Beautiful Laos – 8 Days

Day 1: Arrival in Luang Prabang

Welcome to Laos! Upon your arrival at Luang Prabang Airport, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure, allowing you to relax and acclimate to the charming atmosphere of this UNESCO-listed city.

Day 2: Discovering Luang Prabang

After breakfast, embark on a guided city tour of Luang Prabang. Visit the impressive stupa of Wat Visoun, explore the former Royal Palace, now a National Museum, and learn about Laos’ Hidden War at the poignant UXO Centre. In the afternoon, journey to the breathtaking Khouang Si Waterfall, where you can take a refreshing swim in its turquoise pools. Visit the Sun Bear Reserve, a conservation center dedicated to rescuing animals from the wildlife trade. Later, explore the vibrant Night Market before enjoying dinner at a local home, complete with a traditional Baci ceremony, to immerse yourself in local culture.

Day 3: Leisure in Luang Prabang

Today is free for you to explore Luang Prabang at your own pace. Choose from various optional excursions, including a Mekong boat trip to the Pak Ou Caves, where you can see thousands of tiny gilded Buddha statues. Alternatively, visit a local farm to learn about traditional rice production techniques, using water buffalo and other time-honored methods.

Day 4: Cooking Class and Train to Vientiane

Begin your day at the Morning Market, where you will gather fresh ingredients for your cooking class. Head to a nearby village for a unique experience learning to prepare traditional Laos dishes such as Laap Laos and papaya salad. After cooking, the meal will be offered to the monks at a local temple, where you’ll also participate in a blessing chant. Join a discussion about Buddhism in Laos before returning to Luang Prabang for a light lunch. In the early evening, board the train for a scenic 2-hour journey to Vientiane, where you’ll be transferred to your hotel.

Day 5: Exploring Vientiane

Today, visit the COPE educational centre to gain insight into Laos’ Hidden War and the aid provided to civilian victims. Then, explore the unique Buddha Park (Xiang Khouan), which features hundreds of Buddhist and Hindu statues. Continue your Vientiane tour with visits to the ancient Wat Sisaket and the former royal temple of Wat Prakeo. En route to That Luang Stupa, Laos’ national icon, you will pass the Patuxay Monument, reminiscent of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris.

Day 6: From Vientiane to Don Khong Island

Fly to Pakse, the provincial capital of Champasack, before heading to the ancient temple of Wat Phou, one of the oldest archaeological sites in Laos. After exploring the temple, enjoy the lush scenery while taking a small boat across the Mekong River to Khong Island. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, exploring the tranquil island and its charming villages on foot or by bike.

Day 7: 4000 Islands Exploration

Set sail on a scenic boat trip to explore the highlights of the 4000 Islands, starting with Khone Island, where you can visit old French heritage sites, including colonial buildings and remnants of the first Lao railway. Marvel at the beautiful Liphi Waterfalls, known as “Devil’s Corridor,” before heading to Khone Phasoi Waterfall, where you can witness local fishermen at work. Your adventure continues to Khone Phapeng, the largest waterfall in Southeast Asia, often referred to as the Niagara of the East. After a fulfilling day, return to Pakse.

Day 8: Departure from Pakse

Enjoy your final morning in Pakse. After breakfast, take the time to explore the town at your leisure before your onward departure transfer to the airport. Reflect on the incredible experiences and memories you’ve created throughout your journey in beautiful Laos.