Hanoi: 2-Day All-Inclusive Ninh Binh & Ha Long Bay Tour

Vietnam’s captivating natural wonders come alive on this 2-day excursion from Hanoi. Travelers can enjoy the ancient history of Hoa Lu, drift peacefully through the Tam Coc river system, and witness the breathtaking limestone formations of Ha Long Bay. With meals, transportation, and accommodations included, this all-inclusive tour offers exceptional value for those seeking an unforgettable Vietnamese adventure. But the real question is, what unexpected treasures might this journey uncover?

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Key Points

This 2-day tour from Hanoi offers an all-inclusive experience visiting Ninh Binh and Ha Long Bay, priced from $126 per person.
The tour includes transportation, meals, accommodation, and a detailed itinerary covering Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Tam Coc, Mua Cave, and a cruise in Ha Long Bay.
Day 1 focuses on exploring the Ninh Binh region, including a visit to the ancient capital, a boat ride in Tam Coc, and countryside biking.
On Day 2, the tour departs Ninh Binh for Ha Long Bay, where guests can enjoy a 6-hour cruise, cave exploration, and water activities.
The tour features flexible booking options, free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and exceptional value for the breadth of experiences included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Ninh Binh & Ha Long Bay Tour offers a 2-day all-inclusive experience, priced from $126.00 per person.

Booking is flexible, allowing you to reserve now and pay later. Plus, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour duration is 2 days, with a detailed itinerary that includes exploring the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, a boat tour and countryside biking in Tam Coc, climbing Mua Cave, and cruising through the stunning landscapes of Ha Long Bay.

A 2-day itinerary exploring the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Tam Coc boat tour and biking, Mua Cave, and the stunning landscapes of Ha Long Bay.

Meals, transportation, and accommodation are all included, making this an exceptional value for travelers.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Ha Long

Day 1: Hanoi to Ninh Binh

On the first day, the tour begins with pickup from the Hanoi Old Quarter between 7:15 am and 7:35 am. Leaving the city, the group travels to the historic Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, founded in 968. After a buffet lunch in Tam Coc, they’ll embark on a rowing boat tour and cycle through the countryside. Next, they’ll climb Mua Cave to take in the panoramic views. The day ends with an overnight stay at a bungalow.

| Destination | Activity | Duration |

| — | — | — |

| Hoa Lu Ancient Capital | Visit historic site | – |

| Tam Coc | Buffet lunch | – |

| Tam Coc | Rowing boat tour and countryside biking | 2 hours |

| Mua Cave | Climb for panoramic views | – |

| Ninh Binh | Overnight stay at bungalow | 1 night |

Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, founded in 968, serves as the first stop on the Ninh Binh portion of the tour.

Travelers explore the remains of this ancient capital, including temples, palaces, and pagodas. They’ll marvel at the impressive architecture and learn about the rich history of the Dinh and Le dynasties that ruled from this site.

The scenic limestone karst landscape surrounding Hoa Lu provides a picturesque backdrop for this cultural experience.

After touring the ancient capital, the group enjoys a buffet lunch in nearby Tam Coc before continuing their journey through the countryside.

Tam Coc and Countryside Biking

After touring the ancient capital, the group enjoys a buffet lunch in nearby Tam Coc.

From there, they embark on a tranquil boat tour along the Ngo Dong River, weaving through the limestone karsts and verdant rice paddies.

Following the boat ride, the group sets out on a countryside bike ride, exploring the picturesque rural landscape.

This activity allows them to:

Immerse themselves in the daily life and routines of local villagers.
Appreciate the serene natural beauty of the region.
Engage in a physically active yet relaxing experience.

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Mua Cave

Towering over the lush landscape, Mua Cave beckons visitors to embark on a challenging yet rewarding climb. The ascent up 500 stone steps rewards trekkers with breathtaking panoramic views of the Ninh Binh region. From the summit, one can gaze upon the serene rivers, verdant rice paddies, and iconic karst formations that define this UNESCO-recognized landscape. A visit to Mua Cave is a must for anyone seeking to fully enjoy the natural splendor of northern Vietnam.

| Mua Cave Highlights |

| — | — | — | — | — |

There's plenty more to explore in Ha Long

Day 2: Ninh Binh to Ha Long Bay

After a restful night’s stay in Ninh Binh, the tour continues its journey to the iconic Ha Long Bay.

The group departs early, taking a limousine bus to Tuan Chau Harbour. Once there, they board a deluxe cruise ship for a 6-hour journey through the stunning limestone formations.

The highlights include:

Exploring the Sung Sot Cave, a vast network of grottoes and chambers.
Kayaking or bamboo boat riding to experience the bay’s serene waters up close.
Visiting Titop Island for a chance to swim or trek to panoramic viewpoints.

The day culminates with a sunset tea service before returning to Hanoi.

Cruise Highlights

While cruising through the enchanting waters of Ha Long Bay, travelers can look forward to a variety of captivating experiences.

They’ll explore the Sung Sot Cave, discovering its massive chambers and intricate stalactites. Guests can then choose to kayak or take a bamboo boat ride, paddling through the serene lagoons and caves.

After working up an appetite, they’ll enjoy a delicious Vietnamese-style lunch aboard the boat.

As the sun sets, the group will gather for refreshing tea while admiring the scenic vistas.

This cruise offers an immersive glimpse into Ha Long Bay’s natural wonders.

Customer Reviews

Based on the overwhelmingly positive reviews, travelers appear to be highly satisfied with this Ninh Binh and Ha Long Bay tour.

Among the most notable comments:

Michael from Canada praised the tour’s organization and efficient use of limited time.
Dorota from Poland described the experience as "great."
A GetYourGuide traveler from Morocco highly recommended this activity.

The tour’s highlights, including the panoramic views from Mua Cave, kayaking, and visiting Sung Sot Cave and Titop Island, seem to have resonated with customers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Add or Remove Activities From the Itinerary?

Yes, the tour allows flexibility to customize the itinerary. Travelers can add or remove activities according to their preferences, providing a more personalized experience. This ensures the tour meets their specific interests and needs.

What Is the Minimum Group Size for This Tour?

The minimum group size for this tour is not specified. However, the tour offers flexible booking, allowing travelers to reserve their spot and pay later. It also provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is There an Option to Upgrade the Accommodation?

The tour offers an optional upgrade to the accommodation at Ninh Binh. Travelers can choose to stay in a bungalow or opt for a higher-end hotel, depending on their preferences and budget. The upgraded accommodation option provides more comfort and amenities.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Included Meals?

The tour accommodates various dietary restrictions. Travelers can request vegetarian, halal, kosher, or other dietary options when booking. The meals served during the tour are prepared to cater to different dietary needs and preferences.

Can I Extend My Stay in Ninh Binh or Ha Long Bay?

Yes, you can extend your stay in Ninh Binh or Ha Long Bay. The tour operator offers flexible booking options, allowing you to customize your itinerary and extend your time in these destinations if you’d like to explore further.

The Sum Up

This 2-day tour from Hanoi offers an immersive experience, showcasing Vietnam’s stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the historic Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, enjoy a serene boat ride in Tam Coc, and embark on a luxurious cruise through the breathtaking Ha Long Bay. With all meals, transportation, and accommodations included, this tour provides exceptional value and a memorable journey through the heart of Vietnam.