From Hanoi: 1-Day Tour Ninh Binh: Hoa Lu, Trang An, Hang Mua

Nestled in the heart of northern Vietnam, Ninh Binh beckons travellers with its captivating blend of history, natural wonder, and cultural charm. This one-day tour from Hanoi promises an unforgettable adventure, unveiling the ancient Hoa Lu Capital, the serene Trang An Landscape Complex, and the breathtaking Mua Caves. Whether you’re seeking a glimpse into Vietnam’s storied past or a chance to learn about its stunning landscapes, this tour offers an experience that’s both enriching and awe-inspiring.

Key Points

• A 1-day tour from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, covering the highlights of Hoa Lu, Trang An, and Mua Caves, priced from $49 per person.
• The tour includes round-trip limousine transfer, buffet lunch, bicycle riding, entrance fees, and an English-speaking guide.
• Visitors can explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, take a boat cruise at Trang An, and hike up to the summit of Mua Caves.
• The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or individuals over 150 kg, and the Mua Caves hike involves 500 steps.
• Advance booking is required, and cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours prior for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The 1-Day Tour from Hanoi to Ninh Binh covers three main attractions: Hoa Lu, Trang An, and Mua Caves.

Priced from $49 per person, the tour lasts one day and includes round-trip limousine transfer, a buffet lunch, bicycle activity, entrance fees, and an English-speaking guide.

Guests must book in advance, but can cancel up to 24 hours prior for a full refund.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those over 150 kg. Hikers should note the 500 steps to the Mua Cave summit.

Parents are responsible for their infants’ care during the tour.

Itinerary and Activities

After pickup from the hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter or Opera House at 7:00 am, guests embark on a 2.5-hour limousine transfer to Ninh Binh.

Upon arrival, the tour first visits Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, where guests enjoy a guided tour, sightseeing, and cycling around the village for an hour.

A guided tour, sightseeing, and cycling around the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital village for an hour.

After, guests indulge in a 1-hour buffet lunch featuring local dishes.

Next, they cruise the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex by bamboo boat, exploring the valleys, rivers, and caves for 2 hours.

For the final activity, guests hike to the peak of Mua Caves, taking in panoramic views of the Tam Coc rice fields.

Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

Guests first visit Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, the former capital of Vietnam during the Dinh and Early Le dynasties.

They’ll enjoy a guided tour, sightseeing, and cycling around the village, all within an hour.

This historical site offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s past, with ancient temples, palaces, and fortifications.

Visitors can explore the ruins and learn about the region’s rich cultural heritage.

The cycling activity provides a fun and active way to experience the local community and scenery.

This stop sets the stage for the day’s adventures in the Ninh Binh region.

Buffet Lunch

Following the tour of Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, guests enjoy a buffet lunch featuring local specialties.

The spread includes:

• Various rice dishes, including steamed rice and fragrant fried rice

• Savory Vietnamese staples such as grilled pork, stir-fried vegetables, and fresh spring rolls

• Flavorful soup options like pho and spicy seafood broth

• A selection of vibrant tropical fruits for dessert

• Refreshing beverages to hydrate during the meal

The buffet offers a taste of Ninh Binh’s culinary heritage, allowing guests to fuel up for the next leg of the tour.

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Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex

The Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, takes visitors on a serene boat cruise through its picturesque valleys, rivers, and mysterious caves.

Aboard a traditional bamboo boat, travelers glide along the tranquil waterways, admiring the stunning limestone karsts and lush greenery that surround them.

The cruise offers a chance to explore hidden grottoes and appreciate the natural beauty of this remarkable landscape.

It’s a peaceful and immersive experience that allows guests to fully connect with the serene environment and gain a deeper understanding of Ninh Binh’s breathtaking scenery.

Mua Caves

Towering over the serene Tam Coc rice fields, the Mua Caves beckon visitors to embark on a challenging hike up 500 steps to the summit.

Once at the top, guests are rewarded with panoramic vistas of the breathtaking landscape, including:

• Lush, verdant valleys

• Winding rivers and streams

• Dramatic limestone formations

• Terraced rice paddies

• Peaceful villages nestled in the hills

The steep climb may not be suitable for all, but those who make it to the peak are left in awe of the stunning views, making the effort well worth it.

Return to Hanoi

After visiting the Mua Caves, the limousine bus transports the tour group back to Hanoi, arriving around 7:00 PM in the Old Quarter.

The return journey takes approximately 2.5 hours. Along the way, travelers can relax and enjoy the scenery.

The return journey takes approximately 2.5 hours, allowing travelers to relax and enjoy the scenic surroundings along the way.

Once back in Hanoi, the guide will assist everyone in disembarking. Participants are free to make their own plans for the evening or request drop-off at their hotel.

The tour concludes with a safe return to the city center, allowing travelers to further explore Hanoi or retire for the day after an eventful excursion to Ninh Binh.

Highlights and Inclusions

Discover Ninh Binh, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on this immersive 1-day tour from Hanoi.

Highlights include:

• Bamboo boat ride through valleys, rivers, and caves in the scenic Trang An Landscape Complex

• Hiking to the peak of Mua Cave for panoramic views of the Tam Coc rice fields

• Exploring the ancient capital of Hoa Lu with a guided tour and cycling around the village

• Savoring a buffet lunch featuring local specialties

• Sightseeing and activities led by an English-speaking guide

The tour includes roundtrip transportation, entrance fees, and a water bottle, making it a convenient and comprehensive way to experience Ninh Binh’s natural and cultural wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Extend the Tour to 2 Days?

Yes, you can extend the tour to 2 days. This would allow you to explore the sights at a more relaxed pace and potentially include additional activities or destinations in the Ninh Binh region.

Is There a Discount for Group Bookings?

Yes, there are group discounts available. The tour operator offers a 5% discount for groups of 4 or more people. The more people in the group, the higher the potential savings.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to My Preferences?

While the standard itinerary is fixed, customers can discuss customization options with the tour operator. They may be able to adjust the schedule or activities to better suit individual preferences, though certain modifications may incur additional fees.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Lunch?

The tour includes a buffet lunch with local dishes, but there’s no mention of specific dietary accommodations. Travelers with dietary restrictions should inform the tour operator in advance to see if their needs can be met.

How Can I Get Travel Insurance for the Tour?

Unfortunately, the tour operator does not provide travel insurance. However, travelers can purchase their own travel insurance policy to cover any unforeseen events or emergencies during the tour. It’s recommended to check with your travel insurance provider for coverage details.

The Sum Up

This 1-day tour from Hanoi offers a perfect blend of culture and nature in Ninh Binh. Explore the historic Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, cruise through the scenic Trang An landscape, and conquer the challenging hike to the Mua Caves’ summit. With comfortable transportation, guided tours, and delicious Vietnamese cuisine, it’s an adventure that showcases the stunning beauty of this region.

You can check availability for your dates here: