Northern Vietnam Adventure
October 15-22, 2025
Hanoi, Ninh Binh, and Pu Luong
+ Halong Bay Extension 10/22-24
Embark on a luxurious women’s only adventure through Northern Vietnam where adventure meets serenity. The 8 day journey begins with time to explore the alleys of Hanoi taking in the culture, history, and of course food! After cooking with a Top 5 Mast Chef in the city, the tranquil haven of Pu Long awaits with lush landscapes and traditional villages offering further immersion into this region’s natural beauty, culture and richness. A visit to Ninh Binh with time to explore ancient temples, visit endangered langurs, and soak in the mesmerizing views is a great end to an amazing adventure!
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!
Day 1:
Welcome to Vietnam!
Arrive at Hanoi Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) anytime today. Upon arrival you will be met by our local guide and transferred by private car to the absolutely beautiful 5-star Peridot Grand Luxury Boutique Hotel.
Most flights from North America arrive late in the evening, around 9-10 pm local time and it is about a 30-40 minute drive to the hotel depending on traffic. Since flights typically arrive late in the day, there are no group activities planned for the evening.
For those who arrive early, check out the hotel rooftop bar and infinity pool to enjoy a drink and the sunset. If you are feeling the need for a little extra relaxation after your flight, unwind in the complimentary jacuzzi or book a massage at the hotel’s spa.
Day 2:
a morning with a master chef &HANOI HIGHLIGHTS
Chào buổi sáng! Welcome to your first full day in Vietnam!
Enjoy a delicious breakfast before we head out to explore Hanoi today. We’ll meet in the lobby at 8:15 a.m. for an incredible morning learning about Yin Yang cooking, exploring local markets and diving into a hands-on lesson with Vu Thi Ngoc Ai, a Top 5 Master Chef of Vietnam.
This incredible experience offers a local chef’s insight into the culinary concept of Yin-Yang equilibrium in the makeup of dishes, in the human body, and the environment. We begin by visiting a local market to delight in the sights, sounds, and aromas. Afterwards, we will make our way through a narrow zig-zag alley to our chef’s tiny, cozy home nearby. We will have time to chat with her over a cup of tea as she shares about her journey from a helper to a reckoned chef, her experience during the Master chef competition, and about the lifestyle of a young family in Hanoi. Then it’s time to roll up our sleeves for a private cooking class as our chef shares tips and demonstrates the Yin and Yang balance in Northern cuisine. We will enjoy seasonal dishes and indulge in a typical Hanoi dessert of egg coffee. Eating and drinking is an art form, where culinary delights showcase regional diversity and elegant presentation.
It’s time to hit the city! We will be spending the next four hours exploring some of Hanoi’s highlights. Soak in the city’s French colonial architecture, visit Hoan Kiem Lake, known as the ‘Lake of the Restored Sword’ and learn about the legend that surrounds it. Next up we will stop by the women’s history museum before continuing on to the stunning Temple of Literature, a serene retreat from the busy streets and the home of Vietnam’s first university.
The best way to experience Hanoi’s Old Quarter is with a cycle ride! We will head through an area of the city known as ’36 Streets’. The oldest continuously developed area of Vietnam, this densely populated section of Hanoi was once an important center of commerce where goods were sold on streets named for each particular guild. The labyrinthine alleyways are perfect for exploring by foot with names such as Sugar Street, Tin Street and Paper Street.
Our tour will conclude around 6 p.m. and the rest of the evening is yours to spend as you wish. Enjoy dinner on the town, check out the Hanoi Night Market, catch the famous water puppet show, or get a massage and use the essential oil you created earlier in the day.
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 3:
Hanoi to pu luong nature reserve
Get ready for an epic day! Enjoy breakfast, then pack your bags to meet in the lobby at 8 am to embark on a scenic journey outside of Hanoi. After a four-hour drive through a stunning mountain pass, you'll arrive at the serene Pu Luong Nature Reserve.
Settle into your charming accommodation and savor an authentic, delicious lunch. Take some time to unwind while enjoying breathtaking panoramic views and the peaceful surroundings.
In the afternoon immerse yourself in the rich local culture with a visit to nearby villages. Wander through working farmland and lush rice fields, gaining insights into the daily lives of the hilltop communities. Engage with friendly locals and experience their traditional way of life.
Explore the picturesque Nua and Cham rivers with a local guide, just 7 kilometers from your retreat. These rivers not only nurture the rice fields but also serve as vital resources for the local communities. Watch as locals use traditional woven fish baskets and bamboo rafts for fishing, offering a glimpse into age-old practices.
Enjoy a delightful dinner, reflecting on a day full of discovery and cultural immersion.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 4:
treat yourself - a day to relax in luxury
Today is all about YOU!! Wake up at your own pace and savor a leisurely breakfast at the resort. Enjoy the serene ambiance and stunning views as you enjoy your relaxing day.
Spend the morning lounging by one of the resort’s two infinity pools or both! Soak in the breathtaking vistas and indulge in refreshing swims or simply relax on the poolside loungers with a good book or magazine.
Head to the resort’s tea room for a delightful afternoon tea. Enjoy a selection of fine teas accompanied by a variety of delectable pastries and light bites. Relax in the tranquil atmosphere and soak in the picturesque views as you unwind.
Take a leisurely stroll around the resort grounds, explore any nearby gardens, or if you’re in the mood for some light activity, consider a gentle hike or nature walk to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty surrounding the resort.
Return to the infinity pools for a sunset swim or find a comfortable spot to enjoy the evening views. Perhaps enjoy a casual meal or drink at the resort’s dining area, soaking in the relaxed ambiance.
Cap off your day with a serene dinner at the resort’s restaurant, savoring exquisite local or international cuisine while reflecting on a day of perfect relaxation.
This day at leisure is designed to provide you with ultimate relaxation and a chance to fully appreciate the resort’s luxurious amenities and stunning surroundings.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 5:
exploring pu loung: a trek & bike ride
Begin your day among the clouds. The property offers an array of ways to start your day; sleep into the sounds of nature, greet the morning with an easy walk enjoy the sunrise, anchor with a self guided morning meditation or yoga session, or simply savor a cup of hot coffee or tea by the swimming pool. This tranquil morning will offer unforgettable moments and a deep connection with nature. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at your leisure to energize yourself for the day’s adventure.
At 9 a.m. we’ll meet in the lobby for a thrilling day adventure exploring the villages through trekking and cycling. We start with a walk descending into the lush valley in front of the Retreat while enjoying picturesque views of rice terraces. Continue on a snack scenic path through natural vegetation leading you to the charming Uoi village. Nestled at the base of a dramatic mountain, this vantage point offers a breathtaking bird’s-eye view from the top of the pass.
The trek downhill continues to a local home where you'll switch to a bike to explore the tranquil Lan village renowned for its beautiful embroidery crafts. Lan village is also adorned with a small stream winding through the area, providing natural outdoor bathing spots for villagers who enjoy it after long farming days. Cycle through verdant rice paddies and cross hanging bridges as you immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes.
Pause for lunch at a welcoming local house where you can enjoy the picturesque views. After, we’ll cycle to Hieu Village to admire the Hieu Waterfall, the only waterfall in the reserve. Conclude your biking adventure at the designated bike parking area, then return to Pu Luong Retreat to relax and unwind.
This day promises a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation, offering a unique and immersive experience in the heart of Pu Luong’s natural beauty.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 6:
to ninh binh - A visit with langurs & Cuc Phuong National Park
Enjoy coffee, a delightful breakfast and one last morning of gorgeous views before packing and checking out. Our morning starts at 9 am with a scenic three-hour drive through the countryside as we make our way to Ninh Binh.
Arrive at Cuc Phuong National Park. Enjoy a delightful lunch at the Park’s headquarters, before an afternoon of visiting the Endangered Primate Center and Turtle Conservation Center. Here, you’ll have the rare opportunity to observe some of the world’s most endangered species, including the critically endangered Delacour's langur and the Cat Ba langur. Learn about the center’s vital conservation efforts, including its breeding programs aimed at protecting these unique long-tailed monkeys and other rare species like the Black and Lao langur and the Grey-shanked Douc langur.
After time at the conservation center, we will embark on a guided hike through the lush landscape of Cuc Phuong National Park. This is a 2-3 hour guided walk on easy, flat terrain covering around 3-4 miles or 6-7 kilometers. Discover the park's rich botanical diversity and immerse yourself in its natural beauty. Your hike will lead you to the impressive one-thousand-year-old sequoia tree and a cave once inhabited by prehistoric people, now a haven for bats.
After a full day of exploring, we will head to our accommodation and settle in. We’ll meet up later to enjoy dinner together as we reflect on a day filled with discovery and natural wonders.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 7:
exploring ninh binh - boat ride + views
Rise and shine…it’s adventure time! After a hearty breakfast, meet in the lobby for our transfer to our morning adventure!
Today we are exploring Hang Mua – also known as Dancing Cave. This unique site features a “miniature Great Wall” with nearly 500 steps leading up Ngoa Long Mountain. The trek is moderate, with uneven limestone steps, but the effort is rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Tam Coc, Trang An, and Ninh Binh city from the summit.
Next the journey continues to Tam Coc where we'll embark on a serene ride rowing boats along the river. Glide through the tranquil landscape, marveling at the striking karst towers and lush rice fields. As you explore the renowned caves and pagodas of Tam Coc and Bich Dong, you'll discover historical significance, including caves used by the Viet Minh during the First Indochina War. Some of these caves feature stalactites carved into Buddhist images and hollow formations that create melodious flute-like sounds.
We’ll stop to enjoy a delicious lunch, soaking in the local flavors and relaxing before the adventure continues.
Next we will visit the ancient site of Hoa Lu, the former capital of the Dinh and Le dynasties dating back to the 11th century. Although much of the citadel has eroded, the remaining temples still hold historical and architectural significance. Explore the royal temple of the early Le Dynasty, Dai Hanh, and Dinh Tien Hoang, which houses a statue of Emperor Dinh Bo Linh and his sons. For a rewarding experience, climb the 200 steps to gain a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside.
Our final stop takes us to Bai Dinh Pagoda, a grand Buddhist complex nestled on a hillside near Ninh Binh. Completed in 2010, this impressive site is renowned for its expansive layout and picturesque surroundings, especially during sunset. The complex hosts major Buddhist ceremonies and offers a stunning contrast against the limestone landscapes and rice paddies.
After a full day of adventure, we will make our way back to resort to enjoy dinner together and relax for the rest of the evening.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 8:
good bye vietnam - or - hello ha long bay!
Wake up and begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at the resort, allowing time to savor your final moments in this tranquil setting.
There will be one group transfer to Hanoi Now Bai International Airport (HAN). The journey takes 2-3 hours depending on traffic. For guests with afternoon flights, the transfer will take you directly to the airport.
For Guests Flying Out the Next Morning
If you need to stay overnight in Hanoi, we can arrange a hotel accommodation for you at an additional fee. You will be transferred to your Hanoi hotel, where you can relax and refresh before your flight the next day. Transfers back to the airport will be arranged for the following morning, ensuring an stress-free departure.
Meals: Breakfast
For Guests Traveling to Ha Long Bay
If your journey continues to Ha Long Bay, you’ll enjoy a 3.5 hour transfer to Tuan Chau Marina. See Ha Long Bay Extension for trip details.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
CRUISE HALONG BAY
3 day / 2 night trip extension
October 22-24, 2025
Day 8:
HaLong Bay luxury cruise
After checking out from your hotel in Ninh Binh and transfer to Ha Long Bay. Enjoy a scenic drive of approximately 3.5 hours to Tuan Chau Marina.
Arrive at Tuan Chau Marina. Complete check-in procedures at the waiting lounge then board a tender boat to the Orchid Cruise. Upon arrival, receive a warm welcome with drinks and gather in the restaurant for a cruise briefing and safety instructions.
Enjoy a sumptuous lunch onboard as the cruise sets sail through Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay, celebrated as one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature.
Our first stop is a visit to Trung Trang Cave on Cat Ba Island. Located in Trung Trang Valley, the cave stretches 300 meters through the mountain and is surrounded by the lush Kim Giao Forest. Explore its fascinating stalactites and the mysterious beauty shaped by millions of years of geological processes.
Return to the Orchid Cruise as it sails into the less crowded area of Tra Bau in Lan Ha Bay. Take a refreshing swim in the emerald green waters.
Onboard you’ll have the opportunity to join a cooking demonstration onboard, and enjoy Happy Hour at the bar while admiring the sunset views over the bay. If you want to enjoy a little additional relaxation, you can book a massage service directly with the Cruise Manager.
Tonight delight in a fusion dinner prepared with the freshest ingredients in an elegant dining space combining French neoclassical and traditional oriental styles.
Spend the evening basking in the beauty of Ha Long Bay at night. Relax at the bar on the sundeck, try your luck with squid fishing, watch a movie in the restaurant, engage in a game of chess or cards or enjoy a night cap on your private balcony.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 9:
explore Puluong nATURE PRESERVE & local villages
Begin your day slowly with coffee on your private balcony or rise and shine to participate in a serene early morning Tai Chi session offered on the sundeck.
Today our journey continues with a delicious breakfast while cruising through the picturesque waters of one of the 7 Wonders of the World!
Today’s adventure starts with a boat transfer to Viet Hai Village. Enjoy a scenic bicycle ride along village paths, through rainforests, and a dark tunnel. Admire the breathtaking views of rice fields and take a relaxing stop at the village. Visit an ancient local house built from straw, mud, and bamboo, and experience the traditional way of life in this picturesque valley.
Just before mid day we will return to the boat enjoy a leisurely lunch and further exploration of Lan Ha Bay.
In the early afternoon, we will arrive at Ba Trai Dao (Three Peaches Islets). This tranquil area is perfect for scenic kayaking or relaxing on a sandy beach surrounded by stunning natural beauty. We will enjoy a few hours here to explore.
Back on board participate in a cooking class, take a refreshing swim in an untouched area of the bay, or enjoy Happy Hour at the bar while watching the magnificent sunset over the Gulf of Tonkin. Later savor a fusion dinner crafted with local ingredients prepared by the talented catering staff.
Finish the day with a relaxing evening on the top deck, enjoying the night view of Ha Long Bay with a drink from the bar. You can also try your luck at night squid fishing, watch a movie in the restaurant, or unwind with a game of chess or cards.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 10:
kayaking HaLong Bay before saying goodbye!
Begin with coffee on your private balcony or recharge with a refreshing Tai Chi session on the sundeck, taking in the peaceful beauty of Ha Long Bay. For those interested in dawn photography, we’ll consult with our sailors for the best spots.
Savor your breakfast while your cruise continues to discover the hidden charms of Ha Long and Lan Ha Bay. We will make a stop at the Ao Ech area where you will have an opportunity to explore on kayak. At 8:30 am we will return to the cruise and prepare for check-out. Savor a delightful brunch as the cruise makes its final journey back to the marina.
Disembark at Tuan Chau Marina at 11:30 a.m. and you bid farewell to the cruise and meet your driver at the pier for a transfer to Hanoi international airport. The drive will take approximately 3-4 hours depending on traffic. Most flights out of Hanoi leave in the evening and we recommend a departure time of 6:30 p.m. or later.
If you wish to spend one final night at a hotel or extend your trip, we’d be happy to help make additional arrangements for you.
Meals: Breakfast and Brunch
Questions? Please reach out to US at INFO@womenwhoexplore.com
Ready to Book?
Ready to Book?
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$3,295 double occupancy in 4-star to 5-star luxury resorts with infinity pools, jacuzzis, and on-site spa services available for self-booking.
Single supplement offered at booking for $995 per person.
Ha Long and Lan Ha Bay Extension - $895 per person double occupancy or $1,295 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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• 7 nights stay in luxury accommodations: 2 nights stay in a luxury 5-star boutique hotel in Hanoi, 3 nights at a luxury Eco Retreat in Pu Luong, 2 night at a gorgeous 4-star resort in Ninh Binh
• Yin Yang cooking class with female Top 5 Master Chef Vietnam Vu Thi Ngoc Ai
• Hanoi highlights guided city tour including + entrance to women’s history museum
• Rickshaw cycle ride through the Old Quarters of Hanoi
• Guided tour to Hang Mua - Dancing Cave, Tam Coc, Bich Dong, Hoa Lu, and Bai Dinh pagoada for sunset.
• Guided tour and donation to Endangered Primate Center & Turtle Conservation Center, home to the rare and endangered Delacour's langur and the Cat Ba languor.
• Visit a 1,000 year old Sequio tree on a guided hike in the Cuc Phuong National Park.
• Guided biking and walking tour of Uoi, Lan, and Hieu villages, learn about traditional ways of life and visit Hieu waterfall.
• Private airport transfers to/from Hanoi International Airport (HAN). Multiple transfers will be available for both arrival and departure date.
• Private driver and transportation between domestic destinations, to tours, etc.
• Meals - 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 5 dinners
• 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 13 guests + your WWE trip host
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• 3 day/ 2 night Ha Long and Lan Ha Bay cruise in a luxury double occupancy room with a private balcony. This boat has a total of 14 cabins.
• Explore the Trung Trang Valley as you sail through Ha Long Bay
• Visit Tra Bau Lan Ha Bay and enjoy a swim in emerald green waters
• Kayaking experience exploring the gorgeous Ao Ech area of HaLong Bay (~1 hour)
• Participate in onboard cooking demonstrations and enjoy onboard games such as chess and cards.
• Meal included: 3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners
• Transfer to Hanoi hotel and to Hanoi International Airport (HAN)
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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
• Hanoi Hidden Alley Tour with Street Food (optional add-on experience)
• 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
• 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 (not required for Vietnam as of 2/2023)
• 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.