Ninh Binh Trip Visit Hoa Lu Capital -Tam Coc-Biking-Mua Cave

Ninh Binh’s enchanting landscapes draw visitors from around the world. This day-long excursion offers a chance to take in Vietnam’s rich history and natural beauty. From exploring the ancient Hoa Lu Capital to gliding along Tam Coc’s serene waterways, the trip promises a captivating blend of culture and adventure. But the true highlight may just be the rewarding hike up to Mua Cave, where panoramic vistas…

Key Points

• The Ninh Binh trip includes a visit to the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, a sampan boat ride on the Tam Coc river, and a hike to Mua Cave with panoramic views.
• The tour offers a cycling experience through rural Vietnamese landscapes and a buffet lunch featuring both Vietnamese and Western cuisine.
• The trip includes hotel pickup, a professional English-speaking guide, bottled water, entrance fees, and the boat trip and biking tour.
• The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and children under 4 can join for free, with a 75% discount for ages 4-8.
• The trip has received a 5/5 rating based on 3 reviews, with highlights including the knowledgeable guides, enjoyable bike rides, and the historical significance of the Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview and Pricing

The Ninh Binh trip is available from $42.62 per person and lasts for one day.

Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. There’s no need to pay upfront – travelers can reserve their spot and pay later.

The trip departs from Hoan Kiem, Hanoi. It includes hotel pickup, professional guides, bottled water, a buffet lunch, entrance fees, and a boat trip and cycling tour.

Beverages, tips, and personal expenses are excluded. Travelers have the option to upgrade to a limousine bus for an additional 100,000 VND per person.

Children’s pricing varies based on age.

Itinerary Highlights

The Ninh Binh trip begins with hotel/stay pickup between 07:30 – 08:10, followed by a 2.5-hour bus journey to Hoa Lu.

The Ninh Binh trip begins with hotel/stay pickup between 07:30 – 08:10, followed by a 2.5-hour bus journey to Hoa Lu.

Visitors explore the ancient citadel for 1.5 hours. Next, they cycle through villages and canals, arriving at noon for a local buffet lunch.

At 13:30, a 1.5-hour sampan boat trip on the Tam Coc river commences.

Afterward, trekkers hike 75 minutes to the top of Mua Cave for panoramic views.

Finally, the group returns to Hanoi, arriving at their hotel/stay by 18:30.

Activity Details

This Ninh Binh tour lets visitors explore Hoa Lu ancient Capital, Tam Coc, and Mua Cave. Highlights include:

• Cycling through scenic rural landscapes

• Sampling Vietnamese and Western cuisine at local restaurants

• Taking a sampan boat cruise on the Tam Coc river

• Hiking 500 steps to the top of Mua mountain for panoramic views

• Discovering the historic Hoa Lu ancient Citadel

The tour provides an immersive experience, allowing travelers to appreciate Vietnam’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

From ancient landmarks to outdoor adventures, this Ninh Binh excursion offers a well-rounded itinerary that caters to diverse interests.

Inclusions and Exclusions

As the tour includes a comprehensive package, it provides pickup from the hotel in the Old Quarter, a professional English-speaking guide, 2 bottles of water per person, a buffet lunch, entrance fees for Hoa Lu and Mua Cave, a sharing boat trip in Tam Coc, and a biking tour around the villages.

While these are included, the tour excludes beverages, travel insurance, tips, and personal expenses.

Guests can also opt for a limousine bus upgrade at an additional 100,000 VND per person.

Children’s pricing varies based on age, with under 4s free and 4-8 years at 75% of the adult rate.

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Important Information and Reviews

According to the information provided, travelers should bring a hat, umbrella, camera, sports shoes, cash, and personal medication for the Ninh Binh trip.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users. Based on 3 reviews, the overall rating is 5/5, with positive feedback on the knowledgeable guide, enjoyable bike rides, and delicious local cuisine.

The key highlights include:

• Panoramic views from the 500-step trek to the top of Mua Mountain

• Scenic sampan boat ride along the Tam Coc river

• Cycling through picturesque rural landscapes

• Exploring the ancient capital of Hoa Lu

• Savoring a buffet lunch featuring Vietnamese specialties

Exploring Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel

The Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel, once the capital of Vietnam during the Dinh and Early Le dynasties, stands as a testament to the country’s rich history.

Visitors can explore the well-preserved remnants of this ancient city, including the temples dedicated to the Dinh and Le kings.

The citadel’s architecture reflects the architectural styles of the 10th and 11th centuries, providing a unique glimpse into Vietnam’s past.

Guests can wander through the citadel’s winding paths, take in the serene atmosphere, and imagine the vibrant life that once filled these historic grounds.

Tranquil Boat Ride in Tam Coc

After exploring the ancient Hoa Lu Citadel, travelers embark on a tranquil boat ride through the serene waterways of Tam Coc.

The sampan gently glides past towering limestone cliffs, verdant rice paddies, and traditional village life.

The experience offers:

Breathtaking panoramic views of the Ngo Dong River and surrounding karst landscape, with opportunities to witness water buffalo and local fishermen.

• Breathtaking panoramic views of the Ngo Dong River and surrounding karst landscape

• Opportunity to witness water buffalo grazing in the fields

• Glimpses of local fishermen at work, using traditional techniques

• Peaceful ambiance, with the gentle lapping of water and the oar-powered boat

• Chance to capture stunning photographs of the picturesque scenery.

Challenging Hike to the Top of Mua Cave

Following the tour of Hoa Lu and the serene boat ride on the Tam Coc river, travelers now face a challenging hike up to the top of Mua Cave.

The 500-step trek to the summit presents a strenuous test of endurance. Yet the panoramic views from the top, overlooking the karst landscape and winding rivers, make the effort worthwhile.

Navigating the steep, winding stairs requires caution and determination. Travelers are rewarded with a breathtaking perspective that showcases Ninh Binh’s natural splendor.

This vigorous hike is a highlight of the day’s activities, offering both a physical challenge and a scenic payoff.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option to Book a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

The tour offers a private option, allowing travelers to book a personalized experience instead of joining a group. Prices for the private tour may vary, providing a more exclusive and customized experience.

Can I Opt for Vegetarian or Halal Meal Options During the Lunch?

Yes, vegetarian and halal meal options are available during the included buffet lunch. Guests can simply inform the guide about their dietary requirements, and the tour provider will accommodate their needs.

What Is the Best Season to Visit Ninh Binh for Optimal Weather Conditions?

The best season to visit Ninh Binh is during the spring (March-May) or fall (September-November) when the weather’s mild and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities like cycling and hiking. Temperatures are comfortable, and crowds are smaller compared to peak summer.

Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available for This Tour?

This tour offers a few discount options. Children under 4 can join for free, and those 4-8 pay 75% while 9 and up pay full price. There’s also a limousine bus upgrade available for an additional 100,000 VND per person.

Is It Possible to Customize the Itinerary to Include Additional Activities?

Yes, the tour can be customized to include additional activities. Customers can discuss their preferences with the tour operator, who may be able to modify the itinerary to accommodate special requests within the tour’s duration and pricing.

The Sum Up

The Ninh Binh trip offers a captivating blend of history, nature, and adventure. Visitors can explore the ancient Hoa Lu Citadel, glide through the stunning Tam Coc landscapes, and challenge themselves with a rewarding hike to the top of Mua Cave. This comprehensive excursion promises an unforgettable experience, showcasing the diverse wonders of Vietnam’s Ninh Binh region.

You can check availability for your dates here: