Insights Into Northern Laos Tour

This trip takes you from the UNESCO World Heritage city of Luang Prabang through the remote mountains to the Plain of Jars in Xieng Khouang. Continue south to Vang Vieng, famous for the Nam Song River set against a backdrop of limestone karsts. Then continue to the capital of Laos, Vientiane.

Day 1: Welcome to the Stunning UNESCO World Heritage City of Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang is perhaps the best-preserved traditional city in Southeast Asia. The tranquility and charm of this UNESCO World Heritage town, combined with its splendid natural scenery and cultural sights, make it one of the most delightful places to visit in Laos.

Upon arrival at the airport, you will be welcomed and transferred to your hotel, where you can relax at your leisure or take a stroll around town. Time permitting, your guide can take you on a short walking tour, including a visit to the Night Market. Here, you can browse a lovely collection of handmade textiles from local and hill tribe communities. If you arrive late, this can be arranged for the following day.

Accommodation: Luang Prabang Inn Hotel (Deluxe Room)

Day 2: Boat Trip to Ban Chan & Pak Ou Caves

This morning, you may wish to wake early and participate in the daily almsgiving ritual, where saffron-robed monks receive offerings, including Laos’ famous sticky rice, from residents.

After breakfast, board a traditional long-tail boat for a scenic journey along the Mekong River to its confluence with the Nam Ou River. Stop at Ban Chan village, just outside Luang Prabang, known for its traditional pottery-making. Here, you will observe the process of crafting pots using traditional methods.

Continue to visit Wat Xiengman and Wat Longkhoun before cruising through beautiful Laotian countryside, passing local villages, and arriving at the fascinating Pak Ou Caves. This cave system consists of two interconnected caves filled with thousands of Buddha statues left by pilgrims over generations.

On the return journey, stop at Ban Xanghai to observe the traditional process of rice wine distillation. Arrive back in Luang Prabang around 5:00 PM.

Accommodation: Luang Prabang Inn Hotel (Deluxe Room)

Day 3: City Tour & Kuang Si Waterfall

Starting at 8:00 AM, visit the Phousi Morning Market, where you will see a wide variety of local products.

Luang Prabang is a fascinating historical city with a delightful mix of Buddhist temples and French colonial buildings. It retains a relaxed, rural charm compared to neighboring cities.

Visit Wat Visoun, originally built in 1513, which houses numerous religious artifacts. Next, head to Wat Xieng Thong, a royal temple built in 1559 on the banks of the Mekong River, known for its intricate carvings, murals, and mosaics.

Continue to the Royal Palace (Haw Kham), built during the French colonial era for the Lao royal family. After the monarchy was abolished in 1975, the palace was converted into a National Museum, now showcasing artifacts that reflect Lao culture and history.

Visit Wat Mai, built in 1796, located at the foot of Mount Phousi.

After lunch, travel to Kuang Si Waterfall and the Bear Rescue Centre, about 30 minutes from Luang Prabang. The waterfall is set in lush jungle surroundings, where you can relax or swim in its turquoise pools.

Return to Luang Prabang, and if time permits, climb Mount Phousi (328 steps) for panoramic views of the town and the Mekong River.

In the evening, explore the Night Bazaar for handmade crafts and textiles.

Accommodation: Luang Prabang Inn Hotel (Deluxe Room)

Day 4: Luang Prabang to Xieng Khouang

After an early breakfast, depart from Luang Prabang and journey through scenic countryside along winding roads to Xieng Khouang. This mountainous region is famous for the mysterious Plain of Jars, with stone structures dating from approximately 500 BC to 500 AD.
(~5–6 hours by road, 310 km)

Accommodation: Vansana Plain of Jars (Standard Room)

Day 5: Plain of Jars & Cave Exploration

Spend the day exploring the Plain of Jars sites. These ancient stone structures remain a mystery, with some artifacts dating back to 2000 BC, spanning the Bronze and Iron Ages. It is believed they were used in ancient funeral rituals.

Take a short trek to Tai Dam and Lao Leum villages. Relax at the thermal springs at Baw Yai and visit Tham Piu Cave, where over 200 people lost their lives during the Indochina War.

Accommodation: Vansana Plain of Jars (Standard Room)

Day 6: Xieng Khouang to Vang Vieng

After breakfast, depart from Xieng Khouang for Vang Vieng, traveling through stunning mountainous landscapes. Vang Vieng is a small rural town set along the Nam Song River, surrounded by dramatic limestone mountains.

Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and enjoy free time at leisure.
(~5 hours by road, 275 km)

Accommodation: Inthira Vang Vieng (Deluxe Room)

Day 7: Tham Jang Cave & Blue Lagoon

After breakfast, explore the Vang Vieng area. Visit Tham Jang Cave, historically used as a shelter during the Indochina War.

You may also visit the Blue Lagoon, where you can swim in its crystal-clear waters.

Accommodation: Inthira Vang Vieng (Deluxe Room)

Day 8: Vang Vieng to Vientiane

After breakfast, drive south to Vientiane, the capital of Laos. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch and check in to your hotel before heading out for a city tour.

Visit major attractions, including Wat Sisaket, the oldest monastery, known for its thousands of miniature Buddha statues, and Wat Prakeo, the former royal temple that housed the Emerald Buddha.

Continue to That Luang Stupa, the most important national monument, and stop at Patuxay Monument, often referred to as Vientiane’s Arc de Triomphe.
(~3–4 hours by road, 165 km)

Accommodation: City Inn Vientiane (Deluxe Room)

Day 9: City Tour & Buddha Park

Today, visit Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan), located about 27 km southeast of Vientiane. This fascinating sculpture park features a collection of ornate and unusual cement statues set in a meadow near the Mekong River.

After your visit, return to the city. On the way back, there may be an opportunity to stop at the Beer Lao factory.

Accommodation: City Inn Vientiane (Deluxe Room)

Day 10: Vientiane – Departure

After breakfast, enjoy free time at leisure until your transfer to the airport or border for departure.

Price Includes:

Accommodation as mentioned in the program

Private transport with air conditioning

English-speaking guide

All entrance fees

All boat trips/boat tickets

Tuk-tuk/songthaew as mentioned in the program

Breakfast meals only

Drinking water

Government taxes

Price Excludes:

Drinks

Alcohol

Visa/border fees

International flights

Personal expenses

Travel insurance

Lunch and dinner