Ninh Binh province boasts stunning natural scenery, and this 12-hour group tour from Hanoi offers a chance to experience it firsthand. Visitors can explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, indulge in a 5-star lunch, and choose between boat rides at Tam Coc or Trang An. The tour culminates with a hike up Mua Cave for panoramic vistas. Whether one’s interest lies in history, nature, or simply taking in breathtaking landscapes, this comprehensive itinerary promises an unforgettable day.
Key Points
- This group tour in Ninh Binh province, known as "Ha Long Bay on land," provides a 12-hour experience priced from £43.94 per person.
- The itinerary includes round-trip transfers from Hanoi, an English-speaking guide, and activities such as exploring Hoa Lu, boat rides, and hiking Mua Cave.
- The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for participants.
- The morning activities include a cycling tour in Hoa Lu and a 5-star lunch with panoramic views and vegetarian options.
- The afternoon offers a choice between Tam Coc or Trang An boat rides, followed by a hike to Lying Dragon Mountain in Mua Cave.
Tour Overview
This group tour takes visitors on an immersive journey through the historic and natural wonders of Ninh Binh province, known as the "Ha Long Bay on land."
Priced from £43.94 per person, the 12-hour tour includes round-trip transfers from Hanoi, an English-speaking guide, and a packed itinerary of activities.
Guests can explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, experience boat rides at Tam Coc or Trang An, and hike to the top of Mua Cave for panoramic views.
With a cancellation policy allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers flexibility and value.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Ninh Binh.
Itinerary Highlights
The tour kicks off with a morning pickup from hotels in Hanoi around 7:15-8:00 AM.
After a short break, guests will arrive at the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, where they can cycle around the village for 30 minutes.
Lunch is served at a 5-star restaurant with panoramic views, offering vegetarian options.
In the afternoon, guests can choose between a boat ride at Tam Coc or Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The final stop is Mua Cave, where visitors will hike 500 steps to Lying Dragon Mountain for stunning views of Tam Coc.
The tour concludes with a return to Hanoi.
Morning Activities
The tour kicks off with a morning pickup from hotels in Hanoi around 7:15-8:00 AM.
After a short 20-minute break, the group arrives at the ancient capital of Hoa Lu around 10:15-10:30 AM. Guests can choose to cycle around the village for 30 minutes or transfer by bus.
The cycling activity provides an opportunity to explore the local countryside and experience a glimpse of Vietnam’s history.
Following the morning activities, the group enjoys a delightful lunch at a 5-star restaurant boasting panoramic views, with vegetarian options available to accommodate dietary needs.
Lunch
Lunch is served at 12:00 in a 5-star restaurant with panoramic views. The menu offers a variety of local and international dishes, catering to diverse dietary preferences.
| Appetizer | Main Dish | Side Dish | Dessert | Beverage |
| — | — | — | — | — |
| Fresh Spring Rolls | Grilled Chicken with Lemongrass | Steamed Rice | Tropical Fruit Platter | Green Tea |
| Vegetable Samosas | Beef Pho | Stir-Fried Vegetables | Sticky Rice with Mango | Bottled Water |
| Crispy Tofu Salad | Vegetarian Curry | Roasted Potatoes | Crème Brûlée | Iced Coffee |
Vegetarian options are available, ensuring all guests can enjoy the delectable lunch.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyAfternoon Activities
Following the afternoon lunch, guests are presented with two distinct options for their aquatic adventure.
They can either opt for the Tam Coc boat ride, which lasts approximately 1.5 hours, or choose the Trang An boat ride, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, lasting 1.5-2 hours.
Both boat excursions provide visitors with the opportunity to witness the stunning limestone karst formations and serene waterways that characterize this picturesque region.
Afterwards, the group will board a bus and travel to Mua Cave, where they’ll hike 500 steps to the summit of Lying Dragon Mountain for panoramic views of the Tam Coc landscape.
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Mua Cave Visit
After the boat excursions, the group boards a bus and travels to Mua Cave.
Upon arrival, they’ll hike up 500 steps to reach the top of Lying Dragon Mountain. From this vantage point, they’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the stunning Tam Coc landscape.
The group can explore the Mua Cave, a unique geological formation featuring impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
After taking in the sights, they’ll board the bus once more for the journey back to Hanoi, where the tour concludes with drop-off at their hotel.
Return to Hanoi
The group then boards the bus once more for the journey back to Hanoi, where the tour concludes with drop-off at their hotel, approximately between 19:00 and 19:30.
During the drive, the guide may provide additional information or answer any remaining questions. The return trip takes around 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
Upon arrival in Hanoi, the guide bids farewell, and the participants are free to continue their day or make their own way to their next destination.
The tour has offered a comprehensive exploration of Ninh Binh’s natural and historical wonders within a day’s time.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour package includes round-trip transfers between Hanoi and Ninh Binh by limousine, an English-speaking guide, all entrance fees and shared boat rides at Tam Coc or Trang An, free Wi-Fi and a bottle of mineral water, a buffet lunch, a cycling activity, and the use of a raincoat and conical hat.
However, the tour doesn’t include drinks, tips for the guide and driver, or personal expenses.
Plus, any holiday surcharges and services not mentioned in the inclusions are also excluded.
Travelers should note that programs and schedules may change due to weather or external factors.
Since You Asked
What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?
The tour doesn’t specify a maximum group size. However, it’s a shared tour, so the group size can vary. Travellers should check with the tour operator for the current group size details before booking.
Are Infants and Children Allowed on This Tour?
Children of all ages are welcome on this tour. Infants can join at no additional cost, while children will receive discounted pricing. The tour operator can accommodate families and provide necessary equipment and amenities.
Is the Tour Available in Languages Other Than English?
The tour is available in English, but other languages may be accommodated upon request. Customers should check with the tour provider for availability of guides in their preferred language.
Can the Lunch Menu Be Customized for Dietary Restrictions?
The tour’s lunch menu offers vegetarian options, and the provider is likely willing to accommodate other dietary restrictions if requested in advance. Guests should inquire about customizing the menu to meet their needs.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour or Add Additional Activities?
Yes, there are options to extend the tour or add additional activities. Customers can inquire about customizing the itinerary, such as adding a visit to a local market or spending more time at specific sites, for an additional cost.
Final Words
This 12-hour group tour from Hanoi immerses visitors in the natural wonders of Ninh Binh province. Highlights include exploring the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, enjoying a delightful lunch, and choosing between two scenic boat rides. The day culminates with a hike up Mua Cave for breathtaking panoramic views. With round-trip transfers and an English-speaking guide, this tour provides a comprehensive experience of Ninh Binh’s highlights.
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