DAY 1: VIENTIANE ARRIVAL

We’ll pick you up at the airport and take you to your hotel. You’re free to explore this capital city

Overnight in Vientiane

DAY 2: VIENTIANE – LUANG PRABANG (B)

After breakfast, start on 09:00am we explore Vientiane capital by visiting the major sights of the capital; including the oldest Wat Sisaket with thousands of miniature Buddha statues and the former royal temple of Wat Prakeo, which previously housed the famous Emerald Buddha Image.

En route to Lao’s national precious heritage, the famous and sacred structure of That Luang Stupa, you will have the opportunity to take some pictures of the imposing Patuxay Monument, which is well known as Vientiane’s own Arc de Triumph. We then transfer to the airport for your late afternoon flight to Luang Prabang. Upon arrival in Luang Prabang transfer to the hotel for check in.

Overnight in Luang Prabang

DAY 3: LUANG PRABANG – PAK OU CAVES (B)

After breakfast, on 08:30am we enjoy a short-guided tour seeing visit The National Museum (close Tuesday) at the former Royal Palace, which displays a lovely collection of the artifacts reflecting the richness of Lao culture dating from the days of the early kings right through to the last sovereign. The Central Market is also not to be missed, and the city’s oldest temple of Wat Sene and the magnificent Wat Xiengthong with its roofs sweeping low to the ground, which represents classical Laotian architecture. We also visit the impressive stupa of Wat Visoun.

Then embark on a cruise upstream on the Mekong River to explore the mysterious Pak Ou Caves, two linked caves crammed with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes left by pilgrims. Along the way, we stop at the village of Ban Xanghai, where they make the local rice wine. Upon return to city, climb up to the top of Mount Phousi for an enjoyable exploration of the sacred, gilded stupa as well as a panoramic view of the city at sunset and the Mekong River. From there, we explore the Night Market, where you can find a lovely selection of handmade textiles made by local and hilltribe people surrounding Luang Prabang.

Overnight in Luang Prabang

DAY 4: LUANG PRABANG – KUANGSI WATERFALL (B)

This morning, we rise early to participate in the daily morning rituals of saffron-clad monks collecting offerings from the devotees. This tradition is very unique in Laos, being the only Buddhist nation still preserving the procession. From there, we visit the morning market where you will find diverse offerings such as dried buffalo skin, local tea, hill-tribe weavings and other local poultry, vegetables, and produce. Laos is also known for its traditional crafts, and today you will have the opportunity to visit the local villages of the Lao ethnic minority groups. We carry onto the spectacular Kuangsi waterfalls where you can splash around in the turquoise pools or walk along the forest paths.

Overnight in Luang Prabang

DAY 5: LUANG PRABANG DEPARTURE (B)

After breakfast, visit the local Luang Prabang market for last minute shopping or just relax before we transfer you to airport for departure to next destination.