Day 1: Arrival In Vientiane ( , , )
Arrival in Vientiane, make your way to your accommodation in Vientiane.
Accommodation: hotel in Vientiane
Note:
Check-in at the hotel from 14:00
Airport pick up and pre-trip room can be provided as a supplement
Customer service available to contact if needed for information.
Day 2: Vientaine – Vang Vieng (B, ,)
Meeting point with the tour guide at the hotel lobby at 8:00am.
You will spend this day discovering Vientiane, the capital of Laos, has been deeply scarred by French colonisation, but, at the same time, has managed to preserve, loud and clear, its identity. Today you will explore the city's major points of interest, breathing in the preponderant European influence, which at times blurs until it disappears among temples and other buildings with a distinctly Oriental style;
- The Vat Sisaket temple: despite the strong Siamese influence, this complex has a unique architectural style. Thanks to its Thai origin, it was spared from destruction. Today, it is the largest and best preserved temple in the capital;
- The Vat PhraKeo Temple: built in 1565 to house the renowned Emerald Buddha, it was later rebuilt in 1942, identical to the original, in a lovely garden. Inside, finely carved panels and elegant colonnades can be admired, protected by the sloping roof typical of the style of northern Thailand and Laos itself;
- The Pha That Louang cloister: it was built around an imposing stupa saved from destruction during the looting by the Siamese army, but damaged by Ho raiders in 1873. Renovated by the French in 1930, it is still a symbol of the nation and a masterpiece of Laotian architecture, this structure representing both a religious and a royal symbol;
- The Patuxay Triumphal Arch, from the top of which you can admire breathtaking views of Vientiane;
In the afternoon, transfer by private car to Vang Vieng, arriving mid-afternoon.
You will climb up to the viewpoint and enjoy incredible sunset views of Vang Vieng's karst rock formations. After a short climb, it will be time to sit back and watch the changing colors in the sky as the sun sets. This is an ancient, scenic and breathtaking landscape, far removed from the hustle and bustle of the city below. As the sun sets, the local guide will lead you back from the viewpoint to enjoy the rest of the evening in charming Vang Vieng.
Meal included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Vang Vieng
Distance: Vientiane - Vang Vieng: 130 kilometres - 1.5 hours
Distance and duration of the hike: 0.6km - 30mins including ascent
Elevation gain: +131m
Day 3: Vang Vieng – Khmu Village (B,L,)
Meeting point with the tour guide at the hotel lobby at 9:00am.
Head out of town by tuk-tuk and start a leisurely journey down the Nam Song River, floating alongside the stunning karst limestone formations for which Vang Vieng is so famous. Arrive shortly after in a local riverside village where you will spend the day seeing how the Khmu ethnic group live.
To begin, you will visit one of the elderly villagers who works as a blacksmith and who uses techniques that have been passed down through the generations. Watch and learn how he makes knives to earn an income, but make sure to pay attention as it will be your turn next!
Then, continue to the home of one of the Khmu families where you will be invited to join them for a typical Khmu lunch in their house or garden. Learn about their culture and the animistic traditions that are practiced not only by the Khmu but also by many of the other ethnic minorities in Laos. After spending some time chatting with the family, move on to learn how they make the local rice wine, known in Lao as "Lao Hai".
Later in the afternoon, follow your guide through the rice paddies to visit a cave on the other side of the river, passing farmers working in their fields. On the way, take a break in one of the local rice-farm huts and try some of the rice wine that you learned how to make earlier, while discussing in more detail the importance of agriculture in Laos.
Once back in the village, say goodbye to the friendly locals and head back to Vang Vieng after your full day of cultural immersion.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Vang Vieng
Distance of the transfer (one way): Approximately 15 kilometers - 30 minutes
Duration of the full activity: approximately 7-8 hours (pick-up time 09:00 / drop-off time 16:30)
Day 4: Vang Vieng – Train To Luang Prabang (B,–,–)
In the morning, the driver will pick you up and transfer you to Vang Vieng station for the train to Luang Prabang. (Suggested train C98 ETD Vang Vieng at 08:26, ETA Luang Prabang at 09:16am, times are subject to change. The guide wont’ be in the train with the group). Meet your guide at the train station in Luang Prabang and start the visit.
The city of Luang Prabang is one of the most beautiful cities in Southeast Asia, with its perfect location at the meeting point of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers and at the foot of a centuries-old mountain range. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site on 1995 and it is recognized for its well-preserved townscape that blends traditional Lao and European colonial architecture.
During the city tour yow will visit its most iconic and culturally rich sites to learn about the city's history, architecture, and culture.
You will begin at the Royal Palace, which now houses the National Museum, with a huge collection of precious objects that belonged to the royal family and a wide range of statuettes found in temples in the region. Here you can admire the Phrabang Buddha, considered the most sacred artefact in Laos and which gave the city its name.
Continue with a stop at the ancient Heuan Chan House, a traditional house dating back more than 100 years. This building is located on the peninsula of the city of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995, and today it has been transformed into a museum, where you can learn about the special features of Laotian/French colonial architecture.
You will then visit Vat Xieng Thong, the temple of the Royal City, a complex of shrines and sacred temples, displaying some of the most beautiful traditional Laotian art, and arguably the most beautiful site in Luang Prabang.
In the afternoon, we will stop at the Weaving Craft Center at Ock Pop Tock.
The Ock Pop Tok Craft Weaving Center is a must-visit destination if you are intrigued by local crafts. At the center you will be lucky enough to discover the secrets of fine and renowned local textiles. Afterwards, take time to enjoy the beautiful tropical garden that offers stunning views of the majestic Mekong River and mountains.
Meals included: Breakfast
Accommodation: In hotel
Luang Prabang train station - city: 12km/30mins
Vang Vieng train station - city: 5km/10mins
Note: You will need to show your passport along with your train ticket when entering the station and again on the train. Keep your train ticket as you will also need to show it to exit the station. There will be an airport-style security check when entering the station – dangerous and flammable items will be confiscated. Please do not take spray cans of deodorant, spray shampoos, knives, alcohol, flammable mosquito sprays, etc
Day 5: Luang Prabang – Hike To Kuang Sy Waterfalls (B,–,–)
In the early morning, you will travel with your guide to the temple to see the Tak Bath ceremony. During the ceremony, devoted residents of Luang Prabang kneel on the sidewalk, bearing food in their hands, which they offer to the monks as they walk by clad in their saffron-orange robes. Be drawn into this culturally significant moment, as it takes place in a peaceful and respectful manner, with no words exchanged between the monks and the inhabitants making the offerings. After this humbling experience, your guide will take you to a local market, a very animated place to be in the morning, to say the least. After this, you can return to your hotel for your breakfast at the hotel.
Duration: Around 2h 30min
Notes:
Guests will travel to see Tak Bat ceremony from around 05:30 to 06:30
As a guest attending this tradition, you are recommended not to wear revealing
clothing. Please do not cross the monk’s path and take photos from a distance to show
your respect. Please also maintain a quiet atmosphere.
After a drive from Luang Prabang to Ban Nong Heo Village, you will have some time to discover the charming Khmu village, with its traditional houses, water buffaloes and ducks wandering freely around, as well as farmers and blacksmiths going about their daily tasks. Then your local guide will take you for quite an easy hike in the countryside, passing through hill forests and plantations, with nice viewpoints on the way. You can even ask your guide to pick some fresh sugar cane directly from the field to taste the refreshing juice! After a walk in the beautiful natural environment, you will arrive at Ban Thapene, the village that lies at the entrance to the Kuang Sy Waterfalls.
Distance and duration of the hike: 4 kilometers - 1h 30min
Level: 1
Transportation: From Luang Prabang to Ban Nong Heo: 20 kilometers - 50 minutes
In the afternoon you will visit a village famous for the production and art of Sa paper. Sa paper is a traditional handmade paper in Laos using the bark of the mulberry tree, known locally as “sa.” This centuries-old technique, still practiced in some villages near Luang Prabang, reflects the deep connection between Lao culture and sustainable natural resources.
Return to hotel.
Meals included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Luang Prabang
Day 6: Luang Prabang – Full Immersion At The Pak Ou Village (B,L, )
Your day begins with a drive through the Luang Prabang countryside, arriving at a charming village, Ban Muang Keo, where you'll delve into the art of traditional flower arrangement. Learn the techniques and symbolism behind creating beautiful floral offerings to the monk, a significant part of Lao culture. Next, visit a serene local temple, immersing yourself in the spiritual atmosphere and receiving a monk blessing. Continue your cultural immersion with a visit to a village, where you can interact with friendly locals and get a glimpse into their daily life.
Enjoy a delightful aperitif on a picturesque beach, savoring local flavors while taking in the tranquil beauty of the Mekong River. Afterward, indulge in a delicious lunch featuring traditional Lao cuisine, followed by a cup of locally grown coffee. Finally, you will take a 30 minutes easy hike in the forest, that would be the perfect occasion to reach the caves by a secret and quite unique entrance. Once at the caves, marvel at the thousands of Buddha statues nestled within these two caverns and learn about the history and religious significance of this remarkable site. Reflect on your day's cultural encounters before enjoying a leisurely boat trip back to Luang Prabang, taking in the beauty of the Mekong River and its surroundings as you gently cruise downstream (boat cruise approximately 2 hours).
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, coffee/tea, soft drink/beer, snacks
Accommodation: Hotel in Luang Prabang
Duration: Approximately 7 hours
Distances:
Luang Prabang – Ban Pak Ou: 30 kilometers – 1 hour by car
Pak Ou Caves – Luang Prabang: 30 kilometers – 2 hours by boat
Day 7: Luang Prabang – Siem Reap (B,–,–)
This morning, discover Luang Prabang at your own pace. Then check-out and travel to Luang Prabang airport for the flight to Siem Reap.
Suggested flights:
QV513 LPQ-PKZ-SAI 08:30-11:50 (1 stop in Pakse) on tue/Thur/Sat ( No QV513 operated From 01Jun until 01-Oct) or VN930 LPQ-SAI 1500-1625 weekly except Tue/Sun ( No VN931 operated From 05-May until 30-Sep)
Upon arrival in Siem Reap, being welcomed by a Cambodian driver then travel to your hotel for check in.
Meals included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Siem Reap.
Note: Hotel standard check-in time: 14:00 and check-out time: 12:00
Day 8: Angkor Thom – Angkor Wat – Ta Prohm (B,L, )
Meeting with the guide at 8:00 at the hotel lobby.
This morning, you will travel on a road flanked by huge century-old trees before all of a sudden, a majestic stone doorway will appear as you enter Angkor Thom, “the big city”. Magically emerging from within, admire the massive smiling faces of the Bayon temple carved in stone. Built around the 12th and 13th centuries, this amazing edifice is surrounded by 54 towers, each of them adorned with 4 faces. After visiting Bayon you will travel to the Baphuon, a temple mountain built in the 11th century, whose restoration, led by French architects ended not so long ago. Then, walk along the Terrace of the Elephants, which with its length of 350 meters was used for royal audiences and public ceremonies. Continue your visit at the Terrace of the Leper King, built in the 12th century and adorned with magnificent Apsara sculptures.
In the afternoon, visit the most famous temple: Angkor Wat. Starting at the central avenue, you will soon realize just how huge it is. This wonderous architectural achievement, will impress you not just by its structural elements but also by its artistic detail. Finish the day by visiting Ta Prohm, a temple which seems almost consumed by the tropical nature that surrounds it.
Travel back to your hotel for a free evening. Possible optional experience to book.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Siem Reap
Level: 1
Distance & duration of hiking: 14 kilometers – 3 hours (full day including the visits)
Total elevation gain: + 150 meters / - 120 meters
Terrain: mainly jungle trails, through forest
Transportation: full day vehicle support - 8 kilometers – 15 minutes (From Hotel to starting point) / 10 kilometers – 20 minutes (From ending point to hotel)
Day 9: Siem Reap – Hiking At Phnom Kulen (B,L, )
In the morning, around 7:00, travel from Siem Reap to Phnom Kulen, the largest forested area in the Siem Reap province. After only 5 kilometers of driving, you will already be in the heart of the Cambodian countryside, passing through charming villages, endless rice fields, and sugar palm trees. Welcome to the wilds of Cambodia!
Upon arriving at the National Park checkpoint, located at the foot of Kulen Mountain, you'll stop you’ll meet the local ranger who will accompany you over the course of the day trek. After a short briefing, head out into the jungle, first coming upon The River of 1000 Lingas. Here, it's hard not to marvel at the carvings located inside the river, dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva, not to mention the golden Reclining Buddha, situated at Preah Ang Thom. Then embark on a single trail plunging into the deep forest and indulge in the nature. Your hike ends at the Phnom Kulen Waterfall, and, if you’d like, refresh yourself with a nice swim. Lunch nearby the waterfall. Transfer back to Siem Reap in the afternoon.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch (Picnic Lunch on Spot)
Accommodation: Hotel in Siem Reap
Level: 2
Distance & duration of hiking: 12 kilometers – 3 hours (Excluding site visits)
Total Elevation Gain: + 253 meters / – 212 meters
Starting point / Ending point elevation: + 322 meters / + 372 meters
Terrain: mainly jungle trails, through forest
Transportation: 50 kilometers – 1 hour 30 minutes (From hotel to starting point)
Note:
It is best to avoid weekends and public holidays to enjoy the waterfalls without the crowds.
The latest departure time from the hotel in Siem Reap is 08:00
Day 10: Siem Reap – Visit A Floating Village On The Tonlé Sap Lake (B, , )
Your journey starts in the morning, departure from Siem Reap to Kompong Khleang. From Kompong Kleang, you will board a local boat led by a captain from the village. The craft will criss-cross Tonlé Sap at a leisurely pace, giving you the opportunity to observe some of the small floating villages.
The small local boat is equipped with an engine, which allows you to move easily from the village and along the various canals leading to the Great Lake. Once you reach the end of the canal, you will realize the immensity of this lake, where the horizon stretches as far as the eye can see. During the dry season, a walk to meet the locals is offered before you set out for the cruise.
Back to Siem Reap in the early afternoon and free time at leisure.
Meals included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Siem Reap
Distance: Siem Reap / Kompong Khleang - 52 kilometers (1 hour 30 minute drive), each
Way
Note: From the 15th of February, due to low water levels, the boat trip cannot be operated with big boats from 10 pax up, only small boats are available (1-9 pax). So for groups from 10 pax up we will do the boat trip at Chong Kneas instead
Day 11: Siem Reap Departure (B, , )
Morning at leisure. At a good time, travel to the airport on your own for the departure flight.
Meals included: Breakfast
Room is at your disposal until 12:00 only
