Mai Chau to Pu Luong: 3 Days of Hiking and Exploration

Hanoi – Mai Chau – Pu Luong

After breakfast, your guide will pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi, and we’ll begin our journey to Hoa Binh Province, just 80 km to the west. Along the way, we’ll stop at a local market before continuing toward Mai Chau Valley. Our first stop will be the village of Pom Coong, where you can rest and enjoy lunch in a traditional Thai stilt house.

After lunch, we’ll embark on a hike through Pu Luong Nature Reserve, walking among rice fields and mountains. As we pass through small villages, you’ll have the opportunity to witness the everyday life of the local communities in this stunning natural setting. The day will culminate with a home-cooked dinner and an overnight stay with a local family in a traditional Thai stilt house.

A 5-7 km off-the-beaten-path hike.

On the second day, we offer an optional early morning activity for those who enjoy waking up with the sunrise. If you rise before dawn, you can witness the sun rising over the mountains while local farmers begin their early routines. You’re welcome to join them for a short while and experience the rural Vietnamese lifestyle firsthand.

Whether you join this early activity or not, you’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast prepared by your Thai hosts before beginning the 5-6 hour trek ahead. The first stretch will be the toughest, with steep climbs and exciting river crossings, but the reward is well worth it. As the trail eases, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the valley below, with expansive rice terraces, rainforests, and streams—truly one of the best off-the-beaten-path hikes in Vietnam!

Along the way, we’ll stop for a picnic lunch in Hin Village before continuing to Hieu Village, which many consider to be one of the most picturesque rural villages in all of Vietnam.

Our destination is Kho Muong Village, where you’ll have free time to explore the village, chat with locals, or simply relax in the eco-homestay established by Flora and Fauna International (FFI) in collaboration with the local communities. The total trek covers approximately 12-15 kilometers.

In the evening, unwind with a drink and socialize with the friendly locals in the peaceful atmosphere of Kho Muong before settling in for the night in a traditional Thai-style stilt house.

A 12-15 km trek.

On your final day, we’ll embark on a 3-hour trek, covering approximately 5 to 7 kilometers. The day begins with an easy stretch, allowing you to relax and connect with the peaceful surroundings while gently warming up for the more challenging sections ahead.

After a short rest in Ban Hieu Village, you’ll tackle some steep climbs and exciting river crossings. As you ascend, the valley opens up to stunning panoramic views from your elevated vantage point. Take your time to soak in the scenery before we continue our journey to Pho Doan Village.

Here, we’ll rest again before heading to the main road, where your driver will be waiting to take you back to Hanoi. Along the way, we’ll stop for lunch, and you’ll arrive at your hotel in Hanoi by the late afternoon.

A 5-7 km walk.