Discover the captivating landscapes and rich history of Ninh Binh on this guided day trip from Hanoi. Explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, drift through the serene waters of Tam Coc, and challenge yourself with a hike up Mua Cave. With a cycle ride through verdant rice fields, a delicious buffet lunch, and all entrance fees covered, this immersive experience offers a perfect blend of culture and nature. Prepare to be enchanted by the natural wonders and historical significance of this enchanting region.
Key Points
- A day trip from Hanoi to the Ninh Binh region, covering Hoa Lu, Tam Coc, and Mua Cave, along with a cycling tour, for $38.21 per person after a 33% discount.
- The tour includes round-trip transportation, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees, a buffet lunch, and a boat ride, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- The itinerary features 2.5 hours of travel time from Hanoi to Hoa Lu, a 1.5-hour guided tour of Hoa Lu, a 1.5-hour bike tour, and a 1.5-hour boat ride in Tam Coc.
- The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or a fear of heights, and it is not recommended for young children.
- The tour has an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 39 reviews, with praise for the knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and excellent value.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The tour is a day trip from Hanoi to the picturesque Ninh Binh region, which includes visits to the historic Hoa Lu, the scenic Tam Coc, and the optional hike up Mua Cave.
Priced at $38.21 per person, the tour offers a 33% discount. It lasts 1 day and features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Travelers can reserve the tour and pay later without upfront payment. The tour includes round-trip transportation, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees, a buffet lunch, and a boat ride in Tam Coc.
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Itinerary Highlights
The tour begins with pickup from hotels in Hanoi’s Old Quarter or a meeting at the Hanoi Opera House. The travel time from Hanoi to Hoa Lu is 2.5 hours, with a 20-minute rest stop along the way. Once at Hoa Lu, guests will enjoy a guided tour of the ancient capital. This is followed by a 1.5-hour bike tour and a buffet lunch with 30 dishes. Next, a 1.5-hour boat ride in Tam Coc, and an optional 1.5-hour hike at Mua Cave. The tour returns to Hanoi by 8-8:30 PM.
| Activity | Duration |
| — | — |
| Guided Tour of Hoa Lu | 1.5 hours |
| Bike Tour | 1.5 hours |
| Boat Ride in Tam Coc | 1.5 hours |
| Hike at Mua Cave (optional) | 1.5 hours |
| Travel Time from Hanoi | 2.5 hours |
Included Services
This tour includes several services to enhance the experience.
Roundtrip transportation by limousine or bus is provided, with hotel pickup and drop-off for those staying in the Hanoi Old Quarter. An English-speaking guide accompanies the group throughout the day.
The boat ride in Tam Coc is included, as are entrance fees to Hoa Lu and Mua Cave (if selected). A buffet lunch with 30 dishes, including vegetarian options, is provided.
Cycling activities and tips for the guide and driver are also part of the package. A bottle of water is given to each traveler.
Important Information and Requirements
Although not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or fear of heights, this tour offers a range of recommended items to ensure a comfortable experience.
This tour may not be suitable for those with mobility issues or a fear of heights, but comes with recommendations for a comfortable experience.
Visitors should bring:
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Comfortable shoes to tackle the activities
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Sunglasses, hat, and umbrella to protect against the sun
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Sunscreen to prevent sunburns
Plus, the tour isn’t recommended for young children.
While those aged 1-4 can attend for free if sitting with parents, extra fees apply for ages 4 and up.
Lastly, visitors are expected to respect the local environment and avoid littering.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Reviews and Ratings
The tour receives an impressive 4.7 out of 5 rating based on 39 reviews. The guide rating stands at 4.8/5, while the transportation rating is 4.6/5. Customers rate the value for money at 4.8/5, praising the diverse activities, beautiful locations, and quality of the included lunch. The tour’s highlights include:
| Metric | Rating |
| ————- | —— |
| Guide | 4.8/5 |
| Transportation| 4.6/5 |
| Value | 4.8/5 |
Travelers appreciate the knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and overall excellent value for the price. The tour provides an immersive experience exploring Ninh Binh’s natural wonders.
Exploring Hoa Lu – The Ancient Capital
The tour begins with a visit to Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam during the 10th and 11th centuries.
The guided tour at this historical site showcases:
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Impressive remnants of the two kings’ palaces and temples, providing a glimpse into the region’s illustrious past.
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Stunning natural landscapes, including limestone karsts and winding rivers, which formed the backdrop for this ancient capital.
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Insights into the cultural and architectural significance of Hoa Lu, a testament to Vietnam’s rich heritage.
Following the tour, the group proceeds to the next stop on the day’s itinerary.
Discovering Tam Coc’s Breathtaking Boat Ride
After exploring the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, the tour proceeds to the serene and picturesque Tam Coc.
Travelers embark on a 1.5-hour boat ride along the Ngo Dong River, surrounded by limestone karsts and verdant rice fields. The local rowers propel the boats with their feet, allowing visitors to sit back and admire the stunning natural scenery.
The highlight is the three cave systems – Hang Ca, Hang Giua, and Hang Cuoi – carved through the mountains. Visitors can marvel at the dramatic rock formations and the tranquil, reflective waters.
This peaceful boat trip is a memorable experience.
Challenging Hike at Mua Cave
Leaving the serene boat ride of Tam Coc behind, the tour now heads to the challenging hike at Mua Cave. The steep ascent offers stunning panoramic views of the Ngo Dong River and limestone mountains, but isn’t for the faint of heart.
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The 500-step climb to the top of Mua Cave takes around 1.5 hours and requires a good level of fitness.
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At the summit, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree vistas over the Ninh Binh landscape.
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Those with a fear of heights or mobility issues should opt out of this optional activity and enjoy the boat ride instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Book This Tour for a Small Private Group?
Yes, the tour can be booked for a small private group. The tour operator offers flexible booking options, allowing customers to arrange a private tour based on their group size and preferences.
Do You Provide Vegetarian or Halal Meal Options?
Yes, the tour includes a buffet lunch with vegetarian options. Halal meals can also be provided upon request when booking. The guide will ensure all dietary needs are accommodated during the tour.
Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?
Yes, the tour can be customized to suit your preferences. You can discuss any changes you’d like to make, such as modifying the activities or adding specific dietary requirements, with the tour operator prior to booking.
Is There a Discount for Students or Seniors?
There’s no mention of specific discounts for students or seniors. However, the overall tour price can be discounted by up to 33% from the original $57.03 per person, so further reductions may be available.
How Can I Contact the Tour Operator in Case of Any Issues?
The tour operator provides a 24/7 customer support hotline to address any issues or concerns. Guests can contact the team at the phone number listed on their booking confirmation or in the tour information provided.
The Sum Up
This day trip from Hanoi offers a comprehensive exploration of Ninh Binh’s natural wonders and historical landmarks. Visitors can expect a scenic bike ride, serene boat trip, and challenging hike, all while learning about the region’s rich culture. With an English-speaking guide, delicious lunch, and all fees covered, this immersive experience provides excellent value for just $38.21 per person.
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