Imagine Laos

A fully immersive trip taking in the highlights of Laos, from the charming town of Luang Prabang, to the spectacular scenery of Nong Khiaw. You will head off the beaten track in the south taking you away from the mainstream tourist spots, exploring the dramatic Bolaven Plateau and picturesque 4,000 Islands known as Siphandon. You will get to experience some of the best that Laos has to offer, combining stunning scenery, adventure and plenty of culture.

1. Fly to Luang Prabang

2. Days 1-5: Luang Prabang

   Leap into the cultural capital of Laos, Luang Prabang. This lovely town is UNESCO protected, with beautiful temples, gorgeous surrounding countryside, and a wonderfully peaceful atmosphere. 
   
   There is so much to see and do here, from visiting the stunning Kuang Si Waterfall, to taking a boat ride up the Mekong to venture in the mysterious Pak Ou Caves. Spend some time exploring the town, visiting sites such as the dazzling Wat Sensoukarahm temple, learning about Laos’ ethnic minorities at the Traditional Arts & Ethnology Centre, or climbing the 328 steps to the top of Mount Phousi to watch the sun set across the hills. 
   
   Embrace the spiritual side of Luang Prabang by participating in Tak Bat, the traditional alms giving to the monks which takes place each morning, or the Baci, an Animist and Buddhist ceremony which is believed to harmonise the body’s spirits. 
   

   Accommodation: Le Sen Boutique (4 nights)

3. Days 5-6: Nong Khiaw, Northern Laos, Laos

   Head from Luang Prabang and take a scenic three-hour drive to Nong Khiaw. Relax after your drive to the sound of the lapping water at the ‘Nong Kiau Riverside’ perched on the banks of the Nam Ou River.  This is one of the most beautiful areas in the country, with the winding Nam Ou River framed by dramatic limestone mountains. 
   
   Spend your days trekking, cycling and kayaking, as well as venturing into the extensive caves hidden away in the mountains, perfect for adventure lovers. Take time to visit the Pathok Cave, which was used as a bomb-shelter during the America-Vietnam war.  Whilst we have currently only suggested one night here, this can easily be extended for those who want to spend more time exploring.
   

   Accommodation: Nong Kiau Riverside (1 night)

4. Days 6-7: Vientiane

   Submerge yourself in the stunning French-colonial architecture you will find once you arrive in Vientiane, Laos’ capital city with its laidback atmosphere and delicious street food.  Take a private tour of some of the city’s cultural sites, including the Patuxay Monument, which is reminiscent of the Parisienne Arc de Triomphe, and That Luang, which has a gold-covered stupa and is one of the holiest sites in the country. Otherwise you may simply wish to take a relaxing stroll along the Mekong, soaking up the wonderful atmosphere.

   Accommodation: Ansara Hotel (1 night)

5. Days 7-10: Champasak, Southern Laos, Laos

   Time to head off the beaten track and experience the lesser known region of Pakse.  Southern Laos is relatively undeveloped in terms of mass tourism, and so this is a great opportunity to explore the impressive sites and scenery.  Take a guided tour to the extraordinary Bolaven Plateau, which is home to dozens of hilltribes, farms, tea and coffee plantations and mesmerising waterfalls.  We highly recommend you take a half a day tour to explore this expansive temple of Wat Phou, which pre-dates the temples of Angkor and is surrounded by serene countryside.
    
   Another special experience is to take a day to explore the 4,000 Islands region, known locally as Siphandon. Visit one of the islands, travelling around by bicycle or tuk tuk, passing through sleepy villages and farms. Stop off to admire the Lippi waterfalls and take a short boat trip to try and catch site of the elusive Irrawaddy dolphin.  
   

   Accommodation: The River Resort (3 nights)

6. Fly home from Pakse

Luang Prabang, Nong Khiaw, Vientiane & Champasak