16 days Laos - from north to south

Explore the city by Tuk Tuk. The Tuk Tuk (a motorized-rickshaw) was brought to Southeast Asia in 1934 from Japan, and has since then become an icon in the region. The classic Tuk Tuk is a sheet-metal roof covering an open frame which rests on three wheels. They’re one of the most popular forms of transportation in Laos, Thailand and Cambodia, and this Southeast Asian emblem is the perfect vehicle for an open-air tour of Luang Prabang.

Departing from the hotel at 08:30, get on the Tuk Tuk  to the open-air Morning Market in the old town. There are only a few large grocery stores here—on the contrarary, food is still produced by small farming families and villages and brought to Luang Prabang from the surrounding rural areas. Your guide will explain the use of common vegetables and fruits that are in season and pick up some snacks for later.

We leave the market and a little bit further we’ll see Wat Mai Suwannaphumaham (“New Monastery ''), the National Museum (Royal Palace) and Hor Phra Bang. After visiting the museum, again by tuk tuk, you’ll see what more the picturesque town has to offer, and we go to Wat Visounnalath. Continue to Heuan Chan Luang Prabang for a short activity and learn how to make banana Leaf and flower.

Another short tuk tuk ride along the Nam Khan River to Wat Xieng Thong. End the day’s tour on top of Mount Phousi.

MORNING MARKET

This small market is the Laotian "supermarket" where they come to buy their fresh fruit, vegetables and meat, which are proposed in showcases and are not always the way we used to see in most of our countries. Some products are coming from the neighbouring jungles, and will be for sure highly exotic for travellers from western countries.

WAT MAI SUWANNAPHUMAHAM

The impressive Wat Mai Suwannaphumaham is one of Luang Prabang’s largest and most richly decorated temples. Both its interior and exterior are extensively adorned with black and red lacquer decoration and gold leaf. The temple, also known as Wat Mai, meaning “new temple”, was founded around 1780 by King Anurat of the Luang Prabang Kingdom.

NATIONAL MUSEUM (ROYAL PALACE) AND HOR PHRA BANG

Situated in a spacious, well-tended garden just off one of Luang Prabang’s main boulevards (Sisavangvong Road), you will find the fascinating Royal Palace Museum, which is also known as Hor Kham. The museum is well worth a couple of hours of your time if you want to learn more about Lao history and culture. Originally the residence of the king, the museum was designed in the French Beaux-Arts style, with many tasteful accents of traditional Lao culture. When the communists came to power in 1975, they took over the palace and sent the royal family to re-education camps. The palace was converted into a museum that was opened to the public in 1995 after careful renovation, and remains in good condition. The grounds contain a number of other buildings such as a new exhibition hall, a chapel (Hor Phra Bang) and a statue of King Sisavangvong.

WAT VISOUNNALATH

Founded in 1512 during the reign of King Visounnalath (1501-1520), this temple was a symbol of the Kingdom’s unity. The carved wooden railings in its windows are reminiscent of the Wat Phou temple in Champasak, in the far South of Laos. Inside you can admire ancient statues and steeles. Also located on the grounds of this temple is the That Pathoume, also known as That Mak Mo (the watermelon stupa) because of its shape.

HEUAN CHAN LUANG PRABANG

A treasure trove of Lao antiques house built in the early 1900s, almost 115 year-old. It is a rare surviving example in Luang Prabang of a pre-colonial Lao style aristocratic mansion, dating back from the days before the colonial influences.

WAT XIENG THONG

Founded at the tip of the Luang Prabang peninsula is one of Laos’ most beautiful and richly decorated temples. This temple is a Royal temple built in 1559 by King Setthathirath on the banks of the Mekong river. It is one of the few temples that was not destroyed during the Black Flag Army invasion of 1887.

MOUNT PHOUSI

Rising 150 m above the city centre, Mount Phousi cuts a distinctive figure on the Luang Prabang skyline. The hill is a popular place to watch the sun rise or set over the Mekong River. From the summit, enjoy a spectacular 360 degree outlook across the city and its many temples, and over the surrounding landscape to the mountains in the distance. For a complete experience, go up Mount Phousi on one side and use the other set of steps to go down again.

Overnight in Luang Prabang (B,L)

RICE IS LIFE EXPERIENCE / THE LIVING LAND FARM & TAD KUANG SI WATERFALL

Today we follow the footsteps of the local rice farmers. We spend half a day in the rice field and forget that you are a tourist! On a traditional working organic farm, you will be introduced to every aspect of the rice industry and will of course be involved in the selection of the seeds, the water buffalo plowing, the tedious planting etc. And of course there will be rice too to taste! We strengthen ourselves with Asia's staple food, and we continue our trip into the breathtaking nature to explore the Tad Kuang Si waterfalls. The short drive leads through rice fields, small villages and hilly landscape. A detour to a Hmong village will tell you something interesting about the centuries-old culture of these people. The Kuang Si waterfalls are an ideal place to relax and recharge your batteries. After all, today the Bear Rescue Center and some villages await you, where you can learn about traditional handicrafts.

LIVING LAND FARM

Spend a morning at the Living Land Farm, experience how rice is grown on the farm, learn about the life of a farmer and help a bit in some of the activities.

TAD KUANG SI WATERFALL AND BEAR RESCUE CENTER
Tad Kuang Si Waterfall is the biggest waterfall in the Luang Prabang area with three levels leading to a 50-metre drop into spectacular azure pools before flowing downstream. The pools also make great swimming holes and are very popular to tourists, as well as to the locals. Visit the Bear Rescue Center in the Kuang Si Waterfall (No entrance ticket).

KUANG SI BUTTERFLY PARK

Situated 300 m before the entry of Kuang Si Waterfall. Kuang Si Butterfly Park is a project that was set up in January 2014 by 2 passionate people from Holland. The mission was to create a research centre, studying and publishing about Laos butterflies, host plants and preservation due to environmental issues in Laos. Relax in a nice little café on the pond after the visit, and have a good coffee or a delicious baguette in a beautiful surrounding.

Overnight in Luang Prabang (B,L)

THAM PAK OU CAVE

One of the most respected holy sites in Lao; Pak Ou Caves have a history dating back thousands of years. The caves are packed with over 4,000 Buddha icons. They are a shrine to the river spirit and the Lord Buddha. They are located on a dramatic limestone cliff there where the Mekong joins the Nam Ou River. There are two caves to visit: the lower cave called Tham Ting and the upper cave Tham Theung, both boasting miniature Buddhist figures that are mostly made from wood.

Continue by boat to the Botanical Garden.

Overnight in Luang Prabang(B/L)

THAM PAK OU CAVES - PHA TAD KE BOTANICAL GARDEN

On board of a traditional, slow boat, we go upstream the Mekong. The Mekong is the tenth longest river in the world and has a biodiversity in its basin that is only surpassed by the Amazon in the world. At the confluence of the Nam Ou and Mekong, you will go ashore to explore the Pak Ou Caves, where centuries-old stupas, shrines and thousands of Buddha sculptures testify to the spiritual traditions of mankind. Back on the Mekong, we go back to Luang Prabang. In Ban Xang Khong, watch how craftsmen make special paper from the bark of the mulberry tree.

THAM PAK OU CAVE

One of the most respected holy sites in Lao; Pak Ou Caves have a history dating back thousands of years. The caves are packed with over 4,000 Buddha icons. They are a shrine to the river spirit and the Lord Buddha. They are located on a dramatic limestone cliff there where the Mekong joins the Nam Ou River. There are two caves to visit: the lower cave called Tham Ting and the upper cave Tham Theung, both boasting miniature Buddhist figures that are mostly made from wood.

Continue by boat to the Botanical Garden.

Overnight in Luang Prabang(B/L)

Say goodbye to Luang Prabang and head to the impressive mountainous region of Central Laos! Along the way, visit some Hmong villages. This interesting indigenous hill tribe migrated from southern China to Laos in the 18th century. The arrival in the small town of Vang Vieng, which is located between gigantic limestone cliffs in the magical valley of the Nam Song River.

VANG VIENG

The small town of Vang Vien

The small town of Vang Vieng is located 150 km north of Vientiane. This is a place of a dreamlike landscape of bizarre limestone mountain peaks and scenic cliffs, with the Nam Song River bisecting the town. At the base of the town’s limestone mountains are a network of caves. Overnight in Vang Vieng (B,L)

Distance: 220 km / 5-6 hrs

Is located 150 km north of Vientiane. This is a place of a dreamlike landscape of bizarre limestone mountain peaks and scenic cliffs, with the Nam Song River bisecting the town. At the base of the town’s limestone mountains are a network of caves. Overnight in Vang Vieng (B,L)

Distance: 220 km / 5-6 hrs

Today is a day of excursions. First, drive south to Nam Ngum Lake, where you can explore various tropical islands during a boat trip. Then we will visit Vang Xang archaeological site and finally reach Vientiane on the banks of the Mekong, which was already declared the capital of the Kingdom of Laos in 1563.

Colonial administration was established here during the French colonial era, and thanks to the economic growth of recent years, the city has become the country's most important economic center.

VANG XANG

Vang Xang archaeological site dates back to the 11th century. The name of the site translates to 'Elephant Palace' in reference to a nearby elephant graveyard. Here you’ll wander through the historic sites and see the fascinating Buddha sculpture reliefs inscribed onto the cliffs.
Overnight in Vientiane(B,L)

Today, the day starts early and, together with two local guides, we go on the full-day orchid walk. Starting point is the village of Pha Xay, where a fantastic view from a hill provides the right motivation. You will hike on narrow trails through dense jungle, where you will almost feel like an adventurer. The two guides have a lot to tell about the different plants - above all, of course, about the countless orchids that cover numerous rocks everywhere. Have a picnic in a dry riverbed and refresh yourself with a dip in the Tad Say Waterfall!

Overnight in Vientiane(B,L)

We get up early and your guide will pick you up around 08:00. Overland journey brings us further East to Paksan and onwards through the Bolikhamxay Province towards Khoun Kham, the starting point for tours to Tham Kong Lor Cave. Stop at Wat Phra Baht and Wat Phonsan.

WAT PHRA BAHT

Situated 70 km east of Vientiane,  it is best known for its large Phabaht (Buddha footprint) shrine and monastery. It is an important pilgrimage place for lowland Lao from Bolikhamxay and Vientiane.

WAT PHONSAN

Located on the Mekong Riverside and 2 km away from Wat Phra Baht. Both temples are not located in the same area, but only had a link from their legend. This is the reason why people called these 2 temples in one name Wat Phabatphonsan.

Overnight in Khoun Kham(B,L)

Distance: 320 km / 6 hrs

Visit Tham Kong Lor Cave, explore the karst limestone caves while drifting along a winding, underground river surrounded by spectacular rock formations. Then we continue to Thakhek, a small, clear city on the Mekong. On the way, we stop at the 'Great Wall' (Kamphaeng Yak) about their edification is very little known; and at the well-known and revered Sikhottabong Stupa, located on the Mekong.

THAM KONG LOR CAVE

This amazing 7.5 kilometers-long limestone cave was formed by the Hinboun River which still flows through the cave year-round. A boat ride right through the main cave, which is up to 90 meters wide and 100 meters high.

THAT SIKHOTTABONG STUPA

On the east bank of the Mekong south of Thakhek, is the most important cultural and religious site in South Central Laos. The history of this 16th’ century, 500 year old stupa is linked across the Mekong River with cultural sites in Thailand. The region’s main event is the Sikhottabong festival in February, when crowds make a pilgrimage to the Stupa from all over Laos.

Overnight in Thakhek (B,L)

Distance: 190 km / 3.5 hrs

Overland southwards to Seno and Savannakhet, the capital city of Khammouane Province. Visit That Ing Stupa and Dinosaur Museum.

The old French Quarter of Savannakhet downtown invites for an evening walk, and you can sit along the Mekong River Bank for a sunset drink & snack.

THAT ING HANG STUPA

Is about nine metres high with beautiful carvings and decoration. It’s reported to house a relic of Buddha’s spine. The 16th century stupa is located in Savannakhet, Central Laos. The sacred stupa is an important place of worship,  not only for Laotian Buddhists but also Thai Buddhists who live in northern Thailand. ‘Dress with respect’ is a must for all visitors. Women may be required to wear traditional phasin (Lao-style sarong) before entering the temple grounds. There are plenty of them available at the nearby stands and stores.

DINOSAUR MUSEUM

A museum where you can discover more about the Savannakhet prehistoric period. It is the latest addition to tourist sites here and is situated south of the stadium on Khantabouli Road. The hall displays an impressive collection of fossils excavated from 1930 to the present. Four different dinosaurs and early mammalian remains from 200 million years ago are displayed; even some fragments of a meteorite that fell to earth over 100 million years ago are kept here.

Overnight in Savannakhet(B)

Distance: 170 km / 3 hrs

Drive to Tad Lo and on the way, visit the Hor Tay Phidok Library, located South of Savannakhet. Arrive late afternoon and check-in to the Lodge near the Tad Lo Waterfall.

HOR TAY PHIDOK LIBRARY

This is an impressive old structure originally built in the 17th century. It is the most important repository of palm leaf books written in Burmese Pali, Khmer and ancient Lao alphabets in Laos. There are currently 4,000 books containing 361 different stories. The books are maintained in good condition by monks and novices, as well as the local people.

Overnight in Tad Lo(B,L)

Distance: 260 km / 5-6 hrs

The renowned coffee of Laos is produced in this region. During colonization, the French promoted the production of high quality Arabica and Robusta strains. Production declined during the war years, but is now experiencing a revival. The climate of the plateau, with its cooler temperatures and abundant rainfall, makes it the perfect place for coffee production.

A chance to visit some coffee and tea plantation and taste the unique flavour of Lao coffee.

This area is rich in ethnic groups, predominantly Laven. On the road between Pakse and Paksong on the western edge of the plateau, visit Tad E-Tu Waterfall. Continue to Tad Fane Waterfall, the highest in Champasak Province, and the nearby Tad Yuang Waterfall.

Overnight in Paksong(B,L)

After breakfast, drive from Paksong down into the Mekong plain and visit the town of Champasak, where we’ll explore the French colonial architecture dotting the town. Further South, we reach the ruined Khmer temple complex of Vat Phou. Our next stop is the city of Champasak with its French colonial architecture. Continue to the Xe Pian National Park area and the magnificently situated Kingfisher Ecolodge for relaxing or alternative activities; e.g. hike or elephant safari to the Phou Asa mountain.

VAT PHOU

Vat Phu is considered one of the oldest archaeological sites in Laos. One temple on the site was constructed around the 5th century but most buildings found in the complex are from the 11th to 13th centuries. Like other notable Khmer architecture in Southeast Asia, it was constructed using sandstone, laterite and bricks. Among many of the outstanding carvings there are Indra, the Hindu god of war, storms, and rainfall, riding a three-headed elephant and Vishnu riding on a garuda, an eagle.

Overnight at Kingfisher Ecolodge(B,L)

Distance: 130 km / 2.5 hrs

Take a scenic drive South to Don Khong. This island is one of the larger, permanently inhabited islands in the area of ​​'Si Pan Don' (4000 islands).

DON KHONG

A peaceful place to spend a day or two, wandering past fishing nets drying in the sun, pedalling on a bicycle or just chilling by the river.

Overnight on Don Khong(B)

Distance: 100 km / 1.5 hrs

By boat to explore the area of ​​4000 Islands (Si Pan Don). Return to Pakse with a stop at the legendary Khone Phapheng Cascade Falls.

SI PHAN DON
Meaning “Four Thousand Islands”, Si Phan Don is a group of islands in the Mekong river in the South of Laos. The area’s main attractions are its rural character, the tranquility, the opportunity to watch the rare Irrawaddy dolphin and the Khone Phapheng Waterfall.

The pace of life is slow in the rural area where local people live in small wooden houses on stilts and where cows, goats, pigs and other animals roam around free.

The most visited islands are Don Khone, Don Det and Don Khong, which is the largest island. Don Det is a small island that offers the most choice of accommodation. The island attracts a large number of backpackers. The larger Don Khone Island, which is just one kilometer from the Cambodian border is less developed than Don Det. The Irrawaddy dolphin lives in the waters South of this island. The island is connected with Don Det with a bridge built by the French during the colonial era. During the rainy season it is up to 12 km wide. When the water goes back, there are many small islands. It is this phenomenon that gave the region its name.

TAD LI PHI WATERFALL
Is another amazing natural site to visit. Relax, enjoy the scenery, watch people fishing, and enjoy a dish of freshly caught Mekong fish. This waterfall is named after a sacred Buddha image (Pha), which was dropped in the water-never to be found again by the first King of Laos, Chao Fa Ngum, who was travelling the region by boat. The name Li Phi was given to the area because it acts like a giant fish trap (Li) and will kill any of those who dare to navigate it (Phi means ghost or dead person).

TAD KHONE PHAPHENG WATERFALL

13 km from the Cambodian border and east of Don Khone on the Mekong River is the pearl of the Mekong, Khone Phapheng Waterfall. Here the Mekong Cascades across a wide fault line, which slopes in curvilinear pattern and causes the river to pass through with awesome power. Khone Phapheng is the largest waterfall by water volume in due to its great power and steep descent, the waterfall renders this area of the Mekong unnavigable, before flowing peacefully South into Cambodia and Vietnam.

Overnight in Pakse(B,L)

Distance: 190 km / 4.5 hrs