Hoa Lu and Tam Coc in Ninh Binh Full Day Tour

The Hoa Lu and Tam Coc Full Day Tour offers travelers a chance to enjoy Vietnam’s rich history and stunning natural landscapes. Starting with an exploration of the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, guests can expect to uncover the significance of the historic temples, guided by an English-speaking expert. The adventure continues with a leisurely cycling tour through traditional villages, leading to a serene 1.5-hour bamboo boat ride in Tam Coc, where limestone cliffs and lush greenery create a breathtaking backdrop. With a comprehensive itinerary and inclusions, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking to discover the hidden gems of Ninh Binh.

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

Key Points

• This full-day tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the historic Hoa Lu ancient capital and the scenic Tam Coc region in Ninh Binh, Vietnam.
• The tour includes transportation, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees, cycling, a buffet lunch, and rain gear, priced from $48.59 per person.
• Highlights of the tour include visiting the ancient Hoa Lu capital, cycling through traditional villages, and a 1.5-hour bamboo boat ride in Tam Coc.
• The tour schedule covers pickup from Hanoi Old Quarter, visits to Hoa Lu and Tam Coc, and a buffet lunch, with a return to Hanoi between 17:30 and 18:00.
• The tour includes comfortable transportation, entrance fees, and a cycling experience, while excluding personal expenses and gratuities for the guide and driver.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This tour is a full-day excursion that takes visitors to the historic Hoa Lu and the scenic Tam Coc region. Priced from $48.59 per person, the tour includes transportation, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees, a cycling activity, a buffet lunch, and complimentary use of rain gear.

The itinerary highlights include visiting the ancient capital of Vietnam, exploring traditional villages by bicycle, and embarking on a 1.5-hour bamboo boat ride to discover caves and stunning landscapes.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve with no upfront payment, this tour offers flexibility and convenience for travelers. The tour duration is approximately 1 day, with pickup and drop-off services provided in the Hanoi Old Quarter area.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour’s itinerary highlights an engaging exploration of Vietnam’s rich history and stunning natural landscapes.

Travelers will first visit Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam from 968-1010 AD, where they’ll learn about the nation’s fascinating past.

Next, they’ll embark on a cycling tour through traditional villages, seeing the local culture.

After a delicious buffet lunch featuring regional specialties, including vegetarian options, the highlight awaits – a 1.5-hour bamboo boat ride through the breathtaking Tam Coc region.

During this peaceful voyage, guests will discover scenic caves and landscapes that have captivated visitors for generations.

Tour Schedule

When does the tour start? The tour kicks off with pickup between 7:25 am and 8:00 am from accommodations in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Guests will then enjoy a short 15-20 minute break at 9:15 am before visiting the historic Hoa Lu site and learning about Vietnam’s history starting at 10:15 am. After a delicious buffet lunch at 12:00 pm, the group will embark on a 1.5 hour bamboo boat ride in Tam Coc at 13:30. The tour wraps up with a return bus trip to Hanoi, arriving between 17:30 and 18:00.

Time	Activity
07:25 – 08:00	Pickup by guide
09:15	Short break (15-20 minutes)
10:15	Visit Hoa Lu and learn about Vietnamese history
12:00	Buffet lunch with local food options, including vegetarian
13:30	Bamboo boat ride in Tam Coc
15:00	Return bus to Hanoi
17:30 – 18:00	Drop-off at hotels in Hanoi

Included in the Tour

Although the tour price may seem reasonable, the inclusions ensure guests receive good value for their money.

The Hoa Lu and Tam Coc Full Day Tour includes:

• Comfortable limousine bus transportation with 17 seats
• An English-speaking guide to provide historical context and narration
• One complimentary bottle of water per person
• Entrance fees to all the featured attractions
• A leisurely cycling tour around the traditional villages
• A delectable buffet lunch showcasing local Vietnamese cuisine, including vegetarian options
• Free usage of conical hats and raincoats if needed, catering to the weather conditions.

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Excluded From the Tour

Aside from the comprehensive inclusions, there are a few items not covered by the tour price. These additional expenses are minimal but important to be aware of when budgeting for the full-day excursion.

Excluded Items	Details
Drinks	Guests are responsible for purchasing their own beverages, including water, sodas, and alcoholic drinks.
Travel Insurance	It is recommended to secure personal travel insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances during the trip.
Tips	While optional, it is customary to provide gratuities for the guide and driver at the end of the tour.

These minor exclusions allow travelers to tailor the experience to their individual needs and preferences, ensuring a truly memorable journey through the stunning landscapes of Hoa Lu and Tam Coc.

Pickup and Drop-off

The tour begins with a convenient pickup from guests’ accommodations within the Hanoi Old Quarter, typically scheduled between 7:25 AM and 8:00 AM. This allows for a timely departure to the day’s destinations.

After a scenic 2-hour drive, the group will make a short 15-20 minute rest stop. The tour then continues to:

1. Explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu
2. Enjoy a buffet lunch featuring local Vietnamese cuisine
3. Experience the serene 1.5-hour bamboo boat ride in Tam Coc
4. Return to Hanoi, with drop-off at hotels between 5:30 PM and 6:00 PM.

The pickup and drop-off service ensures a stress-free and seamless experience for participants.

Exploring Hoa Lu

After the comfortable pickup and transfer from Hanoi, the tour heads to the historical site of Hoa Lu.

This ancient capital of Vietnam from 968-1010 AD offers a glimpse into the country’s rich past. Visitors will explore the remaining temples and pavilions, learning about the emperors who ruled from this strategic location.

The guide shares insights into the architectural features and significance of the various structures. Wandering through the peaceful grounds, travelers gain a deeper appreciation for Vietnam’s long and storied history.

This stop on the itinerary provides a valuable cultural experience before the scenic boat ride in Tam Coc.

Bamboo Boat Ride in Tam Coc

Following the visit to the historical site of Hoa Lu, the tour proceeds to the scenic landscapes of Tam Coc.

Here, visitors embark on a relaxing bamboo boat ride to explore the breathtaking natural scenery. The boat navigates through a series of caves, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, lush greenery, and serene rivers.

The journey offers a unique perspective, allowing guests to:

1. Drift through the peaceful, winding waterways.
2. Marvel at the dramatic rock formations and cave entrances.
3. Observe the traditional lifestyles of the local villagers.
4. Appreciate the tranquil beauty of the Tam Coc region.

This serene boat ride completes the day’s activities, providing a picturesque finale to the Hoa Lu and Tam Coc tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour does not have any age restrictions. Travelers of all ages are welcome to participate in the full-day Hoa Lu and Tam Coc tour, which includes activities suitable for both adults and children.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour itinerary can’t be customized, as it’s a pre-set group tour. However, travelers can request additional stops or activities at an extra cost, subject to the tour provider’s approval and availability.

Is There an Option to Upgrade the Transportation?

Yes, there’s an option to upgrade the transportation for this tour. Customers can choose to upgrade to a private car or van for an additional fee, providing more comfort and flexibility during the day.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

The tour package doesn’t allow guests to bring their own food and drinks. All meals, including a buffet lunch, are provided as part of the tour. Guests are welcome to bring their own water bottles, though.

What Should I Bring for the Tour?

The tour provides bottled water, but guests should bring any other drinks or snacks they desire. Lightweight, comfortable clothing and walking shoes are recommended. Depending on the weather, a hat, sunscreen, and rain jacket may also be useful.

Recap

The Hoa Lu and Tam Coc Full Day Tour offers an immersive experience into Vietnam’s rich history and stunning natural landscapes. Visitors will explore ancient temples, cycle through traditional villages, and enjoy a serene bamboo boat ride amidst limestone cliffs and lush greenery. This tour provides a comprehensive and unforgettable glimpse into the beauty and cultural heritage of the Ninh Binh region.

You can check if your dates are available here: