Discover the hidden beauty of Pu Luong Nature Reserve, the true gem of Vietnam’s trekking area is the centerpiece of our exciting Pu Luong Trekking Tours. Join Impress Travel for an unforgettable adventure beginning on an extremely beautiful S-shaped road, a breathtaking trail through terraced rice fields and extremely lush valleys. Our Pu Luong tours are designed to expose you to the nature and culture of Pu Luong, passing through villages to meet ethnic people who show the real charm of the area. It is time for a different journey!
S-shaped Road
Geographically, it lies at the heart of Pu Luong, joining two of the most beautiful villages in the region: Ban Don and Ban Hieu. Winding through the majestic mountains, curving like a ribbon across the landscape. Hiking along this road, you would be flanked by bright green rice terraces as far as your eyes could see, bracketed by towering limestone peaks and lush forests. The road beautifully combines the natural beauty and tranquility that every trekker would want to experience, hence making it a source of the main highlight of his itinerary.
While there are other famous “S-shaped roads" in Vietnam, such as in Moc Chau or Ha Giang, the S-shaped road in Pu Luong stands apart from the rest. It is unique because its beauty is tranquil and untouched; this version of the Pu Luong remains largely hidden from the crowds of people, while others are touristy. Here, one can trek for hours without seeing large crowds and take in the serene beauty that surrounds them.
It gets its name from the natural S-shaped road curve it makes while winding itself through the hills and valleys of Pu Luong. The serpentine path unfolds itself before the eyes of the viewer in a breathtaking beautiful array and along with it gives life to the tale of the land’s rich agricultural heritage. The rice terraces join along the road, and the story of the generations of local farmers who molded the landscape with their bare hands by turning steep hillsides into productive farmland comes alive.
This is more than just a pretty road; it is a cultural corridor between traditional villages. You will trekkingly pass Ban Don and Ban Hieu-these two villages have been home to local Thai and Muong ethnic groups for centuries. These villages are famous for their traditional stilt houses, warm hospitality, and rich cultural traditions. Along the way, you can stop and meet locals, learn about their way of life, and maybe even share a home-cooked meal.
Besides, this S-shaped road is surely one of the very most amazing highlights of our Pu Luong Trekking Tours! Just imagine trekking on rolling hills, through rich rice terraces, and into vibrant forests. The atmosphere here changes exquisitely with the seasons – if you visit between May and June, you will catch endless fields of lush green rice. But if you come in September and October during the golden harvest, it radiates in shining gold; as if you’ve walked into a painting, the whole landscape.
Besides the breathtaking scenery, this is a highly cultural trek: passing through Thai and Muong ethnic villages, you will witness local people’s lives, from their traditional crafts to their peaceful way of life. This is a unique opportunity to be with a varied culture that has been thriving here for generations.
Meanwhile, for photography enthusiasts, this S-shaped road just seemed to be a dream-from gentle dawn light to glowing hues during sunset, every single turn along it promised a fresh picture-postcard moment.
You’ll also catch glimpses, on the side of the trail, of the many diverse wildlife and flora peculiar to Pu Luong-from a variety of colorful wildflowers to the occasional bird and small animal of the forest. This is an experience which you would not want to miss!
White Rock Pass
This morning, we start our Pu Luong Tours! Our comfortable bus will pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi and head outward to the quiet countryside, leaving the busy city far behind. Sit back, relax, and start to enjoy the scenic drive through the lush landscapes of North Vietnam.
First of all, we will visit Thung Khe Pass or White Rock Pass, an amazingly beautiful region. This is a great chance to stretch your legs and take in seriously breathtaking views of the valleys below. The landscape is truly magical, and with mist-shrouded mountains behind you, it’s the perfect setting for some fantastic photos. Just a glimpse of the natural beauty awaiting your Pu Luong Trekking Tours!
Lunchtime! We will stop for lunch at a local restaurant in Mai Chau, where you will be able to taste all the flavors of the regional cuisine: grilled pork, sticky rice, wild vegetables, and all kinds of fresh herbs to give us new energy for our next journey.
After lunch, we drive to Pu Luong Nature Reserve. Check in to a cozy homestay or eco-lodge the view surely can’t be anything other than spectacular. What a way to unwind, with a panorama of the lush rice terraces right in front of you and the sounds of birds accompanied by a soft rustling of wind. Heaven on earth.
Now that you have just settled down, we will take a casual trek to the nearby Ban Don Village, where you will be able to experience the full ethnic life of the Thai ethnic community. You will introduce yourself to some locals and learn about their way of living, after which you will be exposed to traditional crafts such as weaving. It’s just the right introduction to the cultural richness that makes Pu Luong Tours so unique.
In the late afternoon, as the sun starts to further set, we return to the homestay for dinner in traditional Thai style, along with fresh, locally sourced ingredients oozing flavor. Think grilled meats, vegetables, and perhaps even sticky rice. This is followed by a night of unforgettable evening performances of local culture energetic mua sap, or a traditional bamboo dance known nationwide, which is the perfect way to end your first day in Pu Luong!
Ban Don Village
Good morning! We will be starting our day quite early with a sumptuous breakfast. Just while up your coffee or tea, take a glimpse at the sun showing its face over the rice terraces. The golden light bouncing off the green fields is something you won’t forget!
Time for trekking! Today, we hike to the famous S-shaped road and highlight the Pu Luong Trekking Tours. Steady ascending through dense forests and terraced rice fields to start the day. The higher we go the more spectacular views.
And behold the famous S-shaped road! This serpentine road cuts into the rice terraces and forms one naturally-formed work of art. It is a photographer’s dream; take all your time for a Dream Photo Shoot. You will also have a good chance to enjoy breathtaking views of Pu Luong’s valleys with the surrounding mountains.
Further up from here, on the S-shaped road, we continue our journey toward Ban Hieu very quiet village with a traditional Thai-style stilt house and particularly stunning green landscapes. The village lay in a beautiful valley surrounded by rice terraces, thus being an ideal place both to experience local culture and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
Lunch in Ban Hieu
We’ll stop in Ban Hieu for a picnic lunch in the great outdoors. You will try Com Lam, a traditional dish of rice cooked in bamboo, with grilled chicken and fresh local vegetables. Truly magic-eating in such a stunning area!
Afternoon: After lunch, transfer to Hieu Waterfall, which is deeply located in the forest. It is a really refreshing nature site and an excellent place to cool off. You are able to swim in its crystal-clear waters or sit down near the fall to enjoy the serenity of the host.
After a full day of trekking, we make our way back to a well-deserved homestay downtime: take your time to relax, shower, and recharge for dinner.
Our dinner will again be a nice local meal, with delicacies such as grilled pork, fish, and vegetables, taken directly from the surrounding area. Afterward, take a seat at a campfire under the stars. This is a great opportunity to share stories of the day, relax, and enjoy the serenity of nighttime in Pu Luong.
The last morning in Pu Luong will start at the homestay having breakfast. Then, taking a short walk to some nearby terraces for an incredible opportunity to take it all in one last time before we leave.
Today we would have to say goodbye to Pu Luong. Yet, the adventure has not been over! On the way back home to Hanoi, we will stop by Mai Chau. Here, you will be taken around to the local market, where you may buy some traditional Thai hand-making and keep some souvenirs for your trip.
We will stop for a final lunch in Mai Chau-town and enjoy more of the local delicious cuisine before heading back to Hanoi.
In the late afternoon, we’ll be back in Hanoi, which also means the end of an unforgettable Pu Luong Trekking Tour. We do hope that you have enjoyed this adventure and that the memories of Pu Luong’s S-shaped road, the local culture, and the landscapes will never fade!
Ban Hieu
Timing is everything when it comes to planning your trek! The best time for Pu Luong Tours is between May and June with the rice terraces being in their bright green color, or between September to October for the stunning gold color when the fields are usually in full harvest. In both periods, you get stunning views, but the landscapes change completely, so just pick the season that may interest you more!
Packing the right gear is vital to enjoying your Pu Luong Trekking Tour to its fullest extent. Be aware that you will do a lot of footwork, walk through many different kinds of terrain, and bring with you comfortable trekking shoes. Protect yourself from the sun, with hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Bring enough water bottles to keep yourself hydrated and enough light clothing so that it keeps you cool most of the day. And finally, bring along a good camera because, believe me, you would like to remember every second of this scenic walk.
This is a moderate trek; hence, some little preparation will do good. This is to say it’s highly recommended to get your legs prepared for the journey by walking or hiking regularly before the trip’s commencement. However, don’t stress too much about that since our Pu Luong Tours are designed for trekkers of various fitness levels!
Respect towards the culture is one big part of Pu Luong Trekking Tours. While being in interaction with these villagers, the Thai, and Muong show respect and an open heart. Always ask permission to take pictures concerning their culture. This is the major cultural enrichment part of the tour.
Lastly, let one do one’s part to help preserve the beauty of Pu Luong. Responsible tourism should be practiced: not littering, supporting locals, and respect for nature. Leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but memories!
The S-shaped road fully expresses the magic of the Pu Luong Trekking Tours: a combination of the beautifully stunning natural scenery and unique cultural immersion. Through this beautiful route, one can find majestically beautiful rice terraces mingled with local Thai and Muong villages, making unforgettable moments. At Impress Travel, we work a little bit harder to make a difference in your experience for your Pu Luong exploration to become something beyond amazing. Ready for your next adventure? Please contact us today to start your Pu Luong Tours! Don’t forget to regularly follow our Impress Travel for more interesting information about traveling Puluong to and to book Puluong Tours at the best prices.
Hanoi Head Office
Saigon Office
Inclusion: Meals: 1 x lunch, 1 x dinner, Accommodation: Overnight at Pu Luong Retreat, private transfer, tour guide, water on van/car.
HOTELS & CRUISES IN VIETNAM SELECTED
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Destination |
Room Type |
HOTEL NAME, ROOM TYPE & WEBSITE |
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Pu Luong |
Deluxe |
Homestay or Resort or Retreat or Bungalows |
We went on a private trip to Vietnam and Cambodia, the whole trip plan was organized for us by the Impress Travel Company from Vietnam, the company did an amazing job, the whole trip was organized in a wonderful way with an amazing match between the various parties, their choices were correct and the quality of the hotels chosen were very high quality and it is important to note that the price was low in comparison To other agencies, thanks to Impress Travel and especially to Daniel who was tolerant and open to changes and organized the route for us.
Impress travel were amazing. Did my bookings with Daniel for our tour of Vietnam and I must say Daniel was very professional and prompt with his services. All the arrangement, plans, pick-up & drop-off services, hotels, vehicles, sightseeing tours and guides were spot on and excellent. Did 4 nights Hanoi, 1 night Hà Long Bay cruise, 3 nights Hoian, 4 nights Saigon and 1 night in Can Tho. It was totally awesome. Every part of the journey was superbly arranged and planned. I will highly recommend Impress Travel for anyone interested in visiting Vietnam. Very organized and reliable!
I booked with Impress Travel in July. My contact person was Tommy Thang. He is an amazing person. He was very helpful. He changed my program twice for me. Very accommodating!
We started our holiday in the north (Sapa)of Vietnam and travelled down to HCMC.
The tour was fantastic, Tommy's arrangements were to the"T".
I will always use them if I have to visit the area again and recommend them to one and all.
Thank you once again Mr.Tommy and the Impress Team.
Sulaiman Pochee
Great value for money with 4 stars hotel accommodation for 4 couples. The tour guide has been very helpful and brought us to amazing places in Sapa. We want to thanks Thuy the tour guide and especially Mark from Impress Travel for his great service and assurance throughout our trip. We’ll definitely use his service for other tour packages in other parts of Vietnam.
This is the second time we travel to Vietnam with IMPRESS Travel. First time, we booked our holiday to Hanoi, Halong Bay & Sapa during Dec 2018 with Impress.
Second time, we travel to Hoi An, Hue & Danang (Central Vietnam) during Jan 2019.
My friends & I are very glad & happy with all the hotels stay in Central Vietnam, the meals provided are delicious. We are greatly appreciated with all the tour arrangement by Tommy & his team (tour guide).
Especially, Mr. NHAT C.V. He is helpful, cheerful, knowledgeable and very professional. He always volunteer to take a nice pictures for six of us (group) .
We enjoyed our holiday with Impress travel. We will definitely come back to Vietnam again with Impress
Inclusion: Meals: 1 x breakfast, 1 x lunch, 1 x dinner, Accommodation: Overnight at Pu Luong Retreat, tour guide
Inclusion: Meals: 1 x lunch, Private Transfer, Tour Guide, Water on van/car.
Pu Luong is a natural reservation in the northern land of Vietnam. It is 160 km away from Hanoi and is a 4-hour drive north-west of Hanoi. Pu Luong Reserve is located in Quan Hoa & Bac Thuoc District, Thanh Hoa Province and shares a border with Hoa Binh Province in Tan Lac, Mai Chau, and Lac Son districts, and is divided by a central valley, which contains several human settlements and a large area of agricultural land, therefore, it is not included within the nature reserve. Pù Luông is endowed with great biodiversity, its flora and fauna are closely associated with the Cúc Phương National Park 25 km south-east. Impress Travel offers travelers a tour to explore Pu Luong combined with a Mai Chau trekking tour. It is a trekking tour from Mai Chau to Pu Luong, then an overnight stay at Pu Luong Retreat – 9 comfortable bungalows, 1 traditional stilt house with 16 comfy beds, an open-air restaurant with tasty cuisine, an infinity pool and spa with rock garden, all at your disposal. Come to Pu Luong Retreat to discover the hidden magic, of a place built by hand, with meticulous attention to detail, from the ground up puluong@impresstravel.com
Contact us about any of our tours, or discuss your trip ideas, about Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand and Myanmar with Impress travel consultants. All replies asap and always within 24 hours.
