North Vietnam Mu Cang Chai Eco-lodge & Trekking

Today it’s time to leave the hustle and bustle of Hanoi behind as you head northwest. Slowly the city landscape will change, and you’ll be met by views of high mountain passes, and emerald green rice terraces. Have your camera at the ready, and ask your driver to stop along the way as there are many opportunities to snap some impressive photos. En route, you’ll stop for lunch, before arriving into Mu Cang Chai in the afternoon. The journey takes between 7-9 hours but you’ll be treated to dramatic scenery and a lesser-visited area of Vietnam. After checking in to your eco-lodge you can relax on the terrace, taking in the spectacular views and breathing in the fresh mountain air.

After breakfast, it’s time to head out and explore the area on foot. You’ll be hiking for around two hours, visiting small villages where the Hmong and Thai communities reside. Take in the spectacular views of the rice terraces and quieter atmosphere of this rural area. You’ll stop for a well-deserved lunch in a village along the way before ending your walk at a hot spring. Take a dip and relax those muscles before heading back to your lodge mid-afternoon.

We’ve saved the best views until last, and early this morning, you’ll walk for an hour up to the most stunning summit in Mu Cang Chai. Here you’ll have time to enjoy the panoramic views across the valleys, rice paddies and the winding river below. After a picnic lunch, you’ll be collected and commence your journey back to Hanoi.