Ninh Binh : Countryside Tour by Motorcycle – Buffalow Riding

Exploring Vietnam’s Ninh Binh region on a motorcycle is one of those travel experiences that promises more than just sightseeing — it offers a chance to truly connect with the land, its people, and its culture. This particular tour, offered by Orange Tour, combines thrilling local activities with scenic drives, making it a fantastic option for those eager to see the authentic side of northern Vietnam.

What makes this tour appealing? First, you get the chance to ride a water buffalo in the rice fields — something you won’t find on typical guided tours. Second, the itinerary cleverly mixes cultural visits like Thai Vi Temple with hands-on activities such as feeding ducks and cooking classes. Third, the scenic drives through quiet countryside villages reveal the everyday life of local farmers, far from tourist crowds. However, one consideration is that the full day involves quite a bit of riding and activity, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable on motorcycles and able to handle a busy, physical itinerary. This tour is perfect for adventurous souls wanting a genuine, immersive taste of rural Ninh Binh.

Key Points

• Authentic rural experiences like buffalo riding and duck feeding
• Scenic countryside drives through villages and rice paddies
• Cultural highlights including Thai Vi Temple and Buffalo Cave
• Hands-on activities such as cooking classes and stream bathing
• Flexible itinerary with personalized touches based on your interests
• Good value for the price at $51, offering a full day of diverse activities

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why We Love the Ninh Binh Countryside Motorcycle Tour

This tour strikes a lovely balance between adventure, culture, and relaxation. We loved how it goes beyond the usual temple visits, offering a glimpse into daily life in rural Vietnam. The chance to ride a water buffalo in the lush rice fields is an absolute highlight; it’s a rare, memorable experience that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a different world.

The knowledgeable guides, who are fluent in English, make all the difference. They are also quite flexible, adjusting the day based on your interests and energy levels — a point highlighted by those who appreciated the personalized touch (“they were flexible to changing the trip itinerary”). Plus, the scenic drives along quiet country roads, surrounded by lotus ponds and mountain views, add a peaceful vibe to the day.

However, keep in mind that at 8 hours, this is a full-day adventure. It involves a fair amount of riding and walking, so if you’re not comfortable on a motorcycle or not used to active outings, it might feel a bit tiring. Also, since the tour includes several stops, it’s great for those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and hands-on activities rather than just passive viewing.

This experience is best suited for travelers craving an authentic, off-the-beaten-path journey that immerses you in local culture and scenery. It’s ideal for curious, active guests who want to see and do rather than just observe.

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Pickup and Early Morning Drive

The tour kicks off around 9:00 am with a hotel pickup in Ninh Binh. The initial drive takes you through rural villages, where you’ll be treated to views of rice paddies, lotus fields, and mountains — scenes straight out of a Vietnamese postcard. The relaxed pace and picturesque scenery immediately set a peaceful tone.

Thai Vi Temple Visit

At around 11:00 am, you’ll stop at Thai Vi Temple, a site that dates back to the Tran feudal dynasty. This spot is not just about architecture; it’s about connecting with Vietnam’s history. The guided tour here gives insights into the temple’s folklore and its significance, making it more than just a photo op. Reviewers mention it’s an unforgettable experience for first-time visitors who are keen on history and culture.

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Buffalo Cave and Lunch

The next highlight is the Buffalo Cave, a spot that combines natural beauty with hands-on fun. Here, guests can try feeding ducks and riding a water buffalo—a highlight for many, with travelers like Aalish saying, “They took lovely photos of us and made sure we were well fed throughout the trip.” The tour includes a cooking class, where you might learn local recipes, adding a culinary touch to your day. Afterward, a hearty lunch is served — a good way to refuel before more exploring.

Thung Nang and Coi Khe Village

Post-lunch, the tour takes you to Thung Nang, a scenic area renowned for its tranquility and stunning views. It’s a brief visit, but enough for memorable photos and a taste of the natural landscape. Later, the drive continues through Coi Khe village, offering a window into daily village life. Several travelers appreciated the local village roads and the chance to see farmers at work, emphasizing how these moments provided genuine cultural insight.

Return and Reflection

By around 4:30 pm, the group heads back toward Ninh Binh, with time to reflect on a day filled with scenic beauty, cultural learning, and playful activities. The last leg includes a visit to a local market, which adds a final flavor of local commerce and daily life.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers excellent value considering the variety of activities, with hotel pickup and drop-off, all entrance fees, a professional English-speaking guide, and lunch included. The motorbike or scooter, provided with a helmet, ensures a smooth ride through the countryside.

What isn’t included? Personal expenses and drinks, so it’s wise to carry some cash for souvenirs or refreshments. Reviewers mention the guides are accommodating, making sure everyone has what they need — which adds peace of mind for those new to motorcycle tours.

The Experience of the Guides and Group Dynamics

Guests consistently praised the knowledgeable guides, who are fluent in English, friendly, and flexible. Aalish’s review highlights that guides like “expertly drove us through rice fields,” and “made sure we were well fed,” which speaks to their attentiveness.

GetYourGuide’s review mentions the staff as being “very good and accommodating,” which reassures travelers that they’re in capable hands. Small group sizes mean more personalized attention, and guides often take photos — a bonus for those wanting memories without the selfie-stick hassle.

Practical Considerations and Tips

• Comfort on motorcycle: Since the tour involves riding, it’s best suited for those who are comfortable on bikes or scooters. The group size is not specified but generally small, enhancing the personalized feel.
• Physical activity: Expect some walking, especially at temples and caves, and the activities like buffalo riding and feeding ducks, which are casual but engaging.
• Clothing: Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothes, and bring sunscreen or hats if sunny.
• Timing: Confirm the start time when booking, as availability may vary.
• Pace: It’s a full day, so bring a sense of adventure and patience for a busy, activity-packed itinerary.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventure lovers and those eager for culture in the Vietnamese countryside. If you enjoy hands-on activities like riding water buffalo, cooking, or feeding ducks, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s also perfect for travelers who want to see the real Ninh Binh beyond the main tourist spots, with a knowledgeable guide leading the way.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed, less physically active day, or if motorcycle riding isn’t your thing, this might not be the best fit. Pregnant women are advised against participating, given the physical and riding elements.

Overall, for a full, engaging day that combines scenic beauty with authentic local experiences, this motorcycle tour by Orange Tour provides excellent value and memorable moments.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
The tour is designed for active participants comfortable on motorcycles. Seniors or small children might find the physical aspects challenging, so it’s best to check with the provider about age restrictions.

Does the tour include transportation back to the hotel?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, simplifying logistics and allowing you to relax after a busy day.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and some cash for personal expenses or souvenirs. Wear comfortable clothes suitable for riding and outdoor activities.

Are meals included?
Yes, a lunch is provided, typically featuring local dishes. The tour also includes a cooking class, offering a taste of local cuisine.

Can I participate if I don’t know how to ride a motorcycle?
The experience involves riding a motorbike or scooter, so a basic comfort level with riding is recommended. If unsure, mention this when booking or inquire about alternatives.

What’s the best time of day to do this tour?
Starting around 9:00 am, the tour covers a full day, allowing you to enjoy the cooler morning hours and avoid the midday heat.

What if I want a more relaxed experience?
Since this is a busy, activity-filled day, if relaxation is your priority, consider a different tour focused on gentle sightseeing rather than active participation.

This Ninh Binh countryside motorcycle tour offers a rich mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty — perfect for travelers craving immersive, memorable experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here: