Mua Caves, Van Long Nature Reserve, Hoa Lu Private Day Trip

The private day trip to Mua Caves, Van Long Nature Reserve, and Hoa Lu ancient capital offers an opportunity to explore some of Northern Vietnam’s most breathtaking landscapes. Visitors can challenge themselves with a hike up the Mua Caves for panoramic views, discover the historical temples of Hoa Lu, and enjoy a serene boat ride through the tranquil Van Long wetlands. With delectable local cuisine and the chance to immerse in rural Vietnamese culture, this adventure promises an unforgettable experience.

Key Points

• This private day trip from Hanoi explores the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, the scenic Van Long Nature Reserve, and the panoramic Mua Caves.

• The tour is priced from $105.36 per person and includes hotel pickup/drop-off, boat trip, entrance fees, private guide, lunch, and water.

• The itinerary highlights visits to Dinh King and Le King temples, a biking excursion to a rural village, and a sampan boat trip in Van Long Nature Reserve.

• The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and swimming is prohibited; modest dress is required at the temples.

• Cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and dietary restrictions can be accommodated with advance notice.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This private day trip offers a comprehensive exploration of Hoa Lu ancient capital, Van Long Nature Reserve, and Mua Cave.

It’s priced from $105.36 per person and lasts 1 day. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a boat trip, entrance fees, a private guide, lunch, and water.

Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. It’s not suitable for wheelchair users, and certain activities like swimming are prohibited.

Guests with dietary restrictions should inform the operator beforehand. The itinerary may change due to weather or operating conditions.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Hanoi’s city center, followed by a 2-hour drive to the Hoa Lu ancient capital.

Visitors explore the Dinh King and Le King temples from the 10th century. Next, they bike to a rural village before enjoying a local Vietnamese lunch.

The tour then travels to Van Long Nature Reserve for a sampan boat trip.

The final stop is Mua Cave, where guests can take in panoramic views of the countryside and Ngo Dong river.

The tour returns to Hanoi in the evening, dropping guests off at their hotel.

Detailed Schedule

The tour begins at 7:30-8:00 with pickup from the guest’s hotel in Hanoi’s city center.

The group travels for approximately 2 hours to Hoa Lu, with a 20-minute break.

At Hoa Lu, they’ll visit the ancient capital’s Dinh King temple and Le King temple from the 10th century.

Next, they’ll bike to a rural local village.

After, they’ll have lunch at a local restaurant, with vegetarian options available.

The tour then continues with a sampan boat trip at Van Long Nature Reserve, followed by a visit to Mua Cave.

The day ends with a return to Hanoi by 7:00-7:30 PM.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes pickup and drop-off at the hotel by an air-conditioned private car, a boat trip to Van Long Nature Reserve, all entrance fees as per the itinerary, a private English-speaking tour guide, a Vietnamese cuisine lunch, two bottles of mineral water per person, and a traditional hat per person.

Bicycles are also provided for the biking segment.

However, the price excludes beverages, any Tet holiday fees, personal expenses, and gratuities for the guide and driver.

Guests with dietary restrictions should advise the local operator in advance, and those with disabilities can’t participate in water sports.

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Important Information

Not suitable for wheelchair users, as the nature reserve and hiking trails may pose accessibility challenges.

Guests aren’t allowed to bring pets, weapons, sharp objects, or engage in jumping, swimming, or snorkeling activities.

Itineraries may change based on weather and operating conditions, so flexibility is advised.

Dietary restrictions should be communicated to the local operator in advance.

Disabled guests can’t partake in water sports.

There’s an option to skip the biking segment and relax at the restaurant or explore the local village.

Temples require modest dress, with no shorts allowed.

Pickup and Drop-off Details

Hotel pickup and drop-off are included in the tour package.

The tour kicks off with pickup from your hotel in the Hanoi city center between 7:30-8:00 AM. After the 2-hour drive to Hoa Lu, you’ll be dropped off at 10:20-10:30 AM.

At the end of the day, you’ll be returned to your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter between 7:00-7:30 PM.

Throughout the journey, you’ll travel in a private, air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking guide. This door-to-door service ensures a seamless and comfortable day trip experience.

Local Culture and Cuisine

During the day trip, visitors have the opportunity to enjoy the rich local culture and cuisine of the region.

The highlight is a stop at a local restaurant for a traditional Vietnamese lunch. Guests can savor an array of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, showcasing the diverse flavors and ingredients of the area.

A traditional Vietnamese lunch featuring an array of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes showcasing the diverse flavors of the region.

After lunch, visitors can explore a nearby rural village by bicycle, providing a glimpse into the daily lives of the local people.

This interactive cultural experience allows travelers to connect with the unique heritage of the Ninh Binh province.

Frequently Asked Questions

Visitors commonly inquire about the logistics and requirements for this private day trip.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and pets, weapons, sharp objects, jumping, swimming, and snorkeling are prohibited. Dietary restrictions should be communicated to the local operator in advance.

Disabled guests can’t participate in water sports. Guests have the option to skip the biking segment and relax at the restaurant or explore the local village.

A modest dress code is required, as no shorts are allowed in temples. Itineraries may change based on weather and operating conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

According to the tour details, guests are not allowed to bring their own food and drinks. The tour includes 2 bottles of mineral water per person and a local Vietnamese lunch at a restaurant. Personal expenses and additional beverages are excluded.

What Should I Bring for the Boat Trip?

For the boat trip, it’s best to bring a light jacket or rain poncho, as the weather can be unpredictable. You’ll also want to bring your camera to capture the scenic views. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as well.

Is There a Limit on the Number of People per Group?

There doesn’t appear to be a specific group size limit mentioned. The tour is described as a private day trip, suggesting it can accommodate smaller groups. Guests should confirm the group size with the local operator when booking.

Can I Take Photos Inside the Temples?

Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photos inside the temples, but they should be respectful and avoid disrupting religious ceremonies. However, flash photography may be prohibited in certain areas to preserve the sanctity of the spaces.

Is the Tour Available in Languages Other Than English?

Yes, the tour is available in other languages besides English. Travelers can request guides who speak languages like Chinese, Japanese, and French when booking the tour.

The Sum Up

The Mua Caves, Hoa Lu ancient capital, and Van Long Nature Reserve offer a captivating day trip that combines breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and serene boat rides. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty and history of the region, while savoring delicious local cuisine. This private day trip provides a well-rounded experience that showcases the highlights of Ninh Binh, making it a must-see destination in Vietnam.

You can check if your dates are available here: