LUANG PRABANG – PAKBENG – OUDOMXAY – NONG KHIAW – MUANG NGOI – LUANG PRABANG – VANG VIENG – VIENTIANE – PAKSE – BOLAVEN PLATEAU – WAT PHOU – 4000 ISLANDS – KHONE PHAPHAENG – PAKSE – CHONGMEK – UBON RATCHATHANI
Embark on a captivating journey through Southern Laos, where pristine nature and cultural treasures await. Begin in the ancient town of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its golden temples and colonial charm. Discover the noble work of elephant conservation, explore the dramatic karst landscapes of Vang Vieng, and relax by the tranquil waters of Ban Thaheua. Continue to Vientiane’s laid-back capital vibe before venturing deep into the hidden wonders of Konglor Cave. From the colonial streets of Thakhek and Savannakhet to the lush waterfalls and coffee plantations of the Bolaven Plateau, every stop reveals a new facet of Laos’ beauty. End your adventure among the 4000 Islands and the majestic Khone Phapheng Waterfall, before crossing into Thailand via Pakse and Ubon Ratchathani. This unforgettable journey offers a harmonious blend of nature, heritage, and adventure.
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:
DAY 2: ANCIENT CITY – KUANG SI WATERFALL (B/-/-)
Pick up: 08: 30 AM
After breakfast, our day begins with a visit to the Royal Palace Museum, home to an array of captivating artifacts. Next on our itinerary is the stunning Wat Xiengthong, showcasing the elegant sweep of classical Laotian architecture in its low-slung roofs. We then journey to the breathtaking Kuang Si Waterfall, where you can indulge in a refreshing swim in the pools or explore the forest trails. Spend the rest of the afternoon at your leisure, enjoying the serene beauty of the waterfalls.
Optionally, we can also observe Asiatic bears up close at the Bear Rescue Centre during a jungle walk to the waterfall.
Returning to town, we make a brief stop at the Ock Pop Tock Living Craft Center, nestled peacefully by the Mekong River. Here, artisans craft high-quality fabrics using traditional techniques. You're encouraged to enhance your experience with a complimentary audio guide detailing the center's significance in Lao culture and history.
As we transfer back to Luang Prabang, we ascend the 329 steps to the summit of Phousi Hill for a breathtaking sunset vista overlooking the city and the shimmering Mekong River below.
Our tour concludes with a visit to the renowned Night Market, where you can peruse a delightful array of handmade textiles crafted by local artisans and hilltribe communities.
Overnight at hotel in Luang Prabang
Distance:
Luang Prabang Central – Wat Xiengthong: 1,5 miles ~5 minutes driving transfer
DAY 3: MORNING ALMS GIVING – NAHM DONG PARK (B/L/-)
Pick up: 05:30AM – 06:30AM depending on seasons.
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 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. Free for the rest of the day for your own exploration.
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 minutes driving transfer
DAY 4: MEKONG RIVER – PAK OU CAVES – PAKBENG (SHOMPOO CRUISE) (B/L/D)
Pick up: 06:30AM
Departure day:
October to March: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.
April to September: Wednesday and Saturday
The boat leaves Luang Prabang at 7:00am for upstream the Mekong to Pakbeng. French Breakfast is served on board.
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.
The boat arrives in Pakbeng before the night.
Overnight at hotel in Pakbeng
Distance:
Luang Prabang Central – Pak Ou Caves: 20 miles ~ 35 minutes driving transfer
DAY 5: PAKBENG – MEKONG ELEPHANT CAMP (B/L/D)
Pick up: 08:30AM
Upon crossing the mighty Mekong, 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.
Upon bidding farewell at the sanctuary's premise, visitors will be transferred by boat back to Pakbeng.
Overnight at hotel in Pakbeng
Distance:
Pakbeng – Mekong Elephant Camp: 1.5 miles ~ 5 minutes driving transfer
DAY 6: PAKBENG – OUDOMXAY - NAMKAT YORLA PA (B/-/-)
Pick-up: 08:30AM
In the morning, transfer directly to Oudomxay, which is residence to a mixture of 23 ethnic minority groups. We make a few rest stops along the way, which gives you the opportunity to see the ethnic minority groups.
Upon arrival in Oudomxay, we will transfer directly to Namkat Yola Pa Resort, which locates 30Km from Oudomxay center. The resort is famous for its pure natural surround with the thick jungle, and especially the amazing Namkat Waterfalls.
Check in the hotel before starting exploring the Namkat waterfalls. During the 1 hour walk through the thick jungle, flying bridge, and small jungle trail, all we hear and sense is just the sound, and smell of nature.
We have ample time to refresh at the waterfalls before walking back to the entrance by a different way.
Overnight at hotel in Namkat Yorla Pa
Distance:
Pakbeng – Oudomxay: 72 miles ~1.5 hour driving transfer
Oudomxay – Namkat Yorla Pa: 98 miles ~ 2 hour driving transfer
DAY 7: NAMKAT YORLA PA – NONG KHIAW (B/-/-)
Pick-up: 08:30AM
After breakfast, we will say goodbye to Namkat Yola Pa Resort, and drive to Nong Khiaw, a small beautiful town along the Nam Ou River. The road conditions are are partly good and poor, so it may be a rough journey; however many villages dot the hillsides and the undulating terrain makes this an interesting journey.
We arrive in Nong Khiaw at around lunch time; transfer to your hotel.
After lunch (your own account), visit the historical cave of Phathok. The Nong Khiaw villagers used this cave as a war shelter during the “Secret War”, to shelter people from bombs dropped in the region. It is about a 30 minutes gentle walk from Nong Khiaw town and takes you through beautiful scenery. Learn more about a secret part of the Lao history and explore the historical caves with your guide. From the cave you will have a beautiful view of rice paddies and the valley. Walk back to Nong Khiaw along a small path through the rice paddies.
Enjoy the sunset over the river. There is a choice of local restaurants within walking distance.
Overnight at hotel in Nong Khiaw
Distance:
Namkat Yorla Pa – Nong Khiaw: 80 miles ~ 2 hour driving transfer
DAY 8: NONG KHIAW – TAD MORK – MUANG NGOI – NONG KHIAW (B/L/-)
Pick-up: 08:30AM
We begin at 8am and start off by boarding a local long boat and head off upstream through some fantastic landscape before making our first stop of the day at a small riverside village. Here we take some time to look around and if during a weekday pay the local school a visit to see the charming children as they take part in their classes.
After this we continue onwards to Tad Mork which is located close to the ethnic Khmu village of Ban Sop Kong, an hour trek from the river. At the waterfall we shall have time to swim and enjoy a picnic lunch.
After enjoying our time at the waterfall, we head back to the river where we will cruise further upstream to visit Muang Ngoy, which sits nestled amongst some amazing scenery! This small town has long been famous amongst backpackers yet remains truly unspoilt! If there is time we can stop for a drink at one of the riverside restaurants before the return journey down the river back to Nong Khiaw.
We will head off down the river through a narrow gorge where we stop at another small but fascinating village. The estimated arrival time in Nong Khiaw is around sunset
Overnight at hotel in Nong Khiaw
DAY 9: NONG KHIAW – PHOU PHA DAENG - LUANG PRABANG (B/-/-)
Pick-up: 08:30AM
We start from your hotel and take a short walk down over a bridge before beginning the hike up Phou Pha Deang mountain.
The trek will take us around two hours to reach the peak however once there you are rewarded with some truly stunning views! We spend some time at the peak of the mountain to take in these amazing views and rest for a while before starting the descent back down to Nong Khiaw. We will hop on the car and transfer back to Luang Prang in the afternoon.
Overnight at hotel in Luang Prabang
Distance:
Nong Khiaw – Phou Pha Daeng: 265 miles ~ 6.5 hour driving transfer
Phou Pha Daeng – Luang Prabang: 181 miles ~ 5 hour driving transfer
DAY 10: LUANG PRABANG – VANG VIENG (By train) (B/-/-)
Pick-up: 1.5 hour before the train
In the morning, take the train to Vang Vieng (1 hour train).
Upon arrival, 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. For those seeking an extra thrill, we recommend a zipline flight over the area, offering an exhilarating way to admire the stunning views from above (An additional charge of $19 per person applies for the zipline).
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.
Overnight at hotel in Vang Vieng
Distance:
Luang Prabang – Vang Vieng: 114 miles ~ 4 hour driving transfer
DAY 11: VANG VIENG – VIENTIANE (B/-/-)
Pick-up: 08:30AM
After breakfast, our songthaew driver will take you 14 km north to the amazing Tham Xang (Elephant Cave), located on the banks of the Nam Song River. This important Buddhist temple is named for its remarkable limestone formations resembling elephants.
Next, we head to the nearby Tham Hoi (Snail Cave), which winds deep into the mountains. We'll spend 45 minutes exploring its numerous long corridors and stunning limestone formations. We will also explore the Loop Cave, known for its impressive stalagmite formations, before continuing on to Tham Nam (Water Cave). At Tham Nam, a cool spring pool lies at the cave's mouth, making it a perfect spot for a refreshing swim. We'll tube through the water-filled cave, which is crystal clear during the dry season.
After this, we trek 2 km to the Hmong village of Phathao, passing through rice paddies and vegetable gardens. Upon arrival, transportation will take us back to Vang Vieng.
In the afternoon, we drive to Vientiane.
Overnight at hotel in Vientiane
Distance:
Vang Vieng - Vietiane : 80 miles ~ 2 hour driving transfer
DAY 12: VIENTIANE EXPLORATION – BUDDHA PARK (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 13: VIENTIANE – DONE XING XU (B/L/-)
Pick-up: 08:30AM
Begin your journey by heading to the serene Xing Xu Island, situated just beyond Vientiane. Upon reaching Ban Kaolieu, embark on a boat ride to the island, where you'll share the experience with local residents.
Upon your island arrival, take a leisurely stroll to a revered temple, renowned among locals for seeking auspicious numbers, often used for purchasing lottery tickets. Feel free to try your luck if you wish.
Afterward, explore the quaint village, home to approximately 200 inhabitants who tend to livestock, including pigs and goats. Continue your adventure by hopping on a tuk-tuk or a local tractor to tour the island, immersing yourself in a genuine sense of exploration.
Savor a delectable lunch at one of the island's local restaurants, relishing the authentic flavors of the region.
Following your meal, take ample time to relax and relish the picturesque surroundings before boarding the boat back to the mainland. Finally, your journey concludes with a comfortable transfer back to your hotel.
Overnight at hotel in Vientiane
Distance:
Vietiane – Xing Xu Island: 40 miles ~ 1 hour 50 minutes driving transfer
DAY 14: VIENTIANE – PAKSE – BOLAVEN PLATEAU (B/-/-)
Pick up: 08:30AM
Following breakfast, we board a flight to Pakse, the largest city in southern Laos. Upon arrival, we head east towards Pakse and onward to the Bolaven Plateau, renowned for its cooler climate due to its elevated position above the Mekong Valley.
Our journey includes a stop at the enchanting Tad Fan Waterfall, a picturesque twin cascade waterfall. If time allows, we'll also visit Tad Yeung, where you can enjoy a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear natural pools at the base of the waterfall. Exploring further, we'll visit the local villages of Ban Lak Sipchet, known for crafting iron knives, and Ban Lak Samsip, renowned for producing bamboo baskets.
Before reaching our final destination for the evening, we'll make a final stop at a coffee plantation, where you can discover the process behind the production of Laos' renowned coffee beans.
Overnight accommodation awaits us in the tranquil surroundings of the Bolaven Plateau.
Overnight at hotel in Bolaven Plateau
Distance:
Vientiane Central – Vientiane Airport: 5.2 miles ~ 15 minutes driving transfer
DAY 15: BOLAVEN PLATEAU – WAT PHOU – KHONG ISLAND (B/-/-)
Pick-up: 08:30AM
Following breakfast, venture to the vibrant Tha Teng ethnic minority food market. Then, embark on a journey to explore two captivating minority villages: Ban Bong Neua, an Alak village renowned for its sacrificial altar, and Ban Kokphung, a Katu village where coffins are traditionally stored beneath houses.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in history with a visit to Wat Phou, an ancient Khmer religious complex dating back to the 5th Century. Recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, Wat Phou is a breathtaking pre-Angkorian temple nestled amidst the picturesque rice fields and waterways of southern Laos. Constructed by the rulers of the Khmer empire prior to Angkor Wat, this temple once served as a pivotal economic and political hub, remaining today one of the most revered temples among the Lao people.
Following your exploration, journey to Done Khong, where the remainder of the day is yours to unwind or further explore the island's treasures. Spend the night on Done Khong Island, soaking in its tranquil ambiance.
Overnight at hotel in Khong Island
Distance:
Bolaven Plateau – Wat Phou: 22 miles ~ 45 minutes driving transfer
Wat Phou – Khong Island: 84 miles ~ 2 hour driving transfer
DAY 16: KHONG ISLAND – 4000 ISLANDS – KHONE ISLAND (B/-/-)
Pick-up: 08:30AM
Set off in the morning aboard a 1.5-hour-long tail boat to explore the expansive Mekong River at its broadest point, known affectionately as "Si Phan Done", where the receding waters during the dry season reveal countless islets.
Upon reaching our destination, delve into the quaint villages of Ban Khone, rich with relics from the French colonial era. Wander through streets lined with old colonial buildings and catch glimpses of the first Lao railway's remnants, including its vintage locomotive.
Continue your island exploration by Tuk Tuk, taking your time to visit the mesmerizing Liphi waterfall, a breathtaking cascade that marks the boundary between Laos and Cambodia, also referred to as the Samphamith. En route back, pay a visit to a local pagoda to gain insights into the spiritual customs of the region and admire the intricate architecture of the temple.
Conclude the day with a leisurely stroll through the village, immersing yourself in the daily life of the locals. For those inclined, bicycles are available for rent (at your own expense) to further explore the island at your own pace. Take a sunset ride around the island, soaking in the relaxed ambiance of Khone Island.
Retreat for the night, soaking in the serene surroundings of Khone Island.
Overnight at hotel in Khone Island.
DAY 17: KHONE ISLAND - KHONE PHAPHAENG WATERFALL – PAKSE (B/-/-)
Pick-up: 08:30AM
After breakfast, we'll head back to the mainland at the fishing village of Ban Nakasang and continue our journey further south to visit Khone Phapheng, known as the largest waterfall by volume in Southeast Asia. Situated near the Lao-Cambodian border, Khone Phapheng is a remarkable sight nestled within a wildlife-rich area, making it one of the most awe-inspiring destinations in Laos.
Following our visit to Khone Phapheng, we'll drive back to Pakse. Established by the French in 1905 as an administrative center, the capital of Champasak Province is a relatively modern town located at the confluence of the Mekong and Se Don rivers.
In the afternoon, our first stop will be at Ban Khoh, renowned for its stone carving expertise. From there, we'll take a leisurely stroll to the nearby Wat Chomphet, home to the largest sitting Buddha statue in Laos.
As the late afternoon approaches, we'll ascend to the top of Wat Phou Salao to admire the panoramic view over the town of Pakse and the surrounding area as darkness falls over the city.
Overnight at hotel in Pakse.
Distance:
Khone Island – Khone Phaphaeng: 22 miles ~30 minutes driving transfer
Khone Phaphaeng – Pakse: 95 miles ~ 1 hour driving transfer
DAY 18: PAKSE – UBON RATCHATHANI – DEPARTURE (B/-/-)
Pick-up: 5 hours before the flight.
After breakfast, we will transfer directly to Ubon Ratchathani (Thailand) via Chongmek Border to take the flight to Bangkok and connect to your departure flight back home.
Note:
+ Transfer time: 3 hours including border time.
+ From Pakse, you can also take the flight to Siem Reap, Ho Chi Minh City, Vientiane, Luang Prabang, or Bangkok
Distance:
Pakse – Ubon Ratchathani: 58 miles ~1.5 hour driving transfer
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.
