Ninh Binh, a picturesque region just south of Hanoi, boasts some of Vietnam’s most breathtaking natural landscapes. This popular day trip offers travelers the chance to explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, float through the serene Tam Coc valley, and cycle past towering limestone formations – all with the convenience of round-trip transportation and an expert guide. Whether you’re marveling at the ‘Ha Long Bay on land’ or discovering the hidden gems of this stunning destination, this comprehensive tour promises an immersive experience that captures the essence of Ninh Binh’s natural wonders.
Key Points
- This day trip from Hanoi to Ninh Binh showcases the region’s natural wonders, including the Hoa Lu ancient capital, Tam Coc valley, and Mua Cave.
- Highlights include a boat ride through the ‘Ha Long Bay on land’ Tam Coc river and a 30-minute cycling adventure through scenic rice fields and limestone karsts.
- The tour includes round-trip transportation in a luxurious limousine bus, an English-speaking guide, and a traditional Vietnamese lunch.
- Entrance fees, WiFi, and bottled water are included, but drinks during lunch and tips for the guide and driver are excluded.
- The tour accommodates up to 25 travelers and has an optional $10 per person surcharge for Lunar New Year holiday dates.
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Tour Overview
This tour offers visitors the opportunity to explore the natural wonders of Vietnam’s Ninh Binh Province, including the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, the breathtaking Tam Coc valley, and the captivating Mua Cave.
Guests will be transported from Hanoi to Ninh Binh in a luxurious limousine bus, ensuring a comfortable journey.
Once there, they’ll discover the historical significance of Hoa Lu and cycle through the surrounding villages.
The highlight of the tour is the boat ride through the Tam Coc valley, where visitors can admire the stunning limestone formations and lush greenery.
With an experienced guide and all-inclusive features, this day trip provides an immersive and unforgettable experience in one of Vietnam’s most picturesque regions.
Natural Wonders of Ninh Binh
The ancient capital of Hoa Lu and the breathtaking Tam Coc valley are just two of the natural wonders awaiting visitors in Vietnam’s Ninh Binh Province.
Towering limestone formations, serene rivers, and lush greenery create a picturesque backdrop for this day trip from Hanoi.
Visitors will:
- Marvel at the dramatic karst landscapes and pagodas of the former imperial capital, Hoa Lu
- Glide down the Tam Coc river, nicknamed ‘the Ha Long Bay on land,’ surrounded by soaring cliffs
- Explore the serene villages by bicycle, seeing the local culture
- Climb the 500 steps to the top of Mua Cave for panoramic vistas over the entire region
Soak in the tranquil, untouched beauty of this stunning Northern Vietnamese province.
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
At the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, visitors can marvel at the dramatic karst landscapes and well-preserved pagodas that evoke the grandeur of Vietnam’s imperial past. Wandering through the historic site, they can explore the remnants of the Dinh and Le Dynasties’ royal palaces and temples. The standout features of Hoa Lu include:
Dinh Tien Hoang Temple | Le Dai Hanh Temple |
---|---|
Dedicated to the founder of the Dinh Dynasty | Dedicated to the founder of the Le Dynasty |
Impressive stone architecture and carvings | Ornate roofs and intricate details |
Offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains | Provides a glimpse into Vietnam’s regal heritage |
This ancient capital offers a captivating window into Vietnam’s rich history and cultural traditions.
Cycling and Boat Adventure
After exploring the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, visitors embark on a cycling adventure through the picturesque local villages surrounding Tam Coc.
Equipped with bicycles, they pedal past:
- Emerald rice fields
- Limestone karsts
- Serene waterways
Immersing themselves in the tranquil rural landscape. The cycling activity lasts approximately 30 minutes, providing a fun and free way to experience the area’s natural beauty.
Following the bike ride, guests board traditional wooden boats and float down the Tam Coc valley, marveling at the dramatic limestone cliffs that rise dramatically from the water. This serene boat ride offers a unique perspective on the region’s stunning scenery.
Inclusions and Experiences
For this day trip, visitors are provided with round-trip transportation in a luxurious limousine bus, complete with an experienced driver and English-speaking guide. Complimentary high-speed WiFi and bottled water ensure a comfortable journey from Hanoi to Ninh Binh’s natural wonders.
Upon arrival, guests savor a traditional Vietnamese lunch before embarking on the day’s activities. These include a boat ride through the stunning Tam Coc valley, where visitors can admire the striking limestone formations and serene waterways. Adventurous travelers also have the opportunity to explore the area by bicycle, experiencing the local villages and landscapes.
Entrance fees to all attractions are included, ensuring a hassle-free and comprehensive exploration of Ninh Binh’s natural beauty.
Exclusions and Surcharges
While the day trip includes many amenities, it’s important to be aware of certain exclusions and surcharges.
Exclusions and surcharges to keep in mind are:
- Drinks during the included lunch
- Tips for the guide and driver
- $10 per person surcharge for Lunar New Year holiday from January 28th to February 1st, 2025
Additionally:
- Non-wheelchair accessible
- Bicycles not suitable for children under 2 years old
Additional Tour Details
The day trip offers a mix of activities and sightseeing, allowing visitors to experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Ninh Binh Province.
Customers can choose to participate in a cycling activity for around 30 minutes, though this isn’t a professional cycling tour and can be skipped if unable. It’s important to note that the bicycles provided aren’t suitable for children under 2 years old.
Plus, visitors are advised not to tip if asked by locals, as this may be a scam.
The tour is confirmed at the time of booking, but it’s not wheelchair accessible.
Pickup is from the Hanoi Old Quarter or Opera House between 7-7:50 AM, with a maximum of 25 travelers per group.
Tour Logistics and Capacity
This day trip from Hanoi to Ninh Binh accommodates up to 25 travelers, providing a personalized and intimate group experience.
The tour includes transportation via a luxurious limousine bus with an experienced driver and English-speaking guide, ensuring a comfortable and informative journey.
Guests can expect:
- Convenient pick-up from Hanoi’s Old Quarter or Opera House between 7-7:50 AM
- Free onboard WiFi and bottled water to stay hydrated
- Confirmation provided at the time of booking, though the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible
- A surcharge of $10 per person on Lunar New Year holidays (January 28 – February 1, 2025)
- The option to skip the 30-minute cycling activity if unable to participate.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Bicycle for the Cycling Activity?
No, customers cannot bring their own bicycles for the cycling activity. The tour provides bicycles that are suitable for the activity, and bringing personal bicycles is not allowed. Customers can enjoy the 30-minute cycling experience using the provided bikes.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Boat Ride?
The tour has no minimum age requirement for the boat ride in Tam Coc valley. Children of all ages can participate, but parents should supervise young kids closely during the activity.
Do I Need to Bring My Own Life Jacket for the Boat Ride?
The tour provider supplies life jackets for the boat ride, so you don’t need to bring your own. Just focus on enjoying the scenic Tam Coc valley and let the staff handle the safety equipment.
Can I Take Photos During the Boat Ride?
Absolutely, you can take photos during the boat ride. The serene Tam Coc valley offers breathtaking scenery, making it an ideal spot for capturing memorable photos. Just be mindful of not disrupting the tranquility of the experience.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
Unfortunately, the tour does not offer an option to extend the duration. The itinerary is fixed, and the day trip is designed to cover the key sights in Ninh Binh within the allotted time. Extending the tour would require booking a separate, customized excursion.
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Recap
Enjoy the natural splendor of Ninh Binh on this captivating day trip from Hanoi.
Witness the towering limestone formations, serene rivers, and lush landscapes, including the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and the breathtaking Tam Coc valley.
Enjoy a boat ride and a cycling adventure through this picturesque region, with all transportation and entrance fees included for a comprehensive and unforgettable experience.