Full-Day Cycling & Handcraft Workshop in Mai Chau Valley

Hanoi , Vietnam

Full-Day Cycling & Handcraft Workshop in Mai Chau Valley

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(7 reviews)

12h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

An ideal escape of 1 day from Hanoi for nature lovers.
Plenty of activities for you to discover greedy landscape and colorful ethnic culture of Mai Chau valley: cycling, handicraft workshop
Operated with friendship, warmth and hospitality of Thai local host family.
Do not miss the opportunity that we offer you to make this reservation and take some memories that will remain in your memory as the best vacations.
You will only have to relax and enjoy, we assure you comfort

Available options

Full-Day Cycling & Handcraft Workshop in Mai Chau Valley

What's included

Snacks

Lunch

Landing and facility fees

Air-conditioned vehicle

Use of bicycle

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Mai Chau offers a most splendid vista of the valley surrounded by the lush green forests, fields and stilt houses of the White Thai ethnic group. This is a quiet piece of countryside to stroll and cycle through and to be wrapped in the warm and nice hospitality of the Thai people.

7:30. Departing from the DCT Responsible Travel office (17 Cau Go), we'll leave the city behind and pass through a craggy, mountainous landscape to Mai Chau valley. The road climbs to almost 800 meters before dropping steeply down into the valley passing through picturesque rocky outcrops and with views of rice fields hidden in the deep valleys below. We arrive at Mai Chau around 10:30, where we will be welcomed by our hosts and enter a world of new customs and traditions.

Stop 2

11:00. Following a tour briefing we will cycle to Na Phon village through the rice fields, along narrow lanes until we reach a weaving workshop. We will learn there the White Thai traditional weaving, dyeing, embroidery techniques and experience a hands-on natural dyeing workshop hosted by a Thai lady. The products that you make are yours to take with you along with fond memories of time spent with beautiful people. Snacks will be served during the workshop.

*Hoa Ban Social Protecting Center was created in 2008 with the purpose of supporting disadvantaged and disabled women while maintaining the traditional handicraft customs of the White Thai ethnic group in Mai Chau, Vietnam. This center is a part of the "Keep It Beautiful Vietnam" project, which aims to empower the women & girls in minority weaving villages in Vietnam. This is also a platform to promote sustainable textile fabrics and products with high quality, environmental and social values.

1:30. Returning to our Homestay we will enjoy a lunch of Mai Chau specialties delicately prepared by your host family.

In the afternoon, we’ll hop on bicycles and start cycling. Depending on the weather and your wishes, our local guide will suggest suitable cycling routes. There are many beautiful cycling trails in Mai Chau valley which take you through quaint villages, rice and cropping fields. Along the way, you can stop at any time to catch beautiful moments of nature or talk to a friendly villager.

4:00. We’ll go back to our homestay and have tea before saying goodbye to your host, then head back to Hanoi and arrive at around 7:30. End of the trip.

What's not included

Gratuities

Beverages, guide gratuities and personal expenses

Personal insurance

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Go to the corner between Cau Go street and Ho Hoan Kiem street in Hanoi Old Quarter

About Hanoi

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a vibrant city steeped in history and culture. Known for its French colonial architecture, bustling Old Quarter, and rich culinary scene, Hanoi offers a unique blend of traditional and modern experiences.

Top Attractions

Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake is a serene oasis in the heart of Hanoi, surrounded by lush greenery and historical landmarks. The lake is a popular spot for locals and tourists to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Hanoi Old Quarter

The Old Quarter is the historic and cultural heart of Hanoi, featuring narrow streets lined with traditional shops, temples, and colonial-era architecture. It's a vibrant area with a rich history and bustling atmosphere.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore, shopping and dining vary

Temple of Literature

The Temple of Literature is a historic Confucian temple dedicated to education and literature. It's a serene and culturally significant site, featuring beautiful architecture and a peaceful garden.

Historical 1-2 hours 30,000 VND

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a significant historical site where the embalmed body of Vietnam's revolutionary leader, Ho Chi Minh, is displayed. The mausoleum is a place of pilgrimage and a symbol of Vietnam's history.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Hanoi Opera House

The Hanoi Opera House is a stunning example of French colonial architecture, featuring elegant design and a rich history. It's a popular venue for cultural performances and events.

Architecture 1-2 hours for a performance Varies by event

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pho

A traditional Vietnamese noodle soup with a flavorful broth, rice noodles, and thinly sliced meat, typically beef or chicken.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Bun Cha

Grilled pork patties served with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a dipping sauce.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat

Banh Mi

A Vietnamese sandwich with a crispy baguette, filled with various ingredients such as grilled meat, pâté, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs.

Snack/Lunch Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Egg Coffee

A unique Vietnamese coffee made with strong drip coffee, condensed milk, and a frothy egg yolk mixture.

Drink Contains eggs and dairy

Popular Activities

Kayaking in Ha Long Bay Trekking in Sapa Boat ride in Hoan Kiem Lake Coffee at a local café Exploring the Temple of Literature Visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Swimming and snorkeling in Ha Long Bay Egg coffee tasting

Best Time to Visit

October to December

This period offers pleasant weather with lower humidity and temperatures, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is less crowded compared to the peak tourist season.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Vietnamese
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other areas

Currency

Vietnamese Dong (VND)

Time Zone

GMT+7

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Hanoi is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, petty crime and scams can occur, and travelers should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transportation.
• Use reputable taxi companies and insist on using the meter or agree on a price before starting your journey.
• Be wary of strangers offering help or services, as they may be trying to scam you.

Getting there

By air

Noi Bai International Airport • 28 km from city center

By train

Hanoi Railway Station

By bus

Giap Bat Bus Station, My Dinh Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system in Hanoi is affordable and covers most of the city. However, it can be crowded and confusing for first-time visitors.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab, Gojek

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Quarter French Quarter Ba Dinh District Tay Ho District

Day trips

Ha Long Bay

165 km from Hanoi • Full day to overnight

Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning limestone karsts and islets, emerald waters, and scenic beauty. It's a popular destination for cruises, kayaking, and exploring caves.

Ninh Binh

90 km from Hanoi • Full day

Ninh Binh is known as 'Halong Bay on land' due to its stunning limestone karsts, rice paddies, and historic sites. It's a popular destination for cycling, boat rides, and exploring ancient temples.

Sapa

320 km from Hanoi • Overnight to multi-day

Sapa is a mountainous region known for its stunning rice terraces, ethnic minority villages, and trekking opportunities. It's a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and cultural experiences.

Festivals

Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year) • January or February (based on the lunar calendar) Mid-Autumn Festival • September or October (based on the lunar calendar) Hanoi International Film Festival • October or November (annual)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
Explore the city's hidden gems and lesser-known attractions, such as the Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural and the Temple of Literature.
Try local street food and visit markets for an authentic and delicious culinary experience.
Use a navigation app, such as Google Maps or GrabMaps, to help you get around the city and avoid getting lost.
Be cautious of your belongings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transportation, to avoid petty crime and scams.