Known for its beaches, traumatic history, and bustling cities, Vietnam’s best kept secret may be its trekking destinations. The areas of Mai Chau and Pu Long are full of great hiking trails, stunning scenery, and local hilltribes which are waiting to be discovered.

From Hanoi travel southwest toward the Laos border. The change in scenery is dramatic as you leave behind the flat, busy streets of the capital and reach the limestone karsts and rolling green hills of the Mai Chau area.

The trek is a fantastic mix of walking, village exploration, and local interaction. During the daytime the fresh air and sweeping views are sure to delight, while at night time, enjoy traditional dance performances, local food, and overnight stays in village homes or eco-lodges.

The terrain and scenery are varied, some days trekking steep ascents and descents along mountain ridges whilst other days see you crossing streams by wooden suspension bridges. Spend a day hiking along the Ho Chi Minh Trail, a historic walk along the path once used to transport goods to the resistance fighters, to reach Pu Luong nature reserve.

The people of the area are as diverse as the terrain. Trek through villages inhabited by ethnic minorities such as H’mong and Thai and observe their traditional way of living and unique customs. Stop at markets in remote locations where the area’s residents trek hours each week to buy and sell goods.

After five days of hard, but rewarding, trekking a trip to Halong Bay is the perfect reward. Enjoy a day trip aboard a wooden junk. Marvel at the spectacular scenery, swim in the clear waters, and feast on a seafood lunch.

For those wishing to explore the beauty of Northwest Vietnam, the ‘Mai Chau and Pu Long Trek’ is a perfect blend of cultural discovery and outdoor activity.

Welcome to Hanoi. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy a walking tour through the streets of the capital where you can explore the local markets, tranquil lakes, and street side coffee shops that fill the city.  This evening, meet your trekking guides for a trip briefing before feasting on a delicious Vietnamese meal.

Overnight in Hanoi.

This morning you leave early and head southwest to Mai Chau, past sweeping vistas of lush hills and limestone karsts.  After lunch, stretch your legs with a walk around the village of Pom Coong, inhabited by the Thai people. As you enjoy a barbeque dinner, watch a performance of local dance and music. (Today’s trek is 6km)

Overnight in local home in Pom Coong.

Transfer to the village of Xa Linh for the start of your trek along a mixture of paths, streambeds, and steep jungle hillsides reaching a H’mong village for a late lunch. This afternoon is mainly downhill, trekking along tracks which wind through hamlets, across small streams, and over suspension bridges.  As you approach the village of Cun Pheo, soak in the beautiful scenery of the Mai Chau valley. (Today’s trek is 21km, 9-10hrs)

Overnight in homestay, Cun Pheo.

Today, experience the diversity of Vietnam as you trek through indigenous villages belonging to the region’s different tribes.  After lunch, transfer to Sai village for the trek to Hang Village, an oasis in the middle of Pu Luong Nature reserve.  This path follows a route once used as part of the Ho Chi Minh trail during the Vietnam War to supply the resistance, but now is a tranquil area perfect for a late afternoon trek. (Today’s trek 25km, 8-10 hrs)

Overnight in Hang Village.

Today, hike through the Pu Luong valley with steep ascents and relaxing downhills.  Reach Kho Muong for your overnight stay, an incredibly scenic village nestled between steep limestone karts and lush, verdant hills.  Should you have enough energy remaining, take a short walk out to a nearby cave for some adventurous exploring. (Today’s trek 18km, 6-8hrs)

Overnight in homestay, Kho Muong. 

Today begins with a challenging but glorious downhill hike which takes you to the Nature Reserve’s only market. The vendors are from nearby villages and they trek two hours uphill to bring their produce and goods to sell.  After this fascinating market visit, continue on foot to the beautiful surroundings of the Nua Village eco-lodge.   (Today’s trek 18km, 6-7hrs)

Overnight in Nua Village.

The last day of trekking takes you from the mountains and paddy fields to Tom village.  From here you will be picked up and transferred back to Hanoi, arriving late this afternoon. Relax and freshen up before dinner at a delicious Vietnamese restaurant. (Today’s trek 11km, 4-5hrs)

Overnight in Hanoi

Travel from Hanoi through the Red River Delta to Halong Bay.  Spend the day cruising aboard a wooden junk boat, traveling amongst the limestone karsts and beautiful waters of the bay.  Visit a cave and go for a swim before settling in for an evening of relaxation and dining on board your boat of choice.

Overnight on Halong Bay 

On your return to Halong City enjoy a wholesome brunch as your boat weaves through strange-shaped limestone rock formations. Upon disembarkation your driver will meet you for the transfer back to Hanoi.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Today is at your leisure for last minute shopping or sightseeing before transferring to the airport for your onward flight.