Secret war tour 4 days

  • 4 days / 3 nights

Overview

We also do some niche tours. We offer three multidays trips, ( 4 days / 6 days / 10 days), all of which have the same theme: the “secret war”. They are booked by DMC's for mostly American, French, and Australian customers interested in History and the War.
During the Secret War in Laos, there were many places of significance, with Long Tieng being the most famous. Luckily for us it is recently open to the public, and this tour will head straight to this mountain outpost that served as the command and control center of the counter-insurgency here in Laos during the 1960's and early 70's.

We will also visit many other important Lima Sites and talk about their history. And in between we will see stunningly beautiful landscapes, eat local meals and take in their unforgettable hospitality, and visit some of the most popular destinations in Laos.

This tour can be done with minivan, 4x4 truck, or motorcycle.

Highlight

INCLUDED TRAVEL SERVICES

  • All sightseeing as described in program above
  • Transportation in private vehicles (4x4 or motorbike)
  • Transfer from airport and back
  • Accommodation in hotels (twin shared)
  • English speaking guide
  • Admission fees to sights described above
  • Meals: B= breakfast, L= lunch, D= dinner
  • Lao PDR governmental tax and service charge
  • Luggage Handling

Itinerary

Expand All Close All

We start our tour by leaving Luang Prabang and heading south through twisting terrain to Xiang Ngeun and up into the mountains to the Kasi Pass. From there it’s all downhill and we will pass by Lima Site 25 near Kasi and Lima Site 16 which served as the airstrip runway in Vang Vieng, where we stay overnight.

What used to be rice fields set amongst some of the most scenic mountains and surroundings, turned into a backpacker haven fifteen years ago. It became famous for its tubing down the river, rows of bamboo huts selling Lao and western food and showing "Friends" rerun on TV. This vibe is still there, but now the town is starting to attract a more sophisticated traveller coming for the beautiful landscapes, hiking and light adventure. Vang Vieng is a fun place, and great for our first night’s stop. (200 km)..

Today's journey takes us climbing up and around the Nam Ngum Lakes. Reaching those Lakes gives us some great, not to be missed views of the surrounding countryside. Then we hit the new road, and ride down into Long Tieng. Long Tieng was a military base, which during the Laotian Civil War, served as a town and airbase operated by America’s Central Intelligence Agency.

During the Secret War in Laos from 1964-73 no place stood out more than Long Tieng. Only years prior it was all but uninhabited, only to become Laos' second largest city and one of the busiest airports in the world. Filled with 40,000 Hmong fighters dressed in traditional clothing, Khmu and Lao Teung in military uniforms, Thai mercenaries and American pilots and advisors, all in a valley perched on top of a mountain range and surrounded by dense jungle accessible only by plane.

We will tour the airbase site known as Lima Site 20A, visit General Vang Pao’s House along with the King's Palace, Skyline Ridge, the Runway and for the fit amongst us we can climb the speed brake. We’ll see some of it today, and the remainder tomorrow morning.

Overnight stay at a local guesthouse.

After breakfast we will resume touring Long Tieng area. There is a lot to take in, and we will cover anything we missed the day earlier and go over some areas again with a different light.

Then we leave for Phonsavan, which we will reach in the afternoon passing through Xam Thong Lima Site 20 which played a major role in the war. A new school stands on the old Hospital base, and the Air America bunk House Chimney is still standing.

Upon arrival in Phonsavan we will visit the Plain of Jars; a huge site of stone urns, some with lids. What the jars were used for isn’t known, but there are many guesses. The most popular guess is that the jars were used as a ‘burial ground’. Time permitting, we will visit the 1000 step Mountain  and the spoon Village. That evening we will enjoy a nice local style Lao meal in town and then back to our guesthouse, and our last night ‘on the road’

On our last day we get up early and hit the road.  Route 13 heading back to Luang Prabang via Phou Koun takes us high into the mountains, traversing bends, twists and turns. Exciting roads with "jaw dropping" views which are hard to beat anywhere in the world. We will make stops to take photos and take in the views before arriving in Luang Prabang where we will have our final dinner together, undoubtedly talking about the great time we had, and our visit to the "most secret place on earth".

FAQS

Absolutely. This is your bespoke Vietnam boutique tour, designed just for you. Every traveler is unique, and as a leading Vietnam luxury boutique travel company, we’re here to craft a journey that matches your personal style. Whether you’d like to swap destinations, upgrade to luxury boutique hotels, or slow the pace for a deeper cultural immersion, we’ll tailor every detail to reflect your preferences.

We handpick charming boutique hotels known for their comfort, character, and hospitality. In Sapa, you’ll also enjoy a night in a welcoming, well-kept local homestay – a chance to connect with the community and embrace authentic mountain life.

Yes, we strongly recommend travel insurance for any Vietnam boutique tour. While we don’t include it in our packages, this gives you the freedom to choose a plan that suits your needs. Travel insurance ensures you’re protected against unexpected events and provides smooth assistance throughout your journey. Please share your policy details with us before your departure.

Booking your boutique journey is easy. This itinerary serves as inspiration—your actual trip will be custom-built. Simply fill out the request form on our website with your preferences. A local travel specialist from our Vietnam luxury boutique team will then contact you to discuss ideas and fine-tune the plan until you’re fully satisfied.

Once your custom itinerary is finalized, a deposit of 30% is required to confirm your booking. The remaining balance is due around 60 days prior to your travel date. For last-minute bookings, full payment may be needed upfront. We accept bank transfers, Visa/Mastercard, or cash. Your travel expert will guide you through each step clearly and transparently.

We understand that plans can change. Here's a quick summary of our cancellation terms:
- 30% deposit is non-refundable once the booking is confirmed
- 60–46 days before arrival: 50% cancellation fee
- 45–31 days before arrival: 75% cancellation fee
- 30 days or less: 100% cancellation fee

If your tour is impacted by unexpected events (like natural disasters or force majeure), we’ll offer you the option to postpone your trip or refund eligible payments (excluding any unrecoverable costs).

Yes, most travelers will need a visa to enter Vietnam. The process is simple, and we’re happy to guide you through it. If your trip includes neighboring countries, we’ll help you check their specific visa requirements too.

Absolutely! Love the beach? Want more time in the mountains? Or just a little extra downtime? Whatever your dream trip looks like, we’ll tailor the itinerary to include more of what you love. Just tell us what you’re thinking and we’ll make it happen.

Yes – our Vietnam boutique tours are perfect for solo travelers. You’ll enjoy a private, tailor-made itinerary and personalized care from your travel consultant. A single supplement may apply, but we’ll work with you to find elegant yet affordable options. Whether you’re seeking connection, solitude, or adventure, your solo experience will be safe, smooth, and truly special.

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