Mu Cang Chai: an ecolodge among rice terraces

Mu Cang Chai Ecolodge suits adventurous guests who want to stay away from the crowds, see the authentic lifestyles of H’mong and Dao people and trek through beautiful rice fields. At the moment, only Vietnamese tourists go to Mu Cang Chai in harvest season to photograph some of the best rice terraces in Vietnam. This ecolodge is the only one in the area and we like to offer it as a quieter alternative to busy Sapa, which lies 100 miles away.

The location is the real highlight as its very diverse, with ethnic communities like the Dao and H’mong, who live in villages among unspoiled rice terraces. Guests are amazed by the views from the hilltop setting and enjoy the homestay experience at this small lodge. There are just four bungalows built in the area’s traditional stilt-house style, offering nine private rooms, a dormitory and restaurant with fireplace. There’s plenty of natural wood and the bungalows are named after local crops; rice, pine, tea and corn.

The owners of Mu Cang Chai Ecolodge come from Hanoi but its staff are all H’mong or Thai people who can arrange ethical excursions. Visitors can take a half or full day trekking trip with a local guide to the area’s villages. This is a great way to soak in the scenery and you’ll get to meet the villagers and learn how H’mong handicrafts are made. There’s also a chance to visit a hot spring to soak your feet after the trek and have lunch – it’s all about the local experience.