Laos to Northern Thailand: Treks & Trails - 14 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What kind of experience can I expect on the 'Laos to Northern Thailand: Treks & Trails' tour?

  This tour offers an affordable experience for young travelers (18-39) to explore Laos and Thailand. You'll trek through lush terrain, visit diverse hilltribe villages, enjoy classic Mekong sunsets, and experience local culture, with plenty of free time at every stop to help you make the most of it.

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  Highlights include hiking along Vang Vieng's limestone karsts, discovering the serenity of Luang Prabang with a sunset trek to Wat Phousi and visiting the Kuang Si Waterfalls, staying overnight in a local village along the Mekong River with a traditional cultural performance, bargaining for goods at a night market, hiking through forests to explore local villages, and bamboo rafting.

• What is the physical rating of this tour?

  The tour has a physical rating of 3, meaning an average level of fitness and mobility is required. Travelers must be able to walk without aid, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage at a minimum.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 18 travelers, with an average of 12.

• Who will be leading our group during the tour?

  All group trips are accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) who will provide information, suggestions for activities and eating venues, and introduce you to local friends. Local guides are also used for specific knowledge, and trekking staff will be with you during the trekking portions.

• What type of accommodation is provided on this trip?

  Accommodation is varied and includes simple hotels (twin-share for 7 nights, multi-share for 2 nights), a village homestay (1 night), basic Hilltribe huts (2 nights), and a sleeper train (1 night). The majority of accommodation will have shared bathroom facilities. For the homestay, sleeping arrangements are multi-share in the central living area with mattresses, blankets, pillows, and mosquito nets provided.

• Is there an option for a single room?

  Yes, if you book the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive your own single room for all night stops where available. However, for multi-share hostel nights, single rooming requests cannot be guaranteed.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 10 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 3 dinners. Generally, other meals are not included to provide flexibility in choosing where and what to eat, but your CEO will be able to suggest local restaurants.

• Are vegetarian options available?

  Yes, vegetarians will be able to find a range of different foods, although in some areas the choice may be limited. While trekking in remote regions, food is included, plentiful, and made of fresh local ingredients.

• What currencies will I need for this tour, and how should I carry my money?

  You will use Vietnamese Dong, Laos Kip, and Thai Baht. The best way to carry your money is in debit cards, withdrawing local currency from ATM machines (Visa and Mastercard networks are widely accepted). USD cash is recommended for emergency situations when ATMs are not accessible. Please ensure US dollar notes are new and in good condition (notes older than 2003 or with tears may not be accepted).

• How much emergency money should I bring?

  You should have access to at least an additional USD $250 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside of control (e.g., natural disaster) require a change to the planned route. This is a rare occurrence.

• Is tipping customary in Asia?

  Yes, it is customary in Asia to tip service providers such as waiters (approximately 10%). Tipping drivers and local guides is also expected, with recommendations ranging from $1.5-$3.5 USD per person per day. Tipping your CEO is appreciated, with a guideline of $20-25 USD per person, per week.

• Are there any health considerations or required inoculations for this trip?

  Inoculations may be required for the countries visited. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend carrying a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers. Our CEOs are prohibited from administering any type of drug. Please complete a short medical questionnaire if you have a pre-existing medical condition.

• What are the safety precautions and rules on this trip?

  We recommend using a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and a lock for luggage. Valuable jewelry should be left at home. Many hotels have safety deposit boxes. Illegal drugs and exploitation of prostitutes are not tolerated. Your CEO has the authority to amend itineraries due to safety concerns and will accompany all included activities. During free time, use good judgment, stay in small groups at night, and take taxis. Do not jump or dive into Kuang Si Waterfalls due to potential injury.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory to participate in any of our trips. It must include medical coverage with a minimum of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. Your CEO will require evidence of your travel insurance.

• How should I dress to respect local customs, especially when visiting holy sites?

  In Asia, the dress standard is more conservative. Pack loose, lightweight, long clothing that will keep you cool. When visiting temples or other holy sites in predominantly Buddhist, Hindu, and Muslim countries, please dress respectfully and avoid very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tank tops.

• What is traditional Laotian alms-giving to monks?

  Traditional Laotian culture involves giving daily alms to monks. Monks are only allowed to eat food donated to them before noon. If you rise early, you'll have the opportunity to witness this important religious ceremony.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. You should confirm with your booking agent, as some combo tours traveling between two different countries might include specific flights.

• What happens if I miss the Welcome Meeting on Day 1?

  If you are arriving later and will miss the Welcome Meeting, your CEO will leave a note at reception for you with any information you may need and morning instructions for the next day.

• Are there laundry facilities available during the trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry, so we suggest bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap.

• What is Planeterra?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn an income from tourism. They develop and support community-owned businesses that empower local people and protect the environment. The tour operator is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, so 100% of any donation will directly support their projects.

• Are there any specific train regulations in Laos I should be aware of?

  Yes, Laos High-Speed Train regulations prohibit flammable materials & liquids (aerosols will be taken away at security), sharp objects, explosive materials (e.g., vapes & e-cigarettes, spray-on deodorant), wet or overpowering smelling foods, weapons, and drugs. There is a luggage limit of 20kg per person on the high-speed train.

• Will the trekking route always be the same?

  The exact itinerary of the walking on this trip may change from time to time, taking into account the weather and local conditions. A 2-week period of traditional slash-and-burn farming occurs between March and April, during which an alternate route may be used to avoid smoky areas. Be prepared for basic accommodation during the trek for an authentic experience.

• What optional activities are available during the tour?

  Optional activities include Wat Pha That Luang visit in Vientiane, hiking, caving, bike rental, Vang Vieng Adrenaline Bundle (kayaking) in Vang Vieng, various temple visits (Phousi, Royal Palace Museum, Wat Xien Thong, Wat Visoun), Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre Entry, cooking classes, and Ock Pop Tok Living Crafts Centre Visit (free) in Luang Prabang. In Chiang Mai, you can visit Doi Suthep Temple, take a Northern Thai Cooking Class, enjoy a Street Food Walk at Chiang Mai Night Market, do a Chiang Mai Cycling Tour, or get a massage.