Mai Chau to Pu Luong: 2-Day Trek and Cycle Through Northern Vietnam’s Rice Terraces
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 days
Fitness Level
Should be comfortable with 4–6 km hikes on uneven ground and 10–20 km of easy cycling; moderate cardiovascular fitness recommended
Overview
In two days this guided loop moves from Hanoi’s edge into the terraces and limestone passes of Mai Chau and Pu Luong. Expect a mix of 4–6 km treks, village cycling, market stops and an overnight in a private room—compact, scenic, and culturally rich.
Mai Chau to Pu Luong: 2-Day Trek and Cycle Through Northern Vietnam’s Rice Terraces
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Dawn in the Red River Delta is a civil whisper; by midmorning the bus peels out of Hanoi and the city’s hum thins to the rattle of tires and the slow sweep of mountains appearing on the horizon. The first day of this two-day loop—Mai Chau to Pu Luong—unspools like a rural film: a stop at Thung Khe Pass where limestone ridges cut the sky, a market of Muong and Thai faces selling craft and produce, then a low-gear bicycle roll past paddies and stilted wooden houses.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Start early from Hanoi
Pickup is in Hanoi Old Quarter; leaving at the scheduled time avoids traffic delays and gives you more daylight for cycling and trekking.
Shoes for mixed terrain
Bring sturdy, grippy hiking shoes—the trails in Pu Luong are uneven and become slippery after rain.
Bring local currency
Small markets and village vendors often accept only cash (VND) for snacks, crafts and donations.
Respect village customs
Ask before photographing people and remove shoes if entering communal houses; modest dress is appreciated.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Asian koel (bird)
- Muntjac deer (in reserve forests)
History
Mai Chau and Pu Luong have long been home to Thai and Muong ethnic groups whose terrace farming and weaving traditions shape the local landscape.
Conservation
Pu Luong is a protected reserve; visitors are asked to minimize plastic waste and stick to trails to protect erosion-prone terraces and native forest.
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Adventure Hotspots in Mai Chau
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Trail shoes
Provide traction and ankle support on muddy terraces and rocky paths
Light waterproof jacket
Monsoon showers can be sudden—stay dry and warm during valley treks
summer specific
Reusable water bottle + purification tablets
Hydration on the trail is essential; purification gives flexibility when refilling from streams
Small daypack with rain cover
Carries snacks, camera, layers and keeps gear protected during cycling and hiking