Northern Vietnam Adventure
August 15-22, 2027
Hanoi, Ninh Binh and Pu Luong
+ Halong Bay Extension - August 22-24
Embark on a luxurious women’s only adventure through Northern Vietnam where adventure meets serenity. This 8 day adventure includes time to explore Hanoi like a local taking in the culture, history, and of course food! After time in the city, a tranquil haven of Pu Long awaits with lush landscapes and you’ll end in Mai Chau to enjoy a bike ride through traditional villages offering further immersion into this region’s natural beauty, culture and richness.
But wait…..there’s more, an extra adventure awaits!!!
Extend your stay with a 3 day trip to Halong Bay on a luxury cruise where you’ll glide across the emerald green waters surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. Enjoy coffee on your private balcony with breathtaking views, relax on board with a massage, and join in activities such as kayaking, hiking, and cooking demonstrations.
If you’re looking for an adventure that has it all, then this is it - it’s the perfect blend of activity, history, culture, delicious food, and relaxation!
ITINERARY
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Arrive at Noi Bai Airport (HAN) in Hanoi, Vietnam. Your driver will be waiting to accompany you to your hotel and ensure you get settled in. Two group airport transfers will be provided.
Hotel check-in is after 2pm. The rest of the afternoon is at your leisure.
Tonight we’ll meet for a group dinner at Madam Hien where we’ll enjoy a classic Vietnamese dinner to kick off our adventure.
Meals included: Dinner
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We’ll enjoy breakfast at the hotel before meeting with our guide for a “locals” tour to get to know the area.
We will head to Hoan Kiem Lake where locals start the day practicing tai chi and aerobics. Next we’ll visit Ngoc Son Temple and enjoy a traditional ca phe sua da or egg coffee.
After a walk through Hanoi’s Old Quarter to explore French colonial architecture, Hoa Lo Prison, B-52 Lake, and the Temple of Literature.
For lunch we’ll enjoy Hanoi’s bun cha noodle dish.
Next we’ll make our way to a well known street where trains pass close to homes and cafes. We walk along the tracks, take photos and end our day with a refreshing beer at a local bia hoi spot.
After our tour, the rest of the night is yours to relax and enjoy dinner at your leisure.
Meals included: Breakfast and lunch
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After breakfast at the hotel, it’s time to check out. Today we make our way out of the city and head to Pu Luong, about a 4 hour drive.
Once we arrive, we will check into our hotel and have a little time to freshen up before heading to a Bamboo Sticky Rice Cooking Class! The class includes a gentle trek through local villages, such as Bam and Leo, where we’ll gather the fresh ingredients like bamboo leaves and banana to prepare authentic Pu Luong dishes. For lunch we’ll enjoy the delicious results of our efforts.
After the class, we’ll head back to the resort where the rest of day is at your leisure to enjoy the views overlooking the valley and the outdoor infinity pool.
Dinner is at your leisure this evening.
Meals included: Breakfast and lunch
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Wake up and enjoy breakfast with a view before we head out on today’s big adventure.
Today we will hike through the valley exploring local villages. We begin with a steep descent down to the valley on a paved road with beautiful views of rice fields in the distance.
Once we arrive in Lan Village, we’ll take a break to meet a local family and learn the story of this village famous for its traditional home weaving.
After our break, we’ll continue on a small road where we’ll enjoy wide open views of the surrounding mountains and expansive fields, passing by locals and traditional stilt houses.
The paved roads turns into an off-road trails that take us through rice field valleys. After a final climb, we’ll arrive at the entrance of Hieu Waterfall.
After time to enjoy the waterfall, we’ll head to a nearby restaurant to enjoy lunch before returning to our hotel.
The rest of the day is yours to relax at the resort and enjoy dinner at your leisure.
Hike Details: Moderate to Intermediate
Total Distance: 7.5 miles/11.50 kms
Elevation gain/loss: 700 ft/207m and 1,015 ft/309m
Time Walking: 4.5 to 5.5 hoursMeals included: Breakfast and lunch
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Wake up, enjoy breakfast and check out. Our day begins with on a short 20 minute drive to the starting point for our hike.
The trek begins in a village area, walking along a mix of gravel and cement roads that leads to a waterwheel site.
There will be time to explore the area and take plenty of photos while we hear stories about the village and waterwheels.
After we will continue along the path which leads deeper into rural surroundings.
When we’re finished, a vehicle will be waiting to pick us up. We will have lunch before we make our way to our next destination, Mai Chau, about a 2 hour drive.
Once we arrive, we’ll get settled in. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy the resort which offers an onsite spa, infinity pool, fitness center and lush gardens.
Hike Details: Easy
Total Distance: 3.2 miles/5 km
Elevation gain/loss: 200 ft/61m and 148ft/45m
Time Walking: 2 hoursMeals included: Breakfast and lunch
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After breakfast, we’ll depart from our lodge on bikes to explore the the rural charm of Vietnam.
This is the perfect way to explore this area. We’ll ride along the peaceful village roads, winding through lush rice fields, stilt houses and mountain views.
We’ll stop for lunch around mid day and enjoy time relaxing in the serene countryside.
In the afternoon we will continue our journey through more local villages where we will observe traditional ways of life that have remained unchanged for generations.
The tour ends back at our hotel where we’ll have time to relax and enjoy the amenities.
Dinner will be enjoyed at your leisure and is included at the resort tonight.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Bike tour stats - ~25-30 miles / 40-45 km
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Today offers a leisurely start and opportunities to enjoy the resort. Breakfast and lunch will be at the on-site restaurant before we check out.
Today we make our way back to Hanoi which is about a 3.5 hour drive.
After we get settled in and have a little time to freshen up, it’s time to explore Hanoi after dark by Vespa.
Tonight’s exciting adventure starts at a nice cafe in the town center with views of St Joseph’s Cathedral. Here we’ll try snacks from local street food vendors before hopping on the back of our Vespas.
We’ll weave through the narrow streets of the Old Quarter arriving at a local joint located near the railroad tracks. The next stop is a gastronomical heaven as we taste the quintessential dish of Hanoi. We’ll enjoy other local specialties along the way and finish the night with local live music as we enjoy the vibe that is Hanoi after dark!
Meals included: Breakfast and dinner (Vespa tour)
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Enjoy one last breakfast at our hotel before we pack up and check out.
If you are joining us in Halong Bay, you’ll head out on a transfer this morning. Otherwise the day is yours to explore until your transfer back to the Noi Bai Airport (HAN). Two group transfers will be provided to the airport.
Meals included: Breakfast
CRUSIE HA LONG BAY
3 day / 2 night trip extension
August 22-24, 2027
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After checking out of the hotel in Hanoi, we’ll take a transfer to Ha Long Bay marina to board our cruise.
We will arrive to the Tuan Chau International Marina around 11-11:30 a.m. where we will enjoy a refreshments before boarding for the cruise.
After getting on board, we’ll enjoy a welcome drink receive a cruise briefing and safety instructions before settling in to our suites.
As the cruise begins, relax on your balcony and marvel at the scenery made from the limestone mountains of Lan Ha Bay – Cat Ba Archipelago. This bay is untouched and remote, as not many cruise boats use this route.
Lunch will be served on board around 1 p.m.
We’ll approach an area with beaches, caves, and coves. Guests will have a couple hours to try kayaking or simply swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the bay. You are also welcome to relax and enjoy the facilitates on the boat.
Once we are back on the boat, activities include a Vietnamese cooking demonstration by the chef or enjoy a happy hour where you can relax and take in the sunset. Optional spa services available on board as well.
Enjoy a memorable dining experience and delicious meal prepared by your chef.
Tonight you can evening views of the bay at the bar on the top deck, try your hand squid fishing on 1st deck or watch a movie on 3rd deck.
Turn down service is included with your stay.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
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Wake up early to start the day with a session of Vovinam on the sundeck, followed by coffee, tea, and pastries.
Transfer to speedboat or dayboat to visit Viet Hai Village. We will take a bicycle ride or electric car through a rainforest tunnel that leads to local field. While there, we’ll visit a traditional house in a village deep in a national park.
We will enjoy lunch before our visit to Lan Ha Bay.
Our next stop includes time to enjoy the crystal-clear waters. We will visit Ba Trai Dao beaches (if the weather and tide permit) or enjoy find a stop to anchor where we will have time for swimming and kayaking.
We’ll return back to the boat in the afternoon.
The rest of the day is yours to enjoy as you wish. Join for afternoon tea or take the opportunity with the chef who will be leading another Vietnamese cooking class. You can also enjoy the pool bar, relax on your balcony, or enjoy happy hour as the sun sets over the Gulf of Tonkin.
We will enjoy another fine-dining experience in the main restaurant before the day concludes.
If you want a little more adventure, enjoy a movie, try your hand at squid fishing or relax with an night cap.
Turn down service is included with your stay.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
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Wake up early and start the day with a session of Vovinam on the sundeck followed by coffee, tea and pastries.
Have a light breakfast on board before you head out on one last adventure.
Head out in a bamboo boat to explore the Dark and Bright Cave area to enjoy the sparkling stalactites on the ceiling.
Return to boat for checkout and enjoy brunch while cruising back to the mainland.
Our driver will meet us at the marina after we disembark for a transfer back to Noi Bai Airport for flight home or to next destination. Please plan your international flight to depart after 7.00 pm.
Meals included: Breakfast
Questions? Please reach out to US at INFO@womenwhoexplore.com
Ready to Book?
Ready to Book?
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$3,495 double occupancy in 4-star to 5-star luxury resorts with infinity pools, jacuzzis, and on-site spa services available for self-booking.
$4,495 Single supplement offered at booking for $4,495 per person.
Ha Long and Lan Ha Bay Extension - $1,095 per person double occupancy or $1,395 for single occupancy.
If you are traveling solo, you will be assigned roommates upon request or you can request a single supplement upgrade (limited availability).
A deposit is due at booking to secure your spot and a payment plan is offered. Additional payments may be applied to the trip balance prior to payment dates.
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8 days/ 7 nights in 4 to 5 star boutique hotels and resorts.
Private airport transfers to/from Noi Bai Airport(HAN). Two group transfers will be provided for arrivals and departures.
Private driver and transportation between domestic destinations, to tours, etc.
Private local, english speaking guide with you for the duration of the trip.
Explore Hanoi Like a Local Tour with visits to the places noted below.
Hoan Kiem Lake
Ngoc Son Temple
Old Quarter Tour
Hoa Lo Prison
B-52 Lake
Temple of Literature
Phùng Hưng/Train Street
Bamboo Sticky Rice Cooking Class
Hiking Tour through Lan Village
Visit Hieu Waterfall
Walking tour through Cham Village and Waterwheel
Biking tours through rural villages of Mai Chau
Hanoi After Dark by Vespa tour with local street food and live music
Meals - 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 3 dinners (Vespa food tour)
Women Who Explore trip leader with you and available for support 24/7 during your trip
Trip checklists, detailed packing list, and pre-travel support provided in a private WhatsApp/Facebook group
Pre-trip Q&A Zoom call to meet your fellow travelers, trip host and ask any questions
WWE Swag to take home with you!
Small group, maximum 12 guests + your WWE trip host
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• 3 day/ 2 night Ha Long and Lan Ha Bay in Cat Ba Archipelago in a luxury suite with a private balcony. This boat has a total of 20 cabins.
• All cabins have bathtubs, shower spa private balcony with ocean views. Fresh seasonal fruit, snacks and nuts, water bottle, tea and coffee in rooms
• The boat includes an outdoor and indoor lounge, swimming pool, gym, games, library, and two restaurants. There is also an on-site spa that is self book and self pay.
• Explore Viet Hai Village located Depp in the national park. Choose between a bicycle ride or electric car
• Visit Tra Bau Lan Ha Bay and enjoy a swim in emerald green waters
• Beach activities such as swimming, kayaking, caving and squid fishing
• Chef led Vietnamese cooking class
• Daily afternoon tea, sunset happy hour and movie night
• English-speaking experience manager and cruise director
• Meal included: 3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners.
• Transfer from Hanoi to the marina and from the marina to Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi
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• International flights to/from Hanoi International Airport (HAN)
• Ha Lang Bay Extension (optional add-on experience)
• Airport transfers outside of designated arrival and departure dates
• Alcohol, additional beverages, snacks, and meals not included above
• Tips and gratuity for local guides, drivers and staff (at the discretion of the guest)
• Any additional excursions or activities not included in the above itinerary
• Visa if applicable U.S. citizens and Canadian citizens are required to apply for an E-Visa ahead of time. Cost starts at ~$25 USD per person and varies on visa length requested. Learn more here.
• Any travel related medical expenses such as immunizations, vaccinations, or required Covid-19 testing
• Traveler insurance to cover medical expenses while traveling abroad (proof of insurance required)
• Personal expenses not included in the itinerary such as additional accommodations, transportation, souvenirs, etc.
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All meals will be provided as noted in the itinerary. Please reach out to the trip host after booking if you have any food allergies/sensitivities. We always do our best to accommodate dietary restrictions but cannot make any guarantees.
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This trip requires a minimum number of ladies to register in order for it to be confirmed. Once the trip reaches the minimum participant number, you will receive a trip confirmation email and a link to be added a private WhatsApp group just for trip guests. In this group further trip details will be provided along with pre-travel support.
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Please see our Terms of Service for our full Cancellation Policy.
All deposits are non-refundable at the time of booking, but may be transferable if done so within the timeframe outlined in the Terms of Service. Please make sure you are purchasing adequate travel insurance at the time of booking to ensure you are covered in case you need to cancel.Please note: some of our trips have a non-refundable fee that will be stated in the trip description. Please make sure to refer to the full Terms of Service to make sure you understand fully the Cancellation Policy of each trip.
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Women Who Explore guests will be required to follow the local Covid-19 guidelines and requirements as set forth by the local governing body of the destination being visited.
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Travel (and medical) insurance is required for anyone traveling on a Women Who Explore adventure. Your insurance should include adequate protection for overseas medical treatment, evacuation/repatriation, your baggage and equipment and the specific activities involved on your adventure. Your insurance policy should also include specific Covid-19 cover, including cancellation and curtailment cover if you or a close relative are diagnosed with Covid-19.
For recommended travel insurance providers click here.
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Please note that the itinerary provided for your adventure is subject to change. While we strive to adhere to the proposed plan, unforeseen circumstances such as weather conditions, safety concerns, or other factors beyond our control may necessitate adjustments to the itinerary. We prioritize your safety and enjoyment throughout the adventure, and any modifications made will be done with careful consideration. We will make every effort to inform you in advance of any changes and provide suitable alternatives to ensure a fulfilling experience.