From Hanoi: Ninh Binh- Hoa Lu-Tam Coc- Mua Cave- Highlight

Set out on a captivating journey from Hanoi to the stunning Ninh Binh region. Explore the historic Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, cruise the serene Tam Coc waterways, and conquer the 500-step trek to Mua Cave for breathtaking panoramic views. This 12-hour excursion promises a unique blend of culture, natural beauty, and local cuisine. Discover why Ninh Binh is known as the "Ha Long Bay on Land" and uncover the hidden gems that make this destination a must-visit.

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Key Points

Comprehensive tour of Ninh Binh region, including the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, scenic boat cruise on Tam Coc, and challenging hike up Mua Cave.
Explore the 10th-11th century temples and relics of Hoa Lu, the former capital of Vietnam, to gain insights into the country’s rich history.
Experience a leisurely bike tour or village walk in Hoa Lu to observe local life and traditional architecture.
Savor a sumptuous buffet lunch featuring local specialties, including the renowned goat meat.
Capture breathtaking panoramic views of Ninh Binh’s limestone karsts and serene waterways from the Mua Cave lookout point.

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Tour Overview

This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the captivating Ninh Binh region, known for its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

Priced from $44.65 per person, the 12-hour journey includes roundtrip transportation from Hanoi. Conducted in English and Vietnamese, the tour features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

This 12-hour journey from Hanoi is priced at $44.65 per person and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

With a morning pickup between 7:15-8:00 AM, guests can expect a fulfilling day visiting historic sites, experiencing local cuisine, and taking in breathtaking river scenery.

The tour provides an excellent opportunity to take in the natural and cultural wonders of this captivating Vietnamese destination.

Looking for more options in Ninh Binh? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

After the pickup and short break, the tour takes visitors to Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam during the 10th and 11th centuries. Here, guests will explore the temples of King Dinh and King Le, learning about the region’s rich history. The visit lasts approximately 1.5 hours and can be experienced through an optional bike tour or village exploration on foot.

| King Dinh Temple | King Le Temple | Hoa Lu Village |

| — | — | — |

| Dedicated to Dinh Bo Linh, the first emperor of the Dinh Dynasty | Dedicated to Le Dai Hanh, the first emperor of the early Le Dynasty | Offers a glimpse into traditional Vietnamese rural life |

| Constructed in the 10th century | Constructed in the 11th century | Features local handicrafts and community interactions |

Bike Tour and Village Exploration

Visitors can choose to explore Hoa Lu on a 40-minute bike tour or by wandering through the village on foot.

Visitors can explore Hoa Lu on a 40-minute bike tour or by wandering through the village on foot.

The bike tour allows travelers to cover more ground, weaving through the ancient capital’s narrow streets and past historical sites like the temples of King Dinh and King Le.

For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, the village walk offers a chance to immerse in local life, observing daily activities and traditional architecture.

Both options provide opportunities to experience the rich history and culture of the former Vietnamese capital.

Buffet Lunch With Local Specialties

A sumptuous buffet lunch featuring local specialties, including the renowned goat meat, awaits visitors during the tour.

Served over 1.5 hours, the meal offers a chance to savor the flavors of Ninh Binh. The buffet showcases a variety of Vietnamese cuisine, giving travelers a chance to explore the regional culinary heritage.

From savory stir-fries to fragrant rice dishes, the spread caters to diverse tastes. Seated in a local restaurant, guests can enjoy the lively atmosphere as they enjoy the hearty and wholesome lunch.

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Tam Coc Boat Cruise

The Tam Coc boat cruise is a highlight of the tour, offering visitors a unique perspective on the region’s stunning landscape. Gliding through the serene waterways, travelers are treated to breathtaking views of the limestone karsts rising from the river. The cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours, providing ample time to soak in the natural beauty.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Duration | 1.5 hours |

| Scenery | Limestone karsts, serene waterways |

| Experience | Peaceful boat ride, unique perspective |

After the boat tour, visitors can explore the Mua Cave, climbing 500 steps for panoramic vistas of the region.

There's plenty more to explore in Ninh Binh

Mua Cave and Panoramic Views

After the serene Tam Coc boat cruise, travelers can embark on the Mua Cave excursion, which offers panoramic views of the stunning Ninh Binh landscape.

The climb up 500 steps leads to a lookout point atop the limestone mountain, providing sweeping vistas of the surrounding karst formations, rivers, and lush greenery.

Climbing 500 steps leads to a lookout point atop the limestone mountain, revealing sweeping vistas of the stunning karst formations and lush greenery.

Visitors can capture breathtaking photos and soak in the natural beauty.

The Mua Cave experience is a highlight of the tour, allowing travelers to appreciate the majestic scenery from a higher vantage point before continuing their journey through this picturesque region.

Return to Hanoi

Completing the day’s adventures, the tour departs Ninh Binh around 17:00, providing ample time for the return journey to Hanoi. Travelers can expect to arrive at their Hanoi accommodations between 19:00 and 19:30, allowing for a leisurely evening.

| Estimated Arrival Time | Approximate Duration |

| ——————— | ——————- |

| 19:00 | 2 hours |

| 19:15 | 2 hours, 15 minutes |

| 19:30 | 2 hours, 30 minutes |

Along the way, the guide provides commentary on the day’s highlights and offers suggestions for evening activities in Hanoi. The return trip offers a chance to reflect on the memorable experiences of exploring Ninh Binh’s natural and cultural wonders.

Inclusions and Important Information

This tour includes an array of amenities to enhance the experience.

Travelers will have an English-speaking guide to provide insights throughout the day. Limousine transfers are included for pickup and drop-off, ensuring a comfortable journey. Bottled water is provided on the bus, and a delightful buffet lunch featuring local Vietnamese specialties, including goat meat, is served.

Hats and rain ponchos are available if needed. All sightseeing tickets and boat fees are covered, and tipping for the guide and driver is also included.

Guests should bring sunglasses, a hat, camera, and sunscreen to make the most of this exciting tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book Tours on the Same Day as the Trip?

Yes, you can book the tour on the same day as the trip, but it’s generally recommended to book in advance to ensure availability and secure your spot. Last-minute bookings may be subject to limited options.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Buffet Lunch?

The tour includes a buffet lunch featuring local Vietnamese cuisine, but it doesn’t mention any specific dietary restrictions. Travelers with dietary requirements should contact the tour operator in advance to inquire about accommodations.

How Long Is the Boat Ride at Tam Coc?

The boat ride at Tam Coc lasts approximately 1.5 hours. Guests will experience the scenic "Halong Bay on land" as they cruise along the Ngo Dong River through the limestone karst landscapes.

Can I Leave the Group at Any Point During the Tour?

While the tour is organized as a group activity, participants can generally leave the group at any point during the tour. However, doing so may impact the included transportation and activities. It’s best to discuss any plans to deviate with the guide beforehand.

Is There a Discount for Booking With a Larger Group?

There’s no explicit group discount mentioned, but the tour price is per person. So booking with a larger group may help reduce the overall cost per traveler, though individual pricing remains the same.

The Sum Up

This captivating 12-hour journey from Hanoi to Ninh Binh offers a unique blend of history, culture, and stunning natural beauty. Explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, indulge in local cuisine, and embark on a serene boat cruise through Tam Coc. Challenge yourself with a trek up Mua Cave for breathtaking panoramic views, before returning to Hanoi. A must-do experience for those seeking an immersive cultural and outdoor adventure.