Ninh Binh: Rice planting and fishing by basket tour

Ninh Binh: Rice Planting and Fishing by Basket Tour
Location: Dong Bac, Vietnam
Country: Vietnam
Rating: 4.8 (9 reviews)
Price: $25 per person
Duration: About 1.5 hours
Supplier: Pu Luong Altitude joint stock company

What makes this tour special?
This experience offers a rare chance to step into the shoes of a Vietnamese farmer, learning traditional techniques like rice planting and fishing with the unique “nom” tool. You’ll get up close with local farming life, surrounded by breathtaking rural scenery that keeps the experience grounded in authenticity.

Two things we love: First, the hands-on nature of the activities — no passive sightseeing here, you’ll actually plant rice and fish alongside local farmers, making it both fun and educational. Second, the personal stories shared by guides, which add depth and context to the scenery, making the landscape come alive with meaning.

One potential consideration: This tour involves putting on traditional farming clothes and working outdoors, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with getting a little muddy or wet. Also, it’s not ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues.

If you enjoy authentic local experiences and don’t mind a bit of physical activity, this tour will suit you perfectly. It’s especially appealing if you want a meaningful glimpse into Vietnamese rural life beyond the usual tourist spots, making it a memorable cultural connection.

Key Points

• Authentic Farming Experience: Learn rice planting and fishing using traditional tools, guided by local farmers.
• Scenic Rural Setting: Enjoy stunning views of Vietnam’s lush countryside and rice paddies.
• Personal Stories and Culture: Guides share insights into local farming customs and rural life.
• Hands-On Activities: Get involved in planting rice and fishing, making the experience engaging and memorable.
• Family-Run Atmosphere: Interact with welcoming local families and see farm life firsthand.
• Affordable Value: At $25, this tour offers a genuine cultural experience at a reasonable price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

The Meeting Point and Arrival

The journey begins at Buffalo Cave, about 2 km from Tam Coc wharf, located conveniently on the route from Tam Coc to Bich Dong pagoda. The signboard next to Thung Nang parking lot makes it easy to find. You can arrive on foot, bike, or by taxi, and the location’s proximity to popular spots makes it a straightforward addition to your day.

We appreciate how the meeting point is clear and accessible, setting a relaxed tone for the experience ahead.

The Morning Itinerary and Activities

The tour kicks off around 8:30 am, with a gentle start of feeding and showering the buffalo, and even riding them if you’re feeling adventurous. It’s a charming way to connect with farm life — a simple, genuine activity that many reviews mention as a highlight.

At 9:00 to 10:00 am, you’ll join local farmers in catching fish with baskets. Using the traditional “nom,” a unique fishing tool, you’ll learn how local fishermen catch fish by hand. Multiple reviews praise this part as “a lot of fun” and an activity that’s both informative and playful. Expect to get a bit wet, but it’s all part of the authentic experience.

Following fishing, you’ll move into rice planting from around 10:00 to 10:30 am. Guides explain the full cycle of rice cultivation, giving you insight into how this staple crop sustains local communities. You’ll don traditional farming clothes and step into the fields, planting rice alongside locals — a hands-on activity that makes the cycle of rice farming tangible.

Throughout the morning, guides share stories about local culture and farming traditions, adding a personal touch that many travelers find memorable. It’s a great opportunity to ask questions and learn about rural Vietnamese life from those who live it.

Additional Highlights

The tour also includes a waterfall bath and a visit to Buffalo Cave, although these are optional and may be skipped depending on your schedule. The afternoon tour runs from 2:00 pm to 3:30 pm, offering flexibility for afternoon plans.

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The Experience’s Pacing and Group Size

Limited to 8 participants, the small group setting ensures plenty of personal attention and opportunities for interaction. This intimate size enhances the authentic feel and allows guides to tailor the experience slightly to your interests.

Practicalities and What’s Included

For $25, you’ll get an English-speaking guide, all farming tools, and a bottle of water. You only need to bring change of clothes and flip-flops — perfect for slipping into the fields and getting muddy.

No hidden fees are added, but remember that VAT and any other extras are not included. The tour is designed as a full culture rather than a passive sightseeing trip, making it a good value for the price.

What Travelers Say

Reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery. Ritesh describes it as “a great experience” with fun fishing activities, while Rikke highlights how much she “enjoyed visiting the farm” and learning about rice planting. Chantal notes the warm hospitality of local families, though she mentions that she didn’t get to do the buffalo feeding — an example of how small variances can happen in rural settings.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you appreciate authentic cultural activities and are happy to get a little muddy or wet. It suits adventurous travelers, families with older children, and anyone curious about Vietnamese farming traditions. It’s less appropriate for very young children under 3 or those with mobility issues, given the outdoor and physical nature of the activities.

Final Thoughts: Why Choose This Tour?

This rice planting and fishing tour in Ninh Binh offers a rare chance to connect with local farmers and witness the true rhythm of rural life. For a modest price, you’ll gain insight into Vietnam’s farming heritage while enjoying scenic views that are postcard-perfect.

The interactive nature—planting rice, fishing with baskets, and hearing personal stories—makes this more than just a sightseeing stop. It becomes a meaningful experience that sticks with you long after you leave the fields.

If you’re looking for authenticity, hands-on activities, and a glimpse into traditional Vietnamese life, this tour delivers those in spades. It’s an ideal choice for those wanting a deeper cultural connection outside of busy tourist spots, especially if you enjoy learning by doing.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s best for children over 3 years old who can handle outdoor activities, as the tour involves some physical work and outdoor exposure.

How long does the tour last?
The activity lasts around 1.5 hours, starting at 8:30 am or 2:00 pm, depending on your choice.

What should I bring?
Bring a change of clothes and flip-flops to comfortably participate in the farming activities.

Where do I meet the guide?
At Buffalo Cave, about 2 km from Tam Coc wharf, next to Thung Nang parking lot. It’s easy to reach by bike, taxi, or on foot.

Is this a group tour?
Yes, limited to 8 participants, ensuring a small-group experience with plenty of personal attention.

What’s included in the price?
An English-speaking guide, farming tools, and a bottle of water.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility in your travel planning.

In the end, this tour in Ninh Binh offers more than just sightseeing — it’s a chance to live a day in the life of a Vietnamese farmer. If you’re eager to explore a more genuine side of Vietnam, enjoy scenic landscapes, and don’t mind getting your hands dirty, it’s an experience worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: