Luang Prabang & Southern Laos - 8 Days

Once you have arrived in Luang Prabang, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for check-in. In the evening, meet your tour leader and fellow travellers for a welcome drink and a tour briefing.

Today, we explore the cultural heart of Laos, Luang Prabang. Nestled between forested hills where the Khan and Mekong rivers meet, this former royal capital is known for its calm atmosphere and layered history. A blend of French colonial architecture and over thirty ornate Buddhist temples reflects its past as the seat of the Lane Xang kingdom until the 16th century.

We begin with a relaxed walk through the old quarter, starting at the lively morning market before continuing along the main street to the National Museum. We then visit Wat Xieng Thong, regarded as the finest temple in Laos. The day ends with a peaceful sunset cruise along the Mekong River, offering a fitting close to our introduction to this timeless town.

This morning, we will depart for the edge of Luang Prabang heading towards Kuang Si Waterfall, which is widely regarded as the most stunning waterfall in the Luang Prabang area. Here, we will have the chance to swim in the clear turquoise pools and take in the lush jungle surroundings. Afterwards, we visit a nearby bear sanctuary, home to rescued Asiatic black bears saved from the illegal wildlife trade.

On our return to Luang Prabang, we will visit the Ock Pop Tok Weaving Centre, where the artistry of Lao textiles is showcased through vibrant displays and traditional techniques. In the evening, we continue to the Bamboo Experience for an engaging presentation on bamboo craftsmanship, followed by a local dinner and a traditional baci ceremony.

Luang Prabang - Pakse - Bolaven Plateau. After breakfast, we fly south from Luang Prabang to Pakse. Upon arrival, we begin our journey through the mountains and along winding roads towards the Bolaven Plateau region.

As we travel towards the Bolaven Plateau, we will stop at a local coffee farm where Mr Kamsome, a coffee expert, will take us on a guided tour of the plantation in an old army Jeep.

Bolaven Plateau - Champasak - Don Khong. This morning, we will head to Tad Fane, also known as the twin waterfalls, set against a backdrop of lush jungle and rolling mountains. We will then make our way to the ruins of the Mountain temple of Wat Phu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for being one of the oldest archaeological sites in Laos. After, we will make our way to the largest island of Si Phan Don, the 4,000 Islands, to Don Khong, where we will check into our hotel.

After breakfast, we begin our journey through a tranquil archipelago where life unfolds at a gentle pace. We cruise along the Mekong River, feeling the breeze as we glide past small fishing communities that line the riverbanks. Upon arrival at Done Khone island, we step ashore and set off on a relaxed cycling adventure, winding our way past highlights such as the historic French-era locomotive and the old Railway Bridge, remnants of a bygone era. Our exploration continues as we visit the stunning Liphi Waterfalls, where torrents of water cascade over rocks, fanning out in multiple streams before merging once again with the mighty Mekong River

Don Khong - Ban Khiet Ngong - Pakse. Today, we will make our way to the mighty Khone Phapheng Waterfalls. Here, we will take in the impressive scale of the falls and the force of the water as it plunges into the forested valley below.

We then continue to the village of Ban Khiet Ngong, set within the Xe Pian National Protected Area, a vast wetland known for its rare wildlife. From here, we take a short walk up Phou Asa Mountain, where a series of mysterious stone columns stand like silent sentinels. These stacked, plate-like rocks are thought to be the remnants of an ancient temple. After, we will make our way back to Pakse, where we will enjoy a traditional Sindat dinner.

After your final breakfast, you can enjoy some last-minute shopping, exploring, or relaxing before your transfer to the airport for your onward flight. Safe travels!