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Trekking Tour in Mai Chau Pu Luong Nature Reserve 12 Days

  • CODE: GDT653
  • Private Tour
  • Duration: 8 - 12 days
  • Price from: Contact
  • Route: Vietnam - Ha Noi - Pu Luong - Mai Chau

Overview

Embark on an Unforgettable 12-Day Trekking Tour in Mai Chau & Pu Luong Nature Reserve

 

Prepare for an extraordinary and profoundly immersive 12-day, 11-night expedition into the serene and culturally rich heartlands of Northern Vietnam with Golden Trail Travel's "Trekking Tour in Mai Chau & 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.

From Mai Chau, your journey 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. 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 and unique flora and fauna.

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, 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 of the rice fields, and the genuine warmth of the local people.

Throughout this extensive 12-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 Tour in Mai Chau & Pu Luong Nature Reserve" 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 12-Day Mai Chau & Pu Luong Trek

 

  • Extensive Multi-Day Hiking: Embark on a challenging and rewarding 12-day hike through the stunning landscapes of Mai Chau Valley and 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 pristine 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:Pickingup and transferring to hotel
Accommodation: 
Meals:/D
Transferring time: 35 km

Day 2: Hanoi – Mai Chau – Hang Kia
After a filling breakfast at the hotel, we set off early in the morning and travel 4 hours along beautiful route to Mai Chau. Once there, we have a great lunch at Poom Coom Village and divide our bags for the days we will be trekking. Meet our local trekking guide and support staff. We depart from Mai Chau and go to Xa Linh, from where we begin our hiking to the colorful Hmong settlements of Hang Kia.We hike to Hang Kia via a beautiful trail that winds through a long, isolated valley and small pathways. We stay the night with Hmong People after having dinner with them when we arrive.
 Summary:
Activities:Transferring anf Trekking from Village - Village
Accommodation: Ecohomestay
Meals:B/L/D
Trekking time 3-4  hours: / distance 12km
Day 3: Hang Kia trek Cun Pheo– Buoc Village
After having a wonderful breakfast with the hosts and bidding them farewell, we begin our new trekking day by passing through a quiet village and cornfields. After a few hours of hiking in a gorgeous disturbed forest, we descend steeply into a stream and enter a broad, lush valley that is inhabited by minority Thai people. If there has been recent rain, the slope downhill could be difficult. Across the valley floor, picturesque towns are interspersed with rice fields and vegetable farms. After arriving to level ground, we will go to Bao La and Van village, where we will spend the night, along a jeep trail and village roads.Spend the evening and night with Thai Minorities.
 Summary:
Activities:Hiking from Village - Village
Accommodation: Ecohomestay
Meals:B/L/D
Trekking time 7 -8  hours: / distance 18km
Day 4: Cun Pheo – Sam Khoe– Mai Hich
Get up early to take part in the local market; you'll amaze people there with your simplicity and friendliness as they deal with their own productions to exchange the necessities of existence. Return to the homestay and have breakfast. Once we bid our host farewell, we start our hike through the hamlet, over the suspension bridge, descend to the valley, and continue on a single track and dirt route until we reach Sam Khoe. Magnificent panoramic splendor, a beautiful limestone mountain, and green rice terrace paddy await you along the route. Make stops along the route to see the local clinic and school, engage with the Thai people to learn more about their culture, and then check in and enjoy dinner with the family when you arrive in Mai Hich. Savor a musical presentation paired with customary Thai dancing.
Summary:
Activities:Hiking from Village - Village
Accommodation: Ecohomestay
Meals:B/L/D
Trekking time 7 -8  hours: / distance 18km
Day 5: Sam Khoe – Mai Hich- Hang Village
We bid the hosts farewell after enjoying some delectable pancakes and banana cake. We then start our trip along the canal, passing charming towns, verdant rice fields, and intriguing mountain ranges, ending in Mai Hich commune for a picnic. After lunch, we continue walking to the main road and make a quick transfer to Co Luong.After a two-hour boat ride down the Ma River to Ban Sai Village, we hike an additional six kilometers to Hang Village, which is located in the Phu Luong Nature Reserve.Have dinner and spend the night with minority Thai people.
 Summary:
Activities:Hiking from Village - Village
Accommodation: Ecohomestay
Meals:B/L/D
Trekking time 7 -8  hours: / distance 18km
Day 6: Hang Trek Kho Muong Village
The best approach to explore and learn about the heart of Phu Luong Nature Reserve is to go on a four-day hiking expedition. Adventurers have the opportunity to see an unspoiled area with the distinctive culture of Thai and Muong hill tribe settlements. Hiking and camping with members of hill tribes is an adaptable means of socializing and exchanging cultural values. From Homestay, we will embark on our hiking tour.We start our journey through Hang Village to the rice terrace. We traverse the stream and hike to the opposite side of the hamlet. You will be in awe of the breathtaking views of limestone panoramas, rice terraces, and the natural splendor along the route.On the way, take a picnic lunch. Following lunch, we climb for another three kilometers over an abandoned, unpaved French road, the original Hochiminh Trail, before descending into another village and following a muddy route that leads to the Kho Muong Eco homestay. When you get to Kho Muong, spend some time exploring the lovely cave nearby or strolling through the hamlet to see how Thai people live their daily lives. Spend the evening and night with the Thai family.
Summary:
Activities:Hiking from Village - Village
Accommodation: Ecohomestay
Meals:B/L/D
Trekking time 7 -8  hours: / distance 18km
Day 7: Kho Muong Village trek to Hieu Village
On our trekking route, today is the hardest and longest day. But it is endowed with a lush forest, beautiful scenery, a seductive rice terrace, and a magnificent waterfall near Hieu Village.After eating breakfast with family, we start our journey along a dirt road that passes through the heart of the Phu Luong Natural Reserve.Along the route, we may encounter various hill tribal villages, schools, and clinics. At times, we continue to hike past rice fields and across streams to reach the opposite side of the settlements. On the way, have a picnic lunch. After lunch, we carry on with our journey through Some village and arrive at Hieu village. When we get there, we'll appreciate the surrounding cool waterfall and the fresh air. Enjoy dinner and spend the night in the Hieu Village Eco Homestay.
Summary:
Activities:Hiking from Village - Village
Accommodation: Ecohomestay
Meals:B/L/D
Trekking time 7 -8  hours: / distance 14 - 18km
Day 8: Hieu village trek to Nua Village
Today is again another gorgeous day along our trekking path. To watch Thai people in their daily lives, we rise early. Alternately, help prepare pan cakes or banana cakes with honey for morning. We trek from the homestay to Hin Village after having breakfast with the host. We trek through rice paddies and towns until we reach a valley, where we continue up a slope to Nua Village. On a broad, lush valley of Thai people, you are impressive.We cool off by swimming in the communities that flow upward after we arrive at Eco Nua village. Have dinner with a local family.
Summary:
Activities:Hiking from Village - Village
Accommodation: Ecohomestay
Meals:B/L/D
Trekking time 6-7   hours: / distance 12km -17 km
Day 9: Nua village Trek to Son Village
In our trekking expedition, today is undoubtedly going to be difficult. We set out early in the morning to cross the lengthy pass and reach Phu Luong Summit. Along the way, we pass through towns inhabited by hill tribal people, rich rice terraces, and dense tropical forest. Enjoy a picnic lunch while taking in the breathtaking view of Phu Luong Mountain. After regaining our strength and stamina, we set out on a dirt trail to descend the valley, passing through a beautiful cornfield and dense forest until arriving at Son village. As soon as we arrive at Eco Village, we kick back and sip refreshing beer. Enjoy a tasty meal with a kind Thai family.
Summary:
Activities:Hiking from Village - Village
Accommodation: Ecohomestay
Meals:B/L/D
Trekking time 7 -8  hours: / distance 18km
Day 10: Son Eco Village Trek to Ton Village– Transfer to Hanoi
After eating breakfast with the hosts and bidding them farewell, we hike for half a day, starting from the homestay and going through rice paddies before turning off onto a village road and climbing up a hill to Ton Village, where our shuttle van is waiting.After packing our bags and bidding our crew farewell, we'll head to Man Duc for lunch. We enjoy a two and a half hour bus ride back to Hanoi after lunch. Enjoy a goodbye dinner at an exclusive eatery. Spend the night at Hotel.
Summary:
Activities:Hiking from Village - Village
Accommodation: Ecohomestay
Meals:B/L/D
Trekking time 2-3 hours: / distance 09km
Day 11: Hanoi city Tours

At 8:00 am, a bus and Golden Trail Travel guide will meet you in the lobby. We head out to see the Museum and Mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh. The mausoleum serves as the legendary Vietnamese revolutionary Ho Chi Minh's final resting place. It is a representation of the Vietnamese people's appreciation and reverence for President Ho Chi Minh. All that is noteworthy about Ho Chi Minh is conserved at the Ho Chi Minh Museum. The Museum was opened on September 2, 1990, to commemorate the revered President's 100th birthday. It spans five large floors. The well-known One Pillar Pagoda is nearby and merits a cursory glance. The building, which King Ly Thai To erected in 1049, has come to represent essential aspects of Hanoi culture. Following that, we will go on to see the Literature Temple and Quoc Tu Giam, which was built in 1070 and is Vietnam's first university. Its gardens and tastefully restored buildings provide a calming window into Vietnam's history. After your meal at a neighborhood eatery, we'll head to the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. This is the newest museum in Hanoi, Vietnam, and it's also arguably the biggest and most fascinating. For those who would enjoy some green space and are eager to learn about Vietnam's multiculturalism, this is worth a comprehensive visit. Next, we will make a stop at Sword Lake to explore the legend surrounding the lake and pay a visit to Ngoc Son Temple. Following your visit to Sword Lake, get on our shuttle bus and head to Richsaw Cycle Parking for an hour-long tour exploring Hanoi's historic district and the everyday lives of its residents. You can enjoy a 45-minute water puppet show in front of the water puppet theater after our richsaw drops you off.When you arrive at the hotel, our guide will be there to greet you in front of the door. Complete our services. We appreciate you joining us on this cultural tour of Hanoi.

Notes: Opening hours for the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum are 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. on weekends and Tuesday through Thursday. Mondays and Fridays are closed. Normally, the tomb is closed in October and November to allow for the preservation of Ho Chi Minh's body. On Mondays, the Ethnology Museum is closed.
 Summary:
Activities:Transferring and Visiting
Accommodation:
Meals:B/L/D
Fullday Visiting Hanoi city and landmarks

Day 12: Hanoi Departure

Enjoy free shopping till the time of your flight from the hotel after breakfast. We would like to thank you for joining us on this bike journey as we wrap up our services.
Summary:
Activities:Transfer only
Accommodation: No
Meals:B/

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

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