10-Day South Laos Highlights from Vientine to Savannakhet, Pakse, and Don Khong

Tour Code: XMX337IRU9G4

4.9 (120 Reviews)

Vientiane, Savannakhet, Pakse, Don Khong

From: €528 4-star hotels

4.9

(120 reviews)

Check

Duration

10 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

___

About this tour

Embark on a 10-day journey through Laos, exploring its diverse landscapes and cultural treasures. Begin in Vientiane, the capital city steeped in Buddhist temples and French colonial architecture. Continue south to Savannakhet, known for its tranquil Mekong River setting and historic charm. Journey further to Pakse, gateway to the Bolaven Plateau, renowned for its coffee plantations and majestic waterfalls. Finally, venture to Don Khong in the 4,000 Islands region, where the mighty Mekong River unfolds into a labyrinth of islands, offering a serene retreat amidst nature’s wonders. Discover Laos’s rich heritage and natural beauty on this unforgettable adventure.

Included/Excluded

* Throughout the tour, guests will be accommodated exclusively in 4- and 5-star hotels.
* Accommodation based on twin or double sharing room
* All transfers and road transport in modern, air-conditioned vehicles if specified in the program
* Meals as mentioned in the program. B-Breakfast, Br-Brunch, L-Lunch, D-Dinner
* Your tour guide is a professional, fully trained employee of Indochina Royal Travel
* Entrance fees if specified in the program
* Airfares, Cruise, Train, Sleeper bus if specified in the program.

* Compulsory tips for tour guide and driver
* Meals not mentioned in the program
* Single Supplement. Early check-in and late check-out. Hotel/Room upgrade
* Drinks, personal expenses and any services not clearly mentioned in the program
* Surcharge for the festive seasons
* Applicable Government Taxes and other service charges.
* The tour cost does not include POE charges and passport charges.
* Porterage Facility

Hotel List:
To view the list and detailed information about the hotels used in the tour

Please click here: View Hotel List

Itinerary

<span> Day 1</span> Vientiane Airport Pick-up

Upon your arrival in Vientiane, our local guide will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in the city. You'll have the afternoon free to unwind and explore the vicinity on your own. Alternatively, our guide can accompany you to the riverside, where you can witness the sunset casting its glow over the Mekong River.

<span> Day 2</span> Vientiane City Tour with Buddha Park

Today, embark on a full-day guided tour of Vientiane, the captivating capital of Laos. Your day begins with a visit to the National Museum, showcasing impressive art collections. Next, explore Wat Sisaket, the city’s oldest temple adorned with thousands of silver and porcelain images, and Haw Phra Kaeo, home to the revered Emerald Buddha surrounded by fragrant frangipani trees. After exploring the historic Morning Market, proceed to Pha That Luang, a magnificent golden Buddhist stupa, and Patuxai, a grand monument symbolizing Laos' independence. In the afternoon, you'll visit Buddha Park to admire its collection of Buddha sculptures.

<span> Day 3</span> Vientiane Highlights with Phou Hin Boun National Park & Ban Tiou Village

Following breakfast, travel southward along Road 13 under the guidance of our team. Our first destination is Wat Prabath Phonsane, also known as the Temple of the Buddha's footprint. Following lunch at a nearby local restaurant, we'll depart from the main highway and enter the Phou Hin Poun National Protected Area (NPA), renowned for its stunning landscapes of limestone karsts, verdant forests, and picturesque rice paddies. Our journey continues to Ban Tiou village, where you can immerse yourself in the local way of life. After this enriching visit, we will escort you back to your hotel for relaxation.

<span> Day 4</span> Cruise to Konglor Cave & Back to Ban Tiou Village

After breakfast, you will embark on a wooden sampan for a scenic 3-hour cruise along the river through Kong Lor Cave, the longest cave in the region. As you enter the cave, your boat will traverse the underground section of the Hin Boun River, which flows year-round, revealing impressive formations of stalactites and stalagmites. Emerging on the other side, you'll have the opportunity to pause for refreshments and take a leisurely walk through local villages, soaking in the picturesque scenery and observing the traditional way of life. After departing Kong Lor Cave, you will return to Ban Tiou village to unwind and relax.

<span> Day 5</span> Mahaxai Cave (4 caves) & Drive to Savanakhet

Following breakfast, you will depart from the hotel and proceed to visit the remarkable Mahaxai caves, renowned for their stunning karst landscapes. After exploring this natural wonder, you will continue your journey to Savannakhet for an overnight stay.

You will be transported to Pakse. Upon arrival in Pakse, you will settle into your hotel and have the remainder of the day to leisurely explore the charming town.

<span> Day 7</span> Bolaven Plateu Sightseeing

Today, your journey will take you on a guided exploration of the Bolaven Plateau, a mountainous area renowned for its diverse hill tribes, picturesque waterfalls, and flourishing coffee and tea plantations. You'll have the opportunity to witness the stunning Tad Lo Waterfalls, Tad Yuang, and the majestic Tad Fane Waterfalls, a pair of twin cascades standing 120 meters tall, formed by the confluence of the Champy and Pak Koot rivers.

On our return drive to Pakse, we will make a stop at a tea or coffee plantation. Laos is celebrated for its exceptional coffee, much of which is cultivated here on the Bolaven Plateau. Visiting one of these plantations will offer insights into the cultivation, harvesting, and roasting processes of these delightful beans. Arriving back in Pakse in the late afternoon, you will then be transferred to your hotel.

<span> Day 8</span> Pakse Sightseeing & Drive to Don Khong

Following breakfast, your day begins with a visit to notable attractions in Pakse, including Wat Phou, a magnificent temple complex dating back to the 10th century before the Angkorian era. You will also explore Tomo Village and Oum Muong, an enigmatic forest temple nestled just a short stroll from the village. After these explorations, you will be privately driven to Don Khong.

<span> Day 9</span> Don Khong Highlights with Si Phan Don

Today, embark on a cruise through 'Si Phan Don' (Four Thousand Islands), an expansive stretch of the Mekong River where numerous islands emerge during the dry season, lending this region its charming name. During the journey, you will visit Liphi waterfalls and the fishing village of Ban Khone. On the return trip, a brief drive will take you to the Lao-Cambodian border at Weukham, where you can witness Khone Phapheng, the largest waterfall in Southeast Asia.

<span> Day 10</span> Pakse Airport See-off

Following breakfast, you will be escorted to the airport for your flight departure. We wish you a pleasant journey back home!

Durations

9 - 12 days

Regional Tours

Laos

For more information or to book this tour, please click the request button below:

BOOKING REQUEST

PRIVATE CUSTOMISED TRIP

Tour's Location

Vientiane, Savannakhet, Pakse, Don Khong

Vietnam’s Revolutionary Spirit - Exploring Vietnam’s Revolutionary Spirit When you travel through Hanoi, you’ll notice that the city’s history isn’t just preserved in its temples and French villas — it also lives on in its museums. One of the most fascinating places to experience this is at 216 Tran Quang Khai Street, home to what was once the Museum of the Vietnamese Revolution. Today, it forms part of the National Museum of History, focusing on Vietnam’s revolutionary journey — from the earliest anti-colonial movements in the 19th century to the nation’s dramatic transformation after reunification in 1975. This museum is more than a collection of artifacts; it’s a powerful narrative of resilience, patriotism, and hope, told through rare documents, photographs, and stories of the people who shaped modern Vietnam. 🏛️ A Museum with Revolutionary Roots Originally established as the Museum of the Vietnamese Revolution, the site was dedicated to chronicling the struggles of the Vietnamese people against colonial powers and foreign domination. In recent years, the collection was integrated into the larger National Museum of History, giving visitors a complete picture of the nation’s past in one cohesive institution. Walking through its halls in 2025, you’ll find that the displays are thoughtfully curated to guide you through the country’s turning points — from underground resistance newspapers to iconic photographs of revolutionary leaders. 📜 The Story Told Through Documents and Words Unlike other museums that rely heavily on artifacts, this one leans on the power of documents and writing to bring history to life. Clandestine Newspapers 📰 – The earliest whispers of resistance often came through underground publications, secretly printed and distributed despite colonial surveillance. These fragile papers now rest in glass cases, a reminder of the courage it took to spread ideas of freedom. Revolutionary Tracts ✍️ – Many of these were penned by Ho Chi Minh, whose words inspired generations to resist oppression and fight for independence. His essays, pamphlets, and letters remain a central feature of the museum’s collection. Rare Photographs 📸 – The museum proudly displays portraits of Vietnam’s revolutionary heroes. Some of these images cannot be found elsewhere, making the exhibit especially valuable for history enthusiasts. ⚔️ War and Resistance: Key Exhibitions The museum also shines a spotlight on some of the defining battles and wars of Vietnam’s modern history. 🌄 Dien Bien Phu – The Decisive Victory No exhibit about Vietnam’s revolutionary struggle would be complete without a tribute to the Battle of Dien Bien Phu in 1954. This historic victory against French forces marked the end of colonial rule in Indochina and paved the way for the Geneva Accords. The museum presents documents, maps, and photographs that capture the determination of the Vietnamese fighters. 🇻🇳 The War of Independence The displays offer an in-depth look at Vietnam’s long fight for sovereignty, from grassroots resistance groups to organized national movements. Visitors can see how everyday people became part of a collective force determined to reclaim their homeland. 🪖 The American War (Vietnam War) Though the Military History Museum provides more extensive coverage of the Vietnam War, this site still offers a compelling collection. Visitors can explore carefully presented exhibits about the conflict, highlighting both the struggles and the resilience of the Vietnamese people. From propaganda posters to personal items of soldiers, these stories personalize a war that changed the world. 🌟 Why Visit 216 Tran Quang Khai in 2025? Authenticity: Many of the documents and photos are one-of-a-kind, offering perspectives not found in other museums. Emotional Impact: The focus on writings, faces, and personal stories creates a human connection with history. Contextual Learning: When combined with the main History Museum at Trang Tien and the Military History Museum, you gain a well-rounded understanding of Vietnam’s journey. 🕘 Visitor Information (Updated 2025) 📍 Address: 216 Tran Quang Khai Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi🕗 Opening Hours: Daily 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM & 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM (Closed on the first Monday of each month)🎟️ Tickets: Entrance fee required; combined tickets with the National Museum of History are available for convenience.🌐 Official Website: baotanglichsu.vn🚶 Getting There: Just a short walk from the Opera House and Hoan Kiem Lake, making it easy to include in your Hanoi itinerary. 💡 Travel Tips for Visitors Pair Your Visit: Plan to see both 216 Tran Quang Khai and the main History Museum at 1 Trang Tien on the same day. Together, they tell the full story of Vietnam. Allow Enough Time: While smaller than the main site, the depth of the documents and exhibits deserves at least 1–2 hours. Photography: Limited photography may be allowed; check current rules upon entry. Guides & Audio Tours: Hiring a guide or using an audio tour app can provide richer insights, especially if you’re not familiar with Vietnam’s revolutionary figures. Respect the Space: For many locals, these exhibits are not just history but part of their family’s lived experiences. 🌏 Connecting Past and Present Visiting 216 Tran Quang Khai is not simply about studying old documents. It’s about standing in the presence of a nation’s collective memory — of battles fought, sacrifices made, and dreams of independence realized. For travelers in 2025, when Vietnam is thriving as one of Asia’s fastest-growing economies and cultural destinations, the museum is a poignant reminder of how far the country has come. From clandestine newspapers to post-war reconstruction, the exhibits encapsulate the resilience and determination that continue to define Vietnam today. ✨ Final Thoughts If you’re exploring Hanoi and want to go beyond the surface, make time for 216 Tran Quang Khai. It’s not as flashy as the Old Quarter or as glamorous as the Opera House, but it holds something deeper — the soul of Vietnam’s revolutionary journey. Walking through its halls, you’ll encounter not just names and dates but real voices from the past, still echoing with a call for freedom and unity. And that makes this museum one of Hanoi’s most powerful and unforgettable cultural experiences.Hanoi’s National Museum of History - 🏛️ Hanoi’s National Museum of History: A Journey Through Vietnam’s Past If you want to truly understand Vietnam — its struggles, triumphs, and cultural depth — there’s no better place to start than the National Museum of History in Hanoi. Nestled just one block east of the Hanoi Opera House, this museum is not only a treasure trove of artifacts but also a masterpiece of architecture, blending French colonial charm with traditional Vietnamese motifs. In 2025, the museum continues to be one of Hanoi’s must-visit cultural landmarks, offering travelers a chance to step back thousands of years into Vietnam’s past. From prehistoric tools to imperial treasures and wartime relics, every corner tells a story of resilience and creativity. 🏯 Architecture: A Blend of French Elegance and Vietnamese Tradition Before even stepping inside, the building itself demands admiration. Designed in the 1930s by the École Française d’Extrême-Orient, the structure combines the grandeur of a French villa with the curves and rooflines of Vietnamese palatial design — a style often referred to as Neo-Vietnamese architecture. With its ochre-yellow walls, graceful balconies, and tiled roofs, the museum feels like a harmonious fusion of East and West. Even today, photographers and architecture enthusiasts are drawn here, not just for the exhibits but also for the artistry of the building itself. ⏳ A Walk Through Time: The Museum’s Layout The National Museum of History is divided into two main sections: The main building at 1 Trang Tien Street — covering Vietnam’s history up to 1945. The annex across the street at 216 Tran Quang Khai Street — focusing on the post-1945 era, including Vietnam’s struggle for independence and reunification. This division allows visitors to follow Vietnam’s journey step by step, from prehistoric times to the modern nation it has become. 🥁 Ground Floor Highlights: The Bronze Age and Beyond Stepping into the ground floor is like traveling back over 2,000 years to the era of the Dong Son culture (1200–200 BC). This sophisticated Bronze Age civilization thrived in the Red River Delta and left behind remarkable artifacts that continue to astonish historians. 🌟 Must-See Exhibits on the Ground Floor The Ngoc Lu Drum 🥁 – Considered the crown jewel of the collection, this ceremonial bronze drum is adorned with delicate carvings of deer, birds, and musicians. Its craftsmanship demonstrates advanced casting techniques far ahead of its time. Bronze Tools and Utensils ⚒️ – From arrowheads to cooking implements, these everyday objects reveal the ingenuity of early Vietnamese societies. Artifacts from Hanoi’s Imperial Citadel 🏯 – Excavations in recent decades have uncovered treasures from Hanoi’s historic citadel, shedding light on its role as a political and cultural center. 11th-Century Amitabha Buddha 🧘 – A graceful wooden statue reflecting the influence of Buddhism in Vietnam’s medieval era. Celadon Ceramics 🍵 – Exquisite pale-green pottery from the Ly dynasty, admired for its elegance and durability. Bach Dang River Stakes ⚓ – Wooden stakes used in the legendary 13th-century battle, when Vietnamese forces under General Tran Hung Dao defeated Mongol invaders by luring their fleet into a deadly trap. Standing before these relics, you don’t just see artifacts — you feel the spirit of Vietnam’s ancestors who shaped the nation’s identity. 📜 Second Floor Treasures: Dynasties, Art, and Colonial Influences Moving upstairs, the second floor offers a vivid journey through Vietnam’s dynastic golden ages and its encounters with foreign powers. 🌟 Highlights of the Second Floor Le Loi Stele (3 meters tall) 🗿 – This monumental stone slab recounts the life of Le Loi, the national hero who led the resistance against Ming Chinese rule and established the Later Le dynasty (1428–1788). Ceramics Collection 🍶 – An extensive display of intricately painted ceramics, showcasing how Vietnamese artisans perfected techniques over centuries. Nguyen Dynasty Exhibits 👑 – Furniture inlaid with ivory, embroidered silk garments, and ceremonial items once used by emperors inside Hue’s Imperial Citadel. 19th-Century Ink Wash Paintings 🎨 – Evocative depictions of Hue’s imperial court life in the 1890s, capturing the elegance and rituals of Vietnam’s last dynasty. French Colonial Era Relics 🏛️ – Artifacts reflecting Vietnam’s transition during the late 19th and early 20th centuries under French rule, offering insight into cultural exchanges and struggles for identity. This section bridges the past with the dawn of modern Vietnam, revealing how the country endured centuries of outside influence while preserving its cultural soul. 📍 The Annex: Vietnam After 1945 Across the street, the second museum building covers the modern chapter of Vietnam’s history. Here, visitors encounter exhibits from the August Revolution, the First Indochina War, and the Vietnam War (known in Vietnam as the American War). You’ll see military uniforms, personal belongings of revolutionary leaders, propaganda posters, and photographs documenting the nation’s struggle for independence and reunification. It’s a powerful and emotional experience, particularly for visitors seeking to understand Vietnam’s resilience in the 20th century. 🕘 Visitor Information (Updated 2025) 📍 Address: 1 Trang Tien Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi🕗 Opening Hours: Daily 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM & 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM (Closed the first Monday of each month)🎟️ Tickets: Entry fee applies (with additional small fee if bringing a camera). Tickets can now be purchased online via the museum’s official website to skip queues.🌐 Official Website: baotanglichsu.vn 💡 Travel Tips for Visiting in 2025 Best Time to Visit: Mornings are quieter, especially on weekdays. Arrive early to avoid tour groups. Combine With Nearby Attractions: The Opera House, Trang Tien Plaza, and Hoan Kiem Lake are all within walking distance. Bring a Guidebook or Audio Guide: While many exhibits now have English and French explanations, a guidebook or hired guide adds context to the vast collection. Photography: A small fee is required for cameras, but the photos are worth it, especially for the architectural details. Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be on your feet for at least 2–3 hours exploring the two buildings. 📸 Why the Museum is a Must-See in Hanoi Unlike many museums that feel static, the National Museum of History in Hanoi is alive...