Step into the Clouds: Mu Cang Chai & Khau Pha Adventure

Your journey begins in Hanoi, ideally in the early morning to make the most of daylight hours. Leaving the city’s dynamic energy behind, you’ll quickly find yourself on the outskirts, where urban life gives way to open fields and traditional villages.

Arriving in Tu Le. Tucked in a valley, Tu Le is more than just a gateway to Mu Cang Chai, it’s a playground for explorers and culture lovers alike. Known for their breathtaking, UNESCO-recognized rice terraces, natural hot springs, and a chance to dive into the daily life of H’mong and Thai communities.

OPTIONAL DEPENDS ON YOUR ENERGY FOR THE DAY:
7 km trek through the villages of Tú Lệ, Nặm Pẳng, Nậm Có. The trek will take approximately 2 hours. As we follow narrow, muddy paths across rice fields and streams, you can also swim in the stream with local children. The terrain is fairly flat, making the trek easy and enjoyable.

– Breakfast and visit Tu Le Market. This bustling spot is where locals from the H’mong and Thai communities gather every day. And it tends to be busier on Saturday and Sunday mornings. You can have breakfast or some snacks at the market, then stroll, explore the local culture, and interact with the locals.
– Head to Khau Pha Valley.
– Trekking Adventure: Begin an easy 6-8 km trek through the villages of Lìm Mông, Lìm Thái and Ít Thái (or can be fixed into 5 km trek). (Depending on the season and occasion, your guide may invite you to join local activities such as bamboo worm hunting, foraging for wild fruits, harvesting rice, working in terraced fields, plowing, transplanting rice, or even attending a traditional wedding or funeral, or sharing a drink with locals.)
– Traditional lunch at a Thai village homestay.

Noon:
– Free & easy: Spend your afternoon relaxing.
– Sunset Motorbike Ride: Ride up to Kong Hill, where you’ll experience an unforgettable “dining under the stars” meal. (Backup taxis are available to bring you safely back to the homestay)

Night:
– Traditional herbal feet soak together before settling in for the night at a Thai homestay.

Start the day at the fullest energy by heading and arriving at Mu Cang Chai.

– Embark on a 3-hour (7 km) trek from La Pán Tẩn village to Mâm Xôi Hill, passing through Chế Cu Nha. This area is famous for its unique round-shaped terraces wrapping around mountains. The terraces, sculpted by the H’mong people over hundreds of years, offer a picturesque view.

– Return to homestay for dinner and relaxation.
About CUISINE, get ready to indulge in the best of Northwest Vietnam with flavors crafted by the Thai and H’mong communities! From the legendary Pa Pỉnh Tộp, a mouth-watering grilled river fish wrapped in banana leaves and bursting with lemongrass, ginger, and dill, to the rare Black Chicken, an ancient highland delicacy known for its unique color and tender, flavorful meat – these dishes are packed with tradition and taste.

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