Peddle & Paddle through the Paddies

Bite-sized trip

Location:
Ninh Binh
Duration:
2 days / 1 night (flexible)
Price:
From £ 485.- per adult (excluding flights)
From £ 170, - per child (up to 11 years)

With the filming of a Hollywood blockbuster to its name, you'd be forgiven for thinking the spectacular scenery of Ninh Binh would be awash with tourists, however the region known as "dry Halong Bay" is anything but. Follow in the footsteps of King Kong as you delve into the heart of Northern Vietnam's picturesque countryside - meeting local farmers as you cycle through rice paddies and set sail on a small sampan boat along meandering streams to hidden caves and temples.

Day 1 – Arrival in Ninh Binh

You’ll be collected from your hotel in Hanoi around lunchtime and make the scenic two hour journey by private car to Hoa Lu, around 110km south. If you’re coming from Bai Tu Long Bay, this will likely be a 4 hour journey. You’ll be taken straight to your authentic accommodation, a thatched bungalow built from locally sourced materials and located in the heart of the peaceful Tam Coc region, with spectacular scenery all around. Bicycle rental is available and there are endless trails to enjoy.

Day 2 – Bike & boat trip and departure

It’s an early morning today as you and your family set off with your private guide on a cycling trip around the valley, with the chance to meet local farmers and the buffalos starting their working day. You’ll continue to a nature reserve home to around 40,000 birds – great for wildlife lovers! You’ll also take a leisurely sampan boat ride along rivers surrounded by limestone outcrops and explore ancient temples and hidden grottoes during an action-packed morning.

After lunch it’ll be time to move on to your next destination and you’ll likely be returning to Hanoi in time to catch a flight or train. However as this is a private trip, you can move at your own steam and your guide and driver will be flexible to your needs.

If you’d like to spend longer immersing yourself in some of Vietnam’s most spectacular rural landscape, you can! Just speak to your travel specialist about adding an extra night to your trip.