The "Hoa Lu – Trang An Boat Trip & Mua Cave Small Group Tour" promises an immersive experience for visitors seeking to explore Vietnam’s natural and historical wonders. This 12-hour small-group tour takes participants on a journey through the ancient Hoa Lu capital, a scenic cycling adventure, and a captivating boat cruise through the UNESCO-listed Trang An Scenic Landscape. But what awaits at the summit of Mua Cave?
Key Points
- This small-group tour offers an immersive experience in Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, and Mua Cave.
- The tour includes transportation, an English-speaking guide, lunch, and complimentary amenities, priced from $50.83 per person.
- Highlights include a guided exploration of Dinh and Le King Temples, a cycling adventure through villages and rice fields, and a 2.5-hour boat cruise in Trang An.
- Visitors can hike to Mua Cave and Ngoa Long Mountain for panoramic views of Tam Coc.
- The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or individuals with vertigo.
Tour Overview
This tour offers an immersive experience exploring the historic Hoa Lu ancient capital, the scenic Trang An landscapes, and the captivating Mua Cave in Ninh Binh province.
Priced from $50.83 per person, the 12-hour small-group tour is limited to 8 participants, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Highlights include visiting ancient temples, cycling through villages, a boat cruise through caves and temples, and hiking for panoramic views.
The tour includes transportation, an English-speaking guide, lunch, and complimentary amenities.
It’s not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with vertigo.
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Itinerary Highlights
The tour begins with a visit to the historic Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, where guests explore the 17th-century Dinh and Le King Temples under the guidance of a knowledgeable tour guide for about an hour.
Next, participants embark on a cycling adventure, weaving through picturesque villages and lush rice fields for an hour.
Afterwards, they savor a delicious local Vietnamese lunch at a restaurant.
The highlight of the day is the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex boat cruise, where guests glide through serene caves and temples, including Lam Cave and Cao Sơn Temple, for 2.5 hours.
The tour culminates with a hike to Mua Cave and Ngoa Long Mountain, offering panoramic views of Tam Coc.
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
The first stop on the tour is the historic Hoa Lu Ancient Capital.
Visitors will explore the 17th-century Dinh and Le King Temples with a guided tour. They’ll learn about the temples’ architectural features and the rich history of this former Vietnamese capital.
After the tour, guests will have an opportunity to cycle through the surrounding villages and rice fields, seeing the rural landscape.
This experience provides a glimpse into the country’s past and a chance to appreciate the serene beauty of the Ninh Binh countryside.
Cycling Experience
After exploring the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, guests embark on a cycling experience through the surrounding villages and rice fields.
This 1-hour ride allows them to enjoy the rural landscapes of the Ninh Binh province. Cycling along winding paths, they’ll witness local daily life and witness the lush green paddy fields.
The gentle pedaling provides a refreshing break from the bus ride. This cycling segment offers a unique perspective and a chance to connect with the region’s tranquil countryside before continuing the tour.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyLunch
Following the cycling experience, the tour participants head to a local restaurant to enjoy a Vietnamese-style buffet lunch.
The spread features an array of traditional dishes, from steaming rice and fragrant curries to fresh spring rolls and sautéed vegetables. Guests can sample a variety of flavors and culinary specialties, all while taking a break from the day’s activities.
The leisurely meal provides an opportunity to recharge and refuel before the next part of the adventure.
After an hour of dining, the group prepares to embark on the boat cruise at the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex.
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Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex
Departing the local restaurant, the group boards a boat to explore the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex.
They cruise through an intricate system of caves and temples, including the serene Lam Cave and the picturesque Cao Sơn Temple. The tranquil waterways wind through the dramatic limestone cliffs, offering breathtaking vistas.
Guides provide commentary, sharing the history and significance of the sites. The 2.5-hour boat trip immerses the group in the natural beauty and cultural heritage of this UNESCO World Heritage landscape.
Guides share the history and significance of the sites as the group immerses in the natural beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage landscape.
With each passing minute, the sense of wonder and appreciation grows.
Mua Cave & Ngoa Long Mountain
From the serene waterways of the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, the group now makes its way to the iconic Mua Cave and Ngoa Long Mountain.
Guests embark on a 1.5-hour hike up the steep steps of Ngoa Long, offering panoramic vistas of the Tam Coc region. At the summit, travelers are rewarded with breathtaking views across the karst landscape.
Afterwards, the group explores Mua Cave, a must-see attraction featuring striking rock formations. This portion of the tour provides an exhilarating and scenic counterpoint to the earlier boat cruise, capping off a diverse day of exploration in Northern Vietnam.
Transportation and Amenities
The tour includes comfortable bus transportation with an experienced driver, as well as an English-speaking guide to accompany the group throughout the day.
Bottled mineral water is provided, and a buffet lunch at a local restaurant is included.
To make the tour more comfortable, guests receive a complimentary hat, umbrella, and raincoat.
Tips for the guide and driver are also covered in the tour price.
Soft drinks or additional services not mentioned are available at an extra cost.
Since You Asked
Is the Tour Suitable for Children?
The tour may not be suitable for children. The itinerary includes activities like hiking and boat rides that could be challenging for young kids. It’s best to check with the tour operator for specific age restrictions or recommendations.
Can I Exchange My Tour Currency at the Destinations?
The tour doesn’t mention the ability to exchange currency at the destinations. It’s best to exchange money prior to the tour or use a credit/debit card for purchases along the way.
Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required?
The tour has a minimum group size of 8 participants. The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 people, so there’s no minimum number of participants required. This small group size ensures a more personalized experience.
Are There Any Restrictions on Camera Usage During the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have any restrictions on camera usage. Participants are encouraged to bring their cameras to capture the scenic landscapes and historic sites throughout the day-long excursion.
Can I Add Extra Activities or Extend the Tour Duration?
Yes, travelers can add extra activities or extend the tour duration. The tour operator can customize the itinerary to meet individual needs, though additional costs may apply. It’s best to contact them directly to discuss any changes.
Final Words
This small-group tour offers an immersive experience, showcasing Vietnam’s natural and historical wonders. Participants will explore the ancient Hoa Lu capital, cycle through picturesque villages, and embark on a captivating boat cruise through the Trang An Scenic Landscape. The tour also includes a hike to Mua Cave for breathtaking views and a traditional Vietnamese lunch, providing a well-rounded and enriching adventure.
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