Essentials of Laos

DAY 1: Vientiane Arrival

Sa-bai-dee! Welcome to Vientiane, the capital city of Laos.

Situated on the banks of the Mekong River, Vientiane offers a unique blend of gilded Buddhist shrines, faded French colonial architecture, charming cafes, bustling noodle stalls, vibrant sidewalk markets, and tranquil medieval streets. It’s a city that combines relaxation with liveliness, offering a distinctive charm you won’t find elsewhere in Asia.

You will be met by our guide and driver at the airport for a short transfer to your hotel for check-in (starting at 2:00 PM). The rest of the day is yours to unwind or explore the town at your leisure. Overnight at a hotel in Vientiane.

Summary of inclusions

• Private airport transfer
• Hotel in Vientiane

DAY 2: Sightseeing Vientiane

Today, you’ll spend the entire day exploring the highlights of Vientiane, the capital city of Laos.

Begin your tour with a visit to Wat Sisaket, the oldest temple in the city, known for its thousands of miniature Buddha statues. Next, visit the former royal temple of Wat Prakeo, which once housed the famous Emerald Buddha. On the way to the revered That Luang Stupa, stop to snap some photos of the impressive Patuxay Monument, often referred to as Vientiane’s own Arc de Triomphe.

In the afternoon, continue your exploration of Vientiane’s mystical charm with visits to Wat Ong Tue, Wat Inpeng, Wat Haisok, and the Buddha Park, an intriguing collection of Buddhist and Hindu sculptures created by a mystical monk, situated along the Mekong River.

Cap off your day by enjoying a spectacular sunset over the Mekong River.

The evening is free for you to spend at your leisure. Overnight stay in a hotel in Vientiane.

Summary of inclusions

• Private vehicle
• Sightseeing Vientiane
• Breakfast
• Hotel in Vientiane

DAY 3: Luang Prabang explore

Transfer to the airport for your morning flight to Luang Prabang.

Known for its well-preserved traditional charm, Luang Prabang is a UNESCO World Heritage town that stands out as one of Southeast Asia’s most enchanting destinations. With its serene atmosphere, stunning natural landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, it offers a truly memorable experience in Laos and Indochina.

This afternoon, enjoy a bicycle or green tuk-tuk tour to explore the ancient town. Visit notable sights including the iconic Wat Xieng Thong, renowned for its multiple low-sweeping roofs, and the former Royal Palace, now the National Museum, which houses rare religious and cultural artifacts. Continue to Wat Mai, built in 1796, known for its five-tiered roof that exemplifies the elegant Luang Prabang architectural style.

In the evening, climb to the top of Phousi Mountain to explore the sacred gilded stupa and take in the breathtaking sunset views over the city and the Mekong River. Explore the Night Market, where you can find beautiful handmade textiles created by local and hill tribe artisans.

The evening is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Overnight at a hotel in Luang Prabang.

Summary of inclusions

• Private airport transfers
• Green tuk tuk
• Sightseeing Luang Prabang
• Breakfast
• Hotel in Luang Prabang

DAY 4: Mekong cruise & Pak Ou cave

Wake up early if you wish to witness the daily ritual of saffron-clad monks receiving offerings from local residents with their black alms bowls.

After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the pier and board a cruise upstream on the Mekong River. Enjoy the serene landscapes of the countryside as you head toward the Pak Ou Caves, famous for their thousands of gold-lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes, making it a revered site for Laotian pilgrims.

During the cruise, you will make several stops to visit traditional villages, such as Ban Xang Hai, where you can learn about the local rice wine distillation process, and Ban Xang Khong and Ban Xienglek, known for their traditional silk weaving and handmade flower paper.

The rest of the day is free for you to explore the charming old quarter of Luang Prabang, taking in the beautiful colonial architecture. An optional Laos cooking class is available if you’re interested.

The evening is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Overnight at a hotel in Luang Prabang.

Summary of inclusions

• Boat
• Pak Ou cave explore
• Traditional villages visit
• Breakfast
• Hotel in Luang Prabang

DAY 5: Kuang Si falls visit

After breakfast, set out on a drive to the stunning Kuang Si Waterfall, a true gem of the Luang Prabang area. Along the way, you’ll stop at Hmong and Khmu hill tribe villages, where you can gain insight into the rich cultural diversity of Laos.

Upon arrival at Kuang Si Waterfall Park, you’ll visit the Kuang Si Bear Rescue Sanctuary, where you’ll learn about the Asian sun and moon bears and the efforts of the Free the Bears Protection Program.

Kuang Si is often regarded as the most beautiful natural wonder in Luang Prabang and across Laos. From a height of 60 meters, vibrant waters cascade down limestone formations, creating a series of stunning turquoise pools. The combination of the white falls, crystal-clear ponds, intricate travertine formations, and the lush green jungle forms a breathtakingly picturesque landscape.

One of the best activities here is swimming in the turquoise pools and letting the refreshing waterfalls cascade over you. You can also hike along a jungle trail to the top of the falls for a panoramic view of the stunning water patterns below.

Take your time to explore and swim in the crystal-clear waters. Return to Luang Prabang in the late afternoon, with the evening free for you to enjoy at your leisure. Overnight stay in a hotel in Luang Prabang.

Summary of inclusions

• Private vehicle
• Hill Tribe villages visit
• Kuang Si falls discovery
• Breakfast
• Hotel in Luang Prabang