Laos Escapade: Colonial Elegance and Natural Splendors 14 Days

Welcome to Luang Prabang! Upon your arrival at Luang Prabang International Airport, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel. After checking in and taking some time to unwind, we will visit the city’s oldest temples. Admire the exquisite Wat Xiengthong, known for its low-sweeping roof and classical Lao architecture, the striking stupa of Wat Visoun, and the serene Wat Aham shrine. Ascend Mount Phousi to explore its sacred gilded stupa and relish panoramic views of Luang Prabang and the Mekong River as the sun sets. As you descend, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Luang Prabang Night Market, where you can browse unique handmade textiles and handicrafts by local artisans. Your evening is free to explore the market and sample traditional Lao cuisine at one of the town’s restaurants.

After breakfast, visit the Arts and Ethnology Centre to gain insights into Laos’ diverse ethnic cultures. Enjoy a coffee at the center’s café before embarking on a scenic cruise up the Mekong RIVER to the enigmatic Pak Ou Caves. These caves, a revered pilgrimage site, house thousands of gold lacquered Buddha images accumulated over centuries. Return to Luang Prabang and have the option to either visit Ban Phanom, a village renowned for its hand weaving, or relax at the hotel. The rest of your afternoon and evening are at leisure to explore Luang Prabang, enjoy drinks by the riverfront, or relax at your hotel.

Begin your day with a visit to the Royal Palace Museum, showcasing fascinating artifacts from the Luang Prabang Royal era. Proceed to Khouangsi Waterfall, making a stop at Phousi Market, where locals shop for daily essentials. At the waterfall, cool off in the turquoise pools, stroll along the forest trails, and visit the Bear Sanctuary. Return to Luang Prabang by mid-afternoon and enjoy free time for a spa treatment, shopping at the Night Market, or relaxing at the hotel.

Set out early for a scenic drive to Xieng Khouang Province, home to the renowned Plain of Jars. Enjoy breathtaking views and stops at hill tribe villages along the way. After checking into your hotel in Phonsavan, take time to explore the town, visit the MAG Centre, or unwind with a drink at the hotel.

Explore the Plain of Jars with visits to Sites 1, 2, and 3, and a short trek to local Tai Dam and Lao Leum villages. Depart Xieng Khouang for a scenic drive to Vang Vieng, nestled along the Nam Song River. Arrive in Vang Vieng by evening and enjoy the stunning scenery and limestone formations.

Start your day with a visit to the local market and a short rafting adventure on the Nam Song River. Explore the Tham Jang Cave, historically used as a defense against Chinese invaders. Bid farewell to Vang Vieng and drive to Vientiane, the capital city known for its blend of Lao, Thai, Chinese, Vietnamese, and French influences. After checking into your hotel, your evening is free to explore the town or relax.

Enjoy a free morning to explore Vientiane at your own pace or treat yourself to a spa treatment. In the afternoon, embark on a city tour to see major highlights, including Wat Sisaket with its thousands of miniature Buddha statues, the former royal temple Wat Prakeo, and the iconic That Luang Stupa. Visit the Patuxay Monument, Vientiane’s version of the Arc de Triomphe, and the COPE Center, which supports UXO survivors. Your evening is free to relax at the waterfront, explore the Night Market, or enjoy the local nightlife.

Depart early for Khammouane Province, making several stops to appreciate the stunning scenery. Arrive in Ban Na Hin, the gateway to Khong Lor Cave, by late afternoon. Explore this charming village and learn about its local culture and lifestyle.

Take a short drive to the impressive Khong Lor Cave, where a motorized canoe ride reveals the cave’s limestone formations and a vast 100-meter high cavern. On your return to Ban Na Hin, visit That Mouang and That Namsanam Waterfalls.

Travel south to Pakse, with a stop for lunch in Savanakhet. This bustling trade center features old French colonial architecture and a charming atmosphere. Arrive in Pakse by late afternoon and enjoy some free time to explore.

Head to the Bolevan Plateau for its refreshing mountain climate and renowned waterfalls. Visit Tad Fan with its twin cascades and Tad Ngeuan with its pristine pools. Along the way, see the rich agricultural lands cultivating coffee, tea, cardamom, and bananas. Explore the villages of Alak, Nge, and Katu before overnighting in Tad Lo.

After breakfast, drive towards Champasak and the 4000 Islands area. Cross the Mekong River by ferry to visit Wat Phu, a dramatic pre-Angkorian temple. Continue by road and ferry to Don Khong, where you can explore the island by bicycle or relax as the sun sets over the Mekong.

Cruise through the 4000 Islands region to Done Khone by long-tail boat. Explore Ban Khone with its French colonial buildings and the first Lao railway. Visit Liphi Waterfall, known as “Corridor of the Devil,” and potentially spot rare freshwater Irrawaddy Dolphins at Ban Hang Khone.

Take a local boat to Ban Nakasung and drive to the Laos-Cambodia border. En route, marvel at Khone Phapheng Waterfall, Southeast Asia’s largest waterfall. The tour concludes with your transfer to the Laos-Cambodia border at Veukham or Dong Kalor for departure.