Amazing Ninh Binh Day Tour: Mua Cave - Tam Coc - Hoa Lu

Hanoi , Vietnam

Amazing Ninh Binh Day Tour: Mua Cave - Tam Coc - Hoa Lu

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(86 reviews)

11h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This tour designed for maximum 8 people in one group. Our transfer is high-quality and tour guide is professional, knowledgeable with good English speaking skill, to bring you the best experience along with the best care. In this tour, you will have a chance to visit a local family to explore the Vietnamese culture through their daily activities, wander around the Bich Dong pagoda where helps widen your knowledge of Vietnam history and understand the origin of Buddhism. Moreover, you will be amazed by the picturesque limestone mountains and nature when relaxing on sampan rowed by the local along the Tam Coc river- “Halong Bay on land” , then exploring the famous three caves. Last but not least, the unique biking route passing through villages, rice fields on a high-quality sports bike and hiking activity at Mua Cave – one of the most stunning places to take the best of Ninh Binh into your eyes will definitely fascinate you.

Available options

Small Group of 12 Passenger

Transfer by luxury mini bus<br/>Pickup included

Small Group of 8 passengers

Luxury Limousine bus<br/>Pickup included

What's included

English-speaking Tour Guide

3 bottles of water per person

Entrance fees, Boat trip

Lunch

Pick up & drop off in Hanoi Old Quarter area.

Bike for cycling activity

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

07.15 – 07.45 Pick-up from your hotel or private address and departure to Ninh Binh.

09:30 -10:00 Arrive at Hang Mua, "Mua Cave" one of the most alluring places to get the panorama view in Ninh Binh, hiking up to the peak of Ngoa Long Mountain to take in your amazing views of the Tam Coc, Ninh Binh area.

11:00 – 11:30 Take a bike and start riding around the village to explore the gorgeous rice fields surrounded by limestone mountains with a unique route and visit a local family in the Tam Coc area. They are a traditional Vietnamese family with three generations living together. Here you will get the chance to see the house’s architecture and their daily lives.
12:30 Enjoy a special lunch prepared with the traditional cuisine, featuring the yin-yang balance of the Asian culture.

Stop 4

14:00 After lunch break, continue your trip with a sampan rowed by a local for about 1.5 hours to explore Tam Coc "Halong Bay on the land". The boat trip is a nice journey along the river with the peaceful scenery of limestone mountains and caves stretching along Ngo Dong River rice paddy if travelling during harvest season.

Stop 5

16:30 Arrive in Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam in the 10th century, and visit the temple of King Dinh. Under the introduction of our local guide, you will get to know more about Vietnamese history.

Leave Ninh Binh and drive straight back to Hanoi.

What's not included

Gratuities, Drink in meal, Travel insurance

Pick up and drop off service at hotels outside the Old Quarter

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

86 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Our tour guide will pick up you at your hotel in the Old Quarter.
If you do not stay in Hanoi Old Quarter area, please move to the Hanoi Opera House, walk along Trang Tien street until you reach the magnificent Opera House located at 1 Trang Tien street in Hoan Kiem district

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.