and a picnic lunch on the way. We have dinner and spend the night at the village. (B, L, D)
Day 6: Mai Chau - Ha Noi. We have breakfast at 0730 and leave the village at 0800. We retrace our steps back to the boat and the bus trip back to Hanoi. We get back to Hanoi by 1300. (B, L, D)
Notes:
- When: This tour operates year round however please note that during the wettest months are between June and August and the coldest months are from November to January
- Grade: Moderate
- Accommodation: Traditional minority stilt houses
- Transport: Air-conditioned vehicle
- Fitness Requirements: You would need to be in good physical condition to participate in the treks
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Standard 2 stars:
- $450 1 person
- $290 2-3 person
- $215 4-5 person
- $170 6-9 person
- $155 Single Supplement
Price includes:
- Accommodation at village
- Logistics for the treak
- English/French speaking guide
- Meals as indicated within the itinerary
- All in country transport
- Admission fees and permits
Price Does Not Include:
- International Airfares
- Domestic & International Airport taxes
- Meals and drinks not mentioned
- Personal expenses such as Bar, Laundry & Telephone bills
- Admission fees and permits during free time
- Tips and gratuities
- Pre Trip Information
Also see tour packages in:
Asia
Vietnam
Hiking & Trekking
Cultural Journey
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