Ninh Binh – Hoa Lu – Trang an Boating – Mua Cave 1 Day Tour

Ninh Binh, a province in northern Vietnam, is home to a captivating blend of historical sites and natural wonders. The Ninh Binh – Hoa Lu – Trang An Boating – Mua Cave 1 Day Tour offers visitors a chance to enjoy this remarkable region. From exploring the ancient Hoa Lu Citadel to trekking up Mua Cave for panoramic vistas, the tour promises an unforgettable experience. As guests glide through the serene Trang An Grottoes, they’ll witness the province’s breathtaking landscapes firsthand. Whether you’re a history buff or a nature lover, this comprehensive tour is sure to leave you with lasting memories of Ninh Binh’s enchanting allure.

Key Points

• A 1-day tour from Hanoi that visits Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel, Mua Cave trekking, and a boat trip through the Trang An Grottoes.
• The tour is priced at $53.74 per person and includes round-trip transportation, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees, and lunch.
• The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and convenient pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
• Highlights of the tour include exploring the 17th-century Hoa Lu Citadel, trekking to the panoramic views of Mua Cave, and a relaxing boat ride through the Trang An Grottoes.
• The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, with a 120km bus journey to and from Ninh Binh Province, allowing for scenic countryside views.

Tour Overview

This 1-day Ninh Binh – Hoa Lu – Trang An tour offers a comprehensive experience, exploring the historical and natural wonders of the region.

Priced from $53.74 per person, the tour lasts a full day and includes round-trip transportation from Hanoi, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees, and lunch.

Highlights include visiting the 17th-century Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel, trekking to Mua Cave for panoramic views, and taking a boat trip through the scenic Trang An Grottoes.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, this tour provides a convenient and immersive way to discover the best of Ninh Binh.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a pickup from 68 P. Đình Tiên Hoàng in Ninh Binh Province, where guests board a 120km bus journey departing at 07:30 – 08:15.

Upon arrival at 10:30, they visit the Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel and the 17th-century King Dinh Temple.

Next, they trek to Mua Cave for panoramic views of the rice valley.

Lunch featuring Vietnamese cuisine is served at a bungalow.

In the afternoon, guests embark on a boat trip through the scenic Trang An Grottoes.

The tour wraps up with a return to Hanoi between 17:00 – 19:30, with drop-off at the hotel or guests’ accommodation.

Pickup Location

The tour begins with pickup from 68 P. Đình Tiên Hoàng in Ninh Binh Province. This central location provides a convenient starting point for the day’s adventures.

Guests are picked up between 7:30 and 8:15 AM, ensuring an early start to make the most of the day. From here, the group embarks on a 120km bus journey towards the historic sights of Hoa Lu and the stunning landscapes of Trang An.

The bus ride offers scenic views along the way, allowing travelers to relax and prepare for the activities ahead. With a knowledgeable English-speaking guide on hand, the day’s itinerary is smoothly executed from this strategic pickup location.

Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel

Upon arriving at the Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel, visitors are immediately immersed in the captivating history of this 17th-century site.

Once the capital of Vietnam, the ancient citadel’s crumbling walls and remnants of royal palaces and temples offer a glimpse into the country’s dynastic past.

Guests can explore the King Dinh Temple, which honors the founder of the Dinh Dynasty, and marvel at the impressive architecture that has withstood the test of time.

The site’s tranquil atmosphere and serene natural surroundings make it a truly unique and enriching experience for those seeking to connect with Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage.

Mua Cave Trekking

After visiting the Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel, the tour moves on to the Mua Cave, where guests can embark on an exhilarating trekking adventure. This 300-meter climb up the steep limestone steps offers panoramic views of the stunning rice valley below. The trek is moderately challenging, but the reward is well worth the effort.

Feature	Description
Duration	Approximately 45 minutes
Difficulty	Moderate, with steep steps
Highlights	Breathtaking 360-degree vistas
Facilities	Restrooms and refreshments available

The trek to Mua Cave is a must-do activity, providing visitors with a unique perspective of the Ninh Binh landscape and an opportunity to enjoy the region’s natural beauty.

Lunch at Bungalow

Following the exhilarating trek up Mua Cave, the tour group arrives at a serene bungalow nestled amidst the lush rice paddies.

Here, they’re treated to a traditional Vietnamese lunch, savoring the flavors of the region. The menu features a variety of dishes, including steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, and grilled fish or meat, all freshly prepared using local ingredients.

The tranquil setting provides a welcome respite from the morning’s activities, allowing the travelers to recharge and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.

As they dine, they can admire the picturesque views of the surrounding countryside, further enhancing the authentic cultural experience.

Trang An Boat Trip

Departing the serene bungalow, the tour group boards a small boat and embarks on a tranquil journey through the Trang An Grottoes.

Gliding across the calm waters, they marvel at the towering limestone cliffs and lush, verdant landscapes that surround them. The guide provides insightful commentary, sharing the history and cultural significance of this scenic destination.

Guests have the opportunity to soak in the serene atmosphere, snapping photographs of the breathtaking vistas. The boat navigates through a series of interconnected caves, revealing hidden caves and grottoes that evoke a sense of wonder and exploration.

This relaxing boat trip offers a perfect complement to the day’s earlier adventures, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of Ninh Binh.

Return to Hanoi

As the boat glides back to the shore, the tour group prepares to return to Hanoi.

The 120km bus journey back to the capital takes approximately 1.5 hours. Along the way, passengers can enjoy the scenic countryside views through the window. The tour guide provides insights and information about the sights.

Upon arrival in Hanoi, the group is dropped off at their hotels in the Old Quarter.

The day-long excursion to Ninh Binh, Hoa Lu, Trang An, and Mua Cave has provided a comprehensive taste of the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Tired but satisfied, the travelers can reflect on the memorable experiences of the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food on the Tour?

Guests are generally allowed to bring their own food on the tour, but it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand. They may have specific policies or meal plans included that should be considered.

Is the Tour Suitable for Families With Young Children?

The tour is suitable for families with young children. It includes activities like boat trips and cave exploration that are generally engaging for kids. The tour also provides lunch, making it convenient for families. However, the long travel times may be tiring for young children.

Are There Any Fitness Requirements for the Mua Cave Trek?

The Mua Cave trek requires moderate fitness and mobility. While it’s not overly strenuous, visitors should be able to navigate uneven terrain and steep steps. Those with limited mobility may find the trek challenging.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?

The tour itinerary can be customized to suit individual preferences. Travelers can discuss their interests with the tour operator and they’ll work to accommodate any reasonable requests within the tour’s scope and duration.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no strict dress code for this tour. Travelers should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes suitable for light walking and boat rides. Light layers are recommended to adjust to changing weather conditions.

Recap

This immersive 1-day tour offers a fantastic opportunity to explore Ninh Binh’s rich history and stunning landscapes. Guests will visit the ancient Hoa Lu Citadel, trek to the Mua Cave, and enjoy a serene boat trip through the picturesque Trang An Grottoes. With round-trip transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and a delicious lunch, this tour provides an unforgettable experience and the chance to capture breathtaking photographs of Vietnam’s captivating scenery.