Tour Code: XMX337IRU9G4
11 Days
Daily Tour
Unlimited
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Embark on an unforgettable 11-day journey through the heart of Laos, exploring its rich cultural heritage and natural wonders. Begin in the serene town of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where ancient temples and vibrant markets await. Cruise along the Mekong River to Pak Ou Caves, filled with thousands of Buddha statues. Continue to the capital, Vientiane, where French colonial architecture blends with Buddhist stupas. Discover the southern charm of Pakse and visit the revered Wat Phou temple complex in Champasak, marveling at its Khmer ruins. This tour promises a blend of history, spirituality, and scenic beauty at every turn.
Today, you'll embark on your journey to the enchanting town of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage site nestled between the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers. Upon arrival, you'll be greeted at the airport and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to relax and explore at your own pace. Take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets, visit local markets, or simply unwind after your flight. In the evening, you can explore the vibrant night market, where you’ll find unique handicrafts and delicious local street food. Prepare for an exciting adventure in Laos!
Upon arrival in Luang Prabang, you will be transferred to your hotel (standard check-in time is from 14:00). The remainder of the day is yours to unwind or begin exploring the ancient royal city at your own pace. Overnight stay in Luang Prabang with breakfast provided the following morning.
Begin your city tour with a visit to Wat Visoun, the oldest functioning temple in Luang Prabang, home to an impressive collection of gilded wooden Buddha statues from the 15th and 16th centuries. Next, explore Wat Xieng Thong, often regarded as the most stunning monastery in the city, followed by a visit to the National Museum, formerly the Royal Palace. Converted into a museum in 1975, some of the palace rooms remain as they were when last used by the royal family (closed on Tuesdays). You will also have the chance to visit Wat Mai afterward.
Later, you’ll journey from Luang Prabang to the breathtaking Kuang Si Waterfalls, where limestone formations create a beautiful natural landscape. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the clear pools or simply relax in the serene environment. On the way back, visit Ban Tha Pene, a traditional "Khmu" village, before returning to Luang Prabang. In the evening, you can explore the Talat Night Market (Hmong Market). Overnight in Luang Prabang.
In the morning, explore the bustling local market, which is most lively during the early hours. Afterwards, embark on a boat journey along the Mekong River, passing the dramatic limestone cliffs where the Mekong and Nam Ou rivers converge. Your destination is the Pak Ou caves, famed for their unique collection of Buddha statues in various forms and sizes.
As you continue, stop by Ban Xang Hai village, well-known for producing Lao Lao, the traditional rice whisky. Next, visit Ban Muang Keo, where you can observe silk weaving and the crafting of rice schnapps. You'll also explore Ban Xang Khong, a weaving village renowned for its handmade cotton, silk, and mulberry paper production.
Back in Luang Prabang, ascend the 100-meter-high Phou Si Hill, located in the heart of the city. At the summit, visit the small temple complex and enjoy panoramic views of the city and the river below. Overnight in Luang Prabang.
In the morning, embark on a scenic drive along mountain roads, offering breathtaking views of forested peaks, lush valleys, and striking rock formations. The journey provides plenty of opportunities to pause for photos and visit local settlements of the mountain people. Upon reaching your destination, explore the "Plain of Jars," a mysterious collection of massive stone vessels. Some of these jars, whose purpose and origins remain unknown, stand over 3 meters tall and weigh up to 6 tons. This site is one of the most intriguing and captivating attractions in the country. Overnight in Xieng Khouang, with breakfast served the following morning.
For early risers, there is a unique experience at 5:30 am. Watch as monks clad in saffron robes leave their pagodas to receive alms from local residents. You can also participate by offering food to the monks in this heartwarming tradition.
In the morning, explore the Lao Sericulture silk farm, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the traditional art of mulberry silk production, known for being the finest quality of silk. Afterward, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Vientiane.
Vientiane, the capital of Laos, offers a relaxed yet captivating atmosphere, with tree-lined avenues, intriguing temples, and vibrant markets. Begin by visiting That Luang, a golden stupa and one of the country's most significant national symbols. Next, explore Wat Phra Keo, once a royal temple and now a museum showcasing some of the finest Buddhist sculptures. You’ll also visit the grand Wat Sisaket and Patuxai, which resembles the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. Afterward, visit a hospital dedicated to helping victims of mines and cluster bombs left over from the Vietnam War, with "cluster bombs" posing particular danger due to their toy-like appearance that attracts children. The afternoon is yours to spend at leisure.
In the early morning, take a flight from Vientiane to southern Laos, arriving in Pakse. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by your local guide before heading to the lush Bolaven Plateau, a fertile region known for its coffee and tea plantations. This area offers a glimpse into a lesser-seen side of Laos, with its cooler climate and abundance of waterfalls. Among them, you will visit the stunning Tad Fane waterfall, the tallest in Champasak province.
In the morning, set off for Khong Island. On the way, take a ferry across the Mekong River near Champasak to visit the Wat Phou temple, nestled in the mountains. This impressive temple complex, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001, showcases some of the finest examples of Khmer architecture and predates Angkor Wat by 200 years. After lunch, continue to Ban Kiet Ngong, a small Laotian village, where you will enjoy an elephant ride (two people per elephant) and learn about these majestic animals and their care. In the afternoon, travel to Khong Island, the largest island on the southern Mekong and one of the most scenic spots in Laos.
In the morning, embark on a longtail boat excursion to explore the captivating Don Khone area, where you can see remnants from the French colonial period and the impressive Liphi waterfall, including the fast-flowing rapids known as the "Devil's Corridor." After returning to the mainland, you'll visit Ban Nakasang and then head to Khone Phapheng, the largest waterfall in Southeast Asia, often referred to as the "Niagara of the East." This stunning region near the Cambodian border is also renowned for its rich wildlife. Afterward, return to the mainland and explore the fishing village of Ban Nakasang before heading back to Pakse.
Today, it’s time to bid farewell to the serene environment as a vehicle will transfer you to the airport. Prepare for your return journey or continue to your next destination.