Mai Chau: Forest, Wetlands, Village Tour, with Lunch

Hanoi Old Quarter, Vietnam



Experience a slow journey through forest paths, calm waters, and rural village life. Designed for travelers who value presence over packed itineraries in Ha Noi.

Highlights

  • Enjoy a scenic Trang An boat ride through caves and limestone mountains
  • Climb Mua Cave peak for panoramic views of Tam Coc valley
  • Trek across terraced rice fields and Pu Luong villages
  • Experience Thai culture, silk weaving, and local traditions
  • Go bamboo rafting on Cham Stream with a unique floating lunch

Description

Embark on a 3-day journey through the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Ninh Binh and Pu Luong. Begin with a limousine transfer from Hanoi to the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, where you’ll visit the temples of Kings Dinh and Le and learn about Vietnam’s early dynasties. Enjoy a buffet lunch before continuing to Trang An for a serene 2-hour boat ride through limestone mountains and cave tunnels featured in the movie Kong: Skull Island. Cycle through peaceful villages and finish the day by climbing Mua Cave’s 500 steps to admire panoramic views of Tam Coc. Check in to your selected hotel or homestay in Ninh Binh, relax, and enjoy dinner before exploring the local night market. Day 1: Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Hoa Lu - Trang An - Mua Cave • 07:15-7:30: Pick-up from your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter and depart for Ninh Binh by limousine. • 09:15: Short break en route. • 10:30: Visit Hoa Lu ancient capital and the Dinh & Le temples. • 11:45: Buffet lunch with local specialties at Ninh Binh Heritage restaurant. • 13:00: Boat trip in Trang An UNESCO heritage complex. • 15:00: Cycle through local villages. • 15:45: Visit Mua Cave and hike to the summit for breathtaking views. • 17:00: Check in to a hotel city view/homestay garden view in Ninh Binh. Free time to relax or swim. • 19:00: Dinner with local cuisine. Evening free to explore Hoa Lu night market. Day 2: Transfer to Pu Luong - Trekking & Local Culture • 08:00-08:30: Pick-up from your hotel and depart for Pu Luong Nature Reserve. • 11:30: Arrive in Pu Luong, check in, and have lunch. • 13:30-14:00: Start a gentle trek through rice terraces, rolling hills, and traditional villages. • Interact with local families, learn about daily life, and observe stilt-house craftsmanship. • Stop at a local spring for a refreshing break and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. • Experience authentic local cuisine and culture in a traditional village. • 16:30–17:00: Return and check in at a mountain-view resort/garden-view homestay in Pu Luong. • Relax at the pool and enjoy dinner at around 19:00. Day 3: Lan Village - Waterwheels - Trekking - Bamboo Rafting - Floating Lunch • 08:00-08:30: Check out and depart for Lan Village, passing mountains and rice fields. • Visit a Thai household and learn silk weaving from cocoon to fabric. Try weaving yourself. • Continue to Chieng Lau Village to witness ancient waterwheels and traditional farming practices. • 10:00: Start a 4 km scenic trek from Chieng Lau to Cham Stream. Stop at a traditional house for cultural interaction. • 10:45: Arrive at Cham Stream for a relaxing bamboo rafting trip. Enjoy a special floating lunch surrounded by forest, rice fields, and village scenery. • 12:30: End of tour and transfer back to Hanoi. • 18:30-19:00: Arrival in Hanoi. The tour ends.

Includes

Private room in homestay, hotel or resort with balcony mountain view or garden view Transportation: Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Pu Luong - Hanoi with an experienced driver Small group experience All meals on the trip: 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 2 dinners Bamboo rafting experience with an onboard lunch included Visits to local houses, waterwheels, and farms English-speaking local guides in Ninh Binh and Pu Luong Trekking in the village All entrance fees, such as the boat trip, Mua Cave, temple visits, and activities mentioned in the itinerary Bottled water on tour

Excludes

Solo traveler single supplement: Homestay +USD 30, Eco Lodge +USD 45 and Eco Resort +USD 60 Drinks with meals Tips for guide and driver (optional) Insurance

Important Information

  • Pick-up and Drop-off Policy: We will pick you up in Hanoi by limousine bus, from Ninh Binh to Pu Luong by minivan 16 seats and drop off in Ha Noi by limousine bus 9-11 seats
  • Child Policy: Children aged 0–4: Parents are responsible for all expenses; Children aged 4–9: Share a bed with parents
  • Accommodation Policy: If the listed hotels are fully booked, similar standard accommodation will be provided
  • Trip Coordination: The operator team will contact you via WhatsApp before your pick-up date to confirm details, give you guidance and support throughout the tour and address your questions and requests
  • Luggage: Large luggage can be stored at your hotel prior to departure; alternatively, please inform us in advance if you will be bringing oversized suitcases - a backpack with essentials, comfortable clothes, and shoes is recommended
  • Group Size: To ensure your safety and comfort, our guided small groups are 10-12 participants

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

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