Starting in Bangkok we travel to Laos, the hidden gem of the former French Indochina. Travelling by slow boat on a leisurely pace down the Mekong River, we arrive at Luang Prabang, where royal palaces and temples tell the story of the rich Lao culture and heritage. A visit to the mysterious Plain of Jars takes us even further back in time to an archaeological site said to be 2000 years old, whilst nearby Hmong villages remind us also of the country’s intricate cultural diversity. We fly to the capital, Vientiane, a sleepy yet charming town on the Mekong River with its old buildings still exuding the mood of the French colonial days. We venture out to coffee growing region of southern Laos, the Bolaven Plateau and enjoy the laid back atmosphere of Si Pan Don (4000 islands) in southern Laos before flying back to Vientiane.
Itinerary
| Day 1 |
(Sat) Arrive in Bangkok and transfer to hotel. |
| Day 2 |
City tour of Bangkok. Fly to Chiang Rai. |
| Day 3 |
Cross border into Laos. Boat to Pakbeng. |
| Day 4 |
Boat to Luang Prabang, stopping en route at Pak Ou Caves and Ban Sang Hai. |
| Day 5 |
Watch monks on alms round and explore historic temples and the former Royal Palace. Visit Kuang Si Falls. |
| Day 6 |
Drive to Phonsavan and visit the Plain of Jars. |
| Days 7-8 |
Fly to Vientiane. City tour including Patuxai, Wat Si Saket, Wat Prakeo and Pha That Luang. |
| Day 9 |
Fly to Pakse and travel to Tad Fane eco lodge. |
| Day 10 |
Trek the trails around the Bolaven Plateau. |
| Day 11 |
Boat cruise down Mekong River to Don Khong. Visit Wat Po. |
| Day 12 |
Day tour of Si Pan Don. |
| Day 13 |
Fly back to Vientiane. |
| Day 14 |
Trip ends in Vientiane this morning (Fri). |