Ninh Binh From Hanoi Via Incense Village Small Group of 9

Experience the Best of Ninh Binh from Hanoi on a Small-Group Tour

This full-day trip takes you from the bustling streets of Hanoi to two of Vietnam’s most iconic sights: the colourful Incense Village and the breathtaking Ninh Binh landscape. For $82 per person, you’ll spend about 10 hours exploring, with a maximum of 9 travelers—ensuring a personal touch and attention from your guide, Bruce Lee.

What we love most about this tour is the chance to see craftsmanship in action at Quang Phu Cau Incense Village, where locals craft and dry incense in vibrant displays, and the stunning boat ride through Tam Coc, often called “Halong Bay on land,” with limestone karsts reflecting in serene rice paddies. We also appreciate the insider knowledge your guide shares, making the experience both educational and deeply authentic.

One thing to consider: the itinerary involves a fair amount of travel and walking, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with full-day excursions and some physical activity. If you’re curious about Vietnamese culture, history, and scenic landscapes, this trip offers a well-rounded taste of both. It’s particularly attractive for travelers who value small-group settings, local interaction, and a mix of cultural visits and natural beauty.

Key Points

• Small Group Experience: Limited to 9 travelers, offering personalized service and more opportunities for questions.
• Authentic Cultural Encounters: Visit a traditional incense making village and local homes, gaining insight into Vietnamese crafts and lifestyle.
• Spectacular Nature: Experience boat rides through Tam Coc’s limestone mountains and caves, providing memorable scenic views.
• Historical Insights: Explore Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s ancient capital, and learn about the country’s early kingdoms.
• Balanced Itinerary: Combines culture, history, and natural beauty with comfortable transportation and local cuisine.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Bruce Lee enhance your understanding of the sites and Vietnamese culture.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day in Hanoi

Your adventure begins early, with pick-up from either the Hanoi Old Quarter, Ba Dinh district, or central points like the Opera House. The air-conditioned vehicle whisks you away from Hanoi’s hustle into the countryside. This first stretch is a good chance to get a feel for rural Vietnam outside the city’s chaos.

Incense Village – Quang Phu Cau

Your first stop is Quang Phu Cau, a vibrant incense-making village. Here, you’ll see artisans carefully crafting incense sticks, hanging them to dry in various colorful formations. It’s a chance to observe and photograph local workers in action, capturing their dedication and skill. One reviewer loved the way Bruce Lee explained the process, making it accessible and engaging.

You’ll also have the opportunity to visit local homes, which deepens your understanding of Vietnamese village life. The friendly villagers often welcome visitors, and many have inherited incense-making traditions passed down through generations. We loved the authentic feel of this stop—far from touristy souvenir shops, it’s a real window into local industry and culture.

Lunch and Transition to Ninh Binh

After the incense village, a Vietnamese-style lunch at a local restaurant offers a taste of regional cuisine, often including fresh herbs, rice, and local specialties. Many reviewers have praised the meal’s quality, considering it part of the overall value.

Post-lunch, it’s time to head into Ninh Binh proper. This part of the journey introduces you to Vietnam’s lush countryside and limestone landscape, setting the stage for the afternoon activities.

More Great Tours Nearby

Tam Coc Boat Ride – Nature’s Masterpiece

The highlight for many is the boat cruise at Tam Coc. Board a small traditional boat paddled by a local rower, drifting beneath towering limestone cliffs and through caves. The scenery here is simply breathtaking—think of it as “Halong Bay on land,” with rice paddies, water buffalo, and lush greenery framing the scene.

The boat ride lasts about 1.5 hours and is a gentle, relaxing way to take in the natural beauty. Reviewers consistently mention how stunning the views are and how the boatmen’s skill makes the experience smooth and memorable. Be prepared to snap plenty of photos—these limestone formations and tranquil waterways are picture-perfect.

Hoa Lu – Vietnam’s Ancient Capital

Next, you visit Hoa Lu, the site of Vietnam’s first imperial capital in the 10th and 11th centuries. The temple dedicated to Vietnam’s first Emperor is peaceful, with well-maintained grounds that provide a perfect backdrop for photos. Your guide shares stories about the early Vietnamese dynasties, making history lively and accessible.

This stop offers a nice contrast to the natural scenery, adding a sense of historical depth. Reviewers have appreciated the informative commentary, which makes the site come alive.

Returning to Hanoi

After exploring Hoa Lu, your driver transports you back to Hanoi, arriving in the late afternoon or early evening. The trip ends with a sense of having seen both the cultural heartbeat and the stunning landscapes of Ninh Binh, all in a comfortable, intimate setting.

Why This Tour Works Well for Travelers

What makes this experience stand out is the combination of authentic cultural visits and breathtaking scenery, all delivered with a personal touch. The small-group size means you’re not just another face in a crowd, and Bruce Lee’s engaging explanations elevate the experience from sightseeing to understanding.

The inclusion of the incense village is a real bonus—it’s rare to find this stop on other tours, and it offers a genuine glimpse into local craftsmanship. The boat ride at Tam Coc is a visual and sensory highlight, especially for nature lovers.

While it’s a full day, the pace is relaxed enough to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. The meals are local and flavorful, adding to the immersive experience.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour costs $82 per person, which includes transportation, guide, entrance fees, and a Vietnamese lunch. The guide’s knowledge and personal attention contribute significantly to the overall value—many reviews praise Bruce Lee’s professionalism and friendliness.

The tour is suitable for most, but not ideal for wheelchair users or those over 95, as some walking and physical activity is involved. Be aware that it’s a long day, so travelers who prefer a leisurely pace or have mobility challenges might want to consider their comfort.

The small-group format ensures personalized interaction and fewer crowds, which many travelers find more enjoyable. The tour is flexible, with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind if your plans change.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour

This experience is perfect for those eager to see Vietnam’s cultural and natural highlights without the hassle of organizing transportation and tickets themselves. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy learning about local traditions, like incense-making, and appreciate stunning scenery.

History buffs will value the stories of Hoa Lu, while photography enthusiasts will revel in the limestone landscapes and bustling village scenes. Families with older children or those comfortable with some walking will find it a rewarding full-day adventure.

If you’re after a well-rounded, immersive day that balances culture, history, and natural beauty, this tour offers excellent value and genuine experiences.

FAQ

What is the price of the tour?
It costs $82 per person, which covers transportation, guide, entrance fees, and a Vietnamese lunch.

How long does the tour last?
The entire trip is about 10 hours, with starting times varying; check availability for specific departure hours.

What is included in the price?
Pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned vehicle, three bottles of water, entrance fees, the guide, and lunch.

Are drinks outside of water included?
No, additional drinks are not included, so you might want to bring some extra water or purchase beverages during the day.

Is the tour suitable for children or mobility-impaired travelers?
It’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those over 95 years old. The day involves some walking and physical activity.

What language is the guide’s commentary in?
English. Expect engaging explanations about the sites and Vietnamese culture.

Do we visit any historical sites?
Yes, Hoa Lu, the ancient Vietnamese capital, where you’ll learn about the country’s early dynasties.

How physically demanding is the boat ride?
It’s a relaxing paddle with no strenuous activity, but you should be comfortable sitting for about 1.5 hours.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, camera, and some cash for extra drinks or souvenirs.

In brief, this tour offers a well-rounded look at Vietnam’s cultural roots and natural beauty in a compact, personal setting. Perfect for those who want to experience authentic local crafts, enjoy stunning scenery, and learn from passionate guides—all in one day.

You can check availability for your dates here: