Laos Classic 6 Days / 5 Nights

In the morning, take a short train ride from Vientiane to Vang Vieng, a small town on the Nam Song River, surrounded by stunning limestone mountains and caves. Vang Vieng is a popular destination for water sports, relaxation, and hiking. Visit Tham Jang cave, which has a beautiful view of the river and the mountains. Enjoy some light kayaking on the river with your guide. You will also have some free time to explore the town and its shops.

Overnight in Vang Vieng

Depart from lovely Vang Vien and drive to Xieng Khouang, a region that was heavily bombed by the Americans between 1964 and 1973. Take the back roads to see the real Laos, and meet the rural people who are curious about you as you may be about them. The journey might seem a bit long, but you can stop anytime and anywhere, to relax and take some wonderful pictures. (The trip will take about 7-8 hours, with some stops along the way.)

In the afternoon, visit the old capital of Muang Khoun Province and its nearby villages.

Overnight in Xieng Khouang

In the morning, experience the diverse cultures of the hill tribes at the Central Market of Phonsavanh, where they trade and negotiate their goods. Then, leave this quaint town and head to Luang Prabang, stopping along the way to admire the ancient Buddha statues in Thampra, which date back more than 200 years, and to visit various villages of Hmong and other ethnic minorities. You will be greeted by the warm and friendly people of these villages. Take some photos and then continue your journey through the scenic mountain roads, enjoying the views of the forests and landscapes. Have a break for tea or coffee at Sala Phoukhoun, where the borders of Vientiane, Xieng Khouang and Luang Prabang meet. Cross the mountainous regions until you reach Luang Prabang. (The trip will take about 7-8 hours, with some stops along the way.)

Overnight in Luang Prabang

In the morning, enjoy a scenic cruise on the Mekong River, which will take you to the mysterious Pak Ou Caves, where thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues of different sizes and shapes are left by pilgrims. On the way, stop at the small village of Ban Xanghai and see how the local rice wine is made.

In the afternoon, explore the ancient city, visiting the impressive stupa of Wat Visoun and the shrines of Wat Aham and Wat Mai. Admire the temple of Wat Xieng Thong, a masterpiece of architecture located at the confluence of the Mekong and the Nam Khan Rivers. The temple is decorated with gilded stuccoes, doorways and a beautiful ‘tree of life’ mosaic on an outer wall. Next, climb to the top of Mount Phousi to see the sacred, gilded stupa and to watch a stunning sunset over the ancient city and the river. Then, walk around the Night Market, where you can find a variety of textiles made by the locals and the hill tribes around Luang Prabang.

Overnight in Luang Prabang

In the morning, visit the stunning Khouangsi Waterfall, where you can swim in the clear blue pools or hike along the forest trails. The waterfall is a paradise on earth. On the way, stop at some local villages of different Lao ethnic groups, such as Ban Ouay (Hmong), Ban Ou (Laoloum), and Ban Thapene (Khmu). Visit also the Bear Rescue Center and learn about the efforts to protect the endangered Asiatic black bears before heading back to Luang Prabang in the late afternoon. 

Transfer to the airport for your outbound flight.