Trekking in Pu Luong
Pu Luong, a nature reserve in the north of Vietnam, is completely immersed in sublime green hills. Established in 1999, this mountainous area still retains its pristine beauty. A trek to Pu Luong is the best way to explore the flora and fauna, the rich culture and traditions of the ethnic minorities living in the area.
Pu Luong Nature Reserve is located in Quan Hoa and Ba Thuoc districts, Thanh Hoa province, about 150 kilometers from the capital Hanoi. It covers an area of 17,662 hectares, of which 13,320 hectares are strictly protected and 4,343 hectares are reserved for ecological restoration.
Once there, you’ll get off the beaten path by exploring the pristine and unspoiled beauty of the reserve. With a great biodiversity, this small haven of peace attracts a large number of tourists by its abundant wildlife and its soothing atmosphere.
The trek to Pu Luong will give you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the terraced fields, the pristine mountains, to the serene beauty of the villages nestled at the foot of the mountain. It is a paradise for adventurers!
During your trek, you will discover the culture of the ethnic groups of northern Vietnam by meeting them, participating in daily activities and spending the night in their traditional houses on stilts. The Thai and Muong people have lived in harmony with the lush nature for generations. The kindness and warmth of the inhabitants will leave you with unforgettable memories of your trip to Vietnam.
Where to trek in Pu Luong ?
Ban Hang village
The village of Ban Hang is nestled in a small deep valley. This small village is inhabited by the Thai ethnic group. It is accessible by the road 15A which connects Mai Chau and Pu Luong. The village is the starting point of many treks.
Kho Muong village
Kho Muong village is located at the bottom of a steep valley. It is an ideal starting point for a trek to Pu Luong which is very popular with tourists. In addition to the spectacular scenery, the stop at Kho Muong village offers the opportunity to discover the daily life of the Muong ethnic group.
Hieu village
Hieu, a small isolated village of the Thai ethnic group, is located in Co Lung commune. Situated on the steep slopes of the mountains, Hieu offers an overview of beautiful valleys with numerous natural waterfalls and rice terraces stretching to the horizon.
Ban Don village
Ban Don village is located in Thanh Son commune, about 30 minutes walk from the main road. You will explore the traditional house on stilts of the Black Thai in the middle of majestic rice terraces.
The best trekking routes in Pu Luong
Pu Luong Nature Reserve offers a variety of trekking tours in the northwest region of Vietnam. Depending on your interest and physical condition, you can choose a trekking route that best suits your needs. We recommend the following suggestions:
- A simple trek to Pu Luong Retreat in Bam village
- To traverse four villages of the Muong ethnic group: Pon – Thanh Cong – Cao Hoong – Kit.
- Walk the paths connecting : Kho Muong – Uoi – Pho Doan – Quan.
Or: Kho Muong – Cao Hoong – Hieu – Pho Doan
- A more sportive trek to the top of Son Ba Muoi through the villages of Nua, Trinh, Hin.
When to go trekking in Pu Luong ?
The best periods to trek in Pu Luong are from the end of September to the beginning of November and from February to the beginning of May with temperatures between 15°C and 30°C.
Pu Luong has the advantage of having two harvests per year. You can therefore go there :
From April to May and in October to admire the spectacular scenery of the golden rice fields.
From December to January, sometimes February, it is cold. The fields are empty.
From June to August, it is the period of strong heat which can make your trek more tiring.
Pu Luong is the ideal place for a two or three days trek near Hanoi. You will be immersed in the biodiversity, the nature and the tranquility of this small paradise.
