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The 6 Best Tours in Ninh Binh Province
Ninh Binh Province is a slice of Vietnam that feels like a living postcard. Think lush rice paddies, towering limestone karsts, and ancient caves—all within easy reach of Hanoi. What makes it stand out as a tour destination? Its diverse landscapes and rich biodiversity make every trip feel like stepping into a different world. We especially love taking visitors to Cuc Phuong National Park for its mix of wildlife, ancient trees, and caves, or cruising through Van Long's wetlands to spot water buffalo and rare birds. Whether you're into hiking, wildlife rescue centers, or boat rides, Ninh Binh offers a genuinely authentic experience.
For those planning their visit, we’ve rounded up the top six tours, each with its own flavor and charm. Some focus on nature and wildlife, like visiting Cuc Phuong National Park, while others balance adventure with cultural sights, like boat cruises in Van Long. Whatever your style, there's an option here to make your Ninh Binh trip memorable. Let's dive into the details.
1. From Ninh Binh: Visit Cuc Phuong National Park – Van Long
At number 1 on our list, this tour combines a visit to Vietnam’s largest nature reserve, Cuc Phuong, with a scenic boat cruise at Van Long. Starting from Ninh Binh, it’s a full-day adventure that packs in biodiversity, trekking, and wildlife rescue. The tour includes exploring the Endangered Primate Rescue Center, where you’ll see primates that need help, and trekking to the “1000 Years Old Tree”, one of the oldest living organisms in the country. The itinerary includes a local restaurant lunch, giving you a taste of regional flavors.
What sets this tour apart is its blend of nature conservation and relaxing boat rides. The boat cruise at Van Long lasts about 1.5 hours and offers fantastic photo opportunities of the wetlands and limestone cliffs. The guided walk through the forest provides insight into Vietnam’s flora and fauna. With a 4.2/5 rating from nine reviews and a reasonable price of $68, it’s a great option for those wanting a comprehensive day immersed in nature.
Bottom line: Ideal for wildlife lovers and those wanting a varied, full-day experience with nature and scenic boat rides.
2. Ninh Binh: Cuc Phuong National Park Day Trip with Lunch
Number 2 on our list is a full-day tour focused on exploring the oldest forest in Vietnam and visiting the Endangered Primate Rescue Center. For just $50, this tour is especially appealing for nature enthusiasts eager to learn about conservation efforts firsthand. Starting from Ninh Binh, you’ll spend about 40 minutes traveling to Cuc Phuong, with plenty of opportunities for photography and sightseeing.
The tour includes guided sightseeing, including visiting the Nguoi Xua Cave and trekking to the 200-step climb to the cave, where prehistoric artifacts have been found. The lunch is served in the park, giving you a chance to enjoy local dishes in a natural setting. The highlight is the guided walk through the lush forests and the chance to see the ancient flora and fauna.
A recent review highlights the educational aspect: “Learned so much about primates and the park’s history,” says a traveler. The tour is best suited for those wanting an immersive nature experience that’s both educational and physically engaging.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers interested in conservation, hiking, and learning about Vietnam’s natural heritage on a budget.
3. CUC PHUONG NATIONAL PARK – VAN LONG DAI LY TOUR DAY TRIP
Number 3 offers a small group experience exploring Cuc Phuong’s forests and Van Long’s wetlands. Starting from Ninh Binh, this tour combines hiking and boating over a full day, with a total price of $68. It’s a great pick for travelers who prefer a more intimate group setting. The tour features a visit to the Endangered Primates Rescue Center, a hike into the Ancient Human Cave and 1000-year-old Tree, plus a boat cruise through Van Long’s eco-tourism area.
This tour is notable for its flexibility—you’ll have free time for photos, exploring, and relaxing. The guide provides insights into the ecological importance of the parks, and the small group size ensures personalized attention. The rating of 3.3/5 suggests some room for improvement, but many travelers enjoy the comprehensive itinerary and local guide.
If you love combining trekking, wildlife, and wetland scenery in one day, this tour could be an excellent choice. It’s best suited for adventurous travelers comfortable with a packed schedule and some walking.
Bottom line: A well-rounded option for those who want a blend of hiking, wildlife, and boat rides with a smaller group experience.
$68 per person
4. From Ninh Binh: Cuc Phuong National Park Day Trip
This highly-rated tour is perfect for travelers wanting to maximize their time exploring Cuc Phuong. For just $48, it offers a full-day experience that includes visiting the Endangered Primate Rescue Center, trekking through the forest, and seeing the 1000-year-old tree. The tour is praised for its comprehensive itinerary and expert guides who share insightful information about the flora and fauna.
What’s particularly attractive is the timing—with a 5/5 review rating, many visitors appreciate the well-organized schedule and delicious lunch. The tour emphasizes nature exploration with walks to the Cave of Prehistoric Man and opportunities to photograph the dense jungle.
If you prefer a shorter, efficient trip that hits all the highlights, this tour fits the bill. It’s suitable for active travelers who want to avoid overextending their day but still see the key points of Cuc Phuong.
Bottom line: A great value option that covers the highlights with a relaxed pace and good reviews.
$48 per person
5. Ninh Binh: Cuc Phuong National Park – The Best Trekking Tour
Number 5 appeals to trekkers and outdoor lovers interested in extensive jungle hikes. This tour emphasizes Cuc Phuong’s biodiversity, visiting the Endangered Primate Rescue Center and trekking into the thick forests to discover the flora and fauna. The guide leads you through trails that showcase the park’s diverse ecosystems and ancient trees like the “1000 Years Old Tree” and the “Ancient Tree.”
Pricing isn’t listed, but the focus here is on deep exploration rather than just sightseeing. It’s ideal for fit travelers who want to spend hours immersed in nature, with opportunities to see prehistoric caves and enjoy remote jungle scenery. The tour’s strength is its dedication to hiking and ecological education.
While it might not be suitable for those wanting a relaxed day or with mobility concerns, it’s perfect for those craving an active, detailed experience of Vietnam’s premier biodiversity site.
Bottom line: Best for active travelers who want a full day of hiking and wildlife spotting in Cuc Phuong.
$41 per person
6. Small Group: Cuc Phuong National Park 1 day pick up Ninh Binh
This small group tour from Tam Coc focuses on history and conservation. It includes visiting the Endangered Primate Rescue Center, the Cuc Phuong Museum, and the Historic Man’s Cave, along with a tasty lunch featuring regional dishes. The itinerary also takes you to the Thousand Years Old Tree, blending cultural and natural sights.
The tour’s 4.4/5 rating reflects its popularity among travelers who value personalized attention. It’s ideal for those who want a rundown of Cuc Phuong’s cultural and ecological sites in just one day. The visit to archaeological relics and the rescue center make this tour both educational and engaging.
Suitable for history buffs and nature lovers alike, the tour provides a good balance of activities. It’s priced at $52, making it a competitive choice for a well-rounded experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want a diverse mix of natural, historical, and conservation sites in one day.
$52 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour in Ninh Binh
When selecting a tour, consider your interests and physical fitness. If wildlife and conservation speak to you, tours focusing on Cuc Phuong’s rescue centers and forests are ideal. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the full-day Cuc Phuong trip for its excellent value. Active explorers might prefer the trekking-focused tour number 5, while those wanting a relaxed, guided experience should look at the small group day trip.
Weather can also influence your choice. Tours that involve trekking are best in dry seasons, while boat rides at Van Long are enjoyable year-round. Booking early is a good idea, especially for popular tours with top ratings. Remember to check availability and starting times to align with your travel plans.
Final Thoughts
Ninh Binh offers a diverse array of tours that cater to different interests—from wildlife conservation and hiking to scenic boat cruises. If you’re after a comprehensive day immersed in nature, the From Ninh Binh: Visit Cuc Phuong National Park – Van Long stands out. For active travelers eager for a deep hike, Tour 5 is a great choice. Those interested in culture and history will find the small group tour appealing.
No matter your style, booking these tours in advance will ensure you secure a spot during the busy season. With so many options, you’re sure to find a Ninh Binh adventure that fits your travel personality and makes your trip truly unforgettable.