From Ha Noi: Tam Coc -Hoa Lu & Mua Cave Full-Day Trip

Set out on a captivating full-day adventure from Ha Noi to explore Vietnam’s ancient capital, Hoa Lu, and the stunning natural landscapes of Tam Coc and Mua Cave. This well-rounded excursion promises a unique blend of history, scenic cycling, a serene boat ride, and breathtaking panoramic views. Whether you’re a history buff or outdoor enthusiast, this carefully curated itinerary offers an immersive experience that’ll leave you with lasting memories.

Key Points

• This full-day trip from Ha Noi includes visits to Tam Coc, Hoa Lu, and Mua Cave, with activities like cycling, a bamboo boat ride, and climbing 500 steps.
• The price starts at $56.39 per person for a 10-hour excursion, including hotel pickup, buffet lunch, and guided visits.
• Explore the ancient capital of Vietnam, Hoa Lu, and learn about its historical significance during the Dinh, Le, and Ly Dynasties.
• Enjoy a scenic cycling journey through peaceful countryside villages, with opportunities to observe daily rural life and take in panoramic views.
• Experience the unique landscape of Tam Coc, often referred to as "Ha Long Bay on Land," with a 1.5-hour bamboo boat trip and the option to climb 500 steps to the Mua Cave viewpoint.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Trip Overview

The full-day trip from Ha Noi takes travelers to the scenic destinations of Tam Coc, Hoa Lu, and Mua Cave. Priced from $56.39 per person, the 10-hour excursion includes hotel pickup, a buffet lunch, and guided visits to Hoa Lu’s ancient capital, cycling through the countryside, a 1.5-hour bamboo boat trip in Tam Coc, and climbing 500 steps to the panoramic viewpoint of Mua Cave.

Travelers can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. The trip isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or young children, and prohibited items include luggage, alcohol, and drugs.

Itinerary Highlights

The trip starts with pickup at the hotel in either Ha Noi Old Quarter, Ha Noi Opera House, or Ninh Binh city center.

Guests will visit Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam, learning about the feudal system under the Dinh, Le, and Ly Dynasties.

After, they’ll cycle through peaceful countryside villages.

A buffet lunch featuring local favorites like goat meat, fish, chicken, and vegetarian options is included.

The highlight is a 1.5-hour bamboo boat trip in Tam Coc, known as "Ha Long Bay on land."

Finally, visitors climb 500 steps to Mua Cave for panoramic views of Tam Coc.

Visiting Hoa Lu, the Ancient Capital of Vietnam

After visiting the bustling city of Hanoi, travelers embark on a journey to Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam that thrived from 968 to 1010 AD.

There, they’ll explore the remnants of the feudal system under the Dinh, Le, and Ly Dynasties. The guide shares insights into the historical significance of this site, once the political and cultural center of the country.

Travelers can wander through the ancient temples and ruins, imagining the grandeur of this former capital. This stop offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s storied past and provides context for the rest of the day’s adventure.

Cycling Around Peaceful Countryside Villages

Leaving the ancient capital behind, travelers embark on a scenic cycling journey through the peaceful countryside villages.

Riding along winding paths, they’re surrounded by lush green rice paddies and grazing water buffaloes. Friendly locals wave as they pedal past humble homes and small farms. The leisurely pace allows time to soak in the tranquil atmosphere and observe daily rural life.

Cyclists may pause to take in panoramic views of the limestone karsts rising dramatically in the distance. This peaceful interlude offers a welcome respite before the next stop on the day’s adventure.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Enjoying the Buffet Lunch With Vietnamese Cuisine

Having worked up an appetite from the scenic cycling tour, travelers now relish the opportunity to indulge in a bountiful buffet lunch featuring an array of authentic Vietnamese cuisine.

The spread includes local specialties like succulent goat meat, freshly caught fish, and a variety of poultry dishes. Vegetarian options are also available, catering to diverse dietary needs.

Diners can savor the flavors of Vietnam, from the bold and aromatic to the delicately balanced. This hearty meal provides the energy needed for the next leg of the adventure – the serene boat ride through Tam Coc.

Exploring Tam Coc, "Ha Long Bay on Land"

Next, travelers embark on a 1.5-hour bamboo boat trip through the serene Tam Coc, often referred to as the "Ha Long Bay on land."

Gliding quietly along the calm, winding river, they’re surrounded by the dramatic limestone karst formations that rise dramatically from the lush, emerald-green rice paddies. The unique landscape provides a peaceful and picturesque experience, as the boatmen propel the vessels using only their feet.

After the boat ride, visitors have the opportunity to climb the 500 steps up to the Mua Cave viewpoint, which offers panoramic vistas of the breathtaking Tam Coc region.

Climbing the 500 Steps to Mua Cave

After the serene boat ride, visitors are rewarded with the opportunity to climb the 500 steps leading up to the Mua Cave viewpoint. The challenging ascent offers stunning panoramic vistas of the Tam Coc landscape, with the winding rivers and limestone karst formations creating a breathtaking backdrop. Though the climb may be strenuous, the stunning views from the top make it well worth the effort.

| Difficulty | Duration | Highlights | Recommendation |

| — | — | — | — |

| Moderate to Challenging | 30-45 minutes | Panoramic views of Tam Coc | Wear comfortable shoes and bring water |

The Mua Cave viewpoint is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Tam Coc region, providing an unparalleled perspective on this beautiful and unique landscape.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes a private car or limousine bus with an experienced driver, as well as an English-speaking guide.

Free WiFi, water, and a buffet lunch featuring Vietnamese cuisine like goat meat, fish, and vegetarian options are provided.

Entrance fees, cycling activity, and use of hats, umbrellas, and raincoats are also included.

However, drinks during lunch are excluded.

Drinks during lunch are not included in the tour package.

The trip isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues, wheelchair users, babies under 1, or people over 95.

Prohibited items include luggage, alcohol, and drugs.

Guests should bring comfortable clothes, a sun hat, camera, and sunscreen.

Since You Asked

Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required for the Tour?

There’s no minimum number of participants required for this tour. The tour operates regardless of the group size, so you can book as an individual or with a larger group.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Trip?

The tour does not allow participants to bring their own food and drinks. Lunch is included, and alcohol and drugs are prohibited items. Bringing additional luggage or large bags is also not permitted.

Is There an Option to Customize the Itinerary Based on My Preferences?

The tour operator offers a fixed itinerary, but they may be able to accommodate minor customizations upon request. Guests should inquire about customization options when booking the tour.

Can I Book This Tour for a Private Group?

Yes, this tour can be booked for a private group. The provider offers private car or limousine bus options, allowing you to customize the experience for your group’s preferences and schedule.

Do I Need to Have Any Special Skills or Experience for the Activities?

No special skills or experience are required for the activities on this tour. The cycling and bamboo boat ride are suitable for most participants, and the guide provides instructions. Climbing the steps to Mua Cave may require some fitness, but is an optional activity.

Final Words

This exhilarating full-day trip from Hanoi offers a diverse array of experiences – from exploring Vietnam’s ancient capital Hoa Lu to cycling through picturesque countryside villages and taking a serene boat ride amidst limestone karsts. The highlight is conquering the 500 steps to Mua Cave for breathtaking panoramic views, making this adventure truly unforgettable. With convenient hotel pickup, a delicious buffet lunch, and an expert guide, it’s an excellent way to take in the beauty and history of northern Vietnam.

You can check if your dates are available here: