Hanoi: 3-Day Lan Ha Bay, Ninh Binh Excursion, Small Group

Planning a trip to Vietnam and want an adventure that balances natural beauty, cultural sites, and cozy accommodations? This 3-day small group tour from Hanoi offers an enticing mix of cruising, exploring historic villages, and visiting iconic sights in Ninh Binh. The combination of Lan Ha Bay’s tranquil waters and Ninh Binh’s fascinating historical landmarks promises an experience packed with memorable moments.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour are the well-curated itinerary, the authentic local meals, and the small group setting that allows for more personalized attention. The chance to kayak in Lan Ha Bay and stay overnight on a boutique cruise really elevates the adventure. However, one thing to keep in mind is the travel time between destinations, which can be quite long; it’s perfect if you’re eager to see a lot in a short span but might be a bit tiring for some.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love outdoor activities, cultural explorations, and authentic experiences. If you’re after a balanced mix of nature, history, and comfort, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Authentic small group experience ensures more personalized interaction
• Cruise activities include swimming, kayaking, and squid fishing—perfect for active travelers
• Visit top Ninh Binh attractions like Bai Dinh, Trang An, Mua Cave, and Bich Dong Pagoda
• Comfortable accommodation, including a boutique cruise and homestay
• Delicious local cuisine included in all meals
• Flexible booking options with pay-later and cancellation policies

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 3-Day Tour

Day 1: From Hanoi to Lan Ha Bay – The Cruise Begins

Your adventure kicks off bright and early with a pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter around 7:45 AM. You’ll hop on a comfortable bus heading to Cat Ba Island, a journey that takes around four hours, but much of it is rewarded with scenic views of the countryside and coastline. The fact that this is a small group tour means you’ll get a more relaxed, less hurried vibe compared to larger tours, and the guides often share interesting tidbits about local life along the way.

Once you arrive at Cai Beo Harbour, the real fun begins. You board a cozy cruise where you’ll stay overnight. The cabins are private and well-kept, offering a peaceful retreat after a day of sightseeing. Expect a hearty lunch as you cruise towards the Ba Trai Dao area—this is a chance to get your first taste of the bay’s stunning scenery.

In the afternoon, you’ll visit the Dark and Light Caves, which are accessible via kayak—a highlight for many travelers who love a bit of adventure. The caves are dramatic and give you a taste of the bay’s unique limestone formations. A swim in the crystal-clear waters is often mentioned as a standout moment, with reviews praising how refreshing and fun it is to dip into Lan Ha Bay’s calm waters.

As sunset approaches, you’ll return to the cruise, where you can enjoy panoramic views from the top deck. The onboard cooking class, featuring traditional Vietnamese dishes, is a delightful touch—many guests mentioned how tasty and authentic the food is, enhancing the overall experience. At night, squid fishing is offered, which is a fun and unusual activity that adds a layer of local flavor to your evening.

Day 2: From Lan Ha Bay to Ninh Binh

The second day begins with a spectacular sunrise, often described as “peaceful and breathtaking”. You’ll have breakfast onboard, soaking in the calm of the bay before heading to Viet Hai Village on Cat Ba Island. Here, many reviews highlight the electric car or bicycle ride through lush rainforests, which is a refreshing change from the sea activities. Visitors love how interactive and authentic this village visit feels, with chances to chat with locals and see traditional houses.

Following the village exploration, the cruise continues with a delicious lunch onboard, giving you a taste of fresh seafood and local flavors. Afterward, you disembark at Cai Beo port and head south to Ninh Binh, a drive of roughly two hours. The arrival at your homestay signals a shift from boat to land-based discovery, and the accommodations are praised for their cozy, authentic atmosphere.

Evening is yours to relax and explore the surroundings or grab dinner at the homestay. This blend of sea and land keeps the journey dynamic, and reviewers appreciated the smooth transition between the two.

Day 3: Exploring Ninh Binh’s Cultural and Natural Gems

Your final day starts early with breakfast and a quick check-out. The first stop is Mua Cave, where the 500-step climb to the top rewards you with sweeping views of the countryside—something many travelers find “absolutely worth the effort.” The top offers photo opportunities that capture the beauty of the area, and guides often share stories about local legends connected to the site.

Next, you visit Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s ancient capital, with its historic temples and ruins. Many guests mention the knowledgeable guides who shared insightful stories about Vietnam’s royal past, making the visit both educational and engaging.

After a traditional Vietnamese lunch, you’ll cruise the Trang An eco-tourism complex, gliding through limestone caves and past scenic mountain landscapes. The boat ride, with stops at Sang Cave, Toi Cave, Ba Giot Cave, and Nau Ruou, is described as “peaceful and photography-friendly,” with many guests noting the impressive geology and lush surroundings.

The final stop is Bich Dong Pagoda, the oldest pagoda in Ninh Binh, which visitors find charming and tranquil. The blend of natural beauty and spiritual ambiance makes it a fitting end to your adventure.

The tour concludes in the evening with your return to Hanoi around 7:30 PM, giving you ample time to rest or continue your exploration of Vietnam’s capital.

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What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Value for Money: At $221 per person, this tour packs in a lot—cruise activities, cultural visits, and comfortable accommodations—making it a cost-effective way to cover significant highlights of Northern Vietnam.

Authentic Experiences: From kayaking and squid fishing to interacting with locals in Viet Hai Village, the tour emphasizes genuine, hands-on moments rather than scripted activities. Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides who bring stories to life and make the journey more meaningful.

Comfort and Convenience: The combination of a boutique cruise and homestay offers a relaxed atmosphere, with all meals included, so you can focus on the sights rather than logistics. The small group size ensures more personalized attention and a less rushed pace.

Diverse Activities: Whether you’re into outdoor activities like kayaking and swimming or cultural visits to ancient temples and caves, this tour balances adventure with history and spirituality.

Food and Local Cuisine: The included meals are often highlighted as a highlight, with guests raving about the authentic Vietnamese flavors served onboard and at the homestay. The onboard cooking classes are a fun way to learn a new skill while enjoying delicious food.

Considerations to Keep in Mind

While this tour offers a well-rounded experience, the travel between destinations, especially the transfer from Hanoi to Lan Ha Bay and then to Ninh Binh, can be lengthy. Expect early mornings and some long drives—perfect if you’re eager to see a lot but possibly tiring for some travelers.

Also, the excursion is best suited for those comfortable with outdoor activities and a bit of physical exertion, especially during the Mua Cave climb. Travelers should bring suitable shoes, sun protection, and swimwear, as these are recommended for comfort and safety.

The extra surcharge for solo travelers ($65) for a private room might be a consideration if you’re traveling alone and prefer privacy. Otherwise, sharing accommodations with the group keeps costs down without sacrificing comfort.

The Sum Up

This 3-day Lan Ha Bay and Ninh Binh tour offers a thoughtfully crafted experience for those eager to explore Vietnam beyond the bustling streets of Hanoi. It combines scenic boat cruises, cultural sites, and outdoor adventures, all wrapped in a cozy, small group setting that fosters connection and discovery.

Travelers who value authenticity, active pursuits, and local cuisine will find this tour a compelling choice. The balance of guided exploration with free time makes it suitable for both first-time visitors and seasoned travelers looking to deepen their understanding of Northern Vietnam’s natural and cultural treasures.

While it demands a bit of energy and flexibility, it rewards with unforgettable vistas, engaging interactions, and a genuine taste of Vietnamese life. Whether you’re snapping photos from the top of Mua Cave or chatting with locals in Viet Hai Village, this trip promises memories that will last long after you return home.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, transportation from Hanoi to the tour sites, including the cruise, homestay, and return to Hanoi, is included. The bus picks you up from Hanoi Old Quarter and takes you to all major points.

What activities are included on the Lan Ha Bay cruise?
During the cruise, you can enjoy swimming, kayaking, and squid fishing. There’s also a traditional cooking class onboard, making the experience interactive and fun.

Are meals included?
Yes, all meals—3 lunches, 2 breakfasts, and 1 dinner—are included. Many reviews praise the delicious, authentic Vietnamese dishes served during the trip.

How many people are in the small group?
The tour emphasizes small group sizes, which allows for a more personalized experience. Exact group size isn’t specified but is designed to be intimate.

What are the accommodations like?
You’ll stay in a private cabin on the cruise and a homestay in Ninh Binh. Both are considered comfortable and authentic, providing a cozy base after active days.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, camera, sunscreen, and passport are recommended. Packing light and prepared for outdoor activities enhances your experience.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking is flexible with a pay-later option, making it easy to reserve without immediate commitment.

This tour offers a fantastic way to explore the natural beauty and cultural richness of Northern Vietnam with ease and comfort. Whether you’re keen on scenic cruises, cultural sites, or active outdoor pursuits, it provides a well-rounded, value-packed experience that’s hard to beat.

You can check availability for your dates here: