Embark on a 4-day journey through the hidden gems of northern Vietnam, traveling from Hanoi to Da Bac, Mai Chau, and Pu Luong. This adventure takes you deep into rural landscapes, where you'll encounter the secluded Sung Village, home to the Dao Tien community, the riverside village of Da Bia, where the Muong people live, and the picturesque Mai Chau valley, where the Thai ethnic group resides. Immerse yourself in the region's natural beauty, from terraced fields to lush valleys, while discovering the unique traditions and cultures of these ethnic communities.
Experience a truly off-the-beaten-path adventure with highlights that include a serene boat trip on the Da Reservoir, often called the “Halong Bay in the mountains,” cycling through the scenic Mai Chau valley, and a peaceful bamboo raft ride in Pu Luong. Along the way, savor the flavors of local cuisine, connecting with the land and its people through authentic and meaningful encounters. This journey promises an unforgettable exploration of northern Vietnam’s cultural and natural treasures.
At 8:30 AM, our tour guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi. We'll head to Da Bac, an off-the-beaten-path gem about 100 km southwest of Hanoi. Da Bac, nestled in the mountains of Hoa Binh province, is famous for its breathtaking natural landscapes and remote hill tribe villages. If you're seeking an authentic off-the-beaten-path experience, Da Bac is the perfect destination.
After a scenic 4-hour drive through the north-western Vietnamese countryside, we'll arrive at Sung Village, home to the Dzao Tien minority people. The village, with around 78 households and 400 residents, mainly relies on farming and forest plantations for their livelihoods.
We'll embark on a 3 km walk to discover the village. This walk will take you to various points of interest, such as the Sung Cave and the forest. Your local guide will spin tales, providing insights into identifying different plant varieties, some of which harbor medicinal secrets.
We will also stop at the community house, where locals teach the traditional Dao language to younger generations, preserving this vital aspect of their culture. Back in the village, you will visit a local Dao family and may have the chance to observe the art of creating patterns using beeswax and discover the process of indigo dyeing.
We'll hop back into our car for a short ride to Da Bia village, an ideal spot for travelers looking to delve into wild nature and experience genuine indigenous culture.
Enjoy a leisurely 3 km walk to the boat pier, where we’ll board a local boat for a scenic trip to Suoi Lon pier. Along the way, soak in the breathtaking views of Hoa Binh Lake, often called the “Halong Bay of the mountains” for its stunning natural beauty.
Our driver will be waiting for you at Suoi Lon boat pier to take you to Mai Chau.
Explore Mai Hich village by bike (optional) or walk along the trails and concrete roads. You will be seduced by the gorgeous landscapes as the villages, rice fields, mountains and streams are in perfect harmony with one another. Do not miss the opportunity to communicate with the friendly local people who are always willing to welcome you into their house to enjoy a cup of tea.
Enjoy a short transfer to Thanh Son, and from there, descend to Kho Muong village, the farthest village in Pu Luong. Nestled in a picturesque valley surrounded by terraced rice fields and limestone mountains, Kho Muong village is home to the Thai ethnic group. Along the way, admire the beauty of the terraced rice fields and engage with the local ethnic communities.
Lunch will be served at a local family's home in Kho Muong.
In the afternoon, our trip continues as we follow the trail used by villagers on their way to the fields for work. The hike leads through the forest and cassava fields until you reach the charming village of Ui, where our driver will be ready to pick us up and bring us to our accommodation in Pu Luong.
Head to Chieng Lau, a picturesque area renowned for its lush rice fields and bamboo water wheels. Here, embark on a scenic walk, allowing you to engage with local residents and catch a glimpse of the bamboo water wheels used for irrigation.
Pick up by driver then transfer back to Hanoi. On the way, visit the sacred fish stream in Cam Luong. This place is well known for a special kind of fish that populate the stream. It's called a sacred fish for the many mysterious stories created around this special creature. Continue travelling to Hanoi, check in your hotel in the late afternoon.