How to get to Mai Chau from Hanoi
Hanoi to Mai Chau is one of the most scenic routes in northern Vietnam, taking you from the vibrant capital to a peaceful valley surrounded by green mountains and rice fields.
Whether you’re looking for a quiet weekend escape or a short adventure into the authentic Vietnamese countryside, Mai Chau is a destination you shouldn’t miss.
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Why Visit Mai Chau?
Mai Chau, located in Hoa Binh Province, is famous for its ethnic minority villages, picturesque terraced fields, and relaxed rural atmosphere.
The valley is home to the White Thai people, whose stilt houses, handmade textiles, and warm hospitality attract travelers year-round.
Autumn and spring are the best times to visit - the weather is mild, the rice fields glow golden, and art students often come here for inspiration, filling the valley with colors and creativity.
If you love trekking, cycling, or simply enjoying nature, Mai Chau is an ideal spot for a short trip from Hanoi or as part of a larger loop to Pu Luong and Ninh Binh.
Recommended Hanoi - Mai Chau - Pu Luong Itinerary
- Day 1: Depart Hanoi - Stop at Thung Khe Pass - Arrive in Mai Chau - Explore Lac & Pom Coong villages.
- Day 2: Trek or cycle through rice fields - Visit local markets - Try traditional Thai food.
- Day 3: Transfer to Pu Luong Nature Reserve for jungle trekking or waterwheel village visits.
How to get to Mai Chau from Hanoi
Mai Chau is about 145 km southwest of Hanoi, and the journey usually takes 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on your mode of transport and traffic.
The main travel options are by bus, limousine van, motorbike, or private car.
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1. Hanoi to Mai Chau by Bus - Timetable & Operators
Taking a bus is the most affordable and common way to reach Mai Chau. You can catch direct buses from My Dinh or Yen Nghia bus stations in Hanoi.
Bus Timetable & Operators
| Operator | Route | Departure |
| Ha Loan Bus | My Dinh – Mai Chau | 07:50 & 14:00 |
| Cuong Coi Bus | My Dinh – Mai Chau | 06:30 |
| K Linh Bus | My Dinh – Mai Chau | 13:30 |
| Tuan Dung Bus | My Dinh – Mai Chau | 14:00 |
| Hoang Thao Bus | My Dinh – Mai Chau | 14:30 |
Travel time is 4 hours, ticket price is from 80,000 to 100,000 VND.
Tip: If you’re staying near the western part of Hanoi, Yen Nghia Bus Station might be more convenient — it’s closer to the highway and can shorten your travel time by about 30 minutes.
If you miss a direct bus, you can take any bus to Hoa Binh City, available every 15 minutes (from 50,000 VND), then transfer to a local minibus to Mai Chau (additional 100,000 VND).
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2. Hanoi to Mai Chau by Limousine Van
For more comfort, consider a limousine bus service such as Cat Ba Express, Sapa Express, or other luxury operators.
These vans offer reclining seats, Wi-Fi, and air-conditioning — ideal for travelers who want a smooth, stress-free trip.
Tickets usually range from 250,000 to 350,000 VND per person and include door-to-door pickup in Hanoi Old Quarter.
Book online in advance - especially on weekends - to secure your seat.
3. Hanoi to Mai Chau by Motorbike
If you enjoy adventure and scenic drives, the Hanoi to Mai Chau motorbike route is unforgettable. You’ll ride through charming villages, winding mountain passes, and endless rice paddies.
The direct route is 139 km via QL6 Highway, but expect about 5 hours of travel with stops. The last 15 km before reaching Mai Chau offers breathtaking views of the valley - perfect for photos!
Note: Be cautious - traffic on QL6 can be heavy and dusty. Start early and avoid nighttime riding.
4. Private Car or Tour Transfer
Hiring a private car with driver is the most comfortable and flexible option. It takes about 3.5 hours, allowing you to stop along the way for coffee breaks or photo spots like Thung Khe Pass (also known as “White Rock Pass”) - one of the most beautiful viewpoints in northern Vietnam.
Private transfers cost around 1,800,000 - 2,500,000 VND per car (4 - 7 seats) depending on the season and itinerary.
Getting Around Mai Chau
Mai Chau town is small and easy to explore on foot. Many homestays offer bicycle rentals for about 20,000 VND/hour or 100,000 VND/day - great for visiting nearby villages like Lac, Pom Coong, and Na Phon.
If you need to go further, motorbike taxis and local taxis are available: Mai Chau Taxi: (0218) 386 8788
FAQs about Traveling from Hanoi to Mai Chau
1. How long does it take to get from Hanoi to Mai Chau?
The journey from Hanoi to Mai Chau typically takes around 3.5 to 4 hours by bus or limousine van, depending on traffic conditions and the chosen route.
If you’re departing from Yen Nghia Bus Station, the trip may be slightly shorter since it’s located closer to the western outskirts of Hanoi.
Travelers who prefer a slower pace can make several scenic stops along the way - especially at Thung Khe Pass, a breathtaking viewpoint overlooking the mountains and valleys.
2. How far is Mai Chau from Hanoi?
Mai Chau Valley lies approximately 145 kilometers southwest of Hanoi, in Hoa Binh Province. The drive takes you through winding mountain roads, lush greenery, and small local villages.
Despite the relatively short distance, the mountainous terrain makes the trip feel like a true countryside adventure rather than a simple transfer.
3. How much does a bus ticket cost?
A standard bus ticket from Hanoi to Mai Chau costs between 80,000 and 150,000 VND (about $3–6 USD), depending on the company and bus type.
If you choose a limousine van - which offers reclining seats, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi - expect to pay between 250,000 and 350,000 VND ($10–14 USD).
These services usually include hotel pickup in Hanoi’s Old Quarter and drop-off near your accommodation in Mai Chau, making them the most convenient option for travelers seeking comfort.
4. What is the best time to visit Mai Chau?
The best time to travel from Hanoi to Mai Chau is during spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November).
During these months, the weather is cool and pleasant, perfect for cycling or trekking through the rice fields.
In late May and early June, the valley turns golden as farmers begin harvesting rice - a fantastic time for photography.
Winter (December–February) can be chilly, especially at night, but the mist-covered hills create a very romantic, peaceful vibe.
5. Can I book a bus from Hanoi to Mai Chau online?
Yes, you can easily book your Hanoi to Mai Chau bus online through trusted platforms like 12Go Asia, Baolau, or directly via operators such as Cat Ba Express, which offers reliable and comfortable limousine buses.
Online booking allows you to compare schedules, prices, and seat types in advance - ideal for weekend trips when buses can fill up quickly.
Most online tickets include e-vouchers, so you only need to show your phone when boarding.
6. Is it safe to ride a motorbike from Hanoi to Mai Chau?
Yes, it’s generally safe to ride a motorbike from Hanoi to Mai Chau if you have some experience with long-distance or mountain riding.
The road condition is good, but parts of Highway QL6 are winding with steep curves, especially near Thung Khe Pass.
Always wear a helmet, drive during daylight hours, and avoid the route in fog or heavy rain.
The reward, however, is an incredibly scenic journey through local villages, limestone cliffs, and vast rice fields.
7. Are there direct buses from Noi Bai Airport to Mai Chau?
Currently, there are no direct buses from Noi Bai International Airport to Mai Chau. Travelers arriving at the airport should first transfer to My Dinh Bus Station or Yen Nghia Bus Station in Hanoi, where buses to Mai Chau depart several times a day.
The airport taxi or shuttle ride to the station takes around 45–60 minutes. If you prefer a smoother experience, you can book a private transfer directly from the airport to your accommodation in Mai Chau.
8. Where do buses from Hanoi arrive in Mai Chau?
Most Hanoi to Mai Chau buses stop at or near Tong Dau Junction, which is about 5 km from Mai Chau town center.
From there, you can easily catch a motorbike taxi (xe ôm) or local taxi to reach your homestay in Lac Village, Pom Coong Village, or Mai Chau Ecolodge area.
Some limousine vans and private transfers will drop you directly at your accommodation, so it’s best to confirm this when booking your ticket.
9. Can I continue traveling from Mai Chau to Pu Luong or Ninh Binh?
Absolutely! Many travelers include Pu Luong or Ninh Binh as part of their Mai Chau travel itinerary.
You can take a local bus or arrange a private transfer from Mai Chau to Pu Luong Nature Reserve (about 2 hours) or continue onward to Ninh Binh (around 4–5 hours).
Both destinations offer stunning nature and authentic local culture - perfect for those wanting to explore northern Vietnam beyond Hanoi.
10. Are there guided tours to Mai Chau from Hanoi?
Yes, several companies offer guided day trips and 2-day tours from Hanoi to Mai Chau.
These tours usually include round-trip transportation, meals, a visit to local ethnic villages, cycling through the rice fields, and an overnight stay in a traditional stilt house.
For travelers short on time, joining a tour can be a great way to experience Mai Chau’s highlights without worrying about logistics.
You can check reputable operators like Cat Ba Express, Asia Charm Tours, or Viet Vision Travel.
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