Hoa Lu and Tam Coc in Ninh Binh Full Day Tour

Nestled in the heart of Vietnam’s Ninh Binh province, the Hoa Lu and Tam Coc full-day tour offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Travelers can enjoy the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, then embark on a serene boat ride through the stunning landscapes of Tam Coc, widely known as the "Ha Long Bay on Land." But the true highlight of this experience may surprise even the most seasoned adventurers.

Key Points

• This full-day tour takes visitors to Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam, and the scenic Tam Coc region, known for its limestone karst formations and river caves.
• The tour includes a traditional sampan boat ride through three caves in Tam Coc, a cycling tour around the area, and a buffet lunch at a local restaurant.
• Transportation, entrance fees, and an English-speaking guide are provided, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience for participants.
• The tour offers the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.
• Amenities such as bottled water, conical hats, and raincoats are included, making the tour comfortable and accommodating for participants.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

Although the tour offers a full-day experience visiting Hoa Lu and Tam Coc, the price starts from just $46.76 per person.

Lasting one day, the tour includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.

Highlights include visiting the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, a buffet lunch, and a 1.5-hour bamboo boat tour in Tam Coc.

The tour provides an English-speaking guide, entrance fees, transportation, and some amenities. Tips for the guide and personal expenses aren’t included.

Participants should check availability for their desired date.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter or Opera House at 07h25-08h00.

The tour begins with a pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter or Opera House between 07h25-08h00.

After a short break around 09h15, the group will visit Hoa Lu, the ancient capital from 968-1010.

They’ll enjoy a buffet lunch at NinhBinh Excursion Restaurant with local and vegetarian options.

The highlight is a 1.5-hour bamboo boat tour in Tam Coc, known as "Ha Long Bay on land."

The tour wraps up with a return bus to Hanoi, arriving between 17h30-18h00.

Activities include a traditional sampan boat ride, cycling around Tam Coc, and an English-speaking guide.

Activities Included

The tour includes a traditional sampan boat ride through three caves in Tam Coc, where visitors can marvel at the stunning limestone formations and serene waterways.

Guests will also enjoy a cycling tour around Tam Coc and nearby villages, allowing them to explore the local culture and scenery at a leisurely pace.

An English-speaking live tour guide accompanies the group, providing insights and information throughout the day.

All entrance fees are included, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience for participants.

Transportation and Amenities

Participants are transported via a comfortable limousine bus with 17 seats for the duration of the tour.

A comfortable limousine bus with 17 seats transports participants throughout the duration of the tour.

The amenities included in the tour package are:

• One bottle of water per person to stay hydrated throughout the day

• Free usage of conical hats and raincoats depending on the weather conditions

• English-speaking live tour guide to provide insights and information

• Entrance fees to all the included activities covered in the tour price

• Pickup and drop-off service at hotels in Hanoi’s Old Quarter or Opera House area.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Exploring Hoa Lu, the Ancient Capital

After a short break, the tour group arrives at Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam from 968 to 1010 AD.

They explore the historical temples and shrines, learning about the rich history of the Dinh and Le dynasties.

The guide explains the significance of the site, which served as the political and cultural center of the country during its heyday.

The group wanders through the ruins, imagining what life was like centuries ago in this once-thriving capital.

They gain a deeper appreciation for Vietnam’s long and storied past as they explore the remnants of this ancient seat of power.

Discovering Tam Coc, the "Ha Long Bay on Land"

Next, the group moves on to explore Tam Coc, often referred to as the "Ha Long Bay on land." Hopping onto traditional sampan boats, they glide through the breathtaking limestone cliffs and verdant rice paddies that line the Ngo Dong River.

The tranquil journey offers a unique perspective of the region’s natural beauty:

A tranquil journey offering a unique perspective of the region’s natural beauty.

• Passing through three picturesque caves carved through the mountains

• Witnessing water buffaloes grazing in the lush paddy fields

• Observing local villagers going about their daily lives

• Admiring the intricate karst formations along the river banks

• Feeling a sense of serenity and connection with the serene environment.

Dining Experience at Ninh Binh Excursion Restaurant

At noon, the group enjoys a delectable buffet lunch at the Ninh Binh Excursion Restaurant, where they can savor a variety of local culinary specialties as well as vegetarian choices.

The restaurant offers a spread of authentic Vietnamese dishes, including fragrant rice, flavorful stir-fries, and fresh salads. Guests can sample regional favorites like pho, banh mi, and spring rolls, all prepared with locally sourced ingredients.

The buffet caters to diverse dietary needs, ensuring that everyone can indulge in a satisfying and wholesome midday meal.

After lunch, the group is rejuvenated and ready to embark on the next leg of the Tam Coc adventure.

Additional Information and Booking Details

When booking the Hoa Lu and Tam Coc Tour, there are a few additional details to consider. Tips for the tour guide and personal expenses aren’t included in the tour price.

It’s important to check availability for the desired participants and date. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and customers can reserve their spot and pay later.

Plus, the tour includes:

• One bottle of water per person

• Free usage of conical hat/raincoat depending on weather

• English-speaking live tour guide

• Entrance fees

• Limousine bus transportation

Since You Asked

What Are the Payment Options for the Tour?

The tour offers two payment options: pay in full upfront or reserve the spot and pay later. Customers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?

The tour has a set itinerary, but travelers can’t customize it. However, they can request additional stops or activities, which the tour provider may be able to accommodate for an extra fee, depending on availability and logistics.

Are There Any Special Requirements for the Bamboo Boat Ride?

There are no special requirements for the bamboo boat ride. Participants simply need to board the traditional sampan boat and enjoy the scenic journey through Tam Coc’s three caves. The boat can accommodate up to 2 people.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There’s no mention of an option to extend the tour duration. The itinerary clearly states the tour is a 1-day excursion from pickup to drop-off in Hanoi.

How Physically Demanding Is the Cycling Tour Around Tam Coc?

The cycling tour around Tam Coc is moderately physically demanding. It involves cycling through scenic countryside and local villages, but the terrain is generally flat and suitable for most fitness levels. Participants can take breaks as needed.

Final Words

The Hoa Lu and Tam Coc full-day tour offers a captivating blend of Vietnam’s historical and natural wonders. Visitors can enjoy the ancient capital, embark on a serene boat ride through Tam Coc’s stunning landscapes, and savor a delicious lunch, all within the comfort of reliable transportation and amenities. This tour provides an enriching experience that showcases the cultural and scenic treasures of the Ninh Binh region.

You can check if your dates are available here: