Trang An Boat Tour - Ninh Binh travel guide 2025

The Trang An boat tour glides through Ninh Binh's famous karst scenery, slipping beneath towering limestone peaks and into historic caves. Trang An is a city of Ninh Binh and is known for breathtakingly beautiful landscapes, full of historic sites which were even featured in Hollywood Movies!

This full-day trip will cover the Trang An Landscape Complex, the UNESCO World Heritage Site; no less than one of the wonders of the world, featuring hundreds of high karst peaks, deep valleys, and a system of mysterious caves, probably to be seen by taking a boat trip right inside the cave. 

In case you want to really explore the best caves in Vietnam besides the ones in Ninh Binh, check out Phong Nha. It is a hidden gem of Central Vietnam which many don't even know. Phong Nha from Ninh Binh is around 8 hours (~400 KM).

Coming back to Trang An, you will be able to enjoy an ancient temple, villages, and traces of movie scenarios shot here in Vietnam.

Below is a guide on everything one might want to know in preparation for a Trang An boat tour, from purchasing a ticket for departure to dinner at the popular Sen Trang An Vietnamese Restaurant. 
This boat tour takes visitors gliding along the winding river, under towering limestone cliffs and through silent caves.

Note: We have updated this tour guide as of September 2025 for latest Ninh Binh boat tour ticket prices, best routes, opening hours and some hidden tips!

Discovering Trang An Landscape Complex

Trang An Landscape Complex presents another wonder of nature. Composed of an inescapable maze of limestone karst peaks rising abruptly from emerald green rice fields and meandering rivers, the geological evolution during millions of years has indeed produced this scenic landscape in Vietnam. It is also highly biodiverse-in terms of birds, fishes, or even larger wildlife-one gets to see while gliding through the river, with lush greenery across the landscape, almost depicting it to be some sort of tropical paradise.

But Trang An is not only a natural wonder, for it holds even historic and cultural significance too. Around the complex are scattered ancient temples and pagodas, the vestiges of times past in Vietnam. It adds mystique to the landscape, too, and can turn what could have been just a simple boat tour into a journey through time. Unesco has sanctified the landscape complex of Trang An as a world heritage site due to its outstanding universal value to be preserved. Once you discover it, you will understand it is one of the treasures of humankind.

Planning a Trip to Ninh Binh

It is also set in Northern Vietnam, lying about 100 km south of the Hanoi capital. It is a very popular destination both for domestic and international tourists due to its extraordinary nature and civilization.

Getting to Ninh Binh is not at all difficult. You can reach Ninh binh from Hanoi through the following means:

• By Train: Count about 2-3 hours. A number of the trains are leaving each day from Hanoi main station.

• By bus: There are buses leaving for Ning Binh from all the three bus stations of Ha Noi generally in 2 hours. We would recommend using the Vexere app to book bus tickets in Vietnam which has options to pay in cash to the driver or pay by credit card online.

• By car/motorbike: From Hanoi to Ninh Binh by car takes about 2 hours by driving along AH1 High-way.

On arriving in Ninh Binh, your range will go from luxury resorts to lowly guesthouses. Whichever fits your wallet, you are assured to get one that will make a great spot from where a boat tour is just round the corner from the complex. If you want to see the authentic Ninh Binh, then we would recommend staying in homestays in Trang An. We especially loved Trang An due to the laid back vibe of the village except for the mosquitos!  

Travelling Routes of Trang An Boat Tour

Trang An contains three courses of boat trips to manifest various faces of the landscape complex. Three routes of the boat trips would take 2-3 hours each, through a different number of caves and temples.

Here's a brief overview of those three tracks:

• Route 1: The Classic Tour (3-4 hours)

• Route 2: The Scenic Tour (2-2.5 hours)

• Route 3: The Adventure Trail (3 hours)

Which route to choose basically depends upon the kind of interest that one has. If you history, you should choose Route 1. A lover of nature can take either Route 2 or Route 3.  
Route 2 and 3 shows the sites where the Hollywood movie Kong - Skull Island was shot.

Option 1: The Classic Ride

The Classic Journey is the most popular route in Route 1 among tourists. It has captured nine caves and three temples that combine natural and cultural heritage. This trip will cover some popular caves in Trang An: Toi Cave and Sang Cave. In addition, the tour also covers the visit to Tran Temple, Trinh Temple, and Khong Residence: each place has another face of history and significance.

Route 2: The Scenic Expedition

Route 2 - Spectacled Trip: Most favourite of nature lovers, covers four temples and four caves, mainly focuses on the marvelously good looking karst formations with biodiversity value of Trang An including Lam cave and Vang Cave.

This is a great chance to see many birds and view some wildlife. You'll go to visit Thanh Cao Son Temple and Suoi Tien Temple, too, which are situated in the most beautiful natural sceneries.

Route 3: The Adventure Trail

Route 3 is the Adventure Trail; it's the longest route regarding both distance and length. It covers three caves and three temples, similar to Route 1, but it also includes visiting the film set of Kong: Skull Island.

This is also a perfect route for movie enthusiasts and those who love adventure; besides the place of the shooting, you will get to see some of the least visited caves and temples.

Buy Your Entrance Boat Ticket to Trang An

Buying a Trang An departure boat ticket is quite simple. You can buy them right at the ticket office on-site, or you can book online through the official website or some trusted tour operators.

The ticket price for the Trang An boat tour in 2025 is 250,000 VND per person, approximately 10 USD. Each boat can accommodate up to four passengers, excluding the rower. If your group is smaller, you may need to share the ride with other travelers to fill the boat. Alternatively, if you prefer a private experience, you can purchase additional tickets to reserve the entire boat for yourself!

We have included the link for google maps to reach Trang An ticket office here.

Following are some things to consider when buying your ticket:

• Prices will include the boat trip itself, inclusive of the resident oarsman/ guide.

• It can only carry four passengers in each boat.

• First come is the first served in selling tickets.

• Ticket counters open at 7 am and close at 5 pm.

Don't forget to keep your ticket for the length of the tour.

What to Expect from Your Trang An Boat Tour

This boat tour in Ninh Binh will take anyone into the wrappings of time and nature. A serene glide on the river, the voyage will be surrounded by tall limestone karst, greenery, and tranquility.

A local rower guide will then take the boat into the caves and channels. Each cavern differs - from the stalactites hanging from the ceiling to the cool, echoing darkness of a channel. It is surreal - and many visitors are agog.

Temples and pagodas give this tour a sort of spiritual dimension. Tourists are allowed to visit these sites during stopover.

It also gives a venue for bird watching and wildlife viewing in Vietnam. Trang An Landscape Complex houses several species, one of the reasons it is a haven to nature lovers.

Finally, feel the serenity on the boat: the soft lapping of the water, the whispering wind, and faraway calls of birds create a symphony of tones. It is high time for reflection, taking in all the beauty of Trang An.

We would suggest just relaxing and taking in nature!

Capturing It: Quick Tips for Photography for the Boat Tour

While photographic opportunities along the Trang An Boat Tour are basically unlimited, from towering karst formations down to reflective waterways-a picture around every bend-really catching the beauty of Trang An involves much more than a good camera. First of all, pay attention to the light; early morning or late afternoon is the best time for shooting because it isn't so strong and doesn't give severe shadows or burned-out images. Besides, remember that in Trang An, the conditions change very fast, so be ready to adjust your camera settings in due time.

But be very careful taking pictures when the boat sails through low caves as some of them are pretty low so mind your head to prevent any injury!

Secret Tour: If you are looking to find a similar but even more hidden tour like Trang An which many people don't know about, you can check out Luwuk Banggai islands in Indonesia which is one of the best hidden places in Indonesia which we have personally done ourselves and loved like crazy! Its not too far from Vietnam.

Dinner with the view of the river: Sen Trang An Restaurant

Nothing like a good meal after a day of traveling: head to Sen Trang An Vietnamese Restaurant for a hearty meal. It's located just off the departure point for the boats, facing the river and several quiet areas. Sen Trang An's menu truly takes one on a gastronomical ride through Vietnamese cuisine; from fresh spring rolls to bowls of steaming pho, all are made with locally grown and produced ingredients. Special mention must be made of the house specialty: grilled goat meat, native only to Ninh Binh. Refuel after your boat tour or leisurely have your lunch before you get down to business-whatever it is, make sure you pay a visit to Sen Trang An Vietnamese Restaurant. Delicious food combined with great views of the complex will provide a great way to steep oneself in local culture.

Preservation of the Trang An Landscape Complex

More than a tourist destination, Trang An Landscape Complex is a fragile ecosystem whose protection is of quintessential importance. Local authorities, along with the community, do their best in protecting this place and its rich biodiversity.

The conservation of values of Trang An Landscape Complex is crucial, and these conservation efforts involve important visitors. Tourists, through the regulations which have been laid down such as not littering and not disturbing the life, need to be able to help in sustaining this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The protection of the Trang An Landscape Complex is a fragile balance between tourism and social ecological responsibility. It reminds us that we can be blessed with the world's natural wonders and, at the same time, be part of protecting those wonders for times to come.

Combining Your Boat Tour with Other Ninh Binh Attractions

While this is true, one of the highlights of any visit to Ninh Binh is the Trang An Boat Tour; it offers so much more. From ancient temples to nature reserves, Ninh Binh is a treasury of attractions.

Ninh Binh attractions include:

• Visiting Hoa Lu - the ancient capital

• Admiring the beauty of Bai Dinh Pagoda

• Paying a visit to Cuc Phuong National Park

These are easily combined into your boat tour and can turn this into a full-day trip.

Remember, this is all about the right mix on such journeys. Let the serenity from the boating mix with the cultural importance of the temples, the appeal of nature in the parks, giving one the wholesome experience of all that Ninh Binh has in store.

Trang An Boat Tour Ninh Binh: Practical Tips

• First, plan according to the time of the year. It is better to visit Trang An between November and April when it is cool and the landscapes are full. It is better to avoid rainy seasons that start from May until October since boat tours would cancel on occasions when the weather is not cooperating.

• Here are some essentials to pack for your boat tour:

• Sunscreen and hat against the sun

• Water and snacks, especially if you are going for a long route

• A camera with great views of the landscape.

• Comfortable attire and shoes

And last but not least, show respect to the culture and the environment that surrounds you. Listen to the instructions provided by the tour operator and try not to litter. The beauty of Trang An is in its virgin touch, and that will be on us.
If you are planning only a short 5 days Vietnam Itinerary starting from Hanoi, then Trang An boat trip is a must do besides Halong Bay - Lan Ha Bay or Sapa!

FAQs: Taking a Tour around Trang An by Boats

Any new place that you plan to tour brings up many questions. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions and their answers to help you prepare for your Trang An boat tour:

1. How long does the boat tour take?
The duration of the boat tour varies based on the chosen route, but generally, it takes around 2 to 3 hours.

2. Can tickets be purchased online?
Yes, you can buy tickets either online from sites like Viator but those would be way more costlier compared to booking directly from the ticket office at Trang An.

3. Is the boat tour child-friendly?
Yes, the boat tour is safe for children. However, children must be supervised by an adult at all times during the tour.

4. What happens if it rains?
In case of light rain, the tour usually proceeds as planned. However, if there is heavy rain or adverse weather conditions, the tour may be canceled for safety reasons.

5. Which tour should I choose: Trang An vs Tam Coc Boat Tour?
Both Trang An and Tam Coc offer stunning landscapes and boat tours through limestone karsts and caves. Trang An is often considered more serene and less crowded, with a wider variety of routes and historical sites. Tam Coc, on the other hand, is known for its scenic rice fields and proximity to Bich Dong Pagoda. 

To be honest, we preferred Trang An over Tam Coc as it's a bit less touristy! But some backpackers I met in Vietnam did prefer Tam Coc boat tour more due to its more scenic nature.

If you have time, experience both. If you are short on time, then you can cover both tours on the same day as Tam Coc and Trang An are close by - only around 25 minutes. 

In case you are looking for a lesser known tour in Ninh Binh, then the Van Long Boat tour is a great option. It's perfect for tourists who want a less touristy experience In Ninh Binh.

6. Do I need to book tickets in advance?
No. Except when you travel during peak tourist seasons and weekends, to ensure availability and avoid long waiting times. But do note that it will cost more as you will be booking from third party agencies like Tripadvisor/Viator.

7. Is the boat tour safe?
Yes, the boat tour is generally safe. All boats are equipped with life jackets, and the rowers are experienced and familiar with the waterways. However, it is essential to follow the safety instructions provided.

8. How much does it cost to go on the Trang An Boat Tour in Ninh Binh?
The official Trang An boat tour ticket price in 2025 is 250,000 VND per person, which is approximately $10. Each boat can accommodate up to four passengers plus the rower. If you prefer a private boat, you can purchase additional tickets to cover the entire boat capacity.

If you are coming by your own motorbike, parking is around 15000 VND which is less than $1.

9. What are the hours of operation for the Trang An Boat Tour?
The Trang An Boat Tour operates daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It’s recommended to start your tour early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy the cooler atmosphere.

10. Is one day enough to visit Ninh Binh?
One day is sufficient to explore the highlights of Ninh Binh, such as the Trang An Boat Tour, Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, and Mua Cave. However, if you want a more relaxed experience and to explore additional sites like Tam Coc, Bai Dinh Pagoda, and Cuc Phuong National Park, staying for two days or more is ideal.

11. How to save money in Ninh Binh?
One trick which many travelers (especially solo travelers) are not aware of is to find a travel companion. You can not even just share cost of group tour but also save money while travelling together. 
You can easily find travel companion in Vietnam with a lot of travel partner finder apps. Only thing you have to be careful about is the safety!

12. Where to stay in Trang An, Ninh Binh?
There are various accommodation options in Ninh Binh, ranging from luxury resorts to budget guesthouses. Some popular places to stay near Trang An include:

• Trang An Retreat: Offers peaceful bungalows with stunning views of the surrounding limestone mountains.

• Tam Coc Garden Resort: A beautiful eco-resort with traditional Vietnamese design.

• Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel & Resort: A luxury hotel with modern amenities close to popular attractions.

If you’re planning to visit Ninh Binh, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the stunning caves and jungles of Phong Nha with Jungle Boss Tours. Whether it’s trekking through untouched wilderness or discovering hidden cave systems including one of the largest caves in the world!

And in case you have more time left in Vietnam, then there is a combined tour package which includes some of the top places to visit in Vietnam like Hanoi, Mai Chau - Ninh Binh - Halong Bay.
This north Vietnam tour should take you around 8 days and cover most of the famous northern Vietnam tourist attractions.