Nestled in the heart of Vietnam’s picturesque Hoa Binh province, Ngoi Hoa Bay and Dragon Eyed Lake offer a captivating blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. This one-day excursion from Hanoi promises an unforgettable experience, immersing visitors in the serene landscapes and cultural traditions of the region. With stand-up paddleboarding, swimming, and a traditional Muong lunch, this tour provides a unique opportunity to disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with the wonders of the great outdoors. As the adventure unfolds, travelers can’t help but wonder what other delights await them in this remarkable corner of Vietnam.
Key Points
- One-day excursion from Hanoi for stand-up paddleboarding, swimming, and hiking in the scenic Ngoi Hoa Bay and Dragon Eyed Lake.
- Private group experience with English-speaking guide, priced at €193.08 per person, including transportation, equipment, and traditional Muong lunch.
- Paddleboarding on Hoa Binh Lake for 3 hours, accompanied by a support boat for safety and assistance.
- Option to trek to the turquoise waters of Dragon Eyed Lake for swimming.
- Pickup at 7 AM from Hanoi hotel, with 2.5-hour transfer to Ngoi Hoa Bay, and return by 6:30 PM.
Tour Overview
The SUP & Swim Adventure Tour takes guests on a day-long excursion to the stunning Ngoi Hoa Bay and Dragon Eyed Lake.
Priced at €193.08 per person, the tour offers a private group experience lasting one day. Departing from Hanoi, the tour includes pickup, transfer, and return.
Highlights include stand-up paddleboarding, swimming in turquoise waters, scenic hiking, and a traditional Muong ethnic lunch.
The tour also provides essential equipment like life vests and dry bags. With an English-speaking guide, the experience caters to both English and Vietnamese speakers.
Guests can choose between trekking to Dragon Eyed Lake or continuing their paddleboard exploration of Hoa Binh Lake.
Itinerary Highlights
The tour kicks off with a pickup from the hotel in Hanoi at 7:00 AM, followed by a 2.5-hour transfer to the picturesque Ngoi Hoa Bay.
Upon arrival, guests will receive basic paddle skill instruction at the Ngoi Hoa Wharf before embarking on a boat ride and enjoying a traditional Muong-style lunch.
In the afternoon, they can choose between:
- Trekking 20 minutes to the serene Dragon Eyed Lake for a refreshing swim
- Continuing their stand-up paddleboarding adventure to explore the expansive Hoa Binh Lake
At 3:30 PM, the tour group will return to the Ngoi Hoa Wharf by boat, before arriving back in Hanoi by 6:30 PM.
Activities Included
As part of this adventure tour, guests can look forward to an array of engaging activities.
The tour includes 3 hours of stand-up paddleboarding on the tranquil waters of Hoa Binh Lake. Visitors will also have the opportunity to swim in the turquoise waters of Dragon Eyed Lake after a short hike.
Throughout the day, guests can enjoy scenic views and take breaks at a floating bar to savor snacks.
With the support boat accompanying the paddlers, this tour provides a well-rounded experience blending outdoor adventure, culture, and natural beauty.
Inclusions
This tour includes a private transfer between Hanoi and Ngoi Hoa Bay.
Participants will be provided with stand-up paddleboards, life jackets, and dry bags for the 3-hour paddling session. A support boat will accompany the group while they explore the scenic waterways.
An English-speaking guide will be on hand to provide instructions and facilitate the experience. Lunch featuring Muong ethnic cuisine, drinking water, sightseeing tickets, travel insurance, snacks, beer, and soft drinks are also included.
The tour covers:
- Private transfer
- SUP equipment
- Support boat
- English-speaking guide
- Muong ethnic lunch
Important Information
Not surprisingly, this tour isn’t suitable for children under 6 or pregnant women.
Guests should bring their passport or ID, sun hat, change of clothes, sunscreen, comfortable clothing, beachwear, insect repellent, sports shoes, water shoes, outdoor clothing, and personal medication.
Pets, except assistance dogs, aren’t allowed. Smoking in the vehicle, alcohol and drugs, and littering are also prohibited.
Dietary requirements, such as vegetarian meals, should be communicated in advance.
Pickup and Transfer
At 7:00 AM, the tour begins with a pickup from the hotel and a transfer to Ngoi Hoa Bay, located approximately 2.5 hours away from Hanoi.
The transfer is included in the tour package, providing a convenient and hassle-free experience. During the journey, the tour guide will share information about the region and prepare guests for the upcoming activities.
The transfer includes:
- Private transportation
- Comfortable and air-conditioned vehicle
- Scenic views of the Vietnamese countryside
- Opportunity to rest and relax before the adventure
Arrival at Ngoi Hoa Wharf by 10:30 AM, ready for the stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) instruction.
Paddle Boarding Experience
Arriving at Ngoi Hoa Wharf, guests receive a basic paddle skill instruction from the experienced tour guide.
They then hop on their stand-up paddleboards and spend the next three hours exploring the tranquil waters of Hoa Binh Lake.
Along the way, they’re accompanied by a support boat, ensuring their safety and providing assistance if needed.
The paddleboarding experience offers stunning views of the surrounding limestone cliffs and lush greenery.
Guests can choose to either continue paddling to further explore the lake or opt to trek to the nearby Dragon Eyed Lake for a refreshing swim in its turquoise waters.
Dining and Cuisine
After the invigorating paddleboarding experience, guests embark on a boat ride to enjoy a traditional Muong ethnic cuisine lunch.
The lunch features a delectable spread of local dishes, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of the region.
The menu may include:
- Steamed rice
- Grilled fish
- Stir-fried vegetables
- Herb-infused chicken
- Sticky rice dessert
The Muong ethnic group is known for their unique flavors, utilizing fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and traditional cooking methods.
This authentic dining experience allows travelers to enjoy the cultural traditions of the Ngoi Hoa Bay region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Available on Weekends?
The tour is likely available on weekends, as it is a 1-day private group experience without any mention of weekday-only scheduling. The company likely offers it 7 days a week to accommodate different traveler schedules.
How Challenging Is the Paddleboarding for Beginners?
For beginners, the paddleboarding is relatively easy and straightforward. The tour includes basic instruction, a support boat, and sheltered water conditions, making it suitable for those new to the activity.
Can the Tour Be Customized for a Private Group?
Yes, the tour can be customized for a private group. The tour provider offers a private group experience, allowing for flexibility to tailor the itinerary and activities to the group’s preferences.
What Is the Weather Like During the Tour Season?
The tour season typically features warm, sunny conditions. Temperatures range from mild in the mornings to hot in the afternoons. Light rain showers may occasionally occur, but generally, the weather is ideal for outdoor activities like swimming and paddleboarding.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Hiking Portion?
The tour has an age restriction for the hiking portion – it’s not suitable for children under 6. Pregnant women are also advised against the hiking activity. The tour is designed for adventurous adults and older children.
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Recap
This SUP and swim adventure tour offers a chance to take in the natural beauty of Ngoi Hoa Bay and Dragon Eyed Lake. With expert guidance, travelers can enjoy stand-up paddleboarding, swimming in the turquoise waters, and a traditional Muong lunch, making it a well-rounded experience blending outdoor activities, cultural exploration, and stunning scenery.