
Vietnam Best Homestays: A DMC’s insider guide to authentic local stays (part 2)
In part one of our series, we explored some of Vietnam’s most authentic homestays where travelers can connect deeply with local communities. Yet, the beauty of Vietnam lies in its diversity, every region offers its own traditions, landscapes, and stories.
As a trusted DMC in Vietnam, 365 Travel continues this journey by uncovering more homestays that stand out for their cultural authenticity, natural surroundings, and warm hospitality. Each property has been thoughtfully selected to ensure travelers not only find comfort but also meaningful experiences that go beyond the ordinary.
We invite you to discover part two of our guide and explore new ways to bring Vietnam’s rich heritage closer to your clients.
Top Homestay in Mu Cang Chai (Yen Bai)
Located about 300 km northwest of Hanoi, Mu Cang Chai in Yen Bai Province is one of Vietnam’s most breathtaking mountain destinations, renowned for its spectacular terraced rice fields. The best time to visit is from September to October, when rice paddies are at their most beautiful, and again in spring for blooming flowers and fresh mountain air.
Mu Cang Chai Eco Lodge
A 3 star eco-friendly retreat, Mu Cang Chai Eco Lodge sits harmoniously among the terraced hillsides. It is well-positioned for exploring the area’s main attractions such as La Pan Tan, Che Cu Nha, and De Xu Phinh, all within roughly 15–30 minutes by car. Its campus consists of nine traditional stilt houses, each named after local specialties, with a total capacity of more than 40 guests. The lodge is operated in close connection with Thai and Hmong communities, ensuring that visitors enjoy not just comfortable stays but also meaningful encounters with local culture.
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Muong Lo Retreat
Muong Lo Retreat is situated in the Muong Lo Valley, approximately 80 kilometers from Mu Cang Chai, along the route from Hanoi, making it an ideal stopover to rest and relax after a long journey. Surrounded by lush nature, it offers a tranquil atmosphere perfect for relaxation while also serving as a gateway to explore the cultural richness of the Thai, Hmong, and Dao people. The property features three room categories, including community rooms. Its convenient location provides easy access to well-known local attractions, while activities like hiking and trekking ensure a balance of leisure and adventure.
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Chi Pau House (Tram Tau)
Located in Tram Tau (which is 100km from Mu Cang Chai), Chi Pau House offers 19 rooms across five categories, catering to both solo travelers and families. The homestay boasts stunning mountain views, allowing guests to wake up to misty valleys and vibrant rice terraces. Its strategic location makes it a practical choice for travelers who want to combine comfort with easy access to surrounding attractions and trekking routes. With warm service and a touch of modern amenities, Chi Pau House ensures a comfortable yet authentic highland experience.
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A Su Homestay Mu Cang Chai
Perched at 1,500 meters, A Su Homestay is the highest homestay in Mu Cang Chai, offering sweeping views of the famous terraced fields across La Pan Tan, Che Cu Nha, and De Xu Phinh. Just a few kilometers from Doi Mam Xoi, Hau De waterfall, and the peach blossom forests, it is a perfect base for exploration. With capacity for just over 25 guests, A Su offers both comfort and an authentic glimpse into Hmong daily life, enhanced by its warm, locally and eco-inspired design.
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Top Homestay in Ha Giang
Located about 300 km north of Hanoi, Ha Giang is famous for its majestic karst plateaus, dramatic mountain passes, and ethnic minority villages rich in tradition. Unlike many other tourist destinations, Ha Giang has retained its authenticity and is far less commercialized, making it perfect for travelers who seek cultural immersion rather than luxury stays.
Ha Giang can be visited year-round, as each season has its own charm: buckwheat flower fields in October–November, golden rice terraces in September, and peach and plum blossoms in spring. However, the rainy season from June to August may bring landslides, so travelers should plan accordingly.
Panhou Retreat
Tucked away in Hoang Su Phi, Panhou Retreat is a wellness-focused hideaway featuring rustic palm-thatched wooden houses surrounded by serene mountains and forests. It emphasizes both physical and mental wellbeing, combining relaxation, natural therapies, and cultural connection with the Dao people. With 25 rooms and one villa, Panhou Retreat is ideal for travelers who value sustainable tourism and seek a restorative, nature-inspired retreat.
Auberge de Meo Vac Homestay
Just a 10-minute walk from Meo Vac market, Auberge de Meo Vac is a century-old Hmong earthen house that has been lovingly restored. With thick rammed-earth walls, a tiled roof, and a stone courtyard, the property radiates timeless tradition. The homestay has only 3 single rooms, 2 doubles, and a dorm, accommodating 12–14 guests. While the facilities are far more simple, it offers an authentic cultural experience and tranquil atmosphere, perfect for travelers who want to connect with Hmong heritage.
Dong Van Cliffside House
Dong Van CliffSide House is located right below the historic Don Cao site, only a 250-meter walk from the center of Dong Van Old Quarter.
The homestay is built into a cliff, which gives it a unique view. From the front of the house, you can see a large field and a valley that looks out over the whole Dong Van Karst Plateau.
There are 6 rooms in 5 different styles, and can accommodate almost 25 people. It’s a great place to stay for anyone who wants to be close to nature while having easy access to town.
H’mong village
Situated in Quan Ba, about 50 km northeast of Ha Giang City, H’mong Village is one of the largest community-based accommodations in the region. It features 35 bungalows and a communal stilt-house area, with capacity for over 120 guests. Designed with local materials such as wood, stone, and bamboo, the resort reflects the character of the Dong Van Karst Plateau. This stay is well-suited for groups, families, or travelers seeking a cultural experience with more facilities at hand.
To Day Du Gia Village
Perched on a small hill in Du Gia, Yen Minh, this homestay offers a peaceful atmosphere and traditional Tay-style stilt houses built from bamboo, red earth, and straw. With capacity for about 20 guests across four room types, it’s a favorite among international travelers who value simplicity, affordable comfort, and a green environment with an affordable budget. Its location also makes it easy to explore highlights such as Lung Cu Flag Tower, Sung La Valley, and Dong Van.
Top Homestay in Mekong Delta
Just a few hours from Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong Delta is Vietnam’s “rice bowl,” shaped by a maze of the branches of the Mekong River and canals. Here, visitors can explore floating markets, cruise through lush waterways, and taste tropical fruits straight from the orchard. Life in the Delta is slow-paced and deeply connected to nature, offering a glimpse into authentic Vietnamese rural culture. The region is best enjoyed from December to April, but each season reveals its own charm.
Ut Trinh – Ut Binh – Ut Quynh Homestays
Nestled on the lush An Binh Islet, Vinh Long, these family-run homestays offer an authentic glimpse into the slow-paced river life of the Mekong Delta. Each homestay has a modest capacity of around 32 guests, ensuring a cozy, communal atmosphere. Guests stay in simple yet cozy rooms surrounded by fruit orchards, enjoy home-cooked meals with fresh local ingredients, and take part in activities such as cycling through villages, rowing sampans, or learning how to cook Vietnamese dishes. The warm hospitality of the host families makes it a truly immersive cultural experience.
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Ong Kiet Ancient House – Cai Be
The Ong Kiet Ancient House in Cai Be, Tien Giang, is a 200 years old heritage gem recognized by UNESCO Asia–Pacific as a cultural site. Built around 1838, the house spans nearly 1,000 square meters with four main chambers and two connecting wings. Its grandeur is reflected in 108 pillars made of precious woods such as ironwood and rosewood, symbolizing both elegance and strength. With only four rooms, the house offers limited capacity, making it ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small families seeking an intimate stay while immersing themselves in local history and culture.
A charming corner of Ong Kiet Ancient House.
Your local partner for authentic Vietnam experiences
With countless homestay options across the country, finding the right one for each traveler can be overwhelming. That’s where a trusted DMC partner makes the difference. With our local expertise and deep connections, we know exactly which homestays fit your clients’ needs while ensuring authenticity and comfort. Partner with us to create journeys that truly connect travelers with the heart of Vietnam.