Mong Ngua Trek To Mam Xoi Hill
- 9:30 AM
- 5-6 Hours/day
- 40-45 Km
- Challenge
Mong Ngua Trek to Mam Xoi Hill – 3 days, 2 nights trekking program not only takes you to see some of the best destinations in Mu Cang Chai but also in Viet Nam are sunset Mong Ngua Viewpoint, bigest Bamboo Forest, Dinosaur Spine and renowned Mam Xoi Hill. With visits to Hmong and Thai villages, this tour offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion.
Detailed Itinerary:
Day 1: Mong Ngua Viewpoint & Bamboo Forest Trek (12–15 km)
Morning:
- Start from the Trekking Mu Cang Chai office or your hotel.
- Trek uphill (~2 km) to Mong Ngua Viewpoint, a famous spot for terraced field photography. Spend 20–30 minutes taking photos and enjoying the view.
Midday:
- Continue to Sang Nhu Village, a Hmong settlement with colorful costumes, traditional houses, and daily life items.
- Reach the Bamboo Forest, a serene location perfect for a picnic lunch.
Afternoon:
- Visit a traditional Hmong house in Mang Mu Village to learn about local life.
- Descend ~5 km to a Thai Village, 1 km from Mu Cang Chai town, to stay overnight.
- Enjoy dinner and cultural exchanges with your Thai hosts.
Day 2: Along Nam Kim River to Mam Xoi Hill (15–17 km)
Morning:
- Depart from the Thai village and trek on a steep trail to Hang Dang De Village, a Hmong community known for its terraced fields and vibrant culture.
Midday:
- Follow a deserted trail flanked by high mountains, small waterfalls, and winding Nam Kim Stream.
- Stop for a picnic lunch along the route.
Afternoon:
- Reach the Dinosaur Spine, a panoramic viewpoint overlooking five villages: Kim Noi, Mo De, Che Cu Nha, La Pan Tan, and De Xu Phinh. Spend 20–30 minutes enjoying the scenery.
- Cross a wooden bridge over Nam Kim Stream and ascend a 2 km slope to a homestay above Mam Xoi Hill relax and enjoy dinner at the homestay.
Day 3: Discover La Pan Tan & Che Cu Nha Villages (8–10 km)
Morning:
- Depart from the homestay and trek to La Pan Tan Village, famed for its stunning terraced fields.
- Walk ~5 km and stop for lunch inside a farmer’s hut, enjoying the breathtaking surroundings.
Afternoon:
- Continue to Che Cu Nha Village, where your guide will share interesting stories about the village’s history.
- Descend to National Highway QL 32, where a car will transfer you back to the office or your accommodation.
Useful informations:
Pricing:
Number of Guests | Price per Person (USD) |
1 Pax | $150 |
2 Pax | $130 |
3 Pax | $130 |
4 Pax | $120 |
5 Pax | $120 |
6–10 Pax | $115 |
Private Tour Option:
- Pricing adjusts to group size.
- If no additional participants join a group tour, the price reflects the actual number of participants.
Inclusions:
- Water: 3 large bottles (1 per day).
- Meals:
- Day 1: Lunch and dinner.
- Day 2: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- Day 3: Breakfast and lunch.
- 2 nights in homestays.
- Professional guide.
- Entrance tickets.
- Car or motorbike transfers as needed.
Guest Preparations:
- Raincoat.
- Mosquito cream.
- Sunscreen.
- Hat.
- Comfortable trekking shoes.
Child Policy:
- 0–5 years old: Free.
- 6–11 years old: 75% of adult price.
- 12+ years old: Full price.
Cancellation Policy:
- 7+ days before tour start date: Full refund.
- 6–2 days before tour start date: 50% refund.
- 1 day or same day of tour start date: No refund.
Payment Options:
- Cash (VND, USD, EUR).
- PayPal.
Mu Cang Chai – Everything You Need to Know
If you’re looking for detailed information about Mu Cang Chai, Vietnam, there’s no need to spend more time searching elsewhere. Simply focus on carefully reading the content below. It will undoubtedly provide you with the most useful, high-quality, and comprehensive information to help you plan your trip effectively.
Where is Mu Cang Chai?
Nestled in the majestic Northwest region of Vietnam, Mu Cang Chai is a rural district in Yen Bai Province, approximately 300 kilometers from Hanoi. Known as one of the most stunning destinations in Vietnam, it is famous for its breathtaking terraced rice fields, recognized as a national heritage site. Surrounded by the Hoang Lien Son mountain range, Mu Cang Chai sits at an altitude of around 1,000 meters, offering visitors a cool, refreshing climate and awe-inspiring landscapes.
Mu Cang Chai is not just a geographical location; it is a cultural and natural treasure. This area is predominantly home to ethnic minorities such as the Hmong people – 90%, who have cultivated the terraced fields for centuries. These terraces are ingeniously carved into the mountains, creating golden waves during the rice harvest season from September to October, and lush green layers during the planting season from May to June. Thai people – 7%, who live the valleys near small streams. Kinh people – 3 %, who live near by the market or high way.
Reaching Mu Cang Chai is an adventure in itself. From Hanoi, travelers can take a scenic drive along winding mountain roads that offer views of forests, valleys, and rivers. Options for transport include private cars, motorbikes, and buses, each providing a unique way to experience the journey.
Whether you are a photography enthusiast, a trekking lover, or someone seeking tranquility in nature, Mu Cang Chai is an ideal destination. Its serene beauty, coupled with the hospitality of the locals, makes it a must-visit for anyone exploring Vietnam. As a hidden gem tucked away in the mountains, Mu Cang Chai awaits those who yearn for untouched beauty and an authentic cultural experience.
Why should you visit Mu Cang Chai instead of Sa Pa?
While Sa Pa is a popular tourist destination with stunning scenery and vibrant culture, Mu Cang Chai offers a quieter, more authentic and less commercialized experience, which makes the difference. For travelers looking for pristine beauty and a deeper connection with nature, Mu Cang Chai is the ideal choice.
First of all
The terraced fields in Mu Cang Chai are unparalleled, not only the most beautiful in Vietnam but also possibly the most beautiful in the world, for example, if you have been to Bali and thought it was beautiful, then you should come to Mu Cang Chai and find the terraced fields here dozens of times more beautiful. These terraced fields are less crowded and offer a more authentic experience than Sa Pa. During the harvest season, from August to October, the golden fields spread over the mountains like sparkling waves, creating a spectacular sight. Unlike Sa Pa, where tourism has significantly affected the local culture, Mu Cang Chai has retained its original charm and authenticity.
Second
Another appealing reason to choose Mu Cang Chai is the unique cultural experience. The area is mainly inhabited by the H’Mong ethnic group, who have lived and farmed here for hundreds of years, and their traditional way of life is still well preserved. Visitors can explore remote villages, interact with locals and witness traditional crafts such as weaving and farming, beeswax painting, and brocade dyeing. This is a rare opportunity to experience Vietnam’s ethnic diversity in a setting untouched by mass tourism.
Furthermore, Mu Cang Chai offers an adventurous journey through winding mountain roads, with breathtaking views of valleys, rivers and jungles along the way. Unlike Sa Pa, which is more accessible and crowded, the road to Mu Cang Chai is like a hidden trail leading to paradise.
For those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of tourist destinations and explore a place of peace, natural beauty and authentic culture, Mu Cang Chai is the perfect alternative to Sa Pa.
Last
Many travelers have met in Mu Cang Chai, including those returning from Sa Pa and those traveling up from Hanoi. When they meet, the travelers returning from Sa Pa often tell those coming from Hanoi that they shouldn’t continue to Sa Pa but instead stay and experience Mu Cang Chai before moving on to other destinations. They emphasize that Mu Cang Chai is far more worthwhile than Sa Pa, by a significant margin. These are the words of advice from travelers who have been to Sa Pa for those planning to visit it.
The Best Time to Visit Mu Cang Chai
August to mid-October
The ideal time to visit Mu Cang Chai is during the rice harvest season, which typically occurs from August to mid-October. At this time, the terraced fields are at their most beautiful, turning a radiant golden hue and creating a stunning, picturesque landscape. This season is perfect for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers who want to capture the majestic beauty of the rice terraces against the backdrop of the Hoang Lien Son mountain range. It is also the best time for exploring and experiencing Mu Cang Chai, whether through trekking or traveling by car or motorbike.
May to June
Another wonderful time to visit is during the planting season, from May to June, when the terraced fields are filled with water. The water reflects the sky, creating a mesmerizing mirror effect and giving the fields a surreal and unique beauty. This period is ideal for those who want to witness the farmers working on the fields with their buffaloes, planting rice, and experiencing the authentic and fascinating traditional agricultural practices and daily life of the locals.
July to August
From July to August, though it is the rainy season, the rainfall does not significantly hinder your trip. This is the time to admire the vibrant green waves of rice paddies stretching up to the mountain peaks. If you prefer to see lush green fields, this is the best period. Be sure to bring waterproof shoes and a raincoat if you plan to visit during July or August.
Other seasons
The remaining months are considered the dry season in Mu Cang Chai, with weather ranging from cool to chilly, especially at night during December, January, and February. Warm clothing, such as jackets, sweaters, masks, and gloves, is essential. During this time, we recommend trekking trips in Mu Cang Chai rather than riding motorbikes, as it can be quite cold on the road.
In summary, every season offers unique experiences and different kinds of beauty, depending on personal preferences. For more information to help plan your visit to Mu Cang Chai, feel free to contact the Trekking Mu Cang Chai Team. We are a group of Hmong guides living and working in Mu Cang Chai and will provide you with the best advice for your trip.
What to Eat, Where to Visit, and Where to Stay in Mu Cang Chai?
What to Eat?
Food in Mu Cang Chai is mostly locally sourced and self-sustained, so you can be assured of food safety. What to eat depends on where you are staying:
- In the town center: Enjoy meals at local restaurants, with prices ranging from 50,000 VND to 150,000 VND per serving, offering decent to good quality.
- At homestays: It’s highly recommended to dine at your homestay, where you’ll not only enjoy delicious and safe meals but also learn about the culture and cuisine from your hosts.
- Specialties to try: Don’t miss Tu Le sticky rice and green rice (com) made from young rice grains, both famous local delicacies.
Where to Visit?
The best attractions depend on the season, but here are some places with year-round beauty to ensure your trip is worthwhile:
- Khau Pha Pass: One of the four great mountain passes in Northern Vietnam, offering breathtaking scenery.
- Mu Cang Chai Bamboo Forest: A mesmerizing destination resembling the bamboo forests in Chinese martial arts movies, this spot is stunning all year round.
- Mam Xoi Terrace Fields: Located in Hau De Village, La Pan Tan Commune, this “stairway to heaven” features mesmerizing layers of terraced fields that stretch from the base to the summit of the mountains.
- Dinosaur Spine in De Xu Phinh Commune: Offering the most panoramic views in Mu Cang Chai, it’s the perfect spot to watch the sunrise and enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the area.
- Seven-Tier Waterfall in Pung Luong Commune: A new and untouched location, accessible only by trekking about 1 km along a trail. It features pristine waterfalls with cool and clean water, perfect for nature lovers.
Where to Stay?
There are plenty of accommodation options depending on your budget and preferences:
- Town center: For convenience, stay in Mu Cang Chai town center.
- Homestays: For the best experience, choose a homestay 5–20 km from the center. These are run by locals who can greatly enhance your journey with their knowledge and hospitality.
For a hassle-free and enjoyable trip, consider partnering with the Trekking Mu Cang Chai team. We promise to provide you with the best, most exciting, and easiest experience possible!
How to Get to Mu Cang Chai?
Hanoi
- Fastest, most convenient, and most expensive option:
Take a private car with driver to pick you up from your hotel and take you directly to Mu Cang Chai. The journey takes approximately 6 hours, with costs starting at $130 per trip for a 4-seater car or larger. This is the best option for families, elderly travelers, or large groups with a flexible budget. - Slowest, cheapest, and basic option:
Take a bus from My Dinh Bus Station (Address: 32 Pham Hung Street, My Dinh, Nam Tu Liem, Hanoi, Vietnam). Buses depart at 9 AM, 10 AM, 2 PM, 6 PM, and 7 PM, and the journey takes 7–8 hours. Ticket prices start at $13 per person. This option is suitable for budget travelers, young individuals, solo adventurers, or young couples who don’t mind a longer journey and average quality.
Sa Pa
- Private car: Starting at $80 per trip, the journey takes approximately 4 hours.
- Local bus: Costs around $10 per trip.
From Other Locations
If you’re traveling from places like Ha Giang, Dien Bien, Son La, Mai Chau, Moc Chau, Pu Luong, or Ninh Binh, feel free to contact us for detailed guidance on how to reach Mu Cang Chai from your starting point. We’re here to help make your journey as smooth as possible!
Why Should You Trekking in Mu Cang Chai?
Mu Cang Chai’s terrain is characterized by high, steep mountains and narrow, winding roads, making it unsuitable for motorbikes or cars in many areas. To fully immerse yourself in the area’s breathtaking beauty, hiking is the best way to explore the wild landscapes, unique culture and warm hospitality of the locals.
A relatively new destination for tourists, Mu Cang Chai offers a peaceful and quiet atmosphere, even during peak season. Unlike crowded places like Sa Pa, Ha Giang, Ninh Binh or Ha Long, Mu Cang Chai offers a quiet getaway, perfect for those looking for tranquility and connection with nature.
Why Choose Us?
We are a dedicated team of Hmong locals passionate about sharing the breathtaking beauty and unique culture of Mu Cang Chai with visitors. As experienced local guides, we know every corner of this stunning region and are committed to giving you an unforgettable journey.
Our mission is to take you beyond just sightseeing. We aim to provide not only visual experiences but also meaningful connections that touch your heart. Whether it’s the awe-inspiring landscapes or the warm hospitality of our community, your journey with us will be richer than you imagined. This belief is reflected in our slogan: “What you see more than you think.”
We offer a variety of trip options tailored to suit different ages, fitness levels, and interests. From tranquil walks through terraced rice fields to adventurous treks in the mountains, we ensure every traveler finds a perfect fit for their journey.
When you choose us, you are not just exploring Mu Cang Chai — you are discovering its soul, guided by those who call it home. Let us help you create memories that will last a lifetime.
Tips for Visiting Mu Cang Chai
1. Respect the Local People
Always show respect to the locals. Avoid taking photos or filming them, especially the elderly, without their permission. They may feel uncomfortable or even ask for a fee in return.
2. Be Mindful of the Terraced Fields
During the rice harvest season, when visiting the terraced fields, do not step on the crops or knock off any grains of rice. Even a single grain represents the hard work and effort of farmers throughout the year.
3. Follow Local Customs in Villages
If you visit villages without a local guide, refrain from entering local homes without an invitation. Even standing on the porch requires caution as some houses observe specific spiritual customs and taboos. On certain days, villagers may avoid welcoming guests due to cultural or religious reasons, and intruding could inadvertently disturb their practices.
4. Avoid Giving Gifts or Money to Children
Do not give money or gifts to children. This practice can encourage them to rely on tourists for income and abandon school. We aim to prevent Mu Cang Chai from becoming another overly commercialized destination like Sa Pa.
5. Avoid Driving Yourself Unless Experienced
If you lack an international driver’s license, proper age, or experience navigating mountain roads, avoid driving cars or motorbikes in Mu Cang Chai. Many accidents have involved foreign tourists driving without preparation. The safest and most comfortable option is to hire a local driver, allowing you to enjoy the scenery stress-free.
If you have any other questions or concerns, feel free to contact us for assistance. Your safety and a respectful experience are our priorities.