Full-Day Guided Tour of Hoa Lu & Tam Coc from Hanoi with Lunch

Discover Ancient Majesty: From Hanoi to Hoa Lu

Embark on a day-long escapade with convenient transfers from the bustling Hanoi to the serene Ninh Binh province, a land resplendent with verdant rice fields and towering limestone peaks. Led by an expert English-speaking guide, your day begins with a visit to Hoa Lu, the erstwhile capital of Vietnam during the 10th century. Meander through the remnants of dynastic grandeur, embodied in the unique architecture of 2 beautiful temples dedicated to the powerful kings Dinh Tien Hoang and Le Dai Hanh. While in Hoa Lu, marvel at the terrestrial counterpart of Halong Bay – karst formations emerging from the ground instead of water, offering an extraordinary natural spectacle.

Savor & Sail: Vietnamese Lunch & Sampan Boat Ride

Savor a slice of Vietnamese culture over a traditional lunch at Tam Coc. Post lunch, you'll be in for an extraordinary adventure – a customary sampan boat ride along the serene Hoang Long River. Set sail on a small wooden boat along the river, flanked by mountains and lush rice fields. Glide through a network of caves – Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba – named intriguingly in the order of their discovery. Each has its unique allure, with Hang Ca, the longest one, stretching a remarkable 127m. As you traverse through its length, delight in the play of natural daylight mingling with the artificial lighting system, casting an otherworldly glow within the cave.

Itinerary

• 7:45am to 8:30pm: Hanoi Old Quarter

• Ninh Binh province

• Dinh Tien Hoang and Le Dai Hanh Temples

• 12:30pm: Tam Coc for lunch

• Hoang Long River Cruise

• Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba caves sightseeing

• 6:30pm: Return to Hanoi

Full-Day Guided Tour of Hoa Lu & Tam Coc from Hanoi with Lunch

Dive into a day steeped in history, natural beauty, and cultural richness as you venture out from bustling Hanoi to explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and the serene landscapes of Tam Coc. This meticulously crafted journey for explorers of antiquity, devotees of natural wonders, and seekers of peace brings you face-to-face with the relics of Vietnam's earliest dynasties, nestled within a tapestry of rice paddies and limestone cliffs. Marvel at the temples of Dinh and Early Le dynasties that stand as silent sentinels over Hoa Lu’s ancient streets, where each stone whispers tales of kings and queens long gone. With round-trip transfers from Hanoi included in the package, your guide will ensure every moment is a step back through time, setting the stage for an unforgettable adventure. This full-day tour weaves history and nature together, offering a tapestry of experiences that forge connections with Vietnam’s storied past while understanding the enduring charm of its landscapes.

Visit Hoa Lu's Ancient Capital

Visit Hoa Lu during the tour's highlight segment where ancient temples and palaces lie in wait. Accessing this historic site included in the package enables you to step back into a time when Vietnam’s first rulers reigned over their kingdom, symbolized by the unique structure of its temples in the shape of the Chinese character 国, meaning nation. The temples stand as proud remnants of the Dinh and Early Le dynasties, offering explorers a glimpse into the architectural grandeur and spiritual significance of this bygone era. Wander through the ancient capital’s narrow lanes, marveling at the intricate carvings that adorn the temple walls and the serene gardens where local artisans continue to practice traditional crafts passed down through generations.

Explore Tam Coc's Three Caves

Experience Tam Coc as part of the comprehensive itinerary featuring Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba, the three caves renowned for their natural beauty. Access these limestone karst formations included in the tour package enabling you to cruise along the Hoang Long River in a traditional sampan boat. Marvel at nature’s artistry as sunlight filters through openings high above, casting ethereal shadows on the cave walls adorned with intricate stone formations. Each cavern offers its own unique story and aesthetic appeal, from the towering stalactites and stalagmites of Hang Ca to the serene tranquility found within Hang Hai.

Experience Traditional Sampan Cruises

Discover Hoang Long River during your journey through Tam Coc where traditional sampan boats offer a picturesque way to explore the scenic beauty of this region. Explore the vast expanse of rice fields and towering mountains that surround you, each turn revealing new vistas that evoke a sense of wonder and awe. The cruise provides an authentic glimpse into local life along the riverbanks while also offering breathtaking views of nature’s majesty.

Tour Highlights

• Visit Hoa Lu's ancient capital with temples shaped like 国 symbolizing national peace
• Experience traditional sampan boat cruises along the Hoang Long River
• Explore the Three Caves (Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba) in Tam Coc
• Savor a traditional Vietnamese lunch amidst scenic landscapes of Tam Coc
• Marvel at expansive rice fields and towering mountains while cruising
• Learn about limestone karsts from an English-speaking guide enriching your experience

Embark for explorers of antiquity, devotees of natural wonders, and seekers of peace, this full-day tour weaves history and nature together, offering a tapestry of experiences that forge connections with Vietnam’s storied past while understanding the enduring charm of its landscapes. Like a painter's brushstroke bringing life to a canvas, each moment in Hoa Lu and Tam Coc paints vivid scenes of bygone eras and timeless beauty.