Welcome to Laos, the warm heart of Asia and a country that offers infinite beauty for the soulful adventurer. Delve into the world of the Laotian way of life, which offers peace and openness so often missing in our hectic lives.
Our Laos Highlights:
- Historic colonial city
- Unspoiled rivers
- Caves
- Breathtaking vistas
- River rafting / camping in the jungle
- Trekking into the mountain communities of the Hmong und Khmu people
- Mountain biking
- Kayaking
- Elephant safari
- Stunning waterfalls
- Cultural city of Luang Phabang and its temples
- Monasteries
- The majestic Mekong River and the Cave of the Thousand Buddhas
Tour Itinerary:
Day 0: Flight to Asia or to Laos and connect to Vientiane.
Day 1: Arrival in Vientiane. You may arrive at any time of the day at our meeting point and hotel. After settling into accommodations in the center of the city, we spend the afternoon exploring its magnificent colonial buildings, taking in its provincial flair. In the evening, those who are up for it can check out the nightlife or try the local beer "Lao". Welcome dinner. (D)
Day 2: Monasteries, Colonial Heritage, Museum. Today we have time to become more familiar with the city and its sights such as the renovated, active monasteries (Sri Saket, Haw Pha Kaew) and, most importantly, the national monument "Pra Thrat Luang" with its famed golden paint. In the small monasteries of the city, we’ll meet the friendly young monks in their saffron robes, who gladly show us their homes and describe their lives of devotion. (B)
Day 3: From Vientiane to Vang Vieng. After breakfast, we drive north to the small city of Vang Vieng (approx. 160 km), which is tucked in among rocky cliffs and a small river and has retained its unique charm. In the afternoon, we explore a nearby cave and subsequently enjoy the sunset and silence at the river. Here we stay in a small guesthouse near the river. (B)
Day 4: Hiking, Caving and Kayaking. This day trip brings us to hidden caves and the surrounding villages. We become part of this unbelievable landscape of rock, jungle and rivers. In the afternoon, we paddle by kayak back to Vang Vieng. The area offers other options as well, such as extensive hikes, further cave exploration and enjoyment of the expansive landscape. (B, L)
Day 5: Vang Vieng and a Cave Expedition in the Highlands. We now travel deeper into the mountains and the green hinterland. Slowly the road winds along the slopes, over mountain passes and through small villages. In the afternoon, we reach a recently discovered cave. With adventurous spirit and our equipment, we rise into the dark and cool to investigate the wealth of this hidden place. We spend the night in a small lodge. (B, L)
Day 6: The Adventure Takes its Course. Rafting on the Nam Ming River. After breakfast, we head out by minibus for our river adventure – (approx. 1.5 hrs). With our rafts, we embark onto the Nam Ming and paddle by the tides of the river through the wildly enchanting landscape.
Equipped with sturdy rafts, life jackets, helmets and our guides, we head into a genuine adventure among rivers, forests, mountain ranges and villages. We spend the night in tents and share a campfire on the beach along the river. During this rafting trip, each participant must carry limited luggage. The large luggage is transported to our office in Luang Phabang where we will arrive on Day 11. (B, L, D)
Day 7: Trekking Day 1: - Highlands of Laos – Local Peoples - Jungle. We continue on foot, and our challenging multi-day trek takes us through the hinterland of Laos, which is difficult to reach. Our guides lead us from village to village, and we have an opportunity to observe the true, original life of the local people. We will have home-stays with the villagers and bed down with mosquito nets and sleeping mats in their homes. (B, L, D)
Day 8: Trekking Day 2: - Highlands of Laos – Local Peoples - Jungle. We migrate further into the remote and sparsely populated areas of the hinterland. Wilderness and agriculture co-mingle in this ancient homeland of the mountain people. Here, we meet the Hmong and the Khmu, who make their living by crop rotation and raising small farm animals. Over wildly overgrown mountains, we make our way towards the Nam Khan, which we will soon travel. (B, L, D)
Day 9: Trekking Day 3: - Highlands of Laos – Jungle Resort, Elephant Camp. Our last trekking day brings us down into the neighboring plains. At midday, we arrive at a beautiful resort. Here we rediscover all the amenities of civilization along a lovely river near beautiful bungalows.
The first thing you may wish to do is to take a shower- or you can choose a bath with our giant neighbors, the elephants! The resort boasts a first-class restaurant. We spend the night here in this beautifully landscaped oasis. (B, L)
Day 10: Elephant Trip - Waterfall - Kayak – Cultural Capital Luang Phabang. On the last day of our intensive adventure, we share an unforgettable experience.
A morning bath with elephants, the ride to the Tad Sea Waterfalls on our thick-skinned friends, a refreshing bath in the waterfall and our subsequent arrival at the cultural capital of Luang Phabang are the icing on the cake of this unique program! In the evening, time remains for exploring this stunning and idyllic city. Hotel overnight accommodations are included. (B, L)
Day 11: Luang Phabang Tour of the City, Temples, Monasteries and the Majestic Mekong River. There is much to see in today's itinerary, and we will accomplish as much as we can. Our focus is the history and beauty of the city.
The old partially renovated colonial buildings and over 20 monasteries in the city are alone worth a whole day. In addition, the monastery mountain Phou Si, with its grand view of the city, offers another high point of full discoveries and experiences. We can converse with monks on the steps of the monasteries, and later stop in at one of the delicious roadside restaurants. (B)
Day 12: Relaxing in Luang Phabang. Following such an active schedule, we take a day to catch a breath, which is close to the souls of the Laotian people. We make peaceful preparations for our next adventure in the north of Laos. Tip: You may wish to try a professional massage in the convenient Spa Garden or take a trip to the nearby Kuang Si Waterfalls. (B)
Day 13: Travel to the North. After breakfast, we leave the city northbound by minibus toward Oudom Xay. A little further along, we stay overnight in the small Muang La where we can relax at the hot springs. Overnight accommodations are in a guesthouse. (B, L)
Day 14: Mountain Biking – with Support Vehicle. With our mountain bikes, we ride through a rural area to Mouang Kua (asphalt road, approx. 60 km). Here we enjoy the life along the roadside and the small places that we happen by. When you tire of biking, you can ride further with our support vehicle. Overnight accommodations are in a guesthouse. (B)
Day 15: Nam Ou Rafting. Today the Nam Ou awaits, which is one of the best rafting rivers in the region. We journey slowly downstream. Here, where there are no roads, life feels completely different from that to which we are accustomed! And we want to share in this peace and tranquility. We arrive in Moung Ngoi where we find our night’s accommodations in one of the small guesthouses. (B, L, D)
Day 16: Moung Ngoi Trekking and Caving. In Moung Ngoi, we interrupt our boat journey for the neighboring caves and the villages of the lowland Laotian people (Lao Lum). A light hike brings us away from the river to the surrounding, rustic villages.
We will stay overnight so that we can experience their way of life close up. This area was heavily bombarded during the Viet Nam war and today one can still see the locals use the old bombshells to plant vegetables. This is journey into history. (B, L, D)
Day 17: Trekking - Rafting to Nong Khiaw. We rise with the roosters and, after breakfast, make our way back to the river. We continue our journey south by raft, heading slowly downstream (depending upon the water level), passing hillsides covered with enormous bamboo plants. The area’s special charm is its isolation and remoteness.
Past small settlements and rapids, we return in the afternoon to a developed area with roads. We arrive in Nong Khiaw where we will stay overnight in a comfortable guesthouse. You can explore the area a little by foot. (B, L)
Day 18: Return to Luang Phabang. After breakfast, we return to Luang Phabang. On our final evening together, we have the opportunity to share the impressions of our journey. (B)
Day 19: Luang Phabang – Flight to Bangkok and Connecting Travel arranged by you.
Day 20: Arrive at Final Destination with long lasting memories.
Other Expenses: We recommend about 10 to 15 US$ per person per day for personal expenses. Typically, this is more than enough because most costs are included.
Day 13: Additional Day in Luang Phabang, Mekong River and Pak Ou Cave. Today you wrap up this shorter version of our trip, but there is still time for a bit more adventure. You journey by boat upriver to the Pak Ou Cave, also called the Cave of the Thousand Buddhas, since here innumerable Buddha statues overlook the Mekong from within the cave. In the afternoon, you head back to Luang Phabang.
Day 14: Departure from Laos. Soon after breakfast, you fly to Bangkok. Here you can make your connection for continuing travel. Or ask us for more possibilities in Thailand and Bangkok.
Day 15: Arrival at Final Destination with long lasting memories.
Don’t Forget:
- Passport and all applicable travel documents
- Emergency contact information, cash or traveler’s cheques
- Insurance information
- Durable travel rucksack: 50-60 liter with weight max. 15 Kilo
- No hardshell suitcases
- Backpack for use during daily activities
- Hidden all-weather money belt
- Toiletry bag with necessities
- Flashlight and hands-free head light
- Light Sleeping bag (for overnights in villages and outside)
- Good shoes and sandals, which should be broken in
- Sunscreen and sunhat
- Clothing: long-sleeve/leg, lightweight, light-colored and a set of short-sleeve/leg
- Swim gear
- Outfit for evening outings
- Necessary medications and supplies.
Price Includes:
- Accommodation in simple and clean hotels and guest houses, as well as camping in tents during
- Breakfast in the hotels; or meals as mentioned: B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner
- Transportation in minibuses, tuk-tuks or boats, rafts, kayaks, bicycles, (other destinations may be arranged upon inquiry)
- All program activities, which includes:
* City tours Hiking Cave exploration Rafting and multi-day treks
* Elephant trip Kayaking Mountain bike tour (not included in lpnger Program) Raft on the Nam Ou
* Trekking and caving in the north (not included in shorter Program)
- English speaking Guides and German agent in Laos
- Additional personnel for activities, such as carriers and aides
- Luggage transfer on Day 6
Member discount:
10% discount for InfoHub customer. Request a free gift certificate.
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Price Does Not Include:
- Anything not specified above
- Travel to/from Laos (no flights included) Local and international airport taxes
- Visa and entry fees for Laos
- Personal local expenses
- Additional food and beverage
- Insurance
- Tips
Also see tour packages in:
Asia
Laos
Ecotourism
Hiking & Trekking
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