From:7.291.000 ₫≈ $280.00
Mu Cang Chai Explorer: 3-Day Northern Vietnam Tour
3 days Ha Noi
Customer reviews
4.8
30 reviews
Excellent
- Tour code
VT-K1E3X6
- Start
Ha Noi
- End
Ha Noi
- Type tour
Private Tour
- Age range
16 - 59
- Language
English
- Payments
Pay later
- Cancel tour
Yes/Free
About
Highlights
- Scenic Mountain Drive: Journey through Nghia Lo, Khau Pha Pass, and Mu Cang Chai’s remote highlands.
- Terraced Rice Field Trekking: Explore the iconic landscapes of La Pan Tan and Che Cu Nha.
- Ethnic Cultural Immersion: Visit H’mong villages and experience authentic local traditions.
- Authentic Accommodations: Stay in traditional homestays or comfortable local lodges.
- Thrilling Paragliding (Seasonal): Soar over Khau Pha Pass for breathtaking aerial views.
- Natural Hot Springs & Valleys: Unwind in Tu Le’s therapeutic waters and lush scenery.
Description
Embark on a breathtaking 3-day journey to Mu Cang Chai, one of Vietnam’s most stunning and lesser-known destinations. This adventure takes you through the rolling hills and golden rice terraces of the Northwest, from the cultural heart of Nghia Lo to the remote H’mong villages nestled among the highlands. Ideal for nature lovers and photographers, this tour blends scenic drives, immersive treks, and authentic cultural encounters.
Itinerary
The Mu Cang Chai Explorer: 3-Day Northern Vietnam Tour is thoughtfully designed to provide a perfect mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Each day offers a new chapter of discovery – from breathtaking landscapes to immersive local experiences. Follow the itinerary below to see what awaits you on this unforgettable journey.
- Morning (8:00 AM): Our guide and vehicle will pick you up from your hotel to begin our adventure to the "land of golden waves." As we leave Hanoi, watch the scenery transform into peaceful countryside and lush green tea hills.
- Noon: We'll stop in Nghia Lo town for an authentic Thai ethnic lunch. You will be treated to local specialties like five-colored sticky rice, hill chicken, stream fish, and forest bamboo shoots.
- Afternoon: The journey continues as we take on the challenge of conquering the majestic Khau Pha Pass. From the summit, cast your eyes over the vast Lim Mong and Lim Thai valleys, often peeking through a breathtaking sea of clouds. This is the perfect spot to capture once-in-a-lifetime photos.
- Evening: Arrive in Mu Cang Chai and check into a charming local homestay. We will gather for a cozy evening meal, savoring charcoal-grilled local pork, fresh wild vegetables, and sipping on a cup of potent corn wine while listening to stories about local life and the mountains.
Overnight in a peaceful homestay in Mu Cang Chai.
- Morning: Wake up to the sounds of roosters and the fresh scent of the mountains. After a local breakfast, we will begin our "rice hunting" trek, weaving through golden rice terraces that resemble stairways to heaven.
- Our first destination is La Pan Tan, home to the iconic "Mam Xoi" (Raspberry Hill) viewpoint. You'll have ample time to stroll, interact with friendly H'mong locals, and truly appreciate the grandeur of this man-made wonder.
- Noon: Enjoy a unique picnic lunch amidst the vast expanse of the terraced fields, or dine with a local family for a truly immersive and heartfelt experience.
- Afternoon: Continue to explore Che Cu Nha, another terraced masterpiece known for its soft, flowing curves. We'll also visit a small local market where you can find unique handmade crafts to bring home as souvenirs.
- Evening: Return to the homestay for a delicious dinner featuring more local flavors. As a special option, you can join a cultural exchange evening, enjoying graceful Xoe dances and the vibrant sounds of the H'mong Khen (a mouth organ).
Enjoy a restful night's sleep in Mu Cang Chai/La Pan Tan.
- Morning: Greet the morning amidst the mountains. After breakfast, our bus will take you to the poetic Tu Le Valley. This area is famous not only for its delicious green sticky rice (Cốm) but also for its natural hot springs. You can choose to indulge in a hot mineral spring bath to relax and rejuvenate your body after days of exploring.
- FOR THE ADVENTUROUS SOULS: Take the ultimate challenge with a "Flight over the Golden Season" – a paragliding experience from the top of Khau Pha Pass, offering a bird's-eye view of the stunning valley below (cost is self-supported, subject to weather conditions and prior registration).
- Noon: Enjoy a final lunch in Nghia Lo, savoring the lingering flavors of Northwest Vietnamese cuisine.
- Afternoon: Begin the return journey to Hanoi. You can take a nap on the bus or reflect on the wonderful moments of the trip.
- Evening (approx. 7:00 PM): Arrive back in Hanoi. Our guide will bid you farewell, ending a memorable journey and hoping to see you again on future adventures in Vietnam.
End of your 3-day, 2-night journey to Mu Cang Chai, filled with emotions and unforgettable memories!
Policy
Price included
- Transportations (Car): Transportation by SUV or 16 seated vehicle around on Tour
- Homestay: Overnight in the homestay
- Meals: All meals included (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner).
- Water: Water available on vehicle
- Tour guide: Vietnamese English speaking Tour guide
- Entrance ticket: All entrance tickets
- Drinks (beer, soft drinks): Stay refreshed! Add beverages to your tour.
- Tips for guide/driver (optional): Show your appreciation! Optional tips for our dedicated team.
- International travel insurance: Travel worry-free with optional international travel insurance.
- Laundry services: Pack light! Enjoy convenient laundry service during your trip.
For children
- Children’s Discounts: Kids 0-5 stay free with two adults; discounts for ages 6-12 apply based on the package.
- Child Activity Participation: Children can join most activities, but some may have age restrictions. Check details before booking.
- Child Safety and Supervision: Parents must supervise their children and follow provided safety guidelines. Some activities may need parental consent or accompaniment.
Other terms
To book, a deposit is required — typically up to 30% of the total tour cost — with full payment due before the tour begins.
Cancellations must be made in writing (via email or WhatsApp). Refunds are available depending on the timing: more than 15 days before departure: full refund (minus fees); 8–14 days: 50% refund; 4–7 days: 25% refund; less than 3 days or no-show: no refund. Full details can be found in our Cancellation Policy.
Travel insurance is strongly recommended but not included. Itineraries may change due to unforeseen conditions, and travelers must follow health and safety regulations.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about your upcoming adventure? We've compiled the most common questions from travelers to help you prepare for your unforgettable journey through Noriva. From booking details to what to pack, find all the answers you need right here.
Mu Cang Chai has two peak seasons. For the "golden waves" of rice described in the itinerary, the best time is from mid-September to early October when the terraces are a vibrant golden yellow, ready for harvest. A second beautiful season is the "watering season" from May to June, when the terraces are filled with water, creating a stunning mirror-like effect that reflects the sky.
We highly recommend booking at least 5-6 months in advance for the golden season (September-October). This is the peak tourist season, and accommodations, especially good homestays, fill up very quickly. For other times of the year, booking 2-4 weeks in advance is usually sufficient.
The drive is approximately 6-7 hours each way, but it is broken up with several stops for photos, lunch, and stretching. The vehicle is a comfortable, air-conditioned van or car. While it is a long journey, the stunning scenery along the way makes it part of the adventure!
Yes, absolutely. We can cater to vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary requirements. Please inform us of your specific needs at the time of booking so we can make the necessary arrangements with the local families and restaurants.
The local cuisine is flavorful but generally not overly spicy. It features fresh, locally sourced ingredients like grilled meats, river fish, fresh vegetables, and delicious sticky rice. It's a wonderful opportunity to try authentic Northwest Vietnamese food. If you are hesitant, our guide can help you choose dishes that suit your palate.
The trekking is considered moderate. It involves walking on narrow, sometimes uneven dirt paths through the rice terraces, with some inclines and declines. You do not need to be an expert hiker, but a reasonable level of fitness is required to enjoy the walks. Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes are essential. The pace is relaxed with plenty of stops for photos.
The paragliding is an optional activity operated by a licensed and certified local company. It is highly dependent on weather conditions for safety. You can register your interest with us when booking, and our guide will confirm availability on Day 3. The cost is not included in the tour price and is paid directly to the operator (it typically ranges from $80-$120 USD, but is subject to change).
Sturdy walking shoes/trekking boots (most important!).
Lightweight, comfortable clothing that can be layered.
A warmer jacket or fleece for the evenings, as it can get cool.
A raincoat or poncho, especially during the rainy season.
Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
Insect repellent.
Personal medications and a small first-aid kit.
Cash (VND) for personal expenses, drinks, and souvenirs, as ATMs are scarce.
Lightweight, comfortable clothing that can be layered.
A warmer jacket or fleece for the evenings, as it can get cool.
A raincoat or poncho, especially during the rainy season.
Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
Insect repellent.
Personal medications and a small first-aid kit.
Cash (VND) for personal expenses, drinks, and souvenirs, as ATMs are scarce.
Wi-Fi is available in most homestays, but the connection can be slow and unreliable due to the remote location. Similarly, mobile phone service is available in the towns and villages but can be patchy or non-existent while trekking in more remote valleys. Consider it a great chance to disconnect and enjoy nature!
We prioritize your comfort by arranging private rooms at our carefully selected homestays with local H'mong or Thai families. These rooms offer:
✔ Privacy with lockable doors (curtains in some remote locations)
✔ Clean bedding and traditional wooden/stilt-house charm
✔ Shared bathrooms (hot water provided)
Notes:
A few homestays may have limited private rooms; we'll secure them based on your booking priority.
For larger groups, communal spaces (with privacy curtains) may supplement private rooms.
Want 100% guaranteed privacy? Ask us about upgraded lodges!
✔ Privacy with lockable doors (curtains in some remote locations)
✔ Clean bedding and traditional wooden/stilt-house charm
✔ Shared bathrooms (hot water provided)
Notes:
A few homestays may have limited private rooms; we'll secure them based on your booking priority.
For larger groups, communal spaces (with privacy curtains) may supplement private rooms.
Want 100% guaranteed privacy? Ask us about upgraded lodges!
Genuine Reviews
Customer reviews
Overall rating
4.8
30 reviews
Excellent
Review summary
- Transportation:4.7
- Value for money:4.8
- Support services:4.8
- Organization:4.9
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