Nestled in the heart of Vietnam’s Northern region, Ninh Binh’s Hoa Lu and Trang An are captivating destinations that offer an immersive blend of cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty. This guided cycling and boat tour invites travelers to uncover the region’s storied past, explore its lush landscapes, and savor the essence of Vietnamese tradition. From ancient citadels to serene grottoes, the journey promises an unforgettable adventure that’ll leave you eager to discover more about this enchanting corner of the country.
This experience made our list of the 25 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Ninh Binh.
Key Points
- Guided tour combining cycling and boat exploration of the scenic Ninh Binh region, including visits to Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel and Trang An Grottoes.
- Tour priced from VND1,231 per person, limited to 15 participants, and conducted in English with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Itinerary features a bus journey to Hoa Lu, cycling on rural roads, a boat trip through Trang An Grottoes, and a buffet lunch at a local restaurant.
- Tour includes hotel pickup, professional English-speaking guide, bottled water, entrance fees, and tips, with a limousine transfer option available for an additional fee.
- Recommended attire includes comfortable clothing and shoes, layers for unpredictable weather, and sun protection, with limitations for individuals over 95 years of age.
Tour Overview
This guided tour package offers visitors an engaging combination of cycling and boat exploration in the scenic Ninh Binh region.
Priced from VND1,231 per person, the 8-hour tour is limited to 15 participants and conducted in English.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the tour includes hotel pickup, a professional English-speaking guide, bottled water, a buffet lunch, all entrance fees, and tips for the guide and driver.
The itinerary highlights visits to the Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel, cycling on rural roads, and a boat trip through the Trang An Grottoes.
Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes and clothes for this tour.
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Itinerary Highlights
After meeting the guide at the hotel and embarking on a 110km bus journey through the countryside, the tour begins with a visit to the Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel.
Travelers will explore the Dinh King Temple and Le King Temple, which date back to the 17th century.
Next, they’ll enjoy a leisurely bike ride on rural roads near the canal network and villages.
Following a local lunch, the group will depart for the Trang An Grottoes, where they’ll explore the limestone massif and caves via traditional sampan.
The tour concludes with the bus journey back to Hanoi, where travelers will be dropped off at their hotel.
Included in Tour
The tour package includes hotel pick-up in Hanoi’s Old Quarter or Opera House, with a limousine option available for an additional fee.
It’s a fully escorted tour with a professional English-speaking guide. Participants will receive 2 bottles of water each and enjoy a buffet lunch at a local restaurant.
All entrance fees as per the itinerary are covered, and tips for the tour guide and driver are included.
This comprehensive package ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience exploring the historical and natural wonders of Ninh Binh.
What to Bring
For this tour, participants should bring comfortable shoes and clothes. The cycling and boat activities require attire that allows for easy movement and mobility.
Plus, it’s recommended to wear layers, as the weather in Ninh Binh can be unpredictable, with potential changes in temperature and rainfall. Bringing a light rain jacket or poncho might also be a good idea, in case of unexpected showers.
Participants should also consider bringing sun protection, such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience throughout the day’s activities.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyImportant Information
Certain limitations exist regarding the tour’s suitability. The tour is not recommended for individuals over 95 years of age. For any special requests, travelers are advised to contact the tour operator directly. To facilitate seamless communication after reservation, participants should provide their mobile phone number or messaging platform details such as WhatsApp, KakaoTalk, or WeChat.
Limitation | Details |
---|---|
Age | Not suitable for individuals over 95 years |
Requests | Contact tour operator for special requests |
Communication | Provide mobile number or messaging platform |
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Meeting Location
Participants meet their guide at their hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter or Opera House district at 7:30-8:00 AM.
The tour includes hotel pick-up, providing a seamless start to the day’s adventures. Guests can opt for a limousine transfer at an additional cost.
This efficient meeting arrangement ensures the group departs on time for the 110km bus journey through the countryside to Hoa Lu, the first stop on the itinerary.
The guide leads the way, allowing participants to sit back, relax, and take in the scenic rural landscape en route to the ancient citadel.
Lunch Details
After the morning activities, the group stops for a buffet lunch at a local restaurant.
The lunch is included in the tour price, providing an authentic taste of Vietnamese cuisine. Diners can enjoy a variety of Vietnamese dishes, including rice, noodles, meat, and vegetable options.
The buffet-style setup allows participants to sample multiple dishes and customize their meal to their liking. The restaurant setting offers a chance to rest and recharge before the afternoon’s boat tour.
With the lunch provided, the tour maintains an efficient and seamless flow, allowing participants to fully experience the day’s activities.
Tour Duration
The tour lasts a total of 8 hours, providing participants with an immersive experience exploring the historical and natural wonders of Ninh Binh.
It begins with a 110km bus journey through the countryside, arriving at the Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel around 10:15 AM. After visiting the historic temples, the group enjoys a leisurely cycle along the rural roads and canals.
Following a local lunch, the tour continues to the Trang An Grottoes, where participants explore the limestone massif and caves by traditional sampan.
The tour concludes with the return journey to Hanoi, dropping off guests at their hotels between 6:00 and 6:20 PM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Take Photos During the Tour?
Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photos during the tour. However, it’s important to be mindful and respectful of the sites and surroundings. Some areas may have restrictions, so it’s best to check with the tour guide.
Is It Possible to Customize the Itinerary?
The tour operator allows some customization of the itinerary, but major changes may incur an additional fee. Guests should contact the operator to discuss any special requests or preferences for the tour.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Cycling Activity?
The tour has an age restriction of not suitable for individuals over 95 years old. There are no specific age limits mentioned for the cycling activity, suggesting it is suitable for a wide range of participants.
What Type of Transportation Is Used During the Tour?
The tour uses a combination of transportation. Participants are picked up from their hotel in Hanoi by bus, which takes them on a 110km journey through the countryside. Once at the sites, they cycle on rural roads and take traditional sampans to explore the limestone caves.
Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?
Yes, the tour operator offers the option to upgrade to a private tour instead of the group tour. Travelers can contact the tour operator to inquire about the availability and pricing for a private tour.
Recap
The Ninh Binh: Hoa Lu – Trang An Cycling & Boat Group Tour offers an immersive experience, blending cultural exploration and natural beauty. Participants will journey through Vietnam’s historic sites, bike along picturesque rural roads, and embark on a captivating boat tour through the stunning Trang An Grottoes. This all-inclusive tour provides a delightful balance of culture, nature, and adventure, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a comprehensive and memorable experience.
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