Located just 140 km to the South west of Hanoi, Mai Chau valley has spectacular mountainous landscape dotted with house-on-stilts villages of the Thai ethnic group. Further off roads, here and there you will find isolated Hmong communities on mountain sides. This three-day trip offers an insight into the life of Thai and Hmong people in Vietnam, with a combination of cultural sightseeing and soft adventure activities.
Tour Itinerary:
Day 1: Hanoi - Hang Kia Village. Depart Hanoi at 08 00 am for a 3 1/2 hours heading south-west to Mai Chau, Hoa Binh province. Following lunch at Lac village, we drive for another hour to the Hmong village of Sa Linh, the starting point of our 2-hour uphill trek to Hang Kia. Upon arrival, we can visit the local exchange stalls to see how the people of this isolated village do business or join the local kids at some games of football. Tonight, we are guests of a Hmong family. The Hmong are not usually outgoing, but they can become pretty talkative and friendly after some cups of rice wine. (L/D)
Trekking distance: 14 km/4 - 6 hours
Day 2: Hang Kia - Van Village. Bidding farewell to the family after breakfast, we take one-hour uphill trek before descending to Maichau valley to the Van village of the Thai. Arriving in early afternoon, we can take some rest before wandering around this scenic valley for some excellent photos opportunities. After dinner, a chat with our hosts, who are exceptionally hospitable, would be interesting as we can know more about the life and culture of the local people. (B, picnic lunch, D) (Overnight on house-on-stilts)
Trekking distance: 14 km/4 - 6 hours
Day 3: Van - Sam Khoe - Hanoi. Today, we take an easy walk for 2hrs to Sam Khoe, where we get picked up by our van. We drive back to Lac village and have an hour wandering about the village before lunch. Then, we drive back to Hanoi. Along the way, we make a short stop in Hoa Binh town to see the biggest hydropower dam in Vietnam, the Hoabinh hydropower plant. We arrive in Hanoi around 16.30 pm. (B/L)
Trekking distance: 7 km/2 hours
Depart from: Hanoi
Return to: Hanoi
Activities: Trekking, cultural exchange
Grade: Moderate
Recommend Bringing:
- Comfortable walking boots
- Rainwear
- Light-torch
- Camera and film
- Medicine for personal use
You will be collected from your hotel. Pick up time will be advised upon confirmation of booking. This tour must be booked at least 72 hours in advance of your travel date. Confirmation for this product will be received at time of booking
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Included:
- English speaking guide
- All transportation and transfers by A.C bus
- Homestay
- Meals as indicated in itinerary
- All admission fees and permits
- Drinking water during the trek
Not Included:
- Pre/post trip arrangement
- Meals not indicated
- Travel insurance
- Other personal expenses
Also see tour packages in:
Asia
Vietnam
Hiking & Trekking
Cultural Journey
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