From Hanoi: Hoa Lu, Tam Coc & Mua Cave Full-Day Trip

Exploring the stunning landscapes beyond Hanoi is a must for any visitor to Vietnam. This full-day excursion takes travelers on a journey through the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, the serene waters of Tam Coc, and the challenging climb up Mua Cave. With the convenience of included transportation and an expert guide, adventurers can enjoy the natural beauty and cultural heritage of this captivating region. What awaits at the top of Mua Cave is a revelation not to be missed.

Key Points

• A full-day trip from Hanoi to explore Ninh Binh Province, including visits to the ancient capital Hoa Lu, scenic Tam Coc, and the iconic Mua Cave.
• Includes transportation by air-conditioned bus, guided tours, boat cruise through limestone caves, and a climb for panoramic views.
• Lunch, entrance fees, and all transportation are covered in the tour.
• Not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, and an extra charge applies on public holidays.
• Recommended to wear comfortable shoes, bring sun protection, and prepare for a moderate level of physical activity.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This full-day trip takes visitors on an immersive exploration of Ninh Binh Province, located approximately 90 kilometers south of Hanoi.

Guests will be picked up from the Hanoi Opera House and travel by air-conditioned bus to discover the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, the scenic Tam Coc, and the challenging Mua Cave.

Guests will be transported by air-conditioned bus to explore Hoa Lu, Tam Coc, and the challenging Mua Cave.

The day includes guided tours, a boat cruise through limestone caves, and a climb up the Mua Cave steps for panoramic views.

With included lunch, entrance fees, and transportation, this comprehensive tour offers an unforgettable experience in one of Vietnam’s most breathtaking regions.

Itinerary and Activities

After getting picked up from the Hanoi Opera House, the driver and guide take guests on the 90-kilometer journey south to Ninh Binh Province.

First, they visit the Hoa Lu temples of the Dinh and Le Dynasties and explore the ancient capital for an hour.

Then, they relax over lunch at a restaurant in Tam Coc.

Next, they embark on a 1.5-hour boat cruise through three caves and 30 minutes of sightseeing.

Finally, they climb nearly 500 stone steps at Mua Cave for panoramic views and 30 minutes of additional sightseeing before returning to Hanoi around 7:30 PM.

Inclusions

The tour includes pickup and drop-off by air-conditioned bus, as well as a professional English-speaking guide.

Lunch is provided at a restaurant in Tam Coc. The entrance and boat fees are included. Plus, a biking option and tax/travel insurance are covered.

This tour offers the following benefits:

1. Hassle-free transportation

2. Knowledgeable guide to enhance the experience

3. Delicious local lunch

4. Covered admission and activity costs

The inclusions ensure a seamless and enjoyable day exploring the historical and natural wonders of Hoa Lu, Tam Coc, and Mua Cave.

Important Information

Two important things to note about this tour.

First, it’s not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users due to the physical activities involved.

Second, there’s an extra charge of 100,000 VND per person on public holidays.

Visitors should wear comfortable shoes, bring a hat, camera, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes.

Pets, smoking, and fireworks aren’t allowed.

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Booking Requirements

To book this tour, visitors need to provide their full information, including their full name, year of birth, passport number, WhatsApp/SMS phone number, and pickup address. This ensures the tour operator can properly coordinate the pickup and logistics.

Visitors must provide their full name, year of birth, passport number, WhatsApp/SMS phone number, and pickup address to book this tour.

Plus, guests should:

1. Check availability for preferred start times.

2. Reserve their spot to secure their place.

3. Note the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users.

4. Be aware of the additional charge on public holidays.

Getting to the Meeting Point

Visitors can easily get to the meeting point at the Hanoi Opera House, which serves as the pickup location for the Hoa Lu, Tam Coc & Mua Cave full-day trip.

The opera house is a prominent landmark in the heart of Hanoi, making it a convenient and accessible meeting spot. Participants can arrive at the opera house by taxi, ride-sharing, or public transportation.

Once at the meeting point, the tour guide and driver will be ready to greet and transport the group to the stunning natural landscapes of Ninh Binh province, about 90km south of Hanoi.

What to Expect on the Tour

After being picked up from the Hanoi Opera House, guests embark on a scenic 90-minute drive to the province of Ninh Binh.

Guests embark on a scenic 90-minute drive from Hanoi Opera House to the province of Ninh Binh.

At Hoa Lu, they explore the ancient capital and temples of the Dinh and Le Dynasties.

Lunch is enjoyed at a restaurant in Tam Coc, followed by a 1.5-hour boat cruise through three caves and sightseeing.

The tour then heads to Mua Cave, where guests climb nearly 500 stone steps for panoramic views.

The day concludes with a return to Hanoi, arriving around 7:30 PM.

Key activities include:

1. Visiting Hoa Lu’s historic sites

2. Relaxing on a boat cruise in Tam Coc

3. Climbing Mua Cave’s viewpoint steps

4. Enjoying a local lunch

Additional Tips and Recommendations

Although the tour includes a comprehensive itinerary, visitors may consider a few additional tips to enhance their experience.

Bring a waterproof bag or cover for the boat ride to protect belongings. Wear lightweight, breathable clothing and comfortable walking shoes. Carry extra snacks and water, as the tour involves moderate physical activity.

It’s also advisable to bring sun protection like hats and sunscreen. While the tour company arranges lunch, guests with dietary restrictions may want to pack their own meals.

Lastly, be prepared to climb nearly 500 steps at Mua Cave, requiring a moderate level of fitness.

Since You Asked

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

Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour, but a provided lunch is included. Bringing additional snacks or beverages is allowed, though the tour operators don’t provide storage or refrigeration for them.

Is There an Option to Extend or Shorten the Tour Duration?

The tour typically lasts 7 hours, but it’s not possible to extend or shorten the duration. The itinerary and activities are fixed, so the tour can’t be customized to alter the length.

Do I Need to Purchase Tickets for the Attractions Beforehand?

No, tickets for the attractions are included in the tour price. The tour package covers pickup, transportation, guide, entrance fees, and lunch, so there’s no need to purchase anything separately beforehand.

Can I Customize the Itinerary or Activities to My Preferences?

The tour itinerary and activities can’t be customized, but you can choose the biking option. The tour provider handles the transportation, entrance fees, and meals, so you don’t need to purchase any tickets beforehand.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography or Videography During the Tour?

Participants can take photos and videos throughout the tour, though smoking, pets, and fireworks are not allowed. Visitors should bring comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunscreen to enjoy the scenic views and activities.

Final Words

This full-day tour from Hanoi immerses you in Vietnam’s stunning natural beauty. You’ll visit ancient temples, cruise through limestone caves, and climb to panoramic viewpoints. With hassle-free transportation, a delicious lunch, and a knowledgeable guide, it’s an efficient way to experience the highlights of Hoa Lu, Tam Coc, and Mua Cave. Whether you’re seeking history, nature, or breathtaking vistas, this tour delivers an unforgettable day in northern Vietnam.

You can check if your dates are available here: