Exploring the enchanting landscapes of Vietnam’s Hoa Lu, Trang An, and Mua Cave is a captivating adventure. Visitors will enjoy the country’s rich history while admiring its natural beauty. From touring ancient temples to cruising serene waterways, this small group tour offers a well-rounded experience. Whether seeking cultural insights or breathtaking vistas, travelers can expect an unforgettable journey through some of Vietnam’s most treasured destinations.
Key Points
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This small group tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, and Mua Cave, providing insights into Vietnam’s history and natural beauty.
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The tour includes guided visits, cycling experiences, and boat cruises through caves and temples, offering a well-rounded and immersive experience.
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Hikers can enjoy panoramic views of the Tam Coc region from the summit of Ngoa Long Mountain, accessible via a challenging 438-step staircase.
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The tour is priced at $50.83 per person and is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience.
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The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with vertigo, as it involves activities that may be physically demanding.
Tour Overview
This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, and Mua Cave in Ninh Binh province.
Priced from $50.83 per person, it’s a 12-hour small group tour limited to 8 participants.
The tour includes guided visits to ancient temples, a cycling experience, and boat cruises through caves and temples.
Travelers will also hike for panoramic views of Tam Coc.
Transportation, meals, and select amenities are provided.
The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with vertigo.
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and water are recommended.
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Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
The tour’s first stop is the historic Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, the former seat of Vietnamese dynasties in the 10th and 11th centuries.
Visitors will explore the Dinh and Le King Temples, which date back to the 17th century. A guided tour provides insights into the site’s rich history and significance.
After the visit, guests embark on a leisurely 1-hour cycling experience through the surrounding villages and rice fields, offering a glimpse into rural Vietnamese life.
This part of the tour allows travelers to enjoy the serene countryside before moving on to the next destinations.
Cycling Experience
After exploring the historic Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, travelers embark on a leisurely 1-hour cycling experience through the surrounding villages and rice fields.
The cycling portion offers a chance to:
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Immerse in the local rural scenery, with lush green rice paddies and peaceful hamlets.
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Interact with friendly villagers going about their daily lives.
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Appreciate the tranquility and slower pace of the countryside.
This cycling interlude provides a refreshing contrast to the previous temple visits, allowing participants to further connect with the natural beauty of the Ninh Binh province.
Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex
Next, travelers embark on a captivating 2.5-hour boat cruise through the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex.
They’ll explore a series of caves and temples, including Lam Cave, Vang Cave, Dai Cave, Thanh Truot Cave, Cao Sơn Temple, Suoi Tien Temple, and Vu Lam Temple.
The serene boat ride offers a chance to take in the stunning limestone formations, lush greenery, and tranquil waterways that make this UNESCO World Heritage site so remarkable.
Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of this unique landscape.
More Great Tours NearbyMua Cave & Ngoa Long Mountain
After the serene boat cruise, visitors then hike to the summit of Ngoa Long Mountain to reach the iconic Mua Cave.
The hike takes approximately 1.5 hours and rewards trekkers with panoramic views of the Tam Coc landscape.
At the top, Mua Cave offers:
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Picturesque vistas overlooking the winding rivers, limestone cliffs, and rice paddies below.
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A 438-step staircase carved into the mountainside for an intense ascent.
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The chance to explore the cave’s interior, which features unique rock formations and a serene temple.
This activity isn’t recommended for those with vertigo or physical limitations.
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Transportation and Amenities
The tour provides comfortable bus transportation with an experienced driver to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. Bottled mineral water is included, and a buffet lunch at a local restaurant is provided. The tour also includes complimentary hats, umbrellas, and raincoats. Tips for the guide and driver are also covered.
| Transportation | Included Amenities | Excluded Extras |
| — | — | — |
| Comfortable bus | Bottled water | Soft drinks |
| Experienced driver | Buffet lunch | Additional services |
| Smooth journey | Hats, umbrellas, raincoats | – |
| Tips for guide and driver | – | – |
Visitors are advised to bring comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water. Smoking is not allowed during the tour.
Important Information
Although the tour is suitable for most participants, it isn’t recommended for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or individuals with vertigo.
The tour is not recommended for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or individuals with vertigo due to the nature of the activities.
Guests are advised to bring:
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Comfortable shoes for walking and hiking.
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A hat, sunscreen, and water to stay hydrated.
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A camera to capture the stunning scenery.
Smoking isn’t allowed during the tour.
Soft drinks or additional services not mentioned in the itinerary are available at an extra cost.
The tour includes transportation, a buffet lunch, and complimentary hats, umbrellas, and raincoats to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Meeting Point and Schedule
The tour pickup time is between 7:30 – 8:00 AM from your hotel in Hanoi.
If your hotel isn’t located in the Hanoi Old Quarter, you’ll need to meet the group at 41 Luong Van Can, Hoàn Kiem, Hanoi.
The tour departs for Ninh Binh province, with a 15-20 minute break along the way.
It’s important to be ready at the designated pickup time, as the group can’t wait for late arrivals.
Please ensure you have all necessary items, such as comfortable shoes and a camera, to make the most of this full-day excursion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Photography Allowed During the Boat Cruise?
Photography is allowed during the boat cruise. Visitors are encouraged to capture the scenic landscapes and cave formations along the way, but they must be mindful of not disturbing the boat ride or other passengers.
Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks on the Tour?
Participants can bring their own snacks and drinks on the tour. However, bottled mineral water is provided, and any additional soft drinks or services not mentioned in the itinerary will incur extra costs.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
There’s no option to extend the tour duration. The tour is a fixed itinerary that lasts 12 hours. Any requests to extend the length would need to be handled separately with the tour operator, if available, and may incur additional costs.
How Much Time Is Allocated for Each Activity?
The tour allocates specific time slots for each activity. Visitors can expect around 1 hour for the Hoa Lu ancient capital visit, 1 hour for cycling, 2.5 hours for the Trang An boat cruise, and 1.5 hours for hiking to Mua Cave.
Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes Not Mentioned?
The tour price doesn’t include any additional fees or taxes. However, soft drinks or any extra services not explicitly mentioned are at an extra cost to the participant.
The Sum Up
The Hoa Lu – Trang An Boat Trip & Mua Cave Small Group Tour offers a captivating exploration of Vietnam’s rich history and stunning natural landscapes. From the ancient Hoa Lu Capital to the serene Trang An Scenic Landscape and the challenging hike to Mua Cave, this all-encompassing experience promises an unforgettable day of adventure and culture.
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