Hike & Explore Northern Laos - 10 Days

Once you have arrived in Vientiane, make your way to the hotel for check-in. You will then have the rest of the day at your leisure to explore at your own pace, grab a meal at a local restaurant, grab a coffee at a cafe, or relax.

Vientiane - Vang Vieng. Today, we’ll meet our tour guide in the hotel lobby at 8:00am to begin a fascinating exploration of Vientiane, a city where French colonial charm blends with deep-rooted Laotian heritage. We’ll start at Vat Sisaket, the capital’s oldest surviving temple, known for its unique Thai-influenced design and thousands of Buddha statues. Next, we’ll stroll through the peaceful gardens of Vat Phra Keo, a graceful temple rebuilt in the 1940s. At the iconic Pha That Louang, we’ll admire its golden stupa, a symbol of the nation’s spiritual and royal legacy, before finishing with panoramic city views from the top of the Patuxay Arch.

In the afternoon, we’ll travel by private vehicle to Vang Vieng, arriving by mid-afternoon. We’ll then take a short walk to a scenic viewpoint with sweeping views of the region’s striking limestone peaks. As the sun begins to set, we’ll pause to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the changing colours across the landscape. With the town below, it’s a perfect spot to take in the natural beauty. After descending with our guide, you’ll have the rest of the evening free to relax and explore Vang Vieng at your own pace.

Hiking distance & duration: 0.6 km / 30 mins

Elevation: +131m

Vang Vieng - Khmu Village - Vang Vieng. After breakfast, we’ll meet our tour guide in the hotel lobby at 9:00 AM before setting off by tuk-tuk for a gentle ride down the Nam Song River, surrounded by Vang Vieng’s striking limestone scenery. Our journey brings us to a riverside village where we’ll spend the day learning about daily life in a Khmu community. We’ll begin by visiting an elderly blacksmith who still practises traditional techniques passed down through generations. After observing his craft, we’ll have the opportunity to step in and try our hand at the process under his guidance.

We’ll continue to the home of a local Khmu family, where we’re warmly welcomed to share a traditional lunch, either in their home or shaded garden. As we eat, we’ll learn more about Khmu customs and the animist beliefs that shape their way of life, as well as those of other ethnic communities in Laos. After some time with the family, we’ll discover how they brew “Lao Hai,” a traditional rice wine. In the afternoon, we’ll walk with our guide through rice fields to a nearby cave, passing farmers at work. We’ll pause at a simple farm hut to sample the rice wine and talk about the central role of agriculture in Lao culture. Returning to the village, we’ll bid farewell to our generous hosts before heading back to Vang Vieng. You will have the rest of the day at leisure.

Activity duration: Approximately 7-8 hours (9:00 - 16:30)

Vang Vieng - Luang Prabang. In the morning, we’ll be picked up and transferred to the Vang Vieng train station for our journey to Luang Prabang. Upon arrival, our guide will greet us and begin our introduction to one of Southeast Asia’s most enchanting cities. Nestled between the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers and backed by a range of forested mountains, Luang Prabang is renowned for its tranquil beauty and cultural richness. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995, the city is celebrated for its unique blend of traditional Lao design and elegant colonial architecture.

Our city tour begins at the Royal Palace, now the National Museum, home to a fascinating collection of items once owned by the royal family, along with religious artefacts and temple relics from across the region. At its heart is the revered Phrabang Buddha, a sacred symbol that gives the city its name and offers a deeper insight into Laos’ spiritual heritage.

Next, we’ll explore Heuan Chan Heritage House, a beautifully preserved traditional Lao home over a century old. Located on Luang Prabang’s historic peninsula, the house has been converted into a museum that offers insight into Lao life and architecture during the colonial era. It’s a fascinating example of how traditional wooden structures blend with French influences, reflecting the city’s unique cultural evolution.

We’ll then visit Vat Xieng Thong, one of Luang Prabang’s most revered temples and a prime example of classical Laotian artistry. This sacred complex is rich with intricate carvings, golden motifs, and elegant rooftops. In the afternoon, we’ll head to Ock Pop Tok’s Weaving Craft Centre, where we’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Laos’ textile heritage. A guided visit reveals the full process of silk weaving, natural dyeing, bamboo work, and batik. Afterwards, you’ll have time to stroll through the peaceful garden with its beautiful views over the Mekong River.

Please note: You must show your passport and train ticket to enter and exit the station, and again on the train. Airport-style security is in place, and any dangerous or flammable items such as spray cans, knives, alcohol, or mosquito sprays will be confiscated.

Luang Prabang - Ban Nong Heo - Ban Thapene - Sa paper village - Luang Prabang. Today, we’ll set out early at around 5:30 AM with our guide to witness the Tak Bat ceremony, a deeply spiritual tradition in Luang Prabang. In quiet reverence, locals offer food to monks who move silently through the streets in their saffron robes. Following this meaningful experience, we’ll visit a bustling morning market, alive with the sounds and colours of daily life. We will then return to our hotel to enjoy breakfast and unwind.

After driving from Luang Prabang, we’ll arrive in Ban Nong Heo, a peaceful Khmu village where we’ll have time to explore its traditional homes, spot water buffalo and ducks roaming freely, and observe daily life as farmers and blacksmiths go about their work. From there, our local guide will lead us on a gentle hike through the countryside, passing through forested hills and plantations with scenic views along the way. We might even stop to taste fresh sugar cane straight from the field. Our walk ends at Ban Thapene, the gateway to the stunning Kuang Sy Waterfalls.

This afternoon, we’ll visit a nearby village known for its traditional Sa paper making, a craft that uses the bark of the mulberry tree to create beautiful handmade paper. This age-old process, still preserved in parts of Laos, showcases the country’s strong ties to nature and sustainable practices. After learning about the methods and watching the artisans at work, we’ll return to our hotel.

In the evening between 5 and 6 PM, you’ll have the option to join a guided culinary walking tour that introduces you to the flavours of Lao cuisine and its rich food culture. As you make your way through the city centre and quieter backstreets, you’ll taste popular local dishes such as Khao Soi or Pho, savoury Salapao buns, and the sweet, refreshing Namvan. You’ll continue with spring rolls and cucumber salad, often enjoyed with friends over an evening drink. The tour concludes at the night market, where you can try delicious street snacks like Kaojee and Khao Nom Kok.

Hiking distance and duration: 4 km / 1 hour and 30 mins

Please note: Guests will travel to see Tak Bath ceremony from around 05:30 to 06:30 As a guest attending this tradition, you are recommended not to wear revealing clothing Please do not cross the monk’s path and take photos from a distance to show your respect Please also maintain a quiet atmosphere.

Luang Prabang - Ban Muang Keo - Pak Ou - Luang Prabang. After breakfast, we’ll take a scenic drive through the countryside to Ban Muang Keo, a tranquil village where we’ll learn the traditional Lao art of floral offerings. Guided by locals, we’ll discover the techniques and symbolism behind these meaningful arrangements. We’ll then visit a peaceful temple nearby to soak in the spiritual atmosphere and receive a blessing from a monk, offering a moment of quiet reflection.

Next, we’ll stop at another village to meet local residents and get a feel for daily life in rural Laos. From there, we’ll head to a picturesque riverside spot to enjoy an aperitif while taking in the serene views of the Mekong. A delicious lunch of traditional Lao dishes awaits, followed by a cup of locally grown coffee to complete the meal.

In the afternoon, we’ll set off on a gentle 30-minute forest walk to reach the Pak Ou Caves through a lesser-known path. These remarkable caverns, filled with thousands of Buddha statues, are steeped in history and spiritual meaning. We’ll end our day with a relaxing boat ride back to Luang Prabang, cruising along the Mekong and soaking up the peaceful surroundings.

Luang Prabang - Oudomxay.This morning, around 8:30 AM, our driver will collect us from the hotel and take us to the railway station for our train journey from Luang Prabang to Oudomxay. On arrival, we’ll leave the bustle behind and take in the calm of the surrounding forests. Nestled in protected woodland along the Nam Kat River, Namkat Yorla Pa is a peaceful retreat and a leading eco-tourism destination in northern Laos.

The afternoon and evening are yours to enjoy at leisure. You can choose to relax at the lodge or book one of the many on-site activities available through the resort.

Please note: You must show your passport and train ticket to enter and exit the station, and again on the train. Airport-style security is in place, and any dangerous or flammable items such as spray cans, knives, alcohol, or mosquito sprays will be confiscated.

Oudomxay - Ikhos village - Hmong Village - Oudomxay. Today, we’ll meet our local guide and set off into the hills to visit remote Ikhos and Hmong villages, two of Laos’ many ethnic communities. As we ascend to over 1,000 metres, we’ll enjoy sweeping views of the mountain landscape. Our first stop is a secluded Ikhos village, whose people trace their roots to Tibet and China’s Yunnan province. Here, we’ll learn about their traditional lifestyle and customs that have been passed down for generations.

We’ll pause for a picnic lunch surrounded by stunning scenery. Afterwards, there’s an optional short walk to a former Hmong village offering panoramic 360° views. We’ll then continue to a living Hmong village, where we’ll discover more about their daily life, their Tibetan heritage, and their strong connection to livestock. By late afternoon, we’ll return to the resort to relax after a day of cultural discovery.

walking distance and duration: 2 km / 20 minutes

Oudomxay - Luang Prabang. Our morning adventure takes us deep into the forest as we follow winding roads to the start of a jungle trail. From there, we’ll set off on foot, navigating narrow paths and suspended bridges as we make our way to a secluded waterfall. Once there, you can take time to rest or enjoy a refreshing dip in the cool water. The return walk follows a different trail, completing a scenic loop before we head back to the resort.

In the afternoon, our driver will take us to Oudomxay station for the train journey back to Luang Prabang. Upon arrival, another driver will meet us at the station and transfer us to our hotel for check-in.

Please note: You must show your passport and train ticket to enter and exit the station, and again on the train. Airport-style security is in place, and any dangerous or flammable items such as spray cans, knives, alcohol, or mosquito sprays will be confiscated.

Walking distance and duration: 2 km / 2 hours

After your final breakfast, depending on your departure flight time, you may have some time to further explore Luang Prabang, enjoy some last-minute shopping or relaxation before checking out of the hotel by 12 PM and making your way to the airport for your onward flight.

Alternatively, you can opt to spend the day getting up close with one of Laos’ most iconic animals. With private transfers from your hotel, you’ll arrive at the Elephant Village Camp, where you’ll be welcomed with a short introduction to the elephants and the conservation work carried out at the camp. An English-speaking guide will accompany you throughout the experience. You’ll then enjoy a scenic longtail boat ride to Tad Sae Waterfall, where you can relax or take a swim in the natural pools.

After some time to unwind, you’ll return to the camp for a delicious lunch at the on-site restaurant, with vegetarian options available. Once the experience ends, your driver will take you back to your hotel in Luang Prabang.

Please note:Guests should bring suitable clothes, a backpack, comfortable walking shoes (no flip-flops/sandals). Tad Sae Waterfall is typically dry from January to June. Elephant bathing is optional and requires an additional fee. The experience runs from 8:30 AM to approximately 1:00 PM, so a departure flight after 17:00 is recommended.