2-Day Ha Noi – Ninh Binh – Ha Long Bay Highlights Tour

Discover the cultural and natural wonders of Vietnam on this 2-day tour from Hanoi. Explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, cruise along the scenic Tam Coc River, and marvel at the karst landscapes of Ha Long Bay. With an English-speaking guide, this seamless adventure offers an immersive experience that showcases the country’s highlights. From picturesque villages to magnificent caves, the itinerary promises a memorable journey for any traveler. Ready to uncover the beauty of Northern Vietnam?

Key Points

• A 2-day tour exploring the highlights of Hanoi, Ninh Binh, and Ha Long Bay, with activities like bamboo boat rides, cycling, and cave exploration.
• The tour includes round-trip transportation, an English-speaking guide, and a buffet lunch featuring local Vietnamese cuisine.
• On Day 1, visitors explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, enjoy a bamboo boat ride through Tam Coc, and hike up Mua Cave.
• On Day 2, the tour visits Sung Sot Cave, Luon Cave, and Titop Island in Ha Long Bay, with a sunset party on the cruise ship.
• The tour is priced from $162.66 per person and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

2-Day Tour Overview

The 2-day Ha Noi – Ninh Binh – Ha Long Bay Highlights Tour offers travelers a comprehensive exploration of some of Vietnam’s most iconic destinations.

Priced from $162.66 per person, the tour includes round-trip transportation, an English-speaking guide, and a variety of activities like a bamboo boat ride, cycling, and cave exploration.

Guests can expect a seamless experience with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and convenient pickup from their Hanoi hotel.

With a focus on immersing visitors in Vietnam’s rich history and natural beauty, this tour promises an unforgettable journey across the country’s highlights.

Hanoi to Ninh Binh: Day 1

The tour kicks off early on day one with pickup from hotel locations in Hanoi’s Old Quarter or Opera House area between 7:30-8:00 AM.

After a short break at 9:30 AM, the group visits the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, learning about its history and architecture.

Lunch follows, a buffet of local Vietnamese cuisine with vegetarian options.

The afternoon features a 1.5-hour bamboo boat ride through the Tam Coc region, often called "Halong Bay on land".

Then, a 45-minute cycling tour around nearby villages and a hike up Mua Cave’s 500 steps for panoramic views.

Finally, the group transfers back to Hanoi, arriving around 7 PM.

Exploring Ninh Binh

After touring the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, visitors embark on a serene 1.5-hour bamboo boat ride through the captivating Tam Coc region. Often referred to as "Halong Bay on land," the region boasts towering limestone karsts, lush greenery, and peaceful waterways. Following the boat tour, travelers hop on bicycles for a 45-minute ride through local villages, seeing the tranquil countryside. The adventurous can then conquer the 500-step hike up Mua Cave, rewarded with panoramic vistas of the stunning Tam Coc landscape.

| Activity | Duration | Description |

| — | — | — |

| Tam Coc Boat Ride | 1.5 hours | Peaceful cruise through limestone karsts |

| Cycling Tour | 45 minutes | Scenic ride through local villages |

| Mua Cave Hike | 500 steps | Climb for breathtaking panoramic views |

Lunch and Local Cuisine

After a morning of seeing Ninh Binh’s rich history and natural wonders, travelers on the tour enjoy a delectable buffet lunch featuring a variety of local Vietnamese dishes.

The spread includes savory pho, fragrant spring rolls, sizzling grilled meats, and colorful vegetable dishes. Vegetarian options are available to cater to all dietary needs.

The meal provides a satisfying break and a chance to sample the authentic flavors of the region. With its welcoming ambiance and hearty fare, the lunch sets the stage for the afternoon’s activities in Tam Coc and Mua Cave.

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Discovering Tam Coc and Mua Cave

Departing the lunch stop, the tour group heads to the picturesque region of Tam Coc, often dubbed the "Halong Bay on land."

Climbing aboard traditional bamboo boats, they glide peacefully down the Ngo Dong River, surrounded by striking limestone karsts and lush, verdant rice paddies.

Gliding peacefully down the Ngo Dong River, surrounded by limestone karsts and verdant rice paddies.

After the serene boat ride, the group sets out on a 45-minute cycling tour through the charming local villages.

The highlight of the day is the hike up Mua Cave, where 500 steps lead to panoramic views of the Tam Coc landscape.

The tour then returns to Hanoi, completing the first day’s activities.

Departing for Ha Long Bay

The second day of the tour begins with a transfer from Hanoi to the renowned Ha Long Bay.

Guests depart their Hanoi hotel around 8:10-8:50 AM and make the 3.5-hour journey to the iconic bay. Upon arrival at Tuan Chau Island around 11:45 AM, they board the cruise ship and enjoy a buffet lunch.

The afternoon is spent exploring the natural wonders of Ha Long Bay, including the massive Sung Sot Cave and Luon Cave, accessible by kayak or bamboo boat.

The day ends with a sunset party on the boat before returning to Hanoi in the evening.

Cruising Through Ha Long Bay: Day 2

Guests board the cruise ship and enjoy a hearty buffet lunch as they prepare to explore the captivating wonders of Ha Long Bay.

They venture into the iconic Sung Sot Cave, the largest in the region, marveling at its impressive stalactites and stalagmites.

Next, they kayak or travel by bamboo boat to the serene Luon Cave, surrounded by lush greenery.

The group then stops at Titop Island, where they can swim, hike to the summit, and take in the stunning panoramic views.

As the sun sets, your gather on the deck for a lively sunset party with refreshments.

Ha Long Bay Highlights and Return to Hanoi

After enjoying the sunset party, the group returns to Ha Long Harbour, where they disembark and transfer back to Hanoi.

On the way, they stop at Sung Sot Cave, the largest cave in Ha Long Bay, and marvel at its impressive formations.

Stopping at Sung Sot Cave, the largest in Ha Long Bay, to marvel at its impressive geological formations.

Next, they visit Luon Cave, exploring it by kayak or bamboo boat.

At Titop Island, they’ve the opportunity to swim and trek.

The tour then concludes with a safe arrival in Hanoi around 8:30-8:45 PM, where guests are dropped off at their hotels.

The 2-day Ha Noi – Ninh Binh – Ha Long Bay Highlights Tour provides an unforgettable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No, outside food and drinks are not allowed on the tour. The tour includes all meals and refreshments, so you don’t need to bring your own. Bottled water is prohibited, but you can bring a reusable water bottle.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour has a casual dress code. Comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended for activities like hiking, cycling, and boat rides. Pack light and bring layers as the weather can vary throughout the day.

What Is the Policy for Tipping the Tour Guide?

The tour does not have a mandatory tipping policy. However, it’s customary to tip the guide if you’re satisfied with their service. The amount is at the traveler’s discretion, typically ranging from $5 to $10 per person.

Can I Extend My Stay in Ha Long Bay?

Unfortunately, the tour package does not allow for extending your stay in Ha Long Bay. The itinerary is fixed, and the transportation back to Hanoi is scheduled for the end of the tour on Day 2. You’d need to book additional accommodations separately if you wish to stay longer.

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour’s itinerary is pre-set, but travelers can customize their experience. While the main activities are included, travelers can request additional time in Ha Long Bay or make other modifications before booking the tour.

The Sum Up

This 2-day tour offers an immersive experience, combining cultural and natural wonders of Vietnam. Visitors can explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, enjoy a scenic boat ride and cycling in Ninh Binh, and cruise through the magnificent Ha Long Bay. Led by an English-speaking guide, this seamless adventure provides a comprehensive introduction to the highlights of Northern Vietnam.

You can check availability for your dates here: