Hanoi: Ninh Binh, Tam Coc, Mua Cave & Hoa Lu With Cycling

Set out on a captivating one-day cycling tour from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, where history, nature, and culinary delights converge. Explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, marvel at the breathtaking landscapes of Tam Coc, and uncover the optional gem of Mua Cave. Savor a 30-dish buffet lunch in a 5-star setting as you learn about the cultural richness of this Vietnamese adventure. What secrets await you in this enchanting region?

Key Points

• This one-day cycling tour from Hanoi takes visitors to Ninh Binh, exploring Hoa Lu, Tam Coc, and the optional Mua Cave.
• The tour includes round-trip transportation, an English-speaking guide, a buffet lunch, and entrance fees, with a range of $38.28 to $57.13 per person.
• The key highlights include a boat ride through the stunning Tam Coc region and cycling through the picturesque countryside around Hoa Lu.
• Pickup is available from hotels in Hanoi’s Old Quarter or Opera House, with a 20-minute rest stop during the 2.5-hour journey to Ninh Binh.
• The tour offers a unique perspective on the captivating destination of Ninh Binh through a combination of cycling, boat rides, and exploring historical sites.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Tour

This Ninh Binh and Tam Coc Cycling Tour is a day trip from Hanoi that allows visitors to explore the stunning landscapes of Ninh Binh province.

The tour includes visits to Hoa Lu, Tam Coc, and the optional Mua Cave. Lasting one day, the tour costs between $38.28 and $57.13 per person.

This one-day tour includes visits to Hoa Lu, Tam Coc, and the optional Mua Cave, costing between $38.28 and $57.13 per person.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Pickup and drop-off are provided from Hanoi’s Old Quarter or the Opera House, with a schedule covering activities such as cycling, boat rides, and hiking.

The tour includes transportation, guide, entrance fees, a buffet lunch, and bottled water.

Highlights of the Itinerary

The tour kicks off with a pickup from hotels in Hanoi’s Old Quarter or the Opera House, followed by a 20-minute rest stop on the 2.5-hour journey to Ninh Binh.

Upon arrival, guests explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, cycling through the scenic landscape.

After, they enjoy a lavish 30-dish buffet lunch at a 5-star restaurant.

The highlight is the 1.5-hour boat ride through the stunning Tam Coc, where limestone karsts rise from the river.

For the adventurous, the optional Mua Cave hike offers panoramic views before the return to Hanoi.

• Explore Hoa Lu, the ancient capital

• Cycle through the picturesque countryside

• Indulge in a 30-dish buffet lunch

• Glide along the Tam Coc river

Transportation and Pickup Details

The tour package includes round-trip transportation from Hanoi, with hotel pickup and drop-off in the Old Quarter available.

Guests will be picked up between 7-8 am and transported by limousine or bus to Ninh Binh, about a 20-minute rest stop.

After visiting Hoa Lu and cycling, the group will enjoy a buffet lunch at a 5-star restaurant.

The afternoon features a 1.5-hour boat ride in Tam Coc and an optional hike to Mua Cave.

At the end of the day, travelers will be dropped off in the Old Quarter between 8-8:30 pm.

Exploring Hoa Lu and Cycling

After arriving in Ninh Binh, the tour group will begin their exploration of the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, one of the highlights of the day.

They’ll cycle through the picturesque landscape, admiring the limestone karsts and historic temples.

The tour includes:

Visiting the remains of the 10th-century Dinh and Le dynasties’ palace ruins, cycling through the scenic countryside, and learning about the rich history.

• Visiting the remains of the 10th-century Dinh and Le dynasties’ palace ruins

• Cycling through the scenic countryside around Hoa Lu

• Learning about the rich history of this former capital from the knowledgeable guide

• Taking in the stunning natural beauty of the Ninh Binh region

The cycling adventure offers a unique perspective on this captivating destination.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Buffet Lunch at a 5-Star Restaurant

Following the exploration of Hoa Lu and the cycling adventure, the tour group will now enjoy a sumptuous buffet lunch at a 5-star restaurant in Ninh Binh.

The buffet offers over 30 delectable dishes, catering to various dietary preferences, including vegetarian options. Theres some good an array of Vietnamese specialties, from fragrant pho to flavorful rice dishes, accompanied by a selection of fresh seafood, meat, and salads.

The 5-star setting provides a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere, allowing the travelers to refuel and recharge before the next leg of their journey.

Boat Ride Through Tam Coc

Departing the restaurant, the group boards the traditional sampan boats for a serene drift along the Tam Coc waterways.

The oarsmen skillfully navigate the narrow limestone-flanked rivers, weaving between lush paddy fields and dramatic karst landscapes.

Along the way, visitors marvel at:

• Towering limestone cliffs rising from the still waters

• Peaceful rural scenes of farmers tending their crops

• Ancient temples and pagodas nestled into the hills

• Glimpses of local wildlife, including egrets and cormorants

The boat ride offers a tranquil respite, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the natural beauty of this stunning region.

Optional Hike to Mua Cave

For those seeking an additional challenge, the tour includes an optional hike up to Mua Cave.

The 500-step climb rewards visitors with panoramic views over the Ngo Dong River and the surrounding karst landscapes. The hike takes around 1.5 hours and is considered moderately difficult.

At the top, guests can explore the small Mua Cave and its Buddhist shrines. While challenging, the trek offers a unique perspective of the region’s stunning natural beauty.

At the summit, visitors can discover the diminutive Mua Cave and its Buddhist sanctuaries. The demanding hike yields an unparalleled viewpoint of the captivating natural landscapes.

Those who complete the ascent are often left breathless, both literally and figuratively, by the magnificent vistas that unfold before them.

Included Features and What to Bring

The tour includes a range of features to enhance the overall experience.

Transportation is provided via round-trip limousine or bus, with hotel pickup and drop-off. An English-speaking guide accompanies the group, providing valuable insights throughout the day.

The tour includes:

• Boat ride in the scenic Tam Coc region

• Cycling through the Hoa Lu ancient capital

• Buffet lunch with vegetarian options and drinks

• Entrance fees to Hoa Lu and Mua Cave (optional)

• A bottle of water and tips for the guide and driver

Travelers should wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking, cycling, and climbing.

Essential items to bring include sunglasses, a hat, umbrella, camera, sunscreen, and a water bottle.

Since You Asked

What Are the Health and Safety Protocols During the Tour?

The tour follows health and safety protocols, including sanitizing high-touch areas, enforcing mask-wearing, and maintaining social distancing. Travelers must complete a health declaration form and have their temperatures checked before departure.

Is There an Option to Customize the Itinerary?

Yes, the tour offers flexible itinerary options. Customers can customize their experience by choosing to include or exclude the Mua Cave hike based on their preferences and abilities. The core tour activities remain the same.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

While the tour includes meals and drinks, you’re welcome to bring your own food and beverages if you prefer. However, the buffet lunch is part of the included features, so you won’t need to purchase additional meals during the trip.

What Happens in Case of Inclement Weather?

In case of inclement weather, the tour operator will make necessary adjustments to the itinerary and provide rain ponchos or umbrellas if needed. They’ll ensure guests enjoy the experience despite the weather conditions.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour or Add Extra Activities?

There’s an option to add additional activities like visiting Trang An, boating on the Ngo Dong River, or exploring Bich Dong Pagoda. Guests can also extend the tour to include a visit to Van Long Nature Reserve or Cuc Phuong National Park.

Final Words

This cycling tour from Hanoi to Ninh Binh offers a captivating blend of history, nature, and culinary delights. Explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, cycle through picturesque countryside, and indulge in a 30-dish buffet lunch. The boat ride through Tam Coc’s breathtaking landscapes and the optional hike to Mua Cave further enhance this immersive cultural experience in the heart of Vietnam.

You can check if your dates are available here: