Ninh Binh
2 days, 1 night
AH-NB03
6/10
$125 USD
DESCRIBE

This tour is the perfect choice for travelers who want more than just a typical nature trip, combining jungle trekking, wildlife conservation, local culture, and river adventure in one unique experience. Guests will have the chance to visit the Endangered Primate Rescue Center, trek through the wild forest of Cuc Phuong National Park on rugged trails far from the usual tourist routes, spend the night in Khanh Village with the local Muong community, and continue the journey with a peaceful SUP experience on the Buoi River, one of the most scenic river sections along the edge of Cuc Phuong. With its balance of adventure, authentic cultural connection, and beautiful natural landscapes, this tour offers a memorable and refreshing escape for those who love outdoor experiences and discovering Vietnam in a deeper way.

Highlights

  • Trekking through the jungle
  • Paddling SUP on the most beautiful section of the Buoi River
  • Learning about the rich flora and fauna of Cuc Phuong National Park
  • Having professional and experienced tour guide
SUMMARY
  • Departure Point: Hanoi

  • Duration: 2 days, 1 night

  • Destination: Ninh Binh

  • Activities: Trekking

  • Min : 5 people

  • Best time: Apr - Oct

  • Max : 15 people

  • Difficulty level: 6/10

IMAGES / VIDEOS
ITINERARY
Day 1: Ha Noi - Cuc Phuong forest (NP) - Trekking - Camping at Khanh Village

08:00 Heading to Ninh Binh. Preparing your own breakfast to eat on the bus or at rest stops along the way. Upon arriving at Cuc Phuong, communicating with forest rangers and local guides, receiving instructions about the journey, and preparing gears for the adventure. Before entering the forest, we will visit the Primate Rescue Center to learn about research and rescue efforts by Cuc Phuong National Park.

Continue going by bus to Bong where we will prepare to get in the forest. Our trekking route through the jungle will take approximately 4 hours, mostly on rugged trails with few human footprints. Having a picnic lunch in the forest at a suitable stopping point.

Arriving at Khanh village - a village of the Muong ethnic people located on the outskirts of Cuc Phuong National Park. Having dinner and staying overnight at a homestay here.

* Meals included: Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 2: Playing Stand-Up Paddle (SUP) on Buoi River – Ha Noi

08:00 Waking up and having breakfast at the homestay. After having breakfast with a cup of coffee or hot tea, we will go to the starting point for SUP by bus, this location is about 4km from the homestay. Paddling downstream and exploring one of the most beautiful sections of the Buoi River in Thanh Hoa province. The 5km stretch features stunning landscapes and winding sections along the cliffs of Cuc Phuong. You can swim in the river before boarding the bus to a local restaurant for lunch. After lunch, we will return to Hanoi by bus.

* Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

INCLUSION/EXCLUSION

Inclusion:

  • Round-trip bus: Ha Noi – Cuc Phuong forest (National Park) – Ha Noi
  • SUP and equipments
  • Trekking gear (trekking poles, gloves, leech repellent, first aid kit)
  • Meals as the schedule on the itinerary (1 breakfast, 2 lunches, 1 dinner)
  • Homestay fees in Khanh village
  • Tour guides and forest rangers
  • Daily drinking water
  • Fee for entrance tickets
  • Travel insurance 

Exclusion:

  • Other kinds of beverage unlist in the tour program
  • Personal expenses
  • Transportation fee before and after the trip
  • Beverages during meals

     

 

 

THE EQUIPMENT NECESSARY

Equipment provided by VAH:

  • Trekking poles
  • Gloves
  • Insect repellent
  • Backpack (10L)
  • First aid kid
  • Reusable bottle
  • Flashlight or headlamp
  • Dry bag

      What to bring: 

  • Hikking shoes / walking sandals
  • Backpack (10L–30L)
  • Trekking clothing: Summer: quick-dry clothing, wide-brim hat
  • Winter: waterproof windbreaker, fleece or sweatshirt, thermal base layers, trekking pants or quick-dry pants, thermal pants
  • SUP clothing: long-sleeved swimwear (rash guard) or T-shirt and shorts
  • Sun protection: hat/cap, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen
  • Personal medications
  • Electronics (Mobile phone, camera, power bank...), appropriate waterproof cases
  • ID or passport

  Also recommended:

  • Hand sanitizer
  • Clothingfor a 2-day tour
  • Multi-tool
IMPORTANT NOTES

1. Trekking Notes

  • Distance: The trekking route is approximately 16 to 17 km per day.
  • Terrain: we will trek approximately 16–17 km. The terrain consists of sections of relatively flat forest interspersed with limestone mountain forest, and is divided by dry stream beds covered with slippery, mossy, and damp surfaces, as well as sharp, jagged karst rock slopes.
  • Suitability: This route is ideal for most fitness levels, including beginners. Families are welcome, not suitable for children.

2. Sup Paddling

  • Buoi River is a relatively small river with a gentle current during the dry season. Even in the rainy season, it does not present a challenging paddling route, with only one or two minor rapids

3. Responsible Travel & Environmental Protection

  • Leave No Trace: We strictly follow and promote the Leave No Trace principles in all our outdoor programs. We encourage our guests and partners to apply these ethics to minimize our impact on the natural environment. [See details about Leave No Trace here]
  • Reduce Plastic Waste: To limit single-use plastics, we encourage everyone to bring a reusable water bottle (minimum 1L capacity). Refill stations will be provided throughout the trip.
  • Local Regulations: We kindly ask all guests to comply with the specific environmental regulations and instructions provided by our guides at the destination.

4Health & Safety

  • Medical Considerations: Your safety is our priority. If you have a history of cardiovascular conditions or chronic joint issues (knees, ankles, shoulders, etc.), please consult with your doctor before booking this trip.
  • Physical Fitness: Please maintain a regular walking routine of approximately 5–7 km per day in the weeks leading up to the tour to ensure you are adequately prepared for the trek.
  • Transparency: Please inform our tour guide of any existing health conditions or allergies at the start of the journey so we can support you best.