Ninh Binh’s buffalo riding and rice planting group tour offers a captivating culture for travelers seeking an authentic Vietnamese experience. This comprehensive 4-hour excursion blends hands-on activities, such as buffalo feeding and riding, with visits to stunning natural landscapes and sacred sites. Guided by knowledgeable experts, participants can expect to engage with the region’s agricultural heritage, connect with local communities, and savor the flavors of traditional Vietnamese cuisine. Whether you’re a couple, a group, or a family, this tour promises to immerse you in the rich tapestry of Ninh Binh’s timeless traditions and natural beauty. Now, the question remains: what unexpected discoveries might await you on this captivating adventure?
Key Points

- This group tour in Ninh Binh offers a combination of buffalo riding, rice planting, fishing, and cooking class to immerse visitors in local activities.
- The tour is priced at $42.96 per person and includes feeding and bathing buffaloes, buffalo riding, fishing, rice planting, waterfall and cave visits, and a cooking class.
- Participants will learn the traditional ‘nom’ fishing method, join villagers in rice transplanting, and explore the Hang Mua Caves and Bich Dong Pagoda.
- The cooking class teaches participants to prepare authentic Vietnamese dishes using locally-sourced ingredients under the guidance of expert culinary instructors.
- The tour is led by English-speaking guides and provides necessary equipment, bottled water, and a delectable meal, ensuring a hassle-free and enriching experience.
👉 Check out our guide to the 20 Best 2 Day Tours In Ninh Binh
Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview
- Pricing and Booking
- Buffalo Feeding and Riding
- Fishing and Rice Planting
- Waterfall Bathing and Cave Visit
- Cooking Class and Meal
- Tour Inclusions
- Tour Exclusions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Cancel the Tour at Any Time?
- How Many People Are Typically in a Group?
- Is the Tour Accessible for Guests With Disabilities?
- Can I Bring My Own Food or Drinks?
- What Is the Refund Policy if I Am Unsatisfied?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Ninh Binh
- More Tours in Ninh Binh
- More Tour Reviews in Ninh Binh
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Ninh Binh we have recnetly reviewed
Tour Overview

The tour offers a combination of buffalo riding, rice planting, fishing, and a cooking class, catering to various participant types like couples, groups, and families.
The duration of the tour is 4 hours, providing ample time to take in the local activities.
Participants can expect to feed and shower the buffalo, go for a buffalo ride, fish using the traditional ‘nom’ method, plant rice alongside locals, visit a waterfall and Buffalo Cave, and participate in a cooking class.
The tour is led by English-speaking guides, ensuring a seamless and informative experience for all.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Ninh Binh.
Pricing and Booking

From $42.96 per person, the tour offers a reserve now, pay later option, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers.
This flexible pricing structure allows visitors to book their spot on the tour without the immediate financial burden.
Whether traveling as a couple, a group, or a family, the tour caters to various participant types, ensuring an enriching experience for all.
Prices may vary depending on the size and composition of the group, but the tour remains an affordable and convenient option for those looking to enjoy the rural traditions of Ninh Binh.
With the reserve now, pay later feature, securing a spot on this unique tour has never been easier.
Buffalo Feeding and Riding

Integral to the tour experience, visitors engage in the time-honored practice of feeding and showering the graceful water buffaloes that inhabit the lush paddy fields of Ninh Binh. Under the guidance of local farmers, participants delight in hand-feeding the gentle creatures and witnessing the traditional bathing ritual, a serene moment amidst the tranquil surroundings.
Following this hands-on encounter, the thrill of buffalo riding awaits. Guests climb aboard the massive beasts and embark on a leisurely trek through the verdant landscape, offering a unique perspective on the region’s agricultural heritage.
This immersive activity provides a genuine connection to the local way of life, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for the symbiotic relationship between man and nature in Ninh Binh.
Fishing and Rice Planting

After seeing the traditional buffalo-related activities, participants then transition to the time-honored practices of fishing and rice planting, further deepening their connection to the agrarian lifestyle of Ninh Binh.
Under the guidance of local experts, guests learn the ‘nom’ fishing method, using handcrafted tools to catch fish from the rivers. Next, they join villagers in transplanting rice seedlings, getting hands-on experience with this labor-intensive but essential agricultural work.
These activities not only educate participants but also foster a greater appreciation for the daily routines and livelihoods of the Ninh Binh community. Through these immersive experiences, the tour offers a well-rounded exploration of the region’s cultural heritage.
More Great Tours NearbyWaterfall Bathing and Cave Visit

Following the immersive fishing and rice planting experiences, participants then venture to the serene Hang Mua Caves and Bich Dong Pagoda.
Here, they can bask in the tranquility of the area’s natural beauty, including a refreshing dip in the cascading Hang Mua Waterfall. This provides a peaceful respite before concluding the tour’s activities.
The Hang Mua Caves, known for their dramatic limestone formations, offer an opportunity to explore the underground world. Nearby, the Bich Dong Pagoda, nestled amidst lush greenery, adds a spiritual dimension to the experience.
The waterfall’s cool waters and picturesque setting allow participants to unwind and rejuvenate before returning from this comprehensive Ninh Binh adventure.
Cooking Class and Meal

The tour culminates in a hands-on cooking class, where participants learn to prepare authentic Vietnamese dishes using locally-sourced ingredients. Led by expert culinary instructors, the class provides an immersive opportunity for guests to master the art of traditional Vietnamese cuisine. Participants will have the chance to create a variety of dishes, from fragrant spring rolls to sizzling beef pho. The class is designed to be both educational and enjoyable, allowing visitors to gain a deeper appreciation for the rich culinary heritage of the region.
| Dish | Ingredients | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Spring Rolls | Rice paper, vermicelli noodles, carrots, lettuce, herbs | Roll and wrap ingredients tightly in rice paper |
| Pho | Beef broth, rice noodles, thinly sliced beef, bean sprouts, lime | Simmer broth, cook noodles, assemble and garnish |
| Banh Mi | French baguette, pork, pickled vegetables, cilantro, chili sauce | Prepare fillings, assemble sandwich |
| Cha Ca | Turmeric-marinated fish, dill, green onions, peanuts | Pan-fry fish, toss with aromatics |
Tour Inclusions

This immersive tour package includes an array of engaging activities and services to deliver a well-rounded cultural experience in Ninh Binh.
An English-speaking guide accompanies participants throughout the tour, providing insights and facilitating smooth transitions between the various activities.
Travelers are outfitted with the necessary equipment and tools to partake in the hands-on experiences, such as buffalo feeding, rice planting, and fishing.
Quenching their thirst, bottled water is provided during the excursion.
The culinary highlight is a cooking class where guests learn to prepare authentic Vietnamese dishes under the guidance of expert instructors, culminating in a delectable meal.
The tour’s inclusive nature ensures a hassle-free and enriching exploration of Ninh Binh’s traditions and natural wonders.
Tour Exclusions

While the tour package covers a range of immersive experiences, there are a few additional costs that aren’t included. Tips for the guide and any personal expenses incurred during the tour are the responsibility of the participants.
Plus, any items not explicitly mentioned in the inclusions list won’t be provided as part of the tour. For example, if participants wish to purchase souvenirs or extra snacks, they’ll need to cover those costs themselves.
The tour price is all-inclusive for the listed activities, transportation, and meals, but doesn’t extend to everything visitors might want or need during their time in Ninh Binh. Travelers should plan accordingly and budget for these minor out-of-pocket expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Cancel the Tour at Any Time?
Yes, customers can typically cancel group tours at any time, though cancellation fees may apply depending on the tour provider’s policy. Flexible cancellation options allow participants to adjust their plans as needed.
How Many People Are Typically in a Group?
The typical group size for a group tour can vary, but generally ranges from a few participants up to around 10-15 people. The exact group size may depend on factors like the tour type and location.
Is the Tour Accessible for Guests With Disabilities?
The tour is generally accessible for guests with disabilities, though the specific accommodations may vary. Participants should inquire about accessibility when booking to ensure the tour meets their individual needs.
Can I Bring My Own Food or Drinks?
Guests are generally not allowed to bring their own food or drinks on the tour, as the package includes bottled water and a cooking class where a meal is provided. Any personal snacks or beverages would need to be pre-approved by the tour operator.
What Is the Refund Policy if I Am Unsatisfied?
The tour operator generally has a flexible refund policy if customers are unsatisfied. They’ll often provide a full or partial refund, depending on the reason and timing of the request. It’s best to check the specific policy before booking.
Ninh Binh: Buffalo Riding, Rice Planting Group Tour
“It was a fun and insightful and local experience! Would recommend!”
Recap
The Ninh Binh: Buffalo Riding, Rice Planting Group Tour offers a comprehensive cultural experience.
Participants can engage with the region’s agricultural heritage, including buffalo feeding and riding, fishing, rice planting, and a cooking class.
The tour also includes visits to Hang Mua Caves and Bich Dong Pagoda, allowing exploration of the natural beauty and spiritual aspects of Ninh Binh.
This immersive experience provides a unique opportunity to connect with the local way of life.
You can check availability for your dates here:



























