9 DAYS 8 NIGHTS THE ENCHANTING SOUL OF LAOS

Upon arrival at Wattay International Airport in Vientiane, you will be transferred to your hotel for check-in (early check-in subject to availability).

No activities are scheduled for today, allowing you free time to stroll around the city and explore at your own pace. Overnight in Vientiane.

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

Then drive about 45 minutes to the fascinating Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan), home to more than 200 Buddhist and Hindu sculptures that create a surreal and captivating scene.

Return to the city and visit COPE Visitor Center, an inspiring organization that supports landmine victims. The exhibits offer powerful insights into the impact of unexploded ordnance (UXO) from the war era and the ongoing efforts to help affected communities.

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

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

Nearby, explore Wat Phra Keo, now a religious museum displaying exquisite Lao and Khmer works of art.

End your day along the Mekong River, where you can stroll, relax with a cool drink, or sample local snacks while watching the sunset. Overnight in Vientiane.

DOMESTIC FLIGHT IS NOT INCLUDED

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Xieng Khuang.

Upon arrival, visit the Mulberries Organic Silk Farm, a fair-trade initiative where you can observe the entire silk-making process - from nurturing silkworms to weaving vibrant, hand-dyed scarves.

Continue to the MAG UXO Center and the Official Tourist Information Center to learn more about the region’s history and the ongoing efforts to clear unexploded ordnance left from past conflicts. Overnight in Xieng Khuang.

DOMESTIC FLIGHT IS NOT INCLUDED

In the morning, take a half-day trip to Muang Khoun, the former provincial capital that survived much of the devastation during the Secret War. This historic town is home to a giant sitting Buddha and several ancient pagoda ruins. Visit Wat Pia Wat, where the remaining foundation and columns still stand, and see the nearby That Foun Stupa, a 30-meter structure dating back to the Lan Xang–Lanna period.

Afterward, return to town and explore the fascinating Plain of Jars, an archaeological site scattered with hundreds of massive stone jars believed to be over 2,000 years old. While their exact purpose remains a mystery, the site offers a captivating glimpse into Laos’s ancient history.

You’ll also have the chance to visit nearby Hmong and Tai Dam villages, where locals maintain rich cultural traditions despite their modest living conditions.

Later, transfer to the airport for your flight to Vientiane. Upon arrival, you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel. Overnight in Vientiane.

Early in the morning, depart from the capital for your journey north to Vang Vieng. Along the way, enjoy the breathtaking scenery of rural Laos as you pass through rolling hills, lush countryside, and picturesque villages. Arrive in Vang Vieng around noon.

In the afternoon, begin your exploration with a walk through paddy fields leading to Tham Nangfa (Angel Cave), known for its impressive limestone formations and stunning stalactites. Along the route, take time to interact with local villagers and learn about their traditional way of life.

After visiting the cave, continue to the beautiful Blue Lagoon, where you can relax, swim in the refreshing turquoise water, or explore the peaceful surroundings.

On the way back to town, visit Sae Lao Project, an inspiring community-based initiative focused on sustainable development and education. Learn about their organic farm, community programs, and volunteer efforts that support local residents.

Return to your hotel for a relaxing evening. Overnight in Vang Vieng.

Take the morning train to Luang Prabang, a scenic journey of about one hour. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for a short rest before starting an in-depth walking tour of the city.

Your walk will lead you through the lesser-known streets of the UNESCO World Heritage town, where you can experience the authentic charm of Luang Prabang’s traditional atmosphere. Along the way, your guide will introduce you to the four architectural styles recognized by UNESCO:

1. Traditional Lao houses - made of hardwood or bamboo and raised on stilts.
2. Mixed Lao–French houses - featuring half-wood, half-cement construction from the colonial period.
3. French colonial villas - elegant, classic designs similar to those found in Vietnam and Cambodia.
4. Old Chinese shophouses - built for both living and trading purposes.

Continue with a visit to the Royal Palace Museum, home to a fascinating collection of historical and cultural artifacts. Then, walk to Wat Mai, one of Luang Prabang’s largest and most beautifully decorated temples, renowned for its intricate golden bas-reliefs.

In the late afternoon, climb Mount Phousi to explore its sacred golden stupa and enjoy a panoramic sunset view over the city and the Mekong River.

End the day at the Night Market, where you can browse a wide range of handmade textiles and crafts created by local and hilltribe artisans. Overnight in Luang Prabang.

After breakfast, embark on a leisurely cruise upstream on the Mekong River, enjoying the serene scenery of the countryside along the way. Your journey leads to the mysterious Pak Ou Caves, two connected caves filled with thousands of gold-lacquered Buddha statues of various sizes, left by pilgrims over many centuries.

On the return trip, stop at Ban Xanghai Village, known for producing traditional Lao rice wine, and learn about the local distillation process.

Back in Luang Prabang, visit some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, starting with Wat Sene, the oldest temple in town, followed by the magnificent Wat Xiengthong, a masterpiece of classical Laotian architecture featuring graceful sweeping roofs and intricate mosaics.

Continue to Heuan Chan Heritage House, a beautifully restored 19th-century aristocratic mansion offering an insightful glimpse into Lao culture through traditional ceremonies, textiles, and family life. Enjoy a cup of authentic Lao coffee or tea in its peaceful setting.

If time allows, drive out to Ban Xangkhong, a Thai Lue village renowned for traditional weaving and handicrafts, and visit Ban Xienglek, where villagers make handmade Saa paper from mulberry bark.

End your day by joining the locals for a friendly petanque game in the nearby village - a fun and social way to experience local life. Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Wake up at sunrise to take part in Laos’ most sacred tradition — the daily morning alms giving ceremony, which dates back to the 14th century. Watch as more than 200 Buddhist monks walk silently through the streets to collect food offerings from local residents.

Next, visit the lively morning market near the former Royal Palace, where locals trade fresh produce, meat, and fish right on the ground — a fascinating glimpse of daily life in Luang Prabang.

After breakfast, head to the Buffalo Dairy Farm, an enjoyable and educational stop for both adults and children, where you can learn about sustainable farming and even feed the buffalo.

Continue to the stunning Kuang Si Waterfalls, the largest in the area, cascading through three tiers into turquoise pools perfect for swimming and relaxation. You can also visit the nearby Bear Rescue Center, home to rescued Asiatic black bears, and the Butterfly Park, where you can unwind with afternoon tea and homemade cookies surrounded by colorful butterflies.

On the way back to town, stop at the Ock Pop Tok Living Craft Center, a serene riverside workshop where local artisans weave, spin, and create beautiful textiles using traditional Lao techniques. Free guided tours are available every half hour. Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Enjoy some free time to stroll around Luang Prabang at your own pace, soaking in the town’s peaceful atmosphere and charming streets before transferring to the airport for your departure flight.