Highlights
- Discover the ancient Bich Dong Pagoda and enjoy a scenic viewpoint
- Explore Thung Nham Bird Park and see thousands of birds in their habitat
- Climb to the Mua Cave viewpoint for panoramic views of Tam Coc
- Visit the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital and learn about Vietnam's history
- Enjoy a boat ride through the Trang An Scenic Landscape, a UNESCO site
Description
Day 1: Halong Port to Ninh Binh
Begin your adventure with a pickup at Halong International Port. After immigration procedures, meet your guide and driver and set off for Ninh Binh, a journey of approximately 3.5 hours.
Arrive at Bich Dong Pagoda, an ancient temple built into a cave. Cross a scenic stone bridge and admire the limestone mountains. Take a short and easy climb to a beautiful viewpoint.
Next, enjoy lunch at a local Ninh Binh restaurant. Savor regional specialties like goat meat and crispy rice.
After lunch, explore Thung Nham Bird Park. Choose between a boat ride or a walk through lush wetlands. Witness thousands of birds, including storks and herons, in a peaceful forest and cave area.
Continue to Mua Cave (Hang Múa) Viewpoint. Climb 500 steps to one of Vietnam’s best viewpoints, featuring a dragon peak and panoramic views of Tam Coc. Optionally, visit the cave at the foot of the mountain.
Visit a local handicraft workshop, such as an embroidery village or the Tuy An tower area. Learn about local crafts and shop for souvenirs if desired.
Check in at your hotel in Ninh Binh and enjoy a free evening and dinner (own arrangement or included depending on package). Overnight in Ninh Binh.
Day 2: Hoa Lu, Trang An, Bai Dinh, and Return to Port
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel. Then, visit Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, the former capital of Vietnam in the 10th century. Explore the temples of King Dinh and King Le and learn about early Vietnamese dynasties.
Next, embark on a Trang An Scenic Landscape Cruise, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy a 2–2.5-hour sampan boat ride through caves, emerald waterways, and limestone mountains. See the filming site of 'Kong: Skull Island.'
After the cruise, have lunch at a local restaurant. Then, visit Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest Buddhist complex in Vietnam. Admire 500-la-han statues, a giant bronze Buddha, and stunning architecture and mountain scenery.
Finally, depart Ninh Binh and return to Halong International Port, a journey of approximately 3.5–4 hours. Arrive in time for cruise boarding, with timings adjustable based on your ship schedule.
Includes
Private car/van round-trip from Halong port
English-speaking guide
All entrance fees
Trang An boat trip
Meals: 1 breakfast, 2 lunch, 1 dinner
Hotel in Ninh Binh
Easy cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund