2 days Black River & Pu Luong Nature Reserve

Hanoi, Black River, Lu Luong, Hanoi

Nestled in a picturesque valley southwest of Hanoi, Mai Chau and Pu Luong are inhabited by the White Thai, Black Thai, Muong, Green Homg and Dao ethnic minority groups. Renowned for their warm hospitality and strong cultural identity, these communities have maintained their traditions despite outside influences. Their rich and varied cultures offer a unique and vibrant experience distinct from other regions. The Black River, rolling hills adorned with intricately carved rice terraces create an enchanting setting, perfect for exploration.

Day 1 Hanoi - Black River - Pu Luong Nature Reserve

We depart from Hanoi and travel 150 km to the Mai Chau district in Hoa Binh province. Upon arrival in Mai Chau, we explore a well-maintained trail that branches off the main path and winds through several small Muong villages. This is followed by a delightful boat ride along the Black River, a perfect opportunity to appreciate the river's beauty. After the boat ride, we journey to Pu Luong Nature Reserve, where we will spend the night with a local Black Thai family. (Lunch and dinner are included)

Day 2 Pu Luong Nature Reserve - Hanoi

The day begins with a morning hike along a footpath used by the local people, amidst splendid rice terraces, verdant hills, through tiny villages and along towering mountains. Along the way, we meet the local people at work as they plough their paddy fields behind water buffaloes, tend to their seasonal crops, or fish in the river.

After enjoying a bamboo boat raft along the Ma River, which is a significant waterway in Vietnam flowing through provinces like Thanh Hoa, Nghe An, and Son La, known for its scenic beauty, we board our vehicle and journey back to Hanoi, arriving around 6 pm. (Breakfast and lunch are included)
 

The facts…

Physical activities: Easy hiking and kayaking with: 
 

• A 4-6 km hike and a 1-2 hour boat ride on Day 1.
• A 6-8 km hike and a 1-hour bamboo raft ride on Day 2.

From July to September, the climate is usually humid and hot. From October to June brings cooler and more pleasant weather.

Transport: 
 

• Air-conditioned vehicle (Car or Bus)
• Boat
• Bamboo raft

Tour Guide: Our experienced and friendly tour guide speaks good English. He is knowledgeable about local cultures, history and the environment.

Meals:
 

• 1 breakfast
• 2 lunches
• 1 dinner

We choose local ingredients, typical of the way people eat in the area, at local restaurants, markets or homes. We also cater for Vegetarians but please request this at time of booking. 

Accommodation: 
 

• Local family homestay (1 night)

Trip cost: 
 

• $159USD per person for a group of 2 to 8 people
• $125USD per person for a group of 9 to 10 people

The cost of the trip includes: 
 

• Accommodation
• Transportation (Car or Bus)
• Meals listed on the itinerary
   
• Purified drinking water
• Tour guide
• Entrance fees
• VAT and other taxes
   

The cost of the trip does not include: 
 

• Travel insurance
• Drinks (soft drinks, alcohol)
• Tips and gratuities
• Personal expenses

What to Bring:

Pack essentials, including light comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activities, comfortable hiking shoes, small daypack for hiking. We also recommend packing: insect repellent, sun cream, sun hat and raincoat....

Have a great journey!!!