The Greatest Treasure of Laos

Meal: N/A Flight detail: TBA Upon arrival at Wattay International Airport in Vientiane, you will be warmly welcomed by your local guide and transferred to your centrally located hotel for check-in. In the late afternoon, enjoy a relaxing visit to the banks of the Mekong River to witness a spectacular sunset over the river. Afterwards, take a leisurely stroll through the lively Vientiane Night Market, where you can browse local handicrafts, souvenirs, and sample authentic Lao street food at your own pace.

Meal: B After breakfast, set out to discover the hidden gems of Vientiane. Begin your journey at the remarkable Lao Art Museum, where ancient Lao traditions blend seamlessly with contemporary artistic expression. Explore its inspiring collections, showcasing the country's rich cultural heritage through paintings, sculptures, and innovative modern artworks. Visit the unique Buddha Park, renowned for its impressive collection of over 200 Buddhist and Hindu sculptures displayed in a tranquil riverside setting. Continue to the magnificent Pha That Luang, the country's most sacred Buddhist monument and a proud national symbol. Next, admire the iconic Patuxai Monument, often referred to as Vientiane's Arc de Triomphe. If visiting on weekends or during special events, enjoy the colorful illuminated fountain show nearby. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure, exploring the Mekong riverside, browsing the vibrant night market, or relaxing at a local café.

Meal: B Train: C92 | 09:45–10:40 First-Class (Subject to change) After breakfast, enjoy a relaxing morning before transferring to the railway station for a scenic journey to Vang Vieng, a spectacular destination renowned for its dramatic limestone mountains and outdoor adventures. Upon arrival, board a traditional tuk-tuk for a transfer to your centrally located hotel to freshen up. Later, hike to a stunning Nam Xay viewpoint, where breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and karst landscapes await. In the afternoon, explore one of Vang Vieng's beautiful limestone angle caves before ending the day with a peaceful kayaking experience along the Nam Song River, drifting through magnificent scenery as you admire a spectacular sunset. Note: If you prefer to use a private minivan instead of a traditional tuk-tuk for your outdoor adventure in Vang Vieng, an additional charge of USD 20 per day will apply.

Meal: B Train Detail: D88. 08:55-10:41 Second-class (Subject to change) Optional activities include a sunrise experience beginning at 5:30 AM with a hot air balloon or Paramotor ride over the Nam Song River. This adventure provides stunning aerial views of Vang-Vieng's landscapes and cityscape from above, lasting approximately forty minutes (Not included). After breakfast, board a scenic train to Muang Xay, where your friendly driver will greet you upon arrival. Continue on a picturesque three-hour drive to Nong Khiaw, passing through spectacular mountain landscapes. Along the way, visit a traditional Hmong village and, if traveling during the season, experience the vibrant Hmong New Year celebrations. Continue to a local tea plantation and a village renowned for its traditional knife-making craftsmanship. Arrive in the peaceful riverside town of Nong Khiaw in the afternoon, surrounded by dramatic limestone mountains. Visit the historic Pha Tok Caves before hiking to the Pha Somnang Viewpoint to admire a breathtaking sunset. Return to your resort for a relaxing evening immersed in nature.

Meal: B After breakfast, board a traditional longtail boat for a scenic cruise along the tranquil Nam Ou River to the charming village of Muang Ngoy, nestled among towering limestone mountains. Upon arrival, ride a local Tok-Tok through picturesque rice fields to explore the fascinating Tham Kang Caves. Continue with visits to Ban Houay Sen, home to the Khmu ethnic community, and Ban Na, a traditional Tai Dam village, where you'll gain insight into local customs and daily life. After lunch, journey to the remote village of Ban Nam Houybo, a peaceful community untouched by mass tourism. Return to your riverside bungalow in the late afternoon and relax on your balcony while admiring the spectacular sunset over the surrounding mountains.

Meal: B After breakfast, enjoy a scenic boat cruise back to Nong Khiaw before continuing by road to the peaceful town of Muang Hiam, the gateway to Nam Et–Phou Louey National Park and the famous Laos Night Safari. Travel through breathtaking mountain landscapes and remote valleys, stopping at a traditional Khmu village to learn about the community's unique customs, language, and way of life. Along the route, meet local ethnic groups and gain insight into their rich cultural heritage and daily traditions. Upon arrival in Muang Hiam, relax in the area's natural hot springs, surrounded by pristine forest. End the day with a peaceful evening at your comfortable accommodation, immersed in the tranquility of northern Laos.

Meal: B After breakfast at a local restaurant, depart for the Nam Et–Phou Louey National Protected Area, home to the award-winning Nam Nern River Night Safari. Upon arrival, meet your friendly Khmu guide for an introduction to the community-based conservation program before boarding a traditional longtail boat upstream to the safari camp. Enjoy a freshly prepared local lunch and relax at your simple ecolodge surrounded by pristine forest. After dinner, set out on a silent night safari along the Nam Nern River in search of nocturnal wildlife, including deer, civets, and otters. Along the way, learn about wildlife conservation, traditional farming practices, and the region's Secret War history before returning to camp for a restful night in nature.

Meal: B After breakfast, leave the Nam Et–Phou Louey National Protected Area and journey through the remote highlands of northern Laos toward the mysterious Plain of Jars. Travel across picturesque countryside, passing traditional villages and scenic mountain landscapes that offer a glimpse into authentic rural life. En route, visit the historic Tham Piu Cave, a significant wartime shelter and memorial from the Vietnam War. Continue to Xiengkhouang Province, where you'll explore Site 1 of the UNESCO-listed Plain of Jars, famous for its thousands of ancient stone jars whose origins remain a mystery. End the day by admiring a spectacular sunset before transferring to your hotel for a relaxing evening.

Meal: B After breakfast, set out to explore the rich history and cultural heritage of Xiengkhouang. Begin with a visit to the historic town of Muang Khoun, once the provincial capital, before continuing to Ban Na Ou Village, where local families produce traditional handmade noodles using time-honored techniques. Next, discover a nearby village renowned for crafting handmade aluminum spoons from recycled materials. After lunch, visit Sites No. 3 and No. 2 of the mysterious Plain of Jars, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring hundreds of ancient stone jars scattered across the landscape. Conclude the day at the Mulberries Organic Silk Farm to learn about traditional silk weaving and sustainable production before returning to your hotel for a relaxing evening.

Meal: B After breakfast, meet your guide and depart by private vehicle for the scenic journey to Luang Prabang, the UNESCO World Heritage city. The approximately seven-hour drive passes through breathtaking mountain ranges, lush valleys, and picturesque rural villages, providing a fascinating glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of northern Laos. Along the way, stop at Muang Phou Khoun for lunch and enjoy the refreshing mountain scenery before continuing to Luang Prabang. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and spend the rest of the day relaxing or exploring the surrounding area at your leisure.

Meal: B After breakfast, begin your day with a visit to the National Museum, where fascinating royal artifacts and historical treasures tell the story of Laos from the Lan Xang Kingdom to the country's last monarch. Continue to a traditional crafts village and join a hands-on mulberry paper workshop, learning the techniques used by local artisans. In the afternoon, travel to Xang Hai Village, renowned for its traditional Lao rice whiskey, before boarding a local boat for a scenic Mekong River cruise to the sacred Pak Ou Caves, home to thousands of Buddha statues placed by pilgrims over centuries. As the day draws to a close, enjoy a peaceful sunset cruise along the Mekong before returning to Luang Prabang.

Meal: B Rise early for a memorable sunrise from the summit of Mount Phousi, where panoramic views overlook the ancient city of Luang Prabang. Continue with the sacred alms-giving ceremony, a centuries-old Buddhist tradition, before visiting the magnificent Wat Xieng Thong and exploring the vibrant Morning Market. Return to your hotel for breakfast and some leisure time. In the afternoon, travel to the stunning Kuang Si Waterfall, where turquoise pools and forest trails create a breathtaking natural setting. Visit the Asiatic Black Bear Rescue Centre before stopping at a Hmong cultural exhibition on the return journey. End the day at the Ock Pop Tok Living Crafts Centre, enjoying a spectacular sunset over the Mekong River while discovering traditional Lao textile craftsmanship.

Meal: B Enjoy a relaxed day at your own pace after breakfast. Spend your time exploring Luang Prabang, shopping for local handicrafts, unwinding by the hotel pool, or simply soaking in the town's peaceful atmosphere. No tour services are scheduled today.

Meal: B Flight: TBA Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and some free time at your hotel before your private transfer to the airport for your onward flight. As your unforgettable journey through Laos comes to an end, we wish you a safe journey home and hope to welcome you back again.