Ninh Binh Full Day Hoa Lu to Mua Cave with Cycling

Hanoi , Vietnam

Ninh Binh Full Day Hoa Lu to Mua Cave with Cycling

Active

12h

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Ninh Bình province is home to a magnificent trio of destinations, blending history with stunning natural beauty. Hoa Lư, the ancient capital, stands as a sacred historical site, featuring temples dedicated to Vietnam's early emperors amidst a tranquil valley of limestone mountains. Nearby, Tam Cốc—often called "Ha Long Bay on land"—offers a peaceful journey through rice paddies and three natural caves, navigated by traditional rowing boats along the Ngo Dong River. Completing the scenic triangle is Mua Cave (Hang Múa). While not an actual cave tour, its main draw is the challenging climb up nearly 500 steps to a dragon-crested viewpoint, rewarding visitors with a spectacular panoramic view that captures the majestic expanse of the Tam Cốc river system and the surrounding karst landscape.

Available options

Shuttle Bus

Pickup included

Limousine Bus

Pickup included

Dcar Limousine

Pickup included

What's included

English Speaking Guide

Full transfers Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Hanoi

Cycling activity

Free usage of rain-coat and conical hat during the trip

Buffet Lunch

All Entrance fees and sharing boat at Tam Coc

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

7h15-8h00 : The tour guide will pick you up from your hotel. We take you to Ninh Binh province which is about 120 km far from Hanoi Old Quarter.
9h00-9h15 : Have a short break for 20 minutes to relax

10h15-10h30: Arrive Vietnam restaurant and start cycling 20 minutes to Hoa Lu ancient capital, then park the bicycle and walk to visit Hoa Lu. This is the first capital of Vietnam, you will be impressed by the outstanding architecture when entering temples of King Dinh and King Le, the first and second emperors of ancient Vietnam, built in the 17th century.
(If you prefer not to cycle, we will transfer you by bus to Hoa Lu, where the tour guide will meet you and guide you to the temples. After the visit, we will transfer you back to Vietnam Restaurant)
11h30 : Continue cycling tour 30 minutes more around the village to discover the life of local people and come back to Vietnam restaurant.
12h00: Have Lunch at Cozy Vietnam Restaurant designed in a 5-star style. You can have a panoramic view of the poetic mountain and river scenery of Ninh Binh while enjoying the delicious foods.

Stop 3

13h00 – 13h30: Visit Tam Coc by 1.5- hour on the boat ride. During the boat trip, you will be surprised by the charming beauty here with paddy fields, river, water, cloud, sky and stunning cave system. All make a masterpiece which Vietnamese people call “Halong Bay on land”.

16h00-16:30 : Get on the bus to go to Mua Cave ( Dancing Cave). Walk up almost 500 steps, you can reach the top of Lying Dragon Mountain, and have an amazing panoramic view of Tam Coc from here.

Stop 5

17h00 - 17h30 : Get on the Bus to return to Hanoi
19h00 - 19h30: Arrive in Hanoi and get dropped off at the Hotel. The trip ends !

What's not included

Drinks

Personal expenses

Holiday surcharges

All services and items not mentioned specifically in the list above

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Hanoi

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a vibrant city steeped in history and culture. Known for its French colonial architecture, bustling Old Quarter, and rich culinary scene, Hanoi offers a unique blend of traditional and modern experiences.

Top Attractions

Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake is a serene oasis in the heart of Hanoi, surrounded by lush greenery and historical landmarks. The lake is a popular spot for locals and tourists to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Hanoi Old Quarter

The Old Quarter is the historic and cultural heart of Hanoi, featuring narrow streets lined with traditional shops, temples, and colonial-era architecture. It's a vibrant area with a rich history and bustling atmosphere.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore, shopping and dining vary

Temple of Literature

The Temple of Literature is a historic Confucian temple dedicated to education and literature. It's a serene and culturally significant site, featuring beautiful architecture and a peaceful garden.

Historical 1-2 hours 30,000 VND

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a significant historical site where the embalmed body of Vietnam's revolutionary leader, Ho Chi Minh, is displayed. The mausoleum is a place of pilgrimage and a symbol of Vietnam's history.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Hanoi Opera House

The Hanoi Opera House is a stunning example of French colonial architecture, featuring elegant design and a rich history. It's a popular venue for cultural performances and events.

Architecture 1-2 hours for a performance Varies by event

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pho

A traditional Vietnamese noodle soup with a flavorful broth, rice noodles, and thinly sliced meat, typically beef or chicken.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Bun Cha

Grilled pork patties served with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a dipping sauce.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat

Banh Mi

A Vietnamese sandwich with a crispy baguette, filled with various ingredients such as grilled meat, pâté, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs.

Snack/Lunch Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Egg Coffee

A unique Vietnamese coffee made with strong drip coffee, condensed milk, and a frothy egg yolk mixture.

Drink Contains eggs and dairy

Popular Activities

Kayaking in Ha Long Bay Trekking in Sapa Boat ride in Hoan Kiem Lake Coffee at a local café Exploring the Temple of Literature Visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Swimming and snorkeling in Ha Long Bay Egg coffee tasting

Best Time to Visit

October to December

This period offers pleasant weather with lower humidity and temperatures, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is less crowded compared to the peak tourist season.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Vietnamese
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other areas

Currency

Vietnamese Dong (VND)

Time Zone

GMT+7

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Hanoi is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, petty crime and scams can occur, and travelers should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transportation.
• Use reputable taxi companies and insist on using the meter or agree on a price before starting your journey.
• Be wary of strangers offering help or services, as they may be trying to scam you.

Getting there

By air

Noi Bai International Airport • 28 km from city center

By train

Hanoi Railway Station

By bus

Giap Bat Bus Station, My Dinh Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system in Hanoi is affordable and covers most of the city. However, it can be crowded and confusing for first-time visitors.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab, Gojek

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Quarter French Quarter Ba Dinh District Tay Ho District

Day trips

Ha Long Bay

165 km from Hanoi • Full day to overnight

Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning limestone karsts and islets, emerald waters, and scenic beauty. It's a popular destination for cruises, kayaking, and exploring caves.

Ninh Binh

90 km from Hanoi • Full day

Ninh Binh is known as 'Halong Bay on land' due to its stunning limestone karsts, rice paddies, and historic sites. It's a popular destination for cycling, boat rides, and exploring ancient temples.

Sapa

320 km from Hanoi • Overnight to multi-day

Sapa is a mountainous region known for its stunning rice terraces, ethnic minority villages, and trekking opportunities. It's a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and cultural experiences.

Festivals

Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year) • January or February (based on the lunar calendar) Mid-Autumn Festival • September or October (based on the lunar calendar) Hanoi International Film Festival • October or November (annual)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
Explore the city's hidden gems and lesser-known attractions, such as the Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural and the Temple of Literature.
Try local street food and visit markets for an authentic and delicious culinary experience.
Use a navigation app, such as Google Maps or GrabMaps, to help you get around the city and avoid getting lost.
Be cautious of your belongings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transportation, to avoid petty crime and scams.