Hanoi, Ninh Binh Day Trip with Tam Coc, Hoa Lu & Mua Cave

Nest Asia Travel

Embark on a day trip from Ninh Binh province to Hoa Lu and Tam Coc. Explore the region's history, float through rice paddies, and discover caves. Enjoy a buffet lunch and comfortable transport.

Mua Caves

❮ ❯

See more photos

Embark on a day trip from Ninh Binh province, and head approximately 100 km southeast of Hanoi to Hoa Lu and Tam Coc. Learn about the history of the region, float among the rice patties, discover caves. Enjoy a buffet lunch with local treats and comfortable air-conditioned transport along the way.

For a span of 41 years, from 968 to 1009 CE, Hoa Lu reigned as the esteemed capital of Vietnam. In close proximity, Tam Coc is often referred to as "Ha Long among the rice paddies."

Enjoy being transported by rowboat along the serene Tam Coc stream, gliding past emerald fields and the towering bases of mountains, and ultimately entering the enchanting mouths of caves. Be met with delightful surprises, from shimmering stalactites to glistening stalagmites, mere inches from the tranquil waters.

Itinerary for the Hoa Lu – Tam Coc – Mua Cave Tour:

Departure commences with your pick-up from your hotel in the old quarter. Head to Hoa Lu – the Ancient Royal capital of Vietnam. Visit Dinh king temple and Le king temple, which date back to the 10th century, revealing the heroic legacies of these two Kings during the Chinese Wars. Next, venture to Tam Coc (located 10 km away from Hoa Lu).

Continue on to visit Mua Cave, boasting a staircase with a remarkable 500 steps leading to the pinnacle of Mua Mountain. Be rewarded at the summit with a sweeping view of the splendid Hoa Lu landscape.

Tuck into a sumptuous lunch at a local restaurant. Following your meal, board a bamboo boat, skillfully rowed by local residents, for a journey along the Hoang Long River to explore Tam Coc. During this tranquil voyage, you'll traverse three massive caves, taking a respite from the summer sun.

The boat trip typically spans about two hours, allowing you to observe the daily life of local fishermen, riverside villages, and the striking limestone karst formations that have made Tam Coc renowned.