Vientiane Airport – Vientiane (4 km): 15 min

Upon arrival to Vientiane, our guide and driver will be waiting to provide transport to the hotel for check in. After relaxing in the hotel, head out for a quick afternoon orientation tour.

Begin with a visit to the Patuxay monument, Laos’ version of the Arc de Triomphe. Climbing to the top of the monument, some amazing panoramic views await over the city. Afterwards, pay a visit to That Luang, the holiest site in Laos.

Overnight in Vientiane

Vientiane – Vientiane Airport (4 km): 15 min Luang Prabang Airport – Luang Prabang (4 km): 15 min

After breakfast at the hotel, embark on a guided tour through the hidden charms of Vientiane. The city tour begins at the serene Wat Sisaket, one of the most beautiful temples in the capital. Continue on to the nearby Wat Phra Keo, which is today used as a religious museum displaying a collection of both Khmer and Lao artworks. Also nearby is the Presidential Palace, a unique glimpse into the colonial history of Vientiane (viewed from the outside).

Next pay a visit to Wat Simuang, the most popular and venerated temple in Vientiane. Enjoy a delicious lao -style lunch at Lao Kitchen.

After lunch, pay a visit to COPE, an association working to help landmine victims. A visit to the center provides in-depth information about the history of the American/Vietnam war and the lasting impact of unexploded ordinances (UXO) in the area and the efforts underway to clear them.

Our guide and driver will then provide transport to the airport for the flight north to Luang Prabang.

Upon arrival to Luang Prabang, our guide and driver will provide transport to the hotel for check in. Enjoy the remainder of the day free at leisure.

Overnight in Luang Prabang

After breakfast, the city tour begins with a visit to the former Royal Palace, now the National Museum, offering an in-depth history of Laos. Continue on foot to Wat Mai, a temple renowned for its golden bas-relief, and Wat Sensoukarahm, which features a beautiful dazzling golden façade. End this morning’s tour a Wat Xieng Thong, Laos’ most photographed temple.

Break for lunch (not included).

This afternoon, visit Wat Visoun, the holiest temple of the city. Afterwards, pay a visit to the Traditional Arts & Ethnology Centre, a museum dedicated to exploring the rich diversity of Laos’ ethnic minorities. The museum’s display features traditional costumes, tools and artifacts alongside in-depth descriptions and written histories. (Note: closed on Monday).

In the evening, take part in one of Laos’ oldest traditions: The Baci. The purpose of the Baci, which is a mix of Animist and Buddhist beliefs, is to call back escaped spirits to the body. This is an important ceremony held before major events such as weddings, births, travel, welcoming friends and farewells.

Overnight in Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang – Kuang Si (32 km): 1 hour

For early risers, there is a very special dawn visit to watch the monks collecting the alms. As the sun begins to rise, long lines of orange-robed monks leave their pagodas and walk barefoot down the streets collecting offerings from Luang Prabang residents.

After breakfast at the hotel, depart from Luang Prabang for the Kuang Si Waterfalls.

Upon reaching Kuang Si Waterfall, relax and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings. The jungle and dense woods surrounding the falls are perfect for exploring on foot. For the adventurous, it is possible to walk to the top of the falls via a steep track where stunning views await. The pools at the base of the waterfalls are also great for swimming (please dress modestly).

On the way back, there is an optional visit to the Free the Bears sanctuary, housing 23 Asiatic Bears that were rescued from poachers. An additional visit can be made at the unique Lao Buffalo Dairy Farm, a social enterprise that produces sustainable and delicious cheese while giving back to the community and environment. While the buffalo may be the stars here, there are also playful pigs, cheeky chickens and rollicking rabbits that are just as fun to interact with for the young and young at heart. Enjoy a homemade ice cream at the cafe before saying goodbye to the Buffaloes and the team. (Opening Hours: 9.30am – 5.30pm, Monday - Sunday)

Return to the hotel and enjoy time at leisure until 16:00 pm.

Head to the centrally located Mount Phousi (transport provided) to climb the hills 328 steps. At the top of the hill, stunning panoramic views await, which are accentuated by the beautiful sunset. Upon descent, make a stop at the nearby Night Market before heading back to the hotel.

Overnight in Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang – Kamu Lodge by boat: 3 hours

After breakfast, embark on a cruise up the Mekong River from Luang Prabang to the Kamu Lodge, taking approximately 3 hours. Along the way stop at the Pak Ou Caves. Locally referred to as Tam Ting, these two caves are carved out of towering limestone cliffs and contain thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues.

Continue upriver for another hour to reach the Kamu Lodge (around lunch time.) The Kamu Lodge features 20 private canvas tents, each which is protected from the elements by a thatched roof. The tents are also decorated with bamboo and wooden furniture allowing the Lodge's grounds to harmoniously blend with surrounding nature. They each feature private bathrooms with solar powered hot water and electricity.

This afternoon, participate in a variety of local activities:

• Rice planting and harvesting in surrounding rice fields

• Gold panning (January to June) in the Mekong

• Traditional fishing techniques in the Mekong

• Local village visit and encounters

Dinner and overnight at the Lodge

Kamu Lodge – Luang Prabang by boat: 3 hours

Enjoy breakfast and the remainder of the morning at leisure (check-out time: 10:30)

After lunch at the Lodge, the boat will depart around 14:00 for the cruise down to Luang Prabang, arriving around 17:00

Overnight in Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang – Luang Prabang Airport (4 km): 15 min

After breakfast, enjoy free leisure time until transferring to the airport for the onward flight.

Depending on the flight schedule, there may be a chance to visit the Heritage Information Center to learn more about the programs and projects underway to preserve the historic buildings in Luang Prabang.