Top Things To Do In Mu Cang Chai: Adventures & Culture Await!

11/27/2023
By Elton

Mu Cang Chai Overview

mu-cang-chai

Mu Cang Chai

Nestled in northern Vietnam and carved into the rugged landscapes of Hoang Lien Son, Mu Cang Chai has vibrant fields that create a stunning mosaic. Beyond the terraces, it has serene villages, lush forests, and a welcoming atmosphere.

But is this place worth visiting or not? If yes, when should you go? Let's answer these questions to have the best Mu Cang Chai tour!

Is Mu Cang Chai A Worth-Visit Place?

Yes, Mu Cang Chai is a fantastic place to visit! It's famous for the landscapes and rice fields on the mountains (terraced fields).

The local people, the Thai and Hmong ethnic groups, created these terraced fields and turned them into a symbol of mountainous agriculture in northern Vietnam.

The fields look like giant steps on the mountains, and when the rice grows, they turn into beautiful shades of green. During harvest time, they become golden. Photographers and nature lovers love to visit because it's so picturesque.

Besides the stunning nature, this district has a unique culture. The local Hmong and Thai communities have their own traditions (folk games, folk songs, dances, etc.) and festivals (Rain Praying, Gau Tao, Nao Song, etc.).

There are also other attractions here, like Tu Le, with its beautiful fields, and Khau Pha Pass, where you can see mountain views. If you like trekking, some trails take you to remote villages and beautiful spots.

the-beauty-of-mu-cang-chai

The Beauty Of Mu Cang Chai

When To Visit Mu Cang Chai?

The best month to visit is either from May to June (rice planting season), June to August (green rice season), or September to October (harvesting season).

In May and June, the rice fields are filled with water, making them look like mirrors reflecting the landscape. Farmers at this time are planting rice.

If you love Mu Cang Chai because of its green rice fields, you must come here in June, July, and August when the rice fields are grown. Everywhere you go, you will see deep green terraced fields.

September and October are in the harvest season. The rice fields turn golden as the rice is ready to be collected. It's a perfect time for taking photos and enjoying the natural beauty here.

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  • Tour type:Private Tours
  • Travel Style:Nature & Adventure
  • Activities:Trekking and Hiking, Sightseeing Tours, Local culture tours, Countryside and village visits tours
  • Suitable for:Solo, Family, Group, Couple
  • Age range:1 To 90 Years
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Where Can You Stay Overnight?

a-homestay-in-mu-cang-chai

A homestay in Mu Cang Chai

In Mu Cang Chai, homestays are the best accommodation option if you want a local experience. You can find them in Hmong or Thai ethnic minority villages such as La Pan Tan and Che Cu Nha.

Besides, guesthouses and small hotels with basic amenities are scattered throughout the region. And if you prefer more upscale options, consider boutique resorts and lodges, for example, Mu Cang Chai Ecolodge.

Things To Do In Mu Cang Chai

Visiting Mu Cang Chai means coming to the rustic and wild places. Here, you can participate in many activities to immerse yourself in nature and the lives of ethnic minorities. Here are some typical ones that you must try:

Biking

biking

Biking

Mu Cang Chai offers a biking experience like no other. You'll not be able to resist its wild and rustic beauty when slowly exploring on a bicycle.

Time to bike

The optimal time to join this activity here is either in the dreamy morning, when it's still cool, or the late afternoon, when the sun's intensity is tempered.

  • In the morning

As the morning sun casts its golden glow over the terraced fields, you can traverse the winding paths that connect the countryside.

You’ll hear the echo of laughter mingling with the scent of blooming flowers. The crisp air and the fragrance of the crops create an immersive experience that transcends the ordinary.

  • In late afternoon

As the landscape transitions from the vibrancy of daylight to the mystical allure of dusk, this district reveals its poetic beauty to those on two wheels.

In the late afternoon, the terraced fields, adorned with the hues of the setting sun, seem to cascade like golden waves down the undulating hills. The shadows lengthen, and the contours of the landscape become more pronounced.

On the roadside, the stilt houses cast long shadows, and the aroma of the evening meals being prepared wafts through the air.

in-late-afternoon

In Late Afternoon

Biking routes

One of the most favored biking routes is through Muong Lo, a large valley adorned with fields of corn, rice, and tea, all cradled by big mountains.

When you pass through the valley on your bike, you'll see villages scattered across. They're homes to Muong, Thai, and Dao people, who still reside in stilt houses, till the soil with their hands, and converse in their own languages.

Beyond Muong Lo, the entire region invites you to explore on two wheels. You can navigate through other villages or conquer challenging terrains like mountain passes and steep slopes.

This district presents beauty at every turn. Every corner is a vista, every slope a challenge, and every descent an exhilarating ride.

If you encounter roadside merchandisers during your journey, do not hesitate to support them by buying their products, maybe just local produce or a handmade craft.

You can also occasionally stop at a roadside restaurant to taste local delicacies or say hello to farmers working hard in the fields.

Taste Local Delicacies

local-delicacies

Local Delicacies

Mu Cang Chai not only captivates with its mountainous scenery but also boasts distinctive culinary treasures. They’ll linger in the memory long after they've been tasted.

Tu Le sticky rice and green rice

In the chilly weather of Mu Cang Chai, there's nothing quite like holding a warm handful of this sticky rice treat.

The fragrance is intoxicating, emanating from the meticulously nurtured glutinous rice. The ingredients' simplicity allows the inherent deliciousness of the rice to shine.

Another must-try dish in Tu Le is green rice (com), made from young, milky rice grains harvested in the early, dew-kissed mornings.

The green rice is soaked in milk, resulting in a sweet, fragrant, and refined flavor. It's a souvenir that visitors to this district must bring home.

You can find these delectable dishes in the local markets or various eateries scattered across the area.

sticky-rice

Sticky Rice

Grilled pork

For a taste of the region's traditional and rustic flavors, indulge in grilled pork in restaurants and local eateries here. The meat is seasoned with a blend of spices. The result is a crispy, golden-brown exterior with succulent and flavorful meat.

Chicken with Mac Mat leaves (paired with Cham Cheo)

Grilled chicken, infused with the unique flavor of Mac Mat leaves, is served with a dipping sauce known as Cham Cheo.

The leaves add a sweet and slightly sour taste to the chicken, creating a dish that represents the mountainous flavors of Northwestern Vietnam.

Missing this culinary delight during a visit to this district would be a significant oversight. You can find this dish in various restaurants and eateries across the region.

Mu Cang Chai sausage (Lap Xuong)

lap-xuong

Lap Xuong

Although it is a popular dish in Vietnam, Lap Xuong here has a different flavor. Hung in the chilly mountain air, the sausages absorb the smoky essence from the wood fire.

The addition of ingredients like pork belly, pepper, white wine, and wild honey, all blended with a special recipe, results in a Lap Xuong with a tantalizing taste. Local markets and specialty stores are ideal places to find these savory sausages.

Black chicken

This district takes pride in its indigenous breed of chicken, Black Chicken. Raised freely in a pristine environment, the black chickens produce firm, lean, and uniquely flavorful meat.

These chickens are served in various dishes, including grilled, hotpot, and soup in many local restaurants.

Grilled stream fish

Made from freshwater carp, this grilled fish dish encapsulates the essence of the culinary expertise here. You can find this specialty in the vibrant local markets and fairs.

Marinated in a blend of local ingredients, including Mac Khen, ginger, garlic, and aromatic herbs, the result is a moist, flavorful, and succulent fish.

Trekking Adventure

trekking-adventure

Trekking Adventure

With its high mountains and all kinds of weather, this district is like a playground for trekking enthusiasts.

What sets this district apart is the abundance of non-touristic and hidden trekking paths. They’ve always been a fascinating source for adventure seekers exploring this remote destination.

When to trek?

The best time for trekking in this place is during the rice terraces' growing season (from May to September) and particularly, the harvest season (September).

During the beginning of the growing season (May and June), the terraced fields are a vibrant green as rice cultivation is in full swing. The landscape is alive with the sounds of flowing water, and the terraces glisten under the sunlight.

The pinnacle of trekking excitement occurs during September when the rice harvest is in progress. When trekking in this season, whether on mountain roads or through fields, you will see the golden color of the entire landscape.

the-harvesting-season

The Harvesting Season

Trekking routes

Asia Tour Advisor offers a 3-day trekking tour in this beautiful district with a detailed guided itinerary. But if you want to plan to explore this place yourself, here are two trekking routes that you should consider:

  • To La Pan Tan

One of the most exhilarating routes is from Nga Ba Kim to La Pan Tan (8 km). Trekking into La Pan Tan, the pulse of Hmong culture is palpable.

The vibrant energy of the locals and the simplicity of their lifestyle will make you feel at peace after a long trek. On your journey, you can stop at a roadside homestay for a homemade meal.

When you trek to the summit, you'll see the valley below revealing a patchwork quilt of stepped rice fields.

Then, head down the quiet trails, passing little villages along the way. Descending into the valley, Mam Xoi hills emerge. For any traveler coming to this region, it's a mandatory stop.

la-pan-tan

La Pan Tan

  • To Cu Che Nha

Alternatively, consider a three-hour trek along the mountain and hill slopes of Cu Che Nha and explore the Hmong villages.

Beginning the trek, you navigate challenging terrains that range from steep inclines to more gentle slopes. The trail is sometimes narrow and winding.

The higher you go, the more jaw-dropping the views get. You've got mountains on one side, lush hills on the other, and the promise of adventure in the air.

On your journey, you can pause in Ta Cho and Lang Hang De to say ‘hi’ to Hmong locals. These friendly people will smile and wave back at you to show their hospitality.

Interact With Local Farmers

local-farmers

Local Farmers

On the fields, you'll see the farmers planting, caring for, or harvesting the rice. They're very friendly. So don't hesitate to interact with them.

In the rice planting season

When the rice planting season sweeps over the area, you'll smell the fragrance of freshly tilled soil.

As you pass by the fields, wave and greet the locals with a friend 'xin chao' (hello). They will respond with friendly smiles and looks. You can even ask to get your hands dirty and plant some rice alongside the local farmers.

But before jumping into planting, take some time to observe the process. This way, you're swapping stories, sharing laughs, and making memories.

in-the-rice-planting-season

In The Rice Planting Season

In the harvesting season

When September rolls around, it's harvest time, another golden opportunity (literally). The fields turn this stunning shade of gold, and the farmers are out there, hand-harvesting the rice.

If you want to participate in harvesting, it's polite to ask for permission. Most locals are welcoming and may even be excited to have you join in, but it's respectful to seek approval first.

It's hard work, but there's a celebration vibe in the air. The atmosphere is more jubilant, with laughter echoing across the fields, creating a lively contrast to the planting season's focused endeavors.

If you wish to take photos to capture these moments, always ask for permission first. Some locals may be camera-shy, especially in more remote areas.

Capture Views Of Fields

a-view-of-fields

A View Of Fields

Visiting this district, one of the must-do things is taking pictures of fields to capture the hard work, tradition, and nature's beauty.

Locals call these fields the 'staircase to heaven' because they're like steps carved into the slopes. People made these terraces to deal with the hilly landscape.

Where to take a shot?

No matter which corner of this district you go to, you will have beautiful photos, including Khau Pha Pass, La Pan Tan, Che Cu Nha, Mam Xoi, Tu Le, etc. Trust me! Each village, hill, and valley has a different beauty.

The ideal time for the perfect shot

sunrise-in-mu-cang-chai

Sunrise In Mu Cang Chai

The best times to take photos are at sunrise and sunset when the sun's light gives the fields a warm, magical glow. These are the moments when the contours of the terraces come alive.

Early mornings are special. The sun slowly rises, turning the fields golden. The dew on the rice paddies sparkles. It's a great time to capture calmness, with the terraces looking like a cozy quilt under the changing sky.

As the day goes on, the fields transform. The sunlight paints the landscape in different shades of green, highlighting the details of the rice plants swaying in the breeze.

Sunset is a showstopper. The fields, now in warm sunset hues, bring a sense of tranquility. Light and shadow become more dramatic, casting long silhouettes. This time is when you can seize the soul-stirring beauty of this place.

Regarding weather conditions, I don't think it's a big concern because different weather will produce various soulful photos. Fog and mist can add an ethereal quality to your photos, while clear skies showcase the terraces in all their glory.

Try to capture the terraces from high vantage points, ground level, or even within the fields for diverse compositions. Every angle is a different image of this beautiful place.

What about taking photos of the field with farmers on them? These farmers, with their conical hats and weathered hands, are like the heart and soul of the story.

Don't forget to incorporate elements like trees, flowers, or local houses in the foreground to add depth and context to your images.

Stay In A Homestay

Do you want to experience local life genuinely and excitingly? A homestay is where you can get this experience!

When you arrive at a homestay (usually a stilt house), you'll feel you're part of the family. The local people open their homes with genuine friendliness.

Even though the homestays are simple, they're comfortable. The basic surroundings, thoughtfully arranged interiors, comfy blankets, and the sounds of nature create a peaceful atmosphere.

Local meals in a homestay are something different.

Besides rustic accommodation, food is a big deal in homestays. The hosts will cook local dishes, letting you taste the region's flavors.

Imagine sitting at a table with steaming sticky rice bowls and a chicken hotpot. All are crafted from locally sourced ingredients.

The best part is that you can join in and learn how to cook these delicious meals. You'll learn the art of rolling traditional spring rolls, master the intricacies of seasoning dishes with local herbs and spices, and many other dishes.

In the evenings, you'll sit around a table, share stories, and learn about the lives here. In that cozy atmosphere, there's laughter, traditional music, and sometimes even dancing.

A homestay has many things to explore during the day.

a-family-in-mu-cang-chai

A Family In Mu Cang Chai

In the morning, waking up in a homestay means opening your eyes to incredible views of rice fields. The sounds of nature gently usher in the day. You'll hear a peaceful symphony of birdsong and rustling leaves.

The homestays are typically perfectly placed to give you views of the landscapes, with the colors changing from sunrise to sunset.

Far from the buzz of urban life, the morning tranquility invites you to take a moment and savor the simplicity of rural living.

As you step outside, the fresh mountain air invigorates your senses. The aroma of traditional breakfast being prepared wafts through the air, drawing you to the communal dining area.

The most exciting part is joining in on the daily activities of the host family. You can help in the fields, feed animals, or be part of traditional ceremonies. What's more interesting than you get to live like a local on your trip?

Things To See In Mu Cang Chai

things-to-see-in-mu-cang-chai

Things To See In Mu Cang Chai

Mu Cang Chai has many things worth admiring besides the famous terraced fields. Below are eight places you should visit at least once when you come here!

Tu Le

Tu Le is a valley surrounded by Khau Pha-Song-Than mountains, making it a special place with stunning natural scenery. People often call it the Muse of Yen Bai, and it truly feels like a muse with its beautiful landscapes.

  • How to get there?

It takes about an hour to get to Tu Le from Mu Cang Chai to the east by motorbike. You'll conquer a challenging three-tiered slope, and what you get will make you feel the trip's hardships are worth it.

One of the most amazing things about Tu Le is its rice fields. These fields change from green seedlings in the summer to golden beauty in the autumn.

The fields seem to cascade down the hills, each terrace telling a story of labor, cultivation, and the ebb and flow of seasons.

tu-le

Tu Le

  • Time to visit Tu Le

The best time to visit Tu Le is in the golden season, from mid-September to October. This is when the harvest happens, and the stepped rice fields turn a beautiful golden color.

During the harvest season, Tu Le has cool air. You'll feel the touch of ripe rice on your skin and the sweet smell of mature grains.

Local farmers, often dressed in traditional attire, work tirelessly in the fields, their hands adeptly maneuvering through the golden sea of rice.

The rhythmic sounds of harvesting tools and the occasional laughter of the farmers echo through the air.

Khau Pha Pass

Khau Pha Pass is like a thrilling roller coaster of the Northwest that anyone who's been here wants to conquer at least once.

It's one of the most famous mountain passes in Vietnam. It's a 30-kilometer stretch of road with twists and turns, perched at about 1,200 meters high.

Locals call it the ‘Horns of Heaven’ because the mountains reach like giant horns, often covered in mist and clouds.

khau-pha

Khau Pha

  • What is the best time to visit?

Because it's up high, Khau Pha's weather is cool all year. However, if I have to choose, the most magical time here is around September and October when the rice fields turn green to golden yellow.

Whichever month you go, be ready for the chilly weather, especially at night. And don't even think about crossing this pass in the dark because it's dangerous.

  • The excitement of conquering the pass

To get to the pass, you can go by car or motorbike. If you want to enjoy the views more, pick a motorbike. Only about 30 km from Mu Cang Chai, it only takes about an hour to get here.

Riding through this pass with clouds around and seeing the massive mountains and landscapes is like a dream. I recommend taking it slow and enjoying the journey. The views will make you appreciate the grandness of the Northwest.

Once at the top of the pass, you're treated to a stunning natural show, the mountains are reaching for the sky. Especially during sunset, it feels like you're in a heavenly paradise.

And don't forget to stop at local eateries on or near the pass. Try Yen Bai apples, sticky rice, and grilled wild pork; they're local delights you can't miss!

view-from-khau-pha

View From Khau Pha

La Pan Tan (Mam Xoi)

La Pan Tan, about 10 km from Mu Cang Chai, is a place that boasts the most terraced fields in this region. It covers over 700 hectares of layered terraced fields across the hillsides.

This place is renowned for its circular and winding roads, resembling trays of sticky rice (‘mam xoi’ in Vietnamese) when viewed from afar, earning it the nickname Mam Xoi.

  • Prepare for a riding adventure!

The road to the La Pan Tan is relatively challenging, with steep sections, slippery surfaces (during the rainy season), and unexpected twists and turns. So, you need a steady hand and keen observation skills.

On your way, lush greenery surrounds you, and you'll pass through quaint villages where locals are going about their daily lives.

mam-xoi

Mam Xoi

  • The ideal time to visit

La Pan Tan is always beautiful, no matter when you visit throughout the year. Yet, like other areas in Mu Cang Chai, it's best to come between September and October if you want to witness that vibrant scenery of ripe rice fields.

If you wish to see this place adorned with the fresh green of newly planted rice, plan your visit around April. Besides, the water season here typically occurs from May to June with flooded fields.

During the day, the best time to see these fields is early morning. If you arrive when the morning mist lingers gently, you'll witness the enchanting image of the fields gradually emerging from the fog.

While enjoying the serene scenery of the highlands of Yen Bai in the early hours, you'll hear the melodious chirping of birds calling the flocks.

In the distance, there is the rustling sound of the rice plants swaying in the breeze. Breathing in the fresh air, this experience becomes an unforgettable memory for anyone.

Thai Village

thai-village

Thai Village

If you come to Mu Cang Chai, you must visit Thai Village. Why? Because it is located right in the town area. The road leading to this village is more inviting than other villages in the area, making it accessible by both motorbike and car.

  • The beauty of the fields

As you're strolling along these winding paths, you'll see rice terraces that roll down the hills in a way that makes you stop and go, 'Wow!'

If you visit here in the planting season, you can admire a muddy brown canvas as farmers carefully stick those tiny rice seedlings into the ground.

You'll notice the water channels called 'muong' zigzagging through the fields, ensuring each terrace gets its share of water. It's a natural irrigation system that's been here for ages.

During harvest season, like other areas in this district, you will see the hills turn a yellow color. This is the perfect time to take photos and make your Instagram followers jealous.

the-beauty-of-thai-village

The Beauty Of Thai Village

  • The beauty of culture

Beyond its natural charm and serene ambiance, Thai Village continues to captivate visitors with its vast expanse of traditional stilt houses.

When you step foot into the village, you'll have the chance to fully immerse yourself in the simple and peaceful life of the highland residents.

I recommend spending a night in one of the charming three-bay, two-chamber stilt houses to experience the essence of traditional living.

Moreover, you'll savor the rich flavors of local specialties, such as Yen Bai's signature dish: buffalo meat cooked on the kitchen's shelf.

You'll also have the opportunity to participate in communal activities, perhaps joining a bonfire session that adds excitement to the nights.

Lim Mong

lim-mong

Lim Mong

Located at the furthest reaches of Yen Bai (about 30 km from Mu Cang Chai), nature has gifted Lim Mong with enchanting landscapes. You’ll admire endless terraced rice fields and traditional houses peeking through the ethereal mist.

  • The journey to Lim Mong

Situated in the land of clouds and mist, it's no exaggeration to say that Lim Mong is one of the most adventurous destinations for thrill-seeking souls.

First, you'll pass Khau Pha at a height of 1200m. Then, you'll ride through perilous roads and challenging terrain.

Even before reaching Lim Mong, from the top of Khau Pha, you can admire the natural splendor of this village. You can capture the beauty of Yen Bai's mountains and forests within your view.

However, avoid navigating the past at night due to the dark, desolate, and perilous conditions, especially for those unfamiliar with the roads of this village.

in-lim-mong

In Lim Mong

  • The beauty of Lim Mong

After conquering Khau Pha, Lim Mong reveals itself gradually. Immediately, you feel the crisp air, carrying with it the fragrance of nature and the subtle hints of traditional village life.

The first thing that catches your eye will be the endless fields. In the distance, you will see the stilt houses of the Hmong people.

These houses, with their thatched roofs and wooden structures, seamlessly blend with the natural surroundings.

The atmosphere in Lim Mong is serene and untouched by the hustle and bustle of urban life. You step into a world where nature takes the lead in the orchestra of sounds: leaves rustling, streams murmuring, and birds casually chatting.

Forget about the blaring horns and constant hum of the city; here, you can enjoy a countryside symphony that's both soothing and refreshing.

During the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, the peaceful ambiance intensifies. The play of light on the terraced fields and the surrounding hills transforms the village into a canvas painted with orange, pink, and gold.

Lao Chai

lao-chai

Lao Chai

Lao Chai is just about 15 km from Mu Cang Chai and has beautiful scenery. So, you should definitely plan to come here in your Mu Cang Chai itinerary!

  • It's an adventure to get to Lao Chai

Honestly, the road leading to Lao Chai is not for the faint-hearted. It's a winding, undulating path filled with steep slopes and rugged terrain. So, to conquer the route, you need courage, determination, and a skilled local motorbike driver.

I find the journey to this place takes more time compared to the fields in La Pan Tan, but the experience is immeasurably more valuable.

For those unfamiliar with the route, I recommend hiring a local motorbike taxi from Mu Cang Chai. It's a pocket-friendly option.

in-lao-chai

In Lao Chai

  • Lao Chai has picturesque scenes

The village is a masterpiece, surrounded by endless terraced mountains, golden rice fields, and the intoxicating scents of earth and forest.

Throughout Lao Chai, as you ascend higher and farther, the terraced fields become more extensive, creating a deserted, otherworldly landscape. Standing in Lao Chai, you'll feel like a tiny dot on an infinite canvas.

After capturing enough images to cherish for years, you can lower yourself to the small huts on the terraced fields.

There, you can admire the majestic view of the mountains, the sun pouring its golden rays onto the rice, and the distant clearwater dam. It feels like being in the middle of a painting, making you want to forget the way back.

I'm sure that once you've been to Lao Chai, you feel like you've seen enough to satisfy your longing for ripe golden rice fields.

Mo Waterfall

mo-waterfall

Mo Waterfall

When talking about Mu Cang Chai, everyone must praise the beauty of the fields on the mountains and hills. But few people know this place also has a beautiful and wild waterfall named Mo ('Dream' in English).

Mo is a hidden waterfall tucked between Na Hang peaks. It takes about 30 minutes of walking from No.32 Highway to reach it. On the journey, you'll encounter small rock shelters that offer refuge from sudden high-altitude rains.

When you arrive, you'll see the waterfall with its clear cascading water, with white foam against the backdrop of the blue sky and lush greenery.

The falls are surrounded by blooming apricots and plum flowers, adding pink and white hues with the vibrant red of wild banana flowers.

Don't just stop at the base area! You can move to the higher tiers of the waterfall, where the water flows in a mesmerizing spiral pattern.

  • The first tier stretches over 30 meters, with water cascading down like strings of diamonds.

  • The second tier is a frothy pond, a great spot to immerse yourself in the cascading waters.

  • The third tier narrows into a funnel shape.

  • The fourth tier descends gracefully from a height of 5 meters.

Before reaching the remarkable fourth tier, you can take a moment to rest on large, flat rock formations that resemble expansive mats. Nature seems to have provided a resting place for you to enjoy a light meal during their expedition.

Standing at the fourth-tier spot feels like being in gentle spring rain. You’ll see water droplets disperse refreshingly due to the impact of the waterfall against the rocks.

It's a marvelous sensation, dissipating any weariness from the journey with the crisp, pure air, fragrant with the wildflowers' scent.

Thac Ba Lake

Thac Ba is one of Vietnam's largest artificial lakes, formed during the creation of the hydroelectric plant in this place.

This lake stretches across Luc Yen and Yen Binh, covering about 20,000 hectares with over 1,300 islands and beautiful caves hidden in limestone mountains.

This lake is between Mu Cang Chai and Hanoi. So, you can stop by here on your arrival or return trip during your journey.

When you arrive, taking a boat trip around the lake is the best way to enjoy its breathtaking scenery and observe wildlife.

On a boat, you can explore the islands within the lake. You can practically hear the gentle splash of water against the boat, creating this zen-like soundtrack.

The islands here are not mere land masses but are often home to diverse flora and fauna. You can go to the island to explore. And if you are lucky, you will take pictures of animals here.

Besides fishing and rowing boats, you can explore local villages to learn about their traditions, festivals, and lifestyles.

This area is home to various ethnic groups like Nung, Tay, Dao, Hmong, Cao Lan, and Phu La, living in the mountains or by the lake.

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  • Depart Time:Daily
  • Starts/Ends:Hanoi/Hanoi
  • Tour type:Private Tours
  • Travel Style:Nature & Adventure
  • Activities:Walking tours, Local culture tours, Countryside and village visits tours
  • Suitable for:Solo, Family, Group, Couple
  • Age range:1 To 90 Years
  • Operated in:English, French, Spanish, German, Italian
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Final Thoughts

After exploring things to do in Mu Cang Chai, it's clear that this place allows you to mix adventure and culture in the most epic way.

From things to see in Mu Cang Chai, like jaw-dropping terraced fields, to diving into local traditions, it's a wild ride.

Are you looking for a tour to enjoy a more complete trip with expert guidance? Asia Tour Advisor is your destination! Our tours promise an immersive experience, blending adventure and local charm. Don't just dream! Make it real!

Book your adventure now and let Asia Tour Advisor be your guide to this beautiful place!

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South Vietnam Itinerary- A treat to an impeccable beauty

Explore the Southern part of Vietnam as you treat yourself to the best parts only. Get to experience...

North Vietnam Itinerary - A comprehensive Guide to explore the North
12/04/2024
By Elton

North Vietnam Itinerary - A comprehensive Guide to explore the North

Northern Vietnam is a region of aesthetic sceneries and landscapes with practically fascinating cultures...

Fansipan Mountain - A solemn structure of Vietnam’s pinnacle
01/04/2024
By Elton

Fansipan Mountain - A solemn structure of Vietnam’s pinnacle

Explore an exciting journey with either a cable car or by hiking as you rise about 3,143 meters above...

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