Ninh Binh: Hoa Lu, Bich Dong, Trang An, Mua Cave Small Group Tour
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9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience
Discover the natural beauty and rich history of Ninh Binh on this small group tour to Hoa Lu, Bich Dong Pagoda, Trang An, and Mua Cave. Explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, wander through the peaceful pagodas of Bich Dong, cruise along the stunning waterways of Trang An surrounded by towering limestone karsts, and hike to the top of Mua Cave for panoramic views of the countryside. With a small group setting, you'll enjoy a more personalized and immersive experience in one of Vietnam’s most picturesque regions.
Available options
Ninh Binh: Hoa Lu, Bich Dong, Trang An, Mua Cave Small Group Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Minivan pick up and drop off at your accommodation in Tam Coc, Trang An, or Ninh Binh City
Discover the stunning beauty of Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Bich Dong Pagoda , Trang An, Mua Caves
Entrance Fees & Sightseeing tickets
Boat Trip at Trang An, Hiking at Mua Cave
Experienced English-speaking tour guide
A delectable Vietnamese lunch
A bottle of water per person
Detailed itinerary
1
8:30 AM: Our tour guide and van will pick you up at your hotel/homestay at Tam Coc, Trang An or Ninh Binh City and depart to visit Bich Dong Pagoda ( the oldest pagoda in Ninh Binh )
2
Stop 2
Explore the serene beauty of Bich Dong Pagoda, a peaceful spiritual site nestled against a lush mountainside. This ancient pagoda complex, built into the limestone cliffs, features three layered temples—Ha, Trung, and Thuong—each offering stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere. As you climb the stone steps through the cave passageways, you’ll be surrounded by the quiet charm of nature and centuries-old Buddhist architecture.
3
10:00 Keep moving to visit Mua Cave (Mua means Dance) with 500 steps up to the Top of Mua Mountain. On Top, you can overview of all the nice scenes of Hoa Lu.
4
11:00 Visit Hoa Lu – the Ancient Royal capital of Vietnam. We will visit Dinh King Temple and Le King Temple, in the 10th century, finding out the heroic histories of these two Kings in the Chinese Wars.
5
12:30 - Enjoy lunch at our restaurant with great local cuisine.
6
Stop 6
13:30 Depart to visit Trang An Eco-Tourism attraction, there is beautiful scenery landscape, you will board a small boat to visit Trang An, you will see majestic limestone cliffs and mysterious yet inviting caves, as well as countryside sights, like peaceful streams, rice paddies and deserted green fields. Take a boat trip to visit the cave complex: Sang Cave, Toi Cave, Ba Giot Cave, Nau Ruou in mystery and wildness, see the scenery of the mountain and rivers Ha Long on land of Ninh Binh.
7
16:30 Return our van and leave to your hotel
17:15 Arrive and drop off at your hotel. Trip End.
What's not included
Personal expenses & Beverages
Holiday surcharge & All other services not clearly mentioned above
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
We can accommodate dietary restrictions such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc. If you have dietary requirements, please indicate them when booking.
About Northern Vietnam
Northern Vietnam is a region rich in history, culture, and stunning landscapes. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene beauty of Ha Long Bay, this area offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers.
Top Attractions
Ha Long Bay
A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands.
Nature
2-3 days for a comprehensive experience
Moderate to Expensive (depending on cruise type)
Hanoi Old Quarter
The historic heart of Hanoi, known for its narrow streets, traditional architecture, and vibrant markets.
Historical/Cultural
1-2 days
Free to explore, budget for shopping and dining
Sapa
A picturesque town in the mountains, known for its terraced rice fields and ethnic minority villages.
Nature/Cultural
2-3 days
Moderate
Ninh Binh
Known as 'Halong Bay on land' for its stunning limestone karsts and ancient temples.
Nature/Historical
1-2 days
Budget to Moderate
Ha Giang Loop
A challenging and scenic motorbike route through the remote mountains of Northern Vietnam.
Adventure
3-5 days
Moderate to Expensive (depending on tour type)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Pho
A noodle soup with beef or chicken, served with fresh herbs and lime. It's a national dish and a must-try in Northern Vietnam.
Breakfast/Lunch
Can be made vegetarian/vegan (Pho Chay)
Bun Cha
Grilled pork patties served with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a dipping sauce. A specialty of Hanoi.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains pork, can be made vegetarian (Bun Chay)
Banh Mi
A baguette sandwich filled with various ingredients such as pork, pâté, pickled vegetables, and chili sauce. A popular street food item.
Snack/Lunch
Can be made vegetarian
Egg Coffee
A unique Hanoi specialty made with egg yolks, condensed milk, and strong coffee. Served hot or iced.
Drink
Contains dairy and eggs
Popular Activities
Motorbike the Ha Giang Loop
Trekking in Sapa
Kayaking in Ha Long Bay
Boat rides in Tam Coc
Spa and wellness treatments in Hanoi
Coffee tasting in Hanoi
Explore Hanoi Old Quarter
Visit temples in Ninh Binh
Best Time to Visit
March to April and September to November
These months offer pleasant weather with mild temperatures and less rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
20-30°C
68-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Vietnamese
- Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Vietnamese Dong (VND)
Time Zone
GMT+7
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in crowded areas and with street vendors
Northern Vietnam is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas. Be cautious with your belongings and use common sense.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious with street food and drink only bottled or filtered water
- • Use common sense and trust your instincts
Getting there
By air
- Noi Bai International Airport • 30 km from Hanoi city center
- Cat Bi International Airport • 5 km from Hai Phong city center
By train
Hanoi Railway Station, Hai Phong Railway Station
By bus
Hanoi Giap Bat Bus Station, Hanoi My Dinh Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are affordable and cover most areas, but they can be crowded and slow due to traffic.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Grab
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Hanoi Old Quarter
French Quarter
Tay Ho
Day trips
Ha Long Bay
165 km from Hanoi • 2-3 days for a comprehensive experience
A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands. A multi-day cruise is the best way to experience the bay.
Ninh Binh
90 km from Hanoi • 1-2 days
Known as 'Halong Bay on land' for its stunning limestone karsts and ancient temples. The area offers beautiful boat rides and scenic countryside.
Mai Chau
130 km from Hanoi • 2-3 days
A picturesque valley known for its rice fields, ethnic minority villages, and homestays. It's a great place to experience rural Vietnamese life.
Festivals
Tet Holiday (Lunar New Year) • January or February (varies each year)
Mid-Autumn Festival • September or October (varies each year)
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
- Hire a local guide for trekking and cultural experiences to gain a deeper understanding of the region
- Try street food at busy stalls with high turnover to ensure freshness and safety
- Use app-based transportation services like Grab for convenient and reliable taxis
- Carry small change for markets, street vendors, and public transportation
$55
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
