The 14 Most Popular Tours & Experiences In Thanh Hoa

Thanh Hoa might not be the first place that comes to mind when planning a Vietnam trip, but it offers a treasure trove of authentic experiences. Whether you’re after scenic landscapes, historical sites, or outdoor adventures, Thanh Hoa’s tours deliver. We particularly love the From Ninh Binh: Bai Dinh, Hoa Lu, Trang An, Mua Cave Tour, because it combines cultural discovery with breathtaking views and active exploration. Imagine climbing 500 steps for a panoramic view or drifting through limestone caves—those moments make Thanh Hoa unforgettable.

If you’re eager for nature and wildlife, the Ninh Binh: Wildlife, Jungle Hike, Cuc Phuong Park Guide Tour takes you deep into the jungle and past endangered primates, offering a genuinely immersive experience. For those wanting an extended adventure, the Pu Luong Hiking 3 Days 2 Nights From Hanoi combines trekking, village visits, and off-the-beaten-path moments—perfect for serious nature lovers. Below is a detailed look at each top-rated tour to help you find your ideal experience.

1. From Ninh Binh : Bai Dinh, Hoa Lu, Trang An, Mua Cave Tour

At number 1, this full-day small group tour offers a comprehensive look at Ninh Binh’s highlights. Starting with a trip to Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s first capital, you’ll see temples from the 10th century and learn about early royal history. The journey then takes you to Bai Dinh Pagoda, Southeast Asia’s largest Buddhist complex, featuring hundreds of statues and panoramic views of limestone karsts. A boat ride in Trang An, often called “Ha Long Bay on land,” glides through caves and lush scenery, offering tranquility and photo-worthy moments. The hike up Mua Cave rewards you with a 360-degree view of rice paddies and limestone peaks.
Practical and flexible, this tour is best suited for travelers craving a mix of culture, scenic beauty, and active exploration. It’s great value at just $14, with reviews praising the guide’s storytelling and the scenic boat ride.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a full-day immersion into Ninh Binh’s cultural and natural treasures, especially if you enjoy a bit of hiking and history.

2. Ninh Binh: Wildlife, Jungle Hike, Cuc Phuong Park Guide Tour

Rated 4.6/5 by 94 reviewers, this 9-hour tour dives into the wild heart of Ninh Binh. It starts with a visit to the Endangered Primate Rescue Center, home to species like the Delacour’s Langur. Then, you’ll trek 4 km through lush rainforest, exploring ancient caves and spotting wildlife. The tour includes a traditional Vietnamese lunch in the park’s restaurant, adding local flavor to the adventure. In the afternoon, explore Cuc Phuong National Park’s trails and caves, soaking in scenic views and the sounds of nature.
This experience is ideal for nature lovers who want to see rare wildlife and hike through pristine jungle. The small group setting ensures personalized attention from knowledgeable guides, and the price reflects excellent value for the depth of exploration.
Bottom Line: A perfect choice for eco-conscious travelers who want to see wildlife and experience Vietnam’s jungles firsthand.

3. Pu Luong Hiking 3 Days 2 Nights From Ha Noi

With a perfect 5/5 rating, this multi-day trek takes you through Pu Luong’s most scenic landscapes. Starting from Hanoi, the tour includes off-road drives and visits to remote villages. Over two nights, you’ll hike through terraced rice fields, bamboo forests, and visit local minority communities. Activities like bamboo rafting and exploring caves add variety, all with eco-friendly accommodations that blend into the landscape.
Reviewers highlight the guides’ friendliness and the chance to see real village life, making it great for active travelers who want a deeper connection to the land. The price of $223 covers transport, meals, and lodging, so it’s a full-package adventure.
Bottom Line: Excellent for seasoned trekkers eager to see authentic rural life and stunning scenery in a leisurely, immersive way.

4. From Hanoi to Pu Luong 3 Days Unforgettable Experiences

Rated 5/5, this 3-day tour balances trekking, cultural encounters, and relaxation in Pu Luong’s serene environment. It includes visits to local minorities, rice terraces, and nature reserves, along with stays in eco-friendly lodges. The trip emphasizes authentic interactions with villagers, giving you a real taste of life in northern Vietnam. It’s perfect for travelers who want to combine active days with peaceful evenings amidst nature.
For around $279, you get a well-rounded experience that blends scenic hiking with cultural exchange. Reviewers praise the friendly guides and the chance to learn about local traditions firsthand.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those seeking an authentic, multi-day escape into rural Vietnam with a comfortable touch.

5. 2 Days Pu Luong Offbeat Trekking Best for Mountain Lovers

Rated 5/5, this 2-day tour is a treasure for mountain trekking enthusiasts. It features long hikes, remote villages, and scenic vistas, including conquering Kho Muong, the largest cave in the area. The tour includes seamless transportation from Hanoi and a bamboo boat ride, all designed for those who want to push their limits and see untouched landscapes.
One reviewer called it “a fantastic trip to a still-underdeveloped mountain region,” appreciating the private atmosphere and challenging hikes. Meals are plentiful, with options for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
Bottom Line: Ideal for fit travelers who want a physically engaging experience with plenty of remarkable scenery.

6. Ninh Binh Jeep Adventure: Temples, Lotus, Fishing & Cooking

Rated 4.4/5, this 8.5-hour adventure by Jeep offers a different perspective on Ninh Binh’s attractions. The route includes visits to Thai Vi Temple, Bich Dong Pagoda, and lotus ponds, with the chance to try local fishing techniques. You can join a cooking class that ends with a delicious local meal, plus explore the rural Coi Khe village via scenic routes.
This tour is perfect for travelers wanting to see Ninh Binh from a relaxed, open-air perspective while enjoying cultural activities. The combination of scenery and local life makes it distinctive.
Bottom Line: Great for those who want a leisurely, culturally rich day with some adventure added.

7. Vietnam Northwest Cycling Adventure Tour 12 Days

If cycling is your thing, this 12-day journey takes you through 26 ethnic communities across Northern Vietnam. Covering Hanoi, Cuc Phuong, Mai Chau, and more, it’s designed for those ready for a physically demanding, culturally immersive trip.
While no reviews are provided, the itinerary promises a vibrant mix of landscapes and cultures, perfect for adventure travelers who want to see the country by bike.
Bottom Line: For committed cyclists wanting an in-depth exploration of northern Vietnam’s diverse communities, this is a memorable option.

8. Thanh Hóa: Pu Luong Surprising Cave Tour and Cooking Class

Rated unknown, this tour features a visit to one of the most beautiful caves in Pu Luong, up to 20 km long, plus a chance to learn traditional Vietnamese cooking. The cave is pristine and famous for its natural beauty. Afterward, you’ll enjoy a meal and experience local handicraft weaving.
Perfect for those interested in natural wonders and hands-on experiences, this tour combines adventure with cultural learning.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers wanting a blend of exploration and culinary discovery.

9. Puluong: Ancient stilt house, surprising cave Half-Day Tour

Rated unknown, this half-day tour includes visits to a beautiful cave and an ancient Thai stilt house. It’s perfect if you want a quick escape into nature without a long commitment. You’ll enjoy scenic views and bamboo rafting, making this suitable for families or those with limited time.
It emphasizes relaxation and cultural insight in a shorter timeframe.
Bottom Line: Recommended for a half-day outing that offers natural beauty and cultural flavor.

10. Pu Luong Cooking Class

Rated unknow, this experience is ideal for food lovers. In a setting with stunning mountain views, you’ll learn to prepare authentic Vietnamese dishes using natural ingredients, guided by a local chef. You’ll visit an ancient Thai stilt house and enjoy your own culinary creations.
Best suited for those who want hands-on culture through cuisine.
Bottom Line: Great for combining scenic surroundings with a practical skill—cooking Vietnamese food.

11. Pu Luong Biking: Surprising Cave & Survival Cooking Class

Rated unknown, this tour mixes biking, cave exploration, and cooking. It features a visit to the stunning cave, plus the chance to see local craft villages. The biking trail offers scenic views of northern mountains, and activities include bamboo rafting and a cooking class.
Ideal for active travelers who want to combine exercise with cultural experiences.
Bottom Line: Best for those who enjoy multi-activity days with a focus on outdoor adventure and local culture.

12. Pu Luong 3 Days Buffalo Cart Ride, Biking and Rafting Tour

Rated unknown, this 3-day experience offers a relaxing yet adventurous immersion. You’ll cycle through rice paddies, ride buffalo carts, and enjoy bamboo rafting. The trip includes comfortable transfers from Hanoi, meals, and visits to local homes—an authentic look at rural life.
Great for travelers seeking a gentle pace with plenty of scenic and cultural highlights.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a laid-back but active exploration of Pu Luong.

13. Hanoi: Pu Luong Nature 2-Day Trekking, End Trip in Ninh Binh

Rated unknown, this tour departs from Hanoi and ends in Ninh Binh. It features treks through waterfalls, caves, and rice fields, plus visits to Thai villages. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting to combine hiking with cultural exchange in a two-day format.
It offers a balanced mix of nature, culture, and physical activity.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers wanting a shorter, active journey that finishes with a cultural touch in Ninh Binh.

14. Hanoi: 4-day Tour Immersion in the Heart of the Villages of Northern Vietnam

Rated unknown, this extensive 4-day tour plunges you into village life in Mai Hich, Phu Hau, and Giao Phuc. Expect hands-on experiences with local craft techniques, traditional farming, and staying in homestays.
Ideal for travelers seeking deep cultural understanding and meaningful interactions.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want an immersive, multi-day experience focused on authentic village life.

How to Choose the Right Tour in Thanh Hoa

When selecting your experience, consider your budget, time frame, and interests. For cultural highlights and scenic landscapes, the From Ninh Binh: Bai Dinh, Hoa Lu, Trang An, Mua Cave offers excellent value and variety. If outdoor adventure is your priority, the Pu Luong Hiking 3 Days 2 Nights or the 2 Days Pu Luong Offbeat Trekking are fantastic choices. For those interested in wildlife, the Ninh Binh Wildlife Tour provides an authentic nature experience.

Booking early and choosing tours aligned with your fitness level and interests will ensure a more satisfying trip. Many tours include practical details like hotel pick-up, local meals, and expert guides, making your adventure both enjoyable and hassle-free.

Final Thoughts

Thanh Hoa offers a diverse array of experiences—from cultural explorations and scenic boat rides to challenging treks and hands-on cooking classes. If you’re after a full-day tour packed with highlights, the Bai Dinh and Trang An tour is hard to beat. For nature lovers, the multi-day Pu Luong hikes open up a side of Vietnam that few travelers witness.

Whether your style is active or relaxed, adventurous or cultural, Thanh Hoa’s tours promise authentic memories. We recommend booking early, especially for popular multi-day treks or small-group experiences. Now is the time to plan your trip and dive into the rich tapestry of Thanh Hoa’s landscapes and traditions.