Mu Cang Chai
Experience harvest time in Mu Cang Chai and explore remote villages frozen in time.
The famous rice terraces of Mu Cang Chai in Vietnam are simply breathtaking. They showcase the harmonious relationship between humans and nature. Nestled in the majestic mountains of Yen Bai province, these terraces have been sculpted over the decades by the skillful hands of local farmers.
What makes the rice terraces of Mu Cang Chai truly remarkable is their intricate design and the stunning visual impact they create. Carved into the mountainside. The terraces create a mesmerizing landscape of undulating curves and shades of vibrant green, especially during the growing season.
The rice terraces of Mu Cang Chai are not only an agricultural marvel but also a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of the ethnic communities that inhabit the region, particularly the H’mong people. These terraces serve as a livelihood for the local communities, providing sustenance and economic stability.
Throughout the year, the scenery of the rice terraces undergoes a dramatic transformation. During the planting season, the terraces are flooded with water, creating a mirrored effect that reflects the surrounding landscape. As the rice plants grow, the terraces transform into a sea of lush greenery. The most captivating time to visit is during the harvest season, typically in September and October, when the rice terraces turn into a golden canvas, shimmering under the warm sunlight.
Mu Cang Chai’s rice terraces have not only become a symbol of natural beauty but also a popular destination for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
Our photography tour will immerse you and your friends in the tranquility of the rural landscape, capture stunning Landscapes and Portraits as we interact with the friendly locals, we will gain a deeper appreciation for the delicate balance between rural Vietnamese and their environment.
Our 8 day Mu Cang Chai Photo Tour has flexible options for all budgets and accommodation requirements, Please enquire or call and express your interest on this fantastic photographic adventure.
Next departure: 22nd to 29th September
What to Expect
Your photography tour begins with an early morning visit to Tho Ha Handicraft Village, immersing yourself in the world of local artisans and their intricate creations. After a brief rest at the hotel, you embark on a captivating Hanoi By Night tour, venturing into the illuminated streets and capturing the vibrant nightlife.
Following an overnight train journey, you arrive at Lao Cai train station and head to Bac Ha, known for its white horses. Explore the historic Hmong King’s Palace, utilizing dynamic angles and natural light to capture its architectural beauty. A serene longboat trip along the River Chay takes you to remote riverside villages and a picturesque waterfall, providing ample opportunities for captivating imagery.
We’ll visit the ever lively Bac Ha tribal market, capturing vibrant portraits and immersing ourselves in the local culture. In the afternoon, travel to Yen Bai, staying at the beautiful and relaxed Xoi Farmstay, we’ll wonder through the valley’s rice paddies during the harvest, We’ll spend time reviewing your photographs and delve into post-processing techniques using Lightroom, enhancing your visual narratives.
Our journey continues to the majestic Mu Cang Chai, where towering rice terraces captivate you. Explore picturesque villages, witness local farmers in action, and seize enchanting moments during sunset, when the terraces transform into a golden tapestry.
A perfect mix of portrait and landscape photography mixed with cultural experience.
Image Gallery
Tour Information
Recommended Equipment
- Digital Camera
- Drone
- Selections of lens
- Cable release
- Tripod
- Memory cards
- CPL & ND Graduated filters
- Laptop/tablet
- Storage device
What's included
- Hotel Pickup and Dropoff
- Accommodation as indicated in the itinerary
- All transportation
- Meals as indicated in the itinerary
- Daily activities and excursions as indicated in the itinerary
- local guides and government permits
- Photography Workshop with our photographer leader
What's not included
- Gratuities
- Alcoholic beverages
- Airfare to and from destination, as well as internal airfare where applicable
- Trip cancellation insurance or any other travel insurance
- Visas
Tour Length
8 Days
Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 minutes prior to this time
Level of Difficulty
Moderate Physical activity (Walking)
Seasonality
This northern tour through Vietnam is available annually during the months of January to May and from August to December. We officially run this tour as part of our Golden Harvest Tour on our designated dates near the end of September (when the rice paddies turn from green to gold and harvest begins in the terraces).
Photography teaching
On a photo tour with us, your experience, images and development as a photographer are the priority. Before the tour, we’ll send you a short questionnaire to find out your interests, style and photography knowledge. Tips to improve your pictures will be provided by our professional photographer guides throughout the trip, and we’ll have regular reviews, individually and as a group. While enjoying a rich variety of photographic opportunities on tour, you’ll gain valuable insights on how to get the best out of your images, and how to take your skills to the next level.
