Ninh Binh, often referred to as the "Ha Long Bay on land," is a captivating destination that seamlessly blends cultural heritage and natural wonders. This private day trip invites travelers to uncover the ancient Hoa Lu capital, glide through the serene Tam Coc waterways, and conquer the steps leading to the panoramic Mua Cave viewpoint. Whether you’re seeking a culture or an adrenaline-fueled adventure, this comprehensive itinerary promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation for Vietnam’s rich history and breathtaking landscapes.
Key Points
- A 1-day private tour from Hanoi to the Ninh Binh region, featuring visits to the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Tam Coc boat ride, and climb to Mua Cave viewpoint.
- Tour price starts from Kč 4,710 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a $10 USD surcharge on Lunar New Year holidays.
- Itinerary includes entrance fees, buffet lunch, and complimentary bottled water, with personal expenses and tips not covered.
- The tour duration is approximately 1 day, with pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter or Opera House between 7-8 AM.
- Highlights include exploring ancient temples, a 1-hour sampan ride through limestone caves, and a 500-step climb to the Mua Cave peak.
Tour Overview and Pricing
This day trip from Kč 4,710 per person offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Guests can reserve now and pay later.
The tour lasts 1 day, with pickups from Hanoi’s Old Quarter or Opera House between 7-8 AM. Transportation with air conditioning is provided during the activities.
The tour includes entrance fees, a buffet lunch, and complimentary bottled water. However, personal expenses and tips aren’t included.
There’s a 10 USD surcharge per person on Lunar New Year holidays. Itineraries are subject to change, so guests should check availability for starting times.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Ninh Binh.
Itinerary Highlights
The Ninh Binh day trip features several captivating highlights.
First, visitors explore the ancient Hoa Lu capital, once the seat of the Dinh and Le dynasties in the 10th-11th centuries. They’ll examine ancient temples dedicated to the kings and learn about this significant period in Vietnamese history.
Next, guests enjoy a peaceful 1-hour sampan ride through the limestone caves, local villages, and rice fields of Tam Coc.
The tour culminates with a climb up 500 steps to the peak of Mua Cave, offering panoramic views of the winding river and picturesque rice paddies below.
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
Visitors to the Ninh Binh day trip start their journey by exploring the historic Hoa Lu Ancient Capital.
They’ll visit ancient temples dedicated to Vietnam’s first kings, the Dinh and Le dynasties, who ruled in the 10th-11th centuries. Travelers learn about this important period in Vietnamese history, walking the grounds where the capital once stood.
The visit lasts around 1.5 hours, providing an insightful look into the nation’s past before continuing on to the scenic limestone landscapes of Tam Coc and Mua Cave.
Tam Coc Boat Ride
After exploring the historic Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, travelers embark on a peaceful 1-hour sampan ride through the limestone caves, local villages, and rice fields of Tam Coc.
The scenic boat ride offers a unique perspective of the stunning natural landscape:
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Gliding through the three main caves, carved by the Ngo Dong River over thousands of years.
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Passing by lush green rice paddies and local villages, where people farm and live in harmony with the environment.
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Witnessing the towering limestone karsts rising from the water, a breathtaking sight.
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Enjoying the tranquility and serenity of the boat ride, a serene contrast to the bustling city.
Mua Cave
Next, travelers climb 500 steps to the peak of Mua Cave for stunning panoramic views.
From the summit, they gaze upon the winding river, lush rice fields, and the iconic karst landscape of Tam Coc. The highlight is a famous dragon statue, carved into the mountainside.
This viewpoint offers a breathtaking perspective of the region’s natural beauty. After taking in the scenery, visitors descend the stairs and continue their journey through this remarkable landscape.
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Tour Features
The Ninh Binh day trip offers several appealing features that enhance the overall experience.
The tour includes an English-speaking local guide who provides insightful commentary throughout the journey. Plus, the package covers entrance fees, a buffet lunch, and complimentary bottled water, ensuring a hassle-free and comfortable adventure.
Transportation with air conditioning is provided during the various activities, allowing visitors to explore the region in comfort.
Finally, the tour features a flexible cancellation policy, with the option to receive a full refund up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind for travelers.
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Live English-speaking local guide
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Includes entrance fees, buffet lunch, and bottled water
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Air-conditioned transportation during activities
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Flexible cancellation policy with full refund up to 24 hours in advance
Pickup and Drop-off Details
The Ninh Binh day trip provides convenient pickup and drop-off arrangements for participants.
Pickup is included from hotels in Hanoi’s Old Quarter or Hanoi Opera House between 7:00-8:00 AM. After the day’s activities, the tour returns to Hoàn Kiếm. This ensures a seamless start and end to the excursion.
The tour transportation with air conditioning is provided during the activities, making the journey comfortable. Participants need not worry about navigating on their own as the tour handles all the logistics, allowing them to fully immerse in the Ninh Binh experience.
Additional Information
Although the itinerary highlights the key attractions, participants should note that the schedule is subject to change based on availability and starting times.
Plus, there’s a surcharge of $10 USD per person on Lunar New Year holidays. Here are some other important considerations:
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Participants are responsible for their own personal expenses and tips.
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The tour includes air-conditioned transportation during activities, but not for the entire duration.
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Bottled water is provided, but participants may want to bring additional snacks or drinks.
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The Mua Cave climb can be challenging, so suitable footwear is recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?
The tour details do not specify a maximum group size. The tour includes pickup, transportation, guide, entrance fees, and lunch, but personal expenses and tips are not included.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions or requirements. It’s suitable for all ages, from young kids to seniors. Families and groups of all sizes can enjoy the day trip.
Can Dietary Restrictions Be Accommodated During the Lunch?
The tour can accommodate dietary restrictions for the buffet lunch, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options. Guests should inform the tour operator of any special dietary needs when booking the tour.
Are There Any Recommended Items to Bring for the Day Trip?
The tour recommends bringing comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and cash for any personal expenses. Participants should also be prepared for the boat ride and stair-climbing activities during the day trip.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration or Add Additional Activities?
Yes, travelers can extend the tour duration or add additional activities. The tour operator offers customizable options, allowing visitors to tailor the experience to their preferences and interests within the Ninh Binh region.
The Sum Up
This private day trip to Ninh Binh promises a captivating blend of cultural exploration, serene natural beauty, and adventurous activities. Visitors will discover the historic Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, enjoy a peaceful sampan ride through Tam Coc’s limestone caves and rice fields, and be rewarded with panoramic views after climbing to Mua Cave’s peak. It’s an experience that showcases the diverse wonders of this stunning region.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Tour Reviews in Ninh Binh
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