The Ninh Binh Full Day tour offers a chance to take in Vietnam’s rich history and stunning natural landscapes. Visitors can explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, drift through the serene Tam Coc region, and challenge themselves with a hike to the top of Mua Cave. This comprehensive day trip provides a well-rounded experience that showcases the diverse cultural and geographic wonders of the Ninh Binh province. Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply seeking an adventure, this tour promises to leave a lasting impression. But to truly understand the allure of this destination, one must…
Key Points
- This full-day tour provides an immersive experience exploring the historic Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, scenic Tam Coc river, and challenging Mua Cave hike in Ninh Binh.
- The tour is priced at €47.17 per person and includes pickup, transportation, lunch, entrance fees, and an English-speaking guide, lasting approximately 10 hours.
- Visitors can enjoy a 1.5-hour boat cruise on the Tam Coc river, surrounded by limestone cliffs and lush paddy fields, showcasing the region’s natural beauty.
- The 1.5-hour Mua Cave hike to the summit of Lying Dragon Mountain offers 360-degree panoramic views of the karst landscapes in Ninh Binh.
- The tour includes a 1-hour lunch at a local restaurant featuring a variety of Vietnamese dishes, complementing the cultural and natural experiences.
It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The full-day tour of Ninh Binh is priced at €47.17 per person and lasts approximately 10 hours.
The tour offers free cancellation with a full refund if cancelled up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can reserve their spot now and pay later.
The tour includes pickup from Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, and transportation via limousine throughout the day. An English-speaking live guide accompanies the group.
Lunch at a local restaurant, all entrance fees, and tips are included. However, personal expenses are excluded.
A surcharge of €10 per person applies during the Lunar New Year holiday from January 28 to February 1, 2025.
Itinerary and Activities
The tour begins with pickup from Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, and travels to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, which takes around 1 hour. Visitors will spend 1 hour exploring the historical site, learning about the Dinh, Le, and Ly dynasties that ruled Vietnam from 968-1010. After, the group will enjoy a 1-hour lunch at a local restaurant, sampling a variety of Vietnamese dishes, including vegetarian options.
| Activity | Duration |
|---|---|
| Hoa Lu Visit | 1 hour |
| Lunch at Local Restaurant | 1 hour |
| Tam Coc Boat Cruise | 1.5 hours |
| Mua Cave Hike | 1.5 hours |
| Travel to/from Hanoi | 2.5 hours |
The tour then continues with a 1.5-hour boat cruise along the scenic Tam Coc river, followed by a 1.5-hour hike up to the summit of Mua Cave for breathtaking 360-degree views. Finally, the group will return to Hanoi, which takes approximately 2.5 hours.
Transportation and Guide
How does the transportation and guide work for this tour?
Limousine transport is provided for the entire day trip, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience.
An English-speaking live tour guide accompanies the group, sharing insights and information throughout the journey.
The pickup and drop-off service is available within the Hanoi Old Quarter, making it easy for participants to join the tour.
With the included transportation and knowledgeable guide, travelers can sit back, relax, and fully enjoy the cultural and natural wonders of Ninh Binh without worrying about logistical details.
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
After being transported by limousine, the first stop on the Ninh Binh tour is Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam from 968 to 1010 AD. Visitors will have an hour to explore the historic site and learn about the Dinh, Le, and Ly dynasties that ruled during this period.
| Dynasty | Years Ruled | Accomplishments |
|---|---|---|
| Dinh | 968-979 | Unified Vietnam |
| Le | 980-1009 | Expanded Empire |
| Ly | 1009-1225 | Cultural Golden Age |
Visitors can wander through the well-preserved temples and palaces, imagining the grandeur of Vietnam’s first capital city.
Tam Coc Boat Cruise
Following the tour of Hoa Lu, the next activity on the Ninh Binh itinerary is the Tam Coc boat cruise.
This 1.5-hour scenic boat ride takes visitors through the picturesque Tam Coc region, often referred to as "Halong Bay on land." The boat meanders along the Ngo Dong River, surrounded by limestone cliffs, lush paddy fields, and tranquil caves.
It’s a serene and beautiful experience, with plenty of opportunities to take in the breathtaking natural landscapes. The boat cruise is a highlight of the Ninh Binh tour, allowing visitors to enjoy the region’s stunning and unique scenery.
Mua Cave Hike
The Mua Cave hike is a thrilling and scenic highlight of the Ninh Binh tour. Visitors will trek nearly 500 stairs to the summit of Lying Dragon Mountain, where they’ll be rewarded with 360-degree panoramic views of the region’s iconic karst landscapes. The hike takes around 1.5 hours to complete and offers a unique perspective on the natural beauty of Ninh Binh.
| Hike Details | |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1.5 hours |
| Stairs | Nearly 500 |
| Viewpoint | 360-degree panoramic |
| Scenery | Karst landscapes, river, paddy fields |
The Mua Cave hike is a must-do activity for visitors seeking an adventurous and visually stunning experience in Ninh Binh.
Dining and Cuisine
A delightful culinary experience awaits visitors on the Ninh Binh tour. The tour includes a 1-hour lunch at a local restaurant, featuring a variety of Vietnamese dishes.
Guests can expect a spread of classic Vietnamese cuisine, including vegetarian options. The lunch provides a chance to refuel and sample the region’s flavors after the morning’s activities.
With a diverse menu and ample time to enjoy the meal, the lunch break offers a well-rounded cultural experience alongside the tour’s sightseeing highlights.
Whether seeking an authentic taste of Vietnam or accommodating dietary preferences, the Ninh Binh tour delivers a satisfying dining experience.
Important Information
Along With the culinary delights, the Ninh Binh tour provides important details travelers should know.
The full-day tour is priced at €47.17 per person and lasts 10 hours. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the tour allows for reserving a spot without paying upfront.
The tour includes pickup and drop-off, all entrance fees, a buffet lunch, and an English-speaking guide. However, a surcharge of $10 per person applies during the Lunar New Year holiday.
With historic sites, scenic beauty, and breathtaking views, this comprehensive tour offers an immersive experience in Ninh Binh.
Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?
The tour doesn’t offer customization options. It follows a fixed itinerary, but travelers can still explore the sites at their own pace within the scheduled time slots.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks During the Tour?
Guests can bring their own snacks and water during the tour, but the tour package includes a buffet lunch at a local restaurant. The tour provider recommends relying on the included meals and beverages for the best experience.
Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Mua Cave Hike?
You don’t need any special equipment for the Mua Cave hike, but sturdy shoes and a water bottle are recommended. The hike includes nearly 500 stairs to the summit, so proper footwear is important.
Can I Book This Tour if I Have Dietary Restrictions?
Yes, the tour offers vegetarian options for lunch, so those with dietary restrictions can book this tour. The tour provider aims to accommodate various dietary needs during the included meal.
What Is the Policy for Children on This Tour?
Children are welcome on this tour. Infants under 3 years old are free. Kids 3-11 years old get a discounted rate. There’s no minimum age, so families with young children can participate.
Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby
- From Hanoi:Hoa Lu Trang an Hang Mua 1 Day Group or Private
- HANOI: HOA LU – TAM COC – MUA CAVE 1 DAY TRIP BY LIMOUSINE
- Ninh Binh – Trang an – Mua Cave Day Trip With All-Inclusive
- Hanoi Airport Transfer to Ninh Binh (And Vice Versa)
- Group Tour: Hoa Lu – Trang An – Mua Cave From Ha Noi
- Friendly Travel: Hoa Lu/ Trang An/ Mua Cave – Limousine Car
- Ninh Binh Day Trip From Hanoi
- HA NOI: HOA LU – TRANG AN – MUA CAVE DAY TRIP BY LIMOUSINE
- Luxury Tour Bai Dinh-Trang An-Mua Cave Limo Bus-Buffet Lunch
- Hoa Lu, Tam Coc, Mua Caves Full-Day: Biking, Boating, Lunch
- Bai Dinh Pagoda, Trang An Boat Trip and Mua Caves From Hanoi
- Ninh Binh – Hoa Lu – Trang an Boating – Mua Cave 1 Day Tour
- Hanoi-Ninh Binh Full Day Tour: Hoa Lu, Trang An, Mua Cave
- Hanoi: Hoa Lu, Tam Coc and Mua Cave Limo Bus Tour With Lunch
- Ninh Binh: Hoa Lu, Trang an & Mua Caves Tour With Boat Ride
Recap
The Ninh Binh Full Day tour provides a comprehensive cultural and natural experience. Visitors explore the historic Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, enjoy a serene boat cruise through Tam Coc, and challenge themselves with a hike to the summit of Mua Cave. With a knowledgeable guide and efficient transportation, this tour offers an unforgettable glimpse into the beauty and history of this captivating region.