Hanoi: 3-Day Trip to Ninh Binh, Halong and Lan Ha Bay

Explore the stunning natural landscapes of northern Vietnam on an alluring 3-day journey. Venture beyond Hanoi’s bustling streets to uncover the serene Trang An complex and conquer the challenging Mua Caves viewpoint in Ninh Binh. Then, cruise through the iconic Halong Bay and neighboring Lan Ha Bay, indulging in Vietnamese cuisine, activities, and a sunset party on a 5-star cruise ship. This immersive experience showcases the region’s natural wonders and rich heritage, leaving you with memories that’ll inspire your next adventure.

Key Points

• A 3-day guided tour from Hanoi that explores the highlights of Ninh Binh, Halong Bay, and Lan Ha Bay, including boat cruises, hiking, and cultural experiences.
• Visit the Bai Dinh Temple Complex, the largest Buddhist temple in Vietnam, and take a serene boat trip through the Trang An Landscape Complex.
• Climb the 500 steps to the viewpoint of the Mua Caves for panoramic vistas of the Ninh Binh landscape.
• Cruise through the iconic Halong Bay and nearby Lan Ha Bay, with opportunities for kayaking, swimming, and a sunset party.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, round-trip transportation, English-speaking guide, all entrance fees, and meals and accommodation on the cruise.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Ninh Binh Highlights

Nestled in the heart of northern Vietnam, the Ninh Binh province offers visitors a wealth of cultural and natural wonders.

Travelers often begin their exploration at the Bai Dinh Temple Complex, the largest Buddhist temple in the country, which boasts an impressive collection of 500 Arhat statues, a 36-ton bronze bell, and an imposing 100-ton Buddha statue.

After a delectable local lunch, visitors set out on, launch, or commence a serene boat trip through the Trang An Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The highlight of the day is the challenging but rewarding climb to the viewpoint of the Mua Caves, where visitors are rewarded with panoramic vistas of the lush, karst-studded landscape.

Trang An Landscape Cruise

The tranquil Trang An Landscape Complex serves as a serene backdrop for the mesmerizing boat tour that takes visitors on a journey through its verdant waterways and dramatic limestone formations. Gliding silently through the emerald-green rivers, guests will marvel at the towering cliffs that rise up on both sides, casting dramatic shadows. Along the way, they’ll spot local wildlife like herons and monkeys, and learn about the rich history and culture of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Highlights	Duration	Inclusions
Boat cruise through Trang An	2-3 hours	Local guide
Explore limestone caves and grottos	Scenic views	Life jacket
See native flora and fauna	Peaceful atmosphere	Round-trip transfer

Mua Caves Viewpoint

After exploring the serene Trang An Landscape Complex, visitors can now undertake the challenging climb up the 500 steps to reach the Mua Caves viewpoint.

This viewpoint offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding karst peaks and winding rivers.

From the summit, travelers are treated to a stunning 360-degree view of the spellbinding Ninh Binh landscape.

The ascent may be strenuous, but the payoff is well worth the effort. Reaching the top, visitors can take in the breathtaking scenery, snap memorable photos, and fully appreciate the majesty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Mua Caves viewpoint is a must-visit highlight of the Ninh Binh portion of the 3-day tour.

Halong Bay Cruise

Upon departing Ninh Binh, the tour makes its way to the iconic Halong Bay, where travelers set off on a luxury cruise through the region’s renowned emerald waters and towering limestone islands.

The 5-star cruise ship offers both indoor and outdoor dining areas, allowing guests to savor delectable Vietnamese cuisine while taking in the stunning scenery. Onboard activities include a tai chi session on the sundeck and a cooking demonstration, as well as opportunities for kayaking, swimming, and exploring the nearby caves.

As the cruise winds through the bay, travelers can appreciate the breathtaking landscape, culminating in a sunset party to celebrate the day’s adventures.

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Lan Ha Bay Exploration

Amid the alluring scenery of Halong Bay, the cruise also ventures into the neighboring Lan Ha Bay, offering travelers a chance to explore this lesser-known yet equally enchanting region.

Guests will have the opportunity to kayak or swim at the picturesque Ba Trai Dao Beach, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and serene waters. Plus, they can visit the Dark Cave and Bright Cave, where they can discover the area’s unique geological formations and underwater ecosystems.

Throughout the exploration, guests will be treated to a cooking demonstration and a sunset party, creating a truly immersive and memorable experience in this spellbinding corner of Vietnam.

Onboard Dining and Activities

The cruise also offers a range of onboard dining and activity options that allow guests to fully enjoy the Halong Bay experience.

Each day, guests can start their mornings with a light breakfast while enjoying the stunning views of the bay. Later, they’ll be treated to a delicious lunch of Vietnamese cuisine.

Throughout the day, the crew provides a cooking demonstration, giving passengers an insider’s look at the preparation of traditional dishes.

In the evenings, guests can participate in a sunset party and unwind with tai chi sessions on the sundeck.

These activities, combined with the luxurious accommodations, guarantee a truly memorable journey through the enchanting Halong and Lan Ha Bays.

Inclusions and Pricing

This 3-day Hanoi tour package includes a range of services to certify a seamless and enjoyable experience. Travelers can expect hotel pickup and drop-off within the Hanoi Old Quarter, as well as round-trip limousine bus transportation. Plus, the tour provides an English-speaking guide to accompany participants throughout the journey, and all entrance fees and activities are covered.

The package also includes:

1. Accommodation, meals, and insurance on the cruise.
2. A cooking demonstration and sunset party on the cruise.

Exclusions for personal items, drinks, tips for the guide and driver, and a single supplement for solo travelers.

This extensive offering guarantees a worry-free exploration of Ninh Binh, Halong Bay, and Lan Ha Bay.

Transportation and Guides

For this 3-day Hanoi tour, travelers enjoy convenient hotel pickup and drop-off within the Hanoi Old Quarter, as well as round-trip limousine bus transportation.

An English-speaking guide accompanies participants throughout the journey, ensuring a seamless and informative experience. The guide provides valuable insights into the cultural and historical significance of the visited sites, such as the Bai Dinh Temple Complex and the Trang An Landscape Complex.

They also assist with coordinating activities, like the boat trip through the UNESCO World Heritage Site and the kayaking or swimming at Ba Trai Dao Beach. With the guide’s expertise, travelers can fully enjoy the natural wonders and rich heritage of northern Vietnam during this thorough tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book This Tour for Solo Travelers?

Yes, solo travelers can book this tour. The package includes hotel pickup/drop-off, round-trip transportation, English-speaking guide, and all activities. However, solo travelers may need to pay a single supplement fee for accommodations.

Is There an Option to Extend the Trip Duration?

Yes, the tour operator typically offers the option to extend the trip duration. Travelers can add extra days to explore more destinations or spend more time in Ninh Binh, Halong Bay, and Lan Ha Bay based on their preferences.

Can I Request Special Dietary Requirements on the Cruise?

Yes, you can request special dietary requirements on the cruise. The cruise line will accommodate various dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, halal, and gluten-free options, as long as you inform them in advance.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for This Tour?

The tour company offers a flexible cancellation policy. Travelers can cancel up to 48 hours in advance for a full refund, or 24 hours in advance for a 50% refund. Any cancellation within 24 hours is non-refundable.

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour operator offers some flexibility to customize the itinerary. Travelers can request changes to the activities, duration, or start/end locations, though additional fees may apply. The operator aims to accommodate reasonable requests within the tour’s overall structure.

Recap

This 3-day journey through northern Vietnam’s natural wonders is a must-do for nature enthusiasts.

Visitors will marvel at the serene landscapes of Trang An, challenge themselves at the Mua Caves viewpoint, and sail through the stunning Halong and Lan Ha Bays.

With convenient transportation, expert guides, and a variety of activities and cuisine, this trip offers an extensive and smooth exploration of the region’s incredible beauty and heritage.

You can check if your dates are available here: