This small village is not marked on many maps, but if you are heading from Hoa Binh to Moc Chau it is impossible to miss. Mai Chau is set about 2.5 hours North of Hoa Binh and is approached as you go down the side of a very steep valley. From Hoa Binh to Mai Chau you will pass by Man Duc crossroad, which is an hour driving from Hoa Binh and backed by karst peaks, with an interesting market. Another hour from Man Duc is the stop for a spectacular view over Mai Chau valley to the south. The village, nestled between two steep cliffs and surrounded by emerald green paddies, is enchanting to look at as you wind down the mountainside.

"Thai" ethnic people have inhabited in Mai Chau for centuries and are highlighted from other hill tribes for their cleaness, intricate weaving decoration made by dexterous women's hands and hospitable customs. Many evidences show that they are homogenous with the Thai groups living in South of China and in Thailand now. An overnight visit to Lac village or Poong Com village in Mai Chau can be easily combined with trekking or hiking in the surrounding mountain area or with a longer visit to the far Northwest.