• Highlights of Vientiane, the capital of Laos, and Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Visit the Buddha Cave and take a sunset cruise on the Mekong River back to Luang Prabang
• Hike to local villages and Kuang Si Waterfalls

Itinerary

Day 1 Vientiane arrival, Airport Pickup

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You will be warmly welcomed at Vientiane Airport. You will also be escorted to your hotel.

Day 2 Vientiane half day tour, train to Luang Prabang

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You will be picked up at your hotel in Vientiane at 9:00 am for morning departure and begins at the serene Wat Sisaket, the only temple left intact after the Siamese (Thai) invasion in 1828. It is one of the most beautiful temples in the capital, and its breezy teak covered hallways are filled with thousands of miniature Buddha statues.

Continue on to the nearby Wat Phra Keo. Used as a religious museum, Wat Phra Keo displays a collection of both Lao and Khmer works of art. Also nearby is the Presidential Palace. Although you are not allowed to visit inside, it is a good glimpse in to the town’s colonial past as this building formerly served as the French governor’s palace. Visit COPE Visitor Centre, an association working to help landmine victims. A visit to the center provides in-depth information about the history of the American/Vietnam war and the lasting impact of unexplored ordinances (UXO) in the area and the efforts underway to clear them.

Next visit the Patuxay monument, Laos’ version of the Arc de Triomphe, where you can climb the stairs to the roof for sweeping panoramic views of the city. Finally, visit That Luang, the holiest site in Laos. Constructed by King Setthethirat in the 16th century, the temple is resplendent as the sun is shines upon its towering golden spire.

Day 3 Luang Prabang City, Pak Ou Caves, Mekong River Cruise

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We will pick you up again at 8:30 and take you to  a small park on the peninsula tip. You will have a brief introduction to Luang Prabang, standing where the Nam Khan River meets the Mekong River. From there, walk to the famous Wat Xieng Thong temple. For centuries, the temple was considered the ceremonial gateway to the city and was the arrival and departure point for foreign dignitaries. We will walk up the stairs to the main gate and enter the temple like ancient dignitaries.

Next, we will go temple hopping in the neighborhood. At Wat Sene, where there is a school for novice monks, you may meet again with novice monks you met on the morning alms. Finally, we will visit the Royal Palace museum. It houses a lot of interesting historical items. Every item tells a story…so you will learn quite a lot from your guide about Lao history and about Laos’ royal.

Transfer to Manifa Elephant Camp for lunch. You will be offered a delicious buffet lunch at the restaurant overlooking the Mekong river and meet elephants roaming free. In the afternoon we will visit Pak Ou Caves by boat. We will see 4000 Buddha icons in the caves overlooking the Mekong River. After a stop at a village where Laotian rice wine is made, enjoy a two-hour sunset cruise on the Mekong River back to Luang Prabang.

(Lunch)

Day 4 Trek to Kuang Si Waterfall

Pick up time at 8:30 AM, we drive to southeast of Luang Prabang and arrive at our starting point a Hmong and Khmu village Ban Long Lao village. After seeing this village, we enter into jungle forests. Trekking across rice paddies, the orchards, farm land and forest, we will see the beauty scenery of Luang Prabang countryside on the way. As we continue to trekking, we reach the mountainous jungle and find natural springs which are source of Kuang Si Waterfall. Then we take a rest to enjoy lunch.

kuang si waterfalls

After lunch, another half hour trek take us to the crystal clear Kuang Si Waterfall. We explore the three layered Kuang Si waterfall walk the trails of the nature reserve and swim in the refreshing turquoise water pools and also visit the Bear Rescue Center. On the way back to Luang Prabang, we stop at a Hmong village. Retuurn to your accommodation or city center between 5:30-6:00 PM.

Instead of the above-mentioned 4-hour trek starting from Ban Long Lao village, delay pick up time and take an easier 2-hour trek alternative starting from Ban Nong Heo is also possible if you request.

Day 5 Luang Prabang  Departure

Enjoy free time in Luang Prabang until flight time. we will transfer you to Luang Prabang airport.

Itinerary

You will be warmly welcomed at Pakse Airport. Your guide will meet you at the airport and transfer to Done Daeng, and home to La Folie Lodge where you have the rest of the day to relax or to explore the island. Overnight on Done Daeng

After breakfast, drive to Wat Phou, located in the heart of Champasak, and the former Royal Capital of the Champa Kingdom. The pre-Angkorian Wat Phou temple was built between the 6th and 13th century and is situated on a hillside offering spectacular views of the surrounding plains and the Mekong River. The temple received World Heritage status from UNESCO in 2002 and is divided in two parts. The lower part consists of two ruined palace buildings at the edge of a pond, which was used for ritual ablutions. The upper section, the temple sanctuary itself, once enclosed a large Shiva phallus, known in Hindu religion as a linga but today is largely in ruins. It was later converted into a Buddhist temple but much of the original Hindu sculpture remains. The impressive Naga or snake-head lined stairway is surrounded by frangipani trees, the Lao national flower. Return to Don Daeng Island after lunch. Afterwards, free time in and around the hotel.

(Breakfast, Lunch)

After breakfast, we set off again to explore the surroundings of the 4000 islands. The Si Phan Don (meaning 4 000 Islands) is a riverine archipelago located in the Mekong River, Champasak Province in southern Laos. Si Phan Don is characterized by numerous islands, half of which are submerged when the Mekong River is in flood. The principal islands of Si Phan Don are Don Khong (the largest), and Don Det and Don Khone.

You cross the Mekong by small boat to Ban Muang pier. From here, drive 1.5 hours overland in your private minivan towards the Cambodian border. First stop at a boat pier in Ban Nakasang, where you board a small boat to cruise to Don Khone Island. Here, you can hop on a tuk tuk or bicycle and visit the remnants of the French colonial area, including an old pier, a railway station, a former French hospital building and the maritime office. Enjoy lunch on the island and continue in the afternoon with a visit to the Liphi waterfalls, nicknamed the “Corridor of the Devil“. Local daredevils put fish traps at the bottom of the falls to catch fresh fish each day.

Return back to the mainland and visit the Khone Phapheng waterfalls. The falls are the main reason why the Mekong River is not navigable into China. The majestic sight of the falls is a highlight of southern Laos, covering an impressive 10 km stretch of the Mekong.

Stay at a hotel on 4000 Island

(Breakfast, Lunch)

After breakfast, head to Pakse. Lunch in Pakse. Take the afternoon flight to Vientiane. Pick up from Vientiane Airport and transfer to hotel in Vientiane.

(Breakfast, Lunch)

Vientiane is a charming capital city adorned with temples and faded French colonial architecture. In this morning, you will get to know the capital on a city tour and visit major attractions such as Wat Sisaket, the oldest temple with thousands of miniature Buddha statues, and Wat Phra Keo, the former royal temple where the famous Emerald Buddha statue was located. On the way to the famous sacred structure, the That Luang Stupa, a national treasure of Laos, we will also have the opportunity to photograph the imposing Patuxai Monument, known as the Arc de Triomphe of Vientiane.

After lunch at a restaurant in town, Transfer to the railway staion. Take the train to Vang Vieng and be transferred to the hotel from Vang Vieng station.

(Breakfast, Lunch)

8:30 am after the breakfast you will be picked up by the tour guide to visit Nam Xay Viewpoint, you will start the climb to the viewpoint – 250m (approx. 30mins). Once you reach the top you will find the most spectacular views, with picturesque landscape over the paddy fields that “pop” out in clear view from their flat surroundings.

After the trek back down the mountain, you will continue to visit Tham Phu Kham Cave and Blue Lagoon. Tham Phu Kham Cave and Blue Lagoon is an improvised eco-water park in a scenic village close to Vang Vieng. Observe sharp stalactites and stalagmites as you descend down steep walls to reach the largest hall of the cave, which holds the bronze statue of a reclining Buddha, with several other smaller Buddha images revered by locals. The green-blue waters of the lagoon outside the cave provide a beautiful relaxation spot, as well as the opportunity to re-live your younger years as you jump off a tree into the water. During your tour, you can also try your hand at abseiling one of the water slides. You will be transferred back to the city and have time for lunch.

(Breakfast, Lunch)

Leave Vang Vieng in the morning and drive 235km, 7 hours to Phonsavan.

(Breakfast, Lunch)

Today we will spend one day touring the Plain of Jars and Xieng Khouang and take you to the legend of Jars and traces of the history of the Second Indochina War.  

After breakfast, we will move on to visit the Jarls Plain. The UNESCO World Heritage Committee has presented Laos with a certificate allowing the registration of the Jarls Plain as a World Heritage Site in 2019. The site encompasses hundreds of large stone jars scattered across the plateau. We will visit Thong Hai Hin, known as Jarl Site 1. It is the most visited archaeological site located 8 km southwest of the city. 

Jahr Site 2 (Hai Hin Hoo Sarat) is approximately 20 km southwest of the city. Next, at Ban Na Pia, near site 2, the villagers of Tay Puan reuse UXO scrap from unexploded bombs to make spoons, which they sell as souvenirs.

In the afternoon, we will head to the ancient capital of Muang Khoun, the 14th-century royal palace of the Phuan Kingdom and the capital of the French colonial provincial city until recently. Once a major city along with Luang Prabang, today only a few ruins remain, including Wat Piawat. The invasion of Thai and Vietnamese soldiers, the looting by Chinese bandits in the 19th century, and a bomb storm that lasted nearly a decade during the Second Indochina War left the town devastated, and the kingdom’s elaborate temples nothing remained. The parts of the town had been reduced to ruins by 1975.

Afterward, we return to Phonsavan at around 4 pm and visit MAG UXO Center and Official Tourist Information Center to deepen our understanding of history. 

(Breakfast, Lunch)

Phu Khoun

We head out from Phonsavan to Luang Prabang 260km. On the way, we stop at the town of Nong Tang and see a site of more than 200 years old Buddha images in Tham Pha Caves. The caves were also hospitals and shelters during the Indochina wars. We will stop and see varied Hmong and other hill tribe minority villages along the road. They are nice, friendly and welcome you to visit. Continue driving uphill, enjoying the mountain scenery, forest, and landscape. Around noon, we stop at Muang Phu Khoun, a village in the heart of the Hmong people. We have a lunch break and enjoy the magnificent mountain scenery.

Upon arrive in Luang Prabang before evening, climbing up Phousi Hill. Rising 150m in the centre of town, Mount Phousi cuts a distinctive figure on the Luang Prabang skyline. The hill is a popular as a place to watch the sunset. From the summit you enjoy spectacular 360 degree views across the city and its many temples, and over the surrounding landscape to the mountains in the distance. 

(Breakfast, Lunch)

mekong cruise

We will pick you up again at 8:30 and take you to  a small park on the peninsula tip. You will have a brief introduction to Luang Prabang, standing where the Nam Khan River meets the Mekong River. From there, walk to the famous Wat Xieng Thong temple. For centuries, the temple was considered the ceremonial gateway to the city and was the arrival and departure point for foreign dignitaries. We will walk up the stairs to the main gate and enter the temple like ancient dignitaries.

Next, we will go temple hopping in the neighborhood. At Wat Sene, where there is a school for novice monks, you may meet again with novice monks you met on the morning alms. Finally, we will visit the Royal Palace museum. It houses a lot of interesting historical items. Every item tells a story…so you will learn quite a lot from your guide about Lao history and about Laos’ royal.

Transfer to Manifa Elephant Camp for lunch. You will be offered a delicious buffet lunch at the restaurant overlooking the Mekong river and meet elephants roaming free. In the afternoon we will visit Pak Ou Caves by boat. We will see 4000 Buddha icons in the caves overlooking the Mekong River. After a stop at a village where Laotian rice wine is made, enjoy a two-hour sunset cruise on the Mekong River and return to Luang Prabang.

(Breakfast, Lunch)

This morning begins early in the morning (5:15 am in March to October and 05:45 in November to February. There is also an option without Alms giving). We pick you up from your hotel and you have a fantastic opportunity together with the locals to witness the captivating centuries old daily tradition of the alms giving ceremony. Following that, we visit local morning market. You return to your hotel for breakfast around 7;00.

We will visit Wat Wisunarat, the oldest temple in Luang Prabang. We take a van to Ban Thapene, a village which sits at the foot of the stunning Kuang Si Waterfalls. Upon arrival, you will have time to enjoy magnificent waterfalls as well as bear rescue center. After enjoying lunch at a private waterfall restaurant near the waterfall park, return to the city and spend free time in Luang Prabang. In the late afternoon, transferred to a small village called Ban Mano to witness the refined grace of a private Baci ceremony, led by the Nai Ban (village chief). As a welcome, the kind villagers will greet you and gently tie cotton cords around your wrists. These cords symbolize luck, friendship and good health and are the villagers’ way of offering you tidings of good fortune. The Baci ceremony will be held at a local family home where you can appreciate the great reverence for this important tradition.

(Breakfast, Lunch)

Enjoy free time in Luang Prabang until flight time. we will transfer you to Luang Prabang airport.

(Breakfast)

Reference Price

Accommodation prices are subject to change. See spreadsheet for all hotel options.

Itinerary

Day 1 Vientiane Arrival

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You will be warmly welcomed at Wattay Airport – Laos’ international airport. You will also be escorted to your hotel in downtown Vientiane

Day 2 Vientiane Tour

You will be picked up at your hotel in Vientiane at 9:00 am for morning departure and begins at the serene Wat Sisaket, the only temple left intact after the Siamese (Thai) invasion in 1828. It is one of the most beautiful temples in the capital, and its breezy teak covered hallways are filled with thousands of miniature Buddha statues.

Continue on to the nearby Wat Phra Keo. Used as a religious museum, Wat Phra Keo displays a collection of both Lao and Khmer works of art. Also nearby is the Presidential Palace. Although you are not allowed to visit inside, it is a good glimpse in to the town’s colonial past as this building formerly served as the French governor’s palace. Visit COPE Visitor Centre, an association working to help landmine victims. A visit to the center provides in-depth information about the history of the American/Vietnam war and the lasting impact of unexplored ordinances (UXO) in the area and the efforts underway to clear them.

Continue to the Patuxay monument, Laos’ version of the Arc de Triomphe, where you can climb the stairs to the roof for sweeping panoramic views of the city. Next, your tour takes you to That Luang, the holiest site in Laos. Constructed by King Setthethirat in the 16th century, the temple is resplendent as the sun is shines upon its towering golden spire.
There is a lunch break for about an hour and a half. Your guide will take you to a restaurant of your choice for your lunch break. For large groups, we can arrange restaurants in advance.

In the afternoon, first visit the Lao Textile Museum. At this small museum of Lao-style wooden houses and beautiful flower gardens, you can learn about the history and culture of Lao traditional silk weaving. Followed by a visit to Buddha Park, famous for being home to more than 200 religious statues, including a huge 40-meter Reclining Buddha image.

End your full-day tour of the capital along the banks of the Mekong River as the sun begins to set. Stroll along the river, stop to enjoy a cold drink, or sample a snack from one of the many local food stalls, if you like, before being transferred back to your hotel.

(Breakfast, Lunch)

Day 3 Vientiane – Luang Prabang – Nong Khiaw

After breakfast, drive to the railway station and take the train to Luang Prabang. Transfer to a minivan in Luang Prabang and drive to Nong Khiaw.

Travel about 3 hours by road from Luang Prabang to Nong Khiaw. On the way, stop at Ban Nayang, a village of the Lue people, for lunch. You’ll also have time to walk through a well-preserved village of beautiful traditional houses and see how textiles are made. Arrive at Nong Khiaw in the afternoon, then check-in at the hotel. We will hike to Pha Daeng Peak Viewpoint after (about 1.5 hours light climbing). (If climbing is difficult, we will guide you to another easily accessible viewpoint.)

(Breakfast, Lunch)

Day 4 Nong Khiaw – Nam Ou River Cruise to Muang Ngoi

After breakfast, transfer by traditional boat up stream on Nam Ou river to Muang Ngoy. We then trek to the Tham Kang, where according to local legend, a Naga resides to the rear. We then continue through rice paddy fields onto the Lao Loum village of Ban Na, which is only accessible by foot, so retains much of its original character. After lunch, we continue to walk to Ban Houaysene or Ban Houaybor. Afterwards, return to Muang Ngoy and take a boat back to Nong Khiaw.

(Breakfast, Lunch)

Day 5 Nong Khiaw – Manifa Elephant Camp – Pak Ou Caves – Luang Prabang (Mekong river sunset cruise)

At 8:30, our minivan will pick you up and visit Phathok Caves. Pha Thok Cave is a series of caves in a limestone cliff where villagers and Pathet Lao eluded bombing during the Second Indochina War. Then you will depart from Nong Khiaw to Manifa Elephant Camp by a 2 hour drive. You will be offered a delicious buffet lunch at the restaurant overlooking the Mekong river and meet elephants roaming free. In the afternoon we will visit Pak Ou Caves by boat. We will see 4000 Buddha icons in the caves overlooking the Mekong River. Enjoy a two-hour sunset cruise on the Mekong River and return to Luang Prabang.

(Breakfast, Lunch)

Day 6 Luang Prabang UNESCO World Heritage City Tour

This day begins early in the morning (5:15 am in March to October and 05:45 in November to February. There is also an option without Alms giving). We pick you up from your hotel and you have a fantastic opportunity together with the locals to witness the captivating centuries old daily tradition of the alms giving ceremony. Following that, we visit local morning market. You return to your hotel for breakfast around 7;00.

We will pick you up again at 8:30 and take you to  a small park on the peninsula tip. You will have a brief introduction to Luang Prabang, standing where the Nam Khan River meets the Mekong River. From there, walk to Wat Xieng Thong, the most revered temple in the country. Learn from your guide the typical architecture of the Luang Prabang style temples with their spectacular low sweeping roofs. Join local pilgrims for a glimpse into the daily Buddhist beliefs of the people.

Next, we will go temple hopping in the neighborhood. At Wat Sene, where there is a school for novice monks, you may meet again with novice monks you met on the morning alms.  Finally, we will visit the Royal Palace museum.  It houses a lot of interesting historical items. Every item tells a story…so you will learn quite a lot from your guide about Lao history and about Laos’ royal.

Lunch is at the Bio-Bamboo Restaurant, located in a small bamboo grove on the Nam Khan River, where you will enjoy delicious Luang Prabang cuisine served in unique bamboo bowls.

The afternoon begins with a visit to the papermaking village of Ban Xang Khong on the Mekong River just outside Luang Prabang; after learning about the history of the war at the UXO Lao Visitor Center, we will visit Wat Wisunarat, the oldest temple in Luang Prabang. The day ends with a climb up Phousi Hill. Rising 150m in the centre of town, you enjoy spectacular 360 degree sunset views across the city and its many temples, and over the surrounding landscape to the mountains in the distance.

The dress code at the Royal Palace is strict and all visitors are asked to dress conservatively, with no exceptions. Both men and women wearing short skirts or shorts are kindly asked to cover up before entering.

(Breakfast, Lunch)

Day 7 Luang Prabang Kuang Si Waterfalls

Pick up from your hotel at 8:30, you will be transfered to Ban Nong Heo, we will have some time to discover the charming Khmu village, with its traditional houses, its water buffalo and free-range ducks walking around, and even the farmers and master blacksmiths dealing with their daily tasks. Then, we will have the chance to join in an easy hike in the countryside, pass over hills, and through forests and plantations, with nice viewpoints to stop at along the way. You can refresh yourself with some fresh sugar cane that can be picked directly from the field to taste the juice. After a 2-hour walk in the beautiful natural environment, we will arrive at Ban Thapene, a village which sits at the foot of the stunning Kuang Si Waterfalls.

Enjoy lunch at the nearby private waterfall Carpe Diem Restaurant. We will spend time to explore the stunning Kuang Si Waterfall. On the way back to Luang Prabang, we will visit the village of the Hmong people.

(Breakfast, Lunch)

Day 8 Luang Prabang

Participate in one of the workshops and experiences in Luang Prabang.

• Rice Farm Experience in Living Land (8:00-12:00, including lunch)
• Half Day Pottery Experience at Ban Chan Nua  (8:30am -1pm, including lunch)
• Day time Tamarind Cooking class (9:00-3:00, including lunch)
• Ock Pop Tok Living Crafts Center Workshop (Natural Dye, Bamboo, Cotton, Silk Weaving etc.. 1 Day, 1/2 Day)

You can also take part in adventure tours with Manifa Travel or elephant experiences with Manifa Elephant Camp.

• Half-day Glimpse Elephant Mahout Experience (8:30-14:00, including lunch)
• Full-Day Amazing Elephant Mahout Experience + Sunset Cruise (8:30-18:00, including lunch)
• Full-Day Glimpse Elephant Mahout Experience, Tad Sae Waterfalls (8:30-18:00, including lunch)
• Tad Sae Waterfall & Kayak (8:30-17:00, including lunch)

(Breakfast)

Day 9 Luang Prabang Departure

Have breakfast at the hotel then enjoy a free morning before driving to the airport to catch your departure flight home. Meals on your own. End of services.

(Breakfast)

Reference Price

Accommodation prices are subject to change. See spreadsheet for all hotel options.

No accommodation

Itinerary

Day 1 Luang Prabang Arrival

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You will be warmly welcomed at Luang Prabang Airport. You will also be escorted to your hotel.

Day 2 Luang Prabang UNESCO world heritage tour / Mekong River Cruise / Pak Ou Caves

mekong cruise

This morning begins early in the morning (5:15 am in March to October and 05:45 in November to February. There is also an option without Alms giving). We pick you up from your hotel and you have a fantastic opportunity together with the locals to witness the captivating centuries old daily tradition of the alms giving ceremony. Following that, we visit local morning market. You return to your hotel for breakfast around 7;00.

We will pick you up again at 8:30 and take you to  a small park on the peninsula tip. You will have a brief introduction to Luang Prabang, standing where the Nam Khan River meets the Mekong River. From there, walk to the famous Wat Xieng Thong temple. For centuries, the temple was considered the ceremonial gateway to the city and was the arrival and departure point for foreign dignitaries. We will walk up the stairs to the main gate and enter the temple like ancient dignitaries.

Next, we will go temple hopping in the neighborhood. At Wat Sene, where there is a school for novice monks, you may meet again with novice monks you met on the morning alms. Finally, we will visit the Royal Palace museum. It houses a lot of interesting historical items. Every item tells a story…so you will learn quite a lot from your guide about Lao history and about Laos’ royal.

Transfer to Manifa Elephant Camp for lunch. You will be offered a delicious buffet lunch at the restaurant overlooking the Mekong river and meet elephants roaming free. In the afternoon we will visit Pak Ou Caves by boat. We will see 4000 Buddha icons in the caves overlooking the Mekong River. After a stop at a village where Laotian rice wine is made, enjoy a two-hour sunset cruise on the Mekong River and return to Luang Prabang.

(Breakfast, Lunch)

Day 3 Luang Prabang, Kuang SI Waterfalls

Pick up from your hotel at 8:30, you will be transfered to Ban Nong Heo, we will have some time to discover the charming Khmu village, with its traditional houses, its water buffalo and free-range ducks walking around, and even the farmers and master blacksmiths dealing with their daily tasks. Then, we will have the chance to join in an easy hike in the countryside, pass over hills, and through forests and plantations, with nice viewpoints to stop at along the way. You can refresh yourself with some fresh sugar cane that can be picked directly from the field to taste the juice. After a 2-hour walk in the beautiful natural environment, we will arrive at Ban Thapene, a village which sits at the foot of the stunning Kuang Si Waterfalls.

Enjoy lunch at the nearby private waterfall Carpe Diem Restaurant. We will spend time to explore the stunning Kuang Si Waterfall. On the way back to Luang Prabang, we will visit the village of the Hmong people.

After returning to the hotel and resting for a while, finish your day by climbing up Phousi Mountain. Rising 150m in the centre of town, Mount Phousi cuts a distinctive figure on the Luang Prabang skyline. The hill is a popular as a place to watch the sunset. From the summit you enjoy spectacular 360 degree sunset views across the city and its many temples, and over the surrounding landscape to the mountains in the distance. Stroll around the night market and have some free time for dinner before being dropped off at your hotel.

(Breakfast, Lunch)

Day 4 Luang Prabang – Vang Vieng

Pick up from your hotel and visit Wat Wisunarat to see the oldest Buddhist temple in Luang Prabang, and then the UXO Center for those who want to learn more about war history.  We drive to the train station. Enjoy the approximately one-hour journey to Vang Vieng on Laos’ new high-speed train. (C85 11:41 – 12:49),

After taking you from Vang Vieng Station to your hotel, you will take a break for lunch. We head off to the Nam Song River to enjoy a relaxing Tubing or kayaking trip in the diverse nature and landscapes of Vang Vieng.

(Breakfast, Lunch)

Day 5 Vang Vieng tour Pha Ngern viewpoint, Tham Phu Kham Cave and Blue Lagoon

8:30 am after the breakfast you will be picked up by the tour guide to visit Nam Xay Viewpoint, you will start the climb to the viewpoint – 250m (approx. 30mins). Once you reach the top you will find the most spectacular views, with picturesque landscape over the paddy fields that “pop” out in clear view from their flat surroundings.

After the trek back down the mountain, you will continue to visit Tham Phu Kham Cave and Blue Lagoon. Tham Phu Kham Cave and Blue Lagoon is an improvised eco-water park in a scenic village close to Vang Vieng. Observe sharp stalactites and stalagmites as you descend down steep walls to reach the largest hall of the cave, which holds the bronze statue of a reclining Buddha, with several other smaller Buddha images revered by locals. The green-blue waters of the lagoon outside the cave provide a beautiful relaxation spot, as well as the opportunity to re-live your younger years as you jump off a tree into the water. During your tour, you can also try your hand at abseiling one of the water slides. You will be transferred back to the city and have time for lunch.

(Breakfast, Lunch)

Day 6 Vang Vieng – Vientiane, Vientiane Tour

Free time in the morning in Vang Vieng, we head to the railway station at noon for an hour train ride to Vientiane. Transfer from Vientiane station to the hotel and check-in at the hotel. Afterwards, visit the main destinations of the city: Wat Sisaket, the oldest temple with thousands of miniature Buddha statues, and Wat Phra Keo, the former royal temple where the famous Emerald Buddha statue was located. On the way to the famous sacred structure, the That Luang Stupa, a national treasure of Laos, we will also have the opportunity to photograph the imposing Patuxai Monument, known as the Arc de Triomphe of Vientiane.  We will guide you through Vientiane night market. After you enjoy your free time in the evening, we will drop you off at your hotel.

(Breakfast)

Day 7 Vientiane Departure

Enjoy free time in Vientiane until flight time. we will transfer you to Luang Prabang airport.

(Breakfast)

Reference Price

Accommodation prices are subject to change. See spreadsheet for all hotel options.

Itinerary

Day 7 Phonsavan – Luang Prabang

Phu Khoun

We head out from Phonsavan to Luang Prabang 260km. On the way, we stop at the town of Nong Tang and see a site of more than 200 years old Buddha images in Tham Pha Caves. The caves were also hospitals and shelters during the Indochina wars. We will stop and see varied Hmong and other hill tribe minority villages along the road. They are nice, friendly and welcome you to visit. Continue driving uphill, enjoying the mountain scenery, forest, and landscape. Around noon, we stop at Muang Phu Khoun, a village in the heart of the Hmong people. We have a lunch break and enjoy the magnificent mountain scenery.

Upon arrive in Luang Prabang before evening, climbing up Phousi Hill. Rising 150m in the centre of town, Mount Phousi cuts a distinctive figure on the Luang Prabang skyline. The hill is a popular as a place to watch the sunset. From the summit you enjoy spectacular 360 degree views across the city and its many temples, and over the surrounding landscape to the mountains in the distance. 

(Breakfast, Lunch)

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Day 8 Luang Prabang City, Pak Ou Caves, Mekong River Cruise

mekong cruise

We will pick you up again at 8:30 and take you to  a small park on the peninsula tip. You will have a brief introduction to Luang Prabang, standing where the Nam Khan River meets the Mekong River. From there, walk to the famous Wat Xieng Thong temple. For centuries, the temple was considered the ceremonial gateway to the city and was the arrival and departure point for foreign dignitaries. We will walk up the stairs to the main gate and enter the temple like ancient dignitaries.

Next, we will go temple hopping in the neighborhood. At Wat Sene, where there is a school for novice monks, you may meet again with novice monks you met on the morning alms. Finally, we will visit the Royal Palace museum. It houses a lot of interesting historical items. Every item tells a story…so you will learn quite a lot from your guide about Lao history and about Laos’ royal.

Transfer to Manifa Elephant Camp for lunch. You will be offered a delicious buffet lunch at the restaurant overlooking the Mekong river and meet elephants roaming free. In the afternoon we will visit Pak Ou Caves by boat. We will see 4000 Buddha icons in the caves overlooking the Mekong River. After a stop at a village where Laotian rice wine is made, enjoy a two-hour sunset cruise on the Mekong River and return to Luang Prabang.

 

(Breakfast, Lunch)

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Day 10 Luang Prabang Departure

Enjoy free time in Luang Prabang until flight time. we will transfer you to Luang Prabang airport.

(Breakfast)

Reference Price

Accommodation prices are subject to change. See spreadsheet for all hotel options.

Itinerary

Day 1 Vientiane Arrival

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You will be warmly welcomed at Wattay Airport – Laos’ international airport. You will also be escorted to your hotel in downtown Vientiane.

Day 2 Vientiane tour

Vientiane is a charming capital city adorned with temples and faded French colonial architecture. After a short break, you will get to know the capital on a city tour and visit major attractions such as Wat Sisaket, the oldest temple with thousands of miniature Buddha statues, and Wat Phra Keo, the former royal temple where the famous Emerald Buddha statue was located. On the way to the famous sacred structure, the That Luang Stupa, a national treasure of Laos, we will also have the opportunity to photograph the imposing Patuxai Monument, known as the Arc de Triomphe of Vientiane. After lunch at a restaurant in town, visit Buddha Park in the suburbs. Buddha Park, also known as Xieng Khuan, this unusual park is filled with over 200 Buddhist and Hindu statues. The quiet and tranquil setting along the Mekong River is a contrast to the slightly eccentric sculptures which were built in 1958 by a Laos shaman. The concrete sculptures are unique and intriguing, sitting majestically in the peaceful park.

(Breakfast, Lunch)

Day 3 Transfer to Vang Vieng, Kayak, Zipline, Waterfall

Pick you up from your hotel and drive to the train station. Enjoy the approximately one-hour journey to Vang Vieng on Laos’ new high-speed train. Check in your hotel in Vang Vieng, we head off to the Nam Song River to enjoy a relaxing kayaking trip in the diverse nature and landscapes of Vang Vieng. Paddle your kayak in its cool, clear waters as you admire the peaceful countryside and stunning karst rock formations. At noon, you’ll take a quick break to enjoy a tasty picnic lunch while getting an unbeatable view of your surroundings. Go ziplining at Phar None Cliff and feel the adrenaline rush take over your body as you go flying over several rivers and lush forests. Head back to Nam Song River for a bit more kayaking, Time and weather permitting, continue to Kaeng Nui, a 30-meter high waterfall. Get off the tuk-tuk and walk 1km to reach the waterfall. Beat the heat with a dip in the clear water and snap photos of this impressive feat of nature before being dropped off at your hotel.

(Breakfast, Lunch)

Day 4 Vang Vieng tour Pha Ngern viewpoint, Tham Phu Kham Cave and Blue Lagoon

8:30 am after the breakfast you will be picked up by the tour guide to visit Nam Xay Viewpoint, you will start the climb to the viewpoint – 250m (approx. 30mins). Once you reach the top you will find the most spectacular views, with picturesque landscape over the paddy fields that “pop” out in clear view from their flat surroundings.

After the trek back down the mountain, you will continue to visit Tham Phu Kham Cave and Blue Lagoon. Tham Phu Kham Cave and Blue Lagoon is an improvised eco-water park in a scenic village close to Vang Vieng. Observe sharp stalactites and stalagmites as you descend down steep walls to reach the largest hall of the cave, which holds the bronze statue of a reclining Buddha, with several other smaller Buddha images revered by locals. The green-blue waters of the lagoon outside the cave provide a beautiful relaxation spot, as well as the opportunity to re-live your younger years as you jump off a tree into the water. During your tour, you can also try your hand at abseiling one of the water slides. You will be transferred back to the city and have time for lunch.

Day 5 Vang Vieng – Luang Prabang – Manifa Elephant Camp – Mekong River Cruise (Pak Ou Caves)

After breakfast, drive to the railway station and take the train to Luang Prabang. Transfer to a minivan in Luang Prabang and drive to Manifa Elephant Camp.

You will be offered a delicious buffet lunch at the restaurant overlooking the Mekong river and meet elephants roaming free. In the afternoon we will visit Pak Ou Caves by boat. We will see 4000 Buddha icons in the caves overlooking the Mekong River. Enjoy a two-hour sunset cruise on the Mekong River and return to Luang Prabang.

(Breakfast, Lunch)

Day 6 Luang Prabang City

The tour begins early in the morning (5:15 am in March to October and 05:45 in November to February. There is also an option without Alms giving). We pick you up from your hotel and you have a fantastic opportunity together with the locals to witness the captivating centuries old daily tradition of the alms giving ceremony. Following that, we visit local morning market.

You return to your hotel for breakfast around 7;00. We will pick you up again at 8:30 and take you to  a small park on the peninsula tip. You will have a brief introduction to Luang Prabang, standing where the Nam Khan River meets the Mekong River. From there, walk to the famous Wat Xieng Thong temple. For centuries, the temple was considered the ceremonial gateway to the city and was the arrival and departure point for foreign dignitaries. We will walk up the stairs to the main gate and enter the temple like ancient dignitaries.

Next, we will go temple hopping in the neighborhood. At Wat Sene, where there is a school for novice monks, you may meet again with novice monks you met on the morning alms. We will drive to Heuan Chan Heritage. There we will see a well preserved traditional Lao house and take a short break in their gardens. Finally, we will visit the Royal Palace.

For lunch, visit the Luang Prabang Bio-Bamboo restaurant in the bamboo grove along the Nam Khan river to enjoy delicious Laotian cuisine served in bamboo bowls.

In the afternoon, we visit Wat Wisunarat to see the oldest Buddhist temple in Luang Prabang, and then the UXO Center for those who want to learn more about war history.  We head out to the Laos Traditional handicraft village Ban Xang Khong well knowned as paper village. You can discover all creations made of paper.

Finish your day by climbing up Phousi Mountain. Rising 150m in the centre of town, Mount Phousi cuts a distinctive figure on the Luang Prabang skyline. The hill is a popular as a place to watch the sunset. From the summit you enjoy spectacular 360 degree views across the city and its many temples, and over the surrounding landscape to the mountains in the distance.

(Breakfast, Lunch)

Day 7 Luang Prabang, Day hike to Kuang Si Waterfalls

Pick up from your hotel at 8:30, you will be transfered to Ban Nong Heo, we will have some time to discover the charming Khmu village, with its traditional houses, its water buffalo and free-range ducks walking around, and even the farmers and master blacksmiths dealing with their daily tasks. Then, we will have the chance to join in an easy hike in the countryside, pass over hills, and through forests and plantations, with nice viewpoints to stop at along the way. You can refresh yourself with some fresh sugar cane that can be picked directly from the field to taste the juice. After a 2-hour walk in the beautiful natural environment, we will arrive at Ban Thapene, a village which sits at the foot of the stunning Kuang Si Waterfalls.

Enjoy lunch at the nearby private waterfall Carpe Diem Restaurant. We will spend time to explore the stunning Kuang Si Waterfall. On the way back, we will visit the village of the Hmong people. Return to your hotel at around 5 pm.

(Breakfast, Lunch)

Day 8 Luang Prabang Departure

Enjoy free time in Luang Prabang until flight time. we will transfer you to Luang Prabang airport.

(Breakfast)

Reference Price

Accommodation prices are subject to change. See spreadsheet for all hotel options.

Day 1 Luang Prabang arrival
Day 2 Luang Prabang city tour
Day 3 Luang Prabang - Kuang Si Waterfalls
Day 4 Luang Prabang to Nong Khiaw
Day 5 Nong Khiaw Nam Ou River cruise to Muang Ngoy
Day 6 Nong Khiaw - Mekong River Cruise to Pak Ou Caves
Day 7 Luang Prabang rice farming experience
Day 8 Luang Prabang - Pakse flight (QV305 8:05-9:05), Bolaven Plateau
Day 9 Wat Phou
Day 10 4000 Islands
Day 11 Flight to Vientiane (QV306 9:50-10:50) Vientiane Tour Half day
Day 12 Vientiane Departure

Due to domestic flight availability, tours start only on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. 
Other days of the week require itinerary changes.

Itinerary

Price

Price per person for private tour including itinerary above and list below, excluding hotel and domestic flight (calculated in Agu 2023)

Accommodation

The above rates do not include hotels. You can refer to our contracted hotels (breakfast included) in the spreadsheet below. Please specify the hotel from the spreadsheet or request the grade you would like and we will prepare a combined tour and hotel quote.

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1G76Ha5LzBRvlF-kCVXrotLPUhR3RreeE8GDtwKEWJt8/edit?usp=sharing

Domestic Flight

Day 8 QV513 Luang Prabang – Pakse $72 per person

Day 11 QV306 Pakse – Vientiane $80 per person

Day 1 Vientiane arrival Vientiane Half day tour
Day 2 Vientiane - Pakse flight (QV305 8:05-9:05 daily), Wat Phou
Day 3 Champasak - 4000 islands
Day 4 4000 islands
Day 5 Bolaven Plateau / Pakse
Day 6 Pakse - Vieniane flight (QV306 9:50-10:50), Vieniane Buddha Park - Vang Vieng
Day 7 Vang Vieng Day Trip (Optional balloon ride)
Day 8 Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang by train (C86 8:25-9:25), trabsfer to Nong Khiaw
Day 9 Nong Khiaw - Muang Ngoy Nam ou river cruise
Day 10 Nong Khiaw to Luang Prabang, Mekong river cruise to Pak Ou Caves
Day 11 Luang Prabang city tour
Day 12 Luang Prabang Kuang Si Waterfalls
Day 13 Luang Prabang Free day
Day 14 Luang Prabang departure

Itinerary

• Fullf-day Vientiane tour Visit top attractions: Wat Sisake, Wat Phra Ke, Patuxay Monument, That Luang, COPE Visitor Centre, Lao Textile Museum, Buddha Park
• Free hotel pickup and drop-off included
• See the city with an expert local guide
• Private air-conditioned minivan

• Half-day Vientiane tour Visit top attractions like Wat Sisake, Wat Phra Ke, Presidential Palace, That Luang and COPE Visitor Center
• Free hotel pickup and drop-off included
• See the city with an expert local guide
• Private air-conditioned minivan