Essential Highlights | Laos | Experience Travel Group

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A good option for your first visit to Laos, this two week holiday will give you a sense of what makes Laos so unique and special. The holiday begins in Thailand near the Laos border before taking you by slow boat past dramatic river gorges as you sail down The Mekong River. You’ll also experience the romance and magical atmosphere of Luang Prabang, the colonial relics of the sleepy capital Vientiane and the mysterious Plain Of Jars.

Highlights include:

Taking in the remarkable scenery of the Mekong River aboard the Luang Say Cruise
Exploring the romantic, beautifully preserved town of Luang Prabang with your expert local guide
An insider's take on the sleepy capital Vientiane
A variety of quality and interesting accommodation throughout

As with all of our suggested itineraries, we can tailor-make your holiday to suit your budget, style and expectations. Find out about our exclusive Journey Planner here.

DAY 1 DEPART THE UK

Depart the UK on your overnight flight to Chiang Rai*

*You could add a stop in Bangkok or Chiang Mai if preferred.

DAY 2 - 3 LANJIA LODGE

Your guide will meet you at Chiang Rai airport for the transfer to Lanjia Lodge, a responsibly run lodge in the hills near the Golden Triangle (where Laos, Myanmar and Thailand meet). Here you are surrounded by beautiful scenery, and you have the opportunity to relax or to experience the lifestyle of the local community. All while staying in comfortable accommodation.

DAY 4 THE LUANG SAY CRUISE

Today you’ll cross the border into Laos and board The Luang Say Cruise; a deluxe slow boat headed down the Mekong River for Luang Prabang. Relax on board as you pass some remarkable scenery and enjoy stops at little riverside villages. The boat moors overnight near Pakbeng, where you disembark to stay at the Luang Say Lodge.

DAY 5 KAMU LODGE

Rejoin the boat for a second day cruising through the bends of the Mekong River. As the boat meanders towards Luang Prabang, you’ll disembark and check in at the remote Kamu Lodge. Overnight in a safari-style tented bungalow at the Lodge, enjoying its beautiful natural surroundings.

DAY 6-9 LUANG PRABANG

Transfer aboard a private boat from Kamu Lodge to Luang Prabang. There is no better way to arrive into Luang Prabang than by slow boat; it somehow perfectly befits the laidback nature of this atmospheric town. Depending on your arrival time you might like to take lunch before transferring to your hotel.

During your stay in Luang Prabang, you’ll be able to spend time with your guide getting a feel for the magical town itself; the effect of Luang Prabang's ornate Buddhist temples and Indochinese architecture set against a jungle backdrop is spellbinding. A highlight will no doubt be the early morning visit to Kuang Sii Waterfalls where a special permit allows you to enjoy a gourmet breakfast before the crowds arrive.

There will be free time too, to absorb the scenery, explore the sleepy backstreets of the UNESCO town, take in the picturesque night markets and perhaps join in with the popular local street sport petanque!

DAY 10 & 11 The mysterious PLAIN OF JARS

Depart Luang Prabang by private vehicle and make the journey through breathtaking mountain scenery to Phonsovan and the mysterious Plain Of Jars. This journey is a beautiful experience in its own right, and the Plain of Jars is an extraordinary place. The hundreds of stone jars which cover the area remain the most puzzling of Asia's ancient sites.

During your stay, you’ll visit the area’s central market, and an NGO called the Mines in Action Group (MAG) to learn about the vital work they do in clearing landmines. You then drive out to the picturesque jar sites, taking guided tours along the ridges and visiting places of interest from the Indochina wars.

DAY 12 & 13 VIENTIANE

The morning is free before you board the 30-minute lunchtime flight to Vientiane. On arrival, you’ll meet your local guide and transfer to your hotel.

During your stay, your guide will show you the sleepy capital from an insider’s perspective. Explore vibrant Chinatown, discover ex-residences of colonial rulers and follow the Mekong River downstream to the historical temple of Wat Inpaeng. Head to the top of Patuxai monument (a replica of the Arc de Triomphe) at dusk for a panoramic view of the city and then take an evening tour of the food stalls where you can taste a traditional barbecue and experience typical Lao-style dinner culture.

DAY 14- FLIGHT HOME

Transfer by vehicle to Vientiane for your flight home. Alternatively, we can tailor your tour so that you continue to one of Laos' neighbouring countries.

As every holiday is unique to you, prices vary. To give you an indication, two-week holidays range from roughly £3,000 to £8,000 per adult, with an average price of £3,500. We also offer substantial child and seasonal discounts.

To start your journey, talk to one of our friendly consultants today.

Since every traveler is unique - Call our experts on 1-888-577-8452 or use the quote request form below for your personalised vacation itinerary.