If you’re looking for a convenient and budget-friendly way to travel, taking the Mai Chau Ninh Binh bus is a common choice. This article will help you understand the different bus options, limousine services, and alternative transportation, along with useful tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.
Distance and travel time from Mai Chau to Ninh Binh
The route from Mai Chau to Ninh Binh is becoming increasingly popular among travelers exploring Northern Vietnam. Both destinations are well-known for their stunning mountain landscapes, rich local culture, and natural heritage sites. If you're considering traveling between these two places by bus, it’s important to understand the actual distance and travel time involved.
.png "Travel from Mai Chau to Ninh Binh by bus")
Travel from Mai Chau to Ninh Binh by bus
From the center of Mai Chau to the center of Ninh Binh City or tourist areas like Tam Coc and Trang An, the distance is approximately 140 to 150 kilometers. On average, travel time by tourist bus or minivan takes around 3 to 4 hours. The journey goes through low mountain ranges and hilly terrain, offering beautiful scenery, smooth paved roads, and minimal traffic congestion.
There are two main route options:
- Popular fast route: Mai Chau - National Highway 15 - National Highway 12B - Tam Diep - Ninh Binh.
- Scenic route via Ban Mon – Nho Quan (recommended for private cars): offers more picturesque views but involves narrower, winding roads.
Read more: Mai Chau food map: Top 13 must-try local dishes
Popular Mai Chau Ninh Binh bus
When looking for bus options from Mai Chau to Ninh Binh, you will find that there is no direct public bus route connecting these two points. Therefore, travelers usually opt for tourist-oriented vehicles such as tourist buses or limousine minivans. Both offer convenience, safety, and comfort for your journey.
Tourist bus
Tourist buses are the most popular choice for both domestic and international travelers moving between Mai Chau and Ninh Binh. These are typically shared minibuses with 12 to 16 seats, equipped with air conditioning, reclining seats, and no random pick-ups along the way. This option suits those who want to save on costs while ensuring a convenient and safe trip.
.png "Tourist buses are the most popular choice for both domestic and international travelers moving between Mai Chau and Ninh Binh (source: 12Go)")
Tourist buses are the most popular choice for both domestic and international travelers moving between Mai Chau and Ninh Binh (source: 12Go)
A key advantage of tourist buses is their door-to-door pick-up and drop-off service. The bus will pick you up directly from your hotel or homestay in Mai Chau like Mai Chau Hideaway Lake Resort and drop you off at central locations in Ninh Binh or popular tourist sites. This saves you the hassle of traveling to bus stations or changing vehicles.
Most tourist buses operate mainly in the morning, with 1 to 2 departures per day, usually between 7:30 AM and 8:30 AM. Travel time typically ranges from 3.5 to 4 hours depending on traffic and weather conditions. Ticket prices are reasonable, usually between 250,000 and 350,000 VND per person, including pick-up and drop-off services.
Some reputable tourist bus operators you can consider:
- The Long Travel: specializes in Tam Coc – Mai Chau routes, high-quality vehicles, friendly drivers.
- Pu Luong Express: operates Mai Chau – Pu Luong – Ninh Binh route, convenient for combined tours.
- Thai’s Travel: mainly serves foreign tourists, professional service, easy booking via website or hotels.
Limousine Minivan
If you prioritize comfort and higher-end amenities, limousine minivans are a great choice. These vehicles usually have 9 to 16 seats. They feature premium interiors and leather reclining seats. Some models even offer massage functions.
Limousine minivans provide extra conveniences such as free Wi-Fi, USB charging ports, bottled water, and towels. The cabins are spacious and airy. This allows passengers to enjoy privacy and relaxation throughout the trip. They are ideal for small groups or travelers who want to rest fully.
.png "Limousine minivan from Mai Chau to Ninh Binh (source: 12Go)")
Limousine minivan from Mai Chau to Ninh Binh (source: 12Go)
Travel time by limousine minivan is usually faster, around 3 hours via National Highway 12B. These vehicles also offer door-to-door pick-up and drop-off, similar to tourist buses. Ticket prices range from 300,000 to 400,000 VND per person, depending on the operator and vehicle type.
Note that many limousine operators do not list their services on online booking platforms. It is recommended to book through your hotel or homestay in Mai Chau for easier and more reliable reservations.
Some reputable limousine minivan companies to consider:
- The Long Travel: new vehicles, professional service, door-to-door pick-up and drop-off.
- Ninh Binh Limousine: well-known for the Ninh Binh – Mai Chau route, modern and fully equipped cars.
- Pu Luong Express.
If you’re looking for a more comfortable and flexible journey, hiring a private car with a driver is a great option.This is perfect for families or groups who value privacy and convenience. Renting a car with a driver lets you relax without worrying about the road.
Prices usually range from 1,800,000 to 2,500,000 VND, depending on the car and provider. Plus, you can stop and explore anywhere along the way or adjust your schedule as you like, making your trip more fun and flexible.
Tips for taking the Mai Chau Ninh Binh bus
Traveling by the Mai Chau Ninh Binh bus can be an enjoyable and budget-friendly experience. However, to make sure your trip goes smoothly and comfortably, here are some useful tips to keep in mind:
.png "The bus Mai Chau Ninh Binh ride was a bit long, but the stunning landscapes waiting in Ninh Binh made it all worth it (source: Vietnam plus)")
The bus Mai Chau Ninh Binh ride was a bit long, but the stunning landscapes waiting in Ninh Binh made it all worth it (source: Vietnam plus)
- Book your tickets in advance: Use reliable channels or ask your hotel or homestay to help book, especially during holidays and weekends, to avoid sold-out seats or long waits.
- Choose morning departures: Leaving early gives you more time to explore Ninh Binh and helps avoid traffic jams.
- Bring snacks and water: The journey takes 3 to 4 hours, so having some light food and drinks will keep your energy up.
- Carry a small towel or mask: This helps protect against dust and cold wind, especially on limousine buses with large windows.
- Save contact information: Keep the phone numbers of the bus company, driver, and your destination handy in case you need assistance.
- Pick a comfortable seat: Because the bus Mai Chau Ninh Binh journey is fairly long and winding, it's a good idea to choose a seat near the front or by the window. This will make the ride more comfortable, allow you to enjoy the scenic views, and help reduce motion sickness.
- Move around during breaks: Stand up and stretch when the bus stops to reduce fatigue and prevent motion sickness.
Read more: Directions to Mai Chau Hideaway Lake Resort: Fastest & easiest way from Hanoi
Choosing the right transport from Mai Chau to Ninh Binh not only saves you time and money but also adds to the joy of exploring Northern Vietnam. Whether you take the Mai Chau Ninh Binh bus, a limousine, or a private car, preparing well and following the tips in this guide will help ensure a comfortable and memorable trip. Wishing you a great journey full of wonderful experiences with the Mai Chau Ninh Binh bus!