Ninh Binh – Mua Cave – Tam Coc – Hoa Lu Full day tour | Explore Northern Vietnam’s natural & cultural wonders

Know as the “Ha Long on land“, Ninh Binh is one of Northern Vietnam’s most captivating destinations, where majestic limestone mountains, emerald rivers, ancient temples, and peaceful countryside create a truly unforgettable landscape. Curated by Heritage Ham Long Hotel & Spa, our Ninh Binh – Mua Cave – Tam Coc – Hoa Lu full – day tour offers the perfect blend of hiking, cycling, and gentle river cruising. Escape the urban rush of Hanoi and embark on a comprehensive jourey to uncover the most captivating gems of Northern Vietnam by joining the Ninh Binh – Mua Cave – Tam Coc – Hoa Lu full day tour.

What is the Ninh Binh – Mua Cave – Tam Coc – Hoa Lu full day tour?

This premium day trip is designed for adventurous souls and culture enthusiasts alike. Departing from Hanoi, the Ninh Binh – Mua Cave – Tam Coc – Hoa Lu full day tour takes you takes you through the panoramic heights of Mua Cave, the peaceful waterways of Tam Coc, and the historical grounds of Hoa Lu Ancient Capital. It is an immersive experience where you can physically engage with nature – hiking and biking – while also enjoying deeply relaxing moments on a traiditional sampan boat.

Top 4 reasons to book the Ninh Binh – Mua Cave – Tam Coc – Hoa Lu full day tour

High-Quality transfer service: Travel comfortably in our premium Limousine bus with an experienced driver, ensuring a smooth round-trip from Hanoi to Ninh Binh.
Yin-Yang balanced culinary experience: Enjoy a special local lunch where the menu is thoughtfully crafted to feature the yin-yang balance of traditional Asian culture, ensuring both delicious flavors and excellent nutrition.
Conquer Mua Cave for panoramic views: Hike up the 500 steps of Ngoa Long Mountain at Mua Cave to reward yourself with the most breathtaking, unobstructed 360-degree views of the Tam Coc valley.
Discover Tam Coc & Historic Hoa Lu: Glide gracefully on a sampan boat through the majestic limestone caves of Tam Coc, and step back in time to the 10th century at Hoa Lu to learn about Vietnam’s ancient royal history.

Tour itinerary

07:15 – 07:45: Pick up from your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter and depart for Ninh Binh.
08:45 – 09:30: (For guests already in Ninh Binh) Pick up from your hotel or private address in Ninh Binh to the meeting point.
09:45 – 10:00: Arrive at Mua Cave (Hang Mua), one of the most alluring places for panoramic views in Ninh Binh. Hike up to the peak of Ngoa Long Mountain to take in the amazing views of the Tam Coc area.
11:00 – 11:30: Take a bike and start riding around the village. Explore the gorgeous rice fields surrounded by limestone mountains via a unique route. Visit a local Tam Coc family—a traditional Vietnamese household with three generations living together—to observe their architecture and daily lives.
12:00 – 12:30: Arrive at the restaurant to refresh and enjoy a special lunch with local cuisine, highlighting the yin-yang balance of Asian culinary traditions.
14:00 – 14:30: After the lunch break, continue your trip by boarding a sampan rowed by a local for about 1.5 hours to explore Tam Coc (“Halong Bay on land”). Enjoy a peaceful journey along the Ngo Dong River, passing limestone mountains, caves, and vibrant rice paddies (especially beautiful during harvest season).
16:00 – 16:30: Arrive in Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam in the 10th century. Visit the temple of King Dinh and learn about fascinating Vietnamese history from our knowledgeable local guide.
17:00 – 17:30: Leave Ninh Binh and drive straight back to Hanoi. (Guests staying in Ninh Binh will be dropped off at the meeting point).
19:00 – 19:30: Arrive in Hanoi. We will drop you off safely at Heritage Ham Long Hotel & Spa or your private address in the Hanoi Old Quarter. Trip ends.

Prices, Inclusions & Exclusions

Prices for the Ninh Binh – Mua Cave – Tam Coc – Hoa Lu full day tour:

From 95 USD per person

Inclusions

– Limousine bus with an experieced driver.
– Professional English – speaking guide.
– Free Wi-Fi & bottled water on the bus.
– 2 – way electric car transfer (where applicable in the site areas).
– Buffet lunch featuring authentic Vietnamese cuisine.
– Free usage of hats, umbrellas, and raincoats during the trip.

Exclusions

– VAT 10%.
– Drinks during lunch.
– Tips for the tour guide and driver.
– Anything NOT specifically mentioned above.

What to bring for your Ninh Binh trip?

To ensure maximum comfort during outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling, please remember to pack:
– Sunglasses and sun cream.
– A comfortable hat.
– Camera or smartphone for stunning photos.
– Recommendation: Wear comfortable clothing and sports shoes suitable for hiking at Mua Cave.