Exploring Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty is an opportunity not to be missed. This one-day adventure from Hanoi promises an unforgettable experience, taking you through the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, a serene boat ride at Tam Coc, and a hike up Mua Cave for breathtaking views. With convenient hotel pickup, knowledgeable guides, and delightful meals, it’s a well-rounded adventure you won’t want to overlook. What makes this tour stand out and why should you consider it?
Good To Know

- This 1-day tour from Hanoi includes visits to Hoa Lu, Tam Coc, and Mua Cave, showcasing northern Vietnam’s historical sites and natural landscapes.
- The tour offers a 2-hour boat journey through the scenic limestone karsts of Tam Coc and a 2-hour hike up Mua Cave for panoramic views.
- Priced at $33 per person, the tour includes transportation, an English-speaking guide, meals, and all entrance fees.
- Pickup is available from Hanoi’s Old Quarter and Ninh Binh, with a 2-hour bus/coach ride to the sites.
- The tour has received positive reviews for the guide quality and transportation, with a convenient free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
Tour Overview

The tour is named "Hoa Lu, Tam Coc, and Mua Cave Adventure Day Tour" and is priced from $33.00 per person.
It lasts 1 day and includes pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can reserve now and pay later.
The tour visits Hoa Lu, Tam Coc, and Mua Cave.
Highlights include a boat ride, Vietnamese lunch, and panoramic views.
Inclusions cover transportation, guide, meals, and entrance fees.
Tour-goers should bring comfortable clothing, a camera, and sun protection.
Reviews praise the guide quality and transportation.
Looking for more options in Hanoi? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Itinerary

Pickup locations for the tour have two options – Hoàn Kiếm and Ninh Bình.
From there, the group travels by bus/coach for 2 hours to Ninh Binh Province. After a 20-minute break, the tour visits Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam, for 1.5 hours.
The group travels by bus/coach for 2 hours to Ninh Binh Province, then visits Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam, for 1.5 hours.
This is followed by:
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1-hour lunch
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2.5-hour guided boat journey in Tam Coc
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2-hour sightseeing, walking, and hiking at Mua Cave
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2-hour bus/coach return to drop-off locations in Hoàn Kiếm and Ninh Bình
Highlights

Travelers on this adventure day tour can discover the historical significance of Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam.
They’ll experience a serene boat journey through the limestone karsts of Tam Coc. An authentic Vietnamese lunch provides a delightful respite.
The highlight is the hike up Mua Cave, offering panoramic views of the Ngo Dong River.
This diverse itinerary showcases northern Vietnam’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Whether exploring ancient ruins, gliding along waterways, or scaling scenic peaks, this tour delivers an unforgettable day of adventure and discovery.
Inclusions
This tour includes hotel pickup from the Old Quarter of Hanoi and round-trip bus transportation.
The package also covers:
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An English-speaking tour guide to lead the way
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Meals and a bottle of water per person
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Entrance fees to all attractions
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Tips for the guide and driver
Travelers can look forward to an immersive cultural experience without additional out-of-pocket expenses.
The inclusions ensure a seamless and enjoyable day exploring Hoa Lu, Tam Coc, and Mua Cave.
The inclusions ensure a seamless and enjoyable day exploring Hoa Lu, Tam Coc, and Mua Cave.
With everything taken care of, guests can focus on making the most of this adventurous day trip from Hanoi.
More Great Tours NearbyImportant Information
Certain items aren’t permitted on this tour, such as pets, alcohol, and drugs.
Visitors should dress comfortably and bring along an umbrella, camera, sun hat, sunscreen, and comfortable footwear. The tour involves some hiking, so proper attire and footwear are essential.
The tour has received positive reviews, with highlights including the knowledgeable guide and the transportation provided. Customers rate the guide quality at 5/5 and the transportation at 4.3/5.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this adventure day tour offers a convenient and enjoyable experience for visitors to Hanoi.
Pickup Locations
There are two pickup locations available for this tour – Hoàn Kiếm and Ninh Bình. Guests can choose their preferred pickup spot:
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Hoàn Kiếm is the main pickup point located in the Old Quarter of Hanoi.
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Ninh Bình is an alternate pickup location for those already in the Ninh Bình province.
The bus/coach will depart from the selected pickup location and travel for around 2 hours to reach the first stop at Hoa Lu.
Pickup times are coordinated to accommodate both locations and ensure a punctual start to the day’s activities.
Guests should be ready at their chosen pickup spot a few minutes before the scheduled departure time.
Travel and Break Time
After guests have been picked up from their chosen location, the bus/coach departs for the 2-hour journey to Ninh Bình province.
Along the way, there’s a 20-minute break for passengers to refresh themselves. The scenic drive allows travelers to admire the countryside landscapes of northern Vietnam.
Upon arrival in Ninh Bình, the group is ready to explore the first stop on the itinerary – the historical site of Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam.
Hoa Lu Visit, Lunch, and Tam Coc Tour
After arriving at Hoa Lu, the group spends 1.5 hours exploring the historical site that was once the ancient capital of Vietnam.
Highlights include:
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Touring the remains of the Dinh and Le dynasty palaces and temples
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Learning about the significant events and figures from Vietnam’s medieval period
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Admiring the beautiful landscapes and architecture blending with the natural surroundings
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Witnessing the blend of historical and cultural elements at this UNESCO-recognized heritage site
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Gaining a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s rich history and its lasting impacts.
Following the Hoa Lu visit, the group enjoys an authentic Vietnamese lunch.
Afterward, they embark on a 2.5-hour guided boat tour of the scenic Tam Coc area.
Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Possible to Visit Mua Cave Without Hiking?
Yes, it’s possible to visit Mua Cave without hiking. The tour includes a sightseeing option where visitors can explore the cave’s exterior and take in the panoramic views without the need for strenuous hiking.
Can We Customize the Tour to Include Additional Activities?
Yes, the tour can typically be customized to include additional activities such as visiting a local market, exploring a countryside village, or adding optional cycling or trekking. Speak with the tour provider about your interests to create a personalized itinerary.
Are Professional Photography Services Available During the Tour?
This tour doesn’t offer professional photography services, but you can bring your own camera to capture the scenic landscapes. The tour guide can provide tips on the best photo spots along the way.
Is There a Dress Code or Any Specific Attire Required?
There is no strict dress code, but comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear are recommended for the walking and hiking involved. Visitors should avoid wearing shorts, tank tops, or swimwear unless they plan to get wet during the boat tour.
Can We Request Vegetarian or Dietary-Specific Meal Options?
Yes, the tour provides vegetarian and dietary-specific meal options upon request. Customers can simply notify the tour operator in advance of any dietary requirements to ensure their needs are accommodated during the included lunch.
The Sum Up
This day tour from Hanoi offers a comprehensive exploration of Vietnam’s historical and natural wonders. From the ancient capital of Hoa Lu to the serene Tam Coc waterways and the panoramic views from Mua Cave, it’s an adventure packed with culture and stunning scenery. With convenient transportation, knowledgeable guides, and delicious meals, it’s an excellent way to experience the highlights of this remarkable region.
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