Explore Halong Bay on Land: Hoa Lu, Trang An, and Hang Mua
Overview
This one-day excursion to Ninh Binh will introduce you to a destination rich in historical, cultural, and geological significance. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the karst formations of the inland "Ha Long Bay".
- The boat ride to explore the scenic Trang An complex, classified by UNESCO as a Natural and Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
- Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam.
- The climb to the top of Mua Cave to enjoy a panoramic view of the Ngo Dong River.
- The sight of beautiful karst formations in the fabulous 'Terrestrial Halong Bay.
Itinerary
Visit to the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, boat trip in the Trang An Complex – a UNESCO World Heritage site, and ascent to Mua Cave
8:00 am: Departure for Ninh Binh. Visit Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage site recognized in 2014 for its natural splendor and impressive karst peak formations. This site served as the natural backdrop in the latest 'Kong: Skull Island' film series. The highlight of this sampan ride: A loop circuit lasting about 2.5 hours.
Board a traditional sampan boat that follows the current and enters a series of caves. Emerging from these caves, you'll enter a new world hidden in the heart of valleys, surrounded by tranquility. Peacefully row along the emerald-colored river with a view of karst mountains covered in tropical plants extending to the horizon.
Disembark for a stroll through peaceful pagodas and temples honoring the most famous Mandarins of the Tran Dynasty. At the Presentation Temple, you'll see troops of red carp swimming and surfacing, a delightful sight especially for young children. The sampan excursion continues, allowing you to enjoy enchanting landscapes until returning to the pier.
Lunch at a local's home by the rice fields.
Afternoon: Visit Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam from 968 to 1009. This fabulous site is rich in historical, cultural, religious, and geological wonders. The citadel is surrounded by limestone peaks and rivers forming a natural wall used for protection against Chinese invaders, providing a breathtaking setting.
Visit the two temples dedicated to the Dinh and Le Dynasties.
Transfer to Mua Cave, where, in ancient times, Tran Dynasty Kings came to watch dancers perform. It takes about an hour to climb the 500 steps to the top of these karst mountains, known as the 'Sugar Loaf,' where you'll enjoy a view of rice fields and boats sailing on peaceful rivers.
Return to Hanoi.
Prices and Accommodation
How to book?
Enter your travel date, the number of adults, and the language
Click "Book this tour" for price, then "Book now" to reserve.
"Pricing is for up to 6 adults. For larger groups, please request a customized offer in your 'special requests'
Included
- Transportation as per the itinerary in a private vehicle with a dedicated driver for your group.
- Meals as mentioned in the program: 1L = 1 Lunch.
- English-speaking guide.
- Entrance fees for the visited sites.
- Collective rowing boat excursion.
- One liter of bottled water per person per day.
- Administrative fees
Excluded
- Travelers' personal insurance.
- Bank fees.
- Beverages, phone, personal expenses, and anything not explicitly mentioned in the 'What's Included' section.
- Tips.
Useful Information
The period from February to March is the high season for Vietnamese tourists, resulting in a significant influx of visitors to the sites. If you still wish to go during this period, it's better to avoid weekends to make the most of these places.
Out of respect for the places of worship to be visited, such as temples and pagodas, appropriate attire is required, and you must cover your knees and shoulders
Similar Tours
Trang An & Countryside Life in the Red River Delta
Ninh Binh
Day Tours
Price
$50/pax
- Sampan excursion through beautiful lakes and the limestone mountains emerging in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Trang An area.
- Bicycle ride through villages and fields in the countryside, discovering rural life far from the hustle and bustle of the capital.