How to Get to Pu Luong from Ninh Binh | A Calm, Practical Travel Guide
Reaching Pu Luong Nature Reserve from Ninh Binh is not difficult — but it does require the right choice of transport.
The journey covers roughly 155–170 km, crossing quiet countryside, small towns, and mountain roads.
How comfortable and relaxed you feel upon arrival depends almost entirely on how you travel.
This guide explains the best ways to get from Ninh Binh to Pu Luong, based on real conditions, travel style, and season — not generic advice.
Quick answer:
The easiest way to get from Ninh Binh to Pu Luong is by private car or daily shared minivan service.
The shared minivan picks up guests directly at their hotel in Ninh Binh at 7:30 AM and arrives in Pu Luong around 10:30 AM.
Private cars offer more flexibility and comfort, while motorbikes are suitable only for experienced riders.
If you’re planning around rice seasons and the most comfortable walking weather, read our guide on the best time to visit Pu Luong before you book transport.
| Transport option | Travel time | Estimated cost | Comfort level | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Private car | 3–3.5 hours | $89–$120 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Families, couples, premium travelers |
| Shared minivan / bus | ~3 hours | $20–$25 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Solo travelers, couples |
| Local bus + taxi | 5–6 hours | $20–$30 | ⭐⭐⭐ | Backpackers |
| Motorbike | 5–6 hours | $15–$25 | ⭐⭐ | Experienced riders |
1. Private Car from Ninh Binh to Pu Luong (Best & Most Comfortable)
Traveling by private car is the easiest and most reliable option, especially if you value comfort and flexibility.
Travel time: 3–3.5 hours
Door-to-door service
Air-conditioned vehicle
Flexible departure time
This option is ideal for:
Couples and families
Travelers with luggage
Guests arriving from Tam Coc, Trang An, or Ninh Binh hotels
Local drivers know the mountain roads well, which is particularly important during the rainy season.
Private transfer offers the most comfortable way to reach Pu Luong
2. Shared Mini Van / Bus from Ninh Binh to Pu Luong (Daily Service)
For travelers looking for a comfortable and affordable shared transfer, Pu Luong Transfer Service operates a daily mini van / bus from Ninh Binh to Pu Luong.
Service details:
Daily departure
Pick-up directly at your hotel in Ninh Binh
Departure time: 7:30 AM
Arrival in Pu Luong: around 10:30 AM
Air-conditioned mini van
This option is ideal for:
Solo travelers
Couples
Travelers who prefer hotel pick-up and a smooth journey
The same service also operates daily return trips from Pu Luong to Ninh Binh.
Return schedule:
Departure from Pu Luong: 1:00 PM
Drop-off in Ninh Binh in the late afternoon
Daily shared minivan with hotel pick-up
3. Motorbike from Ninh Binh to Pu Luong (For Experienced Riders Only)
Riding a motorbike offers beautiful scenery but comes with challenges.
Mountain roads with steep curves
Limited signage in remote areas
Slippery roads during rainy season
If you’re trekking after arrival, here’s a practical safety guide on is Pu Luong trekking safe — including trails, weather, and what to pack
Recommended only if:
You are an experienced rider
You are comfortable navigating rural Vietnam
Weather conditions are good
For most travelers, motorbike travel is not recommended for safety reasons.
Mountain roads to Pu Luong are challenging for motorbikes
4. Local Bus from Ninh Binh to Pu Luong (Cheapest Option)
In addition to the shared mini van service, travelers can still use local buses by combining multiple routes. This option is cheaper but less convenient.
Multiple transfers required
Longer travel time
Limited comfort
Best suited for backpackers with flexible schedules.
Local buses connect Ninh Binh with rural Thanh Hoa, requiring multiple transfers to reach Pu Luong
Which Option Should You Choose?
Choose a private car if you want comfort, safety, and a smooth journey
Choose bus + taxi if you are on a tight budget and flexible with time
Choose a motorbike only if you are confident riding long mountain routes
Local Travel Tips (Very Important)
Avoid traveling at night due to limited lighting and mountain roads
During rainy season (June–September), private cars are the safest choice
Mobile signal may be weak in some areas of Pu Luong.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
❓ Is there a direct bus from Ninh Binh to Pu Luong?
Yes. A daily shared minivan / bus service operates directly from Ninh Binh to Pu Luong with hotel pick-up.
The minivan departs at 7:30 AM and arrives in Pu Luong around 10:30 AM.
For the return trip, the minivan leaves Pu Luong at 1:00 PM.
❓ How long does it take to get from Ninh Binh to Pu Luong?
Travel time ranges from 3 to 4 hours, depending on the transport option chosen.
❓ Is the road from Ninh Binh to Pu Luong difficult?
Some sections are mountainous and winding. It is manageable by car but challenging for inexperienced motorbike riders.
❓ Is private transfer worth it?
Yes. For comfort, safety, and time efficiency, private transfer is the best option for most travelers.
Many travelers pair a private transfer with a quiet, local-guided itinerary — explore our private Pu Luong tours for a slow, crowd-free experience
Need Help Arranging Transport?
If you’d like assistance booking a private car or shared minivan, feel free to reach out:
WhatsApp: +84 357 004 668
Facebook: Pu Luong Eco Tours