8-day Spirit of Laos

After a scrumptious breakfast, we commence our city exploration at the Royal Palace Museum, housing a fascinating collection of artifacts. Embarking on a leisurely walking tour, we unveil the hidden gems of Luang Prabang through its tranquil back lanes leading to Wat Xiengthong. Along the way, we admire the architectural marvels of Wat Mai and Wat Visoun, fondly known as ‘The Water Melon Stupa’. In the afternoon, we immerse ourselves in the diverse ethnic mix and culture of Laos at the Arts and Ethnology Centre. Our journey continues to the weaving and textile villages of Ban Xangkhong and Ban Xienglek. As the day draws to a close, we ascend Mount Phousi for a breathtaking sunset and panoramic views of Luang Prabang and the Mekong River. Rest and overnight in Luang Prabang.

Our day commences with a visit to the Big Brother Mouse shop, where we select books for the village visit. Driving north along route 13, we embark on a scenic journey to Ban Khia Luang village. Upon arrival, we delight in spending time with the children, gifting them the books and enjoying the village ambiance. We also take the opportunity to explore the village, observe traditional weaving, and visit the local temple. Lunchtime offers a choice between a western picnic or savoring traditional Lao delicacies like sticky rice, laap, and fresh vegetables, lovingly prepared by the villagers. After bidding farewell to the village, we head to Ban Khoklin, passing through picturesque mountains and verdant paddy fields. A private boat ride down the Nam Ou river takes us to the Pak Ou Caves, adorned with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues left by pilgrims. Continuing our journey along the Mekong River, we arrive at the charming pottery village of Ban Chan. As the day comes to an end, we return to Luang Prabang, arriving in the late afternoon. Rest and overnight in Luang Prabang.

In the morning, you'll be transferred to the airport for your flight to Vientiane. Upon arrival, our guide will meet you and take you to your hotel. Our half day city tour starts with a visit to Wat Sisaket, the city's oldest temple housing thousands of miniature Buddha statues. Next, we explore the former royal temple of Wat Prakeo. Capture the beauty of the sacred That Luang Stupa and the imposing Patuxay Monument, Vientiane’s own Arc de Triumph. Our final stop is the enlightening COPE exhibition center, showcasing the impact of unexploded ordnance and mines on the local population. COPE also serves as a rehabilitation center for people with disabilities, providing training in prosthetic and orthotics. Overnight in Vientiane.

Early morning, you'll be transferred to the airport for your flight to Pakse. Upon arrival, embark on a 2-hour private traditional boat cruise to Champassak, an ancient town of the Champa Kingdom. Continue by car to Wat Phou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the 7th century, displaying remarkable ancient Khmer architecture. In the afternoon, we proceed to Don Khong, known for the 4000 islands formed during the rainy season in the widest part of the Mekong River. This area is also home to the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins. Along the way, we visit the atmospheric ruins of the Khmer temple, Oup Mong, located in the forest. We reach Khong Island via ferry in the early evening. Overnight on Khong Island.

After breakfast, we embark on a long-tail boat tour to Don Khone, where you can explore the island by bicycle, discovering the remains of French period architecture and the mesmerizing Liphi Waterfall, also known as "the Corridor of the Devil". Returning to the mainland at the fishing village of Ban Nakasang, we head south to visit Khone Phapheng, the largest waterfall by volume in Southeast Asia. This breathtaking site near the Lao-Cambodian border is also abundant with wildlife, making it a truly impressive destination. We then return to Khong Island for the night.

Today, we journey east into the enchanting Bolaven Plateau, known for its cooler climate at higher elevation. Our stops include Houey Ten, a Katu village renowned for its knifemaking, and a tea plantation. We'll also visit the picturesque Tad Fan Waterfall, and a coffee plantation before exploring Tha Teng Market, brimming with colorful ethnic minority delicacies. Our journey continues to Ban Bong Neua, an Alak village with a unique sacrificial altar. We'll relish the beauty of Tadlo Waterfall in the afternoon, where you can unwind and cool off in the refreshing pools. Later, we return to Pakse, stopping at Ban Houi Hun, an Alak weaving village with traditional beliefs of storing coffins under houses. Our last picturesque stop is at Paxuam Waterfall before arriving back in Pakse for your Farewell dinner. Overnight in Pakse.

After breakfast, you'll have free time to explore Pakse Town. Later, we'll transfer you to the airport for your departure flight home.