Mai Chau - Thung Man

Today we continue venturing onto Northern Vietnam by following the old National Highway No 6 which has been left fallow for 20 years. The narrow and bumpy road, cutting through many hill-tops make the topography difficult to maneuver, so the inter-transportation is very limited. Sometimes, if lucky you might catch the appearance of a horse-drawn carriage or buffalo-drawn carriage, but apart from that, this road is quite deserted. Along the way, we have excellent opportunities to learn about the people of different culture, such as the Red Dao, Dao Tien, Muong and Thai ethnic groups. The people living here are very friendly and live a simple lifestyle. They typically live on cultivating dry rice, vegetables and fruit at high altitudes, and hunting in the wild forest.

At noon we stop for lunch at the top of the pass from which a beautiful view of spacious Moc Chau grassland and the Da River can be enjoyed.

The afternoon will provide a real challenge. After heading out of New Highway 6, we make our way onto the torturous and bumpy road. However, the exploring of the H'mong hill tribe’s colorful customs and majestic mountainous scenery, it will make the hardship all worthwhile.