Luang Prabang – Pakbeng – Oudomxay – Vang Vieng – Ban Tha Heua – Vientiane
Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Northern Laos, where timeless traditions and breathtaking landscapes await. This unforgettable tour takes you from the UNESCO World Heritage city of Luang Prabang, with its golden temples and vibrant night market, to the tranquil riverside town of Pakbeng. Continue your adventure to Oudomxay, nestled among lush mountains and rich ethnic cultures, before heading to the stunning karst scenery of Vang Vieng. Experience the peaceful charm of Ban Tha Heua, a lakeside village near Nam Ngum Lake, offering a true taste of Laotian countryside life. Finally, conclude your journey in the capital city Vientiane, where French colonial architecture meets ancient Buddhist heritage.
DAY 1: Arrival in Luang Prabang (NONE)
On arrival at the Luang Prabang airport, you will be met and transferred to check in the hotel. Situated in the centre of northern Laos, Luang Prabang is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its outstanding cultural, historic and architectural values and its harmonious relationship between the natural and built environment.
There is no activities planned for today, so you may stroll around for the first impression of this ancient city.
Overnight at hotel in Luang Prabang
Distance:
⦁ Luang Prabang Airport – Luang Prabang Central: 2,5 miles 10 minutes driving transfer
DAY 2: LUANG PRABANG – CITY TOUR (B/-/-)
Pick up: 08:30AM
After breakfast, our guide will take you on an in-depth walking tour of the city.
The walk is oriented towards the lesser-known parts of the town including charming lanes showing the more traditional atmosphere of the heritage town.
Along the way, we will see the four different types of buildings categorized by UNESCO. The first one is the traditional Laos house which is made from tropical hardwood or bamboo and built on stilts.The second is a half wood and half cement house built after the arrival of the French. The third is the traditional French colonial building that are similar to those found in Vietnam and Cambodia. The last form of architecture you will see is the old Chinese shop houses that were built to be used for both commercial and residential purposes.
In the afternoon, we will visit some famous attractions inside city center including the oldest temple of Wat Sene and the magnificent Wat Xiengthong with its roofs sweeping low to the ground, which represents classical Laotian architecture.
Next, we will visit Heuan Chan, a 19th-century aristocratic mansion that offers a glimpse into Lao culture through traditional ceremonies, textiles, and family life. This restored mansion stands as a testament to Lao heritage, featuring enriching exhibitions and a documentary on Laos’ customs. After the visit, we’ll have the opportunity to taste authentic Lao coffee or tea, providing a true taste of Laos.
We then continue with a visit to the Royal Palace Museum, which hosts a range of interesting artifacts. From there, we walk to the nearby Wat Mai, which is one of Luang Prabang’s largest and most richly decorated temples.
Late afternoon, we climb up to the top of Mount Phousi for an enjoyable exploration of the sacred, gilded stupa as well as a panoramic sunset view of the city and the Mekong River. The tour ends after a visit to the famous Night Market, where you can find a lovely selection of handmade textiles made by local and hilltribe people surrounding Luang Prabang
Overnight at hotel in Luang Prabang
Distance:
⦁ Luang Prabang Central – Wat Xiengthong: 1,5 miles 5 minute driving transfer
DAY 3: MORNING ALMS GIVING – BUFFALO FARM – KUANG SI WATERFALL – TREASURE HUNT TOUR AT OCK POP TOCK (B/-/-)
Pick-up: 05:30AM – 06:30AM depending on season . Wake up as the sun rises, we will prepare to join the most sacred tradition of Laos, the daily morning alms giving, which dates to the 14th century. More than 200 Buddhist monks depart from various temple to gather their daily meal from the faithful residents sitting quietly on the streets.
We then visit the temporary morning market near the former Royal Palace. Just set on the ground, the local people come here to barter their day’s catch from rice, to vegetable, to fish, or chicken.
After breakfast at the hotel, transfer the Buffalo Dairy Farm on the way to Kuang Si waterfalls, which offers the fun and interesting experience for the kids. We arrive at the beautiful Kuang Si, which is the biggest waterfall in the Luang Prabang area with three tiers leading to a 50-metre drop into spectacular azure pools before flowing downstream. The pools also make great swimming holes and are very popular with both tourists and locals. There is also the chance to walk to the nearby village of Ban Thapene, and explore the hidden waterfalls, which is rarely visited by other tourists. If you wish, take a short visit to the Bear Rescue Center, which houses a couple of dozen animals rescued from the hands of poachers and traffickers.
On the way back to Luang Prabang, we will take a short visit to the Ock Pop Tock Living Craft Center, set serenely close to the Mekong, this beautiful, traditionally styled workshop, where weavers, spinners and batik makers produce top-quality fabrics, offers free tours every half-hour. Here, you will join a Treasure Hunt Tour. This is a self-guided treasure hunt that takes the visitor around the Living Crafts Centre. There are 6 clues to find the treasure for kids and 10 for adults. Each participant is given a map of the Living Crafts Centre. Through riddles and clues, your guests will discover Laos through textiles. This fun and interactive treasure hunt tour is perfect for families.
Transfer back to your hotel late afternoon.
Overnight at hotel in Luang Prabang
Distance:
⦁ Luang Prabang Central – Kuang Si: 20 miles 30 minute driving transfer
⦁ Kuang Si – Ock Top Tock Living Craft: 18 miles 30 minute driving transfer
DAY 4: LUANG PRABANG – NAHM DONG PARK – HILLSIDE RESORT (B/L/-)
After departing at 8:30 am from your hotel, transfer to Nahm Dong park, which locates in Ban Xiengmouk, 10Km from city center. Arriving at the park, we will have a short welcome by the park manager before joining the morning activities here. We will first start with the Zipline flying over the jungle and the waterfalls admiring the amazing evergreen scenery. The zipline will take about 1 hour.
Then we will walk back via the jungle trail crossing some flying bridges, small streams, and clear natural pools, where you can take a refresh splash if you wish so. The picnic lunch will be served at the viewpoint where you can spread your view over the region, including the view of mount Phousi in the city center. You can either spend the rest of the afternoon stroll around the park, relax by one of the huts at the camp, or enjoy the fresh cool clear natural pools. Then walk to Hillside Resort to spend the night.
Note: Zipline in 1 hour, trekking min 1 hour – max 3 hours depending on the route that you choose.
Overnight at hotel in Luang Prabang
Distance:
⦁ Luang Prabang Central – Nahm Dong Park: 5,6 miles 20 minute driving transfer
DAY 5: CHATEAU ORIENTALE – TREK THE GHOST VALLEY (B/L/-)
Pick-up: 08:30AM.
In the morning, transfer to Chateau Orientale. Then begin your adventure with a convenient pick-up at your hotel, followed by a scenic 1-hour transfer in our comfortable, air-conditioned minibus. Arrive at the lush tropical gardens of “Chateau Orientale”, where you’ll be welcomed by the vibrant colors and fragrant scents of the surrounding flora. Enjoy a refreshing coffee or tea as you soak in the serene atmosphere. Your adventure begins with a boat ride across the tranquil Nam Khan River, setting the stage for an exciting trek. Embark on a journey through slightly hilly, breathtaking scenery, visiting a traditional Khmu village and the hidden gem of Tad Kuang Son waterfall along the way.
Continue your trek towards the Ghost Valley, where you’ll be captivated by the towering limestone cliffs that rise dramatically around you. Explore the fascinating geological site of the Ghost Valley, marveling at the stunning limestone formations and the “Ghost Cave”, a cave formed hundreds of millions of years ago that once served as a shelter for the village community.
Pause for a picnic lunch, enjoying your meal either within the cool, mysterious interior of the cave or atop the hill with panoramic views. After lunch, trek back through the picturesque landscape to your starting point at the “Chateau Orientale” Resort.
Overnight at hotel in Luang Prabang
Distance:
⦁ Luang Prabang Central – Nam Khan River: 9,5 miles 20 minute driving transfer
DAY 6: CHATEAU ORIENTALE – NAM KHAN ECOLODGE (B/L/D)
Pick up: 08:30AM
Our driver will pick you up and transfer you to the charming Namkhan Ecolodge. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by a guide from the lodge who will take you on a tour of the grounds. Discover the secrets of Namkhan’s origins as you wander through the lush garden brimming with fruits and vegetables, and learn about our greenhouse’s agricultural practices. Your journey concludes with a tasting of our farm’s homemade delights.
Next, immerse yourself in pure bliss with a rejuvenating 90-minute spa treatment, where you can choose between two exquisite options: Lao Traditional Massage or Aroma Massage. Then you can choose 1 option activity (tubing, farm tour, bamboo weaving).
You will have the opportunity to enjoy your private island cabana by the Nam Khan River. Bask in the serenity of the riverside setting, surrounded by lush greenery and the gentle flow of the water. We’ll offer a complimentary cocktail or mocktail, made with fresh, local ingredients.
Overnight at hotel in Namkhan Ecolodge.
Distance:
⦁ Luang Prabang Central – Nam Khan Ecolodge: 3,5 miles 10 minutes driving transfer
DAY 7: NAMKHAN ECOLODGE – PAK OU CAVES – MEKONG ELEPHANT PARK (SHOMPOO CRUISE) (B/L/D)
Pick up: 06:30 AM
In the morning, transfer to the boat pier. The boat leaves Luang Prabang at 7:00am for upstream the Mekong to Pakbeng.
In the morning, we will stop to visit Pak Ou Caves (Tham Ting) and its over two thousand Buddha statues. It is one of the most important Pilgrimage places for lao people. After the visit, our English-speaking guide will organize a small lecture and will explain the different ethnicities here in Laos. Lao traditional Lunch set is served on board.
In the afternoon, relax on board and enjoy the natural sceneries that offers the Mekong River. On arrival in Pakbeng, transfer by boat to the Mekong Elephant Park. Settle into your bungalow.
17:30: Introduction and snack with the matriarch Mae Kham. Mae Kham will be your neighbor throughout your stay with us. She typically sleeps from 11 pm to 2 am and spends the rest of the night feeding, which is why she has a spacious night enclosure. Additionally, as Mae Kham is aging and losing her teeth, she requires an easy-to-chew supplement several times a day. Visitors will have the opportunity to observe her enjoying her morning and end-of-day snacks.
19:00: Dinner at the restaurant and an overnight stay.
Overnight at hotel in Pakbeng
Distance:
⦁ Luang Prabang Central – Pak Ou Caves: 20 miles 35 minutes driving transfer
⦁ Pak Ou Caves – Mekong Elephant Park: 150 miles 03 hour driving transfer
DAY 8: MEKONG ELEPHANT PARK (B/L/D)
Pick-up: 08:30AM
After breakfast, depart for Mekong Elephant Park. Upon arrival, your guide will commence by introducing the team, providing insights into the sanctuary’s mission and initiatives for animal welfare. A detailed presentation about our elephants follows, delving into their individual stories, family connections, and the special bonds they share with their mahouts. Enter the pristine primary forest to encounter elephants in their natural habitat. At Mekong Elephant Park, physical interactions between visitors and elephants are not allowed. We encourage passive observation, acknowledging that we are guests in their world, respecting their environment and allowing them to be.
Follow your guide along natural trails created by the elephants, receiving pedagogical and educational insights. Witness the joy of the herd gathering, interacting, and consuming their natural food. Experience pure fun as elephants playfully toss and roll in the water. Be understanding if they choose not to take a dip, as it is entirely up to them to decide whether they need to cool off.
Indulge in a delightful Lao Set Menu at the Mekong Elephant Park restaurant, with ingredients primarily sourced from our botanical garden (special vegetarian, vegan, or dietary menus can be prepared with prior notice).
In the afternoon, your guide will provide instructions for the day’s activities, which can include making vitamin balls, picking fruits and vegetables for the elephants, or trekking the surroundings while admiring the scenic views of the Mekong. Take a leisurely stroll through the compound and meet our skilled craftsmen, including Mr. Kam, the blacksmith, Ms. Mee, the weaver, and Mr. Mong, the bamboo specialist. Their expertise is showcased in unique handicrafts, each with its own story, and visitors may even choose to bring some home.
Observe the elephants in their leisure area and witness how each elephant contributes to the herd. Our mahouts perform regular check-ups to ensure the elephants’ well-being. Each elephant undergoes a vet check training once a week, focusing on routine examinations of their teeth, eyes, foot soles, ears, and other vital aspects of their health. Visitors will learn that manipulating parts of the elephants’ bodies is essential for emergency vet checks, ensuring that the animals remain calm and cooperative during medical examinations. Back to the bungalow and time for snack with Mae Kham before having dinner at the restaurant.
Overnight at hotel in Pakbeng
DAY 9: MEKONG ELEPHANT PARK – PAKBENG (B/-/D)
07:00: Have breakfast at the restaurant.
07:30: Bid farewell to the elephants and transfer by boat back to Pakbeng on the opposite bank.
You are free for the rest of the day.
Overnight at hotel in Pakbeng.
Distance:
⦁ Mekong Elephant Park – Pakbeng: 2 miles 10 minutes driving transfer
DAY 11: NAMKAT EXPERIENCE(B/L/-)
Pick-up: 08:30AM
After having breakfast, we will be transported to Namkat Waterfall by the resort’s car, which is approximately 5 kilometers away. Upon our arrival, our adventure begins with a jungle trek of about 1.5 kilometers, leading us through the lush wilderness to encounter a majestic giant tree. Afterward, we’ll return to the car and continue for approximately 500 meters until we reach the entrance of the jungle.
From there, our journey continues with another trek through the jungle, where we will traverse a series of 13 sky bridges over a distance of approximately 1 kilometer. This thrilling experience will allow us to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of the area.
Following our jungle exploration, we will have plenty of time to relax and enjoy a picnic lunch at the picturesque Namkat Waterfall. In the afternoon, you can choose to unwind by the waterfall or venture out to explore the surrounding areas. As our day unfolds, we will retrace our steps along a different route, walking back to the entrance before taking the car back to the resort.
Overnight at hotel in Namkat.
DAY 12: NAMKAT – TRAIN TO VANG VIENG (B/-/-)
Pick-up: 08:30AM
In the morning, you are free before transferring to the train station to take the train to Vang Vieng.
On arrival in Vang Vieng, transfer to your hotel. Free for the rest of the day.
Overnight at hotel in Vang Vieng.
Distance:
⦁ Namkat Yorla Pa Resort – Vang Vieng: 240 miles 6 hour driving transfer
DAY 13: VANG VIENG – BAN THA HUEA(B/-/-)
Pick-up: 08:30AM
Today, we embark on a full day of adventure, immersing ourselves in the natural beauty of Vang Vieng. Our first stop is Tham Jang, a renowned cave that served as a refuge for local residents during the Chinese invasion two centuries ago. Next, we’ll visit Tham Nangfa, also known as Angel Cave. This cave boasts vast limestone formations and breathtaking stalactites in unique configurations. The enchanting beauty of Angel Cave makes it a perfect spot for photography and quiet contemplation. After exploring these magnificent caves, we’ll head to Blue Lagoon 3, a tranquil spot ideal for relaxation and cooling off. Surrounded by lush greenery and clear blue waters, Blue Lagoon 3 offers a refreshing escape where you can swim, relax, and enjoy the serene environment.
Optional tour: visit the summit of Pha Namxay, where you can enjoy a stunning sunset over the town of Vang Vieng and its surrounding area. This hike requires a reasonable level of physical fitness.
Then transfer to Ban Tha Heua.
Overnight at hotel in Ban Tha Heua
Distance:
⦁ Tham Jang – Blue Lagoon 3: 12 miles 25 minutes driving transfer
DAY 14: BAN THA HEUA WALKING – VIENTIANE (B/-/-)
Pick up: 08:30AM
Embark from the Resort and immerse yourself in the scenic life along the Nam Ngum banks. Explore the diverse local fishing techniques, traditional fishing nets, and the indigenous dried fish preservation method as you paddle among the numerous islands. Dock at Houy Pa Mom village, where you can relax and partake in an in-house tea/coffee break with a local family. Witness a captivating demonstration of hand-weaving techniques. Upon returning to your kayak, make your way back to the Sanctuary Nam Ngum Beach Resort, concluding your enriching journey.
Then we will transfer to Vientiane. Along the way, visit a local market, where various hill tribes come to trade goods and buy provisions.
Overnight at hotel in Vientiane.
Distance:
⦁ Nam Ngum Beach Resort – Vientiane: 77 miles 3 hour driving transfer
DAY 15: VIENTIANE (B/-/-)
Pick-up: 08:30AM
In the morning, we will first visit Wat Si Muang, which is very famous for its supernatural power.
After that drive to Buddha Park which takes around 45 minutes away. Also known as Xieng Khuan, this unusual park is filled with over 200 Buddhist and Hindu statues.
Returning to town, visit COPE, an association working to help landmine victims. A visit to the center provides in-depth information about the history of the American/Vietnam war and the lasting impact of unexploded ordinances (UXO) in the area and the efforts underway to clear them.
Start the afternoon with a visit to That Luang, the holiest site in Laos. Constructed by King Setthathirat in the 16th century, the temple is resplendent as the sun is shines upon its towering golden spire.
Then, enjoy a panoramic view over the city as you climb the stairs to the top of Patuxay, Vientiane’s own “Arc de Triomphe”.
Continue down Lane Xang Avenue the serene Wat Sisaket, the only temple left intact after the Siamese (Thai) invasion in 1828. Continue on to the nearby Wat Phra Keo. Used as a religious museum, Wat Phra Keo displays a collection of both Lao and Khmer works of art. End your tour of the capital along the banks of the Mekong River as the sun begins to set. Stroll along the river, stop to enjoy a cold drink, or sample a snack from one of the many local food stalls.
Optional tour: You can also visit Sinouk Coffee Pavilion to discover the Lao coffee, stroll around the mini coffee gallery, view the in-house coffee roaster and try a cup of delicious and unique coffee or tea. Discuss with our guide about this. Entrance fee and extra coffee/drinks are payable on spot.
Overnight at hotel in Vientiane.
Distance:
⦁ Vietiane – Wat Si Muang: 2 miles 5 minutes driving transfer
⦁ COPE – Buddha Park: 15 miles 30 minutes driving transfer
DAY 16: VIENTIANE DEPARTURE(B/-/-)
Pick-up: 2.5 hours before the flight
You are free to stroll around the town for your own exploration before taking the departure flight.
Distance:
⦁ Vietiane Central – Vietiane Airport: 5,5 miles 15 minutes driving transfer
HOME SWEET HOME!
Included / Excluded
To help you plan your trip, we have put together a list of what's included and what's not included in your tour package. This will give you a clear understanding of what to expect and help you make any necessary arrangements before your journey begins.
- Hotel Accommodation with daily breakfast (shared in twin/ double room)
- Experience English speaking tour manager on tour
- Private transfer and transportation on tour
- Meals are mentioned on program (B: Breakfast, Br: Brunch, L: Lunch, D: Dinner)
- Entrance fees are mentioned on the itinerary
- Daily mineral water (2 bottles/ pax/ tour day)
- All flights with tax
- Visa Approval Letter and Visa Stamping fee at arrival counter
- Travel Insurance
- Early check in or late check out
- Drinks and Beverages
-
Surcharge 20% for Public Holidays:
o New Year: 31 December 2024 – 02 January 2025 (inclusive)
o Vietnamese New Year: 28 Januray – 02 February (inclusive)
o Unification Day and May Day: 28 April – 03 May 2025 (inclusive)
o National Day: 28 August – 04 Sep 2025 (inclusive)
o Christmas: 23 – 25 December 2025 (inclusive - TIPPING for local guide, cruise team, tour manager and driver (compulsory)
- All other services are not mentioned on Inclusions
Tour Map
This comprehensive map is designed to guide you through an exciting journey filled with remarkable destinations and captivating experiences.
