12 DAYS 11 NIGHTS TIMELESS BEAUTY OF LAOS

Upon arrival at Luang Prabang Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for check-in.

Located in the heart of northern Laos, Luang Prabang is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its remarkable blend of cultural, historical, and architectural significance, as well as its harmonious balance between nature and tradition.

After a short rest, take some time to stroll around the old town, soaking in the tranquil charm and colonial-era atmosphere of this ancient city.

In the late afternoon, experience a private Baci ceremony hosted by a local family. This traditional Lao ritual, symbolizing good luck and spiritual harmony, offers a meaningful and memorable insight into the country’s deep-rooted cultural heritage. Overnight in Luang Prabang.

After breakfast, visit the Royal Palace Museum, built in 1904 during the French colonial era for King Sisavang Vong and his family.

Then, embark on a leisurely cruise upstream on the Mekong River, taking in the serene beauty of the countryside before reaching the Pak Ou Caves, two sacred caverns filled with thousands of gold-lacquered Buddha statues of varying sizes, left by pilgrims over centuries.

On the return journey, stop at Ban Xanghai Village, known for producing traditional Lao rice wine.

Back in Luang Prabang, explore Wat Sene, one of the city’s oldest temples, followed by the magnificent Wat Xiengthong, an architectural masterpiece featuring elegant sweeping roofs and intricate mosaics, including the famous Tree of Life glass mural on its rear wall.

Continue to Heuan Chan Heritage House, a beautifully restored 19th-century aristocratic mansion that offers a glimpse into traditional Lao culture through exhibits on family life, rituals, and textiles. Conclude your visit with a cup of authentic Lao coffee or tea in the tranquil courtyard.

In the late afternoon, stop at Wat Prabath to enjoy a peaceful sunset view over the city.

End the day exploring the vibrant Night Market, where local and hilltribe artisans display their handmade textiles and crafts. Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Wake up at sunrise to take part in Laos’ most sacred tradition - the daily alms-giving ceremony, which dates back to the 14th century. Witness more than 200 Buddhist monks walking silently through the streets to collect offerings from local residents in a serene, time-honored ritual.

Afterward, explore the lively morning market near the former Royal Palace, where locals sell fresh produce, handmade crafts, and textiles - a wonderful glimpse into Luang Prabang’s daily life.

Return to your hotel for breakfast before climbing the 329 steps up Mount Phousi for a panoramic view over the city and the Mekong River.

Next, drive to the magnificent Kuang Si Waterfall, the largest in the area, where cascading turquoise pools offer a perfect place to swim or simply relax in nature. You can also take a short walk to the nearby Ban Thapene Village to discover hidden waterfalls rarely visited by other travelers, or visit the Bear Rescue Center, home to rescued Asiatic black bears.

On the way back to town, stop at the Ock Pop Tok Living Craft Center, peacefully located by the Mekong River. Learn about traditional weaving and textile-making, and use the complimentary audio guide to understand its role in preserving Lao culture and craftsmanship.

Transfer back to your hotel in the late afternoon. Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Optional experiences:

• Visit the Buffalo Dairy Farm on the way to Kuang Si for a fun and educational stop, especially enjoyable for families with kids.
• Stop at the Butterfly Park after Kuang Si, where you can enjoy afternoon tea and homemade cookies surrounded by a peaceful garden full of colorful butterflies.

Depart from your hotel at 8:30 AM and transfer to Nahm Dong Park, located in Ban Xiengmouk, about 10 km from the city center.

Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed by the park manager, who will give a brief introduction before starting the morning’s adventure. Begin with an exhilarating zipline ride flying over the jungle and waterfalls, offering stunning views of the lush evergreen landscape. The activity lasts around 1 hour.

Afterward, enjoy a jungle trek along scenic trails that cross hanging bridges, small streams, and crystal-clear natural pools - perfect for a refreshing dip if you wish.

A picnic lunch will be served at the park’s scenic viewpoint, where you can take in panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including a distant glimpse of Mount Phousi in Luang Prabang.

Spend the afternoon relaxing in nature - wander around the park, unwind in one of the shaded huts, or cool off in the natural pools.

Note: Zipline lasts about 1 hour; trekking time ranges from 1 to 3 hours, depending on the chosen route.

Later, your driver will transfer you to the train station for your speed train journey to Vang Vieng (approximately 1 hour).

Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel in town. Overnight in Vang Vieng.

Today, enjoy a full day of adventure surrounded by the natural beauty of Vang Vieng.

Start with a visit to Tham Jang Cave, a historic site that once served as a refuge for locals during the Chinese invasion over two centuries ago.

Continue to Tham Nangfa (Angel Cave), famous for its vast limestone formations and spectacular stalactites. The cave’s ethereal beauty makes it a perfect place for photos or peaceful reflection. For thrill-seekers, an optional zipline ride offers a breathtaking aerial view of the landscape (additional charge: $19 per person).

After exploring the caves, head to Blue Lagoon 3, a serene natural pool surrounded by lush greenery. Enjoy swimming, relaxing, or simply soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.

In the afternoon, transfer directly to Ban Thaheua, located on the northern shore of Nam Ngum Lake, also known as the “Sea of Laos.”

Upon arrival, check in to your lakeside bungalow and spend the rest of the day at leisure, relaxing by the water or enjoying the peaceful surroundings. Overnight in Ban Thaheua.

10:00 AM: Embark on your sala boat from the Sanctuary Nam Ngum pier and begin cruising among the lake’s tranquil islands. Observe the peaceful life along the banks and learn about local fishing methods and rice production in this scenic region of Laos.

11:45 AM: The boat will dock at one of the islands, where a BBQ lunch will be served. Enjoy swimming in the refreshing lake waters or try your hand at traditional fishing alongside the locals.

1:30 PM: Continue your cruise back toward the resort, passing through clusters of islands while learning about the dried fish preservation techniques practiced in the area.

2:00 PM: Arrive back at the Sanctuary Nam Ngum Beach Holiday Village Resort.

Afterward, continue your journey south to Vientiane, stopping at a local market along the way where various hill tribes gather to trade goods and daily provisions.

Arrive in Vientiane by sunset, just in time to enjoy the evening atmosphere along the Mekong River. Overnight in Vientiane.

In the morning, begin your exploration with a visit to Wat Si Muang, a temple famed for its supernatural powers and spiritual significance among locals.

Then drive about 45 minutes to the fascinating Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan), an extraordinary site filled with over 200 Buddhist and Hindu sculptures that create a surreal and captivating landscape.

Return to the city and visit COPE Visitor Center, an inspiring organization dedicated to helping landmine victims. The exhibits here provide deep insight into the legacy of the American/Vietnam War and the ongoing work to remove unexploded ordnance (UXO) across Laos.

In the afternoon, visit That Luang, the most sacred monument in Laos. Built in the 16th century under King Setthathirat, its towering golden stupa gleams beautifully under the sunlight.

Next, climb the Patuxay Monument, Vientiane’s version of the Arc de Triomphe, for a panoramic view of the city. Continue along Lane Xang Avenue to Wat Sisaket, the only temple that survived the Siamese invasion of 1828, renowned for its thousands of Buddha images.

Nearby, explore Wat Phra Keo, now a museum showcasing an exquisite collection of Lao and Khmer religious art.

As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Mekong River, stopping to relax with a cool drink or sample local snacks from the riverside stalls. Overnight in Vientiane.

Optional: Visit the Sinouk Coffee Pavilion to learn about Lao coffee culture, see the roasting process, and enjoy a freshly brewed cup of coffee or tea. (Entrance and drinks payable on site.)

DOMESTIC FLIGHT IS NOT INCLUDED

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Pakse, the largest city in southern Laos.

Upon arrival, head east toward the Bolaven Plateau, a region renowned for its cool climate, lush greenery, and fertile soil high above the Mekong Valley.

Your first stop is at a tea plantation, followed by a visit to the stunning Tad Fan Waterfall, famous for its dramatic twin cascades plunging into a deep gorge.

Continue to Ban Lak Sipchet Village, known for traditional iron knife making, and Ban Lak Samsip Village, where locals skillfully weave bamboo baskets.

If time allows, visit Tad Yeung Waterfall, where you can take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear natural pool at its base.

End the day with a stop at a coffee plantation, learning about the region’s rich coffee-growing heritage before reaching your accommodation on the plateau. Overnight in the Bolaven Plateau.

After breakfast, visit the lively Tha Teng ethnic minority food market, where locals from nearby villages gather to trade fresh produce and traditional goods.

Continue your journey to explore two fascinating ethnic communities: Ban Bong Neua, an Alak village known for its distinctive sacrificial altar, and Ban Kokphung, a Katu village where families traditionally store coffins beneath their houses, reflecting their deep spiritual beliefs and customs.

In the afternoon, travel to the ancient Wat Phou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Southeast Asia’s most remarkable pre-Angkorian temple complexes. Dating back to the 5th century, Wat Phou was once a major center of the Khmer Empire, long before the construction of Angkor Wat. Set against a backdrop of verdant rice fields and serene waterways, the temple’s sacred terraces and intricate carvings create a truly awe-inspiring atmosphere.

After exploring this magnificent site, continue to Done Khong Island, the largest island in the Si Phan Don (4,000 Islands) region. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, relaxing or exploring the island’s peaceful surroundings. Overnight on Done Khong Island.

In the morning, embark on a 1.5-hour tail boat journey to explore the mighty Mekong River at its widest stretch, known as Si Phan Don or “The 4,000 Islands.” During the dry season, the receding waters reveal a stunning landscape dotted with countless small islets.

Upon arrival, visit Ban Khone Village, where traces of the French colonial era remain. Stroll along quiet lanes lined with old colonial buildings and see remnants of the first Lao railway, including a vintage locomotive that once transported goods between the islands.

Continue your island exploration by tuk-tuk, heading to the spectacular Liphi Waterfall (also called Samphamith), a natural border between Laos and Cambodia. This powerful cascade is one of the most scenic spots in the region, surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil views.

On your way back, stop by a local pagoda to learn about the spiritual life of the island’s residents and admire the elegant temple architecture.

End the afternoon with a leisurely walk through the village, taking in the rhythms of local life. If you prefer, bicycles are available for rent (at your own expense) — a perfect way to explore more of the island and enjoy a sunset ride through its peaceful landscapes.

Overnight on Khone Island, surrounded by the calm and beauty of the Mekong.

After breakfast, board a boat back to the mainland at Ban Nakasang, a lively fishing village, before continuing your journey south to the magnificent Khone Phapheng Waterfall - the largest waterfall by volume in Southeast Asia.

Located near the Lao–Cambodian border, Khone Phapheng is a truly breathtaking natural wonder, surrounded by lush vegetation and rich wildlife. The thunderous cascades and mist rising from the falls make it one of the most spectacular sights in Laos.

After exploring the falls, drive back to Pakse, the capital of Champasak Province. Founded by the French in 1905 as an administrative outpost, Pakse is now a vibrant town situated at the confluence of the Mekong and Se Don Rivers.

In the afternoon, visit Ban Khoh Village, well-known for its traditional stone carving craftsmanship. From there, take a short walk to Wat Chomphet, home to the largest sitting Buddha statue in Laos.

As the day draws to a close, ascend Wat Phou Salao Hill to enjoy a panoramic sunset view over Pakse and the surrounding countryside - a perfect way to end the day. Overnight in Pakse.

After breakfast, transfer directly to Ubon Ratchathani (Thailand) via the Chongmek Border to catch your flight to Bangkok and connect with your departure flight home.