Karsts, Citadels & Cycle in Ninh Binh - Full day

Highlights:
+ 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
+ Cycle amongst the lime karsts and surrounding scenery
+ Take a row boat through Tam Coc, to explore magnificent caves and get up close to the region’s spectacular karst country

Details:
Duration: 9 hours
Pickup location: Pick up at centrally located hotels in Hanoi.
Pickup time: 8.30 AM
Drop off location: Drop off at centrally located hotels in Hanoi

Detailed Itinerary:
Our journey begins with a two hour drive from the hectic capital of Hanoi to the province of Ninh Binh, approximately 100 kilometres away. Our first destination is Hoa 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, dive into history at 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.

Next it's time for the biking part of the tour, as you hop on a bike for a 10 kilometre bike ride through the area, lime karsts towering above you as you ride along backroads and beautiful scenery... experiences you just don't get on other Hanoi tours!

Following our bike ride, we'll 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 truly wonderful sight to see.

Here we board rowing boats for a 2.5 hour journey through caves, passing 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 the surrounding limestone karsts make for a stunning backdrop, presenting 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.
    

Inclusions: Local English speaking guide, entrance fees as indicated, transportation as indicated, bike and helmet, lunch.

Exclusions: Items of a personal nature, tips / gratuities for driver or guide.

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.

Confirmation of booking: If you have your voucher, your booking is confirmed. We'll see you at your hotel for pick up. Please check your hotel details are correct on the voucher. If your details are not correct, it is very important to please email us to confirm your correct pick up hotel using the contact details on the voucher. If you prefer you may also phone the change through to us during business hours.

Local contact:
Office phone number: +84 (0) 1234555208
Email address: [email protected]