Hanoi/Ninh Binh: Trang An, Hoa Lu & Mua Caves Full-Day Trip

Set out on a captivating journey through the stunning landscapes of Northern Vietnam. This full-day excursion from Hanoi to Ninh Binh promises an immersive cultural experience, unveiling the region’s ancient history and natural wonders. Venture to the former capital of Hoa Lu, explore timeless temples, and drift along the serene Trang An waterways, surrounded by majestic karst formations. But the real showstopper? Scaling the dramatic Mua Cave for unparalleled panoramic vistas. Ready to discover why this excursion is a must-do for any Vietnam itinerary?

Key Points

• This full-day trip from Hanoi to Trang An, Hoa Lu, and Mua Caves costs $49.16 per person and lasts approximately 12 hours.
• The trip includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, entrance fees, a sampan boat ride, and a Vietnamese buffet lunch.
• Highlights of the trip include visits to Dinh King Temple, Le King Temple, and a 2.5-hour sampan boat ride through Trang An caves.
• The trip is not suitable for individuals with heart problems or wheelchair users, and comfortable shoes, sun protection, and appropriate clothing are recommended.
• Itineraries may change based on weather and conditions, and the tour operator should be informed of any dietary needs or preferences.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview and Pricing

The full-day trip from Hanoi to Trang An and Mua Cave costs from $49.16 per person and lasts approximately 12 hours.

Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, entrance fees, a sampan boat ride, an English-speaking guide, a Vietnamese buffet lunch, and bike rentals for village cycling.

However, the trip isn’t suitable for people with heart problems or wheelchair users. Travelers should bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and notify the operator of any dietary needs.

The itinerary is subject to change due to weather and conditions.

Itinerary Highlights

The trip begins with hotel pickup at 7 AM, where the guide will contact travelers.

The trip begins with hotel pickup at 7 AM, where the guide will contact travelers.

Next, they’ll travel by air-conditioned bus for 3.5 hours to Hoa Lu, the 10th-century ancient capital. There, they’ll tour Dinh King Temple and Le King Temple.

After, they’ll enjoy a Vietnamese buffet lunch at a local restaurant.

The highlight is a 2.5-hour sampan boat ride through the Trang An caves.

Finally, they’ll climb 500 stone steps at Mua Cave for panoramic views before returning to Hanoi, with drop-off in the Old Quarter.

Inclusions

This full-day trip includes several key components. The package includes:

1. Hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day.

2. Transportation and entrance fees, covering all the logistics.

3. A sampan boat ride through the stunning Trang An landscape, allowing you to explore the caves.

4. An English-speaking guide to provide insights and historical context throughout the journey.

Plus, a Vietnamese buffet lunch at a 5-star restaurant, as well as water and wet wipes on the vehicle, are provided.

Bike rental for village cycling is also included, allowing you to learn about the local culture.

Important Information

This trip may not be suitable for people with heart problems or wheelchair users.

Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hats, and bring umbrellas, cameras, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes.

Smoking isn’t allowed in the vehicle, and pets aren’t permitted.

The tour operator should be notified of any vegetarian or dietary needs.

The meeting point is at the entrance of the Hoa Lu Temple Complex between 10:10-10:30 AM.

Visitors can choose to end the trip at either Trang An or Ninh Binh.

Shorts aren’t allowed in temples.

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Additional Notes

Depending on the weather and conditions, itineraries may be subject to change.

The meeting point is at the entrance of the Hoa Lu Temple Complex between 10:10-10:30 AM. Travelers have the option to end the trip in Trang An or Ninh Binh.

Meet at the Hoa Lu Temple Complex entrance between 10:10-10:30 AM. End the trip in Trang An or Ninh Binh as desired.

Please note that shorts aren’t allowed in temples. Here are a few additional notes:

1. Dress code: Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing.

2. Photography: Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes.

3. Smoking: Smoking is prohibited inside the vehicle.

4. Special requests: Inform the operator of any dietary needs or preferences.

Hoa Lu: Ancient Capital and Temples

After the scenic drive to Hoa Lu, the tour group is led on a guided exploration of this ancient capital.

They visit the Dinh King Temple and Le King Temple, remnants of the 10th-century dynastic era. The temples’ ornate architecture and historical significance captivate the travelers.

The guide shares insights into Hoa Lu’s role as the political heart of the Dinh and early Le dynasties. With its well-preserved monuments, the ancient capital offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s storied past.

The group spends an hour immersed in this cultural and architectural gem before continuing the day’s adventurous itinerary.

Trang An: Boat Ride Through Caves

From Hoa Lu, the group boards an air-conditioned bus for the scenic drive to Trang An, a UNESCO-recognized landscape complex.

Upon arrival, visitors embark on a 2.5-hour sampan boat ride, exploring the stunning limestone caves and waterways of this natural wonder:

1. Glide through the serene, reflective waters, surrounded by towering, verdant cliffs.

2. Discover hidden grottoes and caverns, some of which were used as royal palaces and religious sanctuaries centuries ago.

3. Spot indigenous wildlife, including the langur monkeys that inhabit the region.

4. Capture breathtaking photographs of the idyllic landscape from the comfort of the traditional wooden boat.

Mua Cave: Climb for Panoramic Views

After the leisurely boat ride through Trang An’s serene waterways, visitors climb the 500 stone steps up Mua Cave’s dramatic hillside.

The steep ascent rewards trekkers with panoramic vistas overlooking the stunning limestone karst landscape. At the summit, guests enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of the Ngo Dong River, Trang An Complex, and surrounding mountains.

This challenging climb takes approximately 1.5 hours. Though not recommended for those with heart conditions or mobility issues, the view from the top is well worth the effort for able-bodied travelers seeking an adrenaline-fueled experience and photo opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Trip?

The tour allows passengers to bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic drinks, but it does not provide water or wet wipes on the vehicle. A buffet lunch is included in the tour package.

Is There an Option to Book a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, there’s an option to book a private tour instead of a group tour. Private tours provide a more personalized experience and allow for more flexibility in the itinerary. Prices for private tours may be higher than group tours.

Can I Visit Any Additional Sites Not Mentioned in the Itinerary?

Guests can’t visit additional sites not mentioned in the itinerary. The tour operator provides a fixed, full-day program that covers the main attractions of Hoa Lu, Trang An, and Mua Cave. Any special requests should be discussed with the operator in advance.

Do I Need to Purchase Travel Insurance for This Trip?

The tour operator doesn’t require travelers to purchase travel insurance for this trip. However, it’s generally recommended to have travel insurance in case of unexpected events or emergencies during the trip.

Is There a Way to Upgrade or Modify the Included Lunch Option?

The tour operator likely allows passengers to upgrade or modify the included buffet lunch. Passengers can likely pay an additional fee to choose a different dining option or cuisine style. However, this would need to be arranged with the operator in advance.

The Sum Up

This Northern Vietnam day trip allows travelers to enjoy the region’s rich history and stunning natural beauty. From exploring the ancient capital of Hoa Lu to gliding through the serene Trang An caves and scaling the Mua Cave viewpoint, the Hanoi/Ninh Binh excursion offers an unforgettable experience showcasing the diverse landscapes and cultural heritage of the area.

You can check availability for your dates here: