Luang Prabang – Vang Vieng – Vientiane – Pakse – Bolaven – Wat Phou– 4000 Islands – Pakse
This journey invites travelers to experience the diverse beauty of Laos, from the tranquil charm of the north to the laid-back rhythms of the south. Begin in Luang Prabang, where time seems to slow down among golden temples, colonial villas, and peaceful riverbanks. Continue to Vang Vieng, a town surrounded by dramatic limestone mountains and lush countryside, perfect for both adventure and relaxation. In Vientiane, discover a capital city that blends Buddhist tradition with quiet elegance. A short flight takes you to Pakse, the starting point for exploring the cool highlands of the Bolaven Plateau, home to coffee farms and majestic waterfalls. Visit the ancient ruins of Wat Phou, a sacred UNESCO site, before heading to the serene 4000 Islands , where the Mekong River stretches into a maze of peaceful islets. The tour ends back in Pakse, leaving you with lasting impressions of Laos’s natural beauty and cultural depth.
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN LUANG PRABANG – BACI (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.
Late afternoon, join a private Baci ceremony at a local family. The Baci ceremony as a traditional ritual of the Lao people expresses the spirituality of the country and is a highly memorable experience and a deep insight into Lao culture for the participants.
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 – PAK OU CAVES (B/-/-)
Pick up: 08: 30 AM
After breakfast, you will first visit Royal Palace Museum, which was built in 1904 during the French colonial era for King Sisavang Vong and his family. We then embark on a leisure cruise upstream on the Mekong River, which also gives us a breathtaking view of the tranquil countryside, before reaching the mysterious Pak Ou Caves, two linked caves crammed with thousands of golds lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes left by pilgrims.
Along the way, we stop at the village of Ban Xanghai, where they make the local rice wine. On arrival back in the city, we will visit the old Wat Sene and the nearby magnificent Wat Xiengthong a superb piece of Lao temple architecture, which presents a sweeping two-tiered roof and ornate mosaics including a beautiful ‘tree of life ‘glass montage on the rear temple wall.
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.
Late afternoon, we will make a stop at Wat Prabath to admire the sunset; this is the ideal place to catch the last beauty of the day. The tour ends after a visit to the famous Night Market, where you can find a lovely collection of handmade textiles made by local and hilltribe people surrounding Luang Prabang
Overnight at hotel in Luang Prabang
Distance:
- Luang Prabang Central – Pak Ou Caves: 20 miles 🡪35 minutes driving transfer
- Pak Ou Caves – Heuan Chan: 20 miles 🡪35 minutes driving transfer
DAY 3: LUANG PRABANG – KUANG SI WATERFALLS (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 which offers a glimpse into daily life, with vendors selling fresh produce, handmade crafts, and textiles. These experiences provide a unique and authentic cultural immersion.
After breakfast at the hotel, we ascend the 329 steps to the top of Phousi Hill for a panoramic view of the city and the Mekong River. Then transfer directly to 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.
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.
Transfer back to your hotel late afternoon. Overnight in Luang Prabang
Optional:
+ For the family vacation, you can visit the Buffalo Dairy Farm on the way to Kuang Si waterfalls, which offer the fun and interesting experience for the kids.
+ After visiting Kuang Si waterfalls, you can visit the nearby Butterflies Park, where you can enjoy the afternoon tea with the homemade cookies whilst relaxing inside the green peaceful garden full of colorful butterflies
Overnight at hotel in Luang Prabang.
Distance:
- Luang Prabang Central – Kuang Si: 20 miles 🡪30 minutes driving transfer
- Kuang Si – Ock Top Tock Living Craft: 18 miles 🡪30 minutes driving transfer
DAY 4: LUANG PRABANG – NAHM DONG PARK – VANG VIENG (TRAIN) (B/L/-)
Pick up: 08:30AM
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.
Note: Zipline in 1 hour, trekking min 1 hour – max 3 hours depending on the route that you choose.
Then, our driver and our driver transfer you out to the train station to take the speed train to Vang Vieng (ABOUT 1 hour).
Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel in town.
Overnight at hotel in Vang Vieng
Distance:
- Luang Prabang Central – Nahm Dong park: 6,2 miles 🡪 20 minutes driving transfer
DAY 5: VANG VIENG – BAN THAHEUA (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. 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.
Then transfer directly to Ban Thaheua, which locates at the north side of Nam Ngum Lake, the “sea of Laos”. Upon arrival, check in your lakeside bungalow. Free for the rest of the day.
Overnight at hotel in Ban Thahuea
Distance:
- Vang Vieng – Thamg Jang: 3.5 miles 🡪15 minutes driving transfer
DAY 6: BAN THAHEUA – BOAT TRIP NAM NGUM LAKE – VIENTIANE (B/L/-)
Pick-up: 08:30AM
10 am: 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.
Contiuing further to Vientiane, we will stop at a local market, where various hill tribes come to trade goods and buy provisions.
We arrive in Vientiane just in time to catch the sunset. Overnight in Vientiane.
Overnight at hotel in Vientiane
Distance:
- Ban Tha Huea – Nam Ngum Lake: 22 miles 🡪45 minutes driving transfer
DAY 7: VIENTIANE – 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:
- COPE – Buddha Park: 15 miles 🡪 30 minutes driving transfer
DAY 8: VIENTIANE – FLIGHT TO PAKSE – BOLAVEN (B/-/-)
Pick-up: 2,5h before the flight departure
After breakfast, we take the flight to Pakse, the biggest city of the southern Laos.
Upon arrival, we head east to Pakse and onto the Bolaven Plateau. The Bolaven Plateau is known for its cooler temperature being located high above the Mekong Valley.
Stop at a tea plantation, followed by a brief visit to Tad Fan Waterfall, a picturesque twin chute waterfall. We will also visit the local village at Ban Lak Sipchet, which makes iron knife; and Ban Lak Samsip, which makes bamboo basket. If time permits, we will also visit Tad Yeung and take some dip into the cool clear natural pool at the foot of the waterfall
Last stop is at a coffee plantation before arriving at your destination for the evening. Overnight at hotel in Bolaven Plateau
Distance:
- Pakse – Bolaven Plateau: 22 miles 🡪 30 munites driving transfer
- Bolaven Plateau – Tad Fan Waterfall: 37 miles 🡪 1 hour driving transfer
DAY 9: BOLVAVEN 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 Done Khong
Distance:
- Tha Teng – Wat Phou: 81 miles 🡪 1.5 hour driving transfer
- Wat Phou – Done Khong: 84 miles 🡪 1.5 hour driving transfer
DAY 10: 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 Done Khone
DAY 11: KHONE ISLAND – KHONE PHAPHAENG – 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 12: PAKSE – UBON RATCHATHANI – DEPARTURE (B/-/-)
Pick up: 2.5 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
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.
