Hoa Lu – Tam Coc – Mua Cave Full Day Tour
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Overview
This full-day excursion from Hanoi brings together Vietnam’s historic charm and lush landscapes in a single, enriching experience. The tour typically spans 10–12 hours, blending cultural landmarks, riverscapes, and a moderately challenging hike—all in a small, friendly group.
Hoa Lư Ancient Capital (circa 968–1010)
Explore Vietnam’s first capital and its historic temples dedicated to Kings Dinh and Lê.
Gain insight into the feudal dynasties from knowledgeable guides.
Lunch with Local Flavors
Enjoy a buffet-style Vietnamese lunch, including regional specialties like goat meat, rice dishes, and vegetarian options.
Some tours also offer bottled water, traditional hats, or raincoats for included convenience.
Tam Cốc Boat Ride (“Halong Bay on Land”)
Drift on a traditional bamboo or sampan boat along the Ngo Đồng River through three natural caves (Hang Cả, Hang Hai, Hang Ba)
Marvel at limestone karsts, shimmering interiors, lush rice fields, and the peaceful rural atmosphere. 
Village Cycling (Optional/Included)
Enjoy a leisurely 45-minute bike ride through nearby villages and golden paddy fields, engaging with rural life.
Hike to Mua Cave (Hang Múa)
Climb nearly 500 steps to the summit of “Lying Dragon Mount” for sweeping views over Tam Cốc and its surrounding landscapes.
The hike is moderately challenging but yields a richly rewarding panorama.
| Tour Group | Price (USD)/person |
|---|---|
| Group 17 guests (Limousine Transfer) | 40$ |
| Group 22 guests (Limousine Transfer) | 42$ |
Terms
CHILDREN POLICY
- Children from 9 or older are considered adult
- Children from 4 to 8: 75% of the tour cost for an adult
- Child under 4: free of charge (An additional fee is required when opting for a separate bus seat)
CANCELLATION POLICY
- 1 day before departure: No charge
- No show: 100% charge
Bus for Hanoi – Ninh Binh tour
For an unforgettable and hassle-free Ninh Binh one-day tour from Hanoi, we use the limousine bus with pick up and drop off at your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter. Our 17-seater bus offers unparalleled comfort with soft seats and a spacious interior. The bus is equipped with high-speed WiFi and USB ports for your convenience.
- Distance: 90km
- Driving time: 2 – 2,5 hours with a short break on the halfway
- Capacity: 10, 17, 19 passengers
- Bottle water
Buffet Lunch
- During the tour, you will be served a buffet lunch with most Vietnamese dishes such as roasted chicken, stir-fry goat, fried fish, and a load of salad, and vegetables.
- Vegetarian food is also available
Included/Exclude
- Shuttle bus with an experienced driver, pick up & drop off at hotels
- English Speaking Guide
- Free Wi-Fi and water on the bus
- Buffet Lunch with Vietnamese cuisine
- Free usage of hat & umbrella, rain-coat during the trip
- VAT 10%
- Drinks
- Tips for tour guide & driver
- Or anything is NOT mentioned above
Tour Plan
In the morning
7.30 – 8.00: Pick up guests at the hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter, heading to Ninh Binh with a short break on the halfway
10:15: Arrive at Hoa Lu ancient capital, a beautiful ancient city that was the economic and political center of Dai Co Viet country in the 10th and 11th centuries. In Hoa Lu, you will visit the Temples of the Dinh & Le Dynasties, the last remaining structures from the 10th-century capital.
11:20: Visit Mua Cave (the Cave of Dance) and enjoy the breathtaking panoramic mountainous view. Climb up a stone staircase beside the cave entrance and zigzag through the karst, almost 500 steps to the peak over Ngo Dong River where the boat rides to Tam Coc.
12:30: Enjoy traditional Vietnamese set menu lunch.
In the afternoon
13.30: Enjoy a sampan boat trip in Tam Coc, passing through three enormous caves on the Ngo Dong River (named: Hang Ca, Hang Hai & Hang Ba). Take stunning photos, you pass by the limestone karst formation on the water and the amazing rice fields on the banks of the river.
Then cycling through the rice fields and local villages nearby. Enjoy the sunset party with tea and fruits, relaxing before leaving back to Hanoi.
19:00: The bus drops off you at the hotel in Hanoi Old Quater. The one-day tour in Ninh Binh with Hoa Lu ancient capital, Mua Cave and Tam Coc ends.
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3 thoughts on “Hoa Lu – Tam Coc – Mua Cave Full Day Tour”
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5
I was blown away by the natural beauty of Ninh Binh. The boat ride through Tam Coc was so peaceful and the views were out of this world. Our guide was super friendly and knowledgeable. Highly recommend this tour!
5
This was the highlight of my Vietnam trip. The limestone mountains, green rice paddies, and peaceful rivers made for a magical experience. Don’t miss the chance to visit!
5
Ninh Binh was the perfect escape from the hustle of the city. We especially loved the Trang An boat tour – it felt like a scene from a movie! Would have loved to stay longer.