Phat Diem Cathedral -Van Long-Mua Cave Full Day Private Tour

The Phat Diem Cathedral-Van Long-Mua Cave Full Day Private Tour offers visitors a captivating blend of cultural and natural wonders in the picturesque Ninh Binh province. Travelers can enjoy the grandeur of the largest cathedral in the Red River Delta, before embarking on a serene boat ride through the lush Van Long Nature Reserve, teeming with diverse wildlife. The day culminates with a rewarding hike to the breathtaking Mua Cave, where panoramic vistas of the Tam Coc landscape await. This comprehensive tour promises to leave a lasting impression, enticing visitors to further explore the rich tapestry of Vietnam’s cultural and natural heritage.

Key Points

• This full-day private tour covers Phat Diem Cathedral, Van Long Nature Reserve, and Mua Caves in Ninh Binh, with transportation, guide, and lunch included.
• The tour provides an immersive experience in the natural and cultural attractions of Ninh Binh, with a 2.5-hour boat ride and a 500-step hike to Mua Caves.
• Highlights include the grand Phat Diem Cathedral, the serene wetlands of Van Long Nature Reserve, and the panoramic views from the Mua Caves summit.
• The tour is priced at $224.07 per person, with no upfront payment required and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• The tour is approximately 10 hours long, with pickup from Hoan Kiem district and return by 7 PM, allowing for a full day of exploration.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This Phat Diem Cathedral – Van Long – Mua Cave Full Day Private Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of some of Ninh Binh’s most captivating natural and cultural attractions, with prices starting from $224.07 per person.

Guests can reserve their spot with no upfront payment and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour lasts one day and includes transportation from Hoan Kiem, visiting Phat Diem Cathedral, Mua Caves, and Van Long Nature Reserve.

Highlights include admiring the architectural grandeur of Phat Diem Cathedral, hiking to Hang Mua Cave for panoramic views, and taking a boat trip through Van Long’s scenic wetlands.

The tour includes an English-speaking guide, all entrance fees, and a local lunch, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience.

Itinerary and Duration

The tour commences with a pickup from the Hoan Kiem district in Hanoi, followed by a 2.5-hour drive to the picturesque Ninh Binh province, where the day’s activities unfold.

The first stop is the iconic Phat Diem Cathedral, a stunning architectural marvel built in 1891, where visitors will spend around 2 hours exploring its intricate design and learning about its rich history.

Next, the tour moves on to the serene Van Long Nature Reserve, where a boat ride through the scenic reed fields offers a chance to immerse in the region’s natural beauty.

The day culminates with a hike to the Mua Caves, rewarding adventurers with panoramic views of the breathtaking Tam Coc valley.

• Phat Diem Cathedral (2 hours)

• Van Long Nature Reserve (1.5 hours)

• Mua Caves (2.5 hours including lunch and hiking)

• Return to Hoan Kiem by 19:00

Tour Highlights

Visitors can explore the striking Phat Diem Cathedral, the largest in the Red River Delta, which was built in 1891 and features a unique blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and traditional Vietnamese architectural elements. After marveling at the cathedral’s grandeur, the tour continues with a boat trip through the serene Van Long Nature Reserve, known for its scenic wild reed fields. The highlight of the day is the hike up 500 steps to Hang Mua Cave, which offers panoramic views of the Tam Coc "love valley" and its striking limestone karsts. This private tour provides an immersive experience for up to 10 participants to discover the region’s natural and cultural wonders.

Tour Highlights
Phat Diem Cathedral	Explore the largest cathedral in the Red River Delta, featuring a unique architectural blend
Van Long Nature Reserve	Enjoy a peaceful boat trip through the scenic wild reed fields
Hang Mua Cave	Hike 500 steps for panoramic views of the Tam Coc "love valley" and its limestone karsts
Private Tour Experience	Small group of up to 10 participants for an immersive discovery of the region’s natural and cultural wonders

Inclusions and Exclusions

What does the tour include and what’s excluded? The tour includes an English-speaking guide, a private car (seating 4-7-16 passengers), two complimentary bottles of water per person, all entrance and boat fees, a lunch featuring local cuisine, as well as travel insurance and government tax (10%).

However, tips for the tour guide and personal expenses are excluded.

The tour provides a comprehensive package to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience:

• All necessary transportation and entry fees are covered

• Lunch with local specialties is included

• Travel insurance and taxes are taken care of

• The only additional costs are tips and personal purchases

This well-rounded offering allows travelers to focus on seeing the tour’s highlights without worrying about extra expenses.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Important Information

Certain considerations are important for this tour, as it may not be suitable for all travelers.

Wheelchair users, for instance, can’t be accommodated.

Participants should come equipped with comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hats, cameras, sunscreen, and hiking attire.

Alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited.

The itinerary is subject to change, so travelers should be prepared for potential adjustments.

While the tour is designed to provide a comprehensive and enjoyable experience, it’s essential for participants to familiarize themselves with the tour’s requirements and plan accordingly.

Pickup Location and Travel Time

The tour’s pickup location is at Hoàn Kiếm, with the total travel time to Ninh Binh being 2.5 hours each way. This full-day private tour is an excellent opportunity to explore the captivating scenery and cultural attractions of this region.

The early morning departure from Hoàn Kiếm allows for ample time to visit the key sites throughout the day, including the Phat Diem Cathedral, Mua Caves, and Van Long Nature Reserve.

The private car transport ensures a comfortable and efficient journey, with plenty of time to take in the stunning landscapes along the way.

Guests can relax and enjoy the scenery, knowing that the experienced English-speaking guide will handle all the logistics and provide insightful commentary throughout the tour.

With the return to Hoàn Kiếm by 7 PM, this tour is designed to maximize the day and provide a comprehensive exploration of Ninh Binh’s natural and cultural wonders.

Boat Trip in Van Long Nature Reserve

After exploring the grand Phat Diem Cathedral, the tour takes guests on a serene boat trip through the Van Long Nature Reserve, a picturesque wetland area known for its abundant wildlife and scenic reed fields. During the boat ride, visitors can marvel at the stunning limestone cliffs that rise majestically from the tranquil waters, providing a breathtaking backdrop to the lush natural surroundings. The tour guide will share insights about the local ecosystem and point out various species of birds, reptiles, and other wildlife that call this reserve home. The peaceful boat trip is a highlight of the tour, offering a chance to truly take in the captivating beauty of northern Vietnam’s natural wonders.

Key Features	Description
Location	Wetland nature reserve in Ninh Binh province
Landscape	Limestone cliffs, tranquil waters, lush reed fields
Wildlife	Diverse bird species, reptiles, and other fauna
Activity	Serene boat trip through the scenic reserve

Hike to Hang Mua Cave

Following the serene boat trip through Van Long Nature Reserve, the tour continues with a hike up to the Hang Mua Cave, offering panoramic vistas of the stunning Tam Coc landscape.

Ascending a staircase of around 500 steps, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking views overlooking the picturesque limestone karsts, verdant rice paddies, and winding rivers that characterize this captivating region of northern Vietnam.

The hike provides an exhilarating physical challenge and a chance to fully take in the natural beauty of the area.

Key highlights of the Hang Mua Cave experience include:

• Panoramic 360-degree views from the cave’s summit

• Photogenic limestone formations and lush greenery

• Serene ambiance and tranquil atmosphere

• A sense of achievement from conquering the challenging ascent

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Tour Group Size?

The tour group size is up to 10 participants. The private tour experience allows for a small group, providing a more personalized and intimate exploration of the destinations.

Can I Request a Vegetarian/Vegan Lunch?

Yes, travelers can request a vegetarian or vegan lunch for this tour. The tour provider will accommodate dietary restrictions as long as the request is made in advance. Meals feature local Vietnamese cuisine.

Is the Tour Available in Other Languages?

Yes, the tour is available in other languages besides English. Customers can request guides who speak languages like French, German, Spanish, or Mandarin when booking the tour. The tour operator accommodates various language needs to ensure a comfortable experience.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks?

Guests are generally welcome to bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic drinks on the tour. However, the tour provider recommends checking the inclusion details, as some tours may provide certain refreshments as part of the package.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, travelers can typically request to extend the tour duration, though additional fees may apply. The tour operator can provide options to customize the itinerary and accommodate a longer experience upon request.

Recap

The Phat Diem Cathedral – Van Long – Mua Cave Full Day Private Tour offers a captivating exploration of Ninh Binh’s cultural and natural wonders.

Visitors will be enchanted by the grandeur of Phat Diem Cathedral, the serenity of the Van Long Nature Reserve, and the breathtaking panoramic views from Mua Cave.

This comprehensive tour provides a well-rounded experience, showcasing the diverse beauty and heritage of this remarkable region.

You can check if your dates are available here: