Ninh Binh, a captivating region in northern Vietnam, boasts a treasure trove of natural wonders that lure travelers from around the world. This full-day tour offers an immersive exploration of the area’s highlights, promising an unforgettable experience for those seeking to uncover the region’s hidden gems. From the historic Hoa Lu to the serene Trang An Grottoes and the scenic Mua Cave, this small-group excursion provides a personalized journey through Ninh Binh’s breathtaking landscapes. With round-trip transportation, boat tours, and a local lunch included, the stage is set for an enriching adventure that may just leave you craving for more.
This experience made our list of the 20 Best Full-Day Tours In Hanoi.
Key Points
- This full-day tour explores the natural landscapes of Ninh Binh, including Hoa Lu, Trang An Grottoes, and Mua Cave.
- The tour includes round-trip transportation, a 2.5-hour rowing boat tour, entrance tickets, an English-speaking guide, lunch, and bottled water.
- The tour is operated by Vietnam Eco Travel and has a maximum group size of 17 participants for a personalized experience.
- Pickup is available from hotels in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, with the meeting point at the Hanoi Explore Travel office.
- The tour is not wheelchair accessible and is not recommended for travelers with back problems due to activities like rowing boats and cycling.
Overview of the Tour
The full-day tour to Hoa Lu, Trang An, and Mua Cave in Ninh Binh offers travelers a comprehensive exploration of the region’s natural and cultural highlights.
Operated by Vietnam Eco Travel, this small-group tour accommodates a maximum of 17 people, ensuring a more personalized experience.
The tour includes round-trip transportation via limousine bus, a 2.5-hour rowing boat tour of the Trang An Grottoes, and entrance tickets to all the sightseeing destinations.
Travelers will also enjoy a local lunch, bottled water, and the opportunity to explore the countryside by bicycle.
With an English-speaking guide, the tour provides an informative and immersive experience in the stunning landscapes of Ninh Binh.
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Tour Inclusions
What does this full-day tour in Ninh Binh include?
The tour includes round-trip transportation via limousine bus, a 2.5-hour rowing boat tour of the Trang An Grottoes, and entrance tickets to all the sightseeing destinations.
Plus, travelers will enjoy:
- An English-speaking guide to provide commentary and insights throughout the day
- Lunch at a local restaurant
- Bottled water while on the bus
- Bicycle rental for exploring the village
With these comprehensive inclusions, this Ninh Binh tour offers an immersive experience, allowing travelers to fully discover the natural beauty and cultural highlights of this stunning region.
Pickup and Meeting Point
For this tour, pickup is available from hotels in Hanoi’s Old Quarter between 7:30 and 7:55 AM.
Alternatively, travelers can meet the group at the Hanoi Explore Travel office located at 33 Ngo Huyen Street in the Hoan Kiem District. The office serves as the designated meeting point for the tour.
Participants should aim to arrive at the meeting point by 8:00 AM to ensure a timely departure.
The tour operates on a group basis, with a maximum of 17 travelers.
It’s worth noting that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and it’s not recommended for those with back problems.
Tour Logistics
This comprehensive full-day tour allows travelers to explore the remarkable natural landscapes of Ninh Binh, including the historic Hoa Lu, the serene Trang An Grottoes, and the iconic Mua Cave.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s conveniently located near public transportation. It’s not recommended for travelers with back problems, as the tour involves activities like rowing boats and cycling.
With a maximum group size of 17, travelers can expect an intimate and personalized experience. The tour has received 159 reviews and a Certificate of Excellence, ensuring a high-quality experience.
Travelers can take advantage of the lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
Pricing Information
The tour’s pricing varies based on the group size, with the lowest price guaranteed for all travelers. Prices are inclusive of round-trip transportation, all entrance fees, a guided boat tour, lunch, and bicycle rentals for village cycling.
The more travelers in the group, the lower the per-person cost. Individuals can expect to pay the highest price, while larger groups of up to 17 people can take advantage of discounted rates.
Regardless of group size, the tour provides excellent value and a comprehensive sightseeing experience in Ninh Binh. Customers also have the flexibility to cancel their booking up to 24 hours prior without any penalties, ensuring a hassle-free booking process.
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Boat Tour of Trang An Grottoes
Aboard the rowing boats, visitors glide through the serene waters of the Trang An Grottoes, surrounded by the striking limestone karst formations that characterize this UNESCO World Heritage site.
The 2.5-hour boat tour offers a unique perspective on the natural beauty of Ninh Binh. Highlights include:
- Passing through dark, narrow caves where sunlight filters through cracks in the rock.
- Seeing ancient temples and historical sites like the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital.
- Spotting diverse wildlife like cormorants, herons, and butterflies along the river banks.
- Experiencing the tranquility and serenity of this pristine landscape.
The Trang An boat tour is a must-do activity for visitors to Ninh Binh, providing an immersive and unforgettable glimpse into this extraordinary natural wonder.
Visiting Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
After exploring the serene Trang An Grottoes, visitors make their way to the historic Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, the former seat of power in 10th-century Vietnam.
This once-thriving political center offers a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage, with the remains of ancient temples and palaces providing a tangible connection to the past.
Visitors can wander among the ruins, imagining the grand ceremonies and strategic meetings that once took place here. The tour guide shares insights into the site’s history, highlighting the significance of Hoa Lu as the capital of the Dinh and Early Le dynasties.
This captivating destination allows travelers to step back in time and gain a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s fascinating history.
Exploring Mua Cave Viewpoint
From the charming Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, the tour then proceeds to the captivating Mua Cave Viewpoint, where visitors can marvel at the stunning panoramic vistas over the karst landscapes of Ninh Binh.
Reaching the viewpoint involves a moderate hike up 500 stone steps, but the effort is well worth it.
At the top, guests are rewarded with:
- Breathtaking 360-degree views of the winding rivers, lush green fields, and limestone mountains that define Ninh Binh’s picturesque scenery.
- The chance to explore the historic Mua Cave, which was used as a hideout during wartime.
- Photo opportunities galore, with the iconic Mua Cave itself as a dramatic backdrop.
- A sense of accomplishment from conquering the challenging staircase climb.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour operator generally allows participants to bring their own snacks and beverages to enjoy during the day’s activities.
Is There an Option to Visit Any Other Sites During the Tour?
The tour operator offers an itinerary focused on the key attractions at Ninh Binh. While the standard tour doesn’t include visits to additional sites, customers can inquire about customizing the itinerary to add other destinations of interest.
Can the Tour Be Customized to My Preferences?
The tour can typically be customized to accommodate traveler preferences, such as visiting additional sites or adjusting the itinerary. However, travelers should check with the tour operator about the flexibility and any associated costs for customizations.
Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment or Gear?
For this tour, travelers don’t need any special equipment or gear. The tour provider includes all necessary items like life jackets for the boat ride. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and the provider will handle all logistics.
Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors on the Tour?
Yes, there are discounts for children and seniors on this tour. Specifically, children under the age of 12 receive a 50% discount, while seniors aged 60 and above are eligible for a 20% discount off the regular tour price.
Recap
This full-day tour from Vietnam Eco Travel offers an immersive experience exploring Ninh Binh’s natural wonders.
With round-trip transportation, boat tours, entrance tickets, and a local lunch included, the itinerary provides a personalized small-group adventure.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour promises to captivate visitors with the breathtaking landscapes of Hoa Lu, Trang An Grottoes, and Mua Cave.
It’s an excellent opportunity to discover the unique beauty of this remarkable region.
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