Cycling in the North West highlands of Mai Chau is a great way to see this fascinating and visually stunning part of Vietnam, offering both physical activity and the unique opportunity to observe a way of life that has changed little over the centuries. As we cycle we encounter Muong and White Thai inhabitants and are guests in their traditional stilt houses allowing us to see firsthand how these minority peoples live. Our modern lightweight European bikes make exploring this part of the country an enjoyable and relatively easy experience and there is a support vehicle on hand if necessary.

Day 1: Hanoi – Hoa Binh (80km) (L/D)
Day 2: Hoa Binh – Mai Chau – Lac village (65km) (B/L/D)

Day 3: Lac village – Van village (22km) (B/L/D)
Day 4: Van village – Lac village (20km) (B/L)

 

Day 1: Hanoi – Hoa Binh (80km) (L/D)

In the morning we cycle out of Hanoi and head for Hoa Binh town. Along the way we will make several stops, the first of which is the Van Phuc silk village, approximately 12km southwest of the capital. From Van Phuc we continue on to the Ho Chi Minh Trail Museum. Our third and final stop is at the Dau Pagoda, whose origins date back to the 3rd century. From Dau Pagoda we cycle the remaining 50km to Hoa Binh town, where we spend the night.

Day 2: Hoa Binh – Mai Chau – Lac village (65km) (B/L/D)

Today we set off for Mai Chau town. As the road becomes very steep in parts we combine cycling with driving in the support vehicle. Upon arrival in Mai Chau we move to the nearby White Thai village of Lac where we have lunch in a traditional stilt house. After lunch we take to our bikes to discover some of the neighboring villages in the valley. Later we return to the village of Lac where we spend the night.

Day 3: Lac village – Van village (22km) (B/L/D)

We leave Lac and cycle through some beautiful countryside en route to the village of Van. Along the way we pass through several Thai and Muong hamlets and have lunch in another village. We cycle along the valley floor and are constantly surrounded by stunning scenery, arriving at Van village by late afternoon. Here there is time to walk around this charming little village before dinner. The village is also home to the White Thai people, but unlike Lac it has remained completely unchanged by the advent of tourism. Tonight we will be their guests in one of their traditional stilt houses.

Day 4: Van village – Lac village (20km) (B/L)

Although we return to Lac we take a totally different route. Today’s cycling will probably be the hardest so far as we climb hills and descend into valleys. As before we will pass through many Thai and Muong minority’s villages, which are sure to greet us with smiles and quite possibly a degree of fascination! Arriving in Lac around midday we once again take a well-earned lunch in the village. There will be time for a little rest before we join our support vehicle for the return drive to Hanoi.

 

Group of	2	3-5	6 - 9	10 - 15	16 - 20	21 up	Single supplement
Price in US$

Trip includes:

• All transportation and transfers
• Specialist Matts Sport 100 Bicycles
• English speaking guide cum cycling guide
• All accommodation
• Meals as indicated in the itinerary
• Admission fees and permits where applicable
• Drinking water during the trip
  
  
  

Trip does not include:

• International flights
• International departure tax
• Visa fees
• Travel insurance
• Helmet
• Personal expenses
• Pre and post trip accommodation in Hanoi
• Tips and gratuities

 

The Bicycles:
For this trip we use the ‘Matts Cruise 5.7’ and ‘Kalahari 500’ performance bicycles made by German cycle specialists Merida. The bicycles have 24 speeds and a lightweight steel alloy frame designed for road cycling. Other features include LRS (Low Ratio Suspension) and excellent damping capacity, both of which help to absorb vibration and shocks for a smoother, more comfortable and enjoyable ride. The bicycles are available in a number of sizes.

Hotel Information

4th grade:
Standard guesthouse and home stay