Discover Laos

Upon arrival in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Luang Prabang, nestled between the Nam Khan and Nam Ou rivers, you'll be transferred to your hotel. Spend your day leisurely exploring the town's historic temples and colonial-style buildings. Highlights include the magnificent Wat Xieng Thong and the Royal Palace, now a National Museum. Conclude your day with a climb up Mount Phousi for a breathtaking sunset view over the city.
Overnight in Luang Prabang.
 

Day 02 of your journey in Luang Prabang starts with an invigorating breakfast, preparing you for a day filled with spiritual exploration and cultural immersion. The highlight of the day is a tranquil cruise along the mighty Mekong River, a lifeline for many and a source of endless fascination with its lush landscapes and glimpses of riverside village life.

The destination is the mystical Pak Ou Caves, a sacred site located at the confluence of the Mekong and Ou rivers. The caves, known for housing thousands of Buddha statues left by pilgrims over centuries, offer a serene and somewhat mystical atmosphere. The variety of statues, ranging in size and age, nestled within the limestone caverns against the backdrop of the Mekong River, provides a profound sense of peace and spirituality. This visit not only connects you with the local religious practices but also offers stunning natural vistas from the cave entrances.

On the return journey, the boat docks at Ban Xang Hai, a village with a longstanding tradition of producing 'lao lao', a local rice wine. Here, you have the unique opportunity to observe the distillation process and even sample this potent spirit, offering insights into local customs and livelihoods.

Next, a visit to Ban Xang Khong introduces you to the intricate arts of traditional Lao textiles and Saa (mulberry) paper production. This village is renowned for its skilled artisans who weave silk and cotton garments and create beautiful paper products decorated with flowers and leaves. It's a perfect place to pick up souvenirs that are not just items but carry stories of traditional Laotian craftsmanship.

As the day winds down, you return to Luang Prabang with enough time to delve further into the city's rich cultural heritage. The evening can be spent wandering through the night market, a vibrant tapestry of colors, textures, and aromas. Here, you can find everything from handmade crafts and jewelry to delicious local snacks, making it an ideal spot to enjoy dinner and perhaps find meaningful keepsakes of your journey.

Your night in Luang Prabang is spent reflecting on the day's adventures, surrounded by the quiet beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage city, as you rest and rejuvenate in preparation for the next day's explorations.Overnight in Luang Prabang.
 

 In Luang Prabang is an immersion into the spiritual and cultural heart of the city, starting with an early breakfast that energizes you for the day ahead. Your exploration begins at Wat Visoun, known as the 'Watermelon Stupa' due to its unique shape. As the oldest temple in Luang Prabang, it offers a deep dive into the city's rich Buddhist heritage and architectural beauty.

The journey continues to Wat Aham and Wat Mai, each temple showcasing distinct Laotian designs, intricate carvings, and serene Buddha statues, reflecting the spiritual devotion and artistic craftsmanship of the local culture. These visits provide a profound understanding of the religious and historical layers that define Luang Prabang.

A stroll through the city's vibrant local markets around midday reveals an array of exotic fruits, vegetables, textiles, and crafts, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the residents and the opportunity to sample local delicacies or pick up unique souvenirs.

For those interested in Lao cuisine, participating in a traditional cooking class is a delightful way to spend the afternoon. It's not just about learning to prepare dishes like 'laap' or 'mok pa'; it's an interactive cultural experience that connects you with the flavors and traditions of Laos.

As the afternoon mellows into evening, a leisurely boat ride along the Nam Khan River presents Luang Prabang in a different light. The gentle flow of the river, the verdant banks, and the soft glow of the setting sun offer a tranquil and picturesque conclusion to your day in this enchanting city.

Your night is spent in Luang Prabang, where the day's experiences meld into cherished memories, setting a serene backdrop for a restful night's sleep.
 

The adventure takes a scenic turn as you depart from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng after breakfast, embarking on a 4 to 5-hour drive through the captivating landscapes of Laos. This journey through winding roads and lush hills offers breathtaking views and occasional glimpses of rural life, setting the stage for the natural beauty that Vang Vieng is famed for.

Upon arrival in Vang Vieng, you're greeted by the town's dramatic limestone karsts and the tranquil Nam Song River, a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. The town itself, once known for its vibrant party scene, has transformed into a peaceful retreat that's in harmony with its natural surroundings.

Exploring Vang Vieng can start with a visit to local caves like Tham Phu Kham, which combines the thrill of cave exploration with the serenity of the Blue Lagoon, a perfect spot for a refreshing swim surrounded by nature's splendor.

For those seeking more adventurous activities, Vang Vieng offers options like kayaking down the Nam Song River or taking a hot air balloon ride for an unparalleled view of the karsts and valleys at sunset, adding an adrenaline rush to the natural tranquility.

Your day in Vang Vieng ends as you settle down for the night in this picturesque town, surrounded by natural beauty and filled with the day's adventures, ensuring a peaceful and rejuvenating rest.
 

Day 05 of your journey begins with the tranquil beauty of Vang Vieng greeting you for one last morning. After breakfast, seize the opportunity to immerse yourself further in the natural wonders of this picturesque town. Perhaps, take a serene walk along the banks of the Nam Song River, capturing the morning mist as it lifts off the limestone karsts, or visit a local village to witness the simplicity and warmth of rural Laotian life.

By mid-morning, you'll embark on the journey to Vientiane, the serene and charming capital of Laos, located approximately 3 to 4 hours away by road. This drive transitions you from the rural landscapes of Vang Vieng to the more urban but equally laid-back atmosphere of Vientiane. The journey is a pleasant meander through changing sceneries, offering glimpses into everyday life in Laos, with stretches of rice fields giving way to the approaching cityscape.

Upon arrival in Vientiane, the afternoon is dedicated to exploring the city's rich tapestry of history, culture, and spirituality. Your exploration begins with the iconic That Luang Stupa, a gleaming golden monument that is not only a national symbol but also a significant site in Buddhist tradition. Its impressive architecture and the sense of peace that pervades the area offer a profound insight into the spiritual heart of Laos.

Next, the Patuxai Victory Monument beckons. Often referred to as Vientiane's own Arc de Triomphe, Patuxai offers panoramic views of the city from its upper decks, and its detailed Laotian motifs tell stories of the country's struggle for independence and its rich cultural heritage.

As the day transitions into evening, a leisurely stroll along the Mekong Riverfront provides a refreshing counterpoint to the day's explorations. This vibrant area comes alive at dusk, with locals and visitors alike enjoying the cool breeze, stunning sunsets, and the bustling night market that offers everything from handicrafts to local street food.

Dinner in Vientiane introduces you to the city's culinary scene, where traditional Lao flavors meet a subtle French influence, a reminder of the country's colonial past. Enjoy dishes like larb (minced meat salad), sticky rice, and perhaps a French-inspired dessert, rounding off a day of cultural and sensory exploration.

Your night in Vientiane is spent soaking in the city's relaxed atmosphere, providing a comfortable and peaceful end to a day filled with new sights, sounds, and flavors, as you rest and rejuvenate for the adventures that await.
 

On your final day, after breakfast, explore any remaining attractions in Vientiane. You might visit the COPE Visitor Centre for insights into Laos' recent history or browse through local markets for last-minute souvenirs. Your journey concludes with a transfer to the airport, bidding farewell to the enchanting and culturally rich nation of Laos.