Ticket Hall

From Hanoi to Ninh Binh: Hoa Lu - Tam Coc/Trang An - Mua Cave

4.9341 reviewsDay trips

  • 10–12 hours
  • Free cancellation up to 24h before
  • Guided in English
  • Instant confirmation

Highlights

This tour offers a unique opportunity to delve into the captivating beauty and rich history of Hoa Lu and Tam Coc, two of northern Vietnam's most picturesque destinations. Experience the grandeur of Hoa Lu, the ancient capital, followed by a serene exploration of the Tam Coc via traditional rowboat. Ascend to the summit of Mua Cave for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding rice paddies and majestic limestone formations. This tour caters to travelers seeking adventure, historical insights, and an immersive cultural experience. Our expert guide provides in-depth knowledge of the region's history, traditions, and local life, ensuring a truly enriching and memorable journey.

Inclusions

What's included

  • 01 bottle of water on bus
  • Bike is a very small activity (30mins) on the package & just for fun & free
  • All entrance tickets
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Lunch with buffet

What's not

  • Tips or Gratuities
  • Soft drink / Beer during lunch
  • Other expenses not mentioned
  • Surcharge: 10USD more per person on the lunar New year holiday: Jan - 28,29,30,31 & Feb 01, 2025

Itinerary

  1. Pick - up in Hanoi. Moving to Ninh Binh by air-conditioned bus, where we will spend the day exploring the highlights of the region. Have a short break for 20 minutes

    2 h

  2. Embark on a heart-pounding hike up the steep steps and winding paths that lead to the top of the Mua Cave viewpoint. Ascend through a lush, verdant landscape, with the path occasionally passing through small caves and grottoes. Pause along the way to catch your breath and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding karst mountains, rivers, and rice paddies that gradually come into view. Once at the summit, be rewarded with a panoramic vista that will leave you in awe. Gaze out over the undulating peaks of the Ninh Binh landscape, the winding Ngo Dong River, and the patchwork of verdant rice fields below. Snap iconic photographs framing the famous "Dragon Mountain" and the serene natural wonder that stretches out in every direction. Explore the small temple and pavilion at the top of the viewpoint, which offer a peaceful respite and a chance to fully appreciate the stunning scenery.

    50 minAdmission included

  3. Explore the well-preserved remains of the 10th and 11th century capital, including ancient temple complexes and royal structures. Marvel at the impressive stone architecture and intricate carvings that showcase the artistic prowess of the Dinh and Early Le dynasties. Wander through the serene courtyards and gardens, imagining the grandeur of the imperial palace that once stood here. Learn about the historical significance of Hoa Lu, which served as the political and cultural heart of Vietnam for over a century. Visit the Temple of King Dinh and the Temple of King Le, two of the most important religious sites within the ancient capital. Gain insights into the rich history and legacy of the Dinh and Early Le dynasties that ruled during Hoa Lu's golden age. Appreciate the harmony between the site's cultural heritage and the dramatic natural landscape that surrounds it.

    45 minAdmission included

  4. After lunch you will get on bamboo boat – rowed by the local people – in Hoang Long river to visit Tam Coc (three caves) on the way. You pass through three enormous caves that provide a brief respite from the intense summer sun. It takes approximately two hours to go up and down the river and along the way, you witness local fisherfolk, village life along the river and, of course, the striking limestone karst formations that Tam Coc is famous for

    1.5 hAdmission included

  5. Get on bus and go back to Ha Noi. We arrival in Hanoi and finish the tour at around 19h00 to 19h30 pm

    2 h

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, for a full refund.

Reviews

4.9

  • 5322
  • 417
  • 31
  • 21
  • 10

Ratings come from 341 reviews collected by our booking partner. They are travellers' own words, in the order they were written — never reordered to flatter the experience.

Know before you go

Meeting point
If you stay out of Hanoi Old Quarter, please go to the meeting point at Hanoi Opera House at 07:50 AM and please inform the activity provider. Please check your email a day before the tour to check your pickup time and details.
Pickup
Pickup is offered, or you can meet at the starting point.
Ticket type
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group size
Up to 20 travellers
Operated by
Nest Asia Travel
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • 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

How it compares in Hanoi

  • Its from-price is 32% below the median of the 2545 day trips we list in Hanoi.
  • Its length is typical for the group.
  • By number of reviews it ranks 41 of 2545.
  • The operator lists free cancellation on it.

About Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam's capital, mixes lakeside temples, French colonial boulevards and an Old Quarter where street food and scooters fill every lane.

The Old Quarter's narrow streets, each once devoted to a single trade, sit just north of Hoan Kiem Lake, where the red Huc Bridge leads to the Temple of the Jade Mountain. Wander at dawn to see tai chi by the water, or after dark when the pavements fill with food stalls and low plastic stools.

Top-ranked sights in Hanoi: Ha Long Bay, Hanoi Old Quarter, Long Bien Bridge (Cau Long Bien).

See all 9454 experiences in Hanoi

Special offers in Hanoi

Was/now prices come from the operator, never from us.

Similar experiences

Hop-on hop-off in Hanoi

1 / 6

Three steps to add it

Plan with AIYour trip, day by day