Discover the stunning natural and cultural wonders of Ninh Binh on this comprehensive day trip from Hanoi. Explore the ancient royal capital of Hoa Lu, climb the Mua Cave steps for panoramic views, and drift through the serene Tam Coc caves by rowboat. With a delicious buffet lunch, guided support, and convenient round-trip transfers, this tour offers an unforgettable experience. Uncover the beauty and history that Ninh Binh has to offer, and prepare to be captivated by the region’s breathtaking landscapes.

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Key Points

This full-day tour from Hanoi takes visitors to the scenic Ninh Binh province, located 100 km southeast of the capital, to explore Tam Coc, Hoa Lu, and Mua Cave.
The tour includes roundtrip transportation from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, a 2-hour rowboat trip through the Tam Coc caves, and visits to the Dinh King Temple and Le King Temple in Hoa Lu.
Travelers can climb 500 steps to the top of Mua Cave for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, and a buffet lunch with vegetarian options is provided.
The tour is priced between $43.84 and $54.80 per person, with a 20% savings, and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Tour features include an English-speaking guide, complimentary bottled water, and all entry fees, with positive customer reviews highlighting the exceptional value and quality of the experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour, titled "Tam Coc Boat Trip and Hoa Lu & Mua Cave Tour," takes visitors to the captivating Ninh Binh province, situated 100 km southeast of Hanoi.

Priced at $43.84 to $54.80 per person, this 1-day excursion offers a 20% savings. It includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve a spot without immediate payment.

The tour’s flexible scheduling allows for a 07:00-07:30 pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, with a return by 19:00.

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Itinerary Highlights

After the pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter between 07:00-07:30, the tour first visits Hoa Lu, the ancient royal capital of Vietnam. Guests explore the Dinh King Temple and Le King Temple, gaining insights into the region’s history.

| Itinerary | | |

| — | — | — |

| Pickup from Hanoi | 07:00 – 07:30 | |

| Visit Hoa Lu | Ancient Royal Capital | Dinh King Temple, Le King Temple |

| Mua Cave | Climb 500 steps | Panoramic views |

| Tam Coc | Rowboat trip | 3 caves, 2 hours |

| Return to Hanoi | 17:00 departure | 19:00 arrival |

The tour then ventures to Mua Cave, where guests climb 500 steps for panoramic views. Finally, the highlight is a relaxing 2-hour rowboat trip through the three caves of Tam Coc.

Tour Features and Inclusions

This tour includes an English-speaking guide who accompanies guests throughout the day.

Transfers from the Old Quarter of Hanoi are provided, ensuring a seamless start to the adventure. Guests will enjoy a buffet lunch with vegetarian options, refueling for the day’s activities.

Entry fees for all attractions are covered, allowing for hassle-free exploration. A complimentary bottle of water is included per person, and tips for the guide and driver are taken care of.

Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is recommended to make the most of this immersive experience in Ninh Binh.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

With an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 627 reviews, this tour has consistently impressed customers.

The guide and transportation receive high marks of 4.5/5, showcasing the tour’s excellent execution. Reviewers highlight the wonderful guide, amazing buffet lunch, and stunning sites visited.

One Australian traveler, Nicole, raved about the experience, while a UK visitor, Kira, praised the tour as well-organized with a fantastic guide.

An Italian tourist, Gaia, enthusiastically recommended the tour as "super recommended" and "very nice and interesting."

With these glowing reviews, the Tam Coc Boat Trip and Hoa Lu & Mua Cave Tour appears to deliver exceptional value.

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Important Information and Recommendations

Pickup for the tour occurs in the Old Quarter of Hanoi, so travelers should wait in their hotel lobby 5 minutes before the scheduled departure time. To ensure a smooth experience, it’s recommended to bring the following:

| What to Bring | Why |

|————–|—–|

| Comfortable Shoes | For walking and climbing stairs |

| Hat and Sunscreen | To protect from the sun |

| Comfortable Clothes | For a full day of sightseeing |

Plus, providing a WhatsApp number for the guide allows for easy communication throughout the day. While the itinerary is subject to change for operational reasons, the tour promises a memorable experience.

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Exploring the Ancient Royal Capital of Hoa Lu

After departing Hanoi, the tour begins with a visit to the ancient royal capital of Hoa Lu.

Guests explore the Dinh King Temple and Le King Temple, remnants of the 10th-century Dinh and Le dynasties. The temples offer insight into Vietnam’s rich history and serve as a gateway to understanding the nation’s cultural heritage.

Visitors can wander the grounds, admire the intricate architecture, and imagine the grandeur of the former royal capital. This experience provides a meaningful introduction to the day’s activities, setting the stage for the stunning natural wonders that await at Mua Cave and Tam Coc.

Climbing the Mua Cave Steps for Panoramic Views

Departing from the ancient Hoa Lu, the tour now moves to the Mua Cave.

Visitors climb 500 steps up the mountain to reach the cave’s panoramic viewpoint. The strenuous ascent rewards trekkers with stunning vistas overlooking the karst landscape and winding Ngo Dong River.

Visitors must ascend 500 steps to reach the panoramic viewpoint, rewarded with stunning vistas of the karst landscape and Ngo Dong River.

Towering limestone cliffs and lush greenery create a breathtaking backdrop. At the top, guests can relax and soak in the 360-degree views.

While challenging, the climb is well worth the effort for the incredible photo opportunities and sense of accomplishment.

Afterwards, the tour continues with the relaxing Tam Coc boat trip through the three caves.

Relaxing Boat Trip Through the Tam Coc Caves

After the challenging climb up the Mua Cave steps, travelers can look forward to the relaxing Tam Coc boat trip.

The 2-hour journey takes them through a scenic river surrounded by limestone karst mountains. Gliding peacefully on the small, traditional boats, visitors can admire the lush green rice fields and spot water buffaloes grazing on the banks.

The highlight is passing through three natural caves carved into the rock formations. The serene atmosphere and breathtaking landscape make this boat trip a truly memorable experience during the full-day tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Children Participate in This Tour?

Yes, children can participate in this tour. The tour is family-friendly and welcomes children of all ages. Parents should ensure their children wear appropriate clothing and footwear for the boat trip and climbing at Mua Cave.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour recommends wearing weather-appropriate, comfortable clothing. Casual and lightweight attire is best, as the itinerary involves boat trips and hiking. Avoid wearing formal or restrictive clothing that could hinder mobility during the activities.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?

Participants are allowed to bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages on the tour. However, a buffet lunch is provided, so bringing a full meal is unnecessary. It’s best to pack light and comfortable.

Is There an Option for Private/Customized Tours?

Yes, private and customized tours are available for this Tam Coc and Hoa Lu & Mua Cave experience. Travelers can tailor the itinerary and activities to their preferences by contacting the tour operator directly.

How Accessible Is the Tour for People With Disabilities?

The tour has limited accessibility for people with disabilities. The Mua Cave climb of 500 steps and rowboat ride through caves may present challenges. Wheelchair users and those with mobility issues should consult the tour operator for alternate arrangements.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a captivating blend of historical, cultural, and natural wonders. Visitors can explore the ancient royal capital of Hoa Lu, challenge themselves with the climb to Mua Cave’s viewpoint, and enjoy a serene boat trip through the picturesque Tam Coc caves. With a delicious buffet lunch, English-speaking guides, and convenient transportation, this full-day adventure is a must-do for those seeking to experience the stunning beauty of Ninh Binh.