Luang Prabang explore

DAY 1: Luang Prabang Arrival

Sa-bai-dee! Welcome to Luang Prabang, the ancient capital of Laos!

As a UNESCO World Heritage town, Luang Prabang stands out as one of the best-preserved traditional cities in Southeast Asia. Its serene atmosphere, combined with stunning natural beauty and cultural landmarks, makes it a truly delightful destination in Laos and possibly all of Indochina.

This afternoon, explore the ancient town of Luang Prabang on a bicycle or in a green tuk-tuk. Visit key sights such as the iconic Wat Xieng Thong, renowned for its low-sweeping roofs, and the former Royal Palace, now the National Museum, which houses a collection of rare religious and cultural artifacts. Continue to Wat Mai, built in 1796, where the five-tiered roof of the wooden Sim (chapel) showcases the elegant Luang Prabang architectural style.

In the evening, climb Phousi Mountain to explore the sacred gilded stupa and enjoy a stunning sunset view of the city and the Mekong River. Don’t miss the Night Market, where you can browse beautiful handmade textiles created by local and hill tribe artisans.

Overnight at a hotel in Luang Prabang.

Summary of inclusions

• Private airport transfer
• Green tuk tuk
• Sightseeing Luang Prabang
• Hotel in Luang Prabang

DAY 2: Laos cooking class & Kuang Si Falls

Wake up early to experience the unique morning alms-giving ritual in Luang Prabang. Join the locals along the roadside to offer food to the monks in their yellow robes as they walk slowly in line with their alms bowls.

After breakfast at the hotel, meet our chef for a tour of the vibrant Phosy Market. Here, you’ll select fresh ingredients while taking in the sights of local products and market life. Proceed to the restaurant, where you’ll prepare ingredients and engage in hands-on cooking in the garden kitchen with guidance from our professional chef. You’ll receive an explanation of Southeast Asian cuisines and a printed recipe to help you recreate Lao dishes at home.

Enjoy a delicious lunch before a tea break, then take a drive to the stunning Kuang Si Waterfall, a highlight of the Luang Prabang area. Along the way, visit local hill tribe villages of the Hmong and Khmu to learn about the diverse cultural landscape of Laos.

At Kuang Si Waterfall Park, visit the Kuang Si Bear Rescue Sanctuary to learn about Asian sun and moon bears and the Free the Bears Protection Program. Spend time exploring and swimming in the crystal-clear waters.

Return to Luang Prabang in the late afternoon, with the evening free for your leisure. Overnight at a hotel in Luang Prabang.

Summary of inclusions

• Private vehicle
• Laos cooking class
• Kuang Si fall discovery
• Breakfast & lunch
• Hotel in Luang Prabang

DAY 3: Mekong cruise & Pak Ou cave

After breakfast, head to the pier and board a cruise upstream on the Mekong River. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the tranquil countryside as you make your way to the Pak Ou Caves, a sacred site filled with thousands of gold-lacquered Buddha statues in various shapes and sizes, revered by Laotian pilgrims.

Along the way, stop at the village of Ban Xang Hai to observe the local process of rice wine distillation.

Return to Luang Prabang and this afternoon, enjoy a relaxing traditional Lao oil massage.

The rest of the day is free for you to explore the old quarter of Luang Prabang at your own pace, admiring the beautiful colonial architecture.

Overnight at a hotel in Luang Prabang.

Summary of inclusions

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

DAY 4: Luang Prabang elephant experience

After breakfast, head out of Luang Prabang to an Elephant Camp, where you’ll have the opportunity to interact with these giant creatures. Feed the elephants, get close to them, and learn about their significance in Laotian history and culture.

Later, ride on the back of an elephant with your mahout through the tropical forest. The ride is scenic, peaceful, and relaxing, and doesn’t require any special fitness.

After lunch, return to Luang Prabang. On the way, stop at Ban Xang Khong to see their remarkable silk weavings and mulberry paper crafts.

The rest of the day is free for you to explore Luang Prabang at your own pace.

Overnight at a hotel in Luang Prabang.

Summary of inclusions

• Private vehicle
• Elephant sanctuary visit
• Breakfast & lunch
• Hotel in Luang Prabang