VIENTIANE – PHOU KHAO KHUAY – NAM PIEN YORLA PA – BAN THAHEUA – VANG VIENG – MUANG FEUANG – VIENTIANE
This short journey through central Laos offers a peaceful escape into nature and local life, without straying far from the capital. From Vientiane, venture into the green landscapes of Phou Khao Khuay National Park and enjoy outdoor activities at the forest retreat of Nam Pien Yorla Pa. Continue to Ban Thaheua, a quiet lakeside village perfect for relaxing or kayaking. In Vang Vieng, take in the region’s famous limestone scenery before spending time in the calm and authentic surroundings of Muang Feuang. This itinerary is ideal for travelers seeking soft adventure, fresh air, and a slower pace of travel.
DAY 1: VIENTIANE – PHOU KHAO KHUAY (-/L/D)Â
 An early morning departure at 7:30am for the National Park at Phou Khao Khuay, the closest national protected area to Vientiane.Â
You will discover the National Park under the expert guidance of our local guide who will tell you all about the different plants and wildlife.
You arrive in the village of Ban Hatkhay at around 9:30am where you will be joined by two local guides with your freshly made Lao picnic.Â
The Orchid Trek begins at Pha Say with its stunning view across a 40m deep gorge and the dense jungle.Â
You follow narrow, shaded trails and discover the different types of forest in the park: semi-deciduous, tropical and bamboo – extraordinary, unspoilt habitats.Â
You have the chance to learn about the medicinal uses of the forest plants and also the other plant types that abound in the forest. You take your picnic lunch in a dry river bed (depending on the season).
Your afternoon continues with a pleasant stroll to the waterfall at Tad Say before making your return to the village. You may be lucky and see some the colourful butterflies and birds that live in the forest.
We come back to Ban Na where we will spend the night at a local homestay.
Overnight at homestay in Ban Na
Distance:Â
- Vietiane – Phou Khao Khuay: 80 miles 🡪 3 hour driving transfer
DAY 2: TREKKING TO TAD LEUK – NAM PIEN YORLA PA (B/L/-)
Pick up: 08:30AM
Following an early morning meal, we’ll make our way to the trekking starting point aboard a Songthaew.
Before embarking on the trek through small jungle paths, we’ll make a brief stop at the Visitor Center, where you can find valuable insights into the NPA’s rich flora and fauna. The Tad Leuk Nature Trail will also introduce you to intriguing botanical facts. Our midday meal will be enjoyed at Tad Leuk.
In the afternoon, the trek will lead us along the Nam Leuk, guiding us to the picturesque Tad Sang waterfall—an ideal spot for swimming and unwinding. As we journey, especially during the wet season, you’ll encounter a profusion of orchids adorning the landscape.
We then return to Tad Leuk and transfer back to Ban Hatkhay before continuing further to Nam Pien Yorla Pa.
The transfer will take around 1 hour and you arrive at the resort just before sunset.
Overnight at hotel in Nam Pien Yorla Pa.
Distance:Â
- Vietiane – Nam Pien Yorla Pa: 48 miles  🡪 1,5 hour driving transfer
DAY 3: NAM PIEN YORLA PA – TREKKING & ZIPLINE (B/-/-)
Pick up: 08:30 AM
Following your morning meal, we’ll embark on a brief jungle journey, kickstarting your day of adventure.
Next, we’ll embark on a short trek through the jungle, including traversing flying bridges spanning approximately 600 meters. This leads us to the launch point for our exhilarating jungle zipline experience, featuring 8 zipline courses. Post-zipline adventure, we’ll make our way to the water park, offering a refreshing pool for your relaxation and enjoyment.
The afternoon is yours to explore at your leisure, with a multitude of on-site activities available, including cycling, quad biking, and rollerblading.
You’ll spend the night at the comfortable accommodations of Nam Pien Yorla Pa.
Overnight at hotel in Nam Pien Yorla Pa.
DAY 4: NAM PIEN YORLA PA – BAN THAHEUA (B/-/-)
You’ll have a leisurely morning to bask in the resort’s stunning natural surroundings, nestled amidst lush jungle greenery.
In the afternoon, we’ll embark on a car journey to Ban Thaheua, situated on the northern shores of Nam Ngum Lake, often referred to as the “sea of Laos.”
Upon arrival, you’ll check in to your room. Free for the rest of the day.
Overnight at Sanctuary Nam Ngum Beach Resort.
Distance:Â
- Nam Pien Yorla Pa – Ban Tha Huea: 82 miles  🡪 1,5 hour driving transfer
DAY 5: BAN THAHEUA – KAYAKING EXPERIENCE (B/-/-)
Pick up: 08:30AM.Â
Optional: For those early risers, don’t miss the opportunity to witness the tranquil sunrise casting its gentle glow over the serene lake. Our guide will accompany you to a nearby spot where you can observe the local villagers as they begin their bustling day.
In the morning, 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.
We’ll return to the resort, granting you the entire afternoon to relax and relish the picturesque views. The resort boasts an inviting pool overlooking the lake, providing the perfect setting for you and your family to unwind.
Overnight at Sanctuary Nam Ngum Beach Resort.
 Distance:Â
- Ban Tha Huea – Nam Ngum Lake: 22 miles 🡪45 minutes driving transfer
DAY 6: NAM NGUM LAKE LUNCH CRUISE – VANG VIENG (B/L/-)
10am: Embark on our sala boat at Sanctuary Nam Ngum pier. Cruise through the islands, observing life along the banks. Explore various local fishing techniques and rice production in this region of Laos.
11:45 am: The boat will dock at one of the many islands, and a BBQ lunch will be served. You’ll have the opportunity to swim in the lake’s waters or try your hand at fishing like the locals.
1:30 pm: The boat sets off once again, beginning its return journey to the resort. Envision the dried fish preservation method while weaving through the islands.
2 pm: Arrive at Sanctuary Nam Ngum Beach Holiday Village Resort. Then transfer to Vang Vieng.
Upon arrival, check in at your hotel. Free for the rest of the day for your own exploration of this small town of Vang Vieng.
Overnight at hotel in Vang Vieng.
Distance:Â
- Nam Ngum Lake – Vang Vieng: 37 miles 🡪1 hour driving transfer
DAY 7: VANG VIENG – EXPLORATION – HOT AIR BALLOON (B/-/-)Â
Pick up: 08:30AM
The limestone cliffs and valleys surrounding the resort complex of Vang Vieng are home to numerous caves and caverns.Â
The most famous of these caves is Tham Jang, which was used by the local people as a refuge from Chinese invaders 200 years ago. From there, we will drive further to Tham Nangfa or Angel Cave, which is filled by the huge limestone formations and has spectacular stalactites in various unique formations.
You have ample time to visit Blue Lagoon, which is a great spot to relax and cool off before transferring back to Vang Vieng
Take a local long tail boat (2 people per boat) to cruise for approximately 30 minutes upstream on the Nam Song River, enjoying the beautiful scenery as you go.
You will then be driven back to your hotel, with the option to stop at local villages and a market along the way.
Late afternoon, join the hot-air balloon ride over the mountain of Vang Vieng whilst the sun is setting and admire the beautiful nature in the surrounding area.
Overnight at hotel in Vang Vieng
Distance:Â
- Vang Vieng – Thamg Jang: 3.5 miles 🡪15 minutes driving transfer
- Tham Nangfa – Blue Lagoon 3: 15 miles 🡪45 minutes driving transfer
DAY 8: PHA NAMXAY VIEWPOINT – MUANG FEUANG (B/-/-)
Pick up: 04:30AM
In the early hours of the morning, we’ll embark on a hike to reach the captivating Nam Xay Viewpoint. This vantage point treats you to an awe-inspiring panoramic vista of the encompassing karst mountains, winding river, and the town below, all while the sun gracefully ascends.
Afterward, we’ll return to your hotel to savor a delightful breakfast. The remainder of the morning is yours to enjoy at your leisure, whether you choose to relax or take a refreshing dip in the pool.
In the afternoon, we’ll once again board our vehicle for a journey to Muang Feuang, a tranquil gem nestled away from the tourist hotspots, along the serene banks of the Nam Song River. Here, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Laos, surrounded by pristine landscapes.
By mid-afternoon, we’ll arrive at Muang Feuang, where you’ll check in to your chosen hotel. You’ll spend the night in the tranquil haven of Muang Feuang, far from the bustling tourist crowds.
Overnight at hotel in Muang Feuang.
Distance:Â
- Nam Xay Viewpoint – Muang Feuang: 56 miles 🡪1,5 hour driving transfer
DAY 9: MORNING ALMS GIVING ON THE RIVER – LESURE DAY (B/-/-)
Pick up: 05:30AM
Early morning, we’ll embark on a short journey to reach a floating house nestled along the serene Nam Song River. Here, a unique and meaningful morning alms giving ceremony awaits us.
As the local community assembles on the floating house, a boat carrying monks clad in saffron robes will gracefully approach. They pause to accept offerings of food from the devout individuals gathered there, reciprocating with their blessings and melodic chants, bestowing their well wishes upon all in attendance.
This enchanting experience is sure to leave an indelible mark in your memory, a cherished moment from your journey through Laos. Following this heartwarming ceremony, we’ll return to your hotel for a nourishing breakfast.
The remainder of the day is yours to explore as you please. You have a variety of activities to choose from, including tubing, kayaking, or rafting, allowing you to shape your day to your preferences. You’ll spend the night in the tranquil embrace of Muang Feuang, ready for new adventures on the horizon.
Overnight at hotel in Muang Feuang.
DAY 10: MUANG FEUANG – VIENTIANE – DEPARTURE(B/-/-)
Pick up: 08:30AM
Following a satisfying breakfast at the hotel, it’s time to say goodbye to the tranquil enclave of Muang Feuang and embark on a journey to Vientiane, following the scenic road along the majestic Mekong River.Â
En route, we’ll make a stop at the Sinxayaram Temple, a revered sanctuary often referred to as the “Kingdom of Buddhism.” This temple compound, recently renovated and expanded, has been a focal point for the devout from across Laos and northern Thailand for many decades. Today, it also extends a warm welcome to tourists eager to explore its spiritual and cultural richness.
Our arrival in Vientiane is anticipated for mid to late afternoon, contingent on road conditions and the time spent at some of the captivating viewpoints along the way.
You can either spend another night in the vibrant city of Vientiane, ready to savor your final moments in this remarkable destination or continue directly to the airport to take the departure flight for the next destination.
Please note that if you plan to depart today, it is advisable to book an evening flight scheduled for after 4 PM. This will help ensure a relaxed and stress-free journey back to Vientiane without the need to rush.
Distance:Â
- Muang Feuang – Vientiane: 84 miles 🡪2 hour 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.
