HA NOI: EXPLORE HOA LU – CYCLING - TRANG AN 1 DAY TRIP

This one-day adventure from Hanoi offers a chance to take in Vietnam’s rich history and natural beauty. Cycling through the serene countryside, exploring the ancient citadels of Hoa Lu, and drifting along the stunning Trang An Grottoes provide an unparalleled opportunity to experience the best of northern Vietnam. With an expert guide, delectable local cuisine, and seamless transportation, this captivating trip promises a day filled with unforgettable memories. But the true allure lies in the chance to uncover the hidden gems that make this region so captivating.

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Key Points

A one-day cycling tour in Ninh Binh province that combines visits to Hoa Lu’s ancient citadels, countryside cycling, and a boat ride through the Trang An Grottoes UNESCO site.
The tour includes hotel pickup, English-speaking guide, bottled water, buffet lunch, and all entrance fees, with an approximate duration of 12 hours and a starting cost of $43.84 per person.
Highlights of the tour include exploring the 17th-century Dinh King Temple and Le King Temple, cycling along scenic rural roads and canals, and gliding through limestone caves and temples in the Trang An Grottoes.
The tour is flexible, with the option to upgrade transportation for an additional fee, and is suitable for children aged 5 and above, with discounted rates for those aged 5-8.
Cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the tour does not require any upfront payment, making it convenient for travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview

This one-day cycling trip takes travelers to the historic Hoa Lu region and the scenic Trang An Grottoes in Ninh Binh province.

The tour lasts around 12 hours and costs from $43.84 per person. Travelers can enjoy visiting ancient citadels, cycling rural roads, and taking a boat ride through limestone caves and valleys.

The tour includes hotel pickup, an English-speaking guide, water, lunch, and all entrance fees.

Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Reservations don’t require upfront payment.

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Destination Highlights

Although the cycling trip covers multiple destinations, the highlights of the journey undoubtedly lie in the ancient citadel of Hoa Lu and the breathtaking Trang An Grottoes.

At Hoa Lu, visitors can explore the Dinh King Temple and Le King Temple, remnants of the 17th-century capital. The cycling through rural roads and villages offers a chance to immerse in the serene countryside.

Trang An Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site, dazzles with its limestone massifs, valleys, ponds, and jungles. Here, travelers can embark on a traditional sampan ride to discover the caves, temples, and natural wonders of this captivating landscape.

Itinerary Breakdown

The day begins with a convenient hotel pickup in the Old Quarter of Hanoi at around 7:30-8:00 AM, followed by a 110-kilometer bus journey through the picturesque countryside.

At 10:15, the group visits the Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel, exploring the Dinh King Temple and Le King Temple from the 17th century.

After, they enjoy a leisurely cycle on rural roads alongside canals and through villages, arriving at Thelong restaurant for a local cuisine lunch with a Tamcoc panorama view.

The afternoon is spent exploring the Trang An Grottoes, a limestone massif with valleys, ponds, and jungle, before returning to Hanoi by 6 PM.

Included Activities

The cycling trip offers the opportunity to experience rural roads and scenic landscapes. Participants can enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the canal network and through local villages.

The boat tour through the Trang An Grottoes allows visitors to explore the limestone massif, valleys, ponds, and jungle. Travelers will glide through caves, including Lam, Vang, Dai, and Thanh Truot, as well as temples like Cao Sơn, Suoi Tien, and Vu Lam.

This full-day excursion provides a diverse range of activities to immerse in the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Ninh Binh region.

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Inclusions and Exclusions

This cycling trip includes several key items for participants. The package covers hotel pickup, an English-speaking guide, two bottles of water per person, a buffet lunch, and all entrance fees. However, it excludes beverages, travel insurance, tips, and personal expenses. Plus, there is a holiday surcharge for certain dates.

| Inclusions | Exclusions |

| — | — |

| Hotel pick-up | Beverages |

| Professional guide | Travel insurance |

| Bottled water | Tips |

| Buffet lunch | Personal expenses |

| Entrance fees | Holiday surcharge |

Transport upgrades, such as a limousine bus, are available for an additional fee of 100,000 VND per person.

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Important Considerations

While this cycling trip may not be suitable for people over 95 years old, it does cater to a range of age groups.

Children aged 5-8 are charged 75% of the full price, and those 9 and older pay the full 100%. Kids under 5 can join for free, though entrance fees, meals, and bus seats aren’t included.

For the younger adventurers, those aged 5-8 pay 75% of the full price, while those 9 and up pay the full 100%. Under 5s can join for free, but extras aren’t included.

Guests should avoid bringing alcohol and drugs, as these are prohibited.

For an additional fee, travelers can upgrade to a spacious 19-seat limousine bus.

Transport Options

One transport option for this cycling trip is an upgraded limousine bus. For an additional fee of 100,000 VND per person, travelers can enjoy the comfort and convenience of a 19-seat limousine bus instead of the standard minibus. The limousine bus offers more legroom, larger windows, and a smoother ride. This may be a suitable choice for those who prioritize comfort during the 110km journey.

| Feature | Standard Minibus | Limousine Bus |

| — | — | — |

| Seating Capacity | 19 seats | 19 seats |

| Legroom | Standard | Increased |

| Window Size | Standard | Larger |

| Ride Comfort | Basic | Smoother |

| Additional Cost | – | 100,000 VND per person |

Reservation and Cancellation Policy

Booking this cycling trip is simple and hassle-free.

Travelers can reserve their spot without any upfront payment. The booking is done through a "reserve now & pay later" system, allowing guests to secure their place without an initial deposit.

Guests can reserve their spot without any upfront payment thanks to the "reserve now & pay later" booking system.

The cancellation policy is also flexible – travelers can cancel their booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This provides peace of mind and flexibility, ensuring customers can plan their trip with confidence.

Whether it’s a last-minute decision or a well-planned adventure, this cycling tour to Hoa Lu and Trang An offers a convenient booking experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Available in Languages Other Than English?

The tour is available in English. While the tour description doesn’t mention other languages, travelers should inquire with the tour provider about the availability of guides in other languages to accommodate their needs.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to suit individual preferences. Travelers can work with the tour operator to adjust the itinerary, activities, or other aspects of the trip within reasonable limits.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Group Bookings?

Yes, there are group discounts available for this tour. Bookings of 3 or more people receive a 10% discount per person. The more people in the group, the higher the potential savings.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

No, you cannot bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The package includes a buffet lunch and 2 bottles of water per person. Any additional beverages or personal snacks must be purchased separately.

What Is the Best Way to Get to the Meeting Point?

The tour includes hotel pickup in the Old Quarter of Hanoi, so the best way to get to the meeting point is to wait at your hotel for the guide. They’ll come pick you up and transport you to the starting location.

The Sum Up

This one-day trip from Hanoi offers a captivating blend of history, nature, and adventure. Explore the ancient citadels of Hoa Lu, cycle through picturesque countryside, and discover the breathtaking Trang An Grottoes by traditional sampan. With an expert guide, delicious local lunch, and seamless transportation, this journey is a must-do for culture seekers and cycling enthusiasts alike.