Mai Chau is an idyllic valley in the midst of the majestic mountain ranges in the Northwest region of Vietnam. Though it is not as famous as Sapa, Ha Giang, Ninh Binh, the valley has its own beauty of spectacular landscapes, patchwork of rice fields and minority ethnic cultures. Mai Chau is a place for those who are looking for peace of mind, a scenario without the bustling urban noises.

It is not too far from Hanoi, just about 140km, so a day trip to Mai Chau is doable if you don’t have much time. But it is suggested to spend at least 2 days 1 night here to enjoy the stunning scenery, learn more about local daily life as well as or participate in community activities of local people. You can also combine your Mai Chau journey with nearby attractions including Pu Luong and Ninh Binh.

From Hanoi, there are many ways to reach Mai Chau and it depends on your interest and budget. Let Vietnam Travel provide you some information as below:

1. By motorbike

Thanks to good road conditions, it is quite easy to reach Mai Chau by motorbike though this way is only for experienced drivers. The most popular and fastest route is from Hanoi – Thang Long Highway – Xuan Mai – National Road 6 – Luong Son – Hoa Binh – Muon Khen – Thung Khe Pass – Tong Dau T-Juntion and you will get to the valley after 4 hours driving. It is recommended to stop at the side road market in Thung Khe pass to buy some local specialties and at flag pole which is known as the best viewpoint to see whole Mai Chau valley. The path to Mai Chau is relatively steep but not too difficult and harsh for driving. It is better to drive at steady pace and go with a partner to avoid the tiredness.

2. By bus

Public local buses are available at your choice. You should head to My Dinh, Yen Nghia or Giap Bat station buses to buy ticket to Mai Chau. The price is very cheap, about 80,000 VND/ one way (~ 4 USD). But it may be difficult for the first-time passengers to find the right bus at crowded stations.

For more convenient, you could choose a tourist bus with hotel pick up around Hanoi Old Quarter. The ticket costs a bit higher, from 150,000 – 300,000 VND/ one way (~7-13 USD) but you do not need go to bus stations. Some recommended tourist buses you can consider to choose from are: Mai Chau Shuttle Bus, Mai Chau Express Bus, Sunrise Village Bus, Mai Chau Hoa Binh Bus Company… They will depart between 6:30am – 7:30am.

3. Private car

It is ideal to get to Mai Chau by a private car with driver. You do not need to follow any bus schedule or worry about getting lost by driving a motorbike. The driver will pick you up at your hotel in Hanoi and take you to Mai Chau. The price is a bit higher than that of two above methods but it is a best choice if you are traveling in a group and seeking for the comfort and flexibility during the trip.