![[Private] Tam Coc Boat-ride & Bich Dong Pagoda - Day tour in Hanoi, Vietnam](https://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/attractions-splice-spp-720x480/06/df/34/2b.jpg)
[Private] Tam Coc Boat-ride & Bich Dong Pagoda - Day tour
Traveler rating
4.7/5
Based on 19 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is [Private] Tam Coc Boat-ride & Bich Dong Pagoda - Day tour worth booking?
[Private] Tam Coc Boat-ride & Bich Dong Pagoda - Day tour is a 8-hour experience in Hanoi, Vietnam, from $71 per person. It scores 62 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.7/5 rating across 19 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 62 / 100
- Rating
- 4.7/5 (19)
- Duration
- 8 hours
- From
- $71 per person
Most of day tours to Ninh Binh start from Hanoi at the same time and visit the sightseeing places at the same time. This tour actually includes the popular spots so it is normally quite crowded. Book this tour, we could discuss with you about the better timing to keep you away from the crowd as much as possible. Beside the flexibility, you will enjoy the personal high quality services from our team.
What you get
About this experience
Most of day tours to Ninh Binh start from Hanoi at the same time and visit the sightseeing places at the same time. This tour actually includes the popular spots so it is normally quite crowded. Book this tour, we could discuss with you about the better timing to keep you away from the crowd as much as possible. Beside the flexibility, you will enjoy the personal high quality services from our team.
What's included
Included
- Private transportation
- Bottled water on the vehicle
- Private English speaking tour guide
- Lunch
- Sightseeing and boat tickets
- Surcharges on fuel
Not included
- Travel insurance
- Drinks and other meals
- Tips and gratuities
- Personal expenses and others not mentioned clearly above.
What you'll see and do
In the morning Depart from your hotel in Hanoi early in the morning, the drive to Ninh Binh province takes you about 2,5 hours through the fertile land of the Red River Delta. Upon arrival, you will take 2-hour sampan boat trip at Tam Coc (Three Caves). This area is considered as “Inland Halong Bay” featured with karst formations. It is very beautiful scenery along the row with vertical sides of Limestone Mountains and rice paddy-fields. The local rowers will take you gently through three beautiful limestone caves with hundreds of stalactites above your heads. Back to the dock and transfer to a local restaurant for a Vietnamese lunch.
180 minutes here · Admission included
Bich Dong Pagoda
In the afternoon After lunch, you will jump on a bike for a stunning ride along the back roads through the beautiful scenery of towering karsts on the ground of ponds, rice paddies and rural villages in the area. On the bike, we will have as many stops as you want to take photographs. One of the stop is Bich Dong Pagoda. Bich Dong pagoda is an important religious place for the locals in the region. It comprises three structures: Ha (Low), Trung (Middle), and Thuong (Upper) pagodas in ascending order at the side of a rocky mountain. We will take a slow hike up to visit the three structures. Beside learning about the local belief, you will get a beautiful view when you reach the highest one. Thence, we pedal back to where we start. About 3:30 PM, we get back on our private vehicle and take the afternoon drive back to Hanoi. Arrive in Hanoi and finish the trip at your hotel.
180 minutes here · Admission included
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Custom Asia Travel
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos
![[Private] Tam Coc Boat-ride & Bich Dong Pagoda - Day tour in Hanoi, photo 2](https://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/attractions-splice-spp-720x480/06/df/34/43.jpg)
![[Private] Tam Coc Boat-ride & Bich Dong Pagoda - Day tour in Hanoi, photo 3](https://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/attractions-splice-spp-720x480/06/df/34/44.jpg)
![[Private] Tam Coc Boat-ride & Bich Dong Pagoda - Day tour in Hanoi, photo 4](https://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/attractions-splice-spp-720x480/06/df/34/45.jpg)
![[Private] Tam Coc Boat-ride & Bich Dong Pagoda - Day tour in Hanoi, photo 5](https://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/attractions-splice-spp-720x480/06/df/34/49.jpg)
![[Private] Tam Coc Boat-ride & Bich Dong Pagoda - Day tour in Hanoi, photo 6](https://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/attractions-splice-spp-720x480/06/df/34/4b.jpg)
![[Private] Tam Coc Boat-ride & Bich Dong Pagoda - Day tour in Hanoi, photo 7](https://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/attractions-splice-spp-720x480/06/df/34/4c.jpg)
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 19 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
7 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Photo opportunities
5 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Organization
5 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Food and drink
5 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
4 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Small groups
3 mentionsThe group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.
Traveler reviews
19 verified traveler reviews for [Private] Tam Coc Boat-ride & Bich Dong Pagoda - Day tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
The best moments ever
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ An Exceptional 12-Day Journey with Custom Asia Travel We recently completed an amazing 12-day trip planned by Custom Asia Travel, and I can honestly say it was an experience we will remember for a very long time. From the very beginning, the team listened carefully to what we wanted and created a beautifully tailored itinerary that was perfectly suited to our group. Every detail was thoughtfully considered — from the transfers to the excursions, guides and daily arrangements. It made such a difference knowing that everything had been organised professionally, allowing us to simply relax and enjoy our holiday. What impressed us most was the communication, flexibility and attention to detail throughout the entire journey. Whenever we had a question or needed something adjusted, the team was helpful, responsive and genuinely interested in making sure everything was right for us. The guides and drivers were professional and courteous, and the whole trip flowed smoothly from one destination to the next. We experienced so many beautiful places, wonderful hospitality and unforgettable moments that we would never have been able to organise as seamlessly on our own. A special thank you to Tracy for turning our 12-day holiday into such a memorable and stress-free experience. Your professionalism, care and dedication truly made a difference. I would highly recommend Custom Asia Travel to anyone looking for a personalised, well-organised and reliable travel company. We came home with beautiful memories, wonderful photographs and a real desire to travel with you again. Thank you, Custom Asia Travel, for an unforgettable journey! ❤️✈️🌏
Response from the operator: Hi Ayesa, reading your review truly means a lot to us. A 12-day trip has many moving parts, so we’re very happy to know that everything felt easy, well-paced, and carefully arranged for your group. Tracy and our team will be grateful to hear that their communication and flexibility helped you feel supported throughout the journey, while the guides and drivers made each destination flow smoothly into the next. Thank you for letting Custom Asia Travel be part of these special moments, we’re so glad the trip left you with beautiful memories and a wish to travel with us again
via Tripadvisor
Awesome boat ride, be prepared for the steps afterwards at the Fairy Cave & the temple.
We joined the queue of people and stepped onto the little boat. The "rower" then began rowing with this weird but effective get technique! From here the scenery was amazing! Definitely what we wanted with loads of photos taken and little tunnels gone through. The electric bus took us to the Fairy Cave then the temple up the hill - both involved a few unexpected steps as we were in things/ flip flops! They were worth it though and they finished off a great morning. Recommended? Hell yes for those views!
Response from the operator: Hi Coogee, this made us smile - what a great way to describe the experience. We’re so glad you enjoyed the boat ride and those incredible views, it really is something special. Sounds like the steps to the cave and temple were a bit of a surprise, but worth it in the end. Thank you for sharing your experience and for the enthusiastic recommendation!
via Tripadvisor
GREAT Private day in Ninh Binh
We booked a private day tour from Hanoi to Ninh Binh and thank you very much for this perfect day! Car was perfect and the day organisation too We had the chance to have Mr Thành as our guide and was very helpful and explained a lot of things about Vietnam. All the entrance fees was included and the lunch too We did the boat in the morning than visited pagodas in the afternoon Thank you
Response from the operator: Hi Jennifer, we’re so glad to hear your day trip to Ninh Binh was such a perfect experience! It’s great to know everything—from the car and organization to the boat ride, pagodas, and lunch—came together smoothly. Mr. Thành will be happy to hear how much you appreciated his guidance and insights. Thank you for choosing to explore with us!
via Tripadvisor
Fabulous company and amazing day tour.
We had such a fantastic day with Liam (and his driver) on our one day private Ninh Binh tour. We arrived at Ninh Binh after about 2 hours (stop included) and chose to do the bike ride to the pagoda first. It was so lovely to cycle enjoying the wonderful scenery as we went. We weren't rushed and were able to take photos as we wished. The pagoda was stunning and Liam was incredibly informative and very fun to be around. As we had a bit of time on our hands we cycled through countryside to a lake and temple, very peaceful and very beautiful. We enjoyed lunch at a local restaurant which was delicious. After lunch we enjoyed our tam coc boat ride. This was amazing, so peaceful,pretty and serene. A highlight of our holiday. The trip was easy to arrange and Rosie was especially helpful when we were booking the trip. I would highly recommend and would use this company again in the future.
Response from the operator: We’re so happy to hear your Ninh Binh day was such a highlight of your holiday! Rosie will be delighted to know her help made planning easy, and Liam (and our driver) will love hearing how much you enjoyed their care and company. It’s wonderful that the cycling, boat ride, and peaceful countryside gave you such special memories. Thank you for sharing your experience and for the kind recommendation — we’d love to welcome you again in the future!
via Tripadvisor
Very professionally well run tour - both with the travel consultant and on the day itself
Before booking our day tour to Tam Coc and Bich Dong, the travel consultant Ms. Rosie, answered all my email queries (there were over 10) regarding price, tailoring the itinerary, weather etc. The most important thing, which I didn't realise until I started doing other day tours in Vietnam was that Ms Rosie arranged for our group of three (my parents and I) to have a 16-seat van. Initially, I thought it was too big given that we only had three people. However, as she rightly pointed out, if we only had a standard 7-seat SUV, by the time you have the tour guide in the front passenger seat, one of the three of us would have to sit in the back row, which as we found out on other tours is very uncomfortable when on a long drive. On the day prior to our tour, Ms Rosie email and WhatsApped me to make sure that everything was in order for the following day. Our allocated tour guide was Mr Vu who was very knowledgeable, providing commentary as we made our way out of Hanoi to Ninh Binh. He explained the historical significance of the Hoa Lu Citadel, which we would not have learned if we had visited by ourselves. Next stop was the Bich Dong Pagoda which has a number of steps that my parents navigated with Mr Vu's guidance and care. After lunch, we visited Tam Coc which was the highlight of the trip. Even though the weather was very overcast, thankfully the rain held off and we were able to still enjoy the 90-minute boat ride which was expertly paddled using the rowers feet (not hands), which I had never seen before. I can only imagine how much more stunning it would look on a sunny day. Having said that, the overcast conditions meant that it was not hot and uncomfortable on the boat, but rather it was rather chilly (we visited on 6 March). All in all, we were very happy with the service received and would recommend this tour and Custom Asia Travel to anyone visiting Vietnam.
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 8 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $71 to $234
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 7
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Why this scores 62
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
[Private] Tam Coc Boat-ride & Bich Dong Pagoda - Day tour: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Hanoi.
How much does [Private] Tam Coc Boat-ride & Bich Dong Pagoda - Day tour cost?
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Prices start at $71 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Hanoi usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does [Private] Tam Coc Boat-ride & Bich Dong Pagoda - Day tour take?
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Plan for about 8 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Hanoi is not rushed.
Is [Private] Tam Coc Boat-ride & Bich Dong Pagoda - Day tour worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 62 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.7/5 across 19 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Hanoi, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule [Private] Tam Coc Boat-ride & Bich Dong Pagoda - Day tour?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is [Private] Tam Coc Boat-ride & Bich Dong Pagoda - Day tour suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 8-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book [Private] Tam Coc Boat-ride & Bich Dong Pagoda - Day tour?
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Around 7 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Hanoi can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Hanoi and add a light layer if any part of the 8-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does [Private] Tam Coc Boat-ride & Bich Dong Pagoda - Day tour start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Hanoi within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Hanoi?
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On Outty we rank every Hanoi experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Ha Giang Loop 3-Day Small Group - from Hanoi, (Group/Individual) HANOI STREET FOOD TOUR, Incense Village Quang Phu Cau, Hat Village and Hanoi City Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Hanoi?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Hanoi?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in [Private] Tam Coc Boat-ride & Bich Dong Pagoda - Day tour?
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Included: Private transportation; Bottled water on the vehicle; Private English speaking tour guide; Lunch; and Sightseeing and boat tickets. Not included: Travel insurance; Drinks and other meals; Tips and gratuities; and Personal expenses and others not mentioned clearly above. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does [Private] Tam Coc Boat-ride & Bich Dong Pagoda - Day tour include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 1074 listed pickup locations in and around Hanoi. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is [Private] Tam Coc Boat-ride & Bich Dong Pagoda - Day tour offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for [Private] Tam Coc Boat-ride & Bich Dong Pagoda - Day tour?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
What happens to [Private] Tam Coc Boat-ride & Bich Dong Pagoda - Day tour if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Hanoi. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about [Private] Tam Coc Boat-ride & Bich Dong Pagoda - Day tour?
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Across 19 reviews averaging 4.7 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, photo opportunities, organization. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
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