Ninh Binh Day Trip: Hoa Lu – Trang An – Mua Cave

The Ninh Binh Day Trip offers an immersive exploration of Vietnam’s rich history and stunning natural beauty. Visitors can discover the well-preserved temples of the ancient capital Hoa Lu, before embarking on a serene boat ride through the UNESCO-listed Trang An. The journey culminates with a hike to the breathtaking Mua Cave, showcasing panoramic vistas that encapsulate the region’s captivating allure. This comprehensive day trip promises an unforgettable experience for those eager to delve deeper into Vietnam’s captivating landscapes and cultural heritage.

Key Points

• The Ninh Binh Day Trip explores the historic capital of Hoa Lu, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Trang An, and the scenic Mua Cave and Lying Dragon Mountain.
• The full-day tour is priced at $48.71 per person and includes transportation, an English-speaking guide, admission fees, a buffet lunch, and various activities.
• The tour offers a comfortable 17-seat limousine bus, a knowledgeable guide, and inclusions such as water, cycling, and weather gear to enhance the overall experience.
• The itinerary highlights include morning pickup, a visit to Hoa Lu, a buffet lunch, a boat ride in Trang An, and a hike to Mua Cave for panoramic views.
• The tour has a flexible cancelation policy, allowing free changes up to 24 hours in advance, and excludes drinks, taxes, and tips for the guide.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview

The Ninh Binh Day Trip offers visitors a chance to explore the historic and scenic wonders of Ninh Binh province, located just a short drive from Hanoi.

Discover the historic and scenic wonders of Ninh Binh province, just a short drive from Hanoi.

Priced from $48.71 per person, the full-day tour includes transportation, an English-speaking guide, admission fees, a buffet lunch, and various activities.

Highlights include visiting the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, taking a boat ride through the UNESCO-recognized Trang An Landscape Complex, and hiking to the top of Lying Dragon Mountain for panoramic views.

With a cancelation policy allowing free changes up to 24 hours in advance, this day trip provides a convenient and flexible way to discover Ninh Binh’s treasures.

Itinerary Highlights

Morning begins the Ninh Binh Day Trip with pickup by the guide at 7:30-8:00 am to transport visitors to Ninh Binh province.

A short break follows before exploring the ancient capital of Hoa Lu.

Lunch features a buffet of local dishes, including goat meat, fish, chicken, and vegetarian options.

In the afternoon, visitors can cycle through the countryside or rest before a 2-hour boat trip at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Trang An.

The trip culminates with a hike up Lying Dragon Mountain to the Mua Cave for panoramic views before returning to Hanoi by 7:30 pm.

Transportation and Guide

Transportation for the Ninh Binh Day Trip is provided via a 17-seat limousine bus.

The tour is led by an English-speaking guide who accompanies the group throughout the day. The guide provides detailed information and insights about the historical and cultural significance of the sites visited, ensuring a rich and engaging experience for the travellers.

An expert guide accompanies the group, providing detailed insights that enrich the experience of visiting historical and cultural sites.

From pickup at the hotel to the final drop-off, the guide is available to answer any questions and ensure the smooth running of the tour.

The comfortable transportation and knowledgeable guide contribute to making this day trip a memorable and informative adventure.

Inclusions

Included in the Ninh Binh Day Trip are a complimentary bottle of water per person, all entrance fees, a cycling activity, and a buffet lunch featuring local specialties like goat meat, fish, chicken, and vegetarian options at the Ninh Binh Excursion Restaurant. Travelers will also have the opportunity to use conical hats and raincoats, provided free of charge, depending on the weather conditions. These inclusions ensure a hassle-free and immersive experience, allowing visitors to focus on exploring the stunning landscapes and historical sites without worrying about additional costs.

| Inclusions | Details |

| — | — |

| Complimentary Bottle of Water | 1 per person |

| Entrance Fees | All covered |

| Cycling Activity | Included |

| Buffet Lunch | Local specialties |

| Weather Gear | Conical hats, raincoats |

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Exclusions

Two key exclusions for the Ninh Binh Day Trip are drinks, taxes, and tips for the tour guide.

This means you will need to pay for their own beverages and any applicable taxes during the tour.

Plus, it’s customary to tip the knowledgeable and friendly guide who leads the group throughout the day’s activities.

These exclude items aren’t included in the tour price, allowing travelers to have more control over their spending.

The guide will be happy to provide recommendations on appropriate tip amounts at the end of the day.

1. Drinks

2. Taxes

3. Tips for tour guide

Exploring Hoa Lu, the Ancient Capital

The morning portion of the Ninh Binh Day Trip begins with a visit to Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam from 968 to 1010 AD.

Nestled among the stunning limestone karsts, the ancient citadel offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich history.

Travelers will explore the well-preserved temples and pavilions, learning about the former seat of power and the influential Dinh and Le dynasties that ruled from this strategic location.

The visit provides a fascinating contrast between the region’s natural beauty and its storied past, setting the stage for the day’s adventures in Ninh Binh.

Discovering the Beauty of Trang An

After exploring the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, the day trip continues to the stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site of Trang An.

This scenic landscape features:

1. A 2-hour boat ride through the tranquil river, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and verdant vegetation.

2. Serene grottoes and caves, providing a glimpse into the region’s rich history and geological wonders.

3. Opportunities to witness the local way of life, as the boat glides past traditional Vietnamese villages and rice paddies.

The Trang An experience offers a peaceful respite and a chance to immerse in the natural beauty of Ninh Binh.

Conquering the Mua Cave and Lying Dragon Mountain

Leaving the serene landscapes of Trang An behind, the day trip now ventures to the captivating Mua Cave, also known as the "Dancing Cave."

Nestled amidst the dramatic karst formations, this cave beckons visitors to explore its mysterious depths. After a brief hike, adventurers are rewarded with a panoramic vista from atop the Lying Dragon Mountain.

From this vantage point, the verdant rice paddies and winding rivers of Tam Coc unfold in a mesmerizing display.

With its unique blend of natural wonders and cultural significance, the Mua Cave and Lying Dragon Mountain offer a thrilling finale to this Ninh Binh day trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour does not specify a maximum group size. However, it notes the transportation is a 17-seat limousine bus, indicating a smaller group size. The exact group size may vary based on demand and availability.

Are There Any Discounts for Children or Seniors?

The tour does not mention any discounts for children or seniors. Pricing is listed as a flat rate per person, with no indication of reduced pricing for specific age groups.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?

Yes, the tour allows for some customization to suit your preferences. You can adjust the duration, activities, and pace of the itinerary by communicating with the tour provider in advance.

Do I Need to Bring Any Specific Equipment or Gear?

For this trip, guests don’t need to bring specialized equipment. However, wearing comfortable walking shoes, bringing sun protection, and packing a lightweight rain jacket are recommended to fully enjoy the outdoor activities.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour or Add Additional Activities?

Yes, there are options to extend the tour or add additional activities. Travelers can request extra time at specific sites, an extra boat ride, or a visit to other nearby attractions for an additional charge.

The Sum Up

The Ninh Binh Day Trip offers a captivating journey through Vietnam’s rich history and stunning natural landscapes. From the ancient capital of Hoa Lu to the serene Trang An waterways, and the breathtaking views atop Mua Cave, this excursion provides a comprehensive experience that showcases the region’s cultural and natural wonders. It’s an unforgettable opportunity to take in the beauty and heritage of Ninh Binh.

You can check availability for your dates here: