This trip to the north west highlands of Mai Chau offers a balance of
cultural and physical activities set amongst some of northern Vietnam's most
stunning scenery. We spend 5 nights in the ethnic minority villages walking an
average of 5 hours a day. We trek for four days through villages in the Mai Chau
area and overnight in White Thai and H'mong villages where we have the
opportunity to observe the lives of the minority peoples. From the mountainous
region of Mai Chau, we travel back to the capital, Hanoi. Travelers who prefer
to get off the beaten track often prefer Mai Chau to Sapa.
Day 1: Hanoi - Mai Chau - Hang Kia Village
We depart Hanoi at 08:00 heading west to Hoa Binh Province where we stop for
refreshments. From our stop we climb towards the Mai Chau valley, about another
two hours away, stopping on the way to take in the spectacular scenery.
Following lunch in Mai Chau town we drive to the White Thai village of Sa Linh
from where we commence a 3-hour trek to the village of Hang Kia. Our hosts for
this evening will be the H'mong minority people. Whilst enjoying their
hospitality, we will discover a little more about their lives and culture.
Tonight's accommodation could probably be a little more rustic than you would be
used to.
(Lunch and Dinner included).
Day 2: Hang Kia - Van Village
This morning we have a 7-hour trek to Van Village, home of the White Thai
people. The trek will take you through some unforgettable scenery and provide us
with an opportunity to closely observe rural life in Vietnam. A picnic lunch
will be provided along the way. Arriving in Van village by mid to late afternoon
there will be time to take a stroll down to the nearby stream. Our hosts for
this evening will treat us to a fine meal and stories of life in Van village.
They will also share their home brewed rice wine and toast our good health and
happiness.
(Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included)
Day 3: Van village - Xo Village
After breakfast we spend the morning strolling around the surrounding
villages and meeting villagers along the way. After a morning's exploring we
return to Van village for lunch. With lunch finished there will time for a short
siesta or stroll down to the river before embarking on a 3 hour walk to the
village of Xo (pronounced Soh). This evening following dinner, we will have the
opportunity for more cultural interaction, before retiring for our second night
in a stilt house.
(Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included)
Day 4: Xo village Poong Cong Village
Bidding farewell to our new friends after breakfast, it is a five-hour trek
from Xo to Poong Cong village where we have lunch. We have the afternoon free to
wander around the picturesque Thai villages or maybe wander into Mai Chau town
itself. This evening is spent in Poong Cong village.
(Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included)
Day 5: Poong Con Village - Nanh Village
From Poong Cong we drive to the Da River, 45 minutes from Mai Chau town,
where we board our boat for a one-hour river cruise. From our drop off point we
have a 2-hour trek to Nanh village, inhabited by the Zao people. Stopping for a
picnic lunch on the way we will arrive by mid to late afternoon for our fifth
and final night in the villages.
(Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included)
Day 6: Mai Chau- Hanoi
Departing the village at around 08:00. We retrace our steps back to the boat
for a cruise back to meet with our waiting vehicle and the trip back to Hanoi.
We will arrive back in Hanoi by approximately 13.00
(Breakfast, lunch included)
