Ninh Binh : Full Day Tour in Hoa Lu, Trang An and Mua Cave

Ninh Binh’s full-day tour offers a captivating journey through the region’s storied past and breathtaking natural landscapes. Travelers embark on an expert-guided exploration of the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, enjoy the serene beauty of Trang An, and ascend the iconic Mua Cave for panoramic vistas. With convenient inclusions like lunch and entrance fees, this tour promises a seamless adventure that uncovers Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage and mesmerizing scenery. For those seeking an immersive experience that delves into the heart of this remarkable destination, the Ninh Binh tour is an opportunity not to be missed.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Tours In Northern Vietnam.

Key Points

• The full-day tour covers the highlights of Ninh Binh including Hoa Lu, Trang An, and Mua Cave, providing a comprehensive exploration of the region.
• The tour includes an English-speaking guide, lunch, bottled water, entrance fees, boat tour, and gratuities, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.
• The boat tour in Trang An allows visitors to enjoy the stunning natural landscapes of limestone formations and ancient temples.
• Visitors can climb the 500 steps to the summit of Mua Cave for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and rivers.
• The tour has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with guests praising the guide’s expertise, the quality of the food, and the breathtaking scenery.

Tour Overview

Offering a comprehensive exploration of Ninh Binh’s iconic landmarks, the full-day tour provided by Ninh Binh FootPrint Travel takes visitors on a journey through Hoa Lu, Trang An, and Mua Cave.

Priced at $48.57 per person, the tour accommodates a maximum of 15 travelers and starts at 8:30 am.

Inclusions cover an English-speaking guide, lunch, bottled water, all entrance fees, a boat tour in Trang An, and even gratuities.

Pickup is available from designated locations, with travelers advised to meet in their hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time.

The tour promises a memorable experience, as evidenced by the overwhelmingly positive reviews highlighting the guide’s expertise and the breathtaking landscapes.

Inclusions

The tour includes an English-speaking guide, who provides historical insights and cultural knowledge throughout the day.

Lunch and bottled water are also provided, ensuring travelers are well-nourished during the excursion.

Plus, all entrance fees to the various sites are covered, allowing seamless access to Hoa Lu, Trang An, and Mua Cave.

The experience is further enhanced with the inclusion of a boat tour in Trang An, where travelers can admire the stunning landscapes.

Refreshing cold napkins and other drinks are also available, making the tour a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

With these inclusions, the Ninh Binh Full Day Tour offers a well-rounded and comprehensive exploration of the region’s natural and cultural wonders.

Pickup Information

Pickup points are available, though travelers must confirm the location up to 24 hours before the activity. Guests should wait in their hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time, as the driver will hold a sign with their last name. This ensures a smooth and efficient start to the full-day tour.

Pickup Locations	Address
Hanoi Old Quarter	36 Hang Bong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Sofitel Legend Metropole	15 Ngo Quyen, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Hilton Hanoi Opera	1 Le Thanh Tong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Sheraton Hanoi Hotel	K5 Nghi Tam, Tay Ho, Hanoi
Melia Hanoi	44B Ly Thuong Kiet, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi

The pickup process is designed to ensure a seamless start to the Ninh Binh adventure.

Additional Information

Confirmations are received upon booking, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though service animals are allowed. Infants must sit on laps, and most travelers can participate in the experience.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of the experience. This provides flexibility for travelers who may need to adjust their plans.

Plus, the tour has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with a 5.0 overall rating based on 31 reviews. Travelers have praised the quality of the food and the guide’s historical insights, highlighting the breathtaking landscapes and cultural knowledge gained during the tour.

3 Key Highlights:

1. Boat tour in Trang An
2. Lunch and bottled water included
3. Gratuities covered

Reviews

Overwhelmingly positive reviews have highlighted the full-day tour’s exceptional experiences, with travelers praising the quality of the food and the guide’s insightful historical commentary.

The tour has an impressive 5.0 overall rating from 31 reviews, with visitors remarking on the stunning landscapes and the depth of cultural knowledge shared throughout the day.

One reviewer noted that the boat tour in Trang An was a standout, offering a serene and picturesque journey through the region’s distinctive karst formations.

Travelers also appreciated the convenience of included entrance fees and transportation, making the tour a seamless and enjoyable way to explore Ninh Binh’s top attractions.

Exploring Hoa Lu

The full-day tour kicks off with a visit to the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, where travelers can explore the remains of the 10th-century citadel and temples that once stood as the seat of the Dinh and early Le dynasties.

Here, visitors can:

1. Wander through the ruins of the former palace, imagining the grandeur of the ancient capital.

2. Visit the restored temples, which offer insights into the religious and cultural practices of the time.

3. Climb the nearby mountain for panoramic views of the Hoa Lu landscape, with its striking limestone formations and winding rivers.

With the guide’s expert commentary, the Hoa Lu portion of the tour provides a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam’s rich history and heritage.

Navigating Trang An

After exploring the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, the tour then takes travelers to the serene Trang An Scenic Landmark Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its picturesque karst mountains and winding rivers.

Travelers will board a traditional sampan boat and glide peacefully through the lush, verdant landscape, passing by ancient temples and limestone caves.

The guide will share insights about the region’s rich history and cultural significance as the boat navigates the tranquil waterways.

This boat tour offers a unique opportunity to take in the natural beauty of Ninh Binh, providing a peaceful respite from the bustling cities.

Ascending Mua Cave

Typically, the tour then takes visitors to the iconic Mua Cave, where they can ascend a steep staircase carved into the surrounding limestone hills, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Trang An landscape.

The climb up the 500 steps can be challenging, but the stunning vistas at the top make it well worth the effort.

Once at the summit, travelers are rewarded with:

1. Sweeping views of the lush, green valleys and winding rivers below.

2. An opportunity to capture incredible photographs of the unique karst formations.

3. A chance to appreciate the region’s remarkable natural beauty and geological history.

Descending the stairs can be just as exhilarating, as visitors soak in the last moments of this unforgettable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Travelers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, it’s best to confirm this with the tour operator beforehand, as some tour providers may have restrictions or prefer to provide all meals and refreshments.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

According to the tour overview, there does not appear to be an option to extend the tour duration. The tour is described as a "Full Day Tour" with a fixed start time of 8:30 am. Any extensions or customizations would need to be arranged separately with the tour operator.

How Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

To request a private tour, travelers can contact the tour company directly and inquire about private tour options. They may be able to customize the tour to the traveler’s preferences for an additional fee.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour operator may offer discounts for students or seniors, but these are not explicitly stated in the tour information provided. It’s best to inquire directly with the tour company about any available discounts prior to booking.

Can I Make Special Dietary Requests for the Included Lunch?

Yes, you can make special dietary requests for the included lunch. The tour operator is accommodating and will work to meet any dietary needs or restrictions you may have, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free.

Recap

The Ninh Binh Full Day Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Vietnam’s ancient capital, stunning natural landscapes, and cultural heritage.

Guided by an English-speaking expert, participants embark on a seamless adventure, enjoying a traditional boat tour, learning about the region’s history, and admiring the breathtaking views from Mua Cave.

With inclusions like lunch and entrance fees, this tour promises an unforgettable experience amidst the region’s remarkable beauty and cultural richness.