Vietnam Explorer Tour
15 - 28 August 2025
About the tour
Vietnam is an incredible destination that offers a perfect blend of vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable experiences. This dynamic country will leave you awe-struck at every turn.
Start your adventure in Hanoi, where you can wander the lively Old Quarter, sipping on strong Vietnamese coffee as you explore ancient temples and bustling markets. Head north to the stunning Ha Long Bay, where thousands of emerald islands rise out of the sea, offering opportunities for cruising, kayaking, and relaxing amidst one of the world's most scenic spots.
Down south, Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) pulses with energy, its streets brimming with motorbikes, street food vendors, and colonial architecture. You can visit the moving War Remnants Museum or escape the city for a cruise on the Mekong Delta, where you’ll float through peaceful canals and immerse yourself in the local way of life.
For nature lovers, Vietnam's landscapes are a dream—lush rice terraces in Hoi An, pristine beaches like those in Quy Nhon, and the majestic mountains of Ninh Binh. And let’s not forget the food: from the aromatic pho to fresh banh mi sandwiches, every meal is a culinary adventure you’ll want to savor.
Vietnam is an exciting, enriching, and vibrant destination that will inspire you at every turn.
About your tour host
Erin Mitchell
As Director and head Travel Designer at Her Tribe Travels, Erin Mitchell knows a thing or two about travel and escorting tours.
Having worked in the industry for over 25 years, Erin has a passion for people and delivering unique and meaningful travel experiences. Erin has escorted corporate and leisure groups to all corners of the globe so you can be assured you are in safe, reliable and capable hands.
Having launched Her Tribe Travels in late 2019, sadly Covid19 interrupted what was going to be an amazing lineup of tours for 2020 and beyond. With two successful tours to India in 2019 and early 2020 and a tour to Vivid Sydney in 2024, Erin is so excited to reignite her passion for travel with the launch of her 2025 tours, and is looking forward to experiencing the world again.
Here is what some previous tour ladies had to say about the Her Tribe Travels tour experience:
"Wow, wow, wow! India was everything I imagined and so much more. The colours, the sights, the sounds and the people! This Her Tribe Travels tour gives you a true Indian experience in every essence of the word"
"The highlight for me was seeing the Taj Mahal up close and personal. It has always been on my bucket list and to be able to stand and marvel at its size and beauty is something I will never forget thanks to Her Tribe Travels. Erin and her company are able to take every day experiences and turn them into something truly special!"
"I've just returned from a Vivid Sydney womens tour, what a wonderful time! Every detail was sorted by Erin at Her Tribe Travels, I didn't have to think of a thing! She was always tapping into how everyone was feeling and what she could do for them in a very discreet and gentle way. Erin is a great personality and an absolutely lovely person that was able to cater to all of our needs."
"Erin and her company took care of every last detail, so it meant all I needed to do was board the plane and start my adventure. It was so easy travelling in a group and I always felt safe and well looked after."
Tour Inclusions
- Accommodation:
- 2 nights accommodation, twin share basis in 4 star property in Hanoi
- 1 nights accommodation, twin share basis on 5 star Ha Long Bay cruise
- 1 nights accommodation, twin share basis in 4 star property in Ninh Binh
- 4 nights accommodation, twin share basis in 4 star property in Hoi An
- 1 nights accommodation, twin share basis in 5 star property in Quy Nhon
- 2 nights accommodation, twin share basis in 4 star property in Ho Chi Minh
- 2 nights accommodation, twin share basis on 4 star Mekong Delta cruise
- Meal plan consisting of:
- Breakfast daily
- Nine lunches
- Five dinners
- Activities & monuments as follows:
- City tour of Hanoi by vintage open air army jeep
- Visit to Tran Ang Unesco world heritage site in Ninh Binh
- Cycle tour with market visit and cooking class in Hoi An
- Afternoon walking tour of Hoi An ancient town
- Lantern making workshop
- My Son Sanctuary day trip (Unesco World Heritage centre)
- Day trip on the Vietage luxury train from Hoi An to Quy Nhon
- Half day city tour of Ho Chi Minh
- Evening street food tour in Ho Chi Minh
- Activities and excursions included on the Ha Long Bay & Mekong Delta cruises
- Other inclusions:
- English speaking guide
- Transportation in private mini coach throughout
- Bottled water x 1 per day
- All entrance fees to venues mentioned above
- Her Tribe Travels tour host
Tour pricing - twin share
NZD$4,995 per person (based on 10 people travelling)
Airfares & Exclusions
Return airfares to Vietnam are not included in the package price and can be booked directly with Her Tribe Travels.
As an indication return international economy airfares on Singapore Airlines are NZD$1,650* per person including airport departure taxes. This fare includes 23kg checked in luggage per person. A Her Tribe Travels booking fee of NZD$150 applies for any flight bookings. *Specials do appear regularly with various airlines.
The tour price does not include items such as spending money, food and beverages (other than those specified in inclusions), pre/post tour arrangements, Vietnam domestic internal flights (approx NZD$350 per person), optional tours, and activities not specified, tips/gratuity, laundry, telephone/fax calls, spa treatments, still & video camera fees at monuments, excess luggage for flights, medical expenses, visa fees and travel insurance.
Rooms are based on twin share however a single supplement cost is available at an additional NZD$2,295 per person (for a guaranteed single room).
ITINERARY
DAY 1 - HANOI
Friday 15 August.
Upon arrival in Hanoi, you will be greeted by our guide and transferred to the hotel in the city center.
Check-in and free time at leisure.
In the evening the group will enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant for a first taste of the amazing Vietnamese food, followed by a gentle stroll around the old quarter to get acquainted with your surrounds.
Enjoy a lovely, relaxed evening to rest and recover from your flight.
*Meal: Dinner
*Accommodation: 4 star hotel in the old quarter
DAY 2 - HANOI
Saturday 16 August.
Breakfast at hotel.
This morning we embark on a city tour with a difference! We will be greeted by the Hanoi Jeep Tours guide and driver at the hotel lobby for a safety briefing and we then begin our adventure on vintage open air army jeeps!
On the first part of our Hanoi Jeep Tour, we expose you to the real Hanoi with 'day in the life' experiences, featuring unknown parts of the city. Experience slices of life in the maze of backstreets, tiny alleyways, local homes, schools and markets. On this tour you will experience how locals live, work and play.
On the second part of the tour, we pass / stop by by the must see places of this beautiful city such as the Ho Chi Minh mausoleum - the Mecca of the Vietnamese, the 1000 year-old Buddhist and Toasist temples of Tran Quoc, the temple of literature, the historical train-street, the enchanting French Quarter, the hustling & bustling old quarter, the romantic lakes of Hoan Kiem & West lake, the Hanoi opera house and the famous Long Bien bridge.
Included in our jeep tour is a lunch at the Hidden Gem cafe, known as the prettiest cafe in Hanoi featuring heirloom family recipes passed down through the generations.
*Meal: Breakfast & Lunch
*Accommodation: 4 star hotel in the old quarter
DAY 3 - NINH BINH
Sunday 17 August.
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel.
This morning we farewell Hanoi and enjoy a two hour drive to the Trang An Landscape Complex in Ninh Binh Province.
Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014, Trang An is famed for its spectacular landscape of limestone karst peaks whose sheer vertical walls rise abruptly 200m (656ft) above the surrounding land and water.
Dense rain forest covers the landscape, clinging to the cliffs and peaks, blending naturally with lush rice paddy fields and rivers, creating a picturesque patchwork of color. We visit Hoa Lu - the historic capital of Vietnam and the famous ancient temples of Le and the Dinh Dynasties before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant.
In the afternoon we will take a boat trip around Trang An to visit the cave complex (Sang Cave, Toi Cave, Ba Giot Cave, Nau Ruou Cave). We also have a chance to admire the beautiful scenery of the Vietnamese countryside with an optional climb of Hang Mua. At the top you will take in a wonderful view of the landscape - mountains, valley and river. A very special and spectacular view awaits us from Hang Mua over Tam Coc and Ninh Binh’s stunning countryside.
(Optional: You can choose to ride a bike through the countryside to Hang Mua and relax if you don't wish to make the climb up Hang Mua.)
Enjoy a relaxing afternoon and evening in Ninh Binh at our lovely retreat accommodation. Dinner at leisure.
*Meal: Breakfast & Lunch
*Accommodation: 4 star retreat
DAY 4 - HA LONG BAY / LAN HA BAY
Monday 18 August.
After breakfast we will depart for a 2 and a half hour journey to Ha Long Bay. This UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its stunning limestone islets and crescent beaches.
On arrival in Ha Long Bay we will board our deluxe cruiser, settle into our cabins and prepare our appetites for an enjoyable lunch on deck whilst cruising through the spectacular waters of the bay.
In the afternoon enjoy a relaxing kayak through the lagoon, have a refreshing swim, enjoy a masssage (own cost) or simply relax on board and enjoy the sunset. Dinner will be served onboard this evening.
*Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
*Accommodation: 5* Ha Long Bay Cruise (1 night / 2 days)
DAY 5 - HOI AN
Tuesday 19 August.
This morning we rise and shine nice and early to take a position on the upper deck to witness the sun rise over the bay. Early morning is truly a magical time on the bay as the limestone karsts appear all around you in different shapes, sizes and colours.
Enjoy brunch on board before arriving at Ha Long city pier at noon where transportation will be waiting for our drive back to Hanoi.
This evening we will fly from Hanoi to Danang and transfer on arrival to Hoi An ancient town, one of Vietnam's most beautiful towns.
Evening and dinner at leisure.
*Meal: Breakfast, Lunch
*Accommodation: 4* hotel in the ancient town
DAY 6 - HOI AN
Wednesday 20 August.
This morning after breakfast a local guide will meet us for a briefing of our cycle tour and cooking class.
Firstly we will cycle through the local market and pick out our spices and vegetables for the cooking class.
We continue cycling for an hour through rice fields and peaceful villages before arriving at a vegetable village where we will take a pleasant walk through the garden and learn the different types of culinary herbs and vegetables which will be used in the cooking class.
Next we meet our chef at the restaurant and learn about the recipes we will be preparing and cooking together. At the conclusion of the cooking class we will all enjoy lunch together (savouring the finished products from our lesson) before beginning our gentle cycle back to the hotel.
Time at leisure for a few hours.
In the afternoon, we will explore Hoi An Ancient town on a walking tour.
Hoi An’s narrow lanes are ideal for a guided walking tour of its many atmospheric sights including the old merchant houses with influences from Chinese, Japanese and Vietnamese architecture; the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge, first built in the 1590s by the Japanese community to link them with the Chinese quarters across the stream; the Assembly Hall of the Chaozhou Chinese Congregation with its intricate woodcarvings; and the colorful market with stalls brimming with local specialties including silk, which can be turned into fashionable garments within a day or two.
We will also enjoy a lantern making workshop to learn how to make a lantern, “the symbol of Hoi An”, and you’ll have a chance to paint it in your own style.
In the evening we will make our way to the Nguyen Hoang night market. Dinner and evening at leisure. We recommend you enjoy taking a stroll through the ancient town at night, it really is a sight to behold with the floating lanterns and boats and the beautifully lit streets and buildings.
*Meal: Breakfast & Lunch
*Accommodation: 4* hotel in the ancient town
DAY 7 - MY SON SANCTUARY
Thursday 21 August.
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel.
This morning, we visit My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO world heritage centre. Between the 4th and 13th centuries, a unique culture which owed its spiritual origins to Indian Hinduism developed on the coast of contemporary Vietnam. This is graphically illustrated by the remains of a series of impressive tower-temples located in a dramatic site that was once the religious and political capital of the Champa Kingdom for most of its existence.
We will have 2 hours to discover the site by walking through the landscape, exploring Champa cultures and the remaining structures. We will also enjoy the Champa's traditional performances (Apsara Dance).
After the tour, we return to the hotel.
The rest of the day is free for you to relax poolside, or perhaps you might like to book in a massage or facial at one of the many affordable day spas in the ancient town.
*Meal: Breakfast
*Accommodation: 4* hotel in the ancient town
DAY 8 - HOI AN
Friday 22 August.
Today is a full day at leisure for you to enjoy however you wish. You might like to wander the markets and enjoy a spot of shopping, or perhaps book a full day at a day spa to treat yourself.
Alternatively make your way out to one of the local beaches to explore, or opt for a river cruise, or coconut boat adventure.
*Meal: Breakfast
*Accommodation: 4* hotel in ancient town
DAY 9 - VIETAGE LUXURY TRAIN JOURNEY
Saturday 23 August.
After breakfast this morning we will transfer to Danang Railway Station.
Today, you’ll embark on an unforgettable railway adventure through the lush landscapes and spectacular scenery of central Vietnam aboard The Vietage by Anantara luxury train.
For the six-hour journey between Da Nang and Quy Nhon, there’s time to relax and admire the changing landscapes of the region, to savour inspired gastronomy and to socialise and reconnect – or simply tune out and take a breath.
On the train, a pre-ordered three-course gourmet meal will be served. complimentary snacks, free-flow selected wine, cocktails, mocktails, luxury afternoon teas, coffee, and soft drinks are included, plus a 15-minute head and shoulder treatment. Onboard hosts ensure every journey is a memorable one.
We finish the rail journey in Quy Nhon - a place of tranquil coves, verdant national parks and ancient temples.
On arrival in Quy Nhon we will transfer to our stunning beachside villas. Afternoon and dinner at leisure.
*Meal: Breakfast, Lunch
*Accommodation: 5* villas in Quy Nhon
DAY 10 - HO CHI MINH
Sunday 24 August.
After breakfast we will be transferred to the airport for our onward flight to Ho Chi Minh City.
After we have checked in and enjoyed a bite for lunch (own arrangements) we will embark on a tour to explore the biggest city in Vietnam - Ho Chi Minh.
Firstly, visiting the war remnants museum, followed by the reunification palace, an architectural work and famous building in Ho Chi Minh City. This used to be the residence and working place of the President of the Republic of Vietnam. Near the palace you'll see some of the finest examples of French colonial architecture such as the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office.
In the evening get ready for a street food tour like no other. We will discover this fantastic 'foodie' city by bike, on the back of Vespa's with local guides. Get ready for a fun evening out, exploring and eating the local way!
*Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
*Accommodation: 4* central city hotel
DAY 11 - MEKONG DELTA
Monday 25 August.
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before we transfer to the meeting point of our Mekong Delta cruise (1 night / 2 days).
We will board our wooden river cruise vessel around noon and after a refreshing welcome drink you can relax and settle into your cosy cabin.
As lunch is served, we begin our cruise. Sit back and watch the fantastic scenery and the daily life of the Mekong people as we cruise by.
In the afternoon we disembark for a guided leisurely stroll through a village and the surrounding fruit orchards and rice fields. Meet the friendly locals and taste the local produce and fruits.
On our return to the boat, enjoy a drink at the bar or relax on deck as the sun sets over the magnificent water landscape of the Mekong river. The day ends with a delicious on-board dinner.
*Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
*Accommodation: 5* Mekong Delta cruise
DAY 12 - MEKONG DELTA
Tuesday 26 August.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast on the cruise this morning.
Today we will board small traditional rowing boats (sampans) to explore the canals, enjoy "Đờn ca tài tử” (Folk Music) and visit home-made handicraft families on Tan Phong islet. Followed by a gentle bicycle ride on back roads or a walk in a small village along the Mekong canal.
After lunch there will be a visit to one of the local villages where you can interact with locals and learn about their life on the side of Mekong River.
Dinner on board and evening at leisure on the cruise.
*Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
*Accommodation: 5* Mekong Delta cruise
DAY 13 - MEKONG DELTA & HO CHI MINH
Wednesday 27 August.
This morning we will board a sampan boat to Cai Rang floating market, the region’s busiest and most lively market. Marvel at the sheer abundance of exotic fruits and vegetables as you weave your way through the various vendors.
Mid morning the cruise will return to port and we will transfer back to Ho Chi Minh with lunch enroute.
Final evening at leisure in Ho Chi Minh with farewell dinner (own cost).
*Meal: Breakfast & Lunch
*Accommodation: 4* central city hotel
DAY 14 - END OF TOUR
Thursday 28 August.
After breakfast you will be transferred to the airport for your onward journey.
*Meal: Breakfast
How to Book
To reserve your place on this tour please register your contact details with Erin Mitchell at Her Tribe Travels via email [email protected] or call +64 21 931 995.
In order to confirm your booking Her Tribe Travels will require a non-refundable deposit of NZD$1,500 per person within 7 days of reserving your spot on the tour.
We also require a copy of the front inside photo page of your passport to be emailed to [email protected].
A tour progress payment and final balance payment schedule will be emailed to you upon confirmation of your tour spot.
At confirmation stage we will also need an indication from you as to whether you wish to book your flights with Her Tribe Travels (additional airfare cost applies and will be required to be paid upon booking flights) and any pre/post tour extension requirements (payment terms for pre/post tour extensions will be advised once quoted).
Note: Any applicable entry visa (required) and travel insurance is the responsibility of each traveler however Her Tribe Travels would be very happy to assist with any traveler requirements (fees may apply).
Terms and Conditions
Tour is based on a minimum of 10 people travelling together. If the minimum traveler number is not met we reserve the right to cancel the tour (and will refund the deposit accordingly) or alternatively we may choose to offer for the tour to go ahead with less numbers (subject to pricing changes based on lower numbers).
All rooms are based on twin share (two people sharing rooms with two beds). Single supplements are available for any travelers wishing to upgrade to a single room. The single supplement additional cost is NZD$2,295 per person (based on single share).
In case of any currency fluctuations or amendment in local Government taxes, or any fuel hike, we reserve the right to adjust the tour price accordingly. The due increase or decrease will be communicated accordingly.
All hotels are subject to change based on final traveler numbers and availability of securing hotel rooms.
In the case of client cancellation after confirmation, the non-refundable deposit will be retained by Her Tribe Travels. If the client cancels once full payment has been made then full cancellation fees will apply. It is strongly recommended that you take out travel insurance for unforeseen cancellation.
In the event of an unforeseen circumstance that would inhibit travel (i.e. natural disaster, force majeure) the local supplier would waive cancellation policies and only charge an administrative fee. The client would still be liable for any non-recoverable funds made to third party vendors as well as any assessed bank transaction fees.
Any payments made by credit card will incur a 2.5% credit card surcharge.
Travelers are required to cover the costs of any additional medical / evacuation services should these services be necessary during the tour (travel insurance is mandatory for medical/evacuation purposes). A final word from Her Tribe Travels...
This bespoke itinerary has been crafted with a love for what we do. Our company is passionate about women who love to travel and we believe we have a knack for creating custom tour itineraries that leave clients mesmerised. Please respect our creativity, uniqueness and hard work by not sharing this itinerary with any other supplier or travel agent/company to price check/compete. If you love what you see, appreciate the value in our expertise & knowledge and want to explore the world with us then we believe we are the right fit for you. This document, content and IP is private and confidential between Her Tribe Travels and our clients only.
Thank you for your understanding.
P +64 21 931 995 | E [email protected]