Hoa Lu, Trang An and Mua Cave Full-day Tour

Visitors to Ninh Binh, Vietnam, won’t want to miss the Hoa Lu, Trang An, and Mua Cave Full-day Tour. This enriching excursion immerses travelers in the region’s captivating history and breathtaking natural landscapes. From exploring the ancient capital of Hoa Lu to gliding along the serene waters of Trang An, the day culminates with a climb to Mua Cave for sweeping views. It’s an adventure that seamlessly blends culture, nature, and awe-inspiring vistas, leaving guests eager to uncover more.

Key Points

• The full-day tour covers Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam, Trang An boat trip, and the Mua Cave climb, providing a comprehensive experience of Ninh Binh’s historical and natural attractions.
• The tour includes hotel pickup in Hanoi, a 3-hour transfer to Ninh Binh, guided visits to the key sites, a buffet lunch, and all entrance fees.
• At Hoa Lu, visitors can explore ancient temples, palaces, and citadels, gaining insights into the architectural and engineering achievements of the Dinh, Le, and Ly Dynasties.
• The Trang An boat trip offers a serene and scenic experience, while the Mua Cave climb to the summit of Lying Dragon Mountain provides panoramic views of the Tam Coc region.
• The tour is priced at $52.86 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it an accessible and flexible option for travelers.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This full-day tour takes visitors to explore the historical and natural wonders of Ninh Binh province, located just 100 km south of Hanoi.

The 11-hour experience includes visiting the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, a boat trip through the UNESCO-recognized Trang An, and a climb up Mua Cave.

Explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, cruise through UNESCO-recognized Trang An, and climb Mua Cave on this 11-hour adventure.

Priced from $52.86 per person, the tour offers hotel pickup in the Hanoi Old Quarter and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Lunch, an experienced guide, and all entrance fees are included.

Guests should wear comfortable clothing and hiking shoes for the day’s activities.

Pickup and Departure

The tour begins with pickup between 7:15 AM and 7:45 AM from hotels in Hanoi’s Old Quarter.

For those outside the area, an alternate pickup is available at the Hanoi Opera House.

The group departs for Ninh Binh, approximately 100 km from Hanoi.

The drive takes around 3 hours, with a complimentary bottle of mineral water provided during the transfer.

Upon arrival at 10:30 AM, the group visits the ancient capital of Hoa Lu to learn about its history under the Dinh, Le, and Ly Dynasties.

Hoa Lu: Ancient Capital of Vietnam

After the long drive from Hanoi, the group arrives at the historic site of Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam from 968 to 1010 AD.

They learn about the history of the region under the Dinh, Le, and Ly Dynasties. The guide explains how Hoa Lu served as the political, economic, and cultural center of the country during this period.

Hoa Lu served as the political, economic, and cultural center of Vietnam under the Dinh, Le, and Ly Dynasties.

Visitors can explore the ancient temples, palaces, and citadels that remain, gaining insights into the architectural and engineering feats of the time.

The visit to Hoa Lu offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich past, setting the stage for the rest of the day’s adventures.

Lunch

After the morning’s exploration of Hoa Lu, the group sits down for a buffet lunch featuring local Vietnamese cuisine with vegetarian options.

The spread includes steaming pho, fragrant rice dishes, fresh spring rolls, and sizzling grilled meats. Diners can sample a variety of regional specialties, from the robust flavors of northern fare to the balanced tastes of central Vietnam.

Vegetarians won’t feel left out, with an array of veggie-based dishes and tofu options. The relaxed atmosphere provides a chance to recharge before the afternoon’s activities in the scenic Trang An landscape.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Trang An Boat Trip

Once the group has savored the local flavors of the buffet lunch, they make their way to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Trang An.

They board bamboo boats to explore the scenic landscape of limestone karsts, caves, and rivers. The boat ride takes them through the tunnel cave system, which offers a unique perspective of this natural wonder.

Guiding the boats are skilled local rowers, allowing visitors to sit back and take in the serene beauty of the surroundings. This boat trip is a highlight of the tour, providing a peaceful and immersive experience in Trang An’s remarkable environment.

Optional Cycling Tour

Following the boat trip through the Trang An landscape, the tour offers an optional cycling activity. This activity allows visitors to explore the local village and experience daily rural life in Ninh Binh. The cycling tour provides an opportunity to take in the region’s natural beauty and cultural charm.

| Highlights | Duration | Distance | Difficulty |

| — | — | — | — |

| Peaceful countryside | 45 minutes | 5 km | Easy |

| Traditional village life | | | |

| Scenic rice fields | | | |

| Local interaction | | | |

The cycling activity is a wonderful addition to the comprehensive Hoa Lu, Trang An, and Mua Cave tour, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the unique charm of Ninh Binh.

Mua Cave and Lying Dragon Mountain

The tour’s final stop is the impressive Mua Cave, also known as the "Dancing Cave."

Visitors ascend the 500 steps to the summit of Lying Dragon Mountain, which rewards them with panoramic vistas of the picturesque Tam Coc region. The climb is challenging but worth the effort, offering:

• Breathtaking views of the winding rivers, limestone cliffs, and lush green landscapes

• An opportunity to explore the unique geological formations within Mua Cave

• A chance to connect with the natural beauty and tranquility of the surrounding area

• A sense of accomplishment from conquering the steep staircase to the mountaintop.

Inclusions and What to Bring

The tour package includes a range of amenities to enhance the overall experience.

Complimentary limousine pickup and drop-off in the Hanoi Old Quarter, along with a free bottle of mineral water during the transfer, ensure a comfortable journey.

Complimentary limousine service and free bottled water ensure a comfortable journey to and from the Hanoi Old Quarter.

Guests will enjoy a buffet lunch featuring local Vietnamese cuisine, including vegetarian options.

An experienced English-speaking guide will provide historical insights throughout the tour.

Entrance fees and a bamboo boat ride in Trang An are included.

Visitors should wear comfortable clothing and hiking shoes, and bring cash for personal expenses.

Since You Asked

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour’s maximum group size is not specified. The provided information focuses on the tour details, itinerary, and inclusions, but does not mention the group size. Without explicit details, the group size is unknown.

Is There an Option to Visit the Hoa Lu Temples?

Yes, the tour includes a visit to the Hoa Lu ancient capital, where visitors can learn about the history of the Dinh, Le, and Ly Dynasties. This is a key highlight of the day’s itinerary.

Can I Bring My Own Food for the Lunch?

The tour does not allow participants to bring their own food for the included buffet lunch. Meals are provided as part of the tour package and consist of local Vietnamese cuisine with vegetarian options.

Is the Boat Ride at Trang an Wheelchair Accessible?

The boat ride at Trang An is not wheelchair accessible. The tour involves navigating narrow waterways and uneven terrain, which may pose challenges for those with mobility issues. Visitors are advised to consider their physical capabilities before booking this activity.

Is There an Option to Skip the Mua Cave Climb?

Yes, there’s an option to skip the Mua Cave climb. The tour itinerary includes visiting Mua Cave, but the climb to Lying Dragon Mountain is optional. Guests can choose not to do the climb if they prefer.

Final Words

This full-day tour offers a captivating blend of Vietnam’s history and natural wonders. Visitors explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, embark on a serene boat trip through Trang An’s scenic landscapes, and climb to the summit of Mua Cave for breathtaking views. It’s an unforgettable journey that immerses travelers in the rich cultural heritage and stunning beauty of Ninh Binh.

You can check if your dates are available here: