Highlights of Laos

Day 1: Arrival in Vientiane

Arrive in Vientiane, the capital city of Laos, known for its laid-back atmosphere and French colonial heritage. Meet your tour leader in the hotel lobby at 6 PM for a welcome meeting. Spend your evening at leisure, perhaps visiting the iconic Pha That Luang or enjoying a sunset drink by the Mekong River.

Day 2: Explore Vientiane

Begin your exploration of Vientiane with a city sightseeing tour, visiting notable landmarks like the Victory Gate, That Luang Stupa, and Wat Sisaket. The afternoon is free for optional visits to Buddha Park or the COPE Museum, providing insight into Laos’s history and culture.

Day 3: Train to Vang Vieng

Travel to Vientiane railway station to board the new Boten-Vientiane Railway. Enjoy a scenic two-hour train journey through lush rice paddies and rural villages before arriving in Vang Vieng. Spend the evening watching the sunset by the Nam Song River, capturing the dramatic scenery as the sun sets behind the limestone cliffs.

Day 4: Adventure in Vang Vieng

Today is free for you to choose your adventures in Vang Vieng. Options include a guided walk through rice paddies to nearby villages, exploring the extensive underground cave system, or kayaking on the tranquil Nam Song River, surrounded by stunning karst landscapes.

Day 5: Train Journey to Luang Prabang

Return to the train station for the next leg of your journey to Luang Prabang. This scenic train ride offers breathtaking views as you traverse through mountainous terrain. Upon arrival, take time to relax in this charming city known for its colonial architecture and golden temples. Consider climbing Mount Phousi for panoramic views of the sunset over Luang Prabang.

Day 6: Discover Luang Prabang

Explore Luang Prabang’s main attractions, including the splendid Wat Xieng Thong and the Royal Palace Museum. In the afternoon, board a traditional long-tail boat to the Pak Ou Caves, filled with thousands of Buddha images. The evening is free to wander through the night market, where you can shop for local crafts.

Day 7: Kuang Si Waterfalls

Travel to the stunning Kuang Si Waterfalls, where you can swim in turquoise pools and explore the surrounding nature. Return to Luang Prabang for an optional afternoon bicycle ride to the village of Ban Xieng Mene, where you can visit local temples and learn about the pottery-making process in Ban Chan.

Day 8: Departure from Luang Prabang

After breakfast, the tour concludes in Luang Prabang. You are free to depart at your leisure, with luggage storage available if your flight is later in the day. Enjoy your last moments in this captivating city, perhaps indulging in one last taste of local cuisine before your departure.