Laos Tour Package

Gallery 01

 

Wat Xiengthong	Buddha Caves
Kuang Si Waterfall

 

Itinerary 01

 

Day 1: Arrival in Luang Prabang (No meal)

Laos' Icons
Upon arrival at Luang Prabang airport, our local representative will meet and welcome you. After check-in at your hotel, visit Royal Palace Museum, which hosts a range of interesting artifacts, and the magnificent Wat Xiengthong with its roofs sweeping low to the ground, which represents classical Laotian architecture. If time permits, take a short walk around the small streets of city center, watching the locals go about their life. In the late afternoon, climb to the top of Mount Phousi for an exploration of the sacred, gilded stupa as well as enjoy a panoramic sunset view of the city and the Mekong River. Immerse in the bustling atmosphere of the Night Market, where you can find a lovely selection of handmade textiles made by local and hilltribe people.

 

Day 2: Luang Prabang (Breakfast)

Laos' Culture 
After breakfast, head to Ban Xang Hai, famous for the traditional distilled rice whiskey. From there, we enjoy the 30-minute elephant ride exploring the Mekong river at the nearby elephant camp. Continue to Ban Pak Ou and take a boat across Mekong River to visit the mysterious Pak Ou Caves, two linked caves crammed with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes left by pilgrims. Pay a visit to Ban Xangkhong, the Thai Lue village, noted for its arts and crafts, and then proceed to Ban Xienglek, a nearby village specializing in making the traditional Saa paper.

 

Day 3: Luang Prabang (Breakfast)

Luang Prabang's Scenic Nature
Join the most sacred tradition of Laos, the daily morning alm-giving, which dates to the 14^th century. More than 200 Buddhist monks depart from various temples to gather their daily meal from the faithful residents sitting quietly on the streets. Following that, experience local life by visiting the temporary morning market near the former Royal Palace. The locals gather to barter their day’s catch from rice and vegetable to fish and chicken. After breakfast, transfer to the beautiful Kuang Si waterfalls, which is the biggest in the Luang Prabang area with three tiers leading to a 50-metre drop into spectacular azure pools before flowing downstream. The pools also make great swimming holes and are very popular with both tourists and locals. If time permits, walk to the nearby village of Ban Thapene, and explore the hidden waterfalls which are rarely visited by other tourists, and make a short visit to the Bear Rescue Center, which houses a couple of dozen animals rescued from the hands of poachers and traffickers. Find out about Laos butterflies, host plants and preservation at the Kuang Si Falls Butterfly Park (closed from 1 Jan, 15 Apr – 30 Jun and 1 – 14 Sep). Drop by Ock Pop Tock Living Craft Center, set serenely close to the Mekong, to admire top-quality fabrics produced by weavers, spinners and batik makers, and hopefully to catch the sunset as this is also one of the best spots to admire the sunset in Luang Prabang.

 

Day 4: Departure from Luang Prabang (Breakfast)

Free and Easy
Free till departure transfer to Luang Prabang airport for homebound flight.

 

Gallery 02

 

Wat Xiengthong	Buddha Caves
Kuang Si Waterfall	Patuxai Monument

 

Itinerary 02

 

Day 1: Arrival in Luang Prabang (No meal)

Laos' Icons
Upon arrival at Luang Prabang airport, our local representative will meet and welcome you. After check-in at your hotel, visit Royal Palace Museum, a royal palace that was the residence of the Laos royal family and now a museum that hosts a range of interesting artifacts. Continue to the magnificent Wat Xiengthong, with its roofs sweeping low to the ground representing classical Laotian architecture. If time permits, take a short walk around the small streets of city center, watching the locals’ lifestyle. In the late afternoon, climb to the top of the sacred Mount Phousi for an exploration of the gilded stupa as well as enjoy a panoramic sunset view of the city and the Mekong River. Immerse in the bustling atmosphere of the Night Market, where you can find a lovely selection of handmade textiles made by local and hilltribe people.

 

Day 2: Luang Prabang (Breakfast)

Laos' Culture 
After breakfast, head to Ban Xang Hai, famous for lao-lao, the traditional distilled rice whiskey. From there, we enjoy the 30-minute elephant ride exploring the Mekong river at the nearby elephant camp. Continue to Ban Pak Ou and take a boat across Mekong river to visit the mysterious Pak Ou Caves, two linked caves set high above the river and crammed with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes left by pilgrims. Pay a visit to Ban Xangkhong, the Thai Lue village, noted for its arts and crafts, then proceed to Ban Xienglek, a nearby village specializing in making the traditional Saa paper.

 

Day 3: Luang Prabang - Vientiane (Breakfast)

Luang Prabang's Scenic Nature
Join the most sacred tradition of Laos, the daily morning alm-giving, which dates to the 14^th century. More than 200 Buddhist monks depart from various temples to gather their daily meal from the faithful residents sitting quietly on the streets. Following that, experience local life by visiting the temporary morning market near the former Royal Palace. The locals gather to barter their day’s catch from rice and vegetable to fish and chicken. After breakfast, transfer to the beautiful Kuang Si waterfalls, the biggest in the Luang Prabang area with three tiers leading to a 50-metre drop into spectacular azure pools before flowing downstream. The pools also make great swimming holes and are very popular with both tourists and locals. If time permits, walk to the nearby village of Ban Thapene, and explore the hidden waterfalls which are rarely visited by other tourists, and make a short visit to the Bear Rescue Center, which houses a couple of dozen animals rescued from the hands of poachers and traffickers. Find out about Laos butterflies, host plants and preservation at the Kuang Si Falls Butterfly Park (closed from 1 Jan, 15 Apr – 30 Jun and 1 – 14 Sep). Take a domestic flight to Vientiane and check-in to your hotel.

 

Day 4: Vientiane (Breakfast)

Vientiane's Highlights
Start the day at Wat Si Muang, famous for its supernatural power, before proceeding to Buddha Park, which hosts an enchanting collection of Buddhist and Hindu sculptures on the Mekong Riverside meadow, close to the Friendship Bridge. There are approximately 200 religious images dating back over 500 years, which were created by a mysterious monk spreading his philosophy on life and revealing his ideas about the universe. In the afternoon, visit the major sights of the capital; including the oldest Wat Sisaket, the temple with thousands of miniature Buddha statues, and the former royal temple of Wat Prakeo, which previously housed the famous Emerald Buddha image. En route to Lao’s national icon, the famous and sacred structure of That Luang Stupa, take some photographs of the imposing Patuxai Monument, which is well known as Vientiane’s own Arc de Triumph. End the day with a spectacular sunset view over the Mekong River.

 

Day 5: Departure from Vientiane (Breakfast)

Free and Easy
Free till departure transfer to Vientiane airport for homebound flight.

 

Gallery 03

 

Wat Xiengthong	Buddha Caves
Kuang Si Waterfall	Rice Field
Kuang Si Waterfall

 

Itinerary 03

 

Day 1: Arrival in Luang Prabang (Dinner)

Luang Prabang's Traditional Dance and Folk Song Experience
Upon arrival at Luang Prabang airport, our local representative will meet and welcome you. After check-in at your hotel, you can spend some time at your own leisure, such as taking a stroll and explore the city center, watching the locals go about their life. Enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant with traditional dance and folk songs, the best way to experience Lao culture.

 

Day 2: Luang Prabang (Breakfast, Lunch)

Luang Prabang's Graden and City Experience
After breakfast, take the Pha Tad Ke boat from Ban Wat That (departure time at 9:00; to be at the pier at 8:45). Enjoy a 15-minute leisurely boat trip down the Mekong River. Upon arrival at Pha Tad Ke Botanical Garden reception, be introduced to the gardens. After a walk through the Ginger Garden and the Ethno-botanic Garden, which is the centerpiece of the garden, follow the path through the Limestone Walk and take in the amazing mountainous Mekong landscape. Learn how to make a bamboo stick animal at the site of the former royal family’s hunting lodge before walking through the Arboretum, Palm Garden and Bamboo Garden to the viewpoint that overlooks the rice fields. Stop by the Mist House to learn more about the importance of biodiversity conservation before ending the tour with an optional orchid talk at Pha Tad Ke Nursery. Savor a delicious Lao set lunch at the Pha Tad Ke café before taking the boat back to Luang Prabang. In the afternoon, admire the magnificent Wat Xiengthong with its roofs sweeping low to the ground, which represents classical Laotian architecture. Continue to visit Royal Palace Museum, which hosts a range of interesting artifacts. If time permits, take a short walk around the small streets of city center, watching the locals go about their life. In the late afternoon, climb to the top of Mount Phousi for an exploration of the sacred, gilded stupa as well as enjoy a panoramic sunset view of the city and the Mekong River. Immerse in the bustling atmosphere of the Night Market, where you can find a lovely selection of handmade textiles made by local and hilltribe people.

 

Day 3: Luang Prabang (Breakfast, Lunch)

Luang Prabang's Cultural and Scenic Experience
Start the day at the Traditional Arts & Ethnology Center (TAEC) to understand more about the Lao diverse ethnic culture through a stroll around and a seminar titled “Ethnic Diversity and Cultural Change in Laos”. The fascinating 60-minute presentation and question-and-answer session by one of the two TAEC Founder/Directors, either Thongkhoun Soutthivilay, a Luang Prabang-native who had worked at the Luang Prabang National Museum for 10 years, or Tara Gujadhur, an American who has worked in Luang Prabang for over 10 years, with a background in anthropology and sustainable tourism development, provides a background on Laos' ethnic communities, their history and their cultural practices, including livelihoods and crafts. Take the opportunity to learn about lifestyles in ethnic villages and see unique artifacts from TAEC's collection that are not accessible to the general public. Relish an ethnic Khmu lunch at TAEC Café. In the afternoon, marvel at the beautiful Kuang Si waterfalls, the biggest in the Luang Prabang area with three tiers leading to a 50-metre drop into spectacular azure pools. The pools also make great swimming holes and are very popular with both tourists and locals. Make a short visit to the Bear Rescue Center, which houses a couple of dozen animals rescued from the hands of poachers and traffickers. Drop by Ock Pop Tock Living Craft Center to admire top-quality fabrics produced by weavers, spinners and batik makers, and hopefully catch the sunset as this is also one of the best spots to admire the sunset in Luang Prabang.

 

Day 4: Luang Prabang - Nam Ou (Breakfast, Lunch)

Luang Prabang's Spiritual Experience and Nam Ou's Relaxing Experience
Join the most sacred tradition of Laos, the daily morning alm-giving, which dates to the 14^th century. More than 200 Buddhist monks depart from various temples to gather their daily meal from the faithful residents sitting quietly on the streets. Following that, experience local life by visiting the temporary morning market near the former Royal Palace. The locals gather to barter their day’s catch from rice and vegetable to fish and chicken. After breakfast, take a drive to Ban Xang Hai, a village famous for lao-lao, the traditional distilled rice whiskey.From there, we enjoy the 30-minute elephant ride exploring the Mekong river at the nearby elephant camp. Continue to Ban Pak Ou and take a boat across the Mekong river to visit the mysterious Pak Ou Caves, two linked caves set high above the river and crammed with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes left by pilgrims. After visiting the caves, take the cruise to the beautiful Nam Ou Riverside Resort, which nests along the lazy Nam Ou River. Spend the rest of the day at your own leisure where you can explore the nearby villages or relax by the resort’s pool.

 

Day 5: Nam Ou - Ban Lae (Breakfast, Lunch)

Ban Lae's Homestay Experience
Head to Ban Lae, a village which is located 25km from town and 10km from the resort. Upon arrival, the host family will meet and welcome you. Have a stroll around the village to see the life of the locals; visit the local school, which is livelier during the weekdays, or drop by the local market. Enjoy lunch at the house of the host family. In the afternoon, you can choose to either relax or enjoy agricultural activities such as rice planting and harvesting in surrounding rice fields (depending on the season); traditional fishing techniques (you can sample your catch for dinner); walk around the farm and rice field; or explore the river with the local boat. You may wish to have a dip in the inviting Nam Xeuang river, or join and help the host with preparing the dinner which you can learn more about Lao cuisine. Before dinner, join a private Baci ceremony, held by the elders of the village. The Baci ceremony is a traditional ritual of the Lao people which expresses the spirituality of the country and is a highly memorable experience and a deep insight into Lao culture. During dinner, folk tales will be told by the host family and translated by your guide.

 

Day 6: Ban Lae - Departure from Luang Prabang (Breakfast)

Ban Lae's Cultural Experience
Rise early to admire the sunrise over the Nam Xeuang river and the nearby mountains. Pay a visit to the local temple and join the alm-giving to appreciate the difference from the one experienced in Luang Prabang. After breakfast, learn traditional fishing techniques by the stunning Nam Xeuang river, and experience bamboo weaving, silk weaving, or fishing net weaving. Arrive at the village at 11:00 to return to Luang Prabang. Take the departure transfer to Luang Prabang airport for homebound flight.

 

Gallery 04

 

Wat Xiengthong	Buddha Caves
Kuang Si Waterfall	Rice Field
Bamboo Garden

 

Itinerary 04

 

Day 1: Arrival in Luang Prabang (Dinner)

Laos' Iconic Tour
Upon arrival at Luang Prabang airport, our local representative will meet and welcome you. After check-in at your hotel, admire the magnificent Wat Xiengthong with its roofs sweeping low to the ground, which represents classical Laotian architecture. If time permits, take a short walk around the small streets of city center, watching the locals go about their life. Continue to visit Royal Palace Museum, which hosts a range of interesting artifacts. In the late afternoon, climb to the top of Mount Phousi for an exploration of the sacred, gilded stupa as well as enjoy a panoramic sunset view of the city and the Mekong River. Enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant with traditional dance and folk songs, the best way to experience Lao culture. Immerse in the bustling atmosphere of the Night Market, where you can find a lovely selection of handmade textiles made by local and hilltribe people.

 

Day 2: Luang Prabang (Breakfast, Lunch)

Luang Prabang's Cycling and Boat Tour
Begin your 2-hour cycling ride to Ban Xang Hai village which has for centuries made the clay jars which are used to ferment Lao wine. Nowadays, the tradition continues, though the village now specializes in producing a wide range of ‘Lao-Lao’, the Lao whiskey, and ‘Lau-Hai’, the Lao wine.After the visit, continue the cycling tour on dirt road for about 45 minutes to Ban Pak Ou where a stop will be made at a local restaurant for lunch. After lunch, take a boat across Mekong river to visit the mysterious Pak Ou Caves, two linked caves set high above the river and crammed with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes left by pilgrims. Head down Mekong River in a boat towards Luang Prabang and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way. If time permits, drop by Ban Xang Khong village to view mulberry paper-making.

 

Day 3: Luang Prabang (Breakfast, Lunch)

Luang Prabang's Countryside Tour
Head to a community-based living rice farm in the idyllic countryside outside Luang Prabang. Surrounded by mountains and rice paddies, experience rural life as a Laotian farmer would, trying your hand at various farm activities or observing them from a traditional Lao rice house balcony, set amidst rice terraces and an organic vegetable farm. View local bamboo weavers, blacksmiths and sugar cane processors practice their crafts at nearby workshops. Take a tour of the organic garden to learn how natural herbs are used in traditional medicine before enjoying lunch at the terrace overlooking the rice field. Marvel at the beautiful Kuang Si waterfalls, the biggest in the Luang Prabang area with three tiers leading to a 50-metre drop into spectacular azure pools. The pools also make great swimming holes and are very popular with both tourists and locals. Make a short visit to the Bear Rescue Center, which houses a couple of dozen animals rescued from the hands of poachers and traffickers. Drop by Ock Pop Tock Living Craft Center to admire top-quality fabrics produced by weavers, spinners and batik makers, and hopefully catch the sunset as this is also one of the best spots to admire the sunset in Luang Prabang.

 

Day 4: Luang Prabang - Ban Xienglom (Breakfast, Lunch)

Luang Prabang's Garden Tour
After breakfast, take the Pha Tad Ke boat from Ban Wat That (departure time at 9:00; to be at the pier at 8:45). Enjoy a 15-minute leisurely boat trip down the Mekong River. Upon arrival at Pha Tad Ke Botanical Garden reception, be introduced to the gardens. After a walk through the Ginger Garden and the Ethno-botanic Garden, which is the centerpiece of the garden, follow the path through the Limestone Walk and take in the amazing mountainous Mekong landscape. Learn how to make a bamboo stick animal at the site of the former royal family’s hunting lodge before walking through the Arboretum, Palm Garden and Bamboo Garden to the viewpoint that overlooks the rice fields. Stop by the Mist House to learn more about the importance of biodiversity conservation before ending the tour with an optional orchid talk at Pha Tad Ke Nursery. Savor a delicious Lao set lunch at the Pha Tad Ke café and take the boat back to Luang Prabang. Visit UXO Visitor Center (closed on Saturdays and Sundays), where documentation about the secret war in Laos can be reviewed. Transfer to Ban Xienglom, home to the lovely Lao Spirit Resort, the creation of an exceptional experience between Laotian culture and untouched jungle. Spend the rest of the day at your own leisure.

 

Day 5: Ban Xienglom (Breakfast, Lunch)

Ban Xienglom's Mountain Tour
After breakfast, your knowledgeable and experienced local guide will bring you straight to the elephant camp for the first part of today’s activities. The elephant camp is located in the middle of a wonderful forested mountainous area at the banks of the scenic Nam Khan River. Enjoy a new perspective from riding on the top of an elephant. Stunning landscapes and the quietness of nature make for a relaxing ride on the back of a local Asian elephant. Transfer by small boat across the river to begin trekking an easy hike throughthe beautiful jungle with surrounding mountains in the river valley. Arrive at a Khmu hill tribe village where you will explore life nestled in the mountains with the local guide. Most of the people at the village are farmers and fishermen and subsist on their traditional way of agriculture. Refresh with a break before a scenic and easy walk off the mountain to the Tad Sae Waterfall where you can take a cool swim. Conditions range from impressive strong currents during the height of the rainy season to slow-flowing and inviting crystal-clear water that is great for swimming. (Note: During the dry season of Feb - Jul, the Tad Sae Waterfall can be low-flowing or even dry. The itinerary remains the same with the exception that instead of the waterfall, trekking is extended to visit a riverside village and a longer boat ride is enjoyed on the Nam Khan River through the jungle.) A Lao-style lunch will be served either at the magnificent waterfall or at a local village. Return by boat and vehicle to the resort.

 

Day 6: Ban Xienglom - Departure from Luang Prabang (Breakfast)

Free and Easy
Return to Luang Prabang. Free till departure transfer to Luang Prabang airport for homebound flight.

 

Gallery 05

 

Wat Xiengthong	Rice Field
Kuang Si Waterfall	Laos Children

 

Itinerary 05

 

Day 1: Arrival in Luang Prabang (Dinner)

Laos' Spiritual Experience
Upon arrival at Luang Prabang airport, our local representative will meet and welcome you. After check-in at your hotel, enjoy a stroll around the city at your own leisure. In the late afternoon, join a local family’s private Baci ceremony. The Baci ceremony is a traditional ritual of the Lao people which expresses the spirituality of the country and is a highly memorable experience and a deep insight into Lao culture for the participants. Experience local life and culture first-hand by having dinner with the host family.

 

Day 2: Luang Prabang (Breakfast, Lunch)

Laos' Cultural Experience
Join the most sacred tradition of Laos, the daily morning alm-giving, which dates to the 14^th century. More than 200 Buddhist monks depart from various temples to gather their daily meal from the faithful residents sitting quietly on the streets. Following that, experience local life by visiting the temporary morning market near the former Royal Palace. The locals gather to barter their day’s catch from rice and vegetable to fish and chicken. After breakfast, transfer to town to take the Pha Tad Ke boat from Ban Wat That (departure time at 9:00; to be at the pier at 8:45). Enjoy a 15-minute leisurely boat trip down the Mekong River. Upon arrival at Pha Tad Ke Botanical Garden reception, be introduced to the gardens. After a walk through the Ginger Garden and the Ethno-botanic Garden, which is the centerpiece of the garden, follow the path through the Limestone Walk and take in the amazing mountainous Mekong landscape. Learn how to make a bamboo stick animal at the site of the former royal family’s hunting lodge before walking through the Arboretum, Palm Garden and Bamboo Garden to the viewpoint that overlooks the rice fields. Stop by the Mist House to learn more about the importance of biodiversity conservation before ending the tour with an optional orchid talk at Pha Tad Ke Nursery. Savor a delicious Lao set lunch at the Pha Tad Ke café before taking the boat back to Luang Prabang. Upon arrival at the city, begin the city tour at the magnificent Wat Xiengthong, with its roofs sweeping low to the ground representing classical Laotian architecture. Pay a visit to the Royal Palace Museum, a royal palace that was the residence of the Laos royal family and now a museum that hosts a range of interesting artifacts. If time permits, take a short walk around the small streets of city center, watching the locals’ lifestyle. Admire the sunset at the peaceful Wat Prabath before immersing in the bustling atmosphere of the Night Market, where you can find a lovely selection of handmade textiles made by local and hilltribe people.

 

Day 3: Luang Prabang (Breakfast, Lunch)

Luang Prabang's Cycling & Trekking Experience
Begin your 6-hour cycling tour with a ride to the riverbank to take a ferry across the Mekong River to Ban Xeng Mene. En route to the village of Ban Nakham, popular for tasty local treats such as sugar cane and Kaolam (sticky rice and beans in bamboo), cycle off-road to explore the area with several photo opportunity stops. Enjoy your ride along green rice fields stopping in different villages to see how the local tribes live their daily lives. Pass by the villages of Khmu and Lao Loum before arrival at the beautiful waterfall, Tad Hoi Khua, also known as “Hundred Families Waterfall”, where a picnic lunch will be relished by the falls. In the afternoon, embark on a 2.5-hour trek to the top of the waterfall with a local guide. Admire the mountain view from the top and discover the centenarian trees and natural pool filled with the waterfall’s spring water. Learn about the jungle vegetation, tales of Tad Hoi Khua and local lifestyle. Continue by the Governor’s tree plantation project and enjoy the vegetables picked up along the way before walking back down to the coffee shop to take a short rest before returning to Luang Prabang and cycle back to the hotel. 

 

Day 4: Luang Prabang (Breakfast, Lunch)

Luang Prabang's Nature Experience
Partake in a cooking class at a local restaurant by starting with a visit to the food market where there will be an introduction of what the ingredients are and what they are used for, before returning to Mai Too Restaurant to cook and have lunch. In the afternoon, marvel at the beautiful Kuang Si waterfalls, the biggest in the Luang Prabang area with three tiers leading to a 50-metre drop into spectacular azure pools. The pools also make great swimming holes and are very popular with both tourists and locals. Make a short visit to the Bear Rescue Center, which houses a couple of dozen animals rescued from the hands of poachers and traffickers. Drop by Ock Pop Tock Living Craft Center to admire top-quality fabrics produced by weavers, spinners and batik makers, and hopefully catch the sunset as this is also one of the best spots to admire the sunset in Luang Prabang.

 

Day 5: Luang Prabang - Nam Ou (Breakfast, Lunch)

Nam Ou's Relaxing Experience
After breakfast, take a leisurely cruise upstream on the Mekong River, which also gives us a breathtaking view of the tranquil countryside, and head to Ban Xang Hai, a village famous for lao-lao, the traditional distilled rice whiskey. Continue to the mysteriousPak Ou Caves, two linked caves set high above the river and crammed with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes left by pilgrims. After visiting the caves, take the cruise to the beautiful Nam Ou Riverside Resort, which nests along the lazy Nam Ou River. Spend the rest of the day at your own leisure where you can explore the nearby villages or relax by the resort’s pool.

 

Day 6: Nam Ou - Departure from Luang Prabang (Breakfast)

Free and Easy
Return to Luang Prabang. Free till departure transfer to Luang Prabang airport for homebound flight.

 

Gallery 06

 

Coffee Beans	Wat Phou
Long Tail Boat	Mekong Fishing

 

Itinerary 06

 

Day 1: Arrival in Pakse - Bolaven Plateau (No meal)

Introduction to Bolaven Plateau
Upon arrival at Pakse airport, head toBolaven Plateau which is located high above the Mekong Valley and known for its cooler temperature. Bolaven Plateau is one of the most beautiful places in Southern Laos and is named in reference to the Laven ethnic group that has historically dominated the region. Stop by a tea plantation, followed by a photo opportunity at Tad Fan Waterfall, a picturesque twin chute waterfall, before paying a visit to a coffee plantation.

 

Day 2: Bolaven Plateau (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Coffee Trail Experience at Bolaven Plateau
Have a cup of coffee with the Jeep tour specialist at Chai Coffee, before a 30-minute drive on the Jeep to Tad Moun Waterfalls, where you can enjoy the refreshingly cool water. After a visit to the nearby vegetable farm, embark on a 1-hour Jeep drive to Mr. Khamsone’s Coffee Farm via a 10km bumpy and muddy road. Mr Khamsone, the owner of the coffee farm, will bring you through a 1-hour demonstration about coffee roasting and end with a coffee cupping to savor the different kinds of coffee (Robusta, Arabica and Typica). Enjoy a picnic lunch on the farm at around 1.30pm before walking to the refugee cave, which was used by the local villagers as a place to hide during the time of war. Continue to the volcano mountain named “Phou Sanark” where a beautiful sunset view awaits. Learn to cook Laotian food with Mrs. Khamsone while preparing dinner with her. Stay the night in a tent camp at the coffee farm.

 

Day 3: Bolaven Plateau (Breakfast, Lunch)

Village Experience at Bolaven Plateau
Set off for a 14km Jeep drive, which will take 1 hour, to a village at Laven Plateau named “B Setkhord”. In this village, there are 500 families which have been living there for around 100 years. Take a stroll around as the guide tells you stories about the village. Proceed to Tad Say Waterfall to have your picnic lunch. Drive to a Suay Village named “B Darsia”, where there are many traditional houses. 30% of the houses are the traditionally built long house, and 60% is the traditional house. The house is where many generations will cook, eat and sleep together.

 

Day 4: Bolaven Plateau - Champasak (Breakfast, Lunch)

Cultural Tour of Champasak
After a visit to Tha Teng’s colorful ethnic minority food market, explore a couple of fascinating minority villages, Ban Bong Neua, an Alak village that boasts a sacrificial altar, and Ban Kokphung, a Katu village that keeps coffins under their houses. Arrive at the beautiful Tad Phaxuam Waterfall by mid-morning, before leaving the Bolaven Plateau for Champasak by lunchtime. In the afternoon, visit Wat Phou, an ancient Khmer religious complex dating back to the 5^th century. Recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, Wat Phou is a spectacular pre-Angkorian temple that sits amidst the rice fields and waterways of southern Laos.  The temple was constructed with three levels; the bottom level is focused on the baray (water reservoir) and promenade, the second level features quadrangular pavilions and galleries of carvings, and the top level is the sanctuary itself. The temple was built by the rulers of the Khmer empire before the construction of Angkor Wat. The temple served as the most important economic and political center of the region and is still one of the Lao people’s most revered temples. After your visit, view samples of French colonial architecture then take a boat to The River Resort, where you will spend the night.

 

Day 5: Champasak - Khone Island (Breakfast, Lunch)

Discovery Tour of 4000 Islands
Heading out of town, drive further south to Khone Island, and embark a long-tail boat to venture into the widest reach of the Mekong River, where during the dry season, the waters recede and leave behind thousands of islets, giving this area a lovely name “Si Phan Done”. Upon arrival, discover the local peaceful villages of Ban Khone, where you will see an array of relics from the French colonial era and retrace the old colonial past, including old French colonial buildings and the remnants of the first Lao railway with its locomotive. Continue to explore the 4000 Islands’ area by tuk-tuk and visit the marvelous Liphi waterfall, also called the “Corridor of the Devil” and is one of the most beautiful waterfalls marking Laos’ border with Cambodia. Catch a glimpse of the rare freshwater Irrawaddy Mekong dolphin at Ban Hang Khone if you are lucky. Enjoy the rest of day at your own leisure. You may wish to cycle around the island to watch local life or walk along the bank of Mekong river to admire the sunset.

 

Day 6: Khone Island - Pakse (Breakfast, Lunch)

Highlights of Pakse
In the morning, visit Khone Phapheng, considered to be the largest waterfall by volume in South East Asia. It is an impressive spot near the Lao-Cambodian border, set within an area which is teeming with wildlife, making this area one of the most breathtaking destinations in Laos. Take a long-tail boat to the fishing village of Ban Nakasang and drive back to Pakse. Founded by the French in 1905 as an administrative post, the capital of Champasak Province is a relatively new town at the confluence of the Mekong and Se Don rivers. In the afternoon, visit Ban Khoh, which specializes in stone carving, and walk to the nearby Wat Chomphet, which hosts the biggest sitting Buddha in Laos. Ascend to the top of Wat Phou Salao to marvel at the panoramic sunset view of Pakse and its nearby area.

 

Day 7: Departure from Pakse (Breakfast)

Free and Easy
Free till departure transfer to Pakse airport for homebound flight.

 

Gallery 07

 

Textiles	Kuang Si Waterfall
Wat Xiengthong	Laos Children

 

Itinerary 07

 

Day 1: Arrival in Luang Prabang (Dinner)

Luang Prabang's Highlights Tour
Upon arrival at Luang Prabang airport, our local representative will meet and welcome you. After check-in at your hotel, take a short walk around the small streets of city center, watching the locals go about their life. Continue to visit Royal Palace Museum, which hosts a range of interesting artifacts. In the late afternoon, climb to the top of Mount Phousi for an exploration of the sacred, gilded stupa as well as enjoy a panoramic sunset view of the city and the Mekong River. Enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant with traditional dance and folk songs, the best way to experience Lao culture. Immerse in the bustling atmosphere of the Night Market, where you can find a lovely selection of handmade textiles made by local and hilltribe people.

 

Day 2: Luang Prabang (Breakfast, Lunch)

Luang Prabang's Trekking Experience
Take a one-hour drive to Ban Xeng Mouk village where your 4-hour trek will start from. Begin with a visit to the ethnic Khmu village of Ban Longlao Nung before heading to the nearby Hmong village of Ban Longlao Song. You will be able to observe the lifestyles of these two culturally very different minority groups and see how despite their differences, they manage to work together on a day-to-day basis and even share the same school. As you continue the trail leading through rice paddies and vegetable fields, you will reach the mountainous forest. After visiting a cave which was used as a bomb shelter by the locals during the second Indochina war, stop by one of the many springs which feed Kuang Si waterfalls, where a beautiful pool full of sacred fish can be seen. Once you have descended from the top of the waterfall, enjoy a Lao style lunch amid a beautiful setting. Spend the afternoon dipping in and relaxing around the turquoise pools below the waterfall. You can also visit the nearby Bear Conservation Center, home to many bears which have been rescued from illegal farms. End your day with a short walk to a nearby Khmu village of Ban Thapene which hosts some of the most beautiful pools of Kuang Si Waterfalls.

 

Day 3: Luang Prabang - Nong Khiaw (Breakfast, Lunch)

Mekong River Experience
Start the day with a visit to the magnificent Wat Xiengthong with roofs sweeping low to the ground and ornate mosaics including a beautiful ‘tree of life ‘glass montage on the rear temple wall. Embark on your boat trip up the Mekong river, enjoying the lush green forests and landscape. Drop by a few villages and admire the breathtaking limestone karst scenery. Along the way, visit the mysterious Pak Ou Caves, two linked caves set high above the river and crammed with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes left by pilgrims. After visiting the caves, transfer to a car and continue to Nong Khiaw, a small town along the lazy Nam Ou River. Spend the rest of day at leisure where you can either take a relaxing stroll around town or hike up to Nong Khiaw’s viewpoint to enjoy the panoramic view and sunset.

 

Day 4: Nong Khiaw - Ban Phayong (Breakfast, Lunch)

Mekong River and Trekking Experience
Board a local long boat and head upstream through some fantastic landscape before making the first stop of the day at a small riverside village. Spend some time to explore and if it is a weekday, pay the local school a visit to see the charming children as they take part in their classes. Continue to Tad Mork which is located close to the ethnic Khmu village of Ban Sop Kong, an hour trek from the river. Have a swim and enjoy a picnic lunch at the waterfall. After that, start your 2.5- to 3-hour trek through the jungle to Ban Phayong, the village of the H’Mong people. Upon arrival at the village where you will spend the night at a homestay, stroll around the town to get familiar with the locals before having dinner with the host family.

 

Day 5: Ban Phayong - Muang Ngoi (Breakfast, Lunch)

Nam Ou River and Trekking Experience
Help the host prepare breakfast or watch the sun rise over the mountains, before you take a 3-hour trek downhill via the paddy and corn fields to the bank of Nam Ou river. Take a cruise upstream to Muang Ngoi, a fishing village in the middle of nowhere. In the afternoon, trek to the village of Ban Na, a Khmu village, and the cave of Tham Kaang, which is said to have supernatural powers. Walk back to Muang Ngoi while the sun is setting, and if time permits, swim in the Nam Ou river, just like the locals.

 

Day 6: Muang Ngoi - Muang Soune (Breakfast, Lunch)

Muang Soune Cultural Experience
After breakfast, take a boat back to Nong Khiaw to meet the local guide. Buy fresh food from the nearby market before continuing to Muang Soune, which is located 65km from Nong Khiaw by the bank of Nam Ou river. Arriving at the village, you will be welcomed by the host family. Observe the life of local people before learning more about the village from the village chief at his house and having lunch at the house of the host family. In the afternoon, you can choose to either relax or enjoy agricultural activities such as rice planting and harvesting in surrounding rice fields (depending on the season); traditional fishing techniques (you can sample your catch for dinner); walk around the farm and rice field. You may wish to have a dip in the inviting Nam Ou river, or join and help the host with preparing the dinner which you can learn more about Lao cuisine. Before dinner, join a private Baci ceremony, held by the elders of the village. The Baci ceremony is a traditional ritual of the Lao people which expresses the spirituality of the country and is a highly memorable experience and a deep insight into Lao culture. During dinner, folk tales will be told by the host family and translated by your guide.

 

Day 7: Muang Soune - Nam Ou (Breakfast, Lunch)

Nam Ou Relaxing Experience
Rise early to admire the beautiful sunrise over the Nam Ou river and the nearby mountains. After breakfast, learn traditional fishing techniques by the stunning Nam Ou river, and take a boat trip to explore the surrounding areas. Arrive at the village at 11:00 to return to Luang Prabang. Make a stop at Ban Vanglae, home to the lovely Nam Ou Riverside Resort, where you can spend the rest of the day to relax by the inviting pool or walk around the nearby village before resting for the night.

 

Day 8: Nam Ou - Departure from Luang Prabang (Breakfast)

Free and Easy
Return to Luang Prabang. Free till departure transfer to Luang Prabang airport for homebound flight.

 

Gallery 08

 

Patuxai Monument	Rice Field
Vang Vieng	Plain of Jars
Wat Xiengthong	Kuang Si Waterfall

 

Itinerary 08

 

Day 1: Arrival in Vientiane (Dinner)

Welcome to Vientiane
Upon arrival at Vientiane airport, our local representative will meet and welcome you. After check-in at your hotel, you can spend some time at your own leisure, such as taking a stroll and explore the city center, watching the locals go about their life. Enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant with traditional dance and folk songs, the best way to experience Lao culture.

 

Day 2: Vientiane (Breakfast, Lunch)

Vientiane's Highlights Tour
Start your day with a visit to Wat Si Muang, which is very famous for its supernatural power. Proceed to Buddha Park, an enchanting collection of Buddhist and Hindu sculptures on the Mekong Riverside meadow, close to the Friendship Bridge. There are approximately 200 religious images dating back over 500 years, which were created by a mysterious monk spreading his philosophy on life and revealing his ideas about the universe. In the afternoon, see the major sights of the capital; including the oldest Wat Sisaket, the temple with thousands of miniature Buddha statues and the former royal temple of Wat Prakeo, which previously housed the famous Emerald Buddha Image. On the way to Lao’s national icon, the famous and sacred structure of That Luang Stupa, stop by to take pictures of the imposing Patuxay Monument, which is well-known as Vientiane’s own Arc de Triumph. End the day with a spectacular sunset view over the Mekong River.

 

Day 3: Vientiane - Vang Vieng (Breakfast, Lunch)

Vang Vieng Nature Experience
Marvel at the breathtaking scenery as you pass through spectacular countryside towards the mountainous region. En route, visit the busy and colorful market of KM52 where various hill tribes gather to trade goods and buy provisions. If time permits, make a short photo stop at Hin Heup bridge and the fish market in Ban Tha Heua. Upon arrival at Vang Vieng, nestled on a bend of the Nam Song River, be amazed at its stunning scenery with limestone outcrops remaining unspoiled, despite recent developments with the advent of tourism. In the afternoon, pass through paddy field areas to head to Tham Phoukham caves, where you will be greeted by the most beautiful and famous limestone cavern, surrounded by natural forests. Along the way, explore the local cultures by greeting the villagers and learning about their lifestyle. You can take a refreshing swim in the natural pool in front of the caves or explore the nearby area, before transferring back to town via a leisurely boat ride along the Nam Song River while admiring the sun setting behind the mountains.

 

Day 4: Vang Vieng - Phonsavanh (Breakfast, Lunch)

Vang Vieng Scenic Experience
Explore the cave of Tham Jang, which was used in the early 19^th century in defense against the Chinese invaders, and now the most famous attraction in Vang Vieng. Cross the river to Ban Phathau, a pleasant village where you will discover the different local lifestyles. Start your expedition to Xieng Khuang, of which the roads are well-paved along the way for a smooth journey. Pass through stunning landscape with a mixture of steep terraced fields and hill villages and make a few photo stops at some small hill tribe villages en route. Each hill tribe village in Laos has a different vibe; some are more prosperous than others, but all have plenty of life. Along the way, stop by the peak of Phou Phiengpha to admire the panoramic view over the mountainous area. Take a drive a little further to the T-Junction in Phoukhoun, before taking the right turn onto Xieng Khuang province. From there, the road will get a bit harder as it includes zigzagging mountain paths. Make some stops along the way to visit the local hill tribe villages or to stretch your legs.

 

Day 5: Phonsavanh - Xieng Khuang (Breakfast, Lunch)

Plain of Jars and Muang Khoun Experience
Explore Plain of Jars, a huge archaeological complex littered with 2000-year-old stone jars that are up to 3 or 4m tall. While it seems that they were carved into boulders, their true origin remains a mystery. Discover the 3 sites of Plain of Jars and some villages where you can observe village life. Close to Site 3 which is the most impressive with over 150 jars, you will visit Ban Xiengdi where there is a small monastery with Buddha images. On the way back, you will pass by areas that were important battlefields during the American secret war. Today, you can still see bomb craters from that time. Plain of Jars had been heavily bombed during the war, so you need to respect all the signs and stay along the defined trails due to bombs, UXO and landmines. In the afternoon, enjoy a half-day trip to Muang Khoun, one place in the old provincial capital that was not destroyed by the American bombings during the secret war. Muang Khoun is also home to the unique sitting giant Buddha as well of some old pagodas that lie in ruins. The foundation and columns of Wat Pia Wat are still standing and close to this site, there is also an old 30m stupa constructed in the Lan Xang/Lanna period. 

 

Day 6: Xieng Khuang - Luang Prabang (Breakfast, Lunch)

Xieng Khuang Village Experience
Rise early to visit the Central Market of Phonsavanh to watch the different hill tribe people barter and exchange merchandise. After breakfast at the hotel, take the direct transfer to Luang Prabang. Along the way, make numerous photo stops and enjoy the splendid scenery of mountains and forest. Drop by Tham Pra, which served as a hospital during the Indochina War before arriving in Phonsavanh. Visit Ban Phoudam village, where you can see the two hill tribe minorities of H’Mong and Khamu living in harmony, before driving to the photo stop at Ban Kiew Nya for the panoramic view prior to reaching Luang Prabang.

 

Day 7: Luang Prabang (Breakfast, Lunch)

Luang Prabang's Highlights Experience
Begin the day at the Royal Palace Museum, a royal palace that was the residence of the Laos royal family and now a museum that hosts a range of interesting artifacts. Take a leisurely cruise upstream on the Mekong River, which also gives us a breathtaking view of the tranquil countryside, and head to Ban Xang Hai, a village famous for lao-lao, the traditional distilled rice whiskey. Continue to the mysteriousPak Ou Caves, two linked caves set high above the river and crammed with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes left by pilgrims. Upon return to the city, pay a visit to the magnificent Wat Xiengthong, with its roofs sweeping low to the ground representing classical Laotian architecture. Learn about Laos’ many ethnic cultures at Traditional Arts & Ethnology Center (closed on Mondays). Admire the sunset at the peaceful Wat Prabath before immersing in the bustling atmosphere of the Night Market, where you can find a lovely selection of handmade textiles made by local and hilltribe people.

 

Day 8: Luang Prabang (Breakfast, Lunch)

Luang Prabang's Nature Experience
Join the most sacred tradition of Laos, the daily morning alm-giving, which dates to the 14^th century. More than 200 Buddhist monks depart from various temples to gather their daily meal from the faithful residents sitting quietly on the streets. Following that, experience local life by visiting the temporary morning market near the former Royal Palace. The locals gather to barter their day’s catch from rice and vegetable to fish and chicken. After breakfast at the hotel, ascend the 329 steps to the top of Phousi Hill for a panoramic view of the city and the Mekong River. If time permits, visit UXO Visitor Center (closed on Saturdays and Sundays) where you can find the documentation about the secret war in Laos. Transfer to the beautiful Kuang Si waterfalls, the biggest in the Luang Prabang area with three tiers leading to a 50-metre drop into spectacular azure pools before flowing downstream. The pools also make great swimming holes and are very popular with both tourists and locals. Spend the rest of the afternoon having a refreshing dip in the cool clear water or hiking to the top of the waterfalls. If time allows, walk to the nearby village of Ban Thapene, and explore the hidden waterfalls which are rarely visited by other tourists, and make a short visit to the Bear Rescue Center, which houses a couple of dozen animals rescued from the hands of poachers and traffickers. End your day at Ock Pop Tock Living Craft Center to admire top-quality fabrics produced by weavers, spinners and batik makers, and hopefully catch the sunset as this is also one of the best spots to admire the sunset in Luang Prabang.

 

Day 9: Departure from Luang Prabang (Breakfast, Lunch)

Elephant Experience
After breakfast at the hotel, your car and guide will take you to Elephant Village. On arrival, you will be welcome and greeting by the Camp Manager and participate in short briefing. After enjoying the impressive experience of approx. 30-minute elephant ride on the neck; take a return boat trip to the Tad Sae Waterfall and enjoy some time in the clear water. Have buffet lunch (served with coffee or tea and drinking water) at the Elephant Village Restaurant before proceeding to pay a visit to the tomb of the 19^th century French explorer, Henri Mouhot; the first European to rediscover Angkor Wat and the Royal Kingdom of Luang Prabang. Take the departure transfer to Luang Prabang airport for homebound flight.