From Hanoi: 2-Day Ninh Binh Journey With Homestay and Meals

Nestled in the heart of Northern Vietnam, the Ninh Binh province beckons adventurers with its captivating landscapes and rich cultural heritage. This 2-day journey from Hanoi promises to immerse travelers in the serene beauty of the region, from the ancient capital of Hoa Lu to the serene Tam Coc waterways. With a guided exploration of key sites, comfortable homestay accommodations, and delectable local cuisine, this tour offers a well-rounded experience that allows visitors to truly connect with the essence of Vietnamese culture. Whether you’re seeking a respite from the bustling city or a chance to discover the country’s natural wonders, this Ninh Binh journey promises to leave a lasting impression.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best 2 Day Tours In Ninh Binh.

Key Points

• This 2-day tour from Hanoi takes you to the scenic Ninh Binh region, known as "Ha Long Bay on land," with a mix of cycling, boat rides, and culture.
• The tour includes transportation, meals, one night’s accommodation at a bungalow or homestay, and a variety of activities like exploring Hoa Lu, the ancient Vietnamese capital.
• Highlights include a 1.5-hour bamboo boat ride in Tam Coc, hiking to the panoramic viewpoint at Mua Cave, and visiting the largest pagoda in Southeast Asia, Bai Dinh Pagoda.
• The tour offers a balance of cultural exploration, outdoor activities, and scenic natural landscapes, providing an authentic experience of Vietnam’s countryside.
• The tour’s cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and special requests for dietary requirements can be accommodated.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The 2-Day Ninh Binh Journey with Homestay and Meals tour is priced from $145.75 per person.

Travelers can reserve their spot with no upfront payment and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour lasts 2 days and is led by an English-speaking guide. Hotel pickup is included, and the tour covers popular destinations like Hoa Lu, Tam Coc, Mua Cave, Bai Dinh Pagoda, and Trang An.

Inclusions encompass transportation, entrance fees, cycling, meals, and one night’s accommodation in a bungalow or homestay.

Travelers with food allergies or special requests should notify the tour operator in advance.

Pickup and Departure

Pickup by the guide kicks off this Ninh Binh journey at 7:25-8:00 AM from the hotel lobby.

After a brief 15-20 minute stop, the group arrives at Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s ancient capital from 968 to 1010. Here, they’ll explore the local village by bicycle.

The afternoon continues with a 1.5-hour bamboo boat ride through the scenic Tam Coc, known as "Ha Long Bay on land."

Later, visitors climb 500 steps up Mua Cave (Dragon Peak) for panoramic views.

At 5 PM, the group checks into their bungalow or homestay, where they’ll enjoy a delicious dinner and an evening walk around Tam Coc.

Exploring Hoa Lu and Cycling

Arriving at Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s ancient capital from 968 to 1010, the group explores the local village by cycling.

They pedal through narrow alleys, past historic buildings, and alongside rice paddies. The guide points out significant landmarks and shares stories about the region’s rich history.

Cycling offers an intimate and immersive way to experience the local way of life. The group marvels at the well-preserved architecture and the friendly interactions with villagers going about their daily routines.

This cycling activity provides a unique glimpse into Vietnam’s past, blending cultural exploration with gentle physical activity amidst the scenic countryside.

Bamboo Boat Ride in Tam Coc

After the cycling exploration of Hoa Lu, the group makes their way to the famous Tam Coc region. Here, they board traditional bamboo boats for a 1.5-hour journey through the tranquil river system. The boats glide silently past towering limestone cliffs, lush rice paddies, and picturesque rural landscapes. It’s no wonder Tam Coc is nicknamed "Ha Long Bay on land." The serene experience allows travelers to enjoy the natural beauty of the region.

Feature	Description
Boat Type	Traditional Bamboo Boat
Duration	1.5 Hours
Scenery	Limestone Cliffs, Rice Paddies, Rural Landscapes
Nickname	"Ha Long Bay on Land"
Atmosphere	Serene, Tranquil, Immersive

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Mua Cave and Panoramic Views

After visiting the Tam Coc region, the group makes its way to the Mua Cave, located nearby.

This attraction is known for its panoramic views from the top of the Dragon Mountain. Guests climb up 500 steps to reach the summit, where they’re rewarded with a stunning panorama of the limestone karsts, rivers, and lush greenery that define the Ninh Binh landscape.

The challenging hike is well worth the effort, as the views from the top are truly breathtaking. Visitors can take in the scenery and capture memorable photographs before descending back down to explore the cave itself, which features impressive rock formations and a serene atmosphere.

Bungalow/Homestay Check-in and Dinner

As the sun starts to set, the group makes its way to the cozy bungalow or homestay where they’ll be spending the night. Here, they’ll have the chance to unwind and enjoy the local way of life:

• Settling into their charming accommodations, which offer a blend of traditional Vietnamese design and modern comforts.

• Enjoying a delicious set dinner prepared by the homestay hosts, featuring authentic regional cuisine.

• Taking an evening stroll around the tranquil Tam Coc area, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.

• Interacting with the friendly homestay hosts, learning about their daily lives and cultural traditions.

• Exploring the scenic surroundings of the bungalow or homestay before retiring for the night.

Bai Dinh Pagoda and Its Highlights

The next stop on the journey is the impressive Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia.

Visitors will be in awe of its notable features, including 500 stone-arhat statues, a 36-ton bronze bell, and a 100-ton Buddha statue.

Exploring this expansive religious complex allows travelers to enjoy Vietnamese Buddhist culture and architecture.

After a morning of sightseeing, the group will enjoy a 5-star style buffet lunch with vegetarian options before continuing on to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Trang An for a boat trip through its unique tunnel cave system.

Trang An Boat Trip and Return to Hanoi

Following the Bai Dinh Pagoda visit, the tour proceeds to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Trang An. Guests will embark on a 2-hour boat trip through the unique tunnel cave system, taking in the stunning landscapes.

The Trang An boat ride offers a chance to:

• Explore the serene and picturesque river scenery
• Navigate through dramatic limestone karst formations
• Discover hidden caves and grottoes along the way
• Observe local wildlife, including birds and monkeys
• Experience the tranquility and beauty of this natural wonder

After the Trang An excursion, the tour returns to Hanoi, with drop-off at hotels around 6:30 PM, marking the end of this memorable 2-day Ninh Binh journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Fit Do I Need to Be for the 500-Step Climb at Mua Cave?

The 500-step climb at Mua Cave doesn’t require exceptional fitness, but visitors should be reasonably active and able to handle moderate inclines. Most travelers can complete the ascent, taking breaks as needed, to enjoy the panoramic views at the top.

Can I Bring My Own Food or Snacks During the Tour?

Participants can bring their own snacks and food during the tour, but the tour includes 2 buffet lunches and 1 set dinner. Dietary restrictions or special requests should be notified to the tour operator in advance.

What Should I Pack for the Overnight Homestay Experience?

For the overnight homestay, it’s recommended to pack comfortable clothing, any necessary medications, toiletries, a swimsuit if you plan to swim, and any personal items you’ll need. Bring a light jacket or sweater in case it’s cool at night.

Is There an Option to Upgrade the Accommodation to a Hotel?

Yes, there’s an option to upgrade the accommodation to a hotel. Guests can choose to stay in a hotel instead of a homestay for an additional fee, providing more comfort and privacy during the 2-day Ninh Binh journey.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for This Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions or requirements. It’s suitable for travelers of all ages, though children under 12 may require additional supervision. The tour is family-friendly and caters to diverse preferences.

Recap

This 2-day Ninh Binh journey from Hanoi offers travelers a chance to enjoy Vietnam’s stunning landscapes, rich history, and authentic culture. With a mix of guided sightseeing, outdoor activities, and comfortable accommodations, the tour provides an unforgettable experience at a reasonable price. From exploring ancient capital sites to enjoying serene boat rides and panoramic views, this journey showcases the best of Ninh Binh’s natural and cultural wonders.

You can check if your dates are available here: