January and February are the most beautiful months of the year for tourism in Moc Chau (Son La province), when the hillsides are covered in the white blossoms of plum trees and the pink blossoms of peach trees. During the Lunar New Year, this plateau attracts a large number of tourists thanks to its fresh air, ripe strawberries, and pristine villages. For a smooth trip, tourists should follow a 3-day itinerary advised by local guides and tourism experts.

Day 1: Take photos of the plum valley and watch the sunset over the tea hills.

After arriving in Moc Chau town center and checking into their accommodation, visitors should begin their journey in the flower valleys. The most nổi prominent is Na Ka plum valley, with its flat terrain and convenient access for private cars. If you want a quieter and more pristine environment, the villages of Pa Phach, Phieng Canh, or the Cho Long area are suitable alternatives, although the roads may be more challenging.

Especially during Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year), famous plum orchards are usually very crowded. It's advisable for visitors to travel further from the city center to enjoy the open air and admire the most beautiful blossoming plum trees. The afternoon is ideal for relaxing at cafes with panoramic views, such as Da Coffee, Canh Cam Cafe, or Halian Garden, to watch the sunset over the lush green tea plantations.

Day 2: Explore Tau Cave and experience strawberry picking in the garden.

On Monday morning, before venturing deeper into the villages, visitors should stop by strawberry farms such as Chimi, Hana, Green Farm, or Lam Son Farm. This is the peak season for Moc Chau strawberries, with large, juicy fruits. Visitors can pick and enjoy strawberries right in the garden or buy them as souvenirs, ensuring the freshest and best quality.

Strawberries are starting to ripen and turn red in the orchards of Moc Chau. Photo: Lam Son Farm

The journey continues with the destination of Hang Tau – a pristine village located about 20 km from the city center. After the rainy season, the area is covered in a lush green carpet of grass, perfect for trekking, horseback riding, and landscape photography. Note that the road to Hang Tau is currently under renovation and is quite bumpy. There is no internet and the electricity is weak in this area, offering a completely isolated experience from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

Day 3: Visit an orchard of oranges with protruding navels and enjoy local specialties.

During the Lunar New Year, the Navel orange orchards (from Australia) and persimmon gardens in Moc Chau are still laden with fruit. With an entrance fee of 40,000 to 50,000 VND, visitors can freely take photos and enjoy oranges directly from the trees. As for the persimmon orchards, the Japanese astringent persimmon variety, though inedible, boasts a vibrant orange-red color, creating an impressive backdrop for memorable photos.

If you're looking for more peace and quiet, waterfalls like Nàng Tiên or Chiềng Khoa are ideal alternatives. Although located further from the town center, the pristine beauty of their turquoise waters is sure to please visitors. For directions, visitors can refer to the map of major local attractions.

Moc Chau tourist map. Graphics: Ta Lu

Food recommendations and accommodation tips

Throughout your trip, don't miss the opportunity to enjoy the region's famous dishes such as salmon, sturgeon, stir-fried veal, fried stream fish, and milk hot pot. Some reputable places in the town center include Vuon Dao Restaurant, Hang Doi Restaurant, Ca Hoi 64 Restaurant, or Ca Hoi 26 Restaurant. Due to the large number of tourists flocking to Moc Chau during Tet (Lunar New Year), booking accommodations and photography services early is crucial for a perfect holiday.