Ninh Binh’s natural wonders await adventurous travelers on this comprehensive day tour. Explore ancient capitals, hike to stunning viewpoints, and drift along serene waterways – all for an affordable price. With an expert local guide, you’ll uncover the region’s rich history and diverse landscapes. Whether you’re seeking culture or outdoor thrills, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. What makes this tour stand out, and why should you consider adding it to your Vietnam itinerary?
Key Points
- This 9-hour tour from Ninh Binh offers visits to the Bich Dong Pagoda, Mua Cave, Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, and Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex.
- The tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, an English-speaking guide, water, and lunch at a local restaurant.
- Highlights include a guided tour of Bich Dong Pagoda, an optional hike at Mua Cave, and exploring the Dinh and Le king temples at Hoa Lu.
- Additional fees apply for Mua Cave entrance (100,000 VND) and Trang An boat ticket (250,000 VND).
- Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, and a camera are recommended for this tour to enhance the overall experience.
Tour Overview
This Tour Overview provides a high-level overview of the "From Ninh Binh: Hoa Lu, Trang An, Mua Cave, & Bich Dong Tour".
Priced from $28.87 per person, the 9-hour tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, an English-speaking guide, water, and lunch.
A 9-hour tour priced from $28.87 per person, including hotel pickup/drop-off, an English-speaking guide, water, and lunch.
Availability is limited, so booking early is advised. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers can reserve their spot without upfront payment.
The tour visits Bich Dong Pagoda, Mua Cave, Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, and the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, with optional activities carrying additional fees.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Ninh Binh.
Itinerary Highlights
The tour picks up travelers in Ninh Bình, with the first stop being Bich Dong Pagoda, where guests enjoy a guided tour and sightseeing for about an hour.
Next, they can visit Mua Cave for an optional hike up 500 steps to enjoy scenic views.
The tour then heads to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, where visitors explore the Dinh and Le king temples and learn about Vietnamese history.
After a 1.5-hour lunch at a local restaurant, the final stop is the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, where travelers can opt for a bamboo rafting adventure to explore caves and landscapes.
Inclusions and Fees
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, water on the van, and a lunch at a local restaurant.
However, there are additional fees not covered. Visitors must pay 100,000 VND per person to enter Mua Cave and 250,000 VND per person for the Trang An boat ticket. These fees aren’t included in the tour price.
Travelers should also budget for personal expenses. The tour provides a comprehensive experience with the major highlights, but visitors should factor in the additional costs for the optional activities they wish to partake in.
Customer Reviews
What do the customer reviews say about this Ninh Binh tour?
Based on 202 reviews, the tour receives an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5. Customers praise the knowledgeable and friendly guide, as well as the comfortable transportation.
The value for money is also highlighted as a positive. However, a few reviewers mention that the guide was slightly late.
The value for money is praised, though a few reviewers noted the guide was slightly tardy.
The stunning scenery and unique experiences at Mua Cave and Trang An are consistently noted as highlights.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyImportant Information
What should visitors bring on this Ninh Binh tour? Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, camera, and sunscreen are essential. Being prepared for the day’s activities and weather conditions will ensure a more enjoyable experience.
| Item | Importance | Reason |
| — | — | — |
| Comfortable Shoes | High | For hiking and walking in comfort |
| Sunglasses | High | To protect eyes from glare |
| Sun Hat | High | Provide shade and prevent sunburn |
| Camera | Moderate | Capture memorable moments |
| Sunscreen | High | Prevent sunburn and skin damage |
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, so visitors can focus on experiencing the stunning landscapes and rich history of the region.
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Exploring Bich Dong Pagoda
One of the first stops on the tour is the captivating Bich Dong Pagoda. Nestled in the lush, verdant landscape, this ancient Buddhist temple complex dates back to the 15th century.
Visitors embark on a guided tour, exploring the intricate architecture and learning about the pagoda’s significant cultural and historical heritage. The highlight is the ascent up the steps carved into the limestone cliff, leading to breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains and rivers.
The tranquil atmosphere and spiritual ambiance make this a memorable experience, offering a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich religious traditions.
Discovering Mua Cave
After exploring the tranquil Bich Dong Pagoda, the tour continues to the captivating Mua Cave.
An optional visit, Mua Cave offers spectacular views from the top of its 500 steps. Hikers are rewarded with panoramic vistas of the Ngo Dong River and the surrounding karst landscape.
The trek up can be challenging, but the stunning panorama from the summit makes it worthwhile. Visitors who choose to visit Mua Cave must pay an additional entrance fee of 100,000 VND per person.
The trek up Mua Cave may be challenging, but the stunning panorama from the summit makes the additional 100,000 VND entrance fee worthwhile.
This unique geological formation is a highlight of the tour, providing breathtaking scenery and a chance to appreciate the natural wonders of Ninh Binh.
Taking in Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
The tour now moves on to the historic Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, the former seat of power for the Dinh and Le dynasties in the 10th century.
The guide leads visitors through:
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The Dinh Temple, honoring the founder of the Dinh Dynasty who united Vietnam after a period of chaos.
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The Le Temple, commemorating the Le Dynasty that followed the Dinh and laid the foundation for modern Vietnam.
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Scenic landscapes and historical artifacts that immerse guests in the rich heritage of this ancient capital.
Exploring Hoa Lu provides a glimpse into Vietnam’s formative years as a unified nation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Time Does the Tour Typically End?
According to the tour overview, the tour typically arrives back at Ninh Binh around 17:15, or approximately 5:15 PM. This indicates the tour has a duration of approximately 9 hours, as stated in the tour details.
Is the Tour Suitable for Children?
The tour is suitable for children, though some activities like the Mua Cave hike may be challenging for young kids. Families should consider the physical demands and plan accordingly to ensure everyone enjoys the experience.
Can I Request a Private Tour?
Yes, you can request a private tour. Many tour providers offer private options for this itinerary, allowing for a more personalized experience. Private tours may have an additional cost but provide more flexibility and exclusivity.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Included Lunch?
The tour company accommodates dietary restrictions for the included lunch, such as vegetarian, vegan, or halal options. Guests should notify the company of any dietary needs when booking the tour.
Do I Need to Bring My Own Water and Snacks?
No, water is provided on the van, but you may want to bring your own snacks. The tour includes lunch at a local restaurant, so you don’t need to worry about packing extra meals.
Recap
This tour offers an exceptional value, providing a comprehensive exploration of Ninh Binh’s natural and historical wonders. Visitors can expect a well-organized itinerary, knowledgeable guides, and a hassle-free experience. With highlights like the stunning Bich Dong Pagoda, the challenging Mua Cave hike, and the picturesque Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to enjoy the beauty and rich heritage of Northern Vietnam.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Tours in Ninh Binh
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