Ninh Binh: Hoa Lu, Trang an & Mua Cave Day Tour From Ha Noi

Discover the captivating charm of Vietnam’s Ninh Binh province on this comprehensive day tour from Hanoi. Enjoy the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, wander through the serene Trang An waterways, and ascend the iconic Mua Cave for panoramic vistas. With an experienced guide leading the way, you’ll uncover the region’s rich history and stunning natural beauty. Get ready to be enchanted by this must-see destination.

Key Points

• A day tour from Hanoi to explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, scenic boat cruise in Trang An, and hike at Mua Cave.
• Priced at $44.49 per person, with a duration of 10 hours and including transportation, entrance fees, lunch, and an English-speaking guide.
• Highlights include the Dinh King Temple, panoramic views from Mua Cave, and insights into Vietnam’s rich history and natural beauty.
• Recommended items include comfortable shoes and sun protection, and the tour operates rain or shine.
• Not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, and a holiday surcharge may apply on specified dates.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This Ninh Binh day tour is a comprehensive exploration of the region’s historical and natural wonders. Priced from $44.49 per person, the 10-hour journey includes visits to Hoa Lu, Trang An, and Mua Cave.

Pickup is available from hotels in the Hanoi Old Quarter, while others can meet at the designated point. The tour includes entrance fees, lunch, an English-speaking guide, boat cruise, and transportation.

Guests should wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection. The tour operates rain or shine, and a holiday surcharge may apply on certain dates. Accessibility is limited for those with mobility issues.

Itinerary

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Hanoi’s Old Quarter or a meeting at the designated location at 44 Hang Cot.

After a 2-hour bus/coach ride, the group arrives in Ninh Binh Province. They’ll visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and tour the Dinh King Temple.

Lunch at a local restaurant follows.

Next, they’ll embark on a scenic boat cruise at Trang An.

The final stop is Mua Cave, where they’ll hike up for panoramic views.

The tour ends with drop-off at the Old Quarter in Hanoi.

Highlights

Visitors can explore Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam from the 10th-11th centuries. They’ll see the Dinh King Temple, a well-preserved historical site.

Next, they’ll take in the picturesque landscapes and scenery during the boat cruise at Trang An.

Travelers can admire the picturesque landscapes and scenery during the boat cruise at Trang An.

The highlight is the climb up Mua Cave, offering breathtaking panoramic views over the karst mountains and rivers below.

With each activity, travelers gain insights into Vietnam’s rich history and natural beauty, making this tour a must-do experience in Ninh Binh.

Inclusions

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Hanoi’s Old Quarter.

It also covers admission tickets to the key attractions of Hoa Lu, Trang An, and Mua Cave. An English-speaking guide accompanies guests throughout the day, providing insights and information.

Lunch at a local restaurant and a scenic boat trip in Trang An are both included.

The tour provides:

• Admission tickets to Hoa Lu, Trang An, and Mua Cave

• Lunch at a local restaurant

• Boat trip in Trang An

• English-speaking guide

• Hotel pickup and drop-off in Hanoi’s Old Quarter

Transportation during the trip and bottled water on the bus are also provided.

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Important Information

Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, camera, and sunscreen are recommended items to bring on the tour.

The tour may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

The tour operates rain or shine, though routes may change due to weather conditions.

Participants should consider purchasing accident and travel insurance.

Those who appear intoxicated may be refused service without a refund.

Plus, a holiday surcharge of 300,000 VND per person will apply on specified dates, such as December 31, 2023 and February 8-14, 2024, payable directly to the tour guide.

Destination: Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam during the 10th and 11th centuries, beckons visitors with its rich historical significance and captivating landscapes.

The tour explores the remnants of this medieval stronghold, including:

Remnants of the medieval stronghold, including ancient architecture, stone carvings, and natural surroundings that offer a glimpse into Vietnam’s storied past.

• Dinh King Temple, a revered structure dedicated to the Dinh Dynasty rulers

• Ancient architecture and stone carvings that offer a glimpse into Vietnam’s storied past

• Stunning natural surroundings, with limestone karsts and tranquil ponds

• Opportunities to learn about the region’s cultural traditions and way of life

• Insights from a knowledgeable guide who brings the site’s history to life.

Scenic Boat Cruise at Trang An

After exploring the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, the tour continues with a scenic boat cruise at Trang An.

The group boards a small boat and glides peacefully through the limestone karst landscape, surrounded by lush greenery and towering cliffs. The guide points out the unique geology and historical significance of the region.

Passengers have the opportunity to admire the breathtaking scenery and snap photos as the boat winds through the narrow waterways.

This tranquil boat ride is a highlight of the day, offering a chance to take in the natural beauty of Ninh Binh.

Breathtaking Views From Mua Cave

Leaving the tranquil boat cruise behind, the tour now ventures to Mua Cave, where visitors are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views.

The ascent up the 500 steps carved into the limestone mountain is strenuous, but the payoff is worth it. At the summit, guests are treated to:

• Sweeping vistas of the lush, emerald-green landscape

• A bird’s-eye view of the winding Sông Đáy River

• Glimpses of the ancient Hoa Lu capital ruins

• Stunning limestone peaks and cliffs

• Photo opportunities galore for the perfect Instagram shot

The Mua Cave experience offers a thrilling finale to the Ninh Binh day tour.

Since You Asked

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour has no strict dress code, but comfortable walking shoes and clothing suitable for the weather are recommended. Visitors should dress in layers to adapt to various environments during the day’s activities.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Participants are generally allowed to bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages, but the tour includes lunch at a local restaurant. Bringing external food or drinks onto boats or into sites may be restricted.

Are There Any Additional Fees Not Mentioned?

There may be additional fees not mentioned, such as a holiday surcharge on specified dates. It’s best to check with the tour provider for any extra costs before booking. Bringing your own food and drinks is generally not allowed.

How Experienced Are the Tour Guides?

The tour guides on this Ninh Binh excursion are experienced, having led these trips for several years. They’re knowledgeable about the area’s history and attractions, and they provide engaging commentary throughout the day’s activities.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to My Preferences?

Customers can request minor customizations to the tour itinerary, such as visiting additional sites or adjusting the schedule, though major changes may not be possible. The tour operator can accommodate reasonable requests when feasible.

Final Words

This Ninh Binh day tour from Hanoi offers a captivating blend of Vietnam’s ancient heritage and breathtaking natural beauty. Visitors can explore the historical Hoa Lu, enjoy a serene boat cruise at Trang An, and admire the panoramic vistas from Mua Cave, all within a convenient day trip. With hotel pickup, lunch, and an English-speaking guide included, this tour provides an immersive and well-rounded experience of Ninh Binh’s cultural and scenic highlights.

You can check if your dates are available here: