Ha Noi: HOA LU-TRANG AN-MUA CAVE, Buffet Lunch & Cycling

Explore the enchanting landscapes of northern Vietnam with the Hoa Lu-Trang An-Mua Cave tour. This immersive experience whisks visitors through the region’s ancient capital, UNESCO-listed sites, and picturesque villages. Travelers can look forward to a delightful buffet lunch, a cycling journey, and awe-inspiring vistas from the top of Mua Cave. Whether you’re a history buff or nature enthusiast, this tour promises to leave you captivated by Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty.

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Key Points

7-hour tour visiting the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, the UNESCO-recognized Trang An site, and the panoramic Mua Cave in Ninh Binh province.
Includes transportation, English-speaking guide, buffet lunch, entrance fees, and cycling activity.
Departure options from Hanoi or Ninh Binh, with pickup from St Joseph’s Cathedral and hotels near Hoan Kiem Lake.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with children aged 1-4 joining for free when sharing a seat.
Tour itinerary may adjust based on weather conditions or guide arrangements, with the order of activities subject to change.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This 7-hour tour takes travelers on an immersive journey through the historic and scenic landscapes of Hoa Lu, Trang An, and Mua Cave in Northern Vietnam.

Priced from €45.36 per person, the tour departs from Hanoi or Ninh Binh, with pickup options including St Joseph’s Cathedral and hotels near Hoan Kiem Lake.

The cancellation policy offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour is conducted in English and Vietnamese, with transportation provided by an air-conditioned limousine bus.

Entrance fees, a buffet lunch, and some amenities like bottled water and weather-dependent accessories are included.

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Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a morning pickup by the guide, followed by a departure for the historic Ninh Binh province.

The tour begins with a morning pickup by the guide, followed by a departure for the historic Ninh Binh province.

After a short break, visitors explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, learning about Vietnam’s rich history.

Next, they cycle around local villages to enjoy the scenic countryside.

In the afternoon, a buffet lunch at Ninh Binh Excursion Restaurant provides a taste of local and vegetarian cuisine.

The tour then visits the UNESCO-recognized Trang An, where a 2-hour boat trip navigates the unique tunnel cave system.

Finally, guests climb the 500 steps of Mua Cave to take in panoramic views.

Key Attractions

Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam, holds historical significance from the Dinh, Le, and Ly Dynasties. Visitors can explore the remnants of this once-thriving city.

Next, the UNESCO-recognized Trang An is a highlight, with its unique tunnel cave system. Travelers embark on a 2-hour boat trip to discover the serene landscape and geological wonders.

Mua Cave, also known as Dragon Peak, offers panoramic views of the Tam Coc region. Adventurous travelers can climb the 500 steps to the top, taking in the breathtaking vistas.

Plus, the tour includes visits to the Bai Dinh Pagoda, home to Vietnam’s largest Buddha statue, and the historic Bich Dong Pagoda.

Inclusions

The tour package includes a variety of amenities to enhance the overall experience.

Travelers will be transported in a comfortable, air-conditioned limousine bus with 17 seats. Throughout the trip, an English-speaking guide will provide informative commentary.

Travelers will be transported in a comfortable, air-conditioned limousine bus with 17 seats, and an English-speaking guide will provide informative commentary throughout the trip.

A buffet lunch featuring local cuisine and vegetarian options is included. Entrance fees to all attractions, along with a boat trip and cycling activity, are covered.

Complimentary bottled water and weather-appropriate items, such as conical hats or raincoats, are provided. With these inclusive features, participants can fully enjoy the cultural and natural wonders of the Ninh Binh region.

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Important Notes

While the itinerary is carefully planned, it may need to adjust based on weather conditions or guide arrangements. This tour offers flexibility to ensure the best possible experience for guests.

Here are a few important considerations:

The order of activities may change at the guide’s discretion to accommodate the group’s needs and weather patterns.
Children aged 1-4 years can join the tour for free when sharing a seat with parents, and a $15 surcharge applies for a private seat.
Exclusions include drinks, travel insurance, tips for the guide, and personal expenses.

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Pickup and Transportation

Guests are picked up from either Ninh Binh or select hotels near Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi.

The transport is a 17-seat limousine bus with air conditioning. Throughout the tour, an English-speaking guide accompanies the group. The bus ensures comfortable, A/C transportation to the day’s destinations.

At the end of the tour, guests are dropped off at the same pickup locations. The transportation is well-organized and efficient, allowing visitors to focus on the cultural sights and experiences without worrying about logistics.

Dining Experience

After the comfortable bus ride, guests can look forward to a delightful dining experience at the Ninh Binh Excursion Restaurant.

The buffet lunch offers a variety of local and vegetarian options, catering to diverse tastes. Highlights include:

Authentic Vietnamese dishes like pho, spring rolls, and grilled meats
Freshly prepared salads and vegetable sides
Desserts featuring tropical fruits and traditional sweets

The serene setting and attentive service create a welcoming atmosphere, ensuring guests can refuel and recharge before continuing their journey through the stunning landscapes of Trang An and Mua Cave.

Exploring the Ancient Capital

As the tour departs the lunch stop, guests are transported back in time to the ancient capital of Hoa Lu. This former political center flourished under the Dinh, Le, and Ly dynasties from 968 to 1010 AD. Visitors can explore the remnants of the ancient citadel, temples, and pagodas, gaining insights into Vietnam’s rich history. The tour also includes a cycling excursion through local villages, allowing guests to witness daily life and rural landscapes. The experience culminates in climbing the 500 steps of Mua Cave, offering panoramic vistas of the breathtaking Tam Coc region.

| Ancient Capital | Historical Period | Legacy |

| — | — | — |

| Hoa Lu | 968-1010 AD | Dinh, Le, and Ly Dynasties |

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the COVID-19 Safety Protocols in Place for This Tour?

The tour operator follows COVID-19 safety protocols, which may include mandatory mask-wearing, temperature checks, and sanitizing measures. Travelers are expected to comply with any safety guidelines in place at the time of the tour.

Is There an Option to Customize the Itinerary to Fit Personal Interests?

The tour offers some flexibility to customize the itinerary based on guests’ interests. Travelers can discuss options with the guide, who can adapt the schedule to accommodate personal preferences within the overall tour duration and locations.

Can We Make Stops Along the Way to Explore Local Shops or Markets?

Yes, the tour can accommodate stops at local shops or markets along the way, depending on the group’s interests. The guide is flexible in adjusting the itinerary to provide a more personalized experience.

Do the Guides Provide Any Historical or Cultural Insights During the Tour?

The guides provide historical and cultural insights throughout the tour, sharing information about Vietnam’s dynasties, UNESCO-recognized sites, and local traditions. They offer a deeper understanding of the destinations visited.

Is There a Discount Available for Booking the Tour as a Group?

Yes, there’s a group discount available. Groups of 4 or more receive a 10% discount per person on the tour price, which starts from €45.36 per person for individual bookings.

The Sum Up

This immersive tour provides a comprehensive exploration of Hanoi’s captivating landscapes and rich history. From the ancient capital of Hoa Lu to the serene Trang An waterways and the panoramic views from Mua Cave, this experience showcases Vietnam’s remarkable natural and cultural heritage. Complemented by a delectable buffet lunch and a scenic cycling journey, this tour offers a well-rounded journey that delights and informs.