Surround yourself in the rich history and breathtaking scenery of Vietnam. Step back in time at the ancient citadel of Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s first capital. Climb on a bike for a ride along backroads of the area, taking in the scenery. Then, take a row boat through Tam Coc, to explore magnificent caves and get up close to the region’s spectacular karst country.
Itinerary:
Our Hanoi tour journey begins with a two hour drive from the hectic capital of Hanoi to the province of Ninh Binh, approximately 100kms. Our first destination is Hao Lu, the location of the capital of Vietnam during the Dinh Dynasty (968-980) and early Le Dynasty (980-1009), the ancient citadel once covered 300 hectares of land, however the passage of time has left few remains of this once glorious capital of the Vietnam.
On arrival our local guide will take us through the Dinh & Le Temple, restored in the 17th century the temples are dedicated Dinh and Le emperors and believed to be built on the original foundations of the old palaces from the 11th and 12th centuries. You will delve into our history on this Hanoi cultural tour.
Next jump on a bike for a 12 km bike ride through the area, lime karsts towering above you as you ride along backroads and beautiful scenery... experiences you dont get on other Hanoi tours.
Following our bike visit we stop for lunch at a local restaurant before visiting Tam Coc (which translates as "Three Caves"). The area is often referred to as the Halong Bay of the land due to its spectacular scenery, lime karsts rise up of the ground to tower over the region, and is a Hanoi travel wonder! Here we board rowing boats for a 2 to 2 ½ hour journey through caves, passed local villages along the river system of the Red River Delta. The scenery comprises of lush green rice paddies during the rice growing seasons and surrounding limestone karsts making for a stunning backdrop to the journey and presents many photo opportunities for the keen photographers amongst the group.
At the end of the boat trip, it is time to return to Hanoi as we finish our Hanoi tour.
Additional information:
Voucher exchange details:
Please present your voucher to the local guide at the beginning of the tour.
Dress standard:
When packing be aware that dress standards are conservative throughout Asia, especially outside major cities. To respect this and for your own comfort, we strongly recommend modest clothing. This means clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Loose, lightweight, long clothing is both respectful and cool in the predominantly hot Asian climate. In many rural areas in Asia women will need to wear modest clothing even to swim. Singlets, tank tops and topless sun bathing are all unacceptable. When visiting religious sites men often need to wear long trousers and women a long skirt or sarong.
Child policy:
Travellers must be 12 years or older on this trip.
Schedule details:
Duration:
9-10 hours
Start time:
8.00 AM-8.30 AM
Finish point:
Drop off centrally located hotels in Hanoi
