Tam Coc, Trang An, or Van Long for a boat tour in Ninh Binh?

Ninh Binh, a picturesque province located south of Hanoi, charms travelers from all over the world with its exceptional natural and cultural heritage. The three gems of Ninh Binh—Tam Coc, Trang An, and Van Long—each possess unique characteristics and atmospheres, creating an enticing challenge for travelers when selecting their destination for a visit.  

In this article, let Authentik Vietnam guide you to your perfect destination, whether you are looking for adventure or a serene getaway in nature.

Trang An

Inscribed in UNESCO’s World Heritage List and proudly being the first site in Southeast Asia to be acknowledged as a mixed natural and cultural heritage, Trang An is a true treasure of Vietnam. The site is reputed for its impressive system of caves and idyllic rivers that wind around the breathtaking karst landscape.

A spectacular nature setting

A boat tour in Trang An is surely one of the best ways to explore its stunning nature. This enjoyable journey, often accompanied by a local guide, provides a unique perspective on the majestic karst formations that rise dramatically from the rivers. As the wooden rowboat glides peacefully over the emerald waters, visitors will be able to plunge into the serene atmosphere that prevails in the region. Each excursion promises a memorable and educational time owing to captivating stories about the region’s history, traditions, and wildlife, told by the knowledgeable guide and their love for their native land.

Boat trip in Trang An, Ninh Binh

A rich cultural heritage

More than just a breathtaking natural setting, Trang An is reputed for its significant cultural value. The region is home to many temples and pagodas, witnesses of Vietnam’s rich history, among which the Bich Dong Pagoda and the Tran Temple stand out as must-visit sites, remarking on traditional Vietnamese architecture as well as the seclusion ambiance amidst nature. These monuments are often surrounded by local legends and myths, adding a mystical dimension to the experience and enriching the traveler’s insight into the beliefs and values of the locals. 

Trang An and its popularity

With Trang An’s growing reputation, it is understandable that this attraction could be crowded, especially during peak periods. Boat tours, while often magnificent, should be expected with moments of congestion on the rivers. Instead of a peaceful getaway, some may feel uneasy due to the density of visitors, making the experience less private and lacking the tranquility they seek. While staying as beautiful as ever, the landscape might appear less appealing due to the overcrowded scene.

Given this context, Trang An as a destination deserves reconsideration. While Trang An is undeniably rich in heritage and scenery, it’s essential to acknowledge the overcrowding situation that can sometimes hamper the search for tranquility. 

Trang An from above

Explore Trang An by rowboat 

Kong Studio

>> Read more: Trang An, Ninh Binh: A - Z Travel Guide

Tam Coc

About a 2-hour ride from Hanoi, Tam Coc is renowned for its enchanting landscape, featuring meandering rivers, impressive limestone formations, and lush rice fields as vast as the eyes can see.

Tam Coc in rice season

An immersive journey amidst nature

Embarking on a rowboat tour in Tam Coc, visitors are invited on an adventure through peaceful winding canals and fascinating caves. The three caves of Tam Coc—Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba—distinguished by their stalactite and stalagmite formations, promise an unforgettable time. As travelers cruise through these natural caves, they are transported to another world, where time seems to stand still, allowing them to immerse themselves completely in nature.   

Boat tour in Tam Coc, Ninh Binh in the season of waterlily

Waterlily season in Tam Coc, Ninh Binh

The rustic magic

Tam Coc is famous for its rich biodiversity. The rivers and wetlands in the area are home to a diverse range of birds and wildlife, providing nature lovers and photographers with fantastic opportunities to capture animals in their natural habitats. The sounds of birds singing and the gentle flow of water create a peaceful atmosphere that invites contemplation.

A striking beauty and the booming crowds

The increasing popularity of Tam Coc, in tandem with boosting the local economy, presents a challenge, notably during the high season when the site attracts a massive influx of visitors. The boat wharf faces overcrowding, turning the supposed serene ride into a mass activity and hindering access to those who wish to approach Tam Coc’s landscapes in a more intimate way.

The organized tours pose a problem regarding the authenticity of the experience. While handy for travelers on a tight schedule, these tours often offer little flexibility and bind visitors to a pre-set itinerary without any real interaction with the local culture. This risks reducing the authenticity of the experience and leaving the impression that Tam Coc is rather a transient destination than a place of exploration. 

Therefore, those who are planning to visit Tam Coc should plan their trip carefully. It's advisable to schedule your visit on off-peak hours for a more serene experience. Additionally, visitors can opt for less-frequented back routes around Tam Coc or less-visited alternatives to admire the off-the-beaten-track hidden treasures. 

Overall, while Tam Coc remains a must-see destination in Ninh Binh for its breathtaking beauty, it's essential to recognize that other nearby locations, such as Van Long, can be just as rewarding, with far fewer crowds.

>> Read more: Tam Coc - Ninh Binh Travel Guide

Van Long

Lesser known than Tam Coc and Trang An, Van Long offers a calmer and more authentic trip, inviting visitors to unveil Vietnam’s natural beauty from another angle. The landscapes of Van Long, boasting golden rice paddies and majestic karst formations, rival those of Tam Coc in radiance while offering unrivaled serenity.

Why choose Van Long as your destination

There are countless reasons to consider Van Long as your next travel destination. For those yearning for serenity and a respite from the frenetic pace of typical tourism, this exquisite region provides the perfect sanctuary. Here, you can wander freely, immersing yourself in the beauty of your surroundings at your leisure, unburdened by the throngs of tourists. In contrast to conventional guided tours that often transform exploration into a crowded affair, Van Long invites you to engage with nature in a more intimate and reflective manner.

Explore Van Long by bike

An immersive journey away from the crowds

Boat trips in Van Long offer an authentic experience, setting them apart from standard tours. Each paddling journey is unique, as local paddlers share their insights about the area's ecosystem, enhancing the experience for travelers. Observing wildlife in their natural settings while quietly navigating the waters leaves lasting memories. Nature enthusiasts will particularly appreciate the Delacour's langurs, a rare and endangered species that draws attention. These reflective moments foster a deep connection with the environment, encouraging visitors to appreciate Vietnam's rich biodiversity.

Boat tour in Van Long, Ninh Binh

An opportunity to deeper insight into the local’s culture

Taking part in an embroidery workshop is certainly one of the best things to do in Van Long. The hands-on workshop is accompanied by skilled local artisans and introduces travelers to this traditional art that requires creativity and patience. Under the guidance of passionate experts, participants create their own work using basic techniques and take it home as a souvenir. After this in-depth experience with artisans, visitors gain not only an insight into local craftsmanship but also fascinating stories about the history and significance of embroidery in Vietnam.

Embroidery workshop with Ms. Dinh Thi Lam in Lang Van village

Another not-to-be-missed experience when in Van Long is meeting with traditional music artists. In Van Long, visitors can listen to entrancing melodies played on folk instruments. These performances are more than just entertainment but are often accompanied by explanations of the origins of the music and its role in Vietnamese culture. During the encounter, visitors can also try to play these instruments with the help of the musicians while learning about local customs and traditions through music.

At Thung La Temple

Other than embroidery art and music, the cuisine is another must-try in Van Long. Coming to Van Long, visitors can taste scrumptious home-made Vietnamese dishes, such as com lam (rice in bamboo tube), which infuses a unique flavor owing to steaming in a natural environment. Van Long’s free-range chicken is also a must-try that gives the richness of local ingredients.

Cultural exchanges

These encounters, which can not be found in mainstream tourist circuits, unfold the true facets of Vietnamese life. Local artisans, musicians, and cooks generously share stories behind their works, interwoven with local folklore and traditions, enriching visitors’ understanding of Vietnamese culture. Moreover, these exchanges reveal local communities’ unwavering efforts to preserve their heritage in the age of modernization.

>> Read more: Everything you need to know about Van Long Nature Reserve: Complete guide

For more information  

While Trang An and Tam Coc are favored by many travelers, Van Long is noteworthy for an exploration. This peaceful land awaits you with its rustic charm and authenticity, far from the hustle and bustle. It is in such a setting that the true essence of Vietnam is presented, promising a memorable experience. 

Through captivating activities, including craft workshops, musical encounters, and culinary discoveries, visitors to Van Long are invited to plunge into the region’s vibrant tapestry of heritage and nature. This cultural journey in Van Long, far away from mainstream tourist circuits, enables an authentic and memorable vision of Vietnam, allowing travelers to leave with indelible memories and a deeper understanding of this fascinating country.

We hope that this article has been useful to you in deciding between Tam Coc, Trang An, and Van Long for your next trip to Ninh Binh. Feel free to contact us if you need any detailed advice regarding your trip to Vietnam via email at info@authentikvietnam.com and/or +84 (0) 9 12 12 10 91 on Whatsapp. See you soon in Vietnam!

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>> The 11 must-see attractions of Ninh Binh 

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