Ninh Binh Full Day – Mua Cave – Tam Coc Boating – Hoa Lu

Ninh Binh, a northern Vietnamese province, boasts a captivating blend of historical significance and breathtaking natural landscapes. The Ninh Binh Full Day tour promises to immerse visitors in this enchanting region, offering a chance to explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, drift through the serene waterways of Tam Coc, and ascend the Mua Cave for panoramic vistas. This comprehensive day-long adventure unveils the rich cultural heritage and picturesque wonders that make Ninh Binh a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic Vietnamese experience. What awaits those who embark on this captivating journey?

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Full-Day Tours In Ninh Binh.

Key Points

• Full-day Ninh Binh tour that includes visits to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, a 1.5-hour boat cruise in Tam Coc, and a hike up Mua Cave.
• Tour is priced at $52.81 per person, with a $10 surcharge during Lunar New Year holidays.
• Itinerary includes pickup and drop-off in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, a buffet lunch, and an English-speaking guide.
• Hoa Lu Ancient Capital offers insights into Vietnam’s historical dynasties, while the Tam Coc boat cruise showcases stunning limestone landscapes.
• The Mua Cave hike provides panoramic views of the Tam Coc region’s picturesque countryside.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This Ninh Binh tour offers a comprehensive full-day experience, allowing visitors to explore the region’s historical and natural wonders.

Priced from $52.81 per person, the tour includes a 10-hour itinerary with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Highlights include visiting the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, taking a 1.5-hour boat cruise in Tam Coc, and hiking up Mua Cave for panoramic views.

Pickup and drop-off within Hanoi’s Old Quarter, a buffet lunch, all entrance tickets, and an English-speaking guide are included.

Travelers can opt to reserve now and pay later. A $10 per person surcharge applies during Lunar New Year holidays.

Itinerary Highlights

The Ninh Binh full-day tour begins with a pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter or Opera House, embarking on a 2.5-hour journey to the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital.

Travelers will explore the historic site, learning about the Dinh, Le, and Ly dynasties that once ruled from this location.

Following a 1-hour buffet lunch with vegetarian options, the tour proceeds to the serene Tam Coc area for a 1.5-hour boat cruise along the river, surrounded by stunning limestone cliffs and lush paddy fields.

The final highlight is the Mua Cave, where a 500-step hike leads to a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the breathtaking Tam Coc landscape.

Detailed Itinerary

Departing from Hanoi’s Old Quarter or Opera House between 7:15 and 8:00 am, the tour sets out on a 2.5-hour journey via limousine to the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital.

Guests will spend an hour exploring this historic site, learning about the Dinh, Le, and Ly dynasties.

After a 1-hour buffet lunch with vegetarian options, the highlight of the tour begins – a 1.5-hour boat cruise on the scenic Tam Coc river.

The itinerary culminates with a 1.5-hour hike up the 500 stairs of Mua Cave, offering panoramic views of the stunning Tam Coc landscape.

The tour returns to Hanoi’s Old Quarter between 7:00 and 7:30 pm.

• Hoa Lu Ancient Capital exploration
• Tam Coc boat cruise
• Mua Cave hike

Pickup and Departure

Guests embark on the Ninh Binh tour with a pickup from either Hanoi’s Old Quarter or Opera House between 7:15 and 8:00 am. They depart from Hoan Kiem via limousine and enjoy a 2.5-hour journey to the historic Hoa Lu region. The itinerary is as follows:

Time	Activity
7:15 – 8:00 am	Pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter or Opera House
2.5 hours	Travel to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
1 hour	Explore the historic capital and learn about Dinh, Le, and Ly dynasties
1 hour	Enjoy a buffet lunch with vegetarian options

The journey ahead promises a day filled with captivating sights, cultural exploration, and memorable experiences.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Hoa Lu Visit

Upon arriving at the historic Hoa Lu site, visitors are immediately immersed in the region’s captivating past.

As the former capital of Vietnam from 968 to 1010 AD, Hoa Lu offers a glimpse into the influential Dinh, Le, and Ly dynasties that once ruled the land.

During the visit, guests can:

• Explore the remains of ancient palace structures and religious temples
• Wander through picturesque courtyards and gardens, capturing the essence of this time-honored location
• Learn about the strategic importance of Hoa Lu and its role in shaping Vietnamese history from the knowledgeable guide

This insightful exploration of Hoa Lu’s rich heritage sets the stage for the next captivating experiences of the day.

Tam Coc Boat Cruise

Next, visitors embark on the serene Tam Coc boat cruise, gliding along the Ngo Dong River. For 1.5 hours, they float past limestone cliffs, lush rice paddies, and picturesque caves.

The tranquil journey offers a chance to soak in the stunning natural landscapes that earned Tam Coc the nickname "Halong Bay on Land." Rowers expertly navigate the narrow waterways, allowing guests to enjoy the serene environment.

This peaceful boat ride provides a refreshing respite from the bustling cities, offering a glimpse into the rural Vietnamese countryside and its timeless beauty.

Mua Cave Visit

After the serene boat cruise, visitors make their way to Mua Cave, also known as Lying Dragon Mountain.

Scaling 500 steps, they’re rewarded with a panoramic vista of Tam Coc’s breathtaking landscapes. The hike is moderately challenging, but the payoff is well worth it.

At the summit, visitors can:

• Marvel at the dramatic limestone karsts rising from the lush paddy fields
• Snap photos of the serene river winding through the verdant countryside
• Savor the tranquil ambiance and absorb the natural beauty of the region

This iconic viewpoint offers an unforgettable experience, capping off an immersive exploration of Ninh Binh’s captivating natural wonders.

Inclusions and Additional Information

The tour includes pickup and drop-off within Hanoi’s Old Quarter, a buffet lunch with vegetarian options, all entrance fees, an English-speaking guide, and complimentary drinks. Plus, there is a surcharge of $10 per person on the Lunar New Year holiday. Please note that the itinerary is subject to change, so it’s essential to check availability for specific dates and times.

Inclusion	Details
Transportation	Pickup and drop-off within Hanoi Old Quarter
Meals	Buffet lunch with vegetarian options
Entrance Fees	All entrance tickets
Guide	English-speaking guide
Drinks	Complimentary drinks

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring a Drone on the Tour?

The tour’s policies do not permit bringing drones. Guests are advised to respect local regulations and leave their drones at home to avoid any issues during the excursion.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

Yes, the tour offers a private option. Travelers can book a private tour for their group, allowing for a more customized experience and flexibility during the day’s activities. Prices for the private tour may vary.

Can I Customize the Itinerary?

Yes, you can customize the itinerary for this Ninh Binh tour. The tour provider offers flexibility, allowing you to adjust the activities and duration to suit your interests and preferences.

Are There Any Discounts for Students or Seniors?

Yes, the tour operator offers a 10% discount for students and seniors. Simply provide valid student or senior ID upon booking to receive the discounted rate. Discounts are not available for the Lunar New Year holiday surcharge.

What Should I Wear for the Hiking Portion?

For the hiking portion, comfortable, lightweight clothing and sturdy walking shoes are recommended. Dress in layers as the temperature may change, and bring sun protection like a hat or sunglasses.

Recap

The Ninh Binh Full Day tour offers a captivating combination of cultural exploration and natural wonder. Visitors will explore Vietnam’s rich past, drift through the stunning landscapes of Tam Coc, and climb to breathtaking viewpoints at Mua Cave. This immersive adventure promises an unforgettable experience that showcases the region’s captivating sights and cultural insights.

You can check if your dates are available here: