Friendly Travel: Ninh Binh/ Hoa Lu & Tam Coc/ Full Service

Friendly Travel offers a comprehensive tour of Ninh Binh, showcasing the historical sites of Hoa Lu and the breathtaking landscapes of Tam Coc. Priced at just $32.47 per person, this one-day adventure promises an unforgettable experience. Travelers can expect knowledgeable guides, free cancellation, and a perfect 5/5 rating. With a scenic drive, local lunch, and a bamboo boat ride through lush paddy fields, this tour provides a unique opportunity to take in the natural wonders and cultural heritage of the region.

Good To Know

• Ninh Binh tour offered at $32.47 per person with free cancellation and reserve now, pay later option.
• Tour covers Hoa Lu ancient capital, regional cuisine lunch, and scenic bamboo boat ride through Tam Coc.
• Guided tour with English and Vietnamese-speaking staff, praised for knowledgeable guide and beautiful scenery.
• Optional 1-hour bicycle tour through surrounding villages for an active experience.
• Tour suitable for most travelers, with recommendations for comfortable attire and staying hydrated.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

According to the travel guide, the Ninh Binh tour offered by Friendly Travel is priced from $32.47 per person and lasts for 1 day.

The tour includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option. Pickup from Hoàn Kiếm is included.

The itinerary highlights a scenic drive, visits to Hoa Lu and Tam Coc, a local lunch, and an optional bicycle tour.

With an overall 5/5 rating from 8 reviews, the tour is praised for its knowledgeable guide, beautiful scenery, and great value.

Itinerary Highlights

The Ninh Binh tour by Friendly Travel offers an engaging itinerary that showcases the region’s historical and natural wonders.

After pickup, the scenic 2.5-hour drive leads to Hoa Lu, the ancient capital where travelers can explore and learn about the Dinh, Le, and Ly Dynasties.

Following a 1.5-hour lunch featuring regional specialties, the tour embarks on a 2.5-hour bamboo boat ride through Tam Coc’s picturesque paddy fields and limestone mountains.

An optional 1-hour bicycle tour through the surrounding village completes the experience before the 2.5-hour return journey to Hanoi.

Experience and Activities

Visitors can discover Vietnam’s feudal history at the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, where they’ll learn about the Dinh, Le, and Ly Dynasties that once ruled the region.

After a delicious lunch featuring regional specialties like goat meat and burnt rice, travelers can float along the scenic paddy fields and limestone mountains of Tam Coc by bamboo boat.

For a more active experience, an optional bicycle tour through the surrounding villages allows guests to enjoy the tranquil rural scenery.

Throughout the day, a knowledgeable local guide provides historical context and insights in both English and Vietnamese.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

Tourists consistently praise the Ninh Binh tour, with an overall rating of 5/5 based on 8 reviews.

Reviewers highlighted the friendly driver, knowledgeable guide, and beautiful scenery.

One guest from Vietnam scored it a perfect 10/10, while a traveler from the Netherlands called it a "perfect day trip" and highly recommended it.

An insightful review from a Mexican visitor noted the excellent guide, who was attentive to the group’s needs and had great English skills.

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Important Information and Recommendations

While the tour is suitable for most travelers, it may not be ideal for those with back problems or wheelchair users.

Visitors should wear comfortable shoes, bring a hat, camera, sunscreen, and a water bottle. Light, breathable clothing is recommended, especially for the bicycle ride through rural scenery.

Moderate physical activity is expected during the bike tour, so guests should ensure they’re prepared. Staying hydrated by bringing a water bottle is advised.

Pickup and Transportation

The tour includes pickup from Hoàn Kiếm in Hanoi, which is the starting point for the day trip to Ninh Binh.

Travelers are conveniently picked up from their hotel or a central meeting location in the Old Quarter.

Travelers are conveniently picked up from their hotel or a central meeting location in the Old Quarter.

The scenic drive to Ninh Binh takes approximately 2.5 hours each way. During the journey, the guide will share insights about the region’s history and culture.

Travelers can sit back, relax, and enjoy the picturesque countryside views along the way. Comfortable transportation is provided throughout the day, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Culinary Delights

After exploring the historic sites, guests can look forward to savoring the local culinary specialties.

The lunch at a regional restaurant features dishes showcasing Ninh Binh’s unique flavors. Guests can try the succulent goat meat, a local delicacy, as well as the famous "cơm cháy" or burnt rice, which has a delightfully smoky taste.

The meal provides a chance to sample the diverse agricultural bounty of the region, from the fresh vegetables to the fragrant herbs.

With attentive service and an inviting ambiance, the dining experience completes the immersion in Ninh Binh’s rich cultural heritage.

Exploring Tam Coc’s Natural Wonders

Departing the historic Hoa Lu, guests embark on a serene boat ride through the captivating landscapes of Tam Coc. Gliding along the Ngo Dong River, they marvel at the towering limestone karsts that rise from the lush paddy fields.

| Highlights | Description |

| — | — |

| Scenic Boat Ride | Explore the tranquil river, surrounded by verdant mountains and caves. |

| Limestone Formations | Admire the unique geological formations, carved by nature over millennia. |

| Lush Paddy Fields | Witness the vibrant patchwork of rice paddies that stretch across the countryside. |

This picturesque region offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s rural charm, providing a serene respite from the bustling cities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Group Discounts Available for This Tour?

There are no specific group discounts mentioned for this tour. However, the tour price is per person, so the more people in a group, the lower the total cost per person.

Can We Extend the Duration of the Tam Coc Boat Ride?

Yes, you can extend the duration of the Tam Coc boat ride. For an additional fee, the tour allows you to spend more time exploring the scenic landscapes and limestone mountains by boat.

Do We Need to Bring Our Own Food and Water for the Trip?

The tour includes lunch at a local restaurant, so there’s no need to bring your own food. However, it’s recommended to bring a water bottle to stay hydrated during the activities, especially the optional bicycle ride.

Is It Possible to Customize the Itinerary to Suit Our Preferences?

The tour itinerary can be customized to suit your preferences. While food and water are provided, you can bring your own if desired. The tour guide is happy to accommodate special requests within reason.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The maximum group size for this tour is not explicitly stated. However, it’s a shared group tour, so the size can vary. Typically, these types of tours accommodate small to medium-sized groups to ensure an enjoyable and personalized experience.

The Sum Up

Friendly Travel’s Ninh Binh tour offers an exceptional value for travelers seeking to explore Vietnam’s rich history and stunning landscapes. With a full-service itinerary, knowledgeable guides, and rave reviews, this one-day adventure provides an unforgettable experience at an affordable price. Whether you’re interested in ancient capital sites or serene natural beauty, this tour is a must-do for any visit to the Ninh Binh region.

You can check availability for your dates here: