Commence on a spellbinding cultural journey through the Vietnamese countryside with this immersive tour. Witness the majestic water buffaloes as you ride them across lush fields, explore the centuries-old traditions of fishing and rice planting, and glide peacefully along the serene Tam Coc waterway. But the adventure doesn’t stop there – venture into the mesmerizing Mua Cave, where you’ll discover natural wonders that will leave you in awe. This all-encompassing experience offers a unique glimpse into the daily life and customs of rural Vietnam, providing an unforgettable opportunity to connect with the local way of living. Intrigued? Read on to uncover the details of this remarkable tour.
Key Points

- A comprehensive tour experience that includes riding water buffaloes, fishing, boating in Tam Coc, and exploring the Mua Cave.
- Opportunities to participate in traditional Vietnamese activities like rice planting, catching freshwater fish, and learning local culinary techniques.
- Guided by experienced local handlers, offering an immersive and culturally enriching experience.
- Scenic countryside landscapes, including rice paddies, limestone karsts, and lush mountain vistas.
- Hands-on cooking class to prepare authentic Vietnamese dishes and savor a delectable local lunch.
👉 Check out our guide to the 20 Best 2 Day Tours In Ninh Binh
Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview
- Itinerary
- Inclusions
- Exclusions
- Pricing and Booking
- Buffalo Riding Experience
- Fishing and Rice Planting
- Tam Coc Boat Trip and Ngoa Long Trek
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?
- Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Activities?
- Can Vegetarian/Vegan Meals Be Accommodated?
- Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
- Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Ninh Binh
- More Tours in Ninh Binh
- More Tour Reviews in Ninh Binh
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Ninh Binh we have recnetly reviewed
Tour Overview

Covering a range of immersive cultural experiences, this full-day tour invites travelers to explore the idyllic Vietnamese countryside through activities such as buffalo riding, fishing, and a visit to the mesmerizing Mua Cave.
Over the course of a day, you will have the opportunity to get up close and personal with the local way of life, from feeding and showering buffalos to planting rice alongside farmers.
The tour also includes a boat trip through the serene Tam Coc region, showcasing the region’s stunning natural beauty.
Whether it’s trekking up Ngoa Long mountain or indulging in a hands-on cooking class, this tour promises an unforgettable glimpse into authentic Vietnamese culture.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Ninh Binh.
Itinerary

The tour kicks off with an early morning departure from Hanoi, as participants set out on a 110km journey through the picturesque Vietnamese countryside, arriving at their first destination around 10 AM.
At this point, the group has the opportunity to:
- Feed and shower the friendly buffalo, followed by an exhilarating buffalo riding experience.
- Catch fish alongside the local villagers, gaining insight into traditional fishing methods.
- Learn the art of planting Vietnamese rice, getting their hands dirty in the lush paddy fields.
After these engaging activities, the group indulges in a rejuvenating waterfall bathing session and explores the nearby Buffalo Cave, before undertaking a cooking class and savoring a delectable local meal.
Inclusions

This tour includes a thorough package of activities and amenities. Pick-up and drop-off services whisk participants from their Hanoi accommodations, while an English-speaking guide accompanies the group throughout the day’s adventures.
Visitors can savor a delectable local lunch featuring Vietnamese dishes, and set out on a scenic boat trip exploring the Tam Coc caves.
Plus, the experience encompasses buffalo riding, fishing, rice planting, and a cooking class, providing a well-rounded glimpse into Vietnamese rural life.
Travelers can enjoy the country’s natural beauty and cultural traditions, making the most of this extensive day tour.
Exclusions

What does the tour exclude?
Beverages, travel insurance, and tips aren’t included in the tour package price. Participants are responsible for covering the cost of any personal drinks or snacks they wish to purchase, as well as their own travel insurance and gratuities for the guide and other service providers.
The exclusions for this tour are:
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Beverages: Participants must pay for any drinks or snacks they want to enjoy during the tour.
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Travel insurance: Guests are required to obtain their own travel insurance coverage.
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Tips: While not mandatory, tips for the guide and other service providers are appreciated and not included in the tour cost.
Pricing and Booking

The tour is priced from $145.26 per person and can be booked with a reserve now, pay later option.
Children aged 5-8 years are eligible for a 75% discounted rate, while those 9 years and above pay the full adult price; children under 5 can join the tour for free, excluding entry fees and meals.
This detailed day-long excursion offers a variety of activities, including riding buffaloes, fishing, boating through the Tam Coc caves, and exploring the Mua Cave.
The tour package includes pick-up and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, a traditional Vietnamese lunch, and all the highlighted activities.
Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, making it a convenient and flexible booking experience.
Buffalo Riding Experience

After a 110km journey from Hanoi through the scenic countryside, visitors get to experience the thrill of riding water buffaloes, gentle giants that are integral to Vietnamese agriculture and culture.
The buffalo riding experience includes:
- Feeding and showering the buffaloes to build a connection with the animals.
- Mounting the buffaloes and maneuvering them through shallow waters and rice paddies, guided by experienced local handlers.
- Capturing memorable photos and videos of this unique activity that offers a glimpse into the daily lives of Vietnamese farmers.
The buffalo riding is just one highlight of this immersive tour, which also includes fishing, boating, and exploring the Mua Cave, providing a well-rounded experience of Vietnam’s stunning natural landscapes and traditional way of life.
Fishing and Rice Planting

Visitors then get to try their hand at traditional fishing methods, working alongside local experts to catch freshwater fish in the nearby streams and ponds.
Following the fishing activity, they venture into the rice fields to learn the intricate process of planting rice, an integral part of Vietnamese agriculture and a key staple crop.
Under the guidance of the locals, guests have the opportunity to walk through the lush green paddies and get hands-on experience with the traditional techniques used to prepare the soil, transplant seedlings, and tend to the growing plants.
This immersive experience offers a glimpse into the daily lives and customs of the rural Vietnamese people, fostering a deeper appreciation for their time-honored traditions.
Tam Coc Boat Trip and Ngoa Long Trek

Next, travelers commence on a tranquil boat trip along the Tam Coc waterway, gliding through the serene landscapes and picturesque limestone karsts that have earned the area the nickname ‘Halong Bay on Land’. During this leisurely voyage, they witness the untouched beauty of the surrounding countryside, with lush rice paddies, towering cliffs, and peaceful villages lining the riverbanks.
The tour then takes them on a trek up the Ngoa Long mountain, where they’re rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the sprawling rice valley below.
Some highlights of the trek include:
- Panoramic views of the Tam Coc region
- Witnessing the local farmers tending to their rice fields
- Exploring the lush, verdant landscapes of the mountain
Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?
The tour’s maximum group size is not explicitly stated in the provided knowledge. However, the tour includes a range of interactive activities, suggesting it is likely designed for small to medium-sized groups to facilitate an immersive and personalized experience.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Activities?
The tour has specific age restrictions for certain activities. Children aged 5-8 pay 75% of the full price, while children 9 and above pay the full price. Children under 5 can participate for free, excluding entry fees and meals.
Can Vegetarian/Vegan Meals Be Accommodated?
The tour can accommodate vegetarian and vegan meals upon request. Guests should inform the tour operator of any dietary restrictions when booking so the necessary arrangements can be made to certify they enjoy a satisfying and inclusive experience.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
The tour operator offers an option to extend the tour duration, allowing guests to explore more of the countryside and activities. Longer tours can be customized to include additional experiences like hiking, village visits, or cultural demonstrations.
Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?
Yes, this tour can be booked as a private tour instead of a group tour. Private tours allow for a more personalized experience and flexibility in the itinerary. Inquire with the tour operator about the private tour option and any additional fees.
Tour Experience Riding Buffalo,Fishing, Boating and Mua Cave
Recap
This immersive tour through the Vietnamese countryside offers an unforgettable cultural experience.
Guests can ride majestic water buffaloes, learn traditional fishing and rice planting techniques, glide along the serene Tam Coc waterway, and explore the mesmerizing Mua Cave.
It’s an extraordinary opportunity to connect with the local way of life and create lasting memories of Vietnam’s natural wonders and daily customs.
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