The Mai Chau’s proximity to the capital makes it an ideal escape for nature lovers. Here, small ethnic minority villages sit among a patchwork of paddy fields surrounded by green mountains. Spend a night or two immersed in Vietnam’s rural culture, dining on delicious home-cooked cuisine, and learning about the traditions of the ethnic groups.

Top things to do in Mai Chau

Sleep in a homestay

The Mai Chau Valley is home to two excellent homestay tourism villages: Lac and Pom Coong. In both villages, White Thai families offer simple accommodation in stilt houses in an idyllic setting of verdant jungle, limestone outcrops, and mountain tops.

Cycle around the valley

Exploring the many quiet ribbons of paths that connect clusters of stilt houses might be the greatest pleasure you’ll have in Mai Chau. It doesn’t take long to feel like you’ve found your own quiet corner, riding past humble villages and rice paddies.

Shop for local crafts

Mai Chau has no shortage of intricate fabrics woven by skilled weavers on ancient looms. A little gentle bargaining is expected and even welcomed. On Sunday, the morning market attracts ethnic minorities dressed in their finest traditional clothing.

Eat with the locals

Known for their warm hospitality, the White Thai are also fantastic cooks and serve up excellent home-cooked feasts for dinner. The meals you’re served at the homestays in Mai Chau might be some of the best on your Vietnam trip.

Plan a day trek

For a full day trip, spring for a kayaking excursion on Hoa Binh Lake, a beautiful body of water surrounded by jungled hills. Or venture further to Pu Luong Nature Reserve where cool, fresh streams run among the trees, feeding waterfalls and aquamarine pools.