The transition from the Mai Chau valley to the capital city of Vietnam is around 140km. This short journey is suitable for travellers who want to experience some ethnic culture before going to the active life of a big city.
Overview Of Mai Chau To Hanoi
Tourists often combine these two destinations to enjoy the contrast between Mai Chau and Hanoi. While the Mai Chau valley is tranquil and refreshing, Ha Noi city is dynamic, alluring, and has a lot of historic sites. For people who want to explore the north of Vietnam, traveling from Mai Chau to Ha Noi is less maintenance and easier than traveling from Mai Chau to Sapa or Mai Chau to Ha Giang, or to a faraway place.
How Far Is It From Mai Chau To Hanoi
The distance on the map from the center of Mai Chau City to the center of Hanoi City is about 130 km. However, the distance via road on Highway 6 is about 140 km. This distance follows from the Da River to the hills of Hoa Binh and the Red River Delta. In fact, additional factors such as rush hour or rainy days can add to your travelling time.
How to Travel From Mai Chau to Hanoi
When traveling from Mai Chau to Hanoi, motorbikes, buses/minivans, and rented cars are the three most popular options. Travellers can choose one of them, based on their budget and travel preferences. Whatever kind of transportation you choose, you still have to take Highway 6 to the North, which will allow travelers the scenic experience of the trip. Below is the detailed guide for you to consider and determine the best method for travel.
By Motorbike
By renting a motorbike, you will have the freedom to ride around Mai Chau. The route begins in the center of Mai Chau Valley, taking Highway 6 to Poom Coong village. After this, you can visit the Thung Khe pass, then travel through Hoa Binh city, and finally, return to the suburbs of Hanoi.
Moving time: 4 – 5 hours (including the time you stop to take photos or refuel).
Advantages: As we mentioned, if you travel by motorbike, you can stop whenever you want. Moreover, nothing is fresher than enjoying the cool breeze throughout the whole trip. Cost-wise, travelling by motorbike stands out as probably the most economical mode of transport if you are traveling by yourself or with just one companion.
Disadvantages:
In spite of being free and flexible when travelling, riding a motorbike from Mai Chau to Hanoi also comes with some disadvantages. The biggest one is that it’s tiring with all the winding mountain passes. Besides, the weather will be a big factor – it is always a good idea to have a raincoat with you in case there is suddenly inclement weather. Also, caution should be taken when entering heavy traffic in Hanoi, especially given the active flow of vehicles that requires more focus.
By Bus Or Minivan
Public buses and minivans are an inexpensive and convenient option for travellers to go from Mai Chau to Hanoi. You can depart from Mai Chau bus station or be picked up at your homestay by a minivan. There are many types of buses: regular buses, premium buses, and minivan limousines. The buses operate from 6 AM to 5 PM and depart every 1 to 2 hours. Some night buses leave around 8-10 pm if you would like to sleep overnight to save time.
Moving time: 3.5-4 hours, depending on vehicle type and traffic.
Reference Ticket Prices (one-way/person):
| Vehicle Type | Price (VND) | Amenities |
| Regular Bus | 100,000-150,000 | Basic seating |
| Premium Bus | 150,000-200,000 | Air conditioning, reclining seats, USB ports |
| Limousine Minivan | 250,000-350,000 | Wide seats, free WiFi, bottled water, wet wipes |
Advantages:
- Affordable, especially for a single traveler
- Comfort – luxury buses are air-conditioned, with soft seats that can accommodate families or any special elderly needs better than a private car could.
- You will get to interact with locals. It is always good not to isolate yourself and have a cultural experience with the locals on local buses.
- Safer than motorcycles, with no worry about the weather.
Disadvantages:
- Fixed schedule fare, so it is not flexible if you want to stop looking around.
- Local buses will be crowded around major holidays (January – February, September)
Pro tip: When staying in a town overnight, you should buy your tickets through an online app at least one day prior to ensure you get a good 2-person seat near the viewing windows for the riding experience. Bring headphones or your book to help ease the long bus ride.
By Rented Car
Renting a car provides a more comfortable and personal experience from Mai Chau to Hanoi, and the added benefit of being picked up from your homestay and dropped off at your hotel in Hanoi. The new rates shown below are for half or one-way rates for one trip (or round trip with an overnight stay, for example), with some expectation that the cost will vary based on the vehicle size and group size or the length of the ride.
Private Car Rental Prices (Hanoi to Mai Chau or vice versa):
| Trip Type | 4-Seater Sedan (VND) | 7-Seater SUV (VND) | 16-Seater Minibus (VND) |
| One-Way | 1,200,000 | 1,400,000 | 2,200,000 |
| Round-Trip (2 Days, Vehicle Stays) | 2,600,000 | 2,900,000 | 4,500,000 |
| Round-Trip (3 Days, Vehicle Stays) | 3,500,000 | 3,900,000 | 6,200,000 |
| Round-Trip (Vehicle Not Staying) | 2,000,000 | 2,300,000 | 3,600,000 |
Who is this suitable for:
- International driver with a driving license from Vietnam.
- Familiar and accustomed to driving in the complexity of traffic. Highly recommend not doing this if you are a new driver.
Preparation:
- Agenda: International driver’s permit, passport, Vietnam driver’s license (double-check your documents to ensure you have it).
- Luggage: GPS (Google Maps downloaded and highlighted) and/or cash to pay road tolls (total costs approximately 200,000 VND), emergency repair kit (i.e., tires, tow rope, gas, etc.).
- Route: Highway 6 is flat; caution on potholes after it rains. Entrances and exits into Hanoi can be extremely traffic-clogged during rush hour.
Advantages:
- Can stop whenever the driver desires, listen to music, and adjust the driver’s speed preference.
- Generally, it is more comfortable than on a motorbike, and you can carry more luggage (perfect for small families)
- Adding to the experience by driving through all the unique Northern landscapes.
Disadvantages:
- Hanoi traffic at rush hour can be intimidating and stressful.
- It costs a little more than taking the bus (gasoline will run you approximately 300,000 VND/one way.
- A more complicated rental process if you are a once-in-a-while international guest.
Bonus Tip: Download an offline map and mark gas stations on Highway 6 (approximately one every 50km). Recommend not driving at night to decrease the risks involved.
Tips For Traveling From Mai Chau To Hanoi
If you want to have a convenient, safe, happy, and memorable journey from Mai Chau to Hanoi, you need to learn more about the essential travel tips for this adventure.
- Departure time: You should leave Mai Chau between 7 AM to 9 AM to avoid both the heat and the traffic near Hanoi from 5 PM to 7 PM. If you leave early, you can see the sunrise at Thung Khe Pass.
- Book tickets if travelling by bus/ limousine: You should confirm pick up at least 24 hours in advance.
- Ride safety: When going downhill, remember to always use low gear and signal smoothly when you need to change lanes. For women, make sure the clothing you wear is still fairly conservative.
- Weather: Depending on conditions, the dry season is an ideal time to travel from Mai Chau to Hanoi, while the rainy season can present slippery roads. Be sure to check AccuWeather to make sure you have a raincoat if needed.
- Luggage: Bring a light jacket, some snacks, and a spare battery (cell service can be lacking in the pass).
FAQs About Traveling From Mai Chau To Hanoi
Smooth travels hinge on smart planning. Here’s a curated list to elevate your trip:
Is the road easy to drive?
Mostly paved Highway 6, but the Thung Khe curves challenge novices. Good condition year-round; rainy slips possible, experienced drivers fine
What should I prepare for safe travel during the rainy season?
The rainy season (June-August) causes Highway 6, especially Thung Khe Pass, to be more slippery. Wear a rain jacket, some non-slip shoes, and check the weather report via AccuWeather. If you are traveling by motorbike, you should maintain a speed of 40-50km/h on the pass and bring a tire repair kit. It is safer to travel by bus or a private car. Also, you should prepare a bottle of water and wet towels for comfort.
How can I save money when traveling?
Select a reliable bus service instead of reserving a limousine, as it will save you money. Reserve tickets early through the online application to receive a reasonable price (particularly during the high season or from September through November).
If traveling with a spouse or group, it might be more affordable to hire a private vehicle throughout the experience. Don’t forget to get your snacks in Mai Chau if you don’t want to pay an exorbitant amount for some snacks during the stop on the trip.
Can you combine the Mai Chau to Hanoi tour with the Hanoi to Ninh Binh tour?
Certainly, you can easily travel from Hanoi to Ninh Binh.
Final Thoughts
The Mai Chau to Hanoi experience is a short yet emotional journey that reflects the beauty of the country and the tranquillity of rural life versus the chaos of urban life. Whether you opt for the easy breezy ride on a motorbike, a comfortable minivan, or a fanciful luxury car, you will have the full experience of Northern Vietnam at your disposal. Want to travel worry-free? Leave the planning to Seni World, get in touch today!
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