The Ninh Binh Private Day Trip promises an unforgettable adventure for those seeking to explore the captivating landscapes of Tam Coc and Mua Cave. Priced reasonably, this tour includes private transportation, an English-speaking guide, and a delightful lunch, allowing visitors to enjoy the region’s natural beauty. From serene bamboo boat rides to the exhilarating climb to the Mua Cave viewpoint, the day’s activities promise to leave a lasting impression. However, the true allure of this excursion lies in the opportunity to discover the hidden gems that make Ninh Binh a must-visit destination.
Key Points
- This private day trip from Hanoi features a comprehensive tour of Ninh Binh, including visits to Tam Coc, Mua Cave, and the ancient capital of Hoa Lu.
- The tour includes a choice between a bamboo boat trip or village cycling, as well as a climb to the Mua Cave viewpoint.
- A delectable Vietnamese buffet lunch with regional specialties like goat meat, fish, and vegetarian options is included in the tour package.
- The tour is priced at $56.46 per person and includes private car transfers and an English-speaking guide.
- The tour is valid for 5 days with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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Tour Overview
The Ninh Binh Private Day Trip is a comprehensive tour that takes visitors on a journey through the ancient capital of Vietnam, Hoa Lu, and the breathtaking natural landscapes of Tam Coc and Mua Cave.
Priced from $56.46 per person, the tour includes private car transfers from Hanoi, an English-speaking guide, and a buffet lunch featuring Vietnamese cuisine.
Visitors can enjoy a bamboo boat trip, cycling around the village, and a challenging climb to Lying Dragon Mountain for panoramic views.
The tour is valid for 5 days, and bookings can be made with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Itinerary Highlights
The itinerary for the Ninh Binh Private Day Trip showcases the highlights of this comprehensive tour.
After morning pickup, travelers will explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu for 3 hours. Following a short break, they’ll enjoy a Vietnamese buffet lunch at a local restaurant.
The afternoon features two options: a 1.5-hour bamboo boat trip through Tam Coc’s scenic landscapes, and a 45-minute cycling tour around the village to immerse in local life.
Finally, visitors will climb nearly 500 steps to the Mua Cave viewpoint for panoramic vistas before returning to Hanoi.
Here are the key itinerary highlights:
- Visit Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam
- Savor a Vietnamese buffet lunch
- Choose between a Tam Coc boat trip or village cycling
- Climb to the Mua Cave viewpoint for stunning panoramas
Morning Activities
Pickup begins at 9:00 AM, kicking off the day’s adventures. Visitors will first explore Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam from 968-1010, for 3 hours. After a brief 15-20 minute break, the group will enjoy a Vietnamese buffet lunch featuring goat meat, fish, chicken, fried rice, and vegetarian options at a local restaurant.
| Morning Activities | Duration |
|---|---|
| Pickup | 9:00 AM |
| Visit Hoa Lu | 3 hours |
| Short Break | 15-20 min |
| Buffet Lunch | 3 hours |
The combination of historical exploration and authentic local cuisine sets the stage for the afternoon’s scenic adventures.
Lunch Experience
After the morning’s historical explorations, visitors sit down to a delectable Vietnamese buffet lunch.
The spread features a variety of local delicacies, including:
- Tender goat meat, expertly seasoned and prepared.
- Freshly caught fish, cooked to perfection.
- Aromatic fried rice and a selection of vibrant vegetarian options.
- Authentic Vietnamese dishes that showcase the region’s culinary traditions.
This hearty meal provides the energy needed for the afternoon’s activities, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the stunning Tam Coc landscape and the challenging Mua Cave climb.
Tam Coc Boat Trip
Visitors embark on a serene 1.5-hour boat excursion through the captivating Tam Coc waterways, often dubbed the "Ha Long Bay on land." From the comfort of traditional wooden boats, they glide past striking limestone cliffs, verdant rice paddies, and winding rivers, seeing the area’s breathtaking natural beauty. The boat trip offers a unique perspective, allowing travelers to witness the local way of life along the riverbanks.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1.5 hours |
| Scenery | Limestone cliffs, rice paddies, winding rivers |
| Boat Type | Traditional wooden boats |
| Experience | Immersive, serene, and picturesque |
Mua Cave Visit
Travelers make their way up nearly 500 steps to reach the top of Lying Dragon Mountain, rewarded with panoramic vistas of the captivating Tam Coc landscape.
At the summit, visitors can:
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Admire the breathtaking views of the winding rivers, lush rice fields, and towering limestone formations that make this region so unique.
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Capture stunning photographs from the observation deck that showcases the area’s natural beauty.
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Explore the Mua Cave, which features intricate rock formations and offers a glimpse into the region’s geological history.
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Discover the cultural significance of the site, learning about its importance in Vietnamese history and mythology.
Return to Hanoi
As the tour draws to a close, the group departs Mua Cave and begins the journey back to Hanoi.
The drive takes approximately 2-2.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Along the way, the guide may provide additional commentary on the surrounding landscapes and point out notable sights.
The tour is scheduled to arrive at the hotels in Hanoi Old Quarter or Hanoi Opera House between 7:00 PM and 7:30 PM. Guests can expect to be dropped off at their original pickup location, concluding the day’s activities.
The tour itinerary is designed to provide a comprehensive exploration of Ninh Binh’s highlights while allowing for a timely return to Hanoi.
Important Considerations
Certain important considerations should be kept in mind when booking this Ninh Binh Private Day Trip.
A $10 per person surcharge applies during the Lunar New Year holiday (January 28 – February 1, 2025).
The tour isn’t suitable for individuals over 250 lbs (113 kg), people over 230 lbs (104 kg), and babies under 1 year.
Guests should bring comfortable shoes, a camera, drinks, and comfortable clothes.
Plus, it’s recommended to contact the tour provider in advance regarding any dietary restrictions, as the buffet lunch includes a variety of Vietnamese cuisine.
- Surcharge during Lunar New Year
- Weight and age restrictions
- Recommended items to bring
- Dietary restrictions
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks on the Tour?
Yes, you can bring your own food and snacks on the tour. However, a buffet lunch is included in the tour, so bringing your own food may not be necessary. It’s best to check with the tour operator for any restrictions.
Is There Any Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
The tour has a set duration of 5 days that can’t be extended. However, travelers can customize their experience by adding extra activities or exploring the area independently before or after the scheduled tour.
Are There Any Special Discounts Available for Group Bookings?
The tour agency offers group discounts for bookings of 4 or more people. Guests can save up to 10% off the per-person rate by booking as a group. However, specific discount details aren’t provided in the tour overview.
Can I Request a Private Driver Instead of Shared Transportation?
Yes, you can request a private driver instead of shared transportation. Private transfers are available for an additional fee, allowing you to have a more personalized and flexible tour experience.
Is There a Maximum Group Size for This Tour?
The tour has a private transportation option, so there is no maximum group size. However, the tour is not suitable for individuals over 250 lbs or babies under 1 year old due to safety concerns.
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Recap
The Ninh Binh Private Day Trip offers an unforgettable experience exploring the stunning landscapes of Tam Coc and Mua Cave. With private car transfers, an English-speaking guide, and a delightful buffet lunch, you will enjoy a serene bamboo boat ride and a challenging climb to the breathtaking viewpoint at Mua Cave. This tour is a must-do for those seeking an immersive and picturesque adventure in Vietnam’s natural wonder.