Hoa Lu Ancient, the former capital of Vietnam, offers a captivating journey into the country’s rich history and natural wonders. This 10-hour tour immerses visitors in the cultural heritage of the Dinh King Temple, set against the stunning backdrop of limestone mountains. Beyond the historic site, the tour ventures into the serene landscapes of Bich Dong and Thung Nham Bird Valley, where cycling and boat trips unveil a haven for birdwatchers. With a blend of historical significance and natural beauty, this excursion promises an unforgettable experience that’s sure to leave you eager to uncover more.
Key Points
- Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel is a 10th-century seat of power for the Dinh and early Le dynasties, offering insight into Vietnam’s rich history and traditions.
- The tour includes a visit to Dinh King Temple, a 17th-century structure honoring King Dinh Tien Hoang, in the scenic setting of limestone mountains and lush landscapes.
- Bich Dong and Thung Nham Bird Valley provide opportunities to explore natural wonders, including cycling and boat trips, as well as birdwatching.
- The 10-hour tour includes a buffet lunch at The Long restaurant with panoramic views, as well as hotel pickup, entrance fees, and bottled water.
- The tour is conducted in English by an English-speaking guide, with a group size limited to 15 participants for a personalized experience.
Tour Overview
The tour offers a captivating journey to Hoa Lu Ancient – Bich Dong and Thung Nham Bird Valley, with a price of $57.78 per person.
It’s a 10-hour excursion with a group size limited to 15 participants. The tour is conducted in English and allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Travelers can reserve the tour now and pay later. The itinerary includes visiting the ancient citadel, exploring the natural beauty of Bich Dong and Thung Nham Bird Valley, and enjoying a boat trip and birdwatching.
Hotel pickup, a buffet lunch, and all entrance fees are included in the price.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Ninh Binh.
Itinerary Highlights
At 7:30-8:00, the tour begins with a meet-up with the guide at the hotel, followed by a 110km drive through the picturesque countryside.
Upon arrival at 10:30, visitors will explore the Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel and the Dinh King Temple dating back to the 17th century.
After a local Vietnamese lunch at noon, the group will embark on a cycling tour around the Bich Dong and Thung Nham area.
This is followed by a boat trip to the Fairy Water Cave and birdwatching, where various species like storks, pelicans, and herons can be observed.
The tour concludes with a return to Hanoi, arriving between 18:30-19:00.
Inclusions
This tour includes hotel pick-up in the Old Quarter of Hanoi by limousine, along with an English-speaking guide to accompany the group throughout the day.
The package also provides two bottles of water per person, a buffet lunch at The Long restaurant with Tam Coc panoramic views, and covers all entrance fees as per the itinerary.
Travelers will enjoy:
- Cycling around the Bich Dong and Thung Nham area.
- A boat trip to the Fairy Water Cave and birdwatching.
- Tips and personal expenses aren’t included.
Experience Features
This tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the historical and natural wonders of Northern Vietnam. Visitors will be captivated by a visit to Hoa Lu, an ancient capital steeped in history, and the stunning natural beauty of Bich Dong and Thung Nham Bird Valley. The cycling and boating experiences allow guests to enjoy the breathtaking landscapes, while the chance to observe a diverse array of bird species in Thung Nham adds an exciting eco-tourism element to the excursion. This well-rounded itinerary provides a truly memorable and enriching experience for all participants.
Experience | Description |
---|---|
Historical Exploration | Visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and the 17th-century Dinh King Temple |
Natural Wonders | Discover the picturesque Bich Dong and the eco-tourism hub of Thung Nham Bird Valley |
Cycling & Boating | Explore the stunning landscapes by bicycle and boat |
Birdwatching | Observe a wide variety of bird species, including Storks, Pelicans, and Herons |
Local Cuisine | Savor delicious Vietnamese cuisine at a restaurant with panoramic views |
Important Information
Travelers are encouraged to contact the tour operator for any special requests prior to booking.
Some key information to keep in mind:
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Customers should provide their mobile phone number, WhatsApp, KakaoTalk, or WeChat information for direct communication after reservation. This allows for easy coordination and updates during the tour.
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The tour can accommodate a limited group size of up to 15 participants, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience.
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Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for travelers.
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Destination: Hoa Lu Ancient
The tour begins with a visit to Hoa Lu, an ancient capital located about 110km from Hanoi. Established in the 10th century, Hoa Lu served as the seat of power for the Dinh and early Le dynasties.
Participants will explore the Dinh King Temple, a 17th-century structure built to honor King Dinh Tien Hoang, the founder of the Dinh Dynasty. This ancient citadel provides a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Visitors can wander through the ruins and imagine the grandeur of this former royal capital, nestled amidst the limestone mountains and verdant landscapes of northern Vietnam.
Price and Duration
For this tour, the price is $57.78 per person, and the duration is 10 hours. The tour is limited to 15 participants and is available in English.
Highlights of the experience include:
- Visiting the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and the historic Dinh King Temple.
- Enjoying a buffet lunch featuring local Vietnamese cuisine with a panoramic view of Tam Coc.
- Exploring the natural beauty of Bich Dong and the Thung Nham Bird Valley through cycling and boating activities.
The tour also includes hotel pickup, entrance fees, and bottled water, making it a comprehensive and convenient way to experience the historical and natural wonders of the region.
Group Size and Language
The tour group size is limited to 15 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
This small group size allows for more attentive guidance from the English-speaking tour leader, who can provide detailed insights and respond to individual questions.
The language of the tour is English, catering to a wide range of international visitors.
This linguistic accessibility makes the experience inclusive and allows participants to fully engage with the cultural and natural wonders of Hoa Lu Ancient and Thung Nham Bird Valley.
The small group size and English-speaking guide create an optimal environment for travelers to enjoy the tour’s highlights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food on the Tour?
You can bring your own food on the tour, but a buffet lunch is provided as part of the tour package. It’s best to check with the tour operator about any specific food or drink policies.
Is the Tour Suitable for Young Children?
The tour seems suitable for young children, with activities like cycling, boating, and birdwatching that can be enjoyed by families. However, the 10-hour duration may be tiring for younger kids, so parents should consider their child’s stamina.
Do I Need to Bring Any Specific Equipment?
The tour doesn’t require any specialized equipment. Participants should wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes, and bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. The tour operator provides all necessary equipment, including bicycles and life jackets for the boat ride.
Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?
The tour does not appear to be fully wheelchair accessible. While some activities may be accessible, the itinerary includes cycling and boating which may pose challenges for wheelchair users. It’s best to check with the tour operator for specific accessibility details.
Can I Extend the Tour Duration or Change the Itinerary?
Yes, the tour itinerary and duration can be customized. Guests can contact the tour operator to discuss any special requests, such as extending the tour or modifying the itinerary, which they’ll accommodate based on availability and feasibility.
Recap
This tour of Hoa Lu Ancient, the former capital of Vietnam, offers a captivating blend of historical and natural wonders. Visitors can explore the Dinh King Temple, marvel at limestone mountains, cycle through picturesque landscapes, and embark on a boat trip to Fairy Water Cave. Birdwatching enthusiasts will also delight in spotting diverse species at Thung Nham Bird Valley, making this excursion a must-experience for those seeking to enjoy Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty.
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