Highlight Ninh Binh Full Day Tour:Tam Coc, Mua Cave, Hoa Lu

Nestled in the heart of northern Vietnam, the Highlight Ninh Binh Full Day Tour offers visitors a chance to enjoy the region’s breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. From the serene boat ride along the Ngo Dong River, surrounded by towering limestone formations, to the exhilarating hike up the 500 steps of Mua Cave, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. Explore the history of the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and savor the flavors of local cuisine, all while marveling at the stunning landscapes that have made Ninh Binh a must-visit destination in Vietnam. Prepare to be captivated by the sheer grandeur and cultural significance of this remarkable region.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Full-Day Tours In Ninh Binh.

Key Points

• Explore the stunning natural landscapes of Tam Coc, often referred to as "Halong Bay on land," with a serene boat ride along the Ngo Dong River.

• Set out on a challenging yet rewarding hike up the 500 steps of Mua Cave, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Ninh Binh region.

• Discover the rich history and cultural heritage of Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam from 968 to 1010 AD.

• Enjoy a personalized small-group experience with a maximum of 17-20 guests, ensuring focused attention from the professional English-speaking guide.

• Savor delicious local cuisine during the included lunch at a restaurant in Ninh Binh.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview and Details

This full-day tour to Ninh Binh promises visitors an immersive experience exploring the region’s ancient capital, traditional villages, and stunning natural landscapes.

Priced from £43.44 per person, the 12-hour tour includes roundtrip limousine bus transfer, a professional English-speaking guide, and all necessary entrance fees.

Highlights include biking through local villages, a relaxing boat ride on the Ngo Dong River through the picturesque Tam Coc, and a hike up the 500 steps of Mua Cave for breathtaking panoramic views.

Guests can also enjoy a delicious local lunch.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, this small-group tour provides a well-rounded and convenient Ninh Binh experience.

Itinerary

The tour begins with a departure from Hanoi between 7:30 and 8:00 AM.

The first stop is Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, which served as the capital of Vietnam from 968 to 1010 AD. Guests will have the opportunity to bike around local villages, allowing them to explore Vietnamese culture firsthand.

After a delicious lunch at a local restaurant in Ninh Binh, the afternoon is dedicated to a 1.5-hour boat trip through the picturesque Tam Coc region, often referred to as "Halong Bay on land."

The day culminates with a hike up Mua Cave, offering panoramic views of the stunning Tam Coc river and rice paddies.

Inclusions

As part of the Ninh Binh Full Day Tour, guests can look forward to an array of inclusions that enhance their overall experience. These inclusions cover transportation, guiding, activities, and dining to provide a well-rounded day trip.

Inclusions	Details
Transportation	Roundtrip limousine bus transfer from Hanoi
Guiding	Professional English-speaking guide
Activities	Entrance fees, boat ride at Tam Coc, Mua Cave exploration
Dining	Delicious local lunch

The tour also promises a small group experience, with a maximum of 17-20 guests, ensuring personalized attention throughout the day.

Experience Highlights

Travelers on the Ninh Binh Full Day Tour can look forward to a tranquil boat ride along the Ngo Dong River, seeing the stunning scenery that has earned the region the moniker "Halong Bay on land."

The tour offers three key experience highlights:

1. A serene cruise through paddy fields and caves, providing a unique perspective on the local countryside.

2. The opportunity to ascend the 500 steps of Mua Cave, rewarding adventurers with breathtaking panoramic views of the Tam Coc river and surrounding rice paddies.

3. The chance to explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, uncovering the rich history and culture of this fascinating region.

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Additional Information

Pickup for the Ninh Binh Full Day Tour is included from hotels in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Personal expenses and tips for the guide and driver are not included, but are appreciated. Check availability for the desired starting time and participant selection.

Included	Not Included
Roundtrip limousine bus transfer	Personal Expenses
Professional English-speaking guide	Tips for Guide/Driver
Entrance fees	–
Boat ride at Tam Coc	–
Delicious lunch	–
Mua Cave exploration	–
Small group experience	–

The tour ensures a memorable experience exploring the stunning landscapes and cultural highlights of Ninh Binh.

Departure and Arrival

The tour departs from Hanoi between 7:30 and 8:00 AM, allowing guests to start their full-day adventure early.

After the pickup from the Hanoi Old Quarter hotel lobby, the group travels to the first stop at the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, dating back to the 10th century.

The day continues with:

1. Biking around the local villages to explore Vietnamese culture.
2. A delicious lunch at a restaurant in Ninh Binh.
3. The iconic boat ride on the Ngo Dong River through the stunning Tam Coc landscape, often described as "Halong Bay on land."

The tour concludes with the hike up the 500 steps of Mua Cave, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the river and rice paddies.

Boat Ride at Tam Coc

After the lunch in Ninh Binh, the tour moves on to the iconic Tam Coc boat ride.

Passengers board traditional sampan boats and gently float down the Ngo Dong River, surrounded by jaw-dropping limestone karst formations and lush rice paddies. The serene river journey lasts approximately 1.5 hours, providing a tranquil respite from the bustling city of Hanoi.

Guides share insightful commentary about the region’s history and natural wonders along the way. Travelers have the chance to admire the unique "karst landscape on land", often likened to a "inland Halong Bay" before disembarking to begin the hike up Mua Cave.

Hike Mua Cave

Concluding the Tam Coc boat ride, travelers embark on the hike up Mua Cave. The 500-step ascent rewards with breathtaking panoramas over the Tam Coc river and surrounding rice paddies.

Along the way, hikers:

1. Pause to admire the stunning scenery, likened to "Halong Bay on land."
2. Traverse a series of steep staircases, challenging but manageable for most fitness levels.
3. Reach the peak, where sweeping views of the Ninh Binh landscape unfold in every direction.

This hike offers a chance to stretch one’s legs and witness the natural beauty that has earned Ninh Binh the nickname "the Ha Long Bay on land."

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour to Fit My Interests?

Yes, many tour providers offer the ability to customize tours to fit individual interests. Travelers can often request adjustments to the itinerary, activity level, or pace of the tour to suit their preferences.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour does not have a strict dress code, but visitors should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and walking shoes. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are recommended, as the tour involves some hiking and boat rides.

Are There Any Accessibility Options for Disabled Travelers?

While the tour doesn’t explicitly mention accessibility, the provider may be able to accommodate guests with disabilities. It’s best to inquire about specific needs when booking to ensure a comfortable experience.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Travelers are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, a delicious lunch at a local restaurant is already included in the tour package, so bringing one’s own may not be necessary.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Reschedule?

Customers can cancel their tour reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexible policy allows them to reschedule their tour if needed without penalty. The tour operator offers a "reserve now, pay later" option as well.

Recap

The Highlight Ninh Binh Full Day Tour offers an unforgettable adventure through Vietnam’s stunning landscapes. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil boat ride along the Ngo Dong River, conquer the challenging hike at Mua Cave, and explore the rich history of Hoa Lu. This comprehensive tour provides an excellent opportunity to experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Ninh Binh region.

You can check if your dates are available here: