Mai Chau Valley: A journey to nature and culture

Mai Chau Valley
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Mai Chau Valley

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Mai Chau Valley, a green gem amidst the Northwestern mountains and forests, has long been an attractive destination for those who long to escape the noisy city, find a peaceful place, and discover unique cultural beauty. Join us on the journey to discover Mai Chau, the land of stretching terraced fields, traditional stilt houses, and friendly and hospitable people.

Beauty nature is like a painting.

Mai Chau is blessed by nature with beautiful scenery, where majestic limestone mountains embrace the entire valley green. Terraces layer after layer winding along the mountainside, creating a colorful natural picture that changes with the seasons. During the rainy season, the fields are like giant mirrors reflecting the sunlight, sparkling and magical. During the ripe rice season, the whole valley wears a shiny yellow shirt heavy with heavenly pearls.

Caves are also a highlight that attracts tourists to Mai. Chau.

  • Mo Luong Cave, with a system of magical stalactites and diverse shapes, takes visitors into a magical world.

  • Chieu Cave brings a feeling of relaxation and peace with a cool stream flowing through the limestone blocks.

Cultural identity rich in Thai ethnic identity

Mai Chau is the primary residence of white Thai people, with a unique culture preserved through generations. Stilt houses are a typical architectural feature of wood, bamboo, and thatched roofs or palm leaves. Tourists can experience life in stilt houses, immersing themselves in the simple lifestyle of indigenous people.

Mai Chau cuisine is rich in flavor, mountains, and forests, with specialties such as upland sticky rice, grilled stream fish, smoked wild boar, and sour bamboo shoot soup... Visitors can also enjoy fragrant canned wine mixed with Xoe dance, the traditional dance of the Vietnamese people—Thai people express joy and community solidarity.

Immerse yourself in nature with unique experiences

  • Community tourism is a strongly developed form of tourism in Mai Chau. Visitors can participate in people's daily activities, such as growing rice, weaving, and cooking, and learn about their culture and customs.

  • Trekking is an activity that many tourists love when coming to Mai Chau. With trails through forests and valleys, visitors can explore the wild beauty of nature, conquer high peaks, and enjoy fresh air.

    Cycling is a great way to visit Mai Chau, exercising while enjoying beautiful scenery. Visitors can rent bicycles at homestays and hotels and freely explore the valley at will.

  • Kayaking on Lake Hoa Binh is an exciting experience, allowing visitors to enjoy a panoramic view of the valley from the middle of the lake, immersing themselves in poetic nature.

Time ideal place to go to Mai Chau

Mai Chau is beautiful all year round; each season has its beauty. However, spring (February - April) and autumn (September - November) are the most ideal times to come to Mai Chau.

Spring is the season of wild white flowers blooming, creating a poetic and romantic scene. Autumn is the season of ripe golden rice; the whole valley seems to be dyed a shiny yellow color, creating a beautiful natural picture.

Mai Chau - Spot destination of unforgettable experiences

Mai Chau Valley is ideal for those who love nature, want to learn about national culture and experience tourist activities. Interesting itinerary.

Come to Mai Chau to feel the captivating beauty and discover the miracles nature and people have created here.

Discover Tours

Attractions in Mai Chau Valley

What to know before visiting Mai Chau Valley

Research weather, respect local customs, pack essentials, and embrace new flavors for a fulfilling travel experience.

Note

Mai Chau is a captivating destination, but to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip, consider these essential tips:

Packing Essentials:

  • Clothing: Pack comfortable clothes suitable for trekking and hiking. During winter, pack warm clothing as Mai Chau can get chilly.
  • Footwear: Opt for sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots to navigate the mountainous terrain.
  • Medication: Bring essential medicines like painkillers, anti-diarrheal medicines, insect repellent, and personal prescriptions.
  • Cash: Carry sufficient cash, as ATMs may not be readily available in all areas.
  • Camera: Capture the stunning scenery and cultural experiences with a camera.

Cultural Etiquette:

  • Dress Code: When visiting villages, dress modestly and respectfully, avoiding revealing clothing.
  • Communication: Maintain politeness and respect towards the locals.
  • Photography: Always ask for permission before photographing people.
  • Shopping: Bargaining is expected at local markets.

Safety Precautions:

  • Weather: Check the weather forecast before your trip to prepare accordingly.
  • Transportation: Exercise caution when traveling on mountain roads, especially during the rainy season.
  • Food and Drinks: Choose reputable restaurants and ensure food hygiene.
  • Environmental Awareness: Avoid littering and maintain cleanliness.

Accommodation:

  • Mai Chau offers various accommodations, including homestays, guesthouses, and hotels.
  • Book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Read reviews before booking your stay.

Additional Tips:

  • Learning basic Thai phrases can enhance communication with locals.
  • Purchase travel insurance for unforeseen circumstances.
  • Be prepared for limited phone reception in certain areas.


What guests said about hotels in Mai Chau Valley

9.5
JessicaSolo traveller - Canada

Mai Chau

Wonderful stay in Mai Chau, great value. Perfect for a few very chilled out days. Family was so kind and lovely, very helpful with information on the local bus to leave to Hanoi. Able to accommodate vegan dinner (e.g., peanuts, tomato tofu, bamboo shoots, fried cabbage, spring rolls) and breakfast (french roll with peanut butter, sliced tomatoes, and shredded cucumber and carrots) with fruit and coffee. Bikes for rent were in excellent condition (single speed)
8.4
SYLVIEFamily with young children - France

Mai Chau

Our stay at Mai Chau Sky resort has been a wonderful experience. The staff has been amazingly nice and helpful. The food was very good. The location is perfect and the free bikes a 4 stars service. The location is perfect to discover this wonderful valley. A special thank you to the staff and the family owner who welcomed us very well despite the fact that it was the vietnamiese new year and everything is pretty much closed during this celebration.
9.5
PatricijaSolo traveller - Qatar

Mai Chau

Mr. Truong and his family were amazing! This was my best homestay in whole Vietnam! They were super attentive, helpful, kind,and polite. Location is dreamy and the whole surrounding so relaxed, green and beautiful. The views are out of this world! Special dedication goes to their home made food! So delicioussss, I was feeling like home! Do yourself a favor and book their gorgeous homestay! Thank you for everything Mr. Truong!:)
8.9
MourghanYoung couple - Spain

Mai Chau

Green Homestay is absolutely wonderful! Lin, the woman who runs it, was so incredibly hospitable! She was very helpful and kind enough to allow us to change rooms. There are multiple seating areas, all with stunning views. The rooms are comfortable and clean, and the food (and cocktails!) were great! It was extremely convenient to have free bikes to use. I absolutely recommend this homestay if you plan to travel to Mai Chau!
8.3
MikeYoung couple - United States

Mai Chau

Waking up to the view every morning is just spectacular! The staff were attentive to our every need. Beds were super comfortable, I thought food prices were fair and every meal was delicious. The hotel was able to get me a motorbike and we drove 40 miles over 3 days visiting around the resort, roads were easy and the local folks were wonderful! The pool was the perfect temp and has the same incredible views!
9.3
RachelSolo traveller - United States

Mai Chau

Such a good place to stay in Mai chau. The dorm is comfy and everything is super clean. The food is very good and huge portions. And the baguette they serve at breakfast is the best I’ve had in Vietnam. The best part is the staff. They are very kind and will help you in anyway they can. I was caught walking home in the dark one night and the owner came to pick me up. So sweet. Thank you!!
8.9
AnetteYoung couple - Vietnam

Mai Chau

The hotel is located in a small village about 20 kilometres from Mai Chau, which is why we booked it. We wanted to stay in a quiet and remote area and we really liked it. We cycled to Mai Chau one day; scenic landscape, simply fantastic. The bungalows are very nice, food was very good and eveyone super friendly. We had great fun with the three dogs, who are absolutely adorable.
9.4
LauraFamily with young children - Australia

Mai Chau

Staff were so friendly, food was delicious, room was nice and in general the place is very pretty. Staff also helped us booking a limo back to Hanoi. We went to Mai Chau in the local bus and they walked us down to the bus stop and told the driver where to drop us off. Very generous people. They don't speak english but with google is easy to communicate. I would stay again 😊
9.5
itshakYoung couple - Israel

Mai Chau

Everything!! Huệ and her family are super nice and welcoming. Dinner is really really good and plenty. Hot water in the shower and good bikes for a good price. The rooms are nice and clean. This place is everything you need and more to make your stay in mai chau comfortable and unforgettable. We planned to stay for 2 nights and ended up staying for a week :)
9.3
StaceySolo traveller - United Kingdom

Mai Chau

I had a lovely stay at Meadow homestay. The family makes you feel really welcomed and they cooked some delicious meals. The views from the property were beautiful and I enjoyed my walks round Mai Chau. I would definitely recommend staying here if you are in Mai Chau.
9.3
jonathanYoung couple - United States

Mai Chau

the hotel had a great location. the rooms were large and clean, beautifully decorated. we loved the cow from out balcony. breakfast was delicious. the staff and owner (Doung) were super helpful with directions to hikes and transportation anywhere. we loved our stay!
9.8
VeritySolo traveller - United Kingdom

Mai Chau

Beautiful property with lovely staff. I loved my stay here and great value for money, nice spacious bathrooms and big chill out areas with beautiful views! Really helpful maps to follow and bikes to use to cycle around Mai Chau, Thank you Tan for having me to stay
9.6
AlexPeople with friends - Switzerland

Mai Chau

Of all my trip to Vietnam, this was the most memorable moment. Lim is an exceptionnal woman, listening to her life story feels like watching a whole trilogy of movies. She cooks like a 3-star Michelin chef. I want to come back to stay longer.
8.9
MattFamily with young children - United Kingdom

Mai Chau

The hotel is located just outside Mai Chau, so is nice and quiet. It is an easy 10 minute walk to town or you can borrow complimentary bikes to explore the area. The staff are very friendly and helpful. Breakfast was also good. The
8.9
Pau OrtsYoung couple - United Kingdom

Mai Chau

It has one of the best views in Mai Chau. There is nothing like waking up and having a view of the golden ricefields just 2 meters from the bed. They have a scooter rental service. They help with all transportation bookings.
9.4
DenisSolo traveller - Ukraine

Mai Chau

Stayed here for the second time. As always, everything was great, clean room, delicious food. Wonderful attitude towards clients. I think this is the best hotel in Vietnam, I want to come back again and again)
8.9
SHELBYYoung couple - United States

Mai Chau

The view from the hotel and rooms was beautiful. If we were to redo this trip, we would make Mai Chau a day trip. It is such a beautiful location, but there isn't much to do in the area for more than one day.
9.8
LeePeople with friends - United States

Mai Chau

Tan is a very sweet host. The place is nicely located away from the more tightly packed hotels/homestays so you really feel you’ve gotten away. Easy biking around the valley and into town.
9.5
BorjaYoung couple - Spain

Mai Chau

I've just write 10 because 100 is not possible. So kind family and good basic rooms If you want to disconnect and enjoy Mai Chau don't think more and come
8
IvetteSolo traveller - Australia

Mai Chau

It's a good place to stay and relax for guests who want to visit Vietnam

FAQs about Mai Chau Valley

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