Laos to Thailand: Night Markets & Mekong Cruising - 11 Days



Who is this trip for
Genders
- Female76%
- Male24%
Average age
Start / End
- Vientiane
- Bangkok
Physical rating
Group size
1 - 18Meals included
10Highlights
- Immerse yourself in the vibrant sensory tapestry of Vientiane's Mekong River night market, where bustling stalls offer local delicacies and unique souvenirs under the starlit sky, setting the scene for your Southeast Asian adventure.
- Discover the breathtaking beauty of Vang Vieng, a picturesque town framed by dramatic limestone karsts and the serene Song River. Embark on a guided hike to a stunning viewpoint, offering unparalleled panoramic vistas that require no filter.
- Experience the spiritual heart of Laos in Luang Prabang, witnessing the ethereal spectacle of saffron-robed monks receiving daily alms at dawn, followed by a refreshing excursion to the multi-tiered, turquoise cascades of Kuang Si waterfalls.
- Embark on a tranquil two-day slow boat cruise along the majestic Mekong River, drifting through stunning landscapes. Experience authentic Laotian hospitality with a memorable village homestay, complete with a traditional Baci welcome ceremony and dinner with your local hosts.
- Explore the serene and culturally rich city of Chiang Mai, nestled amidst northern Thailand's mountains. Wander through bustling traditional markets, admire glorious temples, and uncover hidden gems at the famous night bazaar.
- Dive into the exhilarating heart of Bangkok, Thailand's dynamic capital, a city that pulses with endless colour and character. Discover majestic temples, grand palaces, and enjoy a unique perspective of daily life with a captivating klong riverboat trip.
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Summary
Now's the time to explore Laos and Thailand on your terms with this tour that's affordable for young travellers. Wander the tranquil monasteries of Luang Prabang, admire the limestone karsts surrounding Vang Vieng before taking a slow boat down the Mekong, and explore the streets of Bangkok, a city that pulses with endless colour and character. See a side of Southeast Asia like you've never seen before.
Itinerary
Day 1
Vientiane
Arrive at any time and welcome to Vientiane, Laos' laid-back capital.
After meeting your CEO and fellow travellers this evening, wander through the bustling night market along the Mekong River. Pick up a street beer or tea as you browse through the stalls of souvenirs and local delicacies. Follow your CEO to grab the best street food — or, you know, follow your nose.
Day 2
Vientiane/Vang Vieng
Travel to Vang Vieng, a small town nestled among striking limestone karsts and the Song River. Take a guided hike to a famous local view point for incredible views of the valley — no filter necessary. This evening, enjoy a night out to celebrate new adventures with new friends. Cheers to keeping life exciting!
Day 3
Vang Vieng
Pre-book the "Vang Vieng Adrenaline Bundle" on the checkout page ahead of time to include this excitement on your tour.
Day 4
Vang Vieng/Luang Prabang
Continue to colourful Luang Prabang and make your first acquaintance with this ancient city during an afternoon orientation walk. Afterward, embark on a short trek up sacred Mount Phousi, climbing the stone stairs with scaly golden handrails, past the monks quarters and Buddha's footprint cave, to reach the temple at the top - Wat Phousi. Enjoy a 360-degree view of the sun setting upon Luang Prabang and the Mekong River before an evening street food crawl.
Day 5
Luang Prabang
Skip sleeping in to watch the monks walk through town before dawn. Dressed in saffron robes, they receive daily alms from local residents. Then, visit the Kuang Si waterfalls on a guided excursion before free time in the evening.
Traditional Laotian culture involves giving daily alms to monks. Monks are only allowed to eat food which has been donated to them before noon. Should you rise early, you’ll get to watch one of the most important religious ceremonies in Laos.
Day 6
Luang Prabang/Pak Beng
The Mekong never looked so welcoming. Board a long, cozy houseboat that will take you on a two-day journey up the Mekong River en route to Chiang Khong in Thailand. Today, cruise to a village homestay for the night, experience a Baci welcome ceremony, and enjoy dinner with your hosts.
Day 7
Pak Beng/Chiang Khong
New day, same magnificent Mekong. Today’s your second travel day, where you’ll cross into Thailand arriving in Chiang Khong by the later afternoon. Sit back, relax, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, and enjoy the scenic ride.
Day 8
Chiang Khong/Chiang Mai
Take in the rolling countryside views on the drive to Chiang Mai nestled alongside Thailand's northern mountains. Spend the afternoon getting to know this peaceful city known for traditional markets and glorious temples. Choose to visit Doi Suthep, catch a Thai boxing match, cycle around, or grab a bargain at the famous night market.
Day 9
Chiang Mai/Bangkok
Continue to explore Chiang Mai at your own pace making the most of this unique city. Visit the magnificent temple of Doi Suthep as it stands watch over the city from the hills above, take a bicycle ride in the countryside, or relax with a massage. Tonight, catch up on sleep during an overnight train and wake up in Bangkok.
Day 10
Bangkok
After arriving in Bangkok, the day is yours to freely explore the many sights of Thailand's bustling capital. Visit Wat Pho, the Grand Palace, National Museum, or Jim Thompson's House. Try a riverboat trip along the Chao Phraya River and through the canals (or klongs) for a different perspective of daily life in this busy city. Use this time to buy any last-minute souvenirs or treat yourself to a Thai massage. In the evening, celebrate the end of this amazing journey with your fellow travellers during a night out you won’t soon forget.
Day 11
Bangkok
Today, it’s time to say farewell to your group of newfound friends. Be sure to sneak in some last-minute photos and exchange social medias before you head on your way. Depart at any time.
What's Included
Accommodation
Simple hotels (twin-share) (6 nts) and (multi-share) (2 nts), sleeper train (1 nt), homestay (1 nt).
Meals
Breakfasts: 8, Lunches: 1, Dinners: 1
Vegetarian options are available on all meals throughout the adventure.
Vegetarian options availableLocal Guide
GuidedThis adventure is led by a local guide throughout. The main language of this adventure is English. Please contact us for other languages available.
Wifi
Wifi is available during the adventure. In some areas and / or accommodation / transport Wifi may be free.
Dates & Prices
Oct 25
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from £799Jan 26
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from £799Jan 27
from £729Feb 27
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from £729Jun 27
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from £729
- Fri 1 May 2026 > Mon 11 May 2026Guaranteed Departure6+ spaces of 18 leftPay MonthlyBest offer£729Book for£250 today, pay the rest later
- Tue 5 May 2026 > Fri 15 May 2026Guaranteed Departure6+ spaces of 18 leftPay MonthlyBest offer£729Book for£250 today, pay the rest later
- Wed 6 May 2026 > Sat 16 May 2026Guaranteed Departure6+ spaces of 18 leftPay MonthlyBest offer£729Book for£250 today, pay the rest later
- Fri 8 May 2026 > Mon 18 May 2026Guaranteed Departure6+ spaces of 18 leftPay MonthlyBest offer£729Book for£250 today, pay the rest later
Customer reviews & ratings
The tour was a fantastic way to see a little bit of Laos and Thailand without the hassle of booking everything ourselves. Our tour guide Channy was fantastic and our tour felt like good value for what we got.
Kate Sep, 2024 VerifiedA well-paced and detailed trip of Laos that covered a lot of ground considering its relatively short duration, made even more enjoyable by our phenomenal guide Kim. It was a good itinerary, and made great largely by Kim?s excellent skills and knowledge
Julian Sep, 2024 Verified
Essential trip information
Our Important Notes and Packing List cover all essentials, from necessary equipment to inclusions, ensuring you're fully equipped and informed for this extraordinary adventure and more.
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