LUANG PRABANG – XIENG KHUANG – VANG VIENG – BAN THAHEUA – VIENTIANE – PHOU KHAO KHUAY NATIONAL PARK – PAKSAN – KONGLOR – BAN THALANG – THAKHEK – SAVANNAKHET – PAKSE – BOLAVEN PLATEAU – FANDEE ISLAND – JEEP TOUR – WAT PHOU – CHAMPASAK – PHOU ASA – 4000 ISLANDS – DONE DAENG – PAKSE – 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:
- Luang Prabang Airport – Luang Prabang Central: 2,5 miles 🡪10 minutes driving transfer
DAY 2: ANCIENT CITY – MEKONG RIVER – 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 gold 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 – Wat Xiengthong: 1,5 miles 🡪5 minutes driving transfer
DAY 3: BAN LONG LAO – KUANG SI WATERFALL (B/L/-)
Pick up: 08:30AM
We depart from your hotel and drive for around one hour west to Ban Xeng Mouk village where the trek starts.
We begin with a visit to the ethnic Khmu village of Ban Longlao Nung before heading to the nearby Hmong village of Ban Longlao Song. You will be able to observe the lifestyles of these two culturally very different minority groups and see how despite their differences they manage to work together on a day-to-day basis and even sharing the same school.
As we continue onwards the trail leads through rice paddys and vegetable fields before reaching the mountainous forest. Along the way we explore a cave which was used as a bomb shelter by the locals during the second indochina war.
After visiting the cave, one more hour of trekking brings us to one of the many springs which feeds Kuang Si waterfalls, here a beautiful pool full of sacred fish can be seen. After descending from the top of the waterfall we enjoy a Lao style lunch amongst some beautiful settings!
The afternoon is spent bathing and relaxing around the turquoise pools below the waterfall. You can also visit the bear conservation center which is located nearby and home to many bears which have been rescued from illegal farms.
Before returning to Luang Prabang we take a short walk to a nearby Khmu village of Ban Thapene which is home to some of the most beautiful pools of Kuang Si Waterfalls.
Approximately: 2 hours driving, 3 hours trekking
Overnight at hotel in Luang Prabang.
Distance:
- Luang Prabang Central – Kuang Si: 20 miles 🡪30 minutes driving transfer
DAY 4: MORNING ALMS GIVING – NAHM DONG PARK (B/L/-)
Pick up: 05:30AM
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.
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: 6,2 miles 🡪 20 minutes driving transfer
DAY 5: LUANG PRABANG – MANDA LAOS (Therapeutic trek) – VANG VIENG (train) (B/L/-)
Pick up: 08:30AM
After picking you up from town or your hotel we will leave Luang Prabang around 08:30 for the nearby village of Xieng Lom. Upon arrival you are invited to have coffee or tea as your guide for the day provides an in-depth introduction to elephant behavior and the ways we should interact with them.
A quick boat ride across the Nam Khan River will deliver you to the waiting elephants. You will be introduced to your new friends and feed them some special treats – a sure way to begin an instant friendship.
Enjoy observing elephants from the river bank as Mahouts wash them in the Nam Khan river. You can experience elephants washing, swimming and playing in the water. Please note this is voluntary activity for the elephants and Mandalao does not force them to get in the water. (On cold days the elephants are less likely to want to get wet).
After 2 hours crossing through a beautiful stretch of traditional Lao gardens you will arrive at the jungle-covered Huay Nok stream. As you walk alongside the elephants and crisscross through the cool water you will experience a profound sense of understanding, respect, and caring for these amazing animals. As you prepare to start your walk back to MandaLao, you will bid farewell to your new friends with more treats and goodbye hugs.
When you get back to MandaLao, you will head to the restaurant and enjoy a delicious fresh Lao meal made from our own organically grown produce. There you can relax, kick-back, and process the day’s experiences on the veranda overlooking the river and misty mountains.
Following lunch, you will take the short ride back into Luang Prabang and have one more chance to ask your guides any lingering questions. You will arrive back by approximately 1:30.
We then transfer out to the train station to take the speed train to Vang Vieng (1 hour)
Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel in town.
Overnight at hotel in Vang Vieng
Distance:
- Luang Prabang – Vang Vieng: 115 miles 🡪3 hour driving transfer
DAY 6: VANG VIENG – BAN THA HEUA (B/-/-)
Pick-up: 08:30AM
The limestone cliffs and valleys surrounding the resort complex of Vang Vieng are home to numerous caves and caverns.
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.
There is a small natural pool in front of the caves where you can take a swim to refresh yourself from the hot climate or you could explore the nearby area.
We then transfer to Ban Tha Heua to spend the night.
Overnight at hotel in Ban Tha Heua
Distance:
- Vang Vieng – Thamg Jang: 3.5 miles 🡪15 minutes driving transfer
- Tham Jang – Blue Lagoon 3: 12 miles 🡪 25 minutes driving transfer
- Tham Nangfa – Blue Lagoon 3: 15 miles 🡪45 minutes driving transfer
- Blue Lagoon 3 – Ban Tha Huea: 26 miles 🡪1 hour driving transfer
DAY 7: BAN THAHEUA – KAYAKING – VIENTIANE (B/-/-)
Pick-up: 08:30AM
Optional: Wake up early today, you never want to miss the serene sunrise over the peaceful lake. Our guide will escort you to the nearby area to watch the local villagers preparing for their busy day.
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.
In the afternoon, we will transfer to Vientiane via the expressway Vang Vieng – Vientiane.
Upon arrival, check in your hotel.
Overnight at hotel in Vientiane
Distance:
- Ban Thaheua – Vientaine: 77 miles 🡪2 hours driving transfer
DAY 8: 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 9: PHOU KHAO KHUAY ORCHID TREK – PAKSAN (B/L/-)
An early morning departure at 7:30am for the National Park at Phou Khao Khuay, the closest national protected area to Vientiane.
You will discover the National Park under the expert guidance of a French orchid specialist 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.
The Orchid Trek begins at Pha Say with its stunning view across a 40m deep gorge and the dense jungle.
You follow narrow, shaded trails and discover the different types of forest in the park: semi-deciduous, tropical and bamboo – extraordinary, unspoilt habitats.
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 riverbed (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 colourful butterflies and birds that live in the forest.
Return to Ban Hatkhay, and hop on the waiting minivan to transfer to Paksan, where we will spend the night.
Overnight at hotel in Paksan
Distance:
- Phou Khao Khuay – Paksan: 61 miles 🡪 2 hour driving transfer
DAY 10: PAKSAN – KONGLOR CAVE (B/-/-)
Pick-up: 08:30AM
After breakfast, we will travel to Ban Konglor. Along the way, have a quick stop at Wat Prabath Phonsane (‘Temple of the footprint of Buddha’).
You will then leave the highway and enter the Phou Hin Poun NPA (National Protected Area). The scenery will become much more spectacular, featuring limestone karsts, forests and rice paddies. From leaving the highway to reaching your destination will take approximately 2 hours. You will arrive in Ban Konglor around noon time.
In the afternoon, start your exploration of Kong Lor cave. You will be given life jackets and head torches before a short walk around to the main entrance of the cave.
Upon entering the cave, you will board a long tail boat which will take you through the length of this spectacular cave along an underground section of the Hin Boun River – a length of 7.5km before you see daylight again!
The river flows all year and reveals vast formations of stalactites and stalagmites, which you will explore partly on foot whilst inside the cave. In places the cave is up to 90m wide and 100m high. The cave is still used by local villagers as an access route to the region beyond. It is far quicker than climbing over the mountains which this cave cuts through!
Once out on the other side you can stop for refreshments and walk to local villages, enjoying the scenery and observing a simple way of life (discuss with your guide how far you would like to walk). Return by boat, travelling ‘downstream’ through the cave, to Ban Kong Lor.
Overnight at hotel in Ban Kong Lor
Distance:
- Paksan – Konglor Caves: 103 miles 🡪 3 hour driving transfer
DAY 11: BAN KONGLOR – BAN NAM SANAM (B/-/-)
Pick-up: 08:30AM
For early risers we recommend a walk at around 06:30 to explore the villages as they wake up and prepare for the day. Discuss this with your guide.
After breakfast, we will transfer to the nearby Ban Nam Sanam and check in the simple guesthouse here.
In the afternoon, we will visit Nam Sanam Waterfall. Located within the Phou Hin Phoun NPA near the village of Na Hin, Tad Namsanam is a spectacular multi-level double waterfall, which topples over a sandstone cliff into a rocky stream below.
The trek through the lush green jungle alive with gigantic trees and wildlife that includes birds and butterflies is one of the reasons attracting adventurers here. The hike is not to be taken lightly—the rough-cut trail is difficult, steep, and slippery.
Start early in the afternoon, you will arrive back to your hotel just in time to catch the sunset.
Note:
+ Nam Sanam Waterfall is good to see during rainy season (May to October)
+ The trek to Nam Sanam Waterfall is difficult and not fit for the light trekker. If you wish, you can extend the trek further to Tad Mouang Waterfall, which has water flowing all year round.
Overnight at hotel in Ban Namsanam.
Distance:
- Ban Kong Lor – Ban Nam Sanam: 25 miles 🡪45 minutes driving transfer
DAY 12: BAN NAM SANAM – BIRD WATCHING – BAN THALANG (B/-/-)
Pick up 04:30AM
Wake up early today, we will drive back to Ban Nahin and continue further to KM44.3, where we will hike through the small jungle track.
There are excellent views into the canopy and birds seem to be more active here than anywhere else with good bird waves coming through. Blue-bearded Bee-eater, Black-winged Cuckoo-shrike, Bar-winged Flycatcher Shrike, Drongo Cuckoo, Blue-winged and Golden-fronted Leafbird, Raddes Warbler, Hainan Blue Flycatcher, Grey-backed Shrike…
After the first 200m uphill this track keeps running level. It’s a good place for nightbirds too, such as Brown Hawk Owl, Mountain Scops Owl and Collared Owlet along the first 500m or so.
Getting back to the main road, we will drive to Ban Thabak, and enjoy the 02-hour boat ride along the Nam Theun River. The boat is made from the old aircraft oil tank, and suitable for up to 3 people per boat.
During the cruise, we enjoy the tranquil landscape along the bank of the river. We may stop at one or two local villages if you wish to see deeper into the local life.
In the afternoon, we will drive further to Ban Nam Yen, to cool off and take a dip at the natural swimming pool.
We will also make a short stop at Tham Mangkon (Dragon caves) before transferring directly to the beautiful village of Tha Lang in Nakai District.
The rest of the afternoon is free for your own exploration. You can choose to stroll along the river to admire the sunset, or go fishing on the lake, which is created by the Nam Theun 2 Hydropower Dam (extra charge)
For the overnight place, you have 2 options. For the ones who like partying, Sabaidee Guesthouse will be the solid choice. If not, Phousi Thalang will give you a quiet and peaceful atmosphere to enjoy your night.
Overnight at simple Guesthouse in Ban Thalang
Distance:
- Ban Nam Sanam – Ban Tha Lang: 69 miles 🡪 1 hour driving transfer
DAY 13: BAN THALANG – THAKHEK (B/L/-)
Pick-up: 08:30AM
Wake up early, you will prepare for your own breakfast with the help of Sabaidee Guesthouse owner.
After that we depart for Thakhek, the capital town of Khammouane Province. Along the way, we will make a short stop to visit Nam Theun 2 Visitor Center, where we can have some information of this Hydropower project.
We then continue driving about 02 hours to the village of Ban Nakhang Xang, to meet the village guide, who leads the trek.
Trek through secondary forest, while the guide points out forest products that provide the local people with significant food resources. The trail passes through a cave that exits into a striking valley surrounded by towering cliffs and forest.
The picnic lunch will be served wherever you feel hungry, we recommend to have it at Tham Hip, which offers the great panoramic view over the area.
In the afternoon, continue the trail, following the shoreline of Nong Thao Lake, where trekkers can see local fishermen at work.
At Tham Nong Paseum Cave, the adventurous can swim into the 400-metre-long cavern and explore its dramatic stalactites and stalagmites.
We then continue walking, and climb a bamboo stairway to the Buddha Cave, which was rediscovered in April 2004. The cave contains 229 bronze Buddhas that are said to be over 300 years old.
Late afternoon, we will drive to Thakhek to spend the night
Overnight at hotel in Thakhek.
Distance:
- Tha Lang – Thakhek: 66 miles 🡪2 hour driving transfer
DAY 14: THAKHEK – SAVANNAKHET (B/-/-)
Pick up: 09:30AM
After a leisurely breakfast, your guide will meet you around 09:30 to continue your journey south. The drive to Savannakhet takes approximately 1.5 hours.
Along the way, make a stop at the beautiful 16th Century temple of That Ing Hang, which is among the most revered temples in Laos and many Buddhists will travel here during December for the annual ‘Boun Phathat’ ceremony.
Continue in to Savannakhet. The city is most famous as the birthplace of the father of the Lao People’s Democratic Repulic (Lao PDR), Kaysone Phomvihane, who was born here in 1920. Take a short tour of the architectural highlights, which include various French villas and the striking St. Teresa Catholic Church. Visit the small but very interesting Dinosaur Museum. Dinosaur remains are being found nearby which are between 150,000,000 – 250,000,000 years old.
Free for the rest of the day for your own exploration or taking some rest to prepare for the next day adventure.
Overnight at hotel in Savannakhet.
Distance:
- Thakhek – Savannakhet: 80 miles 🡪 1.5 hour driving transfer
- Dinosaur Museum – Fandee Island: 166 miles 🡪 3.5 hour driving transfer
DAY 15: CHAMPHONE LOOP EXPERIENCE (B/L/-)
Pick-up: 08:30AM
This one-day circuit takes in the Hotay Pidok Library with thousands of ancient palm-leaf manuscripts, the sacred Monkey Forest with countless simians, Turtle Lake with enchanted turtles, and Soui Lake’s distinct irrigation system.
Begin your investigation of Champone at the Hotay Pidok Library, the country’s most important repository of palm leaf books written in ancient Lao, Burmese, Pali, and Khmer. Originally constructed in the late 18th century, the library houses some 4,000 books containing 361 different stories, which are kept in good condition by monks and locals.
From here, a 3-km trail leads to the Sacred Monkey Forest, with more than 3,000 of the mischief-making primates inhabiting the 3-hectare reserve. To meet the monkeys, offer them food while walking along the trail. The monkeys can also be spotted feeding at one of the forest’s many spirit houses, where locals place food to make merit. Many animals make their home at the forest’s temple, where monks care for them.
Next, travel 8 km west to Soui Lake and its stepped irrigation dam and small islands, where villagers catch fish and snails during the dry season. You can taste these and other local foods while viewing lotus blooms and migratory birds such as white storks.
Drive to Turtle Lake, where legendary resident ghosts are kept from harming the turtles by the natural lake’s spirit house. The turtles are of different sizes and ages, and local children are experts at luring them from the depths with food.
A 7-km ride north reaches the Taleo Old Temple just outside Ban Taleo Gnai. The early 20th century structure resembles a Catholic church with a Buddha statue in its alcove. Inside colourful murals recount the history of the temple and Buddha. American bombing in 1969 took its toll on many of the surrounding buildings, but the main temple remains intact.
Transfer back to Savannakhet late afternoon.
Overnight at hotel in Savannakhet
DAY 16: SAVANNAKHET – BOLAVEN PLATEAU – FANDEE ISLAND (B/-/-)
Pick-up: 08:30AM
In the morning, hit the road again for the drive further south, which takes approximately 3.5 hours.
We will take a left turn at Muang Khong Sedone to Bolaven Plateau on the way to Salavan.
We will arrive at Fandee Island on Bolaven Plateau around noon time, check in your treehouse to have some rest.
The afternoon is free for your own exploration of Fandee Island with plenty of activities on spot at the Fandee Waterpark or Fandee adventure park. The activities range from ziplining, swimming, or flying bridge.
Overnight treehouse at Fandee Island.
Distance:
- Savannakhet – Bolaven Plateau: 187 miles 🡪 3,5 hour driving transfer
- Bolaven Plateau – Fandee Island: 66 miles 🡪1 hour driving transfer
DAY 17: JEEP TOUR EXPLORING THE HIDDEN COFFEE TRAIL (B/L/D)
08:30Am, we will transfer to Ban Lao Ngam, where we will meet the Jeep tour specialist, and have some discussion with him about the jeep tour adventure.
After that, we will hop on the Jeep and drive 30 minutes to Tad Moun Waterfalls, where we can enjoy the fresh cool water, and visit the nearby vegetable farm.
11:00 Am, we continue driving to the Coffee Farm of Mr. Khamsone via the 10KM bumpy and muddy road, which will take you 01 hour with your special Jeep car.
Upon arrival, Mr khamsone, the Coffee farm’s owner will take 1hr to demonstration about coffee Roasting step and finishing by a coffee cupping to Savor the different kind of coffee (Robusta, Arabica and Typica).
We will have the picnic lunch on the farm at around 1:30PM before walking to the nearby refugee cave, which is used as the hidden place by the local villagers during the war time.
After that, we will continue walking along the farm to see the volcano mountain named Phou Sanark where we can enjoy the view over the farm and the nearby villages during the sunset.
You can learn to cook Lao foods with the wife of Mr. Khamsone while preparing the dinner with her. Overnight at the tent camp at the coffee farm.
Overnight in Tent Camp at Coffee Farm
DAY 18: BACK TO PAKSONG (B/L/-)
09:00 am: After breakfast we continue driving by JEEP for 14km or 1hr to Laven village name’s B Setkhord. In this village there are 500 families living in around 100 years old.
So, during the France Indochina, these plateau call Laven plateau, which means: An area or the hometown of Laven people living. Upon arrival, we can walk around, and our guide can tell you more stories about this village.
We then drive to Tad Say Waterfall where we will have the picnic lunch
After that we will drive to a Suay Village named B Darsia, where you can see many traditional house. 30% of the house here is still the traditionally built long house, and 60% is the traditional house.
The house is the place, where many generations will share together. The family use the house for all daily activities such as cooking, eating, and sleeping.
We will arrive back to our hotel in Paksong late afternoon. Free for the rest of the day
Overnight at hotel in Paksong.
DAY 19: PAKSONG – WAT PHOU – CHAMPASAK (B/-/-)
Pi ck up: 08:00AM
After breakfast, visit Tha Teng colourful ethnic minority food market. Next explore a couple of fascinating minority villages, Ban Bong Neua, an Alak village that boasts a sacrificial altar, and Ban Kokphung, a Katu village where they keep coffins under their houses.
In the afternoon visit 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 spectacular pre-Angkorian temple that sits amidst the rice fields and waterways of southern Laos, which was built by the rulers of the Khmer empire before the construction of Angkor Wat.
The temple served as the most important economic and political centre of the region and still is one of the Lao people’s most revered temples.
After your visit, we continue in to Champassak to see samples of French colonial architecture.
Overnight at hotel in Champassak.
Distance:
- Paksong – Champasak: 52 miles 🡪 1.5 hour driving transfer
DAY 20: CHAMPASAK – PHOU ASA TREKKING – KHONG ISLAND (B/L/-)
Pick up: 08:00AM
After breakfast, transfer to Ban Khiet Ngong, where we meet the local guide who will give us the interesting information on the local forest fauna and plants and their uses as a food supplement and traditional medicine.
We then start our trekking through the forest at the bottom of the Xe Pian NPA. Along the way, we may see the elephants wandering around not too far from the village. We may take a soft rest before continuing our journey observing the natural landscapes and listening to the sounds of the many different birds. If we are lucky, we will see monkeys.
Our guide will continue to take us to see the “Big Hole”, which was used in the past by local people to catch wild elephants.
On the way back to the village, we will stop at Phou Asa temple on the plateau near the village of Ban Kiet Ngong. From there, transfer directly to Khong Island, where we will spend the night.
4-5-hour trekking | easy to moderate
Overnight at hotel in Khong Island.
Distance:
- Champasak – Khong Island: 78 miles 🡪 2 hour driving transfer
DAY 21: 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 22: 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 23: PAKSE – UBON RATCHATHANI – DEPARTURE (B/-/-)
Pick-up: 6 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
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.
