Nam Dinh Ninh Binh, Vietnam Travel Guide
Ninh Binh and Nam Dinh, within the Red River Delta, feature a humid subtropical a climate having four distinct seasons. Each season has unique advantages and considerations for travelers.
Spring (February to April) brings mild temperatures, typically 20-25°C, with moderate humidity plus airy rainfall. This period has pleasant conditions for outdoor activities like boat tours, hiking, and cycling. The landscapes appear lush and green subsequent to the winter.
High Season (October - April) typically has the most favorable weather. Shoulder Season (May, September) balances crowds and pricing. Low Season (June - August) aligns with peak summer and the rainy season.
Ideal timing for activities: Boat tours, hiking, and cycling are best in Spring and Autumn. Bird watching in Van Long and Cuc Phuong National Park is good in winter for migratory birds, or early morning/late afternoon in Spring and Autumn.
Favorable weather
Pleasant temperatures, clear skies, ideal for outdoors and photography. Festivals occur early in the year.
Higher tourist numbers, crowded attractions, potentially higher prices for accommodations and tours. Significant increases around public holidays.
Balance of periods
Fewer crowds than high season, competitive prices. Good weather, especially in September. May displays golden rice fields.
May marks hot, rainy season start; increased humidity. September can still experience residual storms or heavy rainfall.
Peak summer, rainy season
Lowest prices for accommodation and tours. Fewer tourists at attractions. Frequent rain creates lush green landscapes, striking for photography.
Hot and very humid conditions challenge outdoor activities. Frequent heavy rainfall, increased risk of typhoons or tropical storms disrupting travel.
Entry into Vietnam includes various visa and passport regulations. Requirements vary by nationality, so checking official sources well before your trip is important. Options include Visa Exemption (for specific durations, 15-45 days), E-Visa (for 80 countries, 90 days, single entry, IVisa, VisaHQ), Visa On Arrival (VOA - requires pre-approval letter), and Traditional Visa from embassies.
Passport valid for at least six months beyond your departure, two passport-sized photos (4x6 cm), completed application form (for VOA or traditional visa), and the VOA approval letter. For e-visa, print a copy to carry with your passport.
Approximately USD 25, paid online during application.
Approx. USD 25 (single-entry) / USD 50 (multiple-entry), cash payment at airport.
Present passport, visa documents, and entry/exit form. Fingerprinting and facial recognition possible.
General tourism in Ninh Binh or Nam Dinh does not demand special permits. National park entry tickets are purchased at entrances.
Vietnam does not generally impose routine health-related entry requirements. Check with your country's foreign affairs department for updates.
Vietnam offers a wide range of travel costs, accommodating various budgets from backpackers to luxury seekers. The official currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND), symbolized as ₫. The exchange rate fluctuates; generally, 1 USD equals 24,000 - 25,000 VND.
You exchange currency at banks, authorized money changers, or larger hotels. ATMs are widely available in city centers like Ninh Binh City and Nam Dinh City, and in popular tourist areas. Notify your bank about your travel plans to avoid card freezes.
Estimates per person per day.
Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex (boat): VND 250,000 - 300,000 (USD 10-12) per person. Tam Coc-Bich Dong (boat): VND 120,000 - 150,000 (USD 5-6) per person + VND 30,000-50,000 (USD 1.25-2) entrance. Mua Cave: VND 100,000 (USD 4). Cuc Phuong National Park: VND 60,000 (USD 2.50).
A good journey is a happy journey.
Consult your doctor 4-6 weeks before your trip. Routine vaccinations (MMR, DTaP, Varicella, Polio), Hepatitis A, Typhoid are highly advised. A LIVER infection caused by the hepatitis b virus, Japanese Encephalitis, and Rabies are for longer/rural stays or outdoor activities.
Drink only bottled, boiled, or purified water. Avoid ice from tap water. Eat thoroughly cooked food. Peel fruits yourself.
Use Insect repellent with DEET or picaridin. Wear long sleeves/pants, especially during evenings or in rural areas. Sleep under mosquito nets if needed.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of Bottled water. Wear light, ventilated clothing. Seek shade during peak heat hours. Limit strenuous action in the middle of the day. Use High SPF sunscreen regularly, and wear hats and Sunglasses.
Provincial hospitals are available in "ha Long bay on land" City and Nam Dinh City. For serious conditions, transfer to international hospitals in Hanoi is recommended. Smaller clinics and pharmacies are common for basic medical attention.
Tap water is not safe for drinking. Only consume bottled water, boiled water, or water purified through reliable filters. Use bottled water for brushing your teeth.
Emergency Services: Ambulance: 115, Police: 113, Fire: 114.
Ninh Binh and Nam Dinh are generally safe. Pickpocketing/bag snatching can occur in crowded areas. Use a Money belt. Scams include overcharging by drivers; use ride-sharing apps like Grab with fixed prices.
Typhoons/tropical storms (July-October) can cause flooding. Monitor local weather reports and follow authority advice. Be aware of flash floods during monsoon rains.
Highly Recommended. A comprehensive policy includes coverage for medical emergencies, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation, and lost luggage. SafetyWing is a great alternative.
For serious medical needs, transfer to international infirmaries in Hanoi is a better option. Eat at popular, busy street food stalls where food turnover is high for fresh ingredients.
