Mai Chau: Where the Mountains Breathe and Cultures Bloom

Leave the city behind and uncover the quiet magic of Mai Chau — where misty mountains, winding rivers, and vibrant local life come together. Kayak through hidden valleys, farm with locals, and share meals and stories in stilt houses. It’s not just a trip — it’s a deep breath of nature and culture.

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Step away from the fast-paced city and into the serene embrace of Mai Chau — a hidden valley where mist rolls off the mountains, rivers whisper through ancient forests, and centuries-old cultures continue to thrive. Over four unforgettable days, you’ll kayak across tranquil waters, wander through golden rice fields, and dig your hands into the earth alongside local farmers.

But this journey is more than just stunning landscapes — it’s about connection. Sip tea in stilt houses with the Muong people, cycle through quiet villages where time slows down, and share stories, meals, and laughter with warm-hearted hosts. From adventure to stillness, every moment here invites you to breathe deeper, live slower, and feel more.

Trip highlights

Ruou Can

Ruou Can

Gliding on the Da River

Go Lao Waterfall

The Emerald Veil of Mai Chau

White Thai ethnic community

Kayaking on Da River

What’s included

English-speaking tour guide

Meals mentioned in the itinerary

All transport all day excursion

2x bottled water per day

Ticket entrance fees for all sites

Exclusions

  • International flight
  • Personal expenses: laundry, souvenirs,…
  • Visa entrance fee
  • Tips for Tour Guide and local servings.
  • Changing ticket fees, visa extension costs, foreign currency exchange, etc.
  • Snacks
  • Personal expenses: laundry, hotel upgrade…

Itenerary

DAY 1

TRANSFER TO MAI CHAU - IMPRESSED BY THE NATURE

Leave the city behind and dive into an unforgettable adventure in Mai Chau, where breathtaking landscapes, thrilling activities, and warm local hospitality await.

Your journey kicks off with a scenic drive from Hanoi, weaving through misty mountains and endless rice fields until you arrive at our scenic charming accomodation. Drop your bags, stretch your legs, and fuel up with a delicious lunch.

Once you’ve recharged, it’s time to hit the road! Your guide and driver are ready to take you to Bai Sang, a hidden kayaking paradise just a short drive away. Along the way, soak in the lush green landscapes: rice paddies rolling like waves, towering bamboo groves, and the cascading beauty of Go Lao Waterfall. It’s the kind of scenery that makes you want to ditch your phone and just live in the moment.

At Bai Sang, adventure truly begins! Gear up with your life jacket, grab a paddle, and get ready to glide across the serene waters of Da River. Whether you’re a first-time paddler or a seasoned pro, this is kayaking at its most magical, crystal-clear waters, towering limestone cliffs, and nothing but the sounds of nature all around you. Paddle at your own pace, feel the cool splash of water, and let the river guide you deeper into this peaceful paradise.

But the adventure doesn’t stop on the water! After kayaking, we’ll dock at Pho Moi village, home to the Muong ethnic community. Take a refreshing dip in the river (because why not?), then step into a traditional wooden stilt house, where friendly locals are eager to share their world with you. Sip on warm tea, swap stories, and get a rare glimpse into the rhythm of everyday life in this riverside village.

DAY 2

ONE DAY BEING A FARMER

Get ready to roll up your sleeves and transform yourself into an authentic farmer for the day!

Step into the lush, nearby vegetable gardens where friendly local farmers eagerly await to share their secrets.
Grab your tools and dive straight into action: digging your hands into the rich, fertile soil as you master age-old planting techniques passed down through generations.

Feel the joy and satisfaction as you water your freshly planted vegetables, sprinkle natural fertilizers, and even harvest your own crops straight from the earth! Along the way, uncover fascinating insights into organic farming methods and learn how local families harmoniously blend tradition and sustainability to thrive

DAY 3

ON YOUR OWN FLOWING WITH THE RYTHM OF MAI CHAU

In the morning, hop on a bicycle and cycle around the lush countryside and neighboring villages, where the White Thai ethnic community lives. You’ll pass by rice paddies, bamboo groves, and stilt houses while immersing yourself in the local culture.
Stop along the way to chat with the friendly villagers and learn more about their daily lives and customs.

Spend a fun farewell dinner while joining hands to prepare a traditional dinner with your host family, including “ruou can” (a traditional rice wine sipped through bamboo straws).
Enjoy a communal meal with the family.
We then wrap it all up with the traditional songs and dances with locals.

DAY 4

TRANSFERRING BACK TO HANOI

Transferring back to Hanoi in the morning. End of the trip.

FAQs

01

Are airport transfers included?

Arrival: If you're there on Day 1 or crashing with us before, we've got your back with an arrival transfer. For other plans, kindly just sort your own ride. Departure: Since everyone's schedules vary, we don't arrange departure transfers. But we can help you find local transport options.
02

Are there any promotions for early registration?

You will get special price incentives when you register 60 days before your departure date. Please contact us to get the latest price information before registering.
03

Are tips included in the cost?

Nope, tips aren't part of the deal. For a rough guide:
  • Trip Leader: 10-15 USD per day
  • Drivers: 4-5 USD per day
Your Trip Leader will help with local tipping advice. We'll collect tips during the welcome meeting. It's all up to you!
04

Can I book a customized itinerary for my family/close friends?

100% guaranteed. Please message Hum Team with your request — the more detailed, the better and quicker it will be for us to assist you! Hum Team is more than happy to accompany you and your loved ones every step of the way. No need to think further, let's just ask us anything. 
05

Best Timing for Food and Travel Content in Vietnam

North Vietnam: The best time to film food and travel content in North Vietnam is during the autumn months from September to April. The weather is typically cool and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring destinations like Hanoi and its surroundings. Don't miss the unique cultural experiences during the Mid-Autumn Festival in September. Central Vietnam: From February to August is the prime time for filming in Central Vietnam when the weather is sunny and dry. This period allows for exploration of cities like Da Nang and Hoi An, along with the chance to participate in festivals like the Hue Festival in April. South Vietnam: The dry season from November to April is perfect for filming food and travel content in South Vietnam. This period offers great weather for exploring Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong Delta, and Phu Quoc Island. Capture the vibrant Tet holiday celebrations in late January or early February.
06

Can the itinerary change?

Yup, the itinerary can change! Sometimes things like availability, weather, or unexpected stuff might shake things up a bit. Don't worry, we'll try to keep things awesome and may tweak the plan to keep it fresh.
07

Do I need a visa?

Yes. E-visa should be issued before your arrival. To get an e-visa:      - Single entry: 25 USD      - Multiple entries: 50 USD The Vietnamese Single Entry eVisa allows up to a 90-day stay. Apply at least 10 business days before your trip. Keep an eye out for any visa changes before you go.
08

Filming Costs in Vietnam

When planning your filming expenses in Vietnam, keep in mind that costs can vary depending on your specific requirements, travel itinerary, and the level of comfort expected for your crew, including meals and accommodations. Drawing from our experience in producing content in diverse locations like Australia, South America, Africa, and other Southeast Asian countries, we can attest to the flexibility that filming in Vietnam offers. We are well-equipped to assist you in navigating these costs and arrangements to ensure a smooth and successful filming experience. We tailor our quotations to meet your unique needs, ensuring a personalized budget for your project.
09

Filming in Vietnam and Transportation

Vietnam boasts well-maintained road infrastructure, with a network of expressways connecting various regions. Major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Hai Phong, and Can Tho are easily accessible by air, with primary carriers such as Vietnam Airlines, Bamboo Airways, and Vietjet Air. For local transportation, 16-seater vans like Ford Transit and Hyundai Solati, along with 7-seater cars such as Toyota Fortuner and Innova, are popular choices among film crews for navigating urban and rural terrains. Remember to adhere to Vietnamese laws that restrict drivers from working more than 4 hours without a small break. 
10

Hidden Gems in Vietnam

Cao Bang: Discover the stunning landscapes of Cao Bang in the north, including attractions like Ban Gioc Waterfall and Nguom Ngao Cave. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park: Explore the incredible caves and karst formations of this UNESCO World Heritage Site in central Vietnam, featuring the world's largest cave, Son Doong Cave. Con Dao Islands: Off the southern coast, the Con Dao Islands offer pristine beaches, rich marine life, and a historical site at Con Dao Prison. Bac Son Valley: Capture the picturesque beauty of Bac Son Valley in the north, surrounded by karst mountains and showcasing serene rural life. Phu Yen Province: Visit Phu Yen in central Vietnam to experience untouched beaches like Bai Xep and the stunning Ganh Da Dia rock formations.
11

How much deposit do I need in advance?

50% of the trip value is the minimum you need to deposit for your trip. The rest will be completed 15 days before the departure date. Upon registration, our Trip Consultants will also immediately assist you in choosing the right flight for your departure location and personal needs.
12

What is the cancellation policy?

We support a refund of up to 10% of the registration value when you cancel your booking within 45 days before departure. And there's even no fee if you cancel 60 days before your departure date. However, the fee will increase gradually by 20%, 50%, and 75% if you cancel close to the booked departure date.
13

How much should I budget per day for additional expenses?

Expect to splash around 30 GBP (40 USD) a day for extras, excluding drinks. Trying local eats can help keep costs down. Enjoy!
14

What can I expect in terms of hotels and food quality?

The accommodations selected have been chosen for their prime locations and cozy amenities, although they may not all be categorized as luxurious. While we strive to ensure your comfort and enjoyment, it's important to acknowledge that standards can vary across countries. We understand that a significant aspect of travel is delving into local culinary delights. Nevertheless, fret not, as you will find an array of familiar Western dishes available in major urban centers such as Ha Noi, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City to cater to diverse tastes.
15

What time should I aim to arrive for the welcome meeting on Day 1?

Try to make it before 3 pm on Day 1. But hey, even if you're running late, we'll sort you out with an airport transfer.
16

What time should my departure flight be on the final day?

The last day is chill with no fixed activities, so leave whenever suits you best.
17

What vaccinations and medications are recommended?

We highly recommend to:
  • Chat with a healthcare pro at least eight weeks before your trip.
  • Check in with local health advice based on where you're from.
  • Stay updated on travel advisories from your home country.
UK residents: visit the NHS Fit For Travel website for the latest medical advice. US residents: check the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for specialized health information. Australian residents: refer to the Smart Traveler Health website for current medical advice.
  • Pack enough prescription meds and bring copies of your prescriptions just in case.
18

Which airports will I be flying in and out of, along with their codes?

Arrival: You'll touchdown at Hanoi - Noi Bai Airport (HAN). Departure: You'll bid farewell from Ho Chi Minh City - Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN).
19

Why doesn’t your tour package include airfare?

Hum Travel understands that our customers come from all over the country and are living abroad. Therefore, our Trip Consultant will help you book your flight tickets as soon as you have chosen your desired booking date. Airfare prices will be chosen according to your personal needs and preferences. You can choose Business Class as well as any airline that suits your registration schedule.

Price

Contact us

Tour type

Duration

4 days 3 nights

Location

Mai Chau, Vietnam

Language

English

Departure

Hanoi

Depart from

Ho Chi Minh City

Quantity

1

Contact for private solo traveler

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