Discover the top 10 things to do in Hoa Binh, Phu Tho, Vietnam! Explore Mai Chau, Mu Waterfall, costs, transport, and Legend Travel Group’s sustainable tours. Book your adventure now!
Capture the tranquil beauty of Phu Tho’s ecotourism gem (Source: Internet)
Mu waterfall - Capture the authentic charm of Phu Tho’s eco-tourism (Source: Internet)Hoa Binh, located in Hoa Binh Ward, Phu Tho Province, is a vibrant ecotourism and cultural hub 75 km west of Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward, attracting over 40,000 visitors annually. Nestled along the Da River with rugged mountains, lush valleys, and 200+ plant species, Hoa Binh offers a rich tapestry of Muong and Thai heritage, pristine landscapes, and adventure opportunities. With entry fees to key sites at $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND), it’s a must-visit for travelers seeking authentic experiences near Mai Chau Ward.
From trekking jungle trails to soaking in Kim Boi hot springs, Hoa Binh blends natural beauty with cultural depth. Sustainable practices, such as community-led homestays, eco-friendly tours, and local sourcing, align with Phu Tho’s green tourism goals, set in a temperate climate (dry season: November–April, 16–26°C or 60.8–78.8°F; rainy season: May–October, 23–33°C or 73.4–91.4°F). Legend Travel Group’s sustainable tours guide you through Hoa Binh’s wonders, ensuring an immersive, eco-friendly journey. Book via the links below or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!
Following Vietnam’s administrative restructuring, Hoa Binh Province merged into Phu Tho Province, with Hoa Binh reclassified as Hoa Binh Ward. This simplifies navigation using ward-based maps, while Hoa Binh remains a top destination near Mai Chau Ward.
The Hoa Binh Hydropower plant (Source: Internet)Legend Travel Group leads in sustainable Southeast Asia tourism, offering curated eco-tours in Phu Tho for travelers seeking authentic cultural and natural experiences. Our tours use low-impact transport like bicycles or electric vans, led by English-speaking guides who share Muong and Thai traditions, ecological insights, and green practices, ensuring a safe, enriching adventure. Supporting local communities, we align with Phu Tho’s eco-tourism initiatives. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, planning is seamless. Book our eco-tours via the links below and explore Hoa Binh responsibly!
Thung Nai - Begin your Phu Tho Tours with a scenic adventure (Source: Internet)Located in Hoa Binh Ward, 75 km from Hanoi, Hoa Binh is a biodiverse and cultural hotspot established as a tourist site in the 1990s. Its 100-hectare landscape includes rice paddies, forests, and 150 tree species, many in Vietnam’s Red Book. Home to over 180 historic sites, Hoa Binh is the cradle of the ancient “Hoa Binh Culture.” Activities like cycling, trekking, and stilt house stays, paired with sustainable practices such as trail maintenance and community-led tourism, make Hoa Binh a model of ecotourism, offering an unforgettable escape near Mai Chau.
Mai Chau - the most famous destination in Hoa Binh (Source: Internet)Explore Mai Chau Ward’s 120-hectare valley with 5–10 km trekking trails, best at 7:00 AM, for $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND) with a guide. Wander through rice paddies and Thai villages like Ban Lac, immersing in local life. Entry: $1.50–$2.50 (40,000–60,000 VND). Best in September–October for golden harvests. Eco-friendly guided treks protect the ecosystem.
Cost: $2–$5; entry $1.50–$2.50.
Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–5:00 PM.
Tip: Book via Legend Travel Group’s Mai Chau Trekking Tour ($50–$80).
Visit Mu Waterfall in Tu Do Commune, 120 km from Hanoi, for a refreshing dip in its 2-meter-deep turquoise pools, best at 10:00 AM. Entry: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND). Hike upper tiers ($2–$4 or 50,000–100,000 VND) for forest views. Best in November–April for dry trails. Avoid littering to preserve this pristine site.
Cost: $1–$2; trek $2–$4.
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM.
Tip: Included in Legend Travel Group’s Mu Waterfall Tour ($50–$80).
Sail Thung Nai’s emerald lake in Thung Nai Commune, 110 km from Hanoi, best at 2:00 PM, for $6–$10 (150,000–250,000 VND). Visit Thac Chua Temple and Thac Bo Cave amidst floating islands. No entry fee. Best in May–October for high water levels. Low-emission boats support local sustainability.
Cost: $6–$10.
Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM.
Tip: Book at Binh Thanh marina; included in Legend Travel Group’s Thung Nai Eco-Tour ($60–$80).
Explore the “Century Project” in Hoa Binh Ward, 75 km from Hanoi, with 50.5-meter-high engine room tunnels ($3–$5 or 75,000–125,000 VND), best at 9:00 AM. See the 18-meter Ho Chi Minh statue. Entry: $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND). Year-round appeal, with spillway views in May–October. LED-lit tours minimize energy use.
Cost: $3–$5; entry $2–$3.
Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM.
Tip: Included in Legend Travel Group’s Hoa Binh Plant Tour ($50–$70).
Soak in Kim Boi’s mineral springs in Kim Boi Ward, 30 km from Hoa Binh, best at 8:00 AM, for $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND). These 34–36°C waters aid health issues like joint pain. Best in November–April for cool weather. Eco-resorts use solar power for sustainability.
Cost: $3–$5.
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–7:00 PM.
Tip: Included in Legend Travel Group’s Kim Boi Wellness Tour ($50–$80).
Climb 1,200 steps to Chieu Cave in Mai Chau Ward, 135 km from Hanoi, best at 10:00 AM, for $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND). Marvel at shimmering stalactites in two chambers. Entry: $1.50–$2.50 (40,000–60,000 VND). Year-round, with cool interiors. Stick to paths to preserve the cave.
Cost: $1–$2; entry $1.50–$2.50.
Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM.
Tip: Wear sturdy shoes; included in Legend Travel Group’s Mai Chau Cultural Tour ($50–$80).
Discover Go Lao Waterfall, 15 km from Mai Chau Ward, best at 9:00 AM, for $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND). Enjoy its 20-meter cascade and Ba Khan Lake views. Entry: $1.50–$2.50 (40,000–60,000 VND). Best in May–October for full flow. Rough roads require caution; avoid littering.
Cost: $1–$2; entry $1.50–$2.50.
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM.
Tip: Combine with Mai Chau tours; included in Legend Travel Group’s Mai Chau Adventure Tour ($50–$80).
Marvel at nine waterfalls in Cuu Thac Tu Son, 60 km from Hanoi, best at 8:00 AM, for $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND). Highlights include Au Co Love and Long Cung falls. Entry: $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND). Year-round, with mud baths and spas. Eco-friendly resorts support local legends.
Cost: $3–$5; entry $2–$3.
Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM.
Tip: Included in Legend Travel Group’s Hoa Binh Nature Tour ($50–$80).
Participate in Muong festivals like Tet in Hoa Binh Ward, best in January–February, for $0–$3 (0–75,000 VND). Enjoy gong dances and “cơm lam” tastings. Entry: $1.50–$2.50 (40,000–60,000 VND). Community-led events promote cultural preservation. Book early for peak seasons.
Cost: Free–$3; entry $1.50–$2.50.
Hours: Varies by festival; typically daytime.
Tip: Included in Legend Travel Group’s Hoa Binh Festival Tour ($50–$80).
Relax at eco-lodges like those in Bakhan, Tan Mai Ward, 135 km from Hanoi, for $20–$40 (500,000–1,000,000 VND/night), best at 6:00 PM. Enjoy Muong cuisine and valley views. Entry to nearby sites: $1.50–$2.50 (40,000–60,000 VND). Year-round, with sustainable amenities like solar power.
Cost: $20–$40; entry $1.50–$2.50.
Hours: Check-in 2:00 PM; check-out 12:00 PM.
Tip: Book via Legend Travel Group’s Hoa Binh Overnight Eco-Tour ($90–$140).
Visiting Go Lao Waterfall (Source: Internet)Visit from November to April for cool, dry weather (16–26°C or 60.8–78.8°F), ideal for trekking, cycling, and cultural festivals. The rainy season (May–October) enhances waterfall flows and Thung Nai’s lake views but makes trails slippery, requiring rain gear. Weekdays (Monday–Thursday) see fewer crowds (100–200 daily visitors) than weekends (400–800), especially during Tet (January/February). Early mornings (6:00–9:00 AM) offer serene views; afternoons (2:00–5:00 PM) are great for cruises and homestays.
Stepping into Chieu cave (Source: Internet)Hoa Binh, in Hoa Binh Ward, is 75 km from Hoan Kiem Ward, reachable in 1.5–2 hours. Mai Chau and Tan Mai Ward (135 km), Mu Waterfall (120 km), and Thung Nai (110 km) take 3–3.5 hours:
By Private Car: Drive via QL6, costing $25–$40 (625,000–1,000,000 VND) round-trip for 4 people to Hoa Binh; $35–$55 (875,000–1,375,000 VND) to Mai Chau/Mu Waterfall/Thung Nai. Book via Legend Travel Group.
By Electric Taxi (Xanh SM): Eco-friendly taxis, $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND) one-way to Hoa Binh; $40–$60 (1,000,000–1,500,000 VND) round-trip. Others: $60–$80 (1,500,000–2,000,000 VND) round-trip. Use Xanh SM app.
By Private Motorcycle: Ride via QL6, $8–$12 (200,000–300,000 VND) fuel to Hoa Binh; $12–$18 (300,000–450,000 VND) to others. Rental: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND). Helmets mandatory (fines up to $40 or 1,000,000 VND).
By Public Bus: From My Dinh to Hoa Binh Ward (2 hours, $1.50–$2.50 or 40,000–60,000 VND) or Mai Chau Ward (3.5 hours, $2–$3 or 50,000–75,000 VND). Mu Waterfall/Thung Nai: Bus to Hoa Binh + motorbike taxi ($3–$5 or 75,000–125,000 VND).
By Bicycle (Adventurous): Rent in Hanoi ($3–$6/day), 4–5 hours to Hoa Binh, not recommended for others due to distance.
By Private Tour Bus (Legend Travel Group): Group bus from Hanoi, $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND)/person to Hoa Binh; $12–$18 (300,000–450,000 VND) to others.
From Noi Bai Airport: Private car to Hoa Binh ($35–$50 or 875,000–1,250,000 VND, 2 hours, 100 km); to others ($45–$60 or 1,125,000–1,500,000 VND, 3.5 hours). Xanh SM taxi: $30–$40 (750,000–1,000,000 VND) to Hoa Binh, $40–$50 (1,000,000–1,250,000 VND) to others. Airport Bus No. 86 to Hoan Kiem ($1.40 or 35,000 VND, 50–60 min) + private car. Navigation Tip: Save “Hoa Binh Ward, Phu Tho” or specific sites (e.g., “Mu Waterfall, Tu Do Commune”) in offline maps (Maps.me). Parking: $0.80–$1.20 (20,000–30,000 VND).
Eco-Friendly Note: Xanh SM taxis or group buses reduce emissions; cycling minimizes impact.
Safety: Wear helmets on motorcycles; secure valuables. Confirm fares for taxis/motorbike taxis.
Kim Boi Hot Spring (Source: Internet)Pack these essentials for a sustainable visit:
Clothing: Light layers, sturdy trekking shoes; waterproof jacket ($3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND) for rainy season; swimsuit for waterfalls/hot springs.
Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses.
Travel Essentials: Reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($2–$5), mosquito repellent ($0.50 or 12,500 VND), hand sanitizer ($0.50).
Tech Gear: Smartphone with Grab/Xanh SM/BusMap apps, offline maps, portable charger; Vietnamese SIM card ($5–$10).
Outdoor Gear: Small backpack, camera for scenic shots, towel for swimming.
Documents: Passport copy, travel insurance, VND (10,000–50,000 notes).
Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote for market buys ($1–$2); biodegradable wipes.
Extras: Snacks for treks; cash for small vendors.
Tip: Carry small VND notes for entry ($1–$3), activities ($2–$10), or snacks ($0.50–$3); secure valuables on trails.
Cuu Thac Tu Son - The fairyland of 9 waterfalls (Source: Internet)Entry and Activity Fees
Entry to Sites: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND) adult; $0.50–$1.50 (12,500–37,500 VND) child under 1.3m.
Mai Chau Trek: $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND); entry $1.50–$2.50.
Mu Waterfall: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND); trek $2–$4.
Thung Nai Cruise: $6–$10 (150,000–250,000 VND).
Hoa Binh Hydropower Plant: $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND); tunnel tour $3–$5.
Kim Boi Hot Springs: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND).
Chieu Cave: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND); entry $1.50–$2.50.
Go Lao Waterfall: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND); entry $1.50–$2.50.
Cuu Thac Tu Son: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND); entry $2–$3.
Muong Festival: Free–$3 (0–75,000 VND); entry $1.50–$2.50.
Eco-Lodge Stay: $20–$40 (500,000–1,000,000 VND/night).
Local Snacks: $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).
Drinks (Water, Tea): $0.30–$1 (7,000–25,000 VND).
Souvenirs (e.g., Thai Silk): $2–$10 (50,000–250,000 VND).
Guided Eco-Tour: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).
Transportation (Round-Trip, from Hoan Kiem Ward)
Private Car: $25–$40 (625,000–1,000,000 VND) to Hoa Binh; $35–$55 (875,000–1,375,000 VND) to Mai Chau/Mu Waterfall/Thung Nai.
Xanh SM Electric Taxi: $40–$60 (1,000,000–1,500,000 VND) to Hoa Binh; $60–$80 (1,500,000–2,000,000 VND) to others.
Private Motorcycle: $8–$12 (200,000–300,000 VND) fuel to Hoa Binh; $12–$18 (300,000–450,000 VND) to others; rental $5–$10/day.
Public Bus: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND) to Hoa Binh; $4–$6 (100,000–150,000 VND) to Mai Chau. Mu Waterfall/Thung Nai: $10–$16 (250,000–400,000 VND) with motorbike taxi.
Bicycle Rental: $3–$6/day (75,000–150,000 VND).
Private Tour Bus: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND)/person to Hoa Binh; $12–$18 (300,000–450,000 VND) to others.
Airport to Hoa Binh: $35–$50 (875,000–1,250,000 VND); to others: $45–$60 (1,125,000–1,500,000 VND).
Parking: $0.80–$1.20 (20,000–30,000 VND).
SIM Card: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Total Daily Cost (Per Person)
Budget: $10–$20 (bus, entry, snacks).
Mid-range: $30–$50 (private car, activities, guided tour).
Luxury: $80–$120 (Xanh SM taxi, eco-lodge, premium tour).
Tip: Budget for entry ($1–$3), activities ($2–$10), and transport ($3–$80); carry cash for tickets and vendors (no cards accepted).
Joining together in Mai Chau (Source: Internet)Timing: Visit November–April for dry trails; May–October for lush waterfalls. Weekdays for fewer crowds (100–200 vs. 400–800 on weekends). Book early for Tet festivals.
Booking: Buy entry tickets on-site (QR code e-tickets); reserve Legend Travel Group’s tours 24–48 hours ahead for guided activities or homestays. Book cruises at Thung Nai or activities at homestays.
Sustainability: Stay on trails/cave paths to protect ecosystems; bring reusable bottles to reduce plastic. Support Muong/Thai vendors for snacks ($0.50–$3) or crafts ($2–$10).
Navigation: Save specific sites in offline maps; ask locals for directions. Avoid night rides due to rural roads.
Safety: Wear sturdy shoes at waterfalls (2-meter depths) and caves; secure valuables. Confirm fares for taxis/motorbike taxis.
Weather: Dry season for safe trekking; rainy season needs rain gear ($3–$6) and waterproof bags ($3–$7 or 75,000–175,000 VND). Check AccuWeather.
Cultural Respect: Dress modestly in homestays/festivals (cover shoulders/knees); say “xin chào” to locals. Respect cultural sites; avoid loud talking.
Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50); carry mosquito repellent and hand sanitizer.
Stay at Bakhan Village Resort - Perfect Location For A Mountain Retreat (Source: Internet)Our eco-friendly tours showcase Hoa Binh’s top attractions:
Hoa Binh Explorer Tour ($45–$75/person, 1 day): Private car to Hoa Binh for Hydropower Plant tour, market visit, and Kim Boi hot springs, with lunch ($2–$5). Includes guide, transport.
Mai Chau & Thung Nai Adventure ($90–$140/person, 2 days): Mai Chau trekking, Thung Nai cruise, Muong homestay ($15–$25/night). Includes meals, guide.
Phu Tho & Mu Waterfall Immersion ($220–$350/person, 3 days): Hoa Binh, Mai Chau, Mu Waterfall, homestays. Includes meals, eco-transfers. Prices include guides, eco-transfers, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now via links!
Room at Bakhan Village Resort (Source: Internet)Hoa Binh in Phu Tho’s Hoa Binh Ward, with entry at $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND), is an ecotourism and cultural haven enchanting over 40,000 visitors yearly, 75 km from Hoan Kiem Ward. From trekking Mai Chau’s rice fields to cruising Thung Nai’s lake, its sustainable practices like eco-lodges and community-led tours preserve its charm. Legend Travel Group’s Phu Tho Tours guide you through these 10 unforgettable experiences, ensuring a sustainable Phu Tho Travel green, immersive escape. Whether exploring Chieu Cave or relaxing at Cuu Thac Tu Son, Hoa Binh promises an unparalleled Phu Tho adventure. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-journey today!
Ready to experience Hoa Binh’s top attractions in Phu Tho? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable adventure!
Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
Sources: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group
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