From Hanoi: Hoa Lu – Trang An-Mua Cave With Buffet Lunch

Nestled just south of Hanoi, Ninh Binh Province boasts a treasure trove of natural and cultural wonders. This day trip promises an immersive experience, uncovering the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, navigating the serene Trang An waterways, and scaling the heights of Mua Cave. With a knowledgeable guide, delectable cuisine, and seamless transportation, the journey offers a well-rounded adventure into Vietnam’s captivating heartland. What awaits beyond the bustling streets of Hanoi might just surprise you.

Key Points

• This day-long excursion from Hanoi to Ninh Binh Province includes visits to Hoa Lu, Trang An, and Mua Cave, with a buffet lunch.
• The tour is priced at $52.05 per person and includes a 10-hour tour with a friendly guide.
• Travelers can expect moderate walking and climbing, especially at Mua Cave, and the tour is not suitable for children under 8 or those with mobility issues.
• Advance booking is recommended to secure spots and take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
• Comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunscreen are recommended for the trip, and travelers should prepare for potential itinerary changes due to unforeseen circumstances.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Trip Overview

This trip is a day-long excursion from Hanoi to explore the historical and scenic wonders of Ninh Binh Province.

Priced from $52.05 per person, the 10-hour tour includes visiting Hoa Lu, Trang An, and Mua Cave. Travelers can freely cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour offers a "reserve now, pay later" booking option.

Pickup and drop-off occur at St. Joseph Cathedral in Hanoi, with activities such as cycling, boat trips, and hiking to panoramic viewpoints. A buffet lunch at Ninh Binh Excursion Restaurant is also included.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with pickup from St. Joseph Cathedral in Hanoi. Visitors will first explore the ancient capital of Vietnam, Hoa Lu, followed by a leisurely cycle through the local village. After a buffet lunch at Ninh Binh Excursion Restaurant, the highlights continue with a 2-hour boat trip through the serene Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex. The tour culminates with a hike to the top of Mua Cave, offering panoramic views over the lush landscapes. At the end of the day, guests are returned to the starting point at St. Joseph Cathedral in Hanoi.

| Activity | Duration |

| — | — |

| Visit Hoa Lu | – |

| Cycle through village | – |

| Buffet lunch | – |

| Boat trip in Trang An | 2 hours |

| Hike to Mua Cave | 1.5 hours |

What’s Included

A friendly guide accompanies travelers throughout the day.

The trip includes several highlights, such as a buffet lunch featuring local dishes like goat meat, spring rolls, fish, chicken, fried rice, vegetable salad, and vegetarian options.

A delectable buffet lunch showcasing local specialties like goat, spring rolls, seafood, and vegetarian options.

Visitors also enjoy a 2-hour boat trip through the scenic Trang An Landscape Complex.

Plus, the tour provides opportunities for cycling around a local village and visiting the historic Hoa Lu and the Mua Cave.

Short breaks are scheduled during the day to allow participants to rest and recharge.

Important Information

Comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunscreen are recommended for this trip.

Participants should expect a moderate amount of walking and climbing, especially at Mua Cave. The tour isn’t suitable for children under 8, individuals with mobility issues, or those afraid of heights.

Visitors should come prepared, as the itinerary may change due to unforeseen circumstances. Despite the physical demands, the breathtaking views and immersive local experiences make this day trip a must-do for adventurous travelers visiting Hanoi.

Advance booking is recommended to secure your spot and take advantage of the flexible cancellation policy.

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Tips for the Trip

Firstly, visitors should wear comfortable shoes well-suited for walking and cycling during the trip.

Sun protection is crucial, so bringing a hat and sunscreen is recommended. Staying hydrated by bringing water is also essential, as the tour involves moderate physical activity.

Though the itinerary is well-planned, travelers should be prepared for potential changes. Following these tips will ensure a more enjoyable and comfortable experience exploring the historical sites of Hoa Lu, the scenic landscapes of Trang An, and the challenging climb to the top of Mua Cave.

A Visit to Hoa Lu

The tour begins with a visit to Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam. Guests explore the historic site, walking through the remains of the royal palaces and temples from the 10th century.

The guide shares insights into the rich history of this former seat of power. Visitors can imagine the grandeur of the ancient capital as they wander the grounds.

After the visit, the group cycles through the surrounding rural village, seeing the local way of life. This cultural experience provides a glimpse into Vietnam’s storied past and present.

Exploring Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex

After visiting the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, the tour then takes guests to the stunning Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex.

Here, travelers embark on a 2-hour boat trip through the serene landscape, passing by limestone karsts, rivers, and valleys.

The boat ride offers a chance to admire the breathtaking natural beauty and to spot local wildlife like herons and monkeys.

As the boat navigates the winding waterways, guests gain a unique perspective of the region’s geography and ecosystem.

This serene boat excursion is a highlight of the day trip from Hanoi.

Hiking to the Top of Mua Cave

Following the serene boat trip through Trang An, the next stop on the itinerary is Mua Cave.

Adventurous travelers will embark on a 1.5-hour hike up the steep steps to the top of Mua Cave. Though challenging, the climb offers stunning panoramic views of the lush Ninh Binh landscape.

Adventurous travelers will embark on a 1.5-hour hike up the steep steps to the top of Mua Cave, rewarded with stunning panoramic views.

Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a moderate level of physical exertion. Those with mobility issues or a fear of heights may find the hike unsuitable.

Once at the summit, travelers can capture breathtaking photos and enjoy the peaceful serenity of the scenic overlook.

Since You Asked

Is Transportation From Hanoi to the Starting Point Included?

The transportation from Hanoi to the starting point of the trip is included in the price. The trip includes pickup and drop-off at the St Joseph Cathedral in Hanoi.

Can Vegetarian or Other Dietary Restrictions Be Accommodated?

Yes, the buffet lunch includes vegetarian options. The tour can accommodate other dietary restrictions as well, such as halal or gluten-free, if you notify the tour operator in advance. This ensures you’ll have suitable meal choices during the trip.

Is There an Option to Extend the Trip Duration or Add More Activities?

Yes, the tour can be customized to extend the duration or add more activities. Travelers can inquire with the tour operator about options to personalize the itinerary to suit their interests and preferences.

What Is the Group Size Limit for This Tour?

The group size limit for this tour is not specified. However, it is a day trip to Ninh Binh Province, so the group size is likely small to provide a personalized experience. Booking in advance is recommended to secure availability.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Boat Trip or Hiking?

For the boat trip and hiking, travelers don’t need any special equipment. However, they should wear comfortable shoes, bring a hat, sunscreen, and water to stay protected and hydrated during the activities.

Final Words

This day trip from Hanoi to Ninh Binh Province offers a captivating blend of historical, cultural, and natural wonders. Visitors can explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, marvel at the scenic beauty of Trang An, and conquer the breathtaking views from Mua Cave, all while savoring a delicious local buffet lunch and enjoying a relaxing boat ride. With an affordable price tag and a knowledgeable guide, this tour provides an immersive and comfortable experience of Vietnam’s rich heritage and stunning landscapes.

You can check if your dates are available here: