Overview

Today we visit Hoa Lu, situated 100 km south of Hanoi, was the capital city of Vietnam under the Dinh Dynasty between 968 and 1009 AD. Some of the sanctuaries and tombs have survived the years and can still be seen today. Apart from the historical interest, the river trip in Tam coc is wonderful for photo hunters, which is often compare with Guilin - China, or more closely, to the limestone islets of Halong Bay in the Tonkin Gulf for their similar geological structures and shapes. Thus Tam Coc is also called Halong-Bay-On-Land.

 Tour features & Highlights:
   

• Scenic rural countryside landscapes
• Boat trip along peaceful river through natural tunnelswith rice paddy,locals farming and limestone karst backdrops
• Local guide knowledge about life of rice farmers and their traditions
• Cycling through the local villages
• Visiting Hoa Lu sanctuary and its neighboring countrysides
• Have a lunch with goat meat- a local delicacy

Itinerary

Pick up at hotel and depart for Ninh Binh in the morning. It is a two and half hour drive southeast of Hanoi to the former Vietnam’s capital city – Hoa Lu (968 – 1009). The ancient Hoa Lu Citadel (most of which has since been destroyed) once covered an area of three square kilometers. Visit Hoa Lu with the Dinh and Le Temples as well as Citadel traces. Apart from the historical importance, keep heading to Tam Coc Town for lunch. Along the way stop where you wish to take photographs of local villages and the stunning landscape.

After lunch, board your private sampan*(see options below) to amazing site of Tam Coc referred as “Halong Bay on land”. As the boat gently slices through the water, notice the enormous limestone karsts and take a deep into dramatic scenery.
If time allowed, we can also pay a visit to Bich Dong – A Pagoda set in to the limestone cave in greenness as Jade. Get back to our car for the drive back to Hanoi approximately by 6 pm.

Option 1:
Trang An: situated near to Tam Coc, Trang An is a nature reserve similar to Tam Coc however currently less visited. Limestone hills surround a peaceful river which passes through a series of caves (one which takes 15-minutes to pass through in darkness). An 'eco tourism' area, the only interruptions here are the sound of birds and the gentle paddle of the oar upon the crystal clear river.

Option 2:
Thung Nang: Similar to Tam Coc, Thung Nang is off the tourist trail and a pleasant alternative. Pass through a cave, fields of lotus (in summer) and reach a quaint pagoda before returning on the same route.

Rates

This trip is private for each group of passengers . So the cost for this trip can be varied depending on the number of people in your group and  your specific travel needs. Please contact to give us your requests or simply ask for more information.

Group size	2 pax	3 - 4 pax	5 - 6 pax
Price per person	73 US$	48 US$	39 US$

INCLUSIVE:

•     Private air-con transportation
•     English speaking guide
•     Lunch at local restaurant
•     Entrance fees and permits where applicable
•     Sampan with rowers

EXCLUSIVE:

•     Transfers beyond the itinerary
•     Tips and Personal expenses such as drinks
•     Travel insurance

Gallery