From Hanoi: Ninh Binh, Hoa Lu, Tam Coc, and Mua Cave

Escape the bustling streets of Hanoi and embark on a captivating day trip to Ninh Binh. Uncover the region’s ancient history at Hoa Lu, the former capital. Marvel at the serene Tam Coc river as you drift through its limestone karsts. Then, conquer the steps of Mua Cave for breathtaking panoramic views. This enriching excursion promises to immerse you in Vietnam’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Key Points

• The tour explores the historical sites of Ninh Binh, including Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Tam Coc river, and Mua Cave, with a duration of 9-9.5 hours.
• Prices for the tour start from $46.68 per person, with a free cancellation policy and a buffet lunch of local Vietnamese cuisine.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from 16 locations in Hanoi, with a comfortable bus ride to Ninh Binh.
• Tour inclusions are hotel pickup and drop-off, English-speaking guide, 1 bottle of mineral water, and entrance fees, while exclusions include beverages and tips.
• Guests are recommended to bring sun protection, comfortable clothes, and cash for additional expenses, and dress code prohibits shorts in temples.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This tour explores the captivating landscapes of Ninh Binh, Hoa Lu, Tam Coc, and Mua Cave, with prices starting from $46.68 per person.

The 9-9.5 hour experience includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, and entrance fees.

The free cancellation policy allows travelers to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Guests can reserve their spot now and pay later.

The tour features a boat trip, visits to historic sites, and panoramic views from Lying Dragon Mountain, along with a buffet lunch of local Vietnamese cuisine.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour’s itinerary highlights include a visit to the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, which served as the 10th-century capital of Vietnam.

Guests will also enjoy a 1.5-hour eco boat trip along the scenic Tam Coc river.

The tour then takes visitors to the Mua Cave, also known as the Dancing Cave, where they can admire panoramic views from the top of Lying Dragon Mountain.

A buffet lunch featuring local Vietnamese dishes, including options for vegetarians, is provided during the tour.

Transportation and Pickup Information

For this tour, hotel pickup and drop-off is provided from 16 locations in Hanoi, including the Old Quarter.

The journey involves a 110 km bus ride, with a 20-minute break at a local café along the way. The bus ride from Hanoi to Ninh Binh takes approximately 100 minutes.

At the end of the tour, guests will be dropped off at various locations back in Hanoi.

At the conclusion of the tour, guests will be returned to their respective locations throughout Hanoi.

The key transportation details are:

1. Pickup from hotels in Hanoi (16 locations)

2. Travel via bus/coach for the 110 km journey

3. 100-minute bus ride to Ninh Binh, with a 20-minute café break

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional English-speaking guide, 1 bottle of mineral water per person, and entrance fees for Hoa Lu citadel, the boat trip in Tam Coc, and Mua Cave. However, beverages and tips for the tour guide, driver, and local boat rower are excluded.

| Inclusions | Exclusions |

| — | — |

| Hotel pickup and drop-off | Beverages |

| Professional English-speaking guide | Tips for tour guide, driver, local boat rower |

| 1 bottle of mineral water per person | |

| Entrance fees for Hoa Lu citadel, Tam Coc boat trip, and Mua Cave | |

More Great Tours Nearby

Important Information and Recommendations

Guests are recommended to bring a sun hat, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes, as well as cash for any additional expenses.

This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users. Visitors should notify the operator of any dietary restrictions in advance.

The itinerary may be subject to change due to weather and conditions, and guests can choose to skip the boat segment and relax at a local café if desired.

Plus, a dress code prohibits wearing shorts in temples.

Based on 3 reviews, the tour has an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5.

Exploring the Ancient Capital of Hoa Lu

Though dating back to the 10th century, the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital offers visitors a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich history.

Serving as the country’s capital for over 40 years, the site features the remains of temples, palaces, and historical monuments. Highlights include the Dinh and Le Temples, dedicated to two dynasties that once ruled Vietnam.

Guests can explore the grounds, admiring the intricate architecture and learning about the site’s significance. For those interested in Vietnamese history, a visit to Hoa Lu provides a unique opportunity to step back in time and take in the nation’s storied past.

Drifting Through the Scenic Tam Coc River

After exploring the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, visitors embark on a serene boat journey along the Tam Coc River. The 1.5-hour trip through this scenic landscape offers a tranquil escape:

1. Gliding past limestone cliffs and lush rice paddies, the traditional bamboo boats provide a unique perspective of the region’s natural beauty.

2. Visitors can spot local wildlife, including water birds and water buffalo, as they drift peacefully down the river.

3. The boat ride culminates at a series of caves, where the path narrows and the surroundings become more mystical.

Scaling the Mua Cave for Panoramic Views

With the serene boat ride along the Tam Coc River now complete, visitors make their way to the iconic Mua Cave, also known as the "Dancing Cave."

Situated at the base of the Lying Dragon Mountain, this popular attraction offers unparalleled panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

After ascending the 500 stone steps, guests are rewarded with a breathtaking vista overlooking the verdant rice paddies, winding rivers, and striking limestone formations.

This strenuous climb is well worth the effort, providing a unique perspective of Ninh Binh’s remarkable natural beauty.

Visitors are encouraged to bring sturdy footwear and water for the uphill trek.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Guests can cancel their booking and get their money back as long as they do so at least a day before the tour date.

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

Guests can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, but the tour operator provides a buffet lunch featuring local Vietnamese dishes. Beverages, aside from the provided mineral water, are not included and must be purchased separately.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour Activities?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions, and children of all ages are welcome. Guests should notify the operator of any special needs or accessibility requirements in advance to ensure the activities are suitable for their party.

Can I Take Photographs During the Boat Ride in Tam Coc?

Yes, guests are allowed to take photographs during the boat ride in Tam Coc. It’s a great opportunity to capture the stunning limestone karsts and serene river scenery along the way.

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized. Guests can choose to skip the boat segment and relax at a local café instead if desired. The operator is open to modifications to accommodate individual preferences.

The Sum Up

This enriching day trip from Hanoi provides an opportunity to explore Ninh Binh’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can discover the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, enjoy a scenic boat ride on the Tam Coc river, and admire the panoramic views from the top of Mua Cave. With a delicious buffet lunch included, this tour offers a well-rounded experience to take in the natural beauty and history of Vietnam.

You can check availability for your dates here: