Deluxe and Small Group Tour in Hoa Lu Tam Coc Mua Cave

Vietnam’s picturesque landscapes have long captivated travelers, and this deluxe small group tour to Hoa Lu, Tam Coc, and Mua Cave promises an immersive cultural experience. With a guided visit to the UNESCO-listed Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, an authentic Vietnamese lunch, and a serene boat ride showcasing stunning limestone karsts, this 12-hour adventure offers a well-rounded glimpse into the country’s natural and historical wonders. But the real highlight may lie in the rewarding hike to Mua Cave, where panoramic views await those willing to ascend the 500 steps. It’s an opportunity to witness Vietnam’s beauty up close and personal.

Key Points

• A deluxe small group tour in Ninh Binh province covering key attractions like Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Tam Coc boat ride, and Mua Cave hike.
• Priced from €50.77 per person with a duration of 12 hours and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Includes guided visits, an authentic Vietnamese lunch, and transportation from Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
• Offers panoramic views of limestone karsts, serene river landscapes, and immersion in Vietnam’s cultural and natural heritage.
• Recommended to book early and prepare for varying weather conditions with comfortable footwear for the hiking and walking activities.

Tour Overview

This deluxe small group tour in Hoa Lu, Tam Coc, and Mua Cave is priced from €50.77 per person and lasts 12 hours.

Guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Pickup is included from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, with guests expected to be ready at their hotel lobby.

The maximum group size is 17-20 people. The tour includes a limousine bus transfer to and from Ninh Binh Province, guided visits to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital and Mua Cave, a scenic boat ride in Tam Coc, and a local Vietnamese lunch.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a limousine bus transfer from Hanoi to Ninh Binh Province in the morning.

Guests will visit the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, enjoying a guided tour, photo stops, and sightseeing for around an hour.

Lunch will feature authentic Vietnamese cuisine at a local restaurant.

The highlight of the day is a 2-hour boat ride at Tam Coc, allowing guests to cruise along the Ngo Dong River and explore caves and limestone karsts.

The tour then moves to Mua Cave, where guests will hike 500 steps for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape in a guided tour lasting approximately an hour.

Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

Visiting the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich history. This UNESCO World Heritage site was the political center of the country during the Dinh and Le dynasties in the 10th and 11th centuries. Guests will explore the remaining temples and ruins, learning about the significance of this former capital.

Feature	Description
Guided Tour	Discover the historical importance of temples and monuments
Photo Stops	Capture the architectural beauty and scenic vistas
Sightseeing	Wander the grounds and imagine life during the ancient dynasties
Duration	Approximately 1 hour at the ancient capital
Significance	Understand Vietnam’s illustrious past as the political heart of the nation

Authentic Vietnamese Lunch

After exploring the historic Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, the tour continues with an authentic Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant.

The meal features:

1. Traditional Vietnamese dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.
2. A vibrant array of flavors, from savory to sweet.
3. An opportunity to immerse in the culinary culture of the region.

The lunchtime respite provides a chance to recharge and refuel before the next leg of the journey – the serene boat ride along the Ngo Dong River in Tam Coc.

With the delicious local cuisine and tranquil setting, this midday meal is a highlight of the overall tour experience.

Tam Coc Boat Ride

Following the tranquil Vietnamese lunch, guests embark on a serene boat ride along the Ngo Dong River in Tam Coc.

This 2-hour cruise offers a unique perspective of the region’s stunning limestone karsts, often referred to as "Halong Bay on Land." Guests drift peacefully through the caves and marvel at the verdant surroundings.

The boat ride provides a peaceful respite from the bustling city and allows travelers to enjoy the region’s natural beauty.

This experience is a highlight of the tour, offering a chance to witness the breathtaking landscape up close and connect with the serene environment.

Mua Cave Exploration

Guests then make their way to Mua Cave, where they embark on a guided tour and hike up 500 steps to reach the summit. The reward at the top is breathtaking vistas of the surrounding limestone karsts and river below.

The Mua Cave experience offers three key highlights:

1. Guided tour through the cave’s interior chambers.
2. Scenic hike up 500 steps for panoramic views.
3. Photo opportunities capturing the stunning landscapes.

This portion of the tour allows guests to enjoy the natural beauty of Ninh Binh province and appreciate the region’s dramatic geography.

Included Experiences

The tour’s included experiences offer guests a well-rounded exploration of Ninh Binh’s renowned attractions.

In Hoa Lu, the ancient capital, visitors enjoy a guided tour, photo stops, and sightseeing at historic temples.

During the tranquil boat ride at Tam Coc, often dubbed "Halong Bay on Land", guests can marvel at the stunning limestone karsts and caves.

The highlight is the guided hike up the 500 steps of Mua Cave, rewarding adventurers with breathtaking panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape.

Throughout the day, guests savor an authentic Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant.

The meticulously planned itinerary ensures an immersive and memorable experience.

Additional Information

Along With the included experiences, there are a few additional considerations for guests.

Personal expenses and tips for guides and drivers, while customary in Vietnam, aren’t covered in the tour price.

Plus, guests should be aware that the provided itinerary is subject to change, so it’s advisable to check availability for specific dates and times.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food on the Tour?

No, outside food is generally not permitted on the tour. The package includes a delicious local lunch, so bringing your own food is unnecessary. Please inform the tour operator in advance of any dietary restrictions.

What Type of Transportation Is Used for the Tour?

The tour uses a limousine bus for transportation. The itinerary includes a comfortable limousine transfer from Hanoi to Ninh Binh Province and back again at the end of the tour.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

The tour does not provide any specific discounts for children or seniors. The price is a flat rate of €50.77 per person, regardless of age. However, the small group size ensures an intimate and personalized experience for all participants.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Fit My Preferences?

While the tour itinerary is set, guests can request modifications to fit their preferences. The tour operator may accommodate special requests, subject to availability and additional costs.

What Should I Bring to Make the Most of the Tour Experience?

To make the most of the tour experience, it’s recommended to bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a small backpack for personal items. Participants should also bring local currency for optional purchases or tips.

Recap

This deluxe small group tour offers an immersive cultural experience in Vietnam’s Hoa Lu, Tam Coc, and Mua Cave regions. Visitors will explore the UNESCO-listed Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, enjoy an authentic Vietnamese lunch, and take a serene boat ride along the Ngo Dong River. The tour culminates with a rewarding hike up 500 steps to Mua Cave for panoramic views. With a maximum group size of 17-20, travelers can expect an intimate and personalized experience.