8-Days Adventure Tours

Tour code: ETC 083

Day 1: Arrival - Luang Prabang

Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Luang Prabang has been claimed by UNESCO to be ‘the best-preserved city in South East Asia’. The rest of the day is at leisure.

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Day 2: Luang Prabang – City Tour - Pak Ou Caves

After breakfast, your city tour starts in Wat Xiengthong, with its roofs sweeping low to the ground, representing the Luang Prabang style. Then board a cruise upstream on the Mekong River, to have a panoramic view of the countryside.

Our first stop is the village of Ban Muangkeo where we start a short trek to reach the mysterious Pak Ou Caves, two linked caves crammed with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues. En route, we stop at the village of Ban Xanghai, where the local specialty of rice wine is produced. Once finish we return to Luang Prabang by car. We have also the option to visit the weaving textile and Sa papermaking villages of Ban Xangkhong and Ban Xienglek. Afterward, we return to Luangprabang continue a visit to Wat Visoun, known as ‘The Water Melon Stupa’ due to its shape.

Next, we visit the excellent Arts and Ethnology Center which gives us further insight into the ethnic mix and culture of Laos. Late this afternoon time to climb Mount Phousi, which offers a spectacular sunset and a panoramic view over Luang Prabang and the Mekong River. Afterward, strolling through the night market (open between 5 pm-10 pm) setting in downtown selling local textiles and ethnic handicrafts.

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Note: during the rainy season (May-September) the itinerary is subject to change due to the weather conditions, an alternative program is available.

Day 3: Luang Prabang – Hmong Experience and Kuang Si Waterfall

An optional early start gives you the fantastic opportunity to participate in the daily morning ritual of saffron-clad monks collecting offerings of Alms from the faithful residents. This procession is very unique in Laos, being the only Buddhist nation still preserving the tradition. Afterward, we have the option of visiting the local morning market, before returning to the hotel for breakfast. After, we visit the Royal Palace Museum which hosts a range of interesting artifacts and a guided audio tour.

We also stop at a silk weaving center. Here you will have a guided tour and the silk weaving process will be explained. Next, we drive to a Hmong village and start trekking with the villagers. Your guide will explain to you the common use of the plants for the Hmong people. You will go to the garden and cut some vegetables and herbs with the local people.

We then continue to Kuang Si Waterfall, where you will enjoy a picnic lunch overlooking the beautiful multi-tiered falls. You also have the opportunity to cool off in the turquoise blue pools. Afterward, you return to Luang Prabang in time to catch the sun setting over the Mekong. Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Note: during the rainy season (May-September) the itinerary is subject to change due to the weather conditions, an alternative program is available.

Day 4: Luang Prabang – Xiengkhuang (Road)

We start early this morning, around 8 am for the drive to Xiengkhuang, famous for the ‘Plain of Jars’. The road follows a twisty mountain route, and we make our first stop at Houi Hei. This place offers great views of the surrounding mountains. After, we will get to a Khmu village to explore, before arriving in Phou Khoun for lunch. We continue on the road into Xiengkhuang province, reaching our highest altitude of the day 1500 m above sea level, just after Phou Khoun. We have time to make a stop at a Hmong village.

Our final stops of the day are a reminder that this region played a major part during the Vietnam War. As we visit a hidden Buddha Cave, that served as an army hospital during the war, there is an optional stop to visit an old Russian tank. We arrive at your hotel by early evening. (The road journey today takes approximately 7-8 hours including stops on the way)  and Overnight in Xiengkhuang.

Day 5: Xieng Khuang - Plain of Jars and surrounding

You have the option to start early this morning, visiting the interesting Central Market. We will also visit the Mines Action Group or MAG office to learn about the work they do in clearing land mines and unexploded ordnance in the area. We then transfer out to the picturesque Jar Site 2 and begin our 1-hour trek along the ridge to the impressive Jar Site 3, consisting over around 150 jars located on top of a hill, offering great views over the surrounding countryside.

Then driving out to the ancient town of Muang Khoun, the former provincial capital, where you can explore the ruins of a number of ancient pagodas in the Lanna style That Fun stupa and Wat Phiawat, a ruined temple containing a huge sitting Buddha. Return to Phonsavan on the way stop to visit Jars site 1, the largest site and biggest site left over more than 300 jars and Overnight in Xiengkhuang.

Day 6: Xiengkhuang – Sam Neua (Road)

We begin our long drive today starting early this morning along some fairly rough roads, but the journey is broken up with stops at Hmong and Khmu villages, including Ban Nong On, as well as time to admire the breathtaking scenery with a series of photo stops. Following lunch, we visit Hintang. Here we can see the mysterious menhir (standing stones). No one is quite sure who built them or why perhaps burial sites or markers of some sort.

We also stop at Ban Sa Levy, a Tai Phong weaving village. We arrive in Sam Neua early evening. (The road journey today takes approximately 9-10hours including stops on the way) and Overnight in Sam Neua.

Day 7: Sam Neua – Viengxai

We begin the day with an optional short walk around Sam Neua town, including a visit to the weaving house showroom, this area is highly regarded for its weaving products. We take a walk along the river to visit the local wet market. We then set off on the short drive to Viengxai Caves. This is where the Pathet Lao leaders lived during the “Secret War’.

We start our fascinating audio tour, that includes a visit to the Kaysone Phomivhane Cave, and the Prince Soupanouvong Cave. We finish with the artillery cave that offers stunning views, over the surrounding countryside. In the afternoon, we take an easy walk to some of the little visited caves and an opportunity to take in the beautiful limestone karst scenery. We return to Sam Neua by late afternoon where you will overnight and Overnight in Sam Neua.

Day 8: Sam Neua – Na Meo border gate to Vietnam

We leave Sam Neua early this morning and head east towards the Vietnam border, passing through some Black Tai villages as well as some nice views of the limestone karst scenery. We reach the border by late morning where your tour in Laos ends. (The road journey today takes approximately 3 hours)

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HIGHLIGHTS & INCLUDE

• Experiencing the peaceful ambiance of Luangnamtha trek and Luang Prabang and visiting its cultural heritage sites
• Visiting the sacred Pak Ou Caves and a traditional Lao textile village by boat
• Watching a procession of saffron-robed monks collecting alms at sunrise
• Feeling the mist of one of Asia's most spectacular natural attractions, Kuang Si Waterfall

NOTES:

• In the wet season, the drive by minivan is not comfortable to the slippery road, So 4 WD truck is recommended (prices accordingly)
• Prices are in USD, per person, based on two people traveling together and sharing a room, we carefully select all hotels, homestays, and guesthouses to ensure that your accommodations match our standards of trip and service excellence.

Prices include the following:

.All hotel accommodation including all taxes and breakfast
.Internal economy flights as stated with airport taxes
.All transfers & sightseeing transportation in private vehicle
.Private services of local guides
.All special events & private tours, guest experts
.All entrance fees into historical sights & museums
.Drinking water and refreshing towels for touring

Day1. Arrival – Vientiane

Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Your half day city tour, begin with the oldest, Wat Sisaket with thousands of miniature Buddha statues and the former royal temple of Wat Prakeo, which previously housed the famous Emerald Buddha Image. On the way to Lao’s national precious heritage, the famous and sacred structure of That Luang Stupa, you will have the opportunity to take some pictures of the imposing Patuxay Monument, which is well known as Vientiane’s own Arc de Triumph.

Wat Si Muang, site of the lak meuang (pillar-stone) of Vientiane, Si Muang temple is home to the guardian spirit of the statues. The final visit of the day will be the excellent COPE exhibition center, highlighting a much-overlooked aspect of Laos and a major problem many of the local people face on a day to day basis in the form of unexploded ordnance as a result of heavy bombing campaigns during the Vietnam War era. A spectacular view of the Mekong River at sunset is a perfect way to finish the day.

Overnight in Vientiane.

Meals: _/_/_

Day2. Vientiane - Vang Vieng

This morning we will travel along the scenic back roads to Vang Vieng. On the way, we stop at Ban Keun, which is famous for its salt mine. Here you can learn about the daily work life of local people. Continue to Nam Ngum, a picturesque lake created by damming the Nam Ngum River.

After lunch overlooking the lake, we continue north, stopping at Tha Heua, a small town that specializes in dried fish, which you will see hanging in front of the houses. Then we reach Vang Vieng in the middle of the afternoon, where we have time to visit the lovely Tham Jang cave, which offers stunning views of the Nam Song River and the surrounding karst landscape. The rest of the day is free. (The road trip today takes approximately 4-5 hours including stops along the way)

Overnight in Vang Vieng.

Meals: Breakfast/_/_

Day3. Biking in Vang Vieng

After crossing the Nam Song River on a bamboo bridge, we begin the day with the exploration of one of the most unusual caves in the area: Tham Poukham, the very auspicious and venerated "Cave of the Golden Crab". The mountain bike tour covers approximately 26 km behind the karstic mountain range of Nam Song and Vang Vieng. After reaching the other side of the mountain range, a steep hike leads to the main cave of Tham Poukham. Its hidden corridors are filled with endless stalagmites and stalactites, as well as underground lakes, deep wells and chimneys up to 80 m high.

Continuing west, the road becomes increasingly difficult. We follow the narrow valley of the Houay San stream until the Pha Deng, called "red cliff", appears on the right. Depending on the season, bicycles must be carried at short distances (muddy patches). The village of Phonxay is the first on the banks of Nam Khouang. The road continues to the south like a dirt road in good condition that runs parallel to Nam Khouang. At the crossroads of Ban Nathong Tai, the road to the Nam Song Bridge is again. Back in Vang Vieng, a sunset drink by the river marks the end of a great adventure by bike.

Moderate cycling, approximately 6 hours by bicycle, 2 hours walking.

Overnight in Vang Vieng.

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch /_

Day4. Vang Vieng - Luang Prabang

This morning we will leave Vang Vieng, making a brief photo stop at the viewpoint of Phatang Mountain to admire the beautiful scenery. For this spot, we have an optional stop at Koe Kuang, which has a local forest market, which offers edible snakes, rats, and assorted reptiles. We also make a stop at Ban Hin Ngon, a picturesque Hmong village, before arriving at Phou Khoun for lunch. In the afternoon we stop to explore Ban Kiu Kam Pone, a Khmu village, and we have the opportunity to stretch our legs in the picturesque riverside village of Ban Nam Ming. We arrived in Luang Prabang late in the afternoon.

(The road trip today takes approximately 7-8 hours including stops along the way)

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Meals: Breakfast /_/_

Day5. Luang Prabang City tour

An optional early start gives you the fantastic opportunity to participate in the daily morning ritual of saffron-clad monks collecting offerings of Alms from the faithful residents. This procession is very unique in Laos, being the only Buddhist nation still preserving the tradition. Afterward, we have the option of visiting the local morning market, before returning to the hotel for breakfast. After breakfast, we visit the Royal Palace Museum which hosts a range of interesting artifacts (closed on Tuesday).

We then begin our temple tour taking in some the cities most beautiful, including the magnificent Wat Xiengthong, with its roofs sweeping low to the ground, representing the classical Luang Prabang style, as well as Wat Visoun, known as ‘The Water Melon Stupa’ due to its shape. We will also visit the excellent Arts and Ethnology Center which gives us further insight into the ethnic mix and culture of Laos (closed on Monday).

Later, we drive out of the town where you have the option of stopping to visit Khmu, Hmong and Lao Loum villages, representing the main ethnic groups of Laos. This then takes us to the beautiful KuangSi Waterfall where you can cool off with a refreshing swim in the pools or walk along the forest trails. Late this afternoon stretching your legs climb Mount Phousi, these offers a spectacular sunset and a panoramic view over Luang Prabang and the Mekong River. Afterward, strolling through the night market (open between 5 pm-10 pm) setting in downtown selling a large variety of local textiles and ethnic handicrafts.

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Meals: Breakfast/_/_

Day6. Luang Prabang – Gecko Cliff full day (cycling and boat)

This cycling and boat tour takes in the rarely visited villages, temples, and a waterfall all located across the Mekong River from Luang Prabang. This morning you will be picked up from your hotel and transferred to the boat pier. Here you board your private boat for a short cruise to the ancient Royal temple of Wat Long Khoun, that was formerly used by past Kings and Queens for meditation purposes.

We then cycle for approximately 30 minutes to the village of Xienmene, where you can pause to explore the quiet village, including a visit to the local school. We then continue by bicycle along quiet unpaved roads to the unknown but beautiful Hoy Khua Waterfall.

En route, we make a short stop at a Khmu village. After enjoying a picnic lunch overlooking the waterfall, we cycle to the riverside village of Ban Pak Leuang and board our boat, following the Mekong upstream to the village of Ban Chan, famous for its pottery making. Here we will meet the locals and learn about their daily lifestyle. Following this visit we continue by private boat to Luang Prabang, arriving back in the town at approximately 4 pm.

Complimentary tea and coffee served on board the boat. Moderate, approximately 3-4 hours cycling, 1 hour boating.

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/_

Day7. Luang Prabang – Elephant riding, Tad Sae and Kayaking

A day trip around Luang Prabang especially for the ones who want to see the Lao countryside from a different point of view… from the back of an Asian elephant and from top of a kayak. The Elephant Park Project visit with an exciting elephant ride and the visit of the Tad Sae Waterfall is the highlight of the day as well as the refreshing rapids you will paddle through on the Nam Khan.

The trip is made for beginners and is a great activity combination with animals and soft water sport elements.

After breakfast, your local guide will meet your hotel (at 8:30 am.), You will proceed to the Nam Khan valley about 15 km out of town to reach the beautiful "Elephant Village". The rugged mountains in front of you and the green lush countryside is the setting for the ultimate elephant experience. Here we find time to relax and the right place for great activities. Now you will be introduced to our protected Asian elephants in the project area and start your scenic elephant ride.

Enjoy the new perspective and the wonderful nature on this 1 hr. ride through the Nam Khan River and forest. Afterward, a boat will take you to the amazing cascades and pools of the Tad Sae waterfalls. (waterfall dry between February & August.) Hang out at the lunch break and enjoy either the refreshing cascades or our mountainous view terrace for your lunch. After a short instruction, you will experience the life along the Nam Khan river.

It will be a soft 3-4 hr. kayaking tour back into town, with just a few small rapids (depending on the season). Even for inexperienced paddlers, this is an option to get into it. Village stops along the way are included as well as a pick-up service at the arrival point in Luang Prabang.

Full day activity plus soft Kayaking Grade easy to moderate, Elephant riding about 1 hr.

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/_

Day8. Luang Prabang - departure

Depending on your departing flight you may have time at leisure before your transfer to the airport for departure.

Meals: Breakfast/_/_

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Day1. Arrival – Vientiane

Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Your half day city tour, begin with the oldest, Wat Sisaket with thousands of miniature Buddha statues and the former royal temple of Wat Prakeo. On the road to Lao’s national precious heritage, the famous and sacred structure of That Luang Stupa. You will have the opportunity to take some pictures of the imposing Patuxay Monument, which is well known as Vientiane’s own Arc de Triumph.

Wat Si Muang, site of the lak meuang (-stone) of Vientiane. Si Muang temple is home to the guardian spirit of the statues. The final visit of the day will be the excellent exhibition center. Highlighting an overlooked aspect of Laos and a major problem many of the local people face on a day to day basis. In unexploded ordnance as a result of heavy bombing campaigns during the Vietnam War era. A spectacular view of the Mekong River at sunset is a perfect way to finish the day. Overnight in Vientiane.

Day2. Vientiane – Oudomxay – Muang La (Flight and Road)

Following the morning at leisure, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight up to Oudomxay. Flight from Vientiane to Oudomxay with Lao airlines QV501 departs at 10:00, arrives at 10:50. (Note: the flight schedules are subject to change without prior notice from the airlines). Upon arrival in Oudomxay, you will be met by your guide and continue on the road for about 45 minutes to Muang La. Here we have the chance to visit the intriguing Pra Xack Kham Temple with its sacred Buddha image.

The 400 years old legendary statue is said to have many supernatural powers and is worshipped among the faithful local Buddhists. We stop in Muang La, famous for its natural hot springs for the night. No activities are planned for the rest of the day so you can stroll around the village or just relax at the riverside. Dinner at Muang La Resort and Overnight in Muang La.

Day3. Muang La – 4WD Adventure “Meet the Lao ethnic groups”

Today with 4WD to meet Ikhor villages and Hmong, two communities typical of Laos. The track you will use is superb and offers an incredible climb up 1000m to have a memorable and unique point of view. You will visit first a beautiful village Ikhor totally isolated.

This community from Yunnan and Tibet has remained extremely traditional. Lunch will be taken on a magnificent view. We join in after the Hmong village of Ban Tauser (45 minutes walking). These ethnic group, originally high steppes of Tibet, you will discover their habits, the important place that keeps the animals (pigs, buffaloes…) in their lifestyle and care they provide. The path leading to the village completely isolated offers many viewpoints impressive.

A few minutes from the villages is a viewpoint with 360-degree panorama on the region… unique. Back to the resort at the end of the day. Dinner at Muang La Resort and Overnight in Muang La.

Day4. Muang La – Muang Khua – Nong Khiaw (Road and Boat)

This morning we drive to the riverside town of Muang Khua in our private boat down the Nam Ou River to Nong Khiaw. This offers stunning limestone karst scenery and remote villages, including Ban Sob Jaem a Khmu and Hmong. This village can only be accessed by boat.

We stop to explore a few of these sights before reaching our accommodation in Nong Khiaw by mid-afternoon. Upon checking into your hotel, you can take a short bicycle ride to the picturesque limestone caves nearby. (Approximately 2-3 hours driving, 5-6 hours boating depending on stop on the way) . Overnight in Nong Khiaw.

Day5. Nong Khiaw – Luang Prabang (Boat)

This morning we continue our leisurely trip downstream on the Nam Ou River, enjoying the lush green forests and landscape. Along the way, we stop into the mysterious caves of Pak Ou, two linked caves crammed with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues left by devoted pilgrims.

We continue our trip down the river to the UNESCO World Heritage City of Luang Prabang. This royal capital with its gleaming temple roofs, colonial architecture and stunning mountain backdrop retain a unique charm of modern Asia. You transferred to your hotel by private vehicle by early evening and Overnight in Luang Prabang.

(The boat journey today takes approximately 6-7 hours including stops on the way.

Day6. Luang Prabang – full day city tour

An optional early start gives you the opportunity to participate in the ritual of saffron-clad monks collecting offerings of Alms. This procession is very unique in Laos, being the only Buddhist nation still preserving the tradition.

Afterward, we have the option to visit the local morning market, before returning to the hotel for breakfast. Then we visit the Royal Palace Museum which hosts a range of interesting artifacts. We then begin our temple tour taking in some the cities most beautiful. Including the nearby Wat Mai, the magnificent Wat Xiengthong. As well as Wat Visoun, known as ‘The Water Melon Stupa’ due to its shape. In the afternoon we visit the Arts and Ethnology Centre for further insight into the ethnic culture of Laos.

Then, we visit the weaving textile and jute papermaking villages of Ban Xangkhong and Ban Xienglek. Late this afternoon climb Mount Phousi, to see a spectacular sunset and a panoramic view over the city. Afterward, strolling through the night market (open between 5 pm-10 pm) setting in downtown selling local textiles and ethnic handicrafts.  Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Day7. Luang Prabang – Kuang Si Waterfall

After breakfast, we visit the local Phosi Market, this is the place where all the local's shop and your guide will show you the diverse offerings on display. We also stop at Ock Pop Tock, a silk weaving center. Here you will be given a guided tour and the silk weaving process will be explained. Next, we drive to Ban Thinkeo, a Hmong village and start trekking with the villagers. Your guide will explain to you the common use of the plants for the Hmong people.

You will go to the garden and cut some vegetables and herbs with the local people. We then continue to Kuang Si Waterfall, where you will enjoy a picnic lunch overlooking the beautiful multi-tiered falls. You also have the opportunity to cool off in the turquoise blue pools. Afterward, you return to Luang Prabang in time to catch the sun setting over the Mekong and Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Day8. Luang Prabang – Departure

Depending on your departing flight you may have time at leisure before your transfer to the airport for departure.

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