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    15 Ng. 100 Đ. Nguyễn Xiển, Thanh Xuân Nam, Thanh Xuân, Hà Nội 100000

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Trekking from Mai Chau to Pu Luong Nature Reserve 10 Days

  • CODE: GDT644
  • Private Tour
  • Duration: 8 - 12 days
  • Price from: Contact
  • Route: Vietnam - Ha Noi - Pu Luong - Mai Chau

Overview

Embark on an Unforgettable 10-Day Trekking Journey from Mai Chau to Pu Luong Nature Reserve

 

Prepare for an extraordinary and profoundly immersive 10-day, 9-night expedition into the serene and culturally rich heartlands of Northern Vietnam with Golden Trail Travel's "Trekking from Mai Chau to Pu Luong Nature Reserve." This meticulously crafted adventure is designed for the discerning and intrepid traveler, those who seek to go far beyond the conventional tourist paths and forge a deep, authentic connection with Vietnam's breathtaking natural beauty and vibrant ethnic minority cultures. This isn't just a hike; it's a comprehensive, transformative odyssey into a region defined by its majestic mountains, lush valleys, and the resilient spirit of its diverse people.

Your grand adventure begins as you venture towards Mai Chau Valley, a picturesque area renowned for its verdant landscapes and the welcoming hospitality of the White Thai ethnic minority. From the moment you arrive, you'll be enveloped by a scene of tranquil beauty – traditional stilt houses nestled amidst vibrant green rice paddies, surrounded by towering limestone karsts. Here, you'll begin your invigorating multi-day trekking experience, exploring the valley's charm on foot, passing through charming villages, and observing the daily rhythm of rural life. You'll witness the simplicity and beauty of their daily existence, from cultivating rice to weaving intricate textiles.

From Mai Chau, your journey seamlessly extends into the captivating Pu Luong Nature Reserve, a true hidden gem nestled in Thanh Hoa Province. This extensive protected area is celebrated for its pristine natural beauty, which includes iconic terraced rice fields that cascade down verdant hillsides, traditional water wheels dotting tranquil streams, and dense primary forests teeming with life. The trekking in Pu Luong is designed to immerse you fully in this spectacular environment, requiring a good level of physical fitness and an adventurous mindset. You'll navigate varied terrain, from gentle slopes and valley floors to more challenging climbs to panoramic viewpoints, promising an exhilarating sense of accomplishment with every step. Each day brings new vistas and discoveries, including hidden waterfalls, unique flora, and perhaps even glimpses of rare fauna that call this reserve home.

The true essence of this extended tour lies in its profound cultural immersion through authentic homestays. For multiple nights, you will be warmly welcomed into the homes of local ethnic minority communities, primarily the Thai and Muong people. These villages, nestled deep within the valleys and on the hillsides, have largely preserved their traditional way of life, ancient customs, and unique languages. This is a rare and intimate opportunity to live alongside your hosts, share simple yet delicious home-cooked meals prepared over open fires, and participate in daily village activities. You'll witness their traditional farming methods, vibrant textile weaving (such as the famous brocades), and perhaps even their ancient rituals. This direct interaction fosters mutual respect and provides an unparalleled glimpse into a world where time seems to slow down, offering insights that no textbook or documentary ever could.

Beyond the natural and cultural richness, this adventure incorporates a variety of unique experiences. You'll have opportunities to explore local markets, witness traditional crafts being made by skilled artisans, and understand regional agricultural practices, further enriching your journey. The serene beauty of the landscapes provides ample opportunities for stunning photography, capturing the tranquil villages, the endless green and golden hues of the rice fields, and the genuine warmth of the local people.

Throughout this extensive 10-day expedition, you will be accompanied by expert, English-speaking local guides from Golden Trail Travel. More than just navigators, your guides are cultural ambassadors, fluent in local dialects and possessing intimate knowledge of the region's history, its diverse ethnic groups, and the intricacies of the trekking routes. They will be your bridge to meaningful interactions, ensuring your safety, enriching your understanding, and revealing hidden gems along the way.

Golden Trail Travel is deeply committed to responsible and sustainable tourism. This "Trekking from Mai Chau to Pu Luong Nature Reserve" tour is designed to directly benefit the local communities you visit, providing crucial economic opportunities and supporting the preservation of their unique cultural heritage. We ensure that your presence is positive, minimizes environmental impact, and contributes to the well-being of the villagers and the conservation of Vietnam's pristine natural environment. Return from this journey not just with incredible photos, but with a profound sense of accomplishment, a deeper understanding of Vietnam's resilient mountain communities, and enduring memories of a truly fantastic and unparalleled adventure.

Trip Map

Highlight

Your Comprehensive 10-Day Mai Chau to Pu Luong Trek

 

  • Extensive Multi-Day Hiking: Embark on a challenging and rewarding 10-day hike, traversing the stunning landscapes from the picturesque Mai Chau Valley to the pristine Pu Luong Nature Reserve, exploring diverse terrain, from terraced fields to dense forests and serene valleys.

  • Immersive Ethnic Minority Homestays: Experience profound cultural exchange with multiple overnight stays in authentic villages of White Thai and Muong ethnic groups. Live alongside families, share traditional meals, and participate in daily life, gaining unparalleled cultural insights.

  • Witness Iconic Terraced Rice Fields: Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of cascading terraced rice fields in both Mai Chau and Pu Luong, especially vibrant during planting or harvest seasons, showcasing centuries of ingenious agricultural practices.

  • Explore Pu Luong Nature Reserve: Discover the untouched natural beauty of Pu Luong, including its unique traditional water wheels, hidden waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna within a protected area.

  • Authentic Cultural Immersion: Beyond homestays, engage in direct interactions with various local communities, observing their traditional farming, vibrant textile weaving, unique stilt-house architecture, and local customs.

  • Panoramic Landscape Photography: Capture stunning, expansive views of rolling mountains, terraced valleys, traditional stilt houses, and the peaceful daily life, creating incredible photographic memories that last a lifetime.

  • Expert Local Guide Throughout: Travel with highly knowledgeable and experienced English-speaking local guides who are fluent in local dialects. Your guides ensure safety, provide deep cultural context, and facilitate meaningful connections.

  • Off-the-Beaten-Path Exploration: This tour takes you to remote and authentic areas of Northern Vietnam, offering a genuine and exclusive insight into rural life and untouched nature, away from the typical tourist crowds.

  • Responsible & Sustainable Tourism: Your participation directly supports local communities by providing crucial economic opportunities and aiding in the preservation of their cultural heritage and the pristine natural environment.

  • Digital Detox & Personal Growth: Disconnect from modern life and reconnect with nature and yourself, embracing the peace, challenge, and immense beauty of remote mountain environments.

Service

HOTELS
Homestay
Economy 2*+ Hotels
Superior 3* Hotels
First Class 4* Hotels
Deluxe 5* Hotels
Luxury 5*++ Hotels

Notes:
*All prices are based on per adult, in Double/Twin sharing
Surcharge will be applied for single traveler or single room request

Important Notes:
HOTELS, PROGRAMS & SCHEDULES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE

GUIDE/LEADER:
English speaking guide. French , Germany , Spanish, Italian, Russian  speaking guide can be arranged with on request.

Your Perfect Trekking Adventure, Crafted Just for You Across Asia

At Golden Trail Travel, we believe every journey should be as unique as the traveler. As Asia's premier trekking tour operator, we specialize in creating bespoke hiking experiences that perfectly match your desires and budget, wherever your wanderlust takes you.

Our dedicated team—comprising experienced trekking guides, knowledgeable local experts, reliable drivers, insightful tour consultants, and passionate mountain specialists—is committed to ensuring your adventure is seamless, safe, and truly unforgettable.

Whether you're exploring solo, enjoying a family getaway, or embarking on a group expedition, we're here to design a trip that's exclusively yours. The itineraries you see are just a starting point; consider them a canvas upon which we'll paint your ideal Asian trekking tour. We invite you to share your ideas, tell us your preferences, and let us know your budget. We'll meticulously customize an existing itinerary or craft a brand-new program from the ground up, adding or excluding elements until it's absolutely perfect for you.

Ready to start planning your dream trekking adventure across Asia? Share your requirements with us today, and let's create memories that will last a lifetime.

Inclusion

Exclusion

Itinerary

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Day 1: Hanoi Arrival
Greetings from Vietnam. When you arrive at Noi Bai International Airport, a driver and guide from Golden Trail Travel will meet you and take you to the hotel located in the center of Hanoi. Hanoi, the historic and vibrant capital of Vietnam, is home to some of Asia's most remarkable colonial buildings as well as a distinct old world charm. Following check-in, unwind on your own while discussing the schedule for the next few days with our guide. Take a cyclo ride through the Old Quarter's busy streets to explore Hanoi's blend of modern and historical charm. You will be greeted with a special welcome meal at a traditional Vietnamese restaurant following the trip. Spend the night in Hanoi.
Summary:
Activities:Transferring
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals:D
Transferring from Airport - Hotel
Day 2: Hanoi - Mai Chau, light trek to Hang Kia village
At 8:00, we leave your hotel in Hanoi and travel to Mai Chau town in the province of Hoa Binh. This three-hour drive is quite lovely. After arriving in Poom Coom village and having lunch in a traditional stilt house, we will travel for an hour to Xa Linh village, where we will start our three-hour trek through picturesque villages. This evening, we're going to Hang Kia hamlet, which is home to the H'mong minority. Enjoy dinner and spend the night at the traditional home of an H'mong family, nestled in a lovely valley surrounded by peach orchards.
Summary:
Activities:Transferring and Trekking 
Accommodation: Ecohomestay
Meals:B/L/D
Trekking time 3-4hours: / distance 9- 12km
Day 3: Hang Kia Trek to Cun Pheo village Bao La Village - Buoc Village
Have breakfast and explore a far-off area. Utilizing the local paths, trek through lush rainforests and across corn fields before descending into the Mai Chau valley below. The walk is roughly five hours long and has some difficult sections. We'll eat lunch at the neighborhood stand at the bottom of the valley. From here, we travel through a number of villages home to ethnic minorities until arriving in Cun Pheo village, where we will spend the night. by the late afternoon. Spend some time exploring this quaint tiny white Thai town on foot. We have the honor of being guests in a traditional Thai stilt house tonight. Before going to bed, have dinner and taste some homemade rice wine.
Summary:
Activities:Trekking from Village - Village
Accommodation: homestay
Meals:B/L/D
Trekking time 7- 8 hours: / distance 16km
Day 4: Buoc Village Trek to Xam Khoe village
We have a simple day of trekking ahead of us today. traveling through a number of Thai hamlets that are encircled by picturesque rice farms. Traveling with a picnic lunch and arriving in the afternoon to Xam Khoe village. After taking a few glasses of the local maize wine, enjoy dinner with our hosts and retire for the night. After spending some free time exploring the area or chatting with locals, get a good night's sleep.
Summary:
Activities:Trekking from Village - Village
Accommodation: Ecohomestay
Meals:B/L/D
Trekking time 7- 8 hours: / distance 15km
Day 5: Xam Khoe trek on to Pu Luong, Ban Hang village
After breakfast, bid the hosts farewell. Trek from one village to the next through picturesque rice terraces, pausing briefly before arriving at Mai Hich village. Take a quick trip down the Ma River. When you get to Co Luong, enjoy a boat ride up the Ma River. Savor the magnificent views on both banks of the river. Get off the boat and continue your 2- to 3-hour trek through charming hillside towns and the stunning rice paddies of Pu Luong Nature Reserve to Ban Hangvillage, which is arguably the most picturesque location in Vietnam. It is advised to take a leisurely stroll through the village and observe the locals as they go about their everyday lives. Alternatively, unwind at one of the three eco-homestays that FFI (Flora and Fauna International) has organized in collaboration with the community.  arrival in the afternoon in Ban Hangvillage. Here, the family who owns the eco-stilt house welcomes us to spend our first night there. After traditional meal, there's time to relax and have a shower. Stay the night here.
Summary:
Activities:Trekking and boat trip
Accommodation: Ecohomestay
Meals:BL/D
Trekking time 7- 8 hours: / distance 17km
Day 6: Hang village - Trek to Kho Muong
Because daily life here begins early, get up early and watch, or perhaps participate in, their morning activities. Take a stroll through Hang village before enjoying breakfast prepared by Thai people, and then at 8 a.m. begin our trek to Kho Muong Village. Spend about five to six hours walking.While the first hiking trail is challenging due to its steep climbs and numerous stream crossings, the second trail is truly magnificent, offering breathtaking views of the valley, rice terraces, lush rain forest, and streams.After stopping for a picnic lunch in Eo Ken village en route, arrive in Kho Muong, where the scenery is arguably the most picturesque in all of Vietnam. Wander through the hamlet and observe the people going about their everyday lives, or unwind in one of the three eco-homestays that FFI (Flora and Fauna International) has masterfully established in collaboration with the surrounding villages.Kindly be kind and kind; this place has such beautiful nature.arrival in the afternoon in the village of Kho Muong.
Summary:
Activities:Trekking from Village - Village
Accommodation: Ecohomestay
Meals:B/L/D
Trekking time 7- 8 hours: / distance 18km  
Day 7: Kho Muong - Trek to Hieu village
Get up and participate in the morning activities with your host family because daily life here begins early. By 8:00, we will have breakfast and begin our hike. We'll be walking for five to six hours today, or roughly fifteen to seventeen kilometers. The initial portion of the hike passes through picturesque valleys and pristine communities. Proceed to the next villages. Trekking through the picturesque terraces and karst landscapes can be challenging due to the steep climbs and stream crossings. The second section is magnificent, with stunning views of the rice farms and valley. Take a quick break for lunch at a nearby eatery or while traveling. Around 6:00, we arrive in Hieu village. After a brief break, we explore the lovely waterfall next to the village, return to the homestay for dinner, and spend the night in a Muong.
Summary:
Activities:Trekking from village - Village
Accommodation: Ecohomestay
Meals:B/L/D
Trekking time 7- 8 hours: / distance 17km
Day 8: Hieu village - trek to Nua village
At the homestay, breakfast. 8:00 a.m. We embark on an additional day of trekking, covering around 10 to 12 km (~5 – 6 hours) between villages, passing by pleasant, refreshing streams. After a little stop for lunch along the way, we follow the traditional route through rice terraces to reach our homestay, where we spend the night, have dinner, and take a shower.
Summary:
Activities:Trekking from Village - Village
Accommodation: Ecohomestay
Meals:B/L/D
Trekking time 5-6hours: / distance 12km
Day 9: Nua Village Hike to Son village
After breakfast, depart from Nua village. Set out on a full-day hike that will take us around 15 km deeper into the Pu Luong Nature Reserve. On the way, have a picnic lunch. Moving on, we pass through settlements of different ethnicities. In Son village, we complete our day with a stunning sunset (weather permitting). We spend the evening and night at our Thai guesthouse.
Summary:
Activities:Trekking from village - Village
Accommodation: Ecohomestay
Meals:B/L/D
Trekking time 5-6hours: / distance 14km
Day 10: Son Village Trek to Ton village then busto Hanoi
After your guide prepares breakfast, you go out on foot around 8:00. We have an easy day planned today, with smallups and downs through the Pu Luong jungle and rice terraces. It takes us roughly 2.5 hours to reach Ton village.There, our driver will be waiting to take us to the town of Muong Khen for lunch. Reach Hanoi in the late afternoon and depart from there.
Summary:
Activities:Trekking and Transferring back to Hanoi
Accommodation: 
Meals:BL/D
Trekking time 3-4  hours: / distance9- 12km

FAQS

1. What types of tours does Golden Trail Travel offer?

Answer: Golden Trail Travel specializes in offering a wide range of travel packages to Vietnam and other Indochina countries such as Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Indonesia, China, and Malaysia. We offer themed tours including Classic Highlights, Cycling, Trekking, Beach Holidays, Luxury Honeymoon, Short Trips, Family, Off The Beaten Track, Multi-Country, Motorbiking, Veteran, Food, Students, Luxury, Golf, Photography, Cooking Class, Bird Watching, Indochina Cruises, Kayaking, Muslim-friendly tours, Offroad 4x4WD, Indochina MICE Travel, Cave Expedition, and Helicopter tours.

2. How can I book a tour with Golden Trail Travel?

Answer: You can book a tour by contacting us directly via phone, email, or by filling out the contact form on our website. Our team of travel experts will advise and assist you in designing a suitable itinerary.

3. Can tours be customized?

Answer: Absolutely! We understand that every traveler has unique preferences. Golden Trail Travel is happy to customize tour packages to fit your specific needs, interests, and budget.

4. Does Golden Trail Travel provide visa support services?

Answer: Depending on your nationality and the destination, we may provide guidance or assistance with the necessary visa procedures. Please contact us for more detailed information.

5. What makes Golden Trail Travel different from other travel agencies?

Answer: We are committed to delivering authentic and unique travel experiences in Vietnam and Indochina. With a team of knowledgeable local experts, meticulously designed tour packages, and dedicated customer care, we ensure every trip is a memorable journey.

6. What should I prepare before the trip?

Answer: We will provide you with a detailed checklist of what to prepare, including information on luggage, appropriate clothing for the weather and local culture, essential personal items, and health advice.

7. What is Golden Trail Travel's cancellation policy?

Answer: Our cancellation policy will be clearly stated in the terms and conditions when you book a tour. Please refer to this information or contact us for specific details.

8. Where can I find information about travel safety and health?

Answer: We prioritize the safety and health of our travelers. Before your trip, we will provide information and advice regarding health, travel insurance, and safety measures at the destination.

9. Can I request a tour guide who speaks Vietnamese or a specific language?

Answer: Yes, we can arrange tour guides who speak Vietnamese or other common languages (such as English, French, German, Spanish, etc.) upon your request and subject to availability. Please inform us of your language preference when booking your tour.

10. Does Golden Trail Travel offer travel insurance?

Answer: We highly recommend all travelers purchase comprehensive travel insurance before departure. While we do not directly provide insurance, we can advise on suitable insurance types and the importance of having coverage during your trip

11. How can I pay for my tour?

Answer: We accept various payment methods, including bank transfers, credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express), and some online payment options. Detailed information on payment options and payment schedules will be provided upon confirmation of your tour booking.

12. Does Golden Trail Travel offer tours for solo travelers?

Answer: Yes, we have tour options suitable for solo travelers, including group joining tours or specially designed private tours. Please contact us so we can advise on the best package for you.

13. Are the tours child-friendly or suitable for seniors?

Answer: We offer many family-friendly tour packages and can adjust itineraries to suit travelers of all ages, including children and seniors. We will advise on the difficulty level, travel time, and activities appropriate for each member of your family.

14. Where can I read reviews from previous customers?

Answer: You can find customer reviews and testimonials on our website (if a review section is available), social media pages, or reputable travel platforms like TripAdvisor.

15. What are Golden Trail Travel's sustainability or responsible tourism policies?

Answer: We are committed to practicing responsible and sustainable tourism. We constantly strive to minimize our environmental impact, respect local cultures, and contribute positively to the communities where we operate.

16. What happens if there's an emergency during the trip?

Answer: Your safety is our top priority. Golden Trail Travel has a 24/7 emergency support team. We will provide emergency contact numbers and detailed instructions before your trip. Our guides and local partners are trained to handle emergency situations professionally.

17. Are my payment methods secure?

Answer: Absolutely secure. We use highly encrypted online payment gateways and comply with international standards for data security. Your personal and financial information will be strictly protected.

18. What support will I receive during the trip?

Answer: Yes. Throughout your trip, you will always have the support of your local guide, driver, and Golden Trail Travel's operation team. We will provide a 24/7 support hotline so you can contact us anytime if you have any issues or need assistance.

19. What is included and not included in the tour price?

Answer: Each tour package has clear details on included services (e.g., accommodation, transportation, meals as per itinerary, entrance fees to attractions, tour guide) and exclusions (e.g., international flights, visas, travel insurance, drinks, tips, personal expenses). You will receive a detailed itinerary and an inclusion/exclusion list before confirming your tour booking.

20. What is the typical group size for Golden Trail Travel tours?

Answer: Our tour group sizes can vary depending on the type of tour. For join-in tours, we try to keep the numbers small to ensure a personalized and comfortable experience. We also offer private tours for families or groups of friends upon request.

21. Whom can I contact if I have questions or need assistance before departure?

Answer: Before departure, you can contact our team of consultants via phone, email, or online chat. We are always ready to answer any questions and help you prepare best for your trip.

22. How is Golden Trail Travel committed to sustainable and responsible tourism?

Answer: We are strongly committed to sustainable tourism. This is reflected in our collaboration with responsible local partners, supporting local communities, encouraging travelers to respect culture and environment, and minimizing negative impacts on destinations. Our goal is to benefit both travelers and local people.

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Pricing Notes

The above price is based on a private tour (Group of 2). It's more reasonable withbigger group size

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