Updated 16 days. Best of Cambodia and Laos

Day 1: Vientiane arrival

Arrive in Vientiane, our driver welcomes and transfers you to hotel. Your leisure time in the city on your own.

• Overnight in Vientiane
• N/A

Day 2: Vientiane (leisure time)

After breakfast at your hotel, enjoy your leisure time in the city on your own.

• Overnight in Vientiane
• B

Day 3: Vientiane – Vang Vieng

Vientiane is a charming and fascinating capital, with an interesting mix of Lao, Thai, Chinese, Vietnamese, French, and American influences.
Today, we start visiting the major sights of the capital; including Wat Sisaket, the oldest temple with thousands of miniature Buddha statues, and the former royal temple of Wat Prakeo, which previously housed the famous Emerald Buddha Image.
Enroute to Lao’s national icon, the precious and sacred structure of That Luang Stupa, you will have the opportunity to take some pictures of the imposing Patuxay Monument, which is known as Vientiane’s own Arc de Triumph.
In the afternoon, we leave the capital early for our journey northbound to Vang Vieng.
We will see some breathtaking scenery enroute as we pass through spectacular countryside towards the mountainous region.
After checking into your hotel you are at your own leisure.

Distance: 160KM | 4-hour transfer

• Overnight in Vang Vieng
• B,L

Day 4: Vang Vieng → Exploration

Today, we embark on a full day of adventure in a songthaew/minivan, immersing ourselves in the natural beauty of Vang Vieng. Our first stop is Tham Jang, a renowned cave that served as a refuge for local residents during the Chinese invasion two centuries ago.
Next, we’ll visit Tham Nangfa, also known as Angel Cave. This cave boasts vast limestone formations and breathtaking stalactites in unique configurations. The enchanting beauty of Angel Cave makes it a perfect spot for photography and quiet contemplation. For those seeking an extra thrill, we recommend a zipline flight over the area, offering an exhilarating way to admire the stunning views from above (An additional charge of $19 per person applies for the zipline).
After exploring these magnificent caves, we’ll head to Blue Lagoon 2, a tranquil spot ideal for relaxation and cooling off. Surrounded by lush greenery and clear blue waters, Blue Lagoon 2 offers a refreshing escape where you can swim, relax, and enjoy the serene environment.
After that, enjoy 30-minute cruise upstream on the Nam Song River aboard a local long-tail boat (with two people per boat), soaking in the picturesque surroundings.
The return journey to your hotel offers the option to stop at local villages and a market.
the remainder of the day is yours to relax, culminating in the enjoyment of a beautiful sunset over the Nam Song River from your hotel. Your night will be spent in Vang Vieng.
Optional (not included): Consider a hot-air balloon ride over the Vang Vieng mountains during the late afternoon as the sun sets, offering a splendid view of the surrounding nature. Please note that a surcharge of $145 per person applies (subject to change based on gas prices and/or tax policy alterations). For additional information, consult our team.

• Overnight in Vang Vieng
• B,L

Day 5: Vang Vieng → Xieng Khuang

In the morning, we start our expedition to Xieng Khuang. The roads are well paved along the way for a smooth journey.
We pass some stunning landscape scenery with a mixture of steep terraced fields and hill villages.
We have chance to take a few photo stops at some small hill tribe village enroute. Each hill tribe village in Laos has a different feel, some are more prosperous than others but all have plenty of life.
Our most impressive stop is at the peak of Phou Phiengpha offerring the panoramic view over the mountainous area.
From there, we will drive a bit further to the T-Junction in Phoukhoun, and take the right turn onto Xieng Khuang province.
After that, the road is getting a bit harder which includes some zigzagging mountain paths; and we will make some stop along the way to visit the local hill tribe villages, or to stretch your legs.
We will make a short stop at Tham Pra, which served as the hospital during the Indochina Wars before arriving in Phonsavanh. Overnight in Phonsavanh
Distance: 271KM | 7-8 hour transfer

• Overnight in Vientiane
• B,L

Day 6: XIENG KHUANG – PLAIN OF JARS SITE – MUANG KHOUN

Early morning, we visit the Central Market of Phonsavanh to watch the different hill tribe people barter and exchange merchandises.
After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a half day trip to Muang Khoune, the old provincial capital that was not been destroyed by the American bombings during the secret war.
Muang Khoun is home to unique sitting giant Buddha as well of some old pagodas that lies in ruins. The foundation and columns of Wat Pia Wat are still standing and close to this site, there is also an old 30m stupa constructed in the Lan Xang/Lanna period.
In the afternoon, visit the thought-provoking UXO Information Centre, run by British organisation MAG (Mines Advisory Group) that’s been helping to clear Laos’ unexploded ordnance since 1994. The centre’s information displays underline the enormity of the bomb drops, and there are also examples of (defused) UXO to ponder.
Xieng Khuang is famous for its mysterious Plain of Jars, a huge archaeological complex littered with mysterious 2000 years old stone jars sized from 70cm up to 3 or 4 meters.
You have time today to visit the plain of jars Site 1, the biggest and closest to town that opened for tourists.

Attention: The Plain of Jars has been heavily bombed during the war and you have to respect all the signs and stay along the defined trails due to bombs, UXO and landmines.
Spend the rest of the day wander around the small town of Xieng Khuang to admire the life of local people.
Then return to Xieng Khouang and overnight.

• Overnight in Xieng Khouang
• B,L

Day 7: Xieng Khuang → Luang Prabang

Early morning, we depart to Luang Prabang via the windy zigzagging mountain paths, enjoying the splendid natural scenery of the mountains, the forest and landscape.
The roads are well paved along the way for a smooth journey; we pass some stunning landscape scenery with a mixture of steep terraced fields and hill villages, we take a few photo stops at some small hill tribe village en route.
Each hill tribe village in Laos has a different feel, some are more prosperous than others but all have plenty of life.
We will make a shot stop at Ban Phoudam village, where we can see the two hill tribe minorities of H’Mong and Khamu living in harmony, before driving to the photo stop at Ban Kiew Nya for the panoramic view prior to reaching Luang Prabang.
Distance: 299KM | 9-10 hour transfer

• Overnight in Luang Prabang
• B,L

Day 8: Luang Prabang → Pak Ou caves

After breakfast, you will first visit Royal Palace Museum, which was built in 1904 during the French colonial era for King Sisavang Vong and his family.
We then embark on a leisure cruise upstream on the Mekong River, which also gives us a breathtaking view of the tranquil countryside, before reaching the mysterious Pak Ou Caves, two linked caves crammed with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes left by pilgrims.
Along the way, we stop at the village of Ban Xanghai, where they make the local rice wine.
On arrival back in the city, we will visit the old Wat Sene and the nearby magnificent Wat Xiengthong a superb piece of Lao temple architecture, which presents a sweeping two-tiered roof and ornate mosaics including a beautiful ‘tree of life ‘glass montage on the rear temple wall.
Next, we will visit Heuan Chan, a 19th-century aristocratic mansion that offers a glimpse into Lao culture through traditional ceremonies, textiles, and family life. This restored mansion stands as a testament to Lao heritage, featuring enriching exhibitions and a documentary on Laos customs.
After the visit, we’ll have the opportunity to taste authentic Lao coffee or tea, providing a true taste of Laos.
Late afternoon, we will make a stop at Wat Prabath to admire the sunset; this is the ideal place to catch the last beauty of the day.
The tour ends after a visit to the famous Night Market, where you can find a lovely collection of handmade textiles made by local and hilltribe people surrounding Luang Prabang.

• Overnight in Luang Prabang
• B,L

Day 9: Luang Prabang → Kuang Si Falls 

Wake up as the sun rises, we will prepare to join the most sacred tradition of Laos, the daily morning alms giving, which dates to the 14th century. More than 200 Buddhist monks depart from various temple to gather their daily meal from the faithful residents sitting quietly on the streets.

We then visit the temporary morning market near the former Royal Palace which offers a glimpse into daily life, with vendors selling fresh produce, handmade crafts, and textiles. These experiences provide a unique and authentic cultural immersion.
After breakfast at the hotel, we ascend the 329 steps to the top of Phousi Hill for a panoramic view of the city and the Mekong River.
Then transfer directly to the beautiful Kuang Si, which is the biggest waterfall in the Luang Prabang area with three tiers leading to a 50-metre drop into spectacular azure pools before flowing downstream. The pools also make great swimming holes and are very popular with both tourists and locals There is also the chance to walk to the nearby village of Ban Thapene, and explore the hidden waterfalls, which is rarely visited by other tourists If you wish, take a short visit to the Bear Rescue Center, which houses a couple of dozen animals
rescued from the hands of poachers and traffickers.
Returning to town, we make a brief stop at the Ock Pop Tock Living Craft Center, nestled peacefully by the Mekong River. Here, artisans craft high-quality fabrics using traditional techniques. You’re encouraged to enhance your experience with a complimentary audio guide
detailing the center’s significance in Lao culture and history.
Transfer back to your hotel in the late afternoon. Overnight in Luang Prabang

• Overnight in Luang Prabang
• B,L

Day 10: Luang Prabang → Elephant Village

8:00 am – 8:30AM:  Pick up by our English speaking guide from your hotel lobby within Luang Prabang, Laos
Arrival at the Elephant Village Camp: Welcome greeting by your guide and participate in a short briefing about elephants
Elephant Feeding: Get up close and personal with elephants
Explore Elephant Village:  Visit our elephant hospital, museum, gallery and dung paper making facility!
Learn to communicate: Enjoy the impressive experience of being a Mahout and how they communicate.
Boat trip to the Tad Sae Waterfall: Ride in a traditional Lao long boat to the Tad Sae Waterfall and relax or swim in the clear water.  Swimsuit recommended!  (note: water levels will vary with seasonal conditions)
Lunch: Dine at our Elephant Camp restaurant.  Your buffet lunch is served with coffee / tea and drinking water (vegetarian options are available)
1:00pm: Depart the camp. Transfer back to your hotel in Luang Prabang

• Overnight in Luang Prabang
• B,L

Day 11: Luang Prabang – Nahm Dong Park

After departing at 8:30 am from your hotel, transfer to Nahm Dong park, which locates in Ban Xiengmouk, 10Km from city center.
Arriving at the park, we will have a short welcome by the park manager before joining the morning activities here.
We will first start with the Zipline flying over the jungle and the waterfalls admiring the amazing evergreen scenery. The zipline will take about 1 hour.
Then we will walk back via the jungle trail crossing some flying bridges, small streams, and clear natural pools, where you can take a refresh splash if you wish so.
The picnic lunch will be served at the viewpoint where you can spread your view over the region, including the view of mount Phousi in the city center.
You can either spend the rest of the afternoon stroll around the park, relax by one of the huts at the camp, or enjoy the fresh cool clear natural pools.
Note: Zipline in 1 hour, trekking min 1 hour – max 3 hours depending on the route that you choose

• Overnight in Luang Prabang
• B,L

Day 12: Luang Prabang → Siem Reap

After breakfast, your leisure time till we transfer you to the airport for flight to Siem Reap. Arrive in Siem Reap, our driver welcomes and transfers you to hotel for your stay.

• Overnight in Siem Reap
• B

Day 13: Siem Reap (leisure time)

After breakfast, enjoy your leisure time in the city on your own.

• Overnight in Siem Reap
• B

Day 14: Siem Reap (exploration)

Morning, visit some famous temples in Siem Reap including: East Mebon, Ta Som, Neak Panan, Preah Khan, Pre Rup. Afternoon, sightseeing at the Tonle Sap Lake, the “Great Lake” of Cambodia, on a traditional wooden boat.

• Overnight in Siem Reap
• B,L

Day 15: Siem Reap (leisure time)

After breakfast, enjoy your leisure time in the city on your own.

• Overnight in Siem Reap
• B

Day 16: Siem Reap → Departure

After breakfast, spend some leisure time in Siem Reap until it is time for your departure flight home.

B

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