Mai Chau - Discovering Vietnam

Travelling to Mai Chau

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Mai Chau, a pretty good destination in Vietnam (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Mai Chau and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Mai Chau, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Vietnam, here's everything to know about Mai Chau for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Mai Chau

Mai Chau is a rural district located in the northern province of Hoa Binh, Vietnam. It is situated in a picturesque valley surrounded by high limestone mountains and lush green rice fields. The region is home to several ethnic minorities, including the White Thai people who are known for their traditional stilt houses, colorful costumes, and the unique cultural practices that have been passed down through generations. Mai Chau is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts and is a great place for hiking, cycling, trekking, bird watching and cultural tours. This region also has a lively market scene, where travelers can shop for local handicrafts, souvenirs, and taste the delicious Vietnamese cuisine.

What to visit in Mai Chau

Mai Chau is a beautiful district in Vietnam known for its breathtaking landscape, rich cultural experience and traditional villages. Here are some of the must-see tourist attractions in Mai Chau along with some information on each: 1. Lac Village - This village is the heart of the Thai ethnic minority people in Mai Chau. It's known for its stilt houses and handicrafts such as weaving. Visitors can take part in the daily life activities of the Thai people and experience the local culture.
2. Poom Coong Village - This village is home to the White Thai ethnic minority people. It's known for its traditional architecture, especially the stilt houses. Visitors can also enjoy traditional dance performances.
3. Mo Luong Cave - This is a beautiful limestone cave located in the heart of Mai Chau. Visitors can explore the cave and admire its unique and stunning formations.
4. Thung Khe Pass - This is a scenic mountain pass that offers a stunning view of Mai Chau valley. It's a perfect spot for trekking, hiking, and taking pictures.
5. Chieu Cave - This cave is famous for its picturesque setting, unique formations, and rich history. Local legends and stories say that the cave was used as a hiding place for soldiers during the war.
6. Go Lao Waterfall - This is a stunning waterfall located in the middle of the jungle. Visitors can hike through the jungle to get to the waterfall, enjoy swimming in the natural pool, and relax in the peaceful setting.
7. Mai Chau Valley - This is the main attraction of Mai Chau. The valley is surrounded by green mountains, picturesque rice terraces, and traditional stilt houses. Visitors can take in the breathtaking scenery while enjoying cycling or trekking.
Overall, Mai Chau has many amazing attractions that offer unique experiences and incredible views.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Vietnam, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Mai Chau.

When to go on holiday to Mai Chau

The best time to visit Mai Chau, Vietnam is from October to April, during the dry season. During this time, the weather is pleasant, with warm temperatures during the day and cool temperatures at night. May to September is the rainy season, so it can be humid and rainy, making outdoor activities difficult. However, if you don't mind the rain, the lush green landscape and reduced tourist crowds can make the off-season an attractive option.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Mai Chau

To get to Mai Chau in Vietnam, you have a few options: 1. By Bus: You can take a bus from Hanoi to Mai Chau. The journey takes about 4-5 hours. You can catch a bus from My Dinh bus station or Yen Nghia bus station in Hanoi.
2. By Private Car: You can hire a private car to take you to Mai Chau. This is a more comfortable option, but it will cost you more than taking a bus.
3. By Motorbike: If you are adventurous and love to ride a motorbike, then you can rent a motorbike in Hanoi and ride to Mai Chau. The journey takes around 4-5 hours.
No matter which option you choose, I recommend booking your transportation in advance to ensure you have a seat or vehicle reserved.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Mai Chau, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Mai Chau

Sure, here are some typical foods of Mai Chau in Vietnam: 1. Com Lam: Com Lam or bamboo sticky rice is a traditional dish that is made by cooking sticky rice inside a bamboo tube over an open flame. The bamboo gives the rice a unique aroma and taste.
2. Cha Com: Cha Com is a type of fried spring roll filled with crushed young sticky rice and ground pork. It is served hot with sweet and sour dipping sauce.
3. Banh Gio: Banh Gio is a steamed triangular rice dumpling filled with minced pork, wood ear mushrooms, and shallots. It is wrapped in a banana leaf and typically served with sweet chili dipping sauce.
4. Xoi Trung Cut: Xoi Trung Cut is sticky rice mixed with chopped green onions and topped with quail eggs. It is a popular breakfast dish in Mai Chau.
5. Thang Co: Thang Co is a traditional Hmong stew made with horse meat, offal, and vegetables such as cabbage, carrots, and turnips. It is slow-cooked over an open fire for several hours and is served hot.
6. Canh Bau: Canh Bau is a pumpkin soup made with ground pork, crab meat, and vermicelli noodles. The soup is simmered with pumpkin pieces until they are soft and tender.
7. Nem Chua: Nem Chua is a traditional Vietnamese fermented pork roll. It is made by mixing ground pork with garlic, chilies, sugar, and fish sauce. The mixture is then wrapped in banana leaves and left to ferment for several days.
I hope this helps you plan your trip to Mai Chau!
You can find general info about typical foods in Vietnam here.

Is Mai Chau an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other popular tourist destinations in Vietnam, Mai Chau can be considered as a moderately-priced destination. Accommodations in Mai Chau range from budget-friendly homestays to higher-end resort-style accommodations, with prices typically ranging from around $10 to $100 per night. Activities in Mai Chau, such as cycling tours and trekking, can also be relatively affordable, with prices depending on the length and type of activity you choose.
Food and drink can be inexpensive in Mai Chau, with many local eateries offering delicious and affordable meals. However, some of the higher-end restaurants may have prices similar to those in more expensive tourist areas.
Overall, Mai Chau can be a more affordable option compared to other popular tourist destinations in Vietnam such as Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.

Where to find accomodation in Mai Chau

Mai Chau is a small valley located in the Hoa Binh Province of Vietnam and most accommodations are located in the Mai Chau town area. However, there are also some traditional homestays and small guesthouses scattered throughout the nearby villages. Some popular areas to find accommodation in Mai Chau include: 1. Mai Chau Town - This is the most convenient area to stay in Mai Chau, with easy access to shops, restaurants, and local attractions.
2. Lac Village - This is a traditional village located just 3km from Mai Chau Town and offers an authentic experience with homestays and a stunning mountainous landscape.
3. Poom Coong Village - Another traditional village located near Mai Chau town, known for its handicrafts and cultural heritage.
4. Ban Buoc Village - This remote village offers a peaceful escape from tourist crowds and is known for its beautiful rice fields and mountain landscapes.
Overall, the area is not large and most accommodations are clustered around the main town and few traditional villages, making it easy to explore and experience all that Mai Chau has to offer.
You can check hotel prices at Mai Chau here:
Booking.com

Is Mai Chau a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Mai Chau in Vietnam is generally a safe place for tourists. However, as with any destination, it is important to exercise caution and use common sense when traveling. This may include being mindful of your belongings, avoiding unfamiliar or poorly lit areas at night, and being aware of your surroundings when in crowded places. It is also a good idea to stay up-to-date on any news or travel advisories for the area. Overall, Mai Chau is a great destination for tourists looking to experience the beautiful countryside and culture of Vietnam.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Vietnam here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Mai Chau.

What type of travelers will enjoy Mai Chau the most?

Mai Chau is a scenic destination located in northwestern Vietnam. This place is suitable for travelers who love nature, outdoor adventure, and cultural experiences. Here are some types of travelers who will enjoy the most in Mai Chau: 1. Nature lovers: Mai Chau is blessed with stunning scenery, mountains, and rice terraces. The area is also home to ethnic minority communities who have preserved their traditional customs and practices for centuries.
2. Outdoor enthusiasts: Mai Chau offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as trekking, hiking, biking, and kayaking. Travelers can explore the countryside on foot or by bike, or paddle along the picturesque lakes and rivers.
3. Cultural tourists: Visitors can immerse themselves into the unique culture of Thai ethnic minorities who have lived in this area for generations. Mai Chau also has several traditional homestays where guests can experience the local way of life, enjoy local cuisine, and learn about traditional crafts like weaving.
4. Families: Mai Chau is a family-friendly destination with a relaxed atmosphere. Children can enjoy the outdoors, explore the local villages, and learn about a different way of living than their own.
Overall, Mai Chau is suitable for anyone looking for a peaceful and serene place to unwind, surrounded by natural beauty and cultural experiences.

How to get around Mai Chau

There are several transportation options to move around Mai Chau, Vietnam. Some of the most common ones are: 1. Motorbike: You can rent a motorbike in Mai Chau to explore the surrounding areas and villages. It's a popular choice among visitors because it gives you more freedom and flexibility.
2. Bicycle: Bicycles are also available for rent and offer a more eco-friendly way of getting around Mai Chau. It's a great way to enjoy the beautiful scenery and immerse yourself in the local culture.
3. Private car or taxi: You can hire a private car or taxi to take you around Mai Chau. This is a good option if you're traveling with a group or have limited time.
4. Local bus: The local bus is the most affordable option to move around Mai Chau. However, it's not the most convenient as the schedules can be irregular and the buses can get crowded.

What to see around Mai Chau

Sure, here are some nice places you can visit in a day trip from Mai Chau, Vietnam: 1. Pu Luong Nature Reserve 2. Thung Khe Pass 3. Ninh Binh Province (Trang An or Tam Coc) 4. Hoa Binh Lake 5. Ba Khan Lake 6. Perfume Pagoda 7. Cuc Phuong National Park These places offer scenic and natural beauty and make great day-trip destinations. The time required to travel to each of these places may vary, so please plan accordingly.
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