Mu Cang Chai, a hidden gem nestled in the mountains of Northwestern Vietnam, has long been a dream destination for nature lovers and adventurous travelers. This place is famous for its terraced rice fields that curve softly, layer upon layer, like steps leading to heaven. If you’re planning to check-in at Mu Cang Chai rice terraces, this article is your comprehensive guide, ensuring you have a fulfilling and memorable trip.
When is the Best Time to Visit Mu Cang Chai?
The ideal time to admire the beauty of Mu Cang Chai’s rice terraces is during the harvest season, approximately from mid-September to mid-October. At this time, the entire region is covered in the golden hue of ripe rice, creating a stunning landscape that captivates every heart. Alternatively, you can visit Mu Cang Chai during the water season (May – June), when the fields are flooded, reflecting the sunlight and creating a shimmering, magical beauty.
Detailed 2-Day 1-Night Mu Cang Chai Itinerary
Here is a suggested 2-day 1-night itinerary to explore Mu Cang Chai, focusing on the experience of checking-in at the rice terraces and discovering local culture:
Day 1: Hanoi – Nghia Lo – Mu Cang Chai
- Morning:
- 05:50 – 06:00: Pick-up by car and tour guide in Hanoi (Opera House or National Convention Center).
- 06:20: Depart for Mu Cang Chai. En route, the car stops at Thanh Son tea hill (Phu Tho) for a rest and photo opportunity.
- 11:00: Arrive in Nghia Lo town, have lunch and enjoy local specialties.
Thanh Son tea hill tourist attraction in Phu Tho, Vietnam
- Afternoon:
- 13:00: Continue the journey to Mu Cang Chai, en route you will admire the vast Muong Lo field.
- 14:00: Conquer Khau Pha Pass, one of the “four great passes” of Vietnam.
- 15:00: Stop at the top of Khau Pha Pass, admire the panoramic view of Khau Pha valley and Lim Thai, Lim Mong villages. If traveling in September, you may witness the “Flying in the Golden Season” paragliding performance.
- 16:30: Arrive in Mu Cang Chai, transfer by motorbike taxi (self-expense) to visit and check-in at Mam Xoi rice terraces (Raspberry Hill), one of the most famous spots in Mu Cang Chai.
- Evening:
- 18:00: Check in to a hotel or homestay in Mu Cang Chai town and rest.
- 19:00: Have dinner and freely explore Mu Cang Chai town at night.
Day 2: Mu Cang Chai – Tu Le – Hanoi
- Morning:
- 06:30: Have breakfast at the hotel or homestay.
- 07:30: Freely explore Mu Cang Chai by motorbike or motorbike taxi: Mu Cang Chai Market, Thai village, bamboo forest, horseshoe-shaped rice terraces, etc.
Tourists taking photos at Mu Cang Chai rice terraces, Vietnam
- Noon:
- 09:00: Car takes you to Ba Nha Bridge area to take photos with shoe-shaped rice terraces.
- 11:00: Stop at Tu Le, visit and buy famous Tu Le young sticky rice flakes (Cốm Tú Lệ).
- Afternoon:
- 12:00: Have lunch in Son Thinh town.
- 13:00: Get on the car back to Hanoi, en route stop to buy Thanh Son sour pork roll specialty in Phu Tho.
- 18:30: Arrive in Hanoi, ending the trip.
Must-Visit Rice Terrace Check-in Spots
Besides Mam Xoi rice terraces, Mu Cang Chai has many other stunning rice terrace check-in locations:
- Mong Ngua Hill (Horseshoe Hill): Located near the town center, Mong Ngua Hill has a unique shape, attracting many visitors for photos.
- Lim Mong Village: A small, beautiful village nestled among terraced fields, where you can learn about the culture and life of the Hmong people.
- La Pan Tan Valley: A valley with vast terraced fields, creating a majestic landscape.
- De Xu Phinh Rice Terraces: Terraced fields with unique shapes, curving like waves.
Essential Mu Cang Chai Travel Tips
- Preparation:
- Clothing: Bring comfortable, easy-to-move clothes, hiking shoes or sports shoes. If traveling in winter, bring warm clothes.
- Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses: To protect your skin from the sun.
- Medication: Bring necessary personal medications.
- Camera, phone: To capture beautiful moments.
- Transportation:
- Coach: Many coach companies operate the Hanoi – Mu Cang Chai route.
- Motorbike: If you enjoy backpacking, you can rent a motorbike in Hanoi or Yen Bai to ride to Mu Cang Chai yourself.
- Accommodation:
- Hotels: There are many hotels in Mu Cang Chai town with different price ranges.
- Homestays: If you want to experience local culture, you can choose to stay in homestays in villages.
- Dining:
- Mu Cang Chai Specialties: Tu Le young sticky rice flakes, ant egg sticky rice, black chicken, grilled stream fish, etc.
Conclusion
Mu Cang Chai is not just a tourist destination, but also a cultural experience, a journey to discover the beauty of Vietnamese nature and people. Plan your trip and check-in at Mu Cang Chai rice terraces today to create unforgettable memories!