Hello and greetings to Small Group Mai Chau Tours, a refuge for both heritage and adventure! Lying in a lush valley surrounded by grand hills, Mai Chau Tours offers a refuge for visitors in the quest for a combination of heritage, nature, and peace. Unlike crowded tourist destinations, in Mai Chau, a cozy atmosphere prevails, and one can explore with a bike through yellow paddy fields, and trekking routes, and mix with friendly Thai ethnical communities. With Small Group Mai Chau Tours, a personalized, in-depth trip, discovering off-the-beaten-path treasures, enjoying homemade food, and getting in contact with real village life, with a trip that is both responsible and in comfort, is at your disposal. Let’s explore together the treasures of Mai Chau!
For a memorable and personalized trip, Small Group Mai Chau Tours is perfect for unearthing the magnificent beauty and rich heritage of Mai Chau. With one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, and ten days at your disposal, our expertly designed tour options enable each visitor to have the best of Mai Chau Tours, regardless of your trip duration. Cycling through emerald-green paddies, a friendly Thai ethnic encounter, and many more, with each activity a new and exciting discovery, your trip will not disappoint.
Key Highlights Included in Each Package
Apart from the tour, all Small Group Mai Chau Tours have professionally crafted experiences for an unforgettable journey. Look for scenic driving over rolling hills, enriching cultural experiences with homestay families, and a variety of outdoors such as hiking and cycling. Traditional dishes with regional specialties make a big part of your culinary journey, and an opportunity to indulge in them in a rich traditional environment.
Who is This Tour For?
Small Group Mai Chau Tours have been designed for a variety of visitors, and everyone, including individual visitors, couples, and groups, can enjoy the best of Mai Chau through them.
Solo travelers will love the sense of connection and adventure, meeting like-minded individuals while exploring the serene landscapes. Couples seeking a romantic escape will find Mai Chau to be the perfect setting, with peaceful homestays, scenic cycling routes, and warm hospitality.
The single traveler will have a sense of community and discovery, socializing with fellow visitors and finding similar kindreds in peaceful environments. For couples, a vacation dream will become a reality in Mai Chau, with idyllic homestays, rolling cycling routes, and friendly hospitality.
Why Choose Small Group Mai Chau Tours?
Unlike large commercial tours, with a whizz through of locations, Small Group Mai Chai Tours embarks on a deeper, flexible, and immersive journey. With fewer visitors, you have a personalized service, with direct access to expert guides and Thai hill tribe family contacts.
Small groups have a deeper cultural affiliation, for in them one can have actual conversations and actual contact with native communities. In addition, small-group tourism will promote ecotourism, and tourism will enrich communities and not overwhelm them with visitors.
By choosing Small Group Mai Chau Tours, not only will you become part of nature and society, but your presence will have a positive impact on the life of society too. With us, join and behold the beauty of Mai Chau in a meaningful, memorable, and one-of-a-kind manner.
Mai Chau (Sours: ivivu)
Small Group Mai Chau Tour – 1 Day
Morning: The Journey to Mai Chau Begins
07:00 – Depart from Hanoi
The anticipation begins early morning when we depart Hanoi in a warm, air-conditioned car. As Hanoi vanishes in the distance, rolling hills and lush foliage become a view. During our trip, I will regale you with information about insightful information about Mai Chau, its people, and unforgettable experiences in store for us.
09:00 – Scenic Stop at Thung Khe Pass
Our first stop is one of northern Vietnam’s most striking viewpoints, namely, Thung Khe Pass, aptly titled “White Rock Pass" for its intimidating white rock cliffs, whose beauty is simply breathtaking. Standing at its site, one can have a panoramic view of Mai Chau Valley, most times veiled in mist, creating an enchanting, dreamlike atmosphere.
Breathing in, enjoy the cool atmosphere of the mountains! Enjoy a chance to indulge in traditional foods such as steamed corn and a dish of rice prepared in bamboo, a first glimpse at culinary experiences at Mai Chau Tours.
10:30 – Arrive at Ban Lac: Exploring Thai Ethnic Culture
We arrive at Ban Lac, amid Thai ethnicity in Mai Chau, at about mid-morning. Walking through the village, one can see traditional stilted housing, each with beautifully ornamented wood balconies and rich, rich, and skillfully woven cloth hung out for drying.
I will introduce you to traditional craftsmen who have honed weaving brocade cloth, a skill that has been passed down over many years. Do not resist having a try at weaving yourself, or purchase a one-off, locally-made keepsake to contribute towards supporting the community.
Afternoon: A Taste of Mai Chau’s Hospitality and Nature
12:00 – Enjoy a Traditional Thai Lunch
Lunch is a guaranteed highlight in our Small Group Mai Chau Tours activity! We have lunch in a cozy Thai stilted dwelling and indulge in a delicious meal with traditional dishes specific to the region.
Look out for grills filled with pork, steamed bamboo sticky rice (com lam), and freshly harvested mountain produce, accompanied with Thai dipping sauce. Relax and enjoy, and use your free time to swap tales and enjoy the tranquility of Mai Chau.
13:30 – Cycling Through the Rice Fields & Visiting Local Workshops
We ride bicycles in the afternoon and have a leisurely tour through stunning landscapes in Mai Chau Valley. Cycling in such a place is a happy occasion—the weather is cool, the routes are quiet, and with every turn, a postcard view comes into view.
We will pass through lush paddy fields, and one can witness farmers working in them, traditionally utilizing centuries-old methods. I will present to you a range of off-the-beaten-path gems in and near Mai Chai, such as:
The village of Pom Coong is a traditional Thai ethnic village with fewer visitors.
Locally operated workshops, where one can witness expert craftsmen at work producing traditional wood carvings, musical instruments, and embroiderings
Peaceful lotus ponds and pretty bridges are perfect for taking breathtaking photographs.
15:30 – Free Time to Explore & Relax
After cycling, enjoy a free period to roam about in your leisure in the village. Perhaps, have a village green tea, chat with friendly villagers, and sit and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, your opportunity to wholly indulge in the peaceful atmosphere of Mai Chau Tours.
Evening: Saying Goodbye to Mai Chau
16:00 – Depart for Hanoi
Under the warm sunlight in the early afternoon, we head off towards Hanoi. I insist my guests have one last deep breath of cool, crisp mountain air and one last view of the beauty of the valley before saying goodbye.
19:00 – Arrive in Hanoi
We head back to Hanoi in the early evening, with memories of a flawless day etched in our minds for life. With our Small Group Mai Chau Tours, not only will you witness a location, but actually, you will live it—through its country, its people, and its unforgettable experiences that make traveling such a pleasure.
Thung Khe Pass (Sours: localvietnam)
Small Group Mai Chau Tour – 2 Days, 1 Night
Day 1: Discovering the Beauty and Culture of Mai Chau
07:00 – Departure from Hanoi
Our tour will start when we leave Hanoi and drive towards Mai Chau. The journey will go through magnificent mountainous areas, and I, your tour guide, will inform and enchant you with information about the rich heritage, customs, and off-the-beaten-path gems of the region.
09:00 – Scenic Stop at Thung Khe Pass
Coming towards Thung Khe Pass, stand ready for one of northern Vietnam’s most magnificent vistas. Often veiled in clouds, the white limestone pass opens out for a panoramic view over Mai Chau Valley, its quilted paddy, and traditional settlements between rolling hillsides.
Linger a little and enjoy a little of the cool mountain air, taking in panoramic photographs, and such snacks as grilled corn and steamed rice with bamboo bought at welcoming street stalls.
10:30 – Arrival at Ban Lac: A Glimpse into Thai Ethnic Life
We arrive in Ban Lac, during the Thai community in Mai Chau. There, you will arrive at your accommodation, a Thai homestay in a woodhouse with stilts. These lovely woodcuts offer an opportunity to experience real Thai hospitality and village life in a firsthand manner.
12:00 – A Taste of Authentic Thai Cuisine
Lunch is a feast of Thai specialties, such as pork char-grilled, com lam (sticky rice in a pot of bamboo), and Thai dipping sauce, accompanied by freshly harvested produce from the mountains. All dishes are freshly prepared with locally harvested ingredients, a real farm-to-table meal.
14:00 – Afternoon Adventure: Trekking or Cycling in Mai Chau Valley
During daytime, you have two options for visiting the breathtaking view of Mai Chau:
Option 1: Trekking to Pom Coong Village – Trekking through lush paddy fields and a peaceful village path, offering a glimpse at rural life and traditional stilt houses.
Option 2: Cycling Through Mai Chau Valley – Relax with a leisure cycling tour down quiet rural country roads, rolling over paddy fieldscapes, lotus ponds, and traditional village craftsmen’s shops, in which one can see expert craftsmen in action.
Both experiences offer a firsthand glimpse at unspoiled beauty in Mai Chau, with a chance to mix with villagers, enjoy seeing them work, and enjoy peaceful rural life.
18:30 – Evening Cultural Celebration: Traditional Thai Dance, Bonfire & Can Wine Tasting
We will congregate at sunset for a magical Thai cultural performance evening. Traditional Thai dancers, dressed in Thai traditional attire, will deliver graceful, rhythmic dances with traditional Thai accompaniment.
Next, join in for a try at Thai dancing with a bamboo, or sit and enjoy the party atmosphere and sip Can, a social form of traditional rice wine taken with a shared use of a bamboo straw.
The evening concludes with a cozy bonfire, and under a sky filled with stars, together with laughter and exchanged stories, an unforgettable encounter that renders Small Group Mai Chau Tours an unforgettable one.
Pom Coong Village (Sours: https://www.agoda)
Day 2: Exploring Hidden Natural Wonders
07:00 – Morning Hike or Visit to Hang Chieu Cave
Wake to crisp mountain freshness and peaceful village tranquility. Have a warm breakfast, then opt for one of two exciting morning options:
Option 1: Hike to Hang Chieu Cave – For a 1,200-step challenging climb, a reward is a panoramic view of one of Mai Chau’s most striking cave structures, Hang Chieu. There, a breathtaking universe of stalactites and stalagmites radiate a soft, warm glow, naturally lit through a cave opening in the cave entrance.
Option 2: Relax and Explore at Your Own Pace – In case a leisurely morning is your preference, stroll through a village, socialize with villagers, or simply sit and enjoy a freshly prepared Vietnamese tea and indulge in a serene atmosphere.
09:30 – Optional Visit to Go Lao Waterfall (Extra Cost for Transportation)
For an even greater level of adventure, an optional trip can be taken to Go Lao Waterfall, a little-known attraction situated 10 km from Mai Chau town. With its cascading waterfall surrounded by lush jungle, it is a perfect location for a break and for taking photographs in harmony with nature.
Soak in cool refreshing water, and enjoy peaceful surroundings beforehand, and then let’s depart for the Hanoi trip together.
11:30 – Farewell Lunch and Departure
We have a farewell dinner together beforehand—once again, an opportunity to indulge in the
rich foods of Mai Chau and enjoy remembering the unforgettable experiences of the two days past.
12:30 – Scenic Drive Back to Hanoi
We leave Mai Chau with a rural drive through scenic countryside, and our trip takes one last stop at a pretty viewpoint, with an opportunity for a stretch, a farewell view of Vietnam’s magnificent rural beauty, and a chance to purchase a little souvenirs for your trip’s conclusion.
17:00 – Arrival in Hanoi
We return to Hanoi in the early evening, having finished our Small Group Mai Chau Tours. As your tour guide, I hope that in your journey, I have implanted in your mind memories of the unforgettable beauty, rich heritage, and warm hospitality of Mai Chau.
Hang Chieu Cave (Sours: dulich.pro)
Small Group Mai Chau Tour – 3 Days, 2 Nights
Day 1 & Day 2: Immersing in Mai Chau’s Beauty and Culture
For your first two days, your itinerary will follow a similar one to our 2-day Small Group Mai Chau Tours:
Drive through Hanoi, with a stop at the breathtaking Thung Khe Pass.
Live in a traditional homestay in Ban Lac, immersing yourself in and becoming part of Thai ethnic community life.
Eat real Thai dishes, such as specialties such as grills and bamboo-cooked sticky rice.
Cycle and trek through the Mai Chau Valley, enjoying its lush paddy fields, lotus ponds, and off-the-beaten-path villages.
Experience a mystical Thai cultural evening with traditional Thai dancing, a bonfire, and wine-tasting.
Explore Hang Chieu Cave, alternatively, make a trip to Go Lao Waterfall, with a little added dash of adventure.
Day 3: Journey into the Wild Beauty of Pu Luong Nature Reserve
06:30 – Early Morning Departure to Pu Luong Nature Reserve
Today, our third opens with an adrenalin-pumping trekking excursion to Pu Luong Nature Reserve (we can organize transportation for a less energetic alternative, for a fee, naturally!).
A one-hour drive, at most, takes one to Pu Luong, an unspoiled haven, with its rolling paddy fields, hills veiled in mist, and remote ethnic communities. One of Northern Vietnam’s least visited regions, its unspoiled beauty is a haven for off-the-beaten-path, unspoiled experiences for those in search of them.
The journey through Pu Luong takes in magnificent vistas of rolling paddy fields, peaceful rivers, and traditional wood and thatched stilted village homes amid verdant forests. I will pass through, and I will unveil information regarding the region’s unparalleled ecosystem, its native communities, and its centuries-old, environmentally friendly agricultural methods that have shaped this environment for centuries.
09:00 – Visit to Kho Muong Village: A Hidden Ethnic Gem
A highlight of the day is a trip to Kho Muong Village, a rural and idyllic Thai ethnic village deep in the heart of Pu Luong Nature Reserve.
The village is one of the least developed regions in the country, with life moving at a slow, relaxed pace. Strolling through the village, one will encounter:
Classic stilt houses, composed entirely of organic materials.
Locals residing in rural communities, working in farms, weaving, and producing homemade, one-off items.
Dramatic landscapes, including rolling paddy field ridges and surrounding karst hills of limestone.
Here, you will have a chance to socialize with villagers, learn about traditional agricultural practices, and explore the Kho Muong Cave, a magnificent cave in a nearby site near a village.
The tour section in question affords a glimpse at actual ethnic life, and it is a rich and rewarding one for cultural connoisseurs.
11:30 – A Farewell Lunch in Mai Chau
We return to Mai Chau for a farewell meal together in the morning. It is your chance to indulge in Thai foods one last time, remember your experiences over the three days, and, if desired, buy locally crafted souvenirs.
13:00 – Scenic Drive Back to Hanoi
We leave Mai Chau and journey through rural country roads for our drive back to Hanoi, with a stop at a scenic viewpoint for a glimpse of the country’s breathtaking beauty in its closing shots in northern Vietnam.
I enjoy hearing about my guests during my drive. What were your trip’s best parts? Did you enjoy immersing yourself in cultures, appreciating breathtaking landscapes, or challenging treks?
We will arrive in Hanoi at about 18:00, and your memories will forever be etched in your
mind for having experienced such an unforgettable trip with Small Group Mai Chau Tours.
Pu Luong Nature Reserve (Sours: vietnam.travel)
Essential Travel Tips for Small Group Mai Chau Tours
What to Pack for Small Group Mai Chau Tours
The most important tip for enjoying your trip in its full in Mai Chau is smart packing, especially when most of your activity will include trekking, cycling, and visiting rural villages. What to bring:
Light and airy clothes – The weather in Mai Chau can become hot, particularly during the summertime, and therefore choose clothes with a light and breathable make such as linen and cotton.
Good walking shoes – Whether one is hiking to Hang Chieu Cave, cycling in paddy fields, or simply walking around Ban Lac, strong shoes will make a big impact.
Stunning gear (seasonal) – In case of rainy weather (May–September) during your trip, a raincoat or a water-repellent jacket will work for its purpose.
Insect repellent – Most of your activity will be outdoors, and in forests and paddy lands, respectively, and insect repellent will protect your skin from mosquito bites.
A small backpack – Ideal for carrying essentials like water, sunscreen, and a camera while exploring.
Sun protection – Sunscreen, a hat, and shades will be a must, with a lot of daylight about when out and about.
Currency & Payments: Important Tips for Small Group Mai Chau Tours
Mai Chau is a rural district, and planning in financial affairs is a necessity in such a region.
Cash is king! Most hotels and homestays will, but most restaurants, shops, and markets will only receive cash.
The unit of currency preferred is Vietnamese Dong (VND), and have your money exchanged in Hanoi beforehand, as ATMs in Mai Chau are not widespread.
Small denominations can be convenient for purchasing souvenirs, street foods, and tips for guides.
Respecting Local Culture During Small Group Mai Chau Tours
One of the most rewarding experiences in Mai Chau Tours is having an opportunity to socialize with friendly and welcoming Thai ethnical communities. To have a respectful and enriching encounter, observe these tips for cultural courtesy:
Dress conservatively – As not being traditional in its clothes, in a few rural areas, dressing conservatively (especially when visiting monasteries and villages) is a mark of consideration.
Master simple greetings – a warm “Xin chao" (hello) and “Cam on" (thanks) can go a long way in developing friendly relations with native speakers.
Be respectful and ask permission – Locals can become friendly, but it’s respectful to first seek permission when taking photographs, especially with elders.
Be respectful of personal space – Locals being friendly, one must, nevertheless, pay attention to cultural variances in terms of private spaces.
Shop locally – Purchase locally produced, homemade goods, try traditional foods, and join community-run events to preserve the rich cultural heritage of Mai Chau.
Safety Tips for Trekking and Cycling on Small Group Mai Chau Tours
Regardless of whether hiking to Pu Luong Nature Reserve, hiking to Hang Chieu Cave, or cycling through peaceful paddy fields, your security must at all times have its say. To remind, below are a few tips to remember:
Hydrate – Carry a water bottle with you at all times, even in warm weather.
Follow your tour guide – Guides are experienced and trained in hosting visitors and will make your journey a memorable one.
Use proper shoes – Incline, wet trails, and rough trails dominate, and use proper trekking shoes to avoid injuries.
Be wary of the weather – Check beforehand for a forecast when planning to go out. In case of a predicted downpour, we can adjust the schedule for security-related reasons.
Cycle at a steady pace – Most of the cycling routes in Mai Chau have a level path, but exercise caution when cycling village trails or farm animals
Use insect repellent – Certain trekking trails go through wooded sections in which insects can occur, and therefore, using repellent beforehand is advisable.
Be respectful of nature – Do not disturb animals, pick flowers, or dispose of trash. All visitors must practice responsible tourism.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Small Group Mai Chau Tours
1. What is the best time to visit Mai Chau?
March to May & Sep to Nov: Best weather, lush foliage, and yellow paddy
June – August: Warm and sometimes rainy, perfect for outdoorsmen and outdoorswomen.
Cool, relaxed, and perfect for guests who enjoy a less hectic environment.
2. Are the tours suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes! There can be a family in Small Group Mai Chau Tours, children enjoy the outdoors, and older visitors can have a relaxed itinerary with cultural experiences.
3. What kind of accommodation is provided?
Homestays in Traditional Thai Stilt House: Simple and cozy with shared sleeping areas.
Private Cabins/Bungalows (Optional Upgrade Facility): Higher comfort with private facilities.
4. Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, we have vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly meals. We can simply notify you in advance.
5. What should I bring for the tour?
Light attire, soft shoes, and a light jacket
Sunscreen, shades, hat, and bug repellent
Water and cash (ATMs in Mai Chau are not numerous)
6. Is travel insurance included?
We recommend purchasing a cover for medical, trip cancelation, and activity coverage.
Conclusion
Join Small Group Mai Chau Tours for an unforgettable tour of the magnificent country and rich heritage of Mai Chau tours. Travel with family, individually, or in a private group, and have flexible tour options and secure bookings to make your tour a success.
Address: 125 Hoang Ngan, Trung Hoa, Hanoi, Vietnam
You feel like organized tour, but you are in a privet tour. Impress Travel make the different.
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.
Ebrahim
Tour of Vietnam
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!
Solly Pochee
The tour was fantastic
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
Bernard Lim
Great value for money with 4 stars hotel
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.
Derek.Schooling
We enjoyed our holiday with Impress travel
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
CHECK PRICE & AVAILABILITY - BEST QUALITY GUARANTEE
This eco way travel route to bring you via the 3 provinces in the north of Vietnam: Hoa Binh - Thanh Hoa - Ninh Binh and It is one of the most wonderful combinations between Pu Luong Tours, Mai Chau Tours, and Ninh Binh Tours.
We escape from Hanoi bristling city then explore Mai Chau by trekking and riding a bike around Poong Coong Thai Village, transfer to visit Pu Luong trekking and experience of homestay at Muong – Thai Ethnic people.
It is one of the most wonderful combinations between Ba Khan in Mai Chau Trekking Tour & Hoa Binh lake boat Trip. Then day tour to Ninh Binh with amazing landscapes and experiences of biking and rowing boat.
Mai Chau has become one of the 10 friendliest destinations in Vietnam selected by Traveller Review Awards 2023. The highlights captivate international visitors by its natural charm and national cultural identity.