Amazing Laos Package – 17 Days

GENERAL INFORMATION

Tour Route: Vientiane – Nam Pien Yola Pa – Vang Vieng – Luang Prabang – Chi Kung Session- Paske – Don Khor – Vientiane.
Duration: 17 Days/ 16 Nights
Date: No fixed departure dates. You may go whenever you wish.
Start/ End: Vientiane/Vientiane
Tour Customizable: Definitely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Accommodation: Listed below or equivalent

BRIEF ITINERARY

Day 1: Vientiane Arrival (-)
Day 2: Vientiane – Phou Khao Khuay – Nam Pien Yola Pa (B)
Day 3: Full-day Orchid Trek (B, L)
Day 4: Nam Pien Yola Pa – drive to Vang Vieng – Boat trip Nam Song River (B)
Day 5: Free day (B)
Day 6: Hot Air balloon – train to Luang Prabang – Garavek Story telling show (B)
Day 7: Half-day Detox experience – afternoon charter sunset dinner cruise (B, D)
Day 8: Floral offering class – Monk blessing – city tour (B)
Day 9: Free at leisure (B)
Day 10: Full-day sustainable experiences at Nahm Dong Park (B)
Day 11: Culinary tour with expert – afternoon communication with Elephant (non-riding experience) (B, L)
Day 12: Luang Prabang – fly to Pakse – Don Khor – Pakse (B)
Day 13: Coffee Tour at Bolaven Plateaux by Jeep – Pakse (B, L)
Day 14: Pakse – Wat Phou – Don Deang (B)
Day 15: 4000 Islands surroundings – Done Deang (B)
Day 16: Back to Pakse – fly to Vientiane (B)
Day 17: Vientiane departure (B)

FULL ITINERARY

Day 1: Vientiane Arrival

Upon arrival, enjoy VIP fast-track services followed by a warm welcome from your private guide and driver, who will then escort you to your hotel for check-in.

Day 2: Vientiane – Phou Khao Khuay – Nam Pien Yola Pa (B)

This morning, after checking out from the hotel, we will visit the renowned That Luang Stupa and capture some photos of the impressive Patuxay Monument, often likened to Vientiane’s Arc de Triomphe. We then depart the city for Phou Khao Khouay Biodiversity Conservation National Park, a journey of approximately 1.5 hours. Along the way, we'll stop at a local market to see a variety of products including vegetables, insects, and other specialties sold by villagers from nearby communities. Upon arrival at Nam Pien Yola Pa, we will check in to our hotel.

In the afternoon, we will embark on a half-day tour exploring the park, with the option to trek and zipline to visit waterfalls, or enjoy kayaking on the streams and rivers.

Overnight at Nam Pien Yola Pa.

Day 3: Full-day Orchid Trek (B, L)

Meeting at 9:00 AM, our local guide will be ready with a prepared picnic. We'll travel 7 km by vehicle through the forest to reach the starting point of our orchid trek. The journey begins at Pha Say waterfall, offering a stunning view over a 50m high gorge and dense jungle. Around this viewpoint, orchids like Bulbophyllum, Panisea, Coelogyne, Phalaenopsis, and Thecostele adorn the trees and rocks.

The trek proceeds along shaded paths through various forest types: semi-deciduous, jungle, and bamboo, providing opportunities to observe diverse habitats. Orchids abound, covering rocks and some trees in certain areas. Some habitats are particularly remarkable. Along the way, you'll also learn about medicinal plants and other plant families such as Rattans, Gingers, and Dypterocarpus, including their uses.

We'll enjoy our picnic in the shade of trees near the dry riverbed, or at Tad Say waterfall, depending on the season. The afternoon concludes with a refreshing swim in the picturesque setting of Tad Say waterfall before returning to the village and back to Nam Pien Yola Pa.

Overnight at Nam Pien Yola Pa.

Day 4: Nam Pien Yola Pa – drive to Vang Vieng – Boat trip Nam Song River (B)

This morning, we'll journey to Vang Vieng. Upon arrival, we'll visit Tham Jang Cave. Later, we'll enjoy a relaxing boat trip on the Nam Song River before returning to the hotel for overnight stay.

Day 5: Free day (B)

Free at your leisure to explore the little town.

Suggestion for optional tour:

• Half-day kayaking & caving on Nam Song River
• Secret Eden trekking

Day 6: Hot Air Balloon – train to Luang Prabang – Garavek Storytelling show (B)

Early in the morning, we'll embark on a Hot Air Balloon ride to experience the stunning panoramic views of Vang Vieng. Afterward, we'll return to the hotel for breakfast. Later in the mid-morning, we'll transfer to the train station to catch a speed train to Luang Prabang. Upon arrival, we'll transfer to the hotel for check-in.

In the evening, we'll enjoy the Garavek storytelling at a warm and cozy theater in the heart of Luang Prabang. These tales, accompanied by the khene, a handmade bamboo mouth organ (recognized as a UNESCO heritage of Laos), narrate the origins of local landmarks like Mount Phusi and the Mekong River, and tell stories of legendary figures such as Xieng Mieng and Chao Fa Ngum.

Day 7: Half-day Detox experience – afternoon charter sunset dinner cruise (B, D)

After breakfast, we'll transfer to a venue next to the Nam Khan River. At 8:30 AM, your Chi Kung & Meditation teacher will greet you. The detox session starts with a 40-minute Chi Kung session, an ancient Chinese practice aimed at harmonizing energy circulation in the body. This will be followed by a 35-minute meditation session known as "Yoga Nidra" for deep relaxation. Afterward, enjoy a vegetarian breakfast made from organic farm produce. You'll have an hour to explore the gardens before indulging in a massage by qualified therapists.

In the late afternoon, we'll head to the boat pier for a private traditional cruise, perfect for enjoying a sunset dinner. The leisurely 2.5-hour boat trip offers scenic views of Luang Prabang from the Mekong River. We'll sail towards the Pha Tad Ke Botanical Garden area, renowned for its stunning sunset vistas. Enjoy dinner onboard before returning to the pier and transferring back to the hotel for overnight stay.

Day 8: Floral offering class – Monk blessing – city tour (B)

After breakfast, we'll visit the Heritage House for a hands-on experience in traditional floral decoration using banana leaves and local flowers from the surrounding jungles. You'll create a religious offering known as Van-Cornet. Afterwards, we'll take our floral set to a local temple for a blessing ceremony by a Monk, believed to bring health, happiness, and longevity.

Following a short break, our city tour begins at the National Museum, housed in the former Royal Palace, showcasing artifacts spanning Laos' cultural history from early kings to the last sovereign. We'll then proceed to the magnificent Wat Xieng Thong, renowned for its sweeping low-slung roofs that exemplify classical Laotian architecture.

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Day 9: Free at leisure (B)

Free at your leisure.
Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Day 10: Full-day sustainable experiences at Nahm Dong Park (B)

After breakfast, we'll head to Nahm Dong Park, spanning 18 hectares of lush greenery and rushing waters, showcasing beautiful plants and exquisite flora and fauna. Upon arrival, we'll embark on a short hike through the forest, exploring the Garden of Senses dedicated to the five senses and traditional medicinal plants. We'll also visit three traditional ethnic houses representing different Lao building styles and explore a bee exhibition. You'll have the option to swim in the natural spring pool of the waterfall or participate in a one-hour zipline or treetop walking adventure.

Later, we'll participate in a class on making natural plates and containers. In response to Asia's plastic waste issue, these products offer an eco-friendly alternative to plastic and polymer-based items. Areca sheath provides a strong and durable material for plates and containers, while other leaves collected from the ground can also be used without harming trees. These materials are organic and free from any chemicals. Afterward, we'll return to Luang Prabang town for overnight accommodation.

Day 11: Culinary tour with expert – afternoon communication with Elephant (non-riding experience) (B, L)

Today, we'll join Tamarind’s head chef and owner, Mr. Joy Ngeuamboupha, for an engaging half-day cooking class. Mr. Joy will lead us on a thorough market tour to discover local cuisine and recipes. The class takes place at a serene venue outside the town, surrounded by a lily pond and scenic jungle-covered mountains.

In the afternoon, we'll meet our guide and head to Mandalao for a private elephant experience. This non-riding elephant camp prioritizes animal welfare. We'll learn about elephant behavior and communication, and participate in preparing special treats that aid in their digestion. After crossing the Nam Khan river by long-tail boat, we'll meet our elephants, feed them the treats we made, and embark on a gentle 1 km trek alongside them along the Hoy Kang stream. The trek is flat and adaptable to participants’ abilities. Afterward, we'll return to Mandalao, enjoy snacks on the deck, and then head back to Luang Prabang.

Day 12: Luang Prabang – fly to Pakse – Don Khor – Pakse (B)

After breakfast at the hotel, we'll transfer to the airport for a short flight to Pakse. Upon arrival, our guide will meet us at the airport.

In the afternoon, we'll visit the local artisans in the village of Don Khor, near Vat Chompet, home to a majestic 30-meter high Buddha statue. Here, we can observe stone carvers creating traditional Buddha images, appreciating their intricate work. We'll then visit Wat Chompet to admire its impressive golden Buddha; visitors can enter respectfully, ensuring shoulders and knees are covered. Continuing our tour, we'll proceed to Phou Salao to visit the remarkable Golden Buddha at Wat Phou Salao, offering a panoramic view of Champasak province. The more adventurous may opt to climb the 200 steps to the temple, while others can reach the summit comfortably by vehicle.

Come back hotel for overnight.

Day 13: Coffee Tour at Bolaven Plateaux by Jeep – Pakse (B, L)

This morning, we'll travel to Paksong. Upon arriving at B Beng, we'll switch to a Jeep and embark on the Coffee Trail adventure. Our first stop is Tad Moun waterfall, where we can explore and swim before continuing through vegetable fields and muddy roads (especially enjoyable during the rainy season). Lunch will be served at Mystic Mountain Coffee farm, where Mr. Khamsone, the owner, will demonstrate the coffee roasting process and conclude with a coffee tasting session featuring Robusta, Arabica, and Typica varieties.

In the afternoon, we'll trek for an hour to explore the coffee farm, then proceed to visit Laven Village before returning to Paksong and eventually back to Pakse for an overnight stay.

Day 14: Pakse – Wat Phou – Don Deang (B)

This morning, we'll journey to explore the ruins of Wat Phou Temple Complex, situated dramatically at the base of Mount Phu Kao. These Khmer ruins, dating back to the 9th century, are one of Southeast Asia’s most intriguing archaeological sites and a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2001. They predate Cambodia's famous Angkor Wat. Annually, a festival at this site during February's full moon draws pilgrims from across southern Laos.

Afterward, we'll transfer to Done Daeng and cross the river to reach La Folie Lodge.

Day 15: 4000 Islands surroundings – Done Deang (B)

This morning, we'll transfer to the 4000 Islands. Upon arrival, we'll explore the surrounding countryside and embark on a long-tail boat tour to Don Khone. Here, you have the option to explore the island by bicycle, visiting remnants from the French colonial period and Liphi Waterfall, also known as "the Corridor of the Devil." We'll return to the mainland at the fishing village of Ban Nakasang and continue south to visit Khone Phapheng. Known as the largest waterfall by volume in Southeast Asia, Khone Phapheng is located near the Lao-Cambodian border amidst a wildlife-rich area, making it one of Laos' most awe-inspiring destinations. Finally, we'll drive back to Done Daeng for overnight stay.

Day 16: Back to Pakse – fly to Vientiane (B)

This morning, we bid farewell to Done Daeng and transfer to Pakse Airport for our flight to Vientiane. Upon arrival, we'll be greeted by our tour guide and transferred to the hotel for check-in.

Day 17: Vientiane departure (B)

Transfer to the airport for your departure flight back home. Safe travels!

See you again on the next trips with Indochina Tours!

Inclusions

• Private transportation in with air-conditioned: Toyota Hiace new version 2020-2023
• English speaking guides
• Admission fee to indicated sights
• Morning alms giving
• VIP Fast track services at Vientiane Airport (including Visa fee USD 40/pax)
• Activity at Nam Pien Yorla Pa Resort
• Speed train ticket Vang Vieng – Luang Prabang (first class, one way)
• Full day Orchid Trek (private)
• Hot Air Balloon riding (join in)
• Boat trip at Nam Song & in 4000 Islands
• Garavek Story telling show (join in ticket)
• Half day Detox (private)
• Charter sunset cruise dinner
• Floral offering class (private)
• Monk Blessing ceremony at local temple (private)
• Full-day activity at Nahm Dong Park (private)
• Culinary tour with expert (private)
• Private Communication with Elephant in the afternoon
• Private Jeep tour in Southern Laos
• Government tax and service charge
• Luggage handling
• 2 bottles of drinking water per day during the tour
• 2 cold towels per day during the tour

Exclusions

• Travel insurance (compulsory)
• Domestic airfare and airport tax in Laos
• International airfare and airport tax to & from Laos
• Compulsory dinner on 31 Dec 2024 at La Folie Lodge – US$ 60 per person
• Early check- in or late check-out (except as indicated)
• Beverages and other meals do not indicate in the program
• Single room
• Optional excursions and entrance fees and permits during free time
• Additional transportation required due to any emergency situation
• Tipping/ Gratuities
• Personal expenses such as telephone and laundry bills, shopping…
• Excess luggage charges
• Any additional expenses caused by reasons beyond our control such as natural calamities (typhoon, floods), flight delays, rescheduling or cancellations, any accidents, medical evacuations, riots, strikes etc