Hanoi: Ninh Binh, Trang An/Tam Coc, Mua Cave and Hoa Lu Tour

Hanoi’s surroundings offer a wealth of natural and cultural treasures, and the Ninh Binh tour is a prime example. Visitors can explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, marvel at the breathtaking views from Mua Cave, and choose between serene boat rides through Trang An or Tam Coc. With a guided experience and efficient logistics, this tour promises an immersive day of discovering Ninh Binh’s captivating beauty. What else might it have in store?

Key Points

• This full-day tour from Hanoi explores the historical and natural wonders of Ninh Binh province, including the ancient capital Hoa Lu and the scenic landscapes of Mua Cave and Trang An/Tam Coc.
• The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, an English-speaking guide, entry fees, lunch, and tips, making it a convenient and inclusive experience.
• Visitors can enjoy a moderate hike to the Mua Cave viewpoint for panoramic vistas and have the option to take a 2.5-hour boat ride through the Trang An or Tam Coc waterways.
• Hoa Lu, the 10th-century capital of Vietnam, offers a guided tour of its ancient palaces and temples, providing insights into the country’s early history.
• The tour is highly rated by customers, who praise the informative guide, comfortable transportation, and good value for money.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This tour, titled "Hanoi: Ninh Binh, Trang An/Tam Coc, Mua Cave and Hoa Lu Tour," offers a full-day excursion from Hanoi to the picturesque Ninh Binh province.

Priced from $44.73 to $42.49 per person, the tour lasts one day with hotel pickup in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.

The itinerary includes exploring Hoa Lu’s ancient capital, hiking to Mua Cave’s viewpoint, and boat rides through Trang An or Tam Coc.

Transportation, an English-speaking guide, entry fees, lunch, and tips are included. Flexibility is available, with the possibility of adjustments due to weather or traffic.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour departs Hanoi at 7:00 AM, traveling approximately 90 km to Ninh Binh province with a 20-minute break en route.

The first stop is Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam in the 10th century, where guests explore with a guided tour and free time.

Next, there’s a moderate hike to Ngoa Long Mountain at Mua Cave, providing panoramic views of the Tam Coc valley.

Lunch at a local restaurant serves traditional Vietnamese cuisine.

The tour then offers either a 2.5-hour boat ride through Trang An’s limestone karsts and caves or a scenic sampan ride through the rice fields and caves of Tam Coc.

Hoa Lu

Guests explore the ancient capital of Vietnam at Hoa Lu during the guided tour.

They’ll discover the remains of 10th-century palaces and temples, learning about Vietnam’s history. The tour includes free time to wander the ruins and soak in the atmosphere.

Visitors can see the ancient temples of the Dinh and Le dynasties, providing a glimpse into the nation’s past.

With the guide’s insights, guests gain a deeper understanding of Hoa Lu’s significance as the first centralized Vietnamese state.

This cultural exploration is a highlight of the day’s adventures in the Ninh Binh region.

Mua Cave

After exploring the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, guests embark on a moderate hike to Ngoa Long Mountain, home to the scenic Mua Cave.

The hike offers stunning panoramic views of the Tam Coc valley, a picturesque landscape of towering limestone karsts and winding rivers.

Along the way, visitors:

• Ascend over 500 steps to reach the top of the mountain

• Marvel at the breathtaking vistas of the surrounding countryside

• Capture postcard-worthy photos from the Mua Cave viewpoint

This scenic hike is a highlight of the tour, providing an opportunity to immerse in the natural beauty of Ninh Binh.

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Lunch

Following a morning of cultural exploration and scenic hikes, the tour participants enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant.

The meal includes a variety of authentic dishes, such as phở, bánh mì, and spring rolls. The food is freshly prepared and served family-style, allowing guests to sample a range of flavors.

The relaxed setting provides an opportunity to rest and recharge before the afternoon’s activities. Lunch is included in the tour price, ensuring a satisfying midday meal that fuels the group for the remainder of the adventure.

Boat Options

Participants may choose between two scenic boat experiences during the tour.

The first option is a 2.5-hour boat ride through the limestone karsts and caves of Trang An, which includes historic temples.

The second option is a sampan ride through the rice fields and caves of Tam Coc, which features:

• Hang Ca (First Cave)

• Hang Hai (Second Cave)

• Hang Ba (Third Cave)

Both boat trips offer a chance to immerse in the stunning natural landscapes and cultural heritage of the Ninh Binh region.

Transportation and Inclusions

The tour package includes round-trip transportation by bus or coach from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, a journey of approximately 90 km.

Hotel pickup and drop-off in Hoan Kiem District are provided. An English-speaking guide accompanies the group throughout the day.

Entrance fees for all attractions, boat tickets for either Trang An or Tam Coc, and bicycle rentals are included. A traditional Vietnamese lunch and bottled water are also provided.

Tipping for the guide and driver is covered. An additional fee of 200,000 VND may apply on specific holiday dates.

Customer Experience

According to reviews, customers have had a positive overall experience with this Hanoi tour. The tour boasts a 4.8/5 rating based on 87 reviews, with praise for the informative guide, comfortable transportation, and good value for money.

A top-rated Hanoi tour with an impressive 4.8/5 rating, praised for its knowledgeable guide, comfortable transport, and excellent value.

Customers highlight the tour’s key strengths:

• An enjoyable mix of cultural exploration, scenic hikes, and boat rides through the picturesque Ninh Binh region.

• A knowledgeable, English-speaking guide who provides insightful commentary.

• Well-organized logistics, including hotel pickup and drop-off, and a traditional Vietnamese lunch.

Since You Asked

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour’s maximum group size is not explicitly stated in the provided information. The details focus on the tour’s itinerary, pricing, and inclusions without specifying the group size.

Are There Any Physical Requirements or Age Restrictions?

There are no strict physical requirements, but the tour involves moderate hiking and boat rides. It’s suitable for most ages, though very young children may find some activities challenging. Travelers should be reasonably fit and able-bodied.

Can I Customize the Itinerary or Activities?

The tour’s itinerary and activities aren’t customizable, but travelers can request changes by contacting the provider. Some flexibility may be available, subject to availability and additional fees.

Is Wifi Available on the Transportation?

The transportation for this tour doesn’t have on-board WiFi available. However, most hotels, restaurants, and attractions in the areas visited offer free WiFi for guests to stay connected during the day.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Special Dietary Meal?

Yes, you can request a vegetarian or special dietary meal. The tour provider offers a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant, and they’re happy to accommodate any dietary requirements if you inform them in advance.

Final Words

This Ninh Binh tour from Hanoi offers a captivating blend of cultural and natural wonders. Travelers can explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, hike to Mua Cave’s scenic viewpoint, enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch, and choose between serene boat rides through Trang An or Tam Coc. With hotel pickup, an English-speaking guide, and positive reviews, this tour provides a seamless and highly-rated experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: