Long Coc is well positioned as a stopping point when heading to or from Mu Cang Chai to Hanoi. The ride from Mu Cang Chai to Hanoi is just a bit too far to be comfortable at near 300km. In a pinch you can do it and the roads are good but I try to stay under 250km per day. At ~00 km from Hanoi Long Coc is both a good way station on a longer trip north or even a day trip from Hanoi.
The main draw for Long Coc are the amazing tea fields. And unlike rice terraces the tea fields are nice year round. They are often shrouded in fog which makes for some great atmosphere. If you’re really lucky you will have clouds floating among the tea hills. A really special site. The best time of year to get those misty, cloudy mornings is September to April.
Lot’s of homestays in the area at good prices. Most will guide you to the best viewing spots with separate sunrise and sunset spots.
