Visit Mai Chau: The Complete Guide

Mai Chau, located in the north of Hanoi. Carpets of rice fields in pretty checkerboards at the foot of the Tonkinese cordillera where small authentic villages are nestled.The White Thai ethnic group lives in thatched-roof stilt dwellings and is mainly busy working in the rice fields. They make Ruon Can, a local alcohol made from rice. Pedaling or hiking in this serene environment is a real pleasure and gives the opportunity to meet the inhabitants.

What to see in Mai Chau

Mai Chau offers a mix of culture and nature, from the traditional charm of Lac and Poom Coong villages to the scenic Thung Khe Pass and mysterious Mo Luong and Chieu caves. Don’t miss the peaceful Ba Khan Valley and the refreshing Go Lao Waterfall, all highlights that make your journey unforgettable.

Lac village

One of the most stunning villages in Mai Chau, Lac village sits atop a plateau, encircled by verdant mountains and terraced fields. A history of more than seven centuries and its inhabitants continue to uphold the time-honored traditions and lifestyle of the White Thai community. The wood stilt houses in a conventional fashion, still used as homestays for visitors to the area.

Poom Coong village

Located around 12 km from Mai Chau’s center and situated on the route from Mai Chau to Moc Chau. Renowned for its numerous traditional handicrafts, particularly bamboo fiber items including conical hats, stuffed animals, bags, bamboo baskets, leaf mattresses and other products.Also famous for its delicious traditional cuisine, such as rice lam, roasted pork, grilled pork belly, roasted chicken, Mai Chau fish cake and other specialties.Various entertainment activities: chicken and dog racing, cultural performances and other folk games.

Ba Khan valley

Located about 13 km southwest of the town center. Magnificent natural landscapes, high mountains, waterfalls and picturesque lakes. The terrain is diverse, from plains to mountains, where there are terraced fields and lush rice fields.Traditional craft villages such as Thai weaving village, pottery making village and woodworking village. Ta Phin cave, Ma Coc cave, Chuoi cave and Duc waterfall… stop here to enjoy the fresh, quiet space of the Vietnamese countryside.

Hai Son mural village

A popular community tourism destination. A small village, about 15 km from the center of Mai Chau.Famous for the hand painted murals on the buildings in the village, creating a large picture of beautiful colors. The paintings are hand-painted with oil paint, depicting the life, history and culture of Vietnamese people, from daily work to traditional festivals.

Thung Khe pass

One of the attractions and favorites of many tourists when visiting Mai Chau. Located on Highway 6, connecting the two territories of Hoa Binh and Thanh Hoa, with an altitude of about 1,200m above sea level. Majestic landscape, where visitors can enjoy the panoramic view of Mai Chau from a height. Adorned with the cold white patches of rocky mountains, clouds in the sky, green patches of grass and trees and points to the peaceful life of the villages. The climate is cool all year round and the weather is nice in the fall. The steep slope is quite large, especially on winding roads, requiring quite skilled steering.

Mo Luong Cave and Chieu Cave

Two large and unique cave complexes in Mai Chau. Thousands of years old stalactites, many beautiful shapes and colors:

• Mo Luong Cave: about 500m long, with many caves, low caves and walls, many stalactites and limestone.

• Chieu Cave: located right at the foot of Thanh Son hill, about 700m in length, with many caves and different heights, with many beautiful attacking and rock formations.

Go Lao Waterfall

A amazing waterfall located in Mai Chau district of Hoa Binh province in Vietnam. Situated in a remote and pristine natural setting, surrounded by lush forests and mountains. Height of around 20 meters and a width of approximately 100 meters. The water cascades down in a series of tiers, creating a mesmerizing sight and a soothing sound.

Hike along a scenic trail through the forest to reach the waterfall. The trail can be a bit challenging. Wooden bridge and a small platform at the base of the falls. A popular picnic spot, where visitors can relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings.

If you’re looking for a trip that combines relaxation with cultural discovery, a Vietnam tour with exploring Mai Chau is the perfect choice. Join us to experience lush nature, peaceful villages, and exciting activities waiting just for you

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What to do in Mai Chau

Looking for the best things to do in Mai Chau? This peaceful valley in northern Vietnam is full of unique experiences — from cycling past rice paddies and visiting local villages to discovering caves and waterfalls. Whether you’re after adventure or cultural immersion, Mai Chau has it all

Visit some ethnic minority village

Visiting the ethnic minority villages in Mai Chau is one of the most popular activities for tourists. You can explore the traditional houses on stilts, witness the daily activities of local people, and learn about their culture and customs. The most famous village is Lac Village, where you can see traditional Thai stilt houses and enjoy local crafts such as brocade weaving.

Biking along the tranquil paths

Biking is an ideal way to explore the beautiful countryside of Mai Chau. You can rent a bike and cycle along the peaceful paths between the rice paddies and enjoy the stunning scenery of the valley. There are many biking routes to choose from, ranging from easy to challenging, so you can choose one that suits your fitness level.

Trekking through the lush green fields

Trekking is another popular activity in Mai Chau, especially for those who love outdoor activities. You can trek through the lush green forests and hills of the valley, explore the rural villages, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountains and rice fields. You can also hire a local guide to show you the best trekking routes and help you learn more about the local culture and history.

Savor local food

Mai Chau is famous for its delicious local cuisine, which is a blend of Thai and Vietnamese flavors. You can try traditional dishes such as “com lam” (sticky rice cooked in bamboo tubes), “thang co” (horse meat soup), “grilled pork belly”, “Mai Chau fish cake” and many more. You can also enjoy a homestay with a local family, where you can taste authentic local dishes and learn about their culinary culture.

Watch plum and peach blossoms in full bloom

If you visit Mai Chau in the winter months, from February to April, you can witness the stunning beauty of plum and peach blossoms in full bloom. The valley is covered in a blanket of pink and white flowers and it’s a sight to behold. You can take a leisurely walk or bike ride around the valley and soak in the beauty of nature.

When to go to Mai Chau

The climate here is mild and enjoyable. The summer season is not excessively hot and the winter season is not too cold. You can travel to Mai Chau at any time of the year.

However, the most picturesque and worth visiting times of the year in Mai Chau are:

• March and April: The bauhinia variegata are in full bloom during this time, and the weather is quite pleasant. There are quite a few festivals of ethnic minorities here. This is also the most beautiful time to travel to Mai Chau, chosen by many tourists.

• October to December: As winter begins in Mai Chau, the atmosphere is cool and refreshing. The area is adorned with peach and plum blossoms. Mai Chau appears pure and white.

How many days to visit Mai Chau

If you have 1 day in Mai Chau

• Visit Lac village to learn about the culture of the Thai ethnic minority. You can see traditional stilt houses and enjoy a homestay experience.

• Biking around the valley is a great way to explore the scenic beauty of Mai Chau. You can rent a bicycle and ride around the rice fields, through small villages and to the nearby hills.

• Explore the Mai Chau valley on foot and trek through the terraced rice fields and up to the hills and mountains surrounding the valley.

• Enjoy the local food, especially dishes made with bamboo shoots and sticky rice.

• Watch a traditional performance in the evening.

If you have 2 days in Mai Chau

Day 1: Lac village

Same as day 1 of option 1

Day 2: Mo Luong Cave – Thung Khe Pass – Hai Son Mural Village – Ba Khan Valley

• Visit the Mo Luong Cave, one of the most beautiful and impressive caves in Mai Chau. You can take a guided tour to explore the underground river, stalactites and stalagmites.

• Take a motorbike tour to explore the nearby villages and scenic spots, such as the Thung Khe Pass, Hai Son Mural Village and Ba Khan Valley.

• Relax and enjoy the tranquil beauty of Mai Chau, with a book or a cup of tea at your homestay or take a leisurely walk around the village and interact with the locals.

Learn more: Explore Mai Chau 2-day itinerary : A complete itinerary guide

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Day 1: Hanoi - Thung Khe Pass – Pa Co – Pu Luong Day 2: Pu Luong - Trekking - Iconic sites Pu Luong Nature Reserve Thai villages like Don Village and Leo Village Kho Muong, Bat Cave and Hieu waterfalls Day 3: Pu Luong - Waterwheel -  Hanoi

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Where to stay in Mai Chau

Mai Chau offers a variety of stays, from rustic homestays to boutique resorts, all surrounded by stunning rice fields and mountains. Here are some of the best places to stay in Mai Chau.

Homestays in Mai Chau 

Staying at homestays in Mai Chau offers more than just a place to sleep — it’s a chance to experience authentic local life. Surrounded by lush rice fields and stilt houses, you can enjoy warm hospitality, taste traditional dishes, and immerse yourself in the daily rhythm of the Thai ethnic community

Some recommended homestays in Mai Chau: Lim's House Homestay, Mai Chau dreams homestay, Meadow Homestay, Little Mai Chau Home Stay

Mai Chau Ecolodge

 

💸 Prices: starting at $60 per night

Mai Chau Ecolodge, situated amidst picturesque rice fields and mountains, provides contemporary accommodation options with stunning views. Guests can unwind at the on-site restaurant, bar, outdoor swimming pool and spa.

Located in close proximity, Pom Coong and Lac villages are just 500 meters and 1 km away respectively. Mai Chau town center is situated at a distance of 1.5 km from the lodge.

Mai Chau lodge

 

💸 Prices: starting at $50 per night

This casual resort is situated amidst farmland, and it’s located next to Mo Luong Lake. It is approximately 1 km from Chieu Cave and 18 km from Deo Thung Khe, which offers picturesque views of the mountains.

The rooms are decorated in a warm and inviting style, and they provide views of the mountains or valley. Each room features a balcony, as well as amenities such as tea and coffee making facilities, a television, a seating area, and a private bathroom with a shower.

Mai Chau Hide Away resort

 

💸 Prices: starting at $80 per night

The Mai Chau Hideaway Resort is a resort situated in Mai Chau, which is designed to be environmentally friendly. It offers a swimming pool, a restaurant, and a bar, and guests can unwind in the garden. The guest rooms are adorned with wooden furniture and thatched roofs, which imbue the rooms with a rustic ambiance.

If you’re planning a vacation in Vietnam, make sure to visit Mai Châu, where wonderful landscapes, vibrant culture and peaceful charm await. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore this hidden gem in northern Vietnam!

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