Discover CIA bases and archaeological wonders

Catch a morning flight to Vientiane and meet your guide upon arrival at the airport. Transfer to your hotel in the serene capital city situated on the Mekong River. In the afternoon, explore Buddha Park, a unique blend of Buddhist and Hindu sculptures by the Mekong River, and stop to admire That Luang Stupa and Victory Gate en route. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the Mekong River for sunset and visit the night market. Overnight at accommodation in Vientiane

After breakfast, we will go on a sightseeing tour of the city before heading off. We will visit some of the best sights, including the Wat Prakeo (Emerald Buddha’s house) and the Wat Sisaket. Then, we will take a 5-6 hour drive to Xay Somboun, also known as the battle zone, where the Lao Communist Party forces headquarters confronted the American CIA base. Due to its location and military importance, it was also referred to as The Most Secret Place on Earth. Overnight at accommodation in Xaysomboun

Enjoy breakfast at a local restaurant and then spend the morning exploring the area with a guide or on your own. Later, we will proceed to Chao Anou Vong caves. We will climb up to admire the view at Phra Nang Yue and before sunset, visit the viewpoint at Phou Houa Lon (bald mountain), which offers an excellent landscape view over the city. Overnight at accommodation in Xaysomboun.

Following breakfast, we explore Long Chieng, an American CIA base during the Vietnam War that housed over 40,000 residents. It was a strategic site during the Lao Civil War and operated until 1975 when it was attacked by Lao Communist forces, leading to its evacuation. After lunch, we journey to Xieng Khouang, also known as "onsavan," the gateway to the Plain of Jars. We will visit Plain of Jar sites 3 and 2 before relishing the sunset from the hotel balcony. Overnight at accommodation in Xieng Khouang.

Start your day with a hotel breakfast before heading to the ancient capital city of Muang Khoun at 8AM. The city features a sitting giant Buddha and ancient pagodas, including the remnants of Wat Phia, a 30-meter stupa from the Lan Xang/Lanna period.

Afterwards, visit Plain of Jar Site 1 and the MAG Center, a humanitarian organization dedicated to clearing conflict remnants worldwide.

• The Plain of Jars was heavily bombed during the war; it is imperative to respect all signage and to stay along the defined trails due to bombs, UXO and landmines.

Overnight at accommodation in Xieng Khouang.

Today is a leisure day as we depart for a relaxing visit to the Aza Hot Spring water, just 50km away. We will have the opportunity to unwind and enjoy the amenities at the Aza Resort

Overnight at accommodation in Aza Resort

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before departing at 7:30AM for a scenic 6-7 hour journey to Luang Prabang with your private guide and driver. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and local villages along the way. Upon arrival, check in to a centrally located hotel. In the evening, relax with a sunset cruise along the Mekong River and visit the lively Luang Prabang Night Market. Overnight at accommodation in Luang Prabang.

Following breakfast, board a ferry to cross the Mekong River and visit a pottery village, then return to explore the charming textile village of Xangkong. Enjoy a pleasant lunch at a local restaurant before heading to the National Museum at the former Royal Palace. End the day by admiring the picturesque confluence where the Kan River joins the mighty Mekong. Return to the hotel for the night. Today meal inclusive : Lunch will be served at Tamarind. Overnight at accommodation in Luang Prabang.

Following breakfast, you will travel to the Khouang Si Waterfall for a visit. There will be some free time to take a leisurely walk and swim.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant located near the waterfalls before returning to Luang Prabang. On the way back to the hotel, there will be a stop at the Elephant Sanctuary.

Overnight at accommodation in Luang Prabang.

 

Participate in the optional morning Alms giving ritual (4USD per person) or return to the hotel for breakfast. Afterward, visit Mount Phousi and take a stroll through the morning market with some free time. Then, transfer to the airport and board a flight to your next destination. End of service.