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North-West Loop: Mai Chau – Pu Luong – Ninh Binh in 4 Days
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Overview
From misty valleys to jungle-covered hills and ancient capitals, the Mai Chau Pu Luong Ninh Binh tour links together three of northern Vietnam’s most rewarding landscapes. You’ll pedal past rice fields in Mai Chau, trek hidden mountain paths in Pu Luong, and float through limestone caves in Trang An. Along the way, stay in cozy homestays, meet ethnic Thai communities, and discover a slower, more peaceful side of Vietnam — far from the usual crowds, yet full of life and history.
Highlights
- Cycle through the picturesque Mai Chau valley and learn about White Thai culture.
- Trek through Pu Luong Nature Reserve’s pristine jungle and vibrant rice terraces.
- Visit Pho Doan local market (on Thursdays and Sundays) for a glimpse of rural trading life
- Enjoy a peaceful boat ride through caves and karst peaks in the UNESCO-listed Trang An area
- Stay in charming, eco-friendly homestays and enjoy local specialties.
Price & Availability
Questions or Special Requests?
Not sure about something, or want to customize this tour? We’re happy to help—just reach out!
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Book directly with a local Vietnamese travel agency
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Local Support
Local team in Vietnam for questions and on-site assistance
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Itinerary
Day 1 :
Hanoi to Mai Chau
Lunch, Dinner
Start :
Pick up from Hanoi Old Quarter
Between 6:30 and 7:00 AM, you’ll be picked up from your hotel in the Old Quarter to begin the journey to Mai Chau. It’s about a 4-hour scenic drive through the countryside, giving you your first glimpse of rural northern Vietnam.
Late Morning :
Arrive in Mai Chau
Around 11:00 AM, you’ll reach Mai Chau — a peaceful valley surrounded by rice fields and home to the Thai ethnic minority. After checking in to your stilt-house accommodation, you’ll enjoy a traditional lunch featuring local mountain specialties.
Early Afternoon :
Short break or local walk
Relax by the pool or take a short walk through the nearby lanes and rice fields to get a feel for village life.
Afternoon :
Cycling through the valley
Hop on a bicycle to explore the Mai Chau valley. You’ll cycle past rice paddies, bamboo houses, and quiet village paths. Along the way, you’ll visit local brocade workshops where Thai women weave traditional fabrics. You’re welcome to browse or pick up a handmade souvenir.
Lunch, Dinner
Late Afternoon :
Return and tea break
Head back to the homestay and enjoy a quiet tea break as the day winds down.
Day 2 :
Mai Chau to Pu Luong
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Morning :
Transfer to Pu Luong
After an early breakfast, you’ll drive deeper into the mountains toward Pu Luong Nature Reserve. Your first stop is Pu Luong Home to drop off your bags before starting the day's adventure.
Mid-Morning :
Optional stop at Pho Doan market
If today is Thursday or Sunday, you’ll visit the local Pho Doan market — a gathering point for nearby ethnic communities to trade produce, textiles, and household goods.
Late Morning :
Trek through Pu Luong
Your trek begins on a small dirt trail leading through jungle, isolated hamlets, and terraced hillsides. You’ll pass by local houses before reaching the upper section of Hieu village, with sweeping views of the valley.
Midday :
Waterfall break
Make your way down to a small waterfall tucked into the forest. Depending on the season, you can go for a swim or explore the surrounding area on foot.
Breakfast, Lunch
Enjoy a home-cooked lunch at a traditional stilt house run by a local family. The meal features ingredients grown right in the garden.
Afternoon :
Rest and return
After lunch and some time to relax in the village, you’ll head back to your accommodation in Pu Luong for the evening.
Day 3 :
Pu Luong to Ninh Binh
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Morning :
Trek to Kho Muong Village and Bat Cave
After breakfast, start your trek through quiet alleys beside Thai stilt houses. You’ll reach panoramic viewpoints overlooking lush rice terraces, then descend toward the remote Kho Muong Village. Here you can explore the village and, weather permitting, enter the nearby Bat Cave.
Midday :
Check out and lunch
Return to your lodge, check out, and enjoy a final lunch in Pu Luong before moving on.
Afternoon :
Transfer to Ninh Binh
Say goodbye to Pu Luong’s forested hills and head to Ninh Binh, often called “Halong Bay on land.” Upon arrival at your homestay, you’ll have free time to relax by the pool or enjoy the peaceful countryside.
Day 4 :
Hoa Lu – Trang An – Mua Cave
Breakfast, Lunch
Morning :
Cycle to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
Start the day with a bike ride to Hoa Lu — Vietnam’s 10th-century royal capital. Explore the ancient temples and learn about the Dinh and Le dynasties who once ruled here.
Late Morning :
Boat tour in Trang An
Next, you’ll visit the UNESCO-listed Trang An landscape complex. Enjoy a slow, scenic boat ride through limestone caves, jungle-covered cliffs, and quiet temples — a highlight of any Ninh Binh visit.
Midday :
Climb Mua Cave viewpoint
If time allows, stop by Mua Cave and climb the steps for one of the best panoramic views of the Trang An region.
Afternoon :
Return to Hanoi
After the day’s exploration, relax on the drive back to Hanoi. You’ll arrive in the early evening, around 6:30 PM.
- All transportation mentioned in the itinerary
- Meals as specified: 3 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners
- English-speaking local guides
- Accommodation as mentioned
- Entrance fees
- Activities listed in the itinerary
- 1 bottle of water per person per day
- International flights
- Drinks
- Activities not mentioned in the itinerary
- Tips
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
How difficult are the cycling and trekking activities?
The cycling and trekking activities are moderate in difficulty, suitable for most travelers. The cycling route in Mai Chau is mostly flat, while the treks in Pu Luong involve some uphill and downhill paths. No prior experience is required, and the pace can be adjusted to suit your fitness level.
Do I need prior trekking or cycling experience?
No prior experience is necessary for this tour. It is suitable for beginners, and the activities are designed to be accessible to everyone. Our guides will ensure you feel comfortable throughout the tour.
What should I pack for the tour?
We recommend comfortable walking or cycling shoes, weather-appropriate clothing (light layers for warm weather and a rain jacket just in case), sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a camera to capture the beautiful scenery. Don’t forget a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
Is this tour suitable for families or travelers with children?
Yes, this tour can be enjoyed by families and travelers of all ages. While the activities are moderate, children accustomed to outdoor activities may enjoy the cycling and trekking. Please let us know if you have specific concerns regarding children’s participation.
What happens if it rains during the tour?
The tour continues in light rain, so bring a raincoat or poncho. In case of heavy rain that affects safety (especially for the trekking sections), we may adjust the route or schedule.
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- Customization Request
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+84 358 345 100
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