WONDERS OF LAOS
WONDERS OF LAOS Trip Description
Itinerary
In the morning, we will pick you up at HouayXay immigration office (Lao border).
After getting the VISA, guests will take a sharing transfer (minivan) to the slow boat pier to embark on the boat. Before reaching Pakbeng, we will stop to visit a traditional Kamu village (Ban Houa Phalam), a tiny cozy place which hosts about 90 families. Travelers will learn about rural lifestyle in a remote area. The boat will arrive at Pakbeng before night.
Overnight in Pakbeng.
Embark on a scenic boat journey from Pakbeng at 8 am, surrounded by the enchanting nature and jungle landscapes. In the morning, our guide and chef showcase the art of crafting Laotian desserts and local beverages, later savored during the afternoon. The first stop at Ban Baw village, home to a harmonious blend of Lao Loun, Shan, and Tai Lue ethnicities, renowned for its Lao whiskey. Indulge in a traditional Lao lunch on board. In the afternoon, explore the Pak Ou Caves (Tham Ting) with over two thousand Buddha statues, a significant pilgrimage site for the Lao people. After the visit, relish homemade desserts and drinks. The boat gracefully arrives in Luang Prabang before 4:30 pm.
Overnight in Luang Prabang.
Start the day with an immersive rice farming experience at the Living Lands community farm, delving into each step of the rice cycle. Be a rice farmer for a day, from seed selection to planting, ploughing with water buffaloes, and culminating in the rewarding experience of enjoying the harvested rice. The Living Lands Farm, located near Luang Prabang, combines educational programs with organic farming, supporting local communities. Explore traditional crafts like bamboo weaving and gardening. In the afternoon, visit the city's oldest temple, Wat Sene, and the magnificent Wat Xieng Thong, with its remarkable "tree of life" mosaic. The tour continues with stops at Wat Visoun's impressive stupa and an exploration of the Night Market, featuring handmade textiles by local artisans.
Overnight in Luang Prabang.
Embark on a day of cultural exploration in Laos, starting with the unique morning alms giving ritual to saffron-clad monks. Immerse yourself in the vibrant morning market, showcasing a delightful array of food. After breakfast, delve into the rich history at The National Museum and experience Luang Prabang's daily life at the Human Chan Heritage house. In the afternoon, venture south to the enchanting Kuang Si waterfall, where a leisurely hike through the national park unveils breathtaking scenery. End the day by ascending Phousi Mountain for a panoramic view of the city and its picturesque surroundings.
Overnight in Luang Prabang.
Today will be a day of natural wonders and cultural exploration in Laos. After a delightful breakfast, journey to the breathtaking Hoi Khua Waterfall in Pak Luang Village, a mesmerizing 100-meter cascade surrounded by blooming flowers and the invigorating scent of nature. In the afternoon, discover the rich heritage of Luang Prabang with a visit to the ancient temple Wat Chomphet, offering panoramic views of the city. Continue the journey to Ban Chan, a historic pottery village with a legacy of crafting pottery for the Royal Family. Explore the village, gaining insights into traditional pottery-making techniques passed down through generations.
Overnight in Luang Prabang.
Participate in a captivating adventure in Luang Prabang with a morning visit to Ban Packham's vibrant market. Begin your day at 8:00 am with a pick-up by our knowledgeable guide, heading to the Elephant Village Camp for a special encounter with Lao elephants. Engage in elephant feeding, explore the Elephant Village's fascinating facilities, and learn the art of communication with these majestic creatures. Embark on a 2 km trek through the diverse jungle landscape of the exclusive Trail of Falls, enjoying a picnic lunch in the forest. Continue with a 1 km trek to Tad Sae Waterfall, where you can relax or swim in its refreshing pools. Conclude your journey with a scenic boat trip back to the camp, offering glimpses of local river life. The adventure wraps up between 3:00 pm and 4:00 pm with a transfer back to your hotel in Luang Prabang.
Overnight in Luang Prabang.
After breakfast, depart by minivan to Nong Khiaw (it takes around 3.5-4 hours). On the way, visit some villages like Ban Nanyang where still recognized as one of the most highly preserved forms of authentic poblados life of Leu ethnicities and Algonquin production textiles.
Arrive at Nong Khiaw, check-in and take a rest.
Overnight in Nong Khiaw.
After breakfast, we will embark on a scenic river cruise to Muang Ngoi, stopping at diverse ethnic villages along the way. Explore the renowned Ban Sop Jam, known for traditional Lao silk and cotton weaving, where you can acquire exquisite textiles. After returning to Muang Ngoi, take a break before embarking on a trek through picturesque landscapes, including limestone cliffs, mountains, and rice paddy fields. Visit a historic cave used as a bomb shelter during the second Indochina war. Conclude the day with a breathtaking sunset cruise back to Nong Khiaw, arriving just before dark.
Overnight in Nong Khiaw.
Today we will depart to Luang Prabang. Arrival Luang Prabang at noon.
Free and easy at leisure in the afternoon.
Overnight in Luang Prabang.
After having breakfast, check out our escort guide and driver transfer to Vang Vieng – a beautiful riverside town in central Laos. We drive to the famous Blue Lagoon for relaxing, swimming in the crystal water, and visiting a few weaving villages before we continue to take a boat ride along Nam Song River to explore the wonderful spectacular scenery, limestone formation and take beautiful photos of the mountainous countryside.
Overnight in Vang Vieng.
Breakfast is at the hotel. Check out after breakfast, heading out to visit Tham Chang (Jang) cave – one of the most important caves of Vang Vieng as well as a temporary home for farmers who raise vegetables nearby.
After that, visit Vang Vieng Organic Farm. Explore the organic farm and traditional mud houses. The farm will invite you to a cup of mulberry tea. Then, transfer to Nam Song River to experience kaying.
Overnight in Vang Vieng.
Check out after breakfast, heading out to Vientiane. You will see crystal clear water running out of the mountain into the river, charming landscapes of the villages, and rice fields. Tour will be admired by a visit to Vang Sang – where remains of dozens of Buddha images dating from the 16th century. Continue to Vientiane Capital.
Overnight in Vientiane.
In the morning, we will start to discover the Vientiane capital by bike tour. Begin with Wat Si Muang, renowned for its supernatural power, and then visit Wat Sisaket, a temple adorned with thousands of tiny Buddha statues. Explore the ancient Wat Prakeo, once famous for housing the Emerald Buddha. En route to the iconic That Luang Stupa, capture photos of the impressive Patuxay Monument, often referred to as the Laotian "Arc de Triomphe." After lunch, venture to Buddha Park by car, a captivating collection of Buddhist and Hindu sculptures along the Mekong. Discover approximately 200 religious images created over 500 years, offering insights into a mysterious monk's philosophy on life and the universe.
Overnight in Vientiane.
Breakfast at the hotel and free at leisure until checkout at 12:00. Transfer by the driver to the airport.
Services
Included
- - Accommodation in homestay or hotels 4* with breakfast.
- - Lunch on all tour days.
- - Private transport as mentioned in the program.
- - Local guides with a lot of experience.
- - Tickets and boat excursion as mentioned in the program.
- - All operating service charges.
Excluded
- - Online visa.
- - Early check-in and late check-out are subject to availability with a surcharge.
- - Round-trip international flights to your country of origin.
- - Drinks and meals not specified in the itinerary.
- - Other services not mentioned in the list of included services.
Note
Highlight
- Visit: HouayXay – Pakbeng – Luang Prabang – Elephant Village Camp – Nong Khiaw – Luang Prabang – Vang Vieng – Vientiane
- Boat trip
- Trekking
- Hiking
- Cycling
- Swimming