Ninh Binh Small Group Tour : Hoa Lu, Trang An, Mua Cave

The Ninh Binh Small Group Tour promises an immersive experience in Vietnam’s rich history and stunning natural landscapes. Visitors can explore the ancient Hoa Lu capital, marvel at the panoramic views from Mua Cave, and drift peacefully along the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex on a bamboo boat tour. With knowledgeable guides, a Vietnamese lunch, and a mix of cultural and outdoor activities, this 9-hour adventure offers a well-rounded glimpse into the captivating Ninh Binh region. Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply seeking an unforgettable day, this tour seems poised to deliver an experience that lingers long after the journey ends.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Tours In Ninh Binh.

Key Points

• A 9-hour Ninh Binh small group tour that includes visits to Bich Dong Pagoda, Mua Cave, Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, and a 3-hour bamboo boat tour in Trang An.
• The tour is priced from K1,179 per person and includes hotel pickup/drop-off, English and Vietnamese-speaking guides, water, and entrance fees.
• Highlights of the tour include hiking 500 steps to the Mua Cave summit, exploring the historic Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, and experiencing the scenic Trang An Landscape Complex.
• The tour provides an opportunity to immerse in Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage, from the 14th-century Bich Dong Pagoda to the 10th-century Hoa Lu Ancient Capital.
• The tour includes a leisurely 1.5-hour lunch stop to sample authentic regional Vietnamese cuisine, complementing the exploration of natural and historical sites.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This Ninh Binh Small Group Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the region’s top attractions. Priced from K1,179 per person, the 9-hour tour includes English and Vietnamese-speaking guides, hotel pickup and drop-off, water, and entrance fees to Mua Cave and Trang An.

Highlights include visiting the Bich Dong Pagoda, hiking Mua Cave, exploring the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, and enjoying a 3-hour bamboo boat tour at the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can flexibly plan their trip. This small group tour provides a well-rounded experience to discover Ninh Binh’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a visit to the Bich Dong Pagoda, the oldest pagoda in Ninh Binh, allowing travelers to enjoy the region’s rich spiritual heritage for an hour.

Next, visitors can hike 500 steps to the top of Mua Cave for scenic views over the limestone cliffs and rice paddies.

The tour then explores the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, where visitors can discover the area’s royal temples and history for an additional hour.

After lunch, the highlight is the 3-hour bamboo boat tour through the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, featuring caves and countryside scenery.

Bich Dong Pagoda

Visitors begin their tour at the Bich Dong Pagoda, the oldest pagoda in Ninh Binh. This tranquil Buddhist temple, dating back to the 14th century, is nestled within a scenic cave complex.

Travelers explore the pagoda’s intricate architecture, featuring ornate carvings and a peaceful atmosphere. The site offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich religious heritage and provides a serene respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

With its picturesque setting among limestone cliffs and lush greenery, the Bich Dong Pagoda captivates visitors, inviting them to enjoy the area’s cultural and natural wonders.

Mua Cave

Hiking the 500 steps to the top of Mua Cave rewards travelers with panoramic vistas of the Ninh Binh countryside.

From the summit, visitors can admire the limestone cliffs, winding rivers, and lush green rice paddies that typify this picturesque region. The climb, though strenuous, offers a thrilling sense of accomplishment upon reaching the viewpoint.

Guests can take their time exploring the cave’s interior before descending back down. While an optional activity, the Mua Cave hike provides an exhilarating way to appreciate the natural splendor of this UNESCO-recognized landscape.

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Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

After exploring the serene Bich Dong Pagoda, the tour group proceeds to the historic Hoa Lu Ancient Capital.

Once the capital of Vietnam in the 10th century, Hoa Lu offers a glimpse into the country’s royal past. Visitors can stroll through the temple grounds and imagine the grandeur of the ancient palaces.

The tour includes an optional visit to the site, allowing guests to delve deeper into Vietnam’s rich history.

With its well-preserved temples and ruins, Hoa Lu provides a captivating contrast to the natural beauty encountered earlier in the tour.

Lunch

The tour includes a leisurely 1.5-hour stop for a local Vietnamese lunch at a nearby restaurant.

During this break, visitors can sample authentic regional dishes and learn about the culinary traditions of Ninh Binh.

The lunch menu typically features a selection of rice, noodle, and vegetable-based meals, allowing travelers to enjoy the flavors of northern Vietnam.

This dining experience complements the tour’s exploration of the area’s natural and historical sites, providing a well-rounded cultural experience.

Lunch is included in the tour package, ensuring a satisfying midday respite before continuing the scenic journey.

Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex

Visitors embark on a 3-hour bamboo boat tour through the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its captivating karst topography and serene waterways.

Gliding silently through the network of caves and rivers, guests witness the dramatic limestone cliffs rising from the tranquil waters. The boat tour showcases the region’s diverse ecosystems, including lush rice paddies, verdant forests, and hidden grottoes.

Along the way, visitors may catch glimpses of local wildlife and learn about the area’s rich history and cultural significance.

The Trang An experience immerses travelers in the natural beauty and timeless charm of northern Vietnam.

Experience Details

A live guide accompanies the small group throughout the tour, providing insights and commentary on the rich history and culture of the Ninh Binh region.

Guests are asked to wait in the hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup, where a driver will be holding a sign with their last name.

The tour offers scenic views of limestone cliffs and rice paddies throughout the day. Guests return to their hotel at approximately 5:15 PM.

The tour includes:

1. Hotel pickup and drop-off
2. English-speaking guide
3. Bottled water on the van
4. Entrance tickets to Mua Cave and Trang An boat tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Combine This Tour With Other Activities in Ninh Binh?

Yes, you can combine this tour with other activities in Ninh Binh. The tour’s flexible itinerary allows you to add optional visits to sites like Bich Dong Pagoda, Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, and a longer boat tour at Trang An.

Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?

Yes, the tour offers discounts for children and seniors. Children under 5 years old travel for free, while those 5-12 years old receive a 50% discount. Seniors aged 65 and above also get a 10% discount on the tour price.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Focus on Specific Sites?

Yes, customers can customize the itinerary to focus on specific sites. The tour operator offers flexibility, allowing travelers to prioritize the attractions they’re most interested in visiting during the 9-hour tour.

Are There Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?

Yes, there are restroom facilities available at various stops during the tour. Visitors can use the restrooms at the pagoda, caves, and restaurants visited throughout the day to accommodate their needs.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Small Group Tour?

The tour is a small group experience, but the maximum group size is not explicitly stated in the information provided. Typically, small group tours range from 2 to 15 participants to ensure a more personalized and intimate experience.

Recap

The Ninh Binh Small Group Tour offers an immersive experience in Vietnam’s rich history and stunning natural landscapes. Highlights include exploring the ancient Hoa Lu capital, hiking to Mua Cave, and a serene boat tour through the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex. With knowledgeable guides, a Vietnamese lunch, and a range of cultural and outdoor activities, this 9-hour adventure provides a well-rounded introduction to the captivating Ninh Binh region.

You can check if your dates are available here: