Majestic Mu Cang Chai: Mam Xoi Hill & Dinosaur Spine Trek

Difficulty

Moderate

Comfort

Basic+

Weight limit

Group size

1-12 tourists,
over 5 y.o.

Step into a world where nature’s artistry meets vibrant culture on the Majestic Mu Cang Chai: Mam Xoi Hill & Dinosaur Spine Trek. This 2-day journey invites you to explore some of the most breathtaking terraced fields in Vietnam, framed by rugged mountains and dotted with authentic Hmong villages. Whether you’re a passionate trekker or a curious traveler, this immersive experience promises stunning views and heartfelt encounters.

You’ll begin your adventure trekking through a Thai village and winding along a quiet, steep trail to the colorful Hmong settlement of Hang Dang De. Surrounded by waterfalls and sweeping terraced landscapes, pause for a picnic amid pristine nature before reaching the iconic Dinosaur Spine—a viewpoint offering panoramic vistas over five charming villages.
Your second day leads you through lush terraced fields toward La Pan Tan Village, where the beauty of rural life unfolds at every turn. Share a unique lunch inside a farmer’s hut and absorb the serene atmosphere before trekking to Che Cu Nha Village, rich with fascinating stories from your guide. Join us on this captivating trek and discover the heart of Vietnam’s highlands!

Only 1 Pax — $95
Only 2 Pax — $80
Only 3 Pax — $75
Only 4 Pax — $72
Only 5 Pax — $70
Only 6–10 Pax — $68

Private Tour Option: Pricing is flexible and adapts to your group size; if no extra participants join, you pay based on the exact number in your group.

Hiking and Trekking

A Ky T. is the provider and guide of this trip

The provider speaks: English, Vietnamese

Hello! My name is Ky, and I’m a local trekking guide based in Mu Cang Chai - breathtaking corner of northern Vietnam. I specialize in organizing immersive walking tours through the stunning terraced rice fields that have made Mu Cang Chai famous around the world. These landscapes are not just beautiful—they tell stories of generations of Hmong and Thai people who have shaped them with patience, resilience, and a deep connection to nature. On my tours, you’ll do more than just walk: you’ll experience. You’ll meet local families, share ours historical, and witness traditional life in the mountains as it has been for centuries. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or simply someone who loves nature and culture, I’ll tailor each journey to your pace and interests. My goal is not only to guide you through the trails but also to help you feel the soul of this land. I’m excited to welcome you and walk alongside you as you discover the magic of Mu Cang Chai—its landscapes, its people, real experiences and its unforgettable spirit. Welcome to Mu Cang Chai.

Tour highlights

Stunning panoramic views at the iconic Dinosaur Spine

Enjoy sweeping vistas of five Hmong villages and endless terraced rice fields from one of Mu Cang Chai’s most iconic ridgelines

Genuine cultural connections with local communities

Trek through Thai and Hmong villages, observe daily life, and stay overnight in a traditional homestay near the famous Mam Xoi Hill

Deep immersion in pristine, untouched nature

Cross serene streams, walk mountain trails, and enjoy a rustic picnic in a farmer’s hut surrounded by stunning landscapes

Route details

Morning:

Depart from our office or your hotel;
Begin trekking 1 km to a Thai village and follow a small, steep trail;
After 2 km, arrive at Hang Dang De Village, a Hmong settlement;
Observe daily life, agriculture, and the colorful attire of Hmong women.

Midday:

Continue on a deserted road surrounded by high mountains, waterfalls, and terraced fields;
Stop for a picnic lunch along the trail.

Afternoon:

Reach Dinosaur’s Spine, the trek’s highlight, with panoramic views of five villages: Kim Noi, Mo De, Che Cu Nha, La Pan Tan, and De Xu Phinh;
Spend 20–30 minutes enjoying the scenery and taking photos.

Evening:

Cross a wooden bridge over Nam Kim Stream and trek 2 km uphill to a homestay near Mam Xoi Hill, the most photographed terraced field in Vietnam;
Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at the homestay.

Difficulty

Moderate

Does not require physical training but involves moderate physical activity

Tour provider's comments

- Only accept tourists without heart, respiratory or limb disabilities.
- Follow the instructions of the tour guide.
- We encourage tourists to purchase their own travel insurance.

Tickets to group meeting place

Group meeting place

Trekking Tour Mu Cang Chai & Motorbikes for rent, Mu Cang Chai, Mù Cang Chải, Mù Cang Chải District, Yên Bái, Vietnam

Calculate tour price with tickets from your city

Partnered with

Weather during the tour

Weather conditions along the route

You will get a weather forecast for this tour’s route based on

the forecasts for this season
the statistics from previous years’ trips

Tour conditions

Included

2 large bottles of water (1 per day);
Meals:
- Day 1: Lunch and dinner.
- Day 2: Breakfast and lunch.
1 night at a homestay.
Professional guide.
Entrance tickets.
Car or motorbike transfer back to the office or hotel.

Group size

1-12 tourists, over 5 y.o.

Duration

2 days

1 night

It's important to know

raincoat;
mosquito cream;
sunscreen;
hat;
comfortable trekking shoes.

August to mid-October
The ideal time to visit Mu Cang Chai is during the rice harvest season, which typically occurs from August to mid-October. At this time, the terraced fields are at their most beautiful, turning a radiant golden hue and creating a stunning, picturesque landscape. This season is perfect for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers who want to capture the majestic beauty of the rice terraces against the backdrop of the Hoang Lien Son mountain range. It is also the best time for exploring and experiencing Mu Cang Chai, whether through trekking or traveling by car or motorbike.

May to June
Another wonderful time to visit is during the planting season, from May to June, when the terraced fields are filled with water. The water reflects the sky, creating a mesmerizing mirror effect and giving the fields a surreal and unique beauty. This period is ideal for those who want to witness the farmers working on the fields with their buffaloes, planting rice, and experiencing the authentic and fascinating traditional agricultural practices and daily life of the locals.

July to August
From July to August, though it is the rainy season, the rainfall does not significantly hinder your trip. This is the time to admire the vibrant green waves of rice paddies stretching up to the mountain peaks. If you prefer to see lush green fields, this is the best period. Be sure to bring waterproof shoes and a raincoat if you plan to visit during July or August.

Other seasons
The remaining months are considered the dry season in Mu Cang Chai, with weather ranging from cool to chilly, especially at night during December, January, and February. Warm clothing, such as jackets, sweaters, masks, and gloves, is essential. During this time, we recommend trekking trips in Mu Cang Chai rather than riding motorbikes, as it can be quite cold on the road.

In summary, every season offers unique experiences and different kinds of beauty, depending on personal preferences. For more information to help plan your visit to Mu Cang Chai, feel free to contact the our team. We are a group of Hmong guides living and working in Mu Cang Chai and will provide you with the best advice for your trip.

What to Eat?
Food in Mu Cang Chai is mostly locally sourced and self-sustained, so you can be assured of food safety. What to eat depends on where you are staying:

In the town center: Enjoy meals at local restaurants, with prices ranging from 50,000 VND to 150,000 VND per serving, offering decent to good quality.
At homestays: It’s highly recommended to dine at your homestay, where you’ll not only enjoy delicious and safe meals but also learn about the culture and cuisine from your hosts.
Specialties to try: Don’t miss Tu Le sticky rice and green rice (com) made from young rice grains, both famous local delicacies.

Where to Visit?
The best attractions depend on the season, but here are some places with year-round beauty to ensure your trip is worthwhile:

Khau Pha Pass: One of the four great mountain passes in Northern Vietnam, offering breathtaking scenery.
Mu Cang Chai Bamboo Forest: A mesmerizing destination resembling the bamboo forests in Chinese martial arts movies, this spot is stunning all year round.
Mam Xoi Terrace Fields: Located in Hau De Village, La Pan Tan Commune, this “stairway to heaven” features mesmerizing layers of terraced fields that stretch from the base to the summit of the mountains.
Dinosaur Spine in De Xu Phinh Commune: Offering the most panoramic views in Mu Cang Chai, it’s the perfect spot to watch the sunrise and enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the area.
Seven-Tier Waterfall in Pung Luong Commune: A new and untouched location, accessible only by trekking about 1 km along a trail. It features pristine waterfalls with cool and clean water, perfect for nature lovers.

Where to Stay?
There are plenty of accommodation options depending on your budget and preferences:

Town center: For convenience, stay in Mu Cang Chai town center.
Homestays: For the best experience, choose a homestay 5–20 km from the center. These are run by locals who can greatly enhance your journey with their knowledge and hospitality.

For a hassle-free and enjoyable trip, consider partnering with the our team. We promise to provide you with the best, most exciting, and easiest experience possible!