From Hanoi: Ninh Binh, Hoa Lu, Tam Coc and Mua Cave

Nestled just south of Hanoi, the province of Ninh Binh captivates visitors with its breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. This comprehensive day tour takes travelers on a journey through the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, the serene Tam Coc waterways, and the challenging ascent to the Mua Cave viewpoint. From centuries-old temples to awe-inspiring limestone karsts, this itinerary promises an unforgettable experience for nature and history enthusiasts alike. With a mix of exploration, stunning scenery, and a touch of adventure, the day’s activities showcase Ninh Binh’s diverse charms, leaving one curious to delve deeper into this captivating destination.

Key Points

• This tour offers a comprehensive experience of Ninh Binh’s landscapes, including visits to the historic Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, a boat trip along Tam Coc’s waterways, and a climb to the Mua Cave viewpoint.
• The tour is priced at €41.19 per person, with a duration of 9-9.5 hours, and includes hotel pickup, an English-speaking guide, mineral water, and a buffet lunch.
• The itinerary highlights include exploring the remnants of the 10th-century Dinh and Early Le dynasties, enjoying scenic views during the boat trip, and capturing panoramic vistas from the Mua Cave viewpoint.
• The tour provides convenient transportation, with a bus journey from Hanoi taking approximately 100 minutes and 16 drop-off locations available in Hanoi for the return journey.
• Inclusions cover hotel pickup, an English-speaking guide, mineral water, a buffet lunch, and entrance fees, while exclusions include beverages, tips, and items such as pets, alcohol, and drugs.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This tour offers a comprehensive experience of the stunning landscapes and historical sites around Ninh Binh, with prices starting at just €41.19 per person.

It lasts 9-9.5 hours and features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Guests can reserve their spot without upfront payment.

The tour includes hotel pickup, an English-speaking guide, mineral water, a Vietnamese buffet lunch, and all entrance fees for the main attractions like Hoa Lu, Tam Coc, and Mua Cave.

Travelers can choose from 16 convenient drop-off locations in Hanoi upon return.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour’s itinerary highlights include a visit to the historic Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, dating back to the 10th century.

Guests will also enjoy a 1.5-hour eco boat trip along the picturesque Tam Coc waterways.

The tour includes a stop at the Mua Cave, where visitors can climb 500 steps to the top for panoramic views.

A buffet lunch featuring local Vietnamese dishes is provided.

The tour offers convenient pickup and drop-off options at 16 locations in Hanoi.

Plus, you will have a chance to take a break at a local café and in Ninh Binh.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour begins with a bus journey from Hanoi, which takes approximately 100 minutes. Guests can be picked up from their hotels in the Old Quarter or any specified location in the city. Once at the destination, there are 16 drop-off locations available for the return journey. Along the way, the tour includes a 20-minute break at a local café and a 45-minute stop in Ninh Binh.

Transportation	Pickup	Drop-off
Bus from Hanoi	Old Quarter hotels	16 locations
Duration: 100 min	Any specified location
Stops: Café, Ninh Binh

Inclusions and Exclusions

Included in the tour are hotel pickup, a professional English-speaking guide, one bottle of mineral water per person, a buffet lunch featuring Vietnamese dishes, and entrance fees for Hoa Lu, Tam Coc, and Mua Cave.

However, the tour excludes beverages and tips for the guide, driver, and boat rower. Guests are advised to bring a sun hat, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and cash.

Pets, alcohol, and drugs aren’t allowed. Participants with special dietary requirements should notify the operator.

Mobile contact information is required for booking confirmation. Visitors should also note the dress code for temples – no shorts are permitted.

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Important Information and Recommendations

According to the information provided, this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

Travelers should bring a sun hat, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes. Cash is recommended, as pets, alcohol, and drugs aren’t allowed.

Guests with special dietary requirements should notify the operator in advance. Participants will need to provide their mobile contact information for booking confirmation.

It’s important to note that there’s a dress code for the temples, and no shorts are permitted.

For non-boat participants, optional activities are available.

Exploring Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, the 10th-century seat of the Dinh and Early Le dynasties, offers visitors a captivating glimpse into Vietnam’s storied past.

As part of the day tour, guests explore the remnants of this historic capital, including the former palace grounds and ancient temples.

The site’s pagodas and shrines showcase traditional Vietnamese architecture, providing insight into the region’s cultural heritage.

Visitors can wander through the tranquil grounds, imagining the bustling royal court that once occupied this serene landscape.

The tour allows travelers to step back in time and gain a deeper appreciation for Vietnam’s rich history and enduring legacy.

Boat Trip Through Tam Coc

The boat trip through Tam Coc, a highlight of the day tour, allows visitors to enjoy the region’s stunning natural beauty. During the 1.5-hour journey, participants glide silently along the Ngo Dong River, surrounded by limestone karst formations and lush rice paddies. The experience is enhanced by the skilled boatmen who expertly navigate the narrow waterways using only their oars.

Boat Trip Specifics
Duration	1.5 hours
Boat Propulsion	Oars	No motors
Scenery	Limestone Karst	Rice Paddies

While on the water, travelers have the opportunity to take in the serene landscape and capture stunning photographs to commemorate their journey through this natural wonder.

Climbing to Mua Cave Viewpoint

After the serene boat ride, visitors embark on the challenging ascent to the Mua Cave viewpoint. Climbing over 500 steps, they’re rewarded with panoramic vistas over the stunning Ninh Binh landscape.

The steep staircase winds through the verdant mountains, offering a unique perspective of the karst formations and winding rivers below. Though the climb can be strenuous, the breathtaking views from the top make it a must-do on the tour.

Visitors can take their time exploring the scenic overlook before descending back down and continuing on to the next stop of the day’s itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Modify the Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?

The tour operator offers some flexibility to modify the itinerary based on personal preferences. Travelers can discuss their interests with the guide and adjust the schedule to suit their needs, within the overall tour structure.

Do You Offer Alternative Transportation Options Besides the Bus?

Yes, the tour operator offers alternative transportation options besides the bus, such as private car or private van. Guests can choose the transportation that best suits their preferences and needs during the booking process.

Is There a Discount for Booking as a Group?

Yes, there is a group discount available for this tour. Customers who book 4 or more tickets can receive a 10% discount off the total price per person.

Can I Purchase Additional Food or Drinks During the Tour?

Yes, you can purchase additional food or drinks during the tour. The tour includes one bottle of mineral water per person, but you’re free to buy other beverages and snacks at the stops along the way.

Are There Any Restrictions on the Types of Cameras or Equipment Allowed?

Visitors are allowed to bring cameras and photography equipment, but cannot use tripods or drone cameras on the tour. All standard handheld cameras and phones are permitted.

Recap

This comprehensive day tour from Hanoi offers a captivating glimpse into the rich history and natural beauty of Ninh Binh. From the ancient capital of Hoa Lu to the serene Tam Coc waterways and the challenging climb to the Mua Cave viewpoint, this adventure showcases the region’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage. It’s a must-experience journey for nature and history enthusiasts alike.

You can check if your dates are available here: