From Hanoi: Tam Coc or Trang An, Hoa Lu & Mua Cave Tour

Setting out on a scenic journey from Hanoi, travelers can explore the stunning landscapes of Ninh Binh. This full-day tour offers a chance to visit the ancient Hoa Lu capital and witness the breathtaking views from Mua Cave. Whether choosing the Tam Coc or Trang An boat ride, visitors will be captivated by the region’s natural beauty. With a buffet lunch and expert guidance, this tour promises a rich experience of Vietnam’s history and natural wonders. But what makes this journey truly unforgettable?

Good To Know

• This full-day tour from Hanoi takes visitors to the scenic Ninh Binh region, including Hoa Lu ancient capital, Mua Cave, and a bamboo boat ride on the Trang An River.
• The tour is priced at $38.83 per person and includes transportation, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees, and a buffet lunch.
• Highlights include climbing 500 steps to the Mua Cave viewpoint and exploring the three caves of the Trang An river system by bamboo boat.
• The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.
• Customer reviews praise the historical explanations by the guide and the scenic landscapes, but suggest longer boat trips and improved dining quality.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This full-day tour from Hanoi offers visitors the opportunity to explore the scenic Ninh Binh region, including the UNESCO-listed Hoa Lu ancient capital, the captivating Mua Cave, and the serene Trang An landscape.

Priced from $38.83 per person, the tour features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.

With a duration of approximately 1 day, the tour includes transportation, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees, and a buffet lunch at a local restaurant.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with pickup from hotels in Hanoi’s Old Quarter or the Hanoi Opera House for those staying elsewhere.

It’s a 2.5-hour scenic drive to Ninh Binh.

At the ancient capital Hoa Lu, a UNESCO site, visitors explore the Dinh King Temple and Le King Temple.

Next, they’ll ascend 500 steps to the Mua Cave for panoramic views.

After a Vietnamese buffet lunch, the tour continues with a bamboo boat ride through the three caves of Trang An, admiring the limestone karst formations.

The tour returns to Hanoi around 7:30 PM.

Included in the Tour

The tour includes air-conditioned shuttle bus transportation from Hanoi to the various sights.

The package also features:

• An English-speaking guide who provides informative commentary throughout the day.

• Entrance fees to the historic Hoa Lu (Dinh King Temple and Le King Temple) and the scenic Mua Cave.

• A relaxing bamboo boat ride on the Tam Coc River, passing through three caves and admiring the limestone karst formations.

• Bottled water for each participant.

• A buffet lunch at a local restaurant, offering a variety of Vietnamese dishes.

Exclusions

While the tour package includes several key elements, some costs aren’t covered.

Travelers are responsible for their personal expenses, such as souvenirs and snacks. Visa fees are also not included, so visitors must arrange for their own travel visas separately.

Plus, travel insurance isn’t provided, so it’s recommended that participants obtain their own personal coverage.

Finally, tips and gratuities for the guide and rowers, while not mandatory, are customary and expected to show appreciation for their services.

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Customer Feedback

How have past customers responded to this tour? Based on a compilation of 2 reviews, the tour has received an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Customers have praised:

• The informative historical explanations provided by the English-speaking guide

• The scenic bike rides through the beautiful Ninh Binh landscape

• The opportunity to witness the impressive limestone karst formations along the Trang An river

• The convenient hotel pickup and drop-off service

Suggestions for improvements include longer boat trips and better dining quality.

Choosing Between Tam Coc or Trang An

When deciding between the Tam Coc and Trang An tours, travelers should consider the unique experiences each location offers.

Tam Coc, known as "Ha Long Bay on land," features dramatic limestone cliffs and a leisurely boat ride through three caves.

Tam Coc, known as "Ha Long Bay on land," offers a leisurely boat ride through three dramatic limestone caves.

In contrast, Trang An offers a more serene, mystical experience with its tranquil boat trip through seven caves.

Both sites showcase Ninh Binh’s stunning natural landscapes, but the boat tours differ in duration and the number of caves explored.

Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference and the desired level of adventure for the day.

What to Expect at Hoa Lu

Visitors to Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam, can expect to be transported back in time as they explore the remnants of this historically significant site.

The tour includes visits to:

• The Dinh King Temple, where visitors can marvel at the intricate architecture and learn about the rulers who once occupied this sacred space.

• The Le King Temple, offering a glimpse into the religious beliefs and practices of the Dinh and Le dynasties.

• Panoramic views of the surrounding limestone karst formations, providing a stunning backdrop to the ancient structures.

• Informative commentary from the tour guide, sharing insights into the rich history and cultural significance of Hoa Lu.

• The opportunity to take in the tranquility of this UNESCO-recognized site, a testament to Vietnam’s enduring legacy.

The Challenge of Mua Cave

Ascending the 500 steps to the summit of Mua Cave presents a thrilling challenge for adventurous travelers. The steep, winding staircase tests one’s endurance, with each step offering panoramic vistas of the dramatic Hoa Lu landscape.

Though strenuous, the climb is well worth the effort, as the payoff is a breathtaking 360-degree view of the iconic limestone karst formations and winding rivers below.

Visitors should prepare by wearing comfortable footwear and bringing water, as the ascent can be arduous in the heat.

Those willing to tackle the Mua Cave climb are rewarded with a truly memorable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Combine This Tour With Other Activities in Ninh Binh?

Yes, travelers can combine this tour with other activities in Ninh Binh. There are options to extend the trip and explore additional sights, like Bich Dong Pagoda or Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, to create a more comprehensive experience.

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized. Travelers can work with the tour provider to add or modify activities based on their interests and preferences, though additional fees may apply for custom arrangements.

Do I Need Any Special Equipment for the Boat Ride and Hiking?

No special equipment is required for the boat ride and hiking. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are recommended for the hike up Mua Cave. The tour provider will provide life jackets for the bamboo boat ride.

Are There Any Age or Physical Fitness Requirements for This Tour?

There are no specific age or physical fitness requirements for this tour. However, visitors should be reasonably fit to handle the 500-step climb at Mua Cave. Children are welcome, and the boat ride is suitable for most participants.

Can I Book This Tour for a Private Group?

Yes, this tour can be booked for a private group. The tour operator offers a private group option, allowing you to customize the itinerary and experience with your own group at an additional cost.

The Sum Up

This tour offers an excellent opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes of Ninh Binh from Hanoi. Visitors can choose between the serene Tam Coc or the enchanting Trang An, before discovering the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and the challenging Mua Cave. With a scenic drive, a buffet lunch, and expert guidance, this full-day adventure provides a rich experience of Vietnam’s natural and historical beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: