Adventures in Laos

A Taste of Laos

Laos is a perfect trekking destination as it boasts many beautiful areas for exploration.

The Taste of Laos tour takes you on an adventurous trekking expedition of the mountainous region of Luang Namtha, which is bordered with China and Myanmar and populated by over twenty ethnic minority groups. Stroll around the small town of Moung Sing, passing through hill tribe villages rarely visited by other tourists. Enjoy a boat trip downstream the Nam Ou River to Luang Prabang enjoying the forest landscape. The fascinating Buddha Park is also an impressive highlight of the tour.

Day 1. Arrival – Vientiane
On arrival in Vientiane Capital, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Located on the banks of the Mekong River, Vientiane is a charming and fascinating capital, with an interesting mix of Lao, Thai, Chinese, Vietnamese, French, Soviet and American influences. A city tour acquaints us with the capital and after freshening up, we start visiting some the major sights; including the oldest temple Wat Sisaket, an amazing structure featuring remarkable frescoes and Buddha images.

We also visit the former royal temple of Wat Prakeo, which previously housed the famous Emerald Buddha Image. Enroute to Lao’s national precious heritage, the famous and sacred structure of That Luang Stupa, you will have the opportunity to take some pictures of the imposing Patuxay Monument, which is well known as Vientiane’s own Arc de Triumph.

Day 2. Vientiane - Luang Namtha - Moung Sing
The journey northwards begins as we board our flight to Luang Namtha, a province sharing its border with China and Myanmar. Luang Namtha is located on the banks of the Namtha River is a land of rugged mountains and beautiful tropical forests. Today Luang Namtha is populated with over twenty ethnic groups, making this region one of the most ethnically diverse provinces in Laos. On arrival, we travel by road to Moung Sing, stopping along the way at the Akha hill tribe village. This ethnic group originally lived in China but immigrated into Laos over a century ago. They are very poor, but have a vibrant culture and an interesting history. Overnight in Moung Sing (B)

Day 3. Moung Sing – Trekking
The remote and extremely beautiful mountainious region of Muong Sing is ideal for an adventurous trekking expedition. After breakfast we stroll round this small town observing the daily activities of the ethnic minorities in the village and see the small vendors sell local textiles and handicrafts on the streets. We leave the village and take a short drive north before we setting off on a half-day trek, using the local tracks. We pass through some breathtaking mountain landscape to the Yao, Akha and Lanten hill tribe villages, where we are sure to attract attention from many ethnic minorities, as visitors do not frequently encounter this remote part of the country. Overnight at Moung Sing (B)

Day 4. Moung Sing–Luang Namtha–Oudomxay
We depart early this morning for our journey to Oudomxay. These back roads are a perfect way to venture off the beaten track and explore the real Laos. We see very few other travelers, mostly rural dwellers who are just as interested in finding out about our lives as we are of theirs. The drive can be challenging on some parts of our journey due to poor road conditions; however the verdant and rugged mountain scenery combined with the colorful local population makes for a memorable experience. On arrival we check in at a very simple hotel and take a walk to explore this picturesque hill town. Overnight at Oudomxay (B)

Day 5. Oudomxay – Muong La - Muong Khoua
The local market also attracts numerous ethnic minorities who converge from the surrounding mountainsides or valley to barter and trade their goods. We visit this congregation before setting off on our journey along the Nambak River to Muong La. Here we have the chance to visit the intriguing Pra Xack Kham Temple with its sacred Buddha image. The 400 years old legendary statue is said to have many supernatural powers, and is widely worshipped among the faithful local Buddhists. As we continue from Muong La towards Muong Khoua, the roads begin to deteriorate but the drive is very interesting as we pass through some stunning landscape. Overnight in Muong Khoua (B)

Day 6. Muong Khoua – Nong Khiow – Luang Prabang (Boat)
Today, embark a long trail traditional boat for a leisurely trip downstream on the Nam Ou River, enjoying the lush green forests and landscape. Along the way we stop to visit the mysterious caves of Pak Ou, two linked caves crammed with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes left by devoted pilgrims. We continue our trip down the river to the UNESCO World Heritage City of Luang Prabang. This former royal capital with its gleaming temple roofs, fading colonial architecture and stunning mountain backdrop retains a unique charm rarely found in all Asia. There is little traffic on the roads and you will see monks dressed in orange robes scurry in all directions carrying umbrellas shading themselves from the sun. Overnight in Luang Prabang. (B)

Day 7. Luang Prabang – City Tour
It is worth a visit to the National Museum (closed Tuesdays) at the former Royal Palace, which displays a lovely collection of artefacts reflecting the richness of Lao culture dating from the days of the early kings right through the last sovereign. Today we explore some of the major sights in this faboulous city, including the impressive stupa of Wat Visoun, the shrine of Wat Aham, the city’s oldest temple of Wat Sene and Wat Mai. We visit these sights as well as the magnificent Wat Xiengthong, its exterior architecture is remarkable with decorated guilded stuccoes and doorways, a “tree of life” mosaic pattern set in coloured glass on the back wall and its three tiered roofs sweeping low to the ground representing classical Laotian architecture. A visit to Luang Prabang would be incomplete without ascending 329 steps to the top of Mount Phousi for an enjoyable exploration of the sacred, gilded stupa and to enjoy a beautiful sunset view of the city and its glowing reflection on the Mekong River. From there, we explore the Night Market, where you can find a lovely selection of handmade textile made by local and hill tribe people surrounding Luang Prabang. Overnight in Luang Prabang (B)

Day 8. Luang Prabang – Vang Vieng
After breakfast, we leave this charming city in the early morning for our journey to Vang Vieng. Our journey will be strenuous as we drive along one of the most scenic but also one of the roughest routes in Asia. In the afternoon we arrive in Vang Vieng, a small and tranquil town, which is nestled on a bend of the Nam Song River. Its stunning scenery with a mixture of quiet water and limestone outcrops remains unspoiled, despite recent developments with the advent of tourism. On arrival we check into your hotel and then embark on our boat for a relaxing trip on the Nam Song River, exploring the breathtaking mountain landscape Overnight in Vang Vieng (B)

Day 9. Vang Vieng – Day trekking
The limestone cliffs and valleys surrounding Vang Vieng are home to numerous caves and caverns. The most famous in Vang Vieng is the cave of Tham Jang, which was used in the early 19th century in defense against the Chinese invaders. We visit this beautiful cave this morning before we take a walk to the Tai Deang and the Souay hill tribe villages. The hill tribe people are unfailingly friendly; welcoming you with waving hands and smilling faces. The rest of the day is free for your leisure for further exploration or for relaxing in this peaceful town. Overnight in Vang Vieng (B)

Day 10. Vang Vieng – Vientiane
Heading out of town we drive back to Vientiane. Along the way we make a stop to visit the archaeological sight of Vang Xang dating back to the 11th century. After checking into your hotel we transfer out to see the Buddha Park, an enchanting collection of Buddhist and Hindu sculptures on the Mekong Riverside meadow, near 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. Observing the spectacular view of over the Mekong River at sunset from one of the riverside bars is a perfect way to finish the day. Overnight in Vientiane (B)

Day 12. Vientiane – Departure
After breakfast, we visit the Morning Market and the weaving village of Ban Nong Bouathong if time permits. The tour ends after your transfer to Wattay airport for departure. (B)

Included

• Transportation in private air-conditioned vehicle
• Accommodation in Standard Hotels in twin shared room
• Boat trip as stated in above sights
• English speaking guide (escort)
• Admission fee to indicated sights
• Meals: daily breakfast at hotel
• Gov’t tax and service charge
• Luggage handling and drinking water
  
  Excluded:
• Visa stamping fee on arrival
• Int’l airport departure tax
• Domestic airticket without airport tax
• Int’l air tickets to / from Laos
• Travel Insurance in all kinds
• Meals:(lunch or dinner, quoted separately)
• Single room (quoted separately)
• Additional tour require beside above sights
• Tip, drinks, personal expenses and others

Unseen Laos

Immerse yourself on a journey relatively untouched by tourism.

The Unseen Laos tour allows you to discover the secret secluded lives of the hill tribe people on a challenging trek, visiting the various hill tribe groups of Akha, Laos, Dao, Khmu and Lantern. The people are very poor but share interesting cultures and a colourful history. You will get a real village life experience spending a night at the home of a Ban Nalan Villager. No visit to Laos is complete without exploring the main cities Vientiane, Luang Prabang and the peaceful town of Vang Vieng.

Day1. Arrival – Vientiane
On arrival in Vientiane Capital, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Located on the banks of the Mekong River, Vientiane is a charming and fascinating capital, with an interesting mix of Lao, Thai, Chinese, Vietnamese, French, Soviet and American influences.

A city tour acquaints us with the capital and after freshening up, we start visiting some the major sights; including the oldest temple Wat Sisaket, an amazing structure featuring remarkable frescoes and Buddha images. We also visit the former royal temple of Wat Prakeo, which previously housed the famous Emerald Buddha Image. Enroute to Lao’s national precious heritage, the famous and sacred structure of That Luang Stupa, you will have the opportunity to take some pictures of the imposing Patuxay Monument, which is well known as Vientiane’s own Arc de Triumph. Overnight in Vientiane

Day 2. Vientiane - Luang Namtha
The journey northwards begins as we board our flight to Luang Namtha, a province sharing its border with China and Myanmar. Luang Namtha is located on the banks of the Namtha River is a land of rugged mountains and beautiful tropical forests. Today Luang Namtha is populated with over twenty ethnic groups, making this region one of the most ethnically diverse provinces in Laos.

No activities are planned for the rest of the day so you can stroll around the town or just relax at the riverside retreat until the briefing about our upcoming trekking days. Overnight in Luang Namtha (B)

Day 3. Luang Namtha – Ban Nalan
Heading out of the town, we take a short drive to Ban Chalernsuk, a Khmu minority village 20 kilometres away from Luang Namtha. We get well and truly off the beaten track as we trek into this beautiful mountain region, using the local tracks.

Todays trekking may be tough at times with some steep uphill and down hill climbs, but the experience is unique and rewarding. The friendly Khmu hill tribe resides in this area; they have a primitive and basic lifestyle. We arrive at Ban Nalan by late afternoon; here we have a chance to understand a little more about the local culture and their daily lifestyle as we spend time with a Khmu family. We enjoy a local dinner and will reside as guests at the Khmu family house, the best way to experience authentic village life. The accommodation is simple dormitory style, no western facilities. (Home stay) (B, L, D)

Day 4. Ban Nalan – Ban Namlu – Luang Namtha
Todays trekking leads us along the bank of the river to Ban Namkoy, passing picturesque landscape of forests and rice fields. The forests here vary from a few isolated trees to overgrown bamboo. On arrival at Ban Namkoy we embark on a three-hour walk uphill.

This trek is a real challenge; however some prior physical preparation will enable you to maximize your enjoyment from the walk. As we pass through several hamlets, we are sure to attract attention from the locals, as visitors do not frequently encounter this remote part of the country. At the small village of Ban Namlu, we meet up with our truck and drive back towards Luang Namtha Town. Overnight in Luang Namtha (B)

Day 5. Luang Namtha – Xieng Kok - Moung Sing
Early this morning, we travel by road to Moung Sing, also home to various hilltribe communities. There is also a significant Chinese population and a lot of trade goes on between here and China. We stop along the way at the Akha hill tribe village. This ethnic group originally lived in China but immigrated into Laos over a century ago. They are very poor, but have a vibrant culture and an interesting history.

We depart this village, heading westbound, travelling over bumpy roads to Xieng Kok, which is a border town with Myanmar near the golden triangle. In late afternoon, we drive back to Muong Sing with a stopover at the Lantern minority village. Overnight at Moung Sing (B)

Day 6. Muong Sing – Oudomxay
Early morning, we visit the bustling colorful Morning Market and the impressive ethnologic museum, dedicated to region’s ethnic minorities. We then continue on to Oudomxay. Our splendid journey downhill passes numerous small villages en-route visit Khmu and Lantere.

On arrival at Oudomxay you will be transferred to your hotel before we commence our sightseeing tour of the town, which includes a visit to the stupa of Santhiphap that overlooks this bustling center of local trade and commerce. Overnight in Oudomxay (B)

Day 7. Oudomxay – Nong Khiow - Luang Prabang (Road and boat)
We depart early for our drive to Nong Khiow, where we board a traditional boat down the Nam Ou River to Luang Prabang. This tranquil town with its gleaming temple roofs, fading colonial architecture and stunning mountain backdrop has been claimed by UNESCO to be“the best preserved traditional city in South East Asia”. En route we visit the mysterious Pak Ou Caves where thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues are crammed into the two caves carved out of a towering limestone cliff. Continue down river to Ban Sang Hay village to sample the local rice wine known as Lao Lao. Arrive in Luang Prabang in the late afternoon and transfer to your hotel. Overnight in Luang Prabang (B)

Day 8. Luang Prabang – City Tour
After breakfast, we explore some of the major sights in this faboulous city, including the impressive stupa of Wat Visoun, the shrine of Wat Aham, the city’s oldest temple of Wat Sene and Wat Mai. We visit these sights as well as the magnificent Wat Xiengthong, its exterior architecture is remarkable with decorated guilded stuccoes and doorways, a “tree of life” mosaic pattern set in coloured glass on the back wall and its three tiered roofs sweeping low to the ground representing classical Laotian architecture.

A visit to Luang Prabang would be incomplete without ascending 329 steps to the top of Mount Phousi for an enjoyable exploration of the sacred, gilded stupa and to enjoy a beautiful sunset view of the city and its glowing reflection on the Mekong River. From there, we explore the Night Market, where you can find a lovely selection of handmade textiles made by local and hill tribe people surrounding Luang Prabang. Overnight in Luang Prabang (B)

Day 9. Luang Prabang – Vang Vieng – Vientiane (Road)
After breakfast, we leave this charming city in the early morning for our journey to Vang Vieng. Our journey will be strenuous as we drive along one of the most scenic but also one of the roughest routes in Asia.

In the afternoon we arrive in Vang Vieng, a small and tranquil town, which is nestled on a bend of the Nam Song River. Its stunning scenery with a mixture of quiet water and limestone outcrops remains unspoiled, despite recent developments with the advent of tourism. After exploring this peaceful and dream-like city, we continue our journey to Vientiane capital. We arrive in Vientiane by late evening. Over night in Vientiane (B)

Day 10. Vientiane – Departure
After breakfast, you are free until your transfer to the airport.(B)

Included

• Domestic airticket without airport tax
• Transportation in private air-conditioned vehicle
• Accommodation in twin shared room
• Boat trip as stated in above sights
• English speaking guide (each city)
• Admission fee to indicated sights
• Meals: daily breakfast at hotel
• Meals: 1 lunch and 1 dinner at villager
• Gov’t tax and service charge
• Luggage handling and drinking water
   
  Excluded:
• Visa stamping fee on arrival
• Int’l airport departure tax
• Int’l air tickets to / from Laos
• Travel Insurance in all kinds
• Meals:(lunch or dinner, quoted separately)
• Single room (quoted separately)
• Additional tour require beside above sights
• Tip, drinks, personal expenses and others

Laos Adventure

'Laos Adventure 'is a tour designed for the traveller who wants to discover the 'real Laos'. We will take you across the length of the charming country and deep into the heart of the most beautiful areas. You truly experience the very best of what this country has to offer - her people, culture and natural beauty. 26 days.

Day 1: Chong Mek - Pakse - Ban Khiat Ngong.

Heading south, we make our way to Ban Khiat Ngong. This village has a community project offering basic, but comfortable accommodation in an area of amazing diversity. This wetland habitat offers a great opportunity for birders and wildlife enthusiasts alike. The villagers have built hides and viewing shelters in strategic locations offering stunning vistas of the wetlands. In the afternoon we take to elephants and head for the hills. We trek up to the highland areas of Xe Pien National Bi-diversity and Conservation Area and to a ruined fort/temple. You will be amazed by the history of this forgotten place, and tales of the army once raised to conquer Pakse. The evening is spent in our rustic bungalows for real peace, quiet and sunsets.
Meals: B, L
Accommodation: Rustic bungalows
Transport: Private air-conditioned vehicle, elephant

Day 2: Ban Khiat Ngong - Four Thousand Islands

An early morning departure as we head south on the mighty Mekong River to the Four Thousand Islands area. This unique seasonal wetlands area is home to thousands of tropical islands, and a wide range of birdlife such as Blyths Kingfishers, Crested Warblers and the Mekong Wagtail. We head downstream passing various islands as the sun begins to set in a way that can only be experienced on the Mekong.

We stop at the rural island village of Ban Thaat where we enjoy a village stay to meet the local people and to glimpse their intriguing culture. Life on the Mekong has changed little with the passing of time making a stay with these friendly people a fascinating experience.
Meals: B/L
Accommodation: Homestay
Transport: Private air-conditioned vehicle, boat.

Day 3: Four Thousand Islands (Don Khon) - Liphii

In the morning we join the villagers in the fields to learn a little of their age old agricultural methods before taking to the river to traverse the many islands. We stop en-route to visit a village temple on a remote island where we gain some understanding of the Lao peoples' particular interpretation of Buddhism. After a picnic lunch on the riverside we paddle downstream to the spectacular waterfalls of Liphii. This massive cascade is believed to be the home of powerful spirits and when one experiences the powerful roar of the water this belief is understandable. A sunset at the falls is a sight not quickly forgotten. We retire for the evening for a balcony sunset at a small family run riverside guest house.
Meals: B, L
Accommodation: Riverside bungalow
Transport: Boat

Day 4: Four Thousand Islands (Don Khon) - Khong Prapheng - Irrawaddy Dolphins

The Mekong cascades are the biggest and widest in South East Asia. The force of the water is astounding and has cut dramatic gorges through the brittle bedrock. Waterfalls plunge violently from the sides of the gorges giving the area a surreal feeling like a moonscape with water. We stop midway through the gorges to climb to the top to view the Mekong fault line that has caused the cascades. The cascades are 6 kilometres wide at this point and the mist rising from the fault line way off into the distance of Cambodia is a sight to behold.

We enjoy lunch on the fault line in the shade provided by hardy trees that manage to survive the onslaught of the wet season floods. We paddle to the Southern Tip of Don Khon Island before heading downstream in longtail boats that wait to take us to see one of the rarest large mammal species in the World, the Irrawaddy Dolphin. The extremely rare and shy dolphins live hundreds of kilometres from the ocean and congregate at the base of the rapids in the dry season to hunt the many species of fish that survive in the deep pools.

After spending a relaxing hour or two watching and photographing the dolphins we return by longtail boat into the sunset to our guesthouse for a relaxing evening sharing our experiences in our comfortable bungalow hammocks.
Meals: B, L
Accommodation: Riverside bungalow
Transport: Boat

Day 5: Four Thousand Islands - Vat Phou - Tad Fane
From our freshwater island paradise, we head north for Tad Fane Eco-lodge. We stop en-route to explore the mysterious sixth century Pre Angkorian ruins of Vat Phou, an outstanding example of Khmer architecture newly designated an UNESCO World Heritage Site. We pass the remainder of the morning exploring the magnificent temple grounds before returning to a small restaurant nestled on the banks of the Mekong for a traditional Lao lunch.
Continuing north to the Bolaven Plateau, we reach Tad Fane Eco-lodge mid afternoon. The lodge is situated in the Dong Hua Sao National Biodiversity and Conservation Area (NBCA) on the edge of a deep gorge overlooking the 200 meter Tad Fane waterfalls. This is one of the most scenic areas in the region offering a variety of outdoor activities. The afternoon is free for exploring the local nature trails and waterfalls.
Meals: B, L
Accommodation: Tad Fane Eco-lodge
Transport: Private air-conditioned vehicle, boat

Day 6: Tad Fane - Bolaven Plateu

The day is spent exploring the Bolaven Plateau and naturally beautiful surrounding areas, and a short nature trek through coffee plantations to the open pine forests at the top of the plateau. A barbeque lunch in the forest is followed by an afternoon on the water as we descend down the peaceful waterways before returning to our luxurious rustic lodge.
Meals: B, L
Accommodation: Tad Fane Eco-lodge
Transport: Private air-conditioned vehicle, boat

Day 7: Tad Fane ñ Tha Kaek

Heading north, we take to route 13 and make our way to Khammouane Province. Khammouane straddles the narrow central 'waist' of the country of limestone karst mountains. This area holds the largest NBCA in the country, Nakai Nam Teun. We overnight in Tha Kaek (translated 'Guest Landing') and make preparations for our imminent trek into the wilderness of Nakai Nam Teun.
Meals: B
Accommodation: Tha Kaek Travel Lodge
Transport: Private air-conditioned vehicle

Days: 8, 9, 10 and 11: Mountains of Khammouane Trek

Welcome to central Laos, a Mecca for those who want to see truly unique and unusual world-class biodiversity. These 4 days are spent exploring some of the finest areas of Laos, still very much undiscovered.

From Tha Kaek we drive to the edge of the National Biodiversity Conversation Area. Our journey takes us through the NBCAís stunning limestone karst landscape. Nature watchers can sometimes see examples of various NBCA wildlife. This area is home to monkeys, several large cats including Clouded Leopard, Civet Cat and Tiger. Local Fauna includes many different type of Ferns, rare Orchids, Cycads and a variety of Epiphytes.
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Camping, homestays, Sala Hinboun Eco-lodge
Transport: Boat (B52 bomber fuel drop tank conversions), Soviet 4x4 jeep, foot

Day 12: Khammouane - Phou Khao Khouay - Ban Pako

Continuing northbound, we take to route 13 bound for our retreat, Ban Pako Eco-lodge, which nestles on a bend above the Nam Ngum river. En-route, we take time to visit the Phou Khao Khouay National Park. We enjoy a Lao picnic style lunch at the scenic spot of Tad Leuk waterfalls.
By late afternoon we arrive at Ban Pako.
Meals: B
Accommodation: Ban Pako Eco-lodge
Transport: Private air-conditioned vehicle

Day 13: Ban Pako

Surrounded by wonderful nature, Ban Pako offers us the perfect retreat for relaxation after our trek. We can enjoy a traditional herbal sauna set inside beautiful forest, and for the more active there are nature trails and boating on the Nam Ngum River.
Meals: B
Accommodation: Ban Pako Eco-lodge
Transport: Private air-conditioned vehicle, boat

Day 14: Ban Pako - Vientiane

Rejuvenated, we make our way after breakfast to Vientiane. In the afternoon there is time to explore the highlights of Vientiane.
Evening free for entertainment.
Meals: B
Accommodation: Hotel
Transport: Private air-conditioned vehicle

Day 15: Vientiane - Ban Thaat

We head immediately north and into the central highlands. From here we leave the beaten track and take to the river by kayak through a lushly forested protected area. The day is spent enjoying the stunning scenery along the river, and for the more adventurous, base jumping off cliffs into the cool waters. That evening, we are hosted in the rural village of Ban Thaat. Here we can learn how and why these people were relocated during the last Indochina war, over a traditional Lao banquet prepared by and eaten with the villagers.
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Village homestay
Transport: Private air-conditioned vehicle, boat

Day 16: Ban Thaat - Nam Ngum Lake - Vang Vieng

We pass the morning with a visit to a traditional Lao village before paddling the remainder of the river to Thalaat. The Nam Ngum Lake offers stunning views and dozens of tropical islands to explore. We enjoy a delicious banquet of freshly caught fish and local vegetables at a floating restaurant while viewing the lake.
From here we take to the lake on a cargo boat to explore some of the many islands, stopping to enjoy a swim in the clear waters. By mid afternoon we return to Ban Nam Ngum for our shuttle onwards to Vang Vieng.
Meals: B, L
Accommodation: Riverside Bungalow
Transport: Private air-conditioned vehicle, boat

Day 17: Vang Vieng

The day is spent exploring the highlights of this scenic area. Stunning karst Limestone Mountains contain a labyrinth of cave networks, spectacular waterfalls and secluded areas with cool swimming holes. The evening can be spent taking in the amazing sunset over the mountains from our luxury riverside bungalows.
Meals: B, L
Accommodation: Riverside Bungalows
Transport: Local transport, boat, foot

Day 18: Vang Vieng - Luang Prabang

Leaving the misty mountains of Vang Vieng behind, we continue our adventures northbound to the ancient Royal capital of Laos - Luang Prabang. The afternoon is free for relaxing at our converted colonial French villa.
Meals: B
Accommodation: Phou Si Hotel
Transport: Private air-conditioned vehicle

Day 19, 20: Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang is a UNESCO world heritage site filled with beautiful temples, French colonial buildings and warm smiles of the northern Lao people. We visit the Royal Palace and spectacular Kuang Si waterfalls as well as having plenty of time for independent exploration of this wonderful old city and its many treasures.
Meals: B
Accommodation: Phou Si Hotel
Transport: Local transport

Day 21: Luang Prabang - Luang Namtha

We drive north over mountains to Luang Namtha, heading straight to our charming accommodation at the Boat Landing Eco Lodge. Set on the banks of the beautiful Nam Tha River the Boat Landing represents the perfect place to be introduced to the local Namtha cuisine which we do in style with a banquet of local delicacies.
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Boat Landing Eco Lodge
Transport: Private air-conditioned vehicle

Days 22,23 24 and 25: Nam Ha Rafting and Trekking Safari

Leaving our extra baggage behind, we prepare for one of the highlights of the trip, into the pristine environments of the Nam Ha National Biodiversity & Conservation Area. The river expedition is a safe and exciting way of experiencing this pristine mature forest. The locally trained UNESCO rafting guides will give you an insight into this environment and the ethnic minorities who live here.
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Village homestays
Transport: Boat, foot

Day 26: Houey Xai - for Chiang Khong ñChiang Rai /Bangkok

Guests are escorted to the Lao border crossing point for onward destinations or to continue with the options available below.
Meals: B
Accommodation: None
Transport: Private air-conditioned vehicle.

Included

• Transport: Private air-conditioned vehicle
• Tour Leader (English)
• All meals
• Accommodation and transport as listed above
• 15% tax
• all required sporting equipment
• all entrance fees and tour activities as listed
• limited liability insurance.

Laos Overland - 7 days

As one of Asia's most tranquil towns, Luang Prabang is a well-preserved heritage town famed for its unique blend of golden temples and colonial buildings set amidst the lush green mountains. Learn about Buddhism and its central role in Lao life as you explore the glided temples, saffron-clad monks and sedate riverine lifestyle. You will have the opportunity to capture the spectacular sunset at Mount Phou Si before wandering through the bustling hill tribe market in the evening.

From Luang Prabang, a scenic drive southwards will bring you to Vang Vieng. Surrounded by dramatic karst scenery lining a gently flowing Nam Song River, this town will prove an extraordinary sight to behold as you trek and explore its numerous limestone caves and caverns. Revel in the natural beauty of Nam Ngum Lake, an immense artificially dammed lake that powers hydroelectricity for Laos and her neighbors.
Rounding up your Laos travel in Vientiane, the capital city of Laos still maintains the handsome majesty and grandeur of its colonial yesteryears with its numerous popular and historical landmarks.

Day 1 - Arrival in Luang Prabang
On arrival, you will be welcomed by your tour guide and taken to La Residence Phou Vao. At sunset, ascend the 328 steps to the top of Phou Si Mountain that offers a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding rivers and cityscape before wandering through the bustling Hilltribe Market for traditional textiles and handicrafts made by the hill tribes.
Overnight in The Grand Luang Prabang at Luang Prabang.

Day 2 - Pak Ou - Luang Prabang (B)
Following breakfast, cruise along the Mekong River to Pak Ou Caves, where you will discover gold-lacquered Buddha statues of all shapes and sizes nestled deep in the limestone caverns. Embark on a cultural tour of Luang Prabang in the afternoon, in which you will visit the Royal Palace, now National Muesum, before exploring the gilded temples such as Wat Mai, Wat Sensoukarahm and Wat Xieng Thong dotted across the city. Optional: If you are interested in the performance arts of Southeast Asia, the Royal Ballet Theatre will provide an excellent avenue to catch a spectacular display of the Royal Ballet.
Overnight in The Grand Luang Prabang at Luang Prabang.

Day 3 - Luang Prabang - Kuangsi (B)
For early risers, you will have to option to observe the long rows of monks in saffron robes receiving alms from the locals at dawn. Following breakfast, gain a deeper understanding of Lao culture at Wat Visoun with its iconic Watermelon Stupa and Wat Aham with the altar of Luang Prabang's two respected geniuses. At Kuang Si Waterfalls, you will have a spectacular view of water cascading into the clear turquoise pools at its foot.
Overnight in Grand Luang Prabang at Luang Prabang.

Day 4 - Luang Prabang - Vang Vieng (B)
En route to Vang Vieng along the scenic Route 13, stop by Kasi and enjoy some of the local fruit produce. At Nam Song River in Vang Vieng, you will be enthralled by the spectacular karst limestone mountains lining the riverbanks. Watch the sun setting against the jagged limestone cliffs, or trek and explore the numerous caverns while discovering their roles in local mythology.
Overnight at The Elephant Crossing Resort in Vang Vieng.

Day 5 - Vang Vieng - Vientiane (B)
Experience the magnificence of Nam Ngum Lake and the mountainous surroundings while learning the significance of this artificially dammed lake that churns out hydroelectric power and revenue for the country. Revel in the natural scenery of this largest lake in Laos as you cruise slowly on the lake and observe fishermen in their daily activities. Gain further insights into local livelihoods at Ban Kheune's salt mine and local market off Kilometer 15.
Overnight at The Green Park in Vientiane.

Day 6 - Vientiane (B)
Discover the quiet charm of this Lao capital city at Wat Sisaket with the hundreds of Buddha statues nestled in the temple walls and Vat Ho Phra Keo, the temple that once housed the sacred "Emerald Buddha". Continue with the cultural tour in the city at Presidential Palace, the popular Wat Simuang. In the afternoon, ascend the steps up to Patuxai, Vientiane's own Arc de Triomphe for a spectacular view over a city that has almost no high-rise buildings before heading to That Luang, the cultural icon of Vientiane. You will have a chance to indulge in the aromatic flavors and smells of Lao coffee.
Overnight at The Green Park in Vientiane.

Day 7 - Departure from Vientiane (B)
After breakfast, spend the morning leisurely before transferring to the airport for your departure flight.

Included

• Accommodation with daily breakfast at selected hotels
• Meals as indicated in itinerary with B = Breakfast; L = Lunch; D = Dinner.
• Services of an English speaking guide during all tours and transfers
• Services of a driver and private air-conditioned vehicles during all tours and transfers
• Admission fees for all sights visited
• Camera and video cameras fees if applicable
• Boat trip as mentioned in the program to Pak Ou Caves
• Fees for elephant riding
• All permissions and local taxes