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View of Vang Vieng, Laos
14 Days Itineraries Laos

Mountains & Hill Tribes in Northern Laos

Most suited for
Couples, Families
Ideal time to visit
October- March

Exploring the dramatic mountains and dense jungles of Northern Laos, this holiday takes you from the Golden Triangle at the Thai/Laos/Myanmar border down to the sleepy, romantic UNESCO town of Luang Prabang.

Travel along rivers and roads, passing through majestic scenery, staying at a range of accommodations, including eco-lodges in the mountains. Northern Laos is known for some excellent “eco trekking,” and in this itinerary, there is an opportunity to trek to remote hill-tribe villages and learn about the local customs and traditions. The journey will bring you to Luang Prabang by boat, where there is time to take in the sights and absorb the magical atmosphere from a lovely boutique hotel base.

      

LAos Bungalow houses

Trip Highlights

Women at ock pop tok in Laos

Chance encounters with local villagers while trekking in the mountains

Take in the remarkable scenery as you journey down the Nam Ou River aboard your private boat

Luang Prabang Temple

Exploring the romantic, beautifully preserved town of Luang Prabang with your expert local guide

Mountains & Hill Tribes in Northern Laos

As with all our holidays, this itinerary is just a starting point. We will create a bespoke package which will be completely unique for you. 

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Day 1

Your adventure begins

Depart your home country on your flight to Chiang Mai, Thailand.

Days 2 - 3

The Golden Triangle

Your guide will meet you at Chiang Rai airport for the transfer to your accommodation, where you’ll spend two days. Relax surrounded by beautiful scenery in the hills where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet. Here you can enjoy a comfortable base that gives you opportunities to experience the lifestyle of the local community.

Day 4

Laos

Today you’ll be transferred to the Thai/Laos border, just a few miles down the road at Chiang Saen/Huay Say. Cross the river to Laos where your guide and driver will be waiting for you and begin the journey north towards the village of Luang Namtha. This area is one of the best places in Southeast Asia for hill-tribe trekking.

The route to Luang Namtha takes you through mountains and river valleys, and you’ll have a chance to stop on the way to visit hill tribe villages. Visit Kao Rao Cave with its impressive limestone formations before arriving in Luang Namtha mid-afternoon.

Days 5

Luang Namtha

Spend today doing some reasonably easy trekking in the jungle-clad hills (we can arrange more adventurous treks if you prefer). The walk will take you past viewpoints offering panoramic views of Luang Namtha town to fascinating ethnic minority hill-tribe villages where your guide will translate old folklore stories from the locals. Enjoy a specially prepared traditional picnic lunch in the heart of the jungle and late afternoon you’ll head back to town to explore the Luang Namtha market.

Days 6 - 7

Nam Kat

Today you’ll begin the guided journey south. Just outside of Luang Namtha, stop at the Lantern village of Namdeng Nua before heading south past rivers and jungle towards the small city of Oudomxay. You’ll arrive at your resort on the banks of the Nam Kat River early afternoon and the rest of the day is free to soak up the spectacular scenery and abundant nature all around you or to get stuck straight into some of the outdoor activities available.

Despite the decent accommodation available, this area sees few visitors, which makes for a very serene environment and the opportunity to experience day-to-day village life without feeling that you are just one of many tourists passing through.  There is some excellent trekking in the jungle-clad hills, or if you prefer to take it a bit easier, there are some lovely easy walks that could wind up with a picnic at a waterfall or a trip to the local hot springs.

Day 8

Nong Khiaw

Today your guide and driver will take you to Muang Khoua on the banks of the Nam Ou River. Here you’ll board a private boat for the first day of the river journey downstream to Luang Prabang. The first part of the journey takes around 2.5 hours towards the Nam Ou Dam, where you cross to another private boat for the second part of the journey towards Nong Khiaw. The scenery en route is remarkable so enjoy sitting back and just taking it all in. The boat also stops along the way for swimming and to visit riverside villages. On arrival in Nong Khiaw, transfer to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 9

Nong Khiaw

The beautiful area around Nong Khiaw is excellent to explore by bike or kayak. The hotel has bicycles available for hire so you could choose to head out with your guide to the picturesque local limestone caves. Don’t feel pressure to do anything much; however, this is a lovely spot to sit back with a book and make the most of laidback Laos.

Day 10

Nong Khiaw to Luang Prabang

Continue your journey downstream to Luang Prabang. After a morning cruising through more spectacular mountain scenery, the Nam Ou meets the Mekong River. The famous Pak Ou caves are close by, and you can visit them if you choose. Around one hour travelling along the Mekong and you’ll reach Luang Prabang – the river route is a lovely way to arrive at one of Asia’s most romantic and beautifully preserved cities.

Days 11 - 13

Luang Prabang

Depending on the time you arrive, you might like to enjoy lunch before transferring to your hotel.

During your stay in Luang Prabang, 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 14

Fly home

Depart Luang Prabang for your flight back home.

An Epic Adventure Across Southeast Asia

There were moments while I was out and about where I thought that everyone should experience this kind of mindful travel that Experience Travel organises, as it's not backpacking where you tick off the standard party hotspots, and it's not the typical cruise for tourists to visit the standard sightseeing destinations, but an experience where I really felt I got to know the countries, meet great people and do fun stuff that most people miss.
Sven
3 March 2025

Excellent850 Reviews

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What’s included:

With ETG, what’s included goes well beyond the basics. From the moment your trip begins to your final farewell, the essentials are already taken care of, leaving you free to immerse, explore and enjoy without the hassle of hidden extras.

Here’s what comes as standard in all of our holidays:

All flights (unless you’ve booked your own!)
Expert guides and drivers
All accommodation
Many meals and snacks
Immersive experiences throughout
All regional transfers
Tips
24/7 In-Country support
Personal travel consultant throughout

Pricing:

As every holiday is bespoke, prices vary depending on destination, flights, hotel choices, inclusions and travel dates. We aim to include as much as possible upfront, so you know exactly where you are. As an approximate guide:

Bespoke Holidays £4,500 - £8,500pp
Bespoke Luxury Holidays £8,500 - £14,500pp
Bespoke Family Holidays from £4,000 - £7,500pp

Meet Our South East Asia Experts

Ella is one of our Travel Team members for all things South East Asia. From travelling across Vietnam to getting under the skin of Thailand, she can’t wait to help you design your adventure of a lifetime.

“Northern Laos is a region where life moves to the rhythm of the rivers and mountains. Spending time here gives you a deeper understanding of hill-tribe traditions, remote village life and the sheer beauty of Laos’ untouched landscapes”

Ella
Regional Expert
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Explore Our Hotels & Villas

Wherever you go, and whatever you do, at the end of every day you can always be sure of a comfortable rest. Every location on our list of hotels is handpicked, and in its own way, shares the history, the hospitality, and the soul of the destination. Below are some examples of the different hotels we use.

Laos - Superior

Mandala Ou

Laos - Comfort

Nam Kat Yorla Pa Resort

Le Sen Swimming Pool

Laos - Superior

Le Sen

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Nong Khiaw, Laos

Mandala Ou

Mandala Ou in Nong Khiaw, Laos, offers riverside charm, traditional rooms and a relaxed base to explore the landscapes of Northern Laos.

 

Highlights

Highlights

River views,

Infinity pool,

Peaceful setting

Best for

Couples,

Families

Gallery

Mandala Ou Pool
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Muang La, Laos,

Nam Kat Yorla Pa Resort

Nam Kat Yorla Pa Resort in Laos blends comfort, nature and adventure with zip-lining, forest treks, and private pool villas in a remote setting.

Highlights

Highlights

Forest adventure,

Private villas,

Local cuisine

Best for

Couples,

Families

Gallery

See More
Le Sen Swimming Pool

Luang Prabang, Laos,

Le Sen

A stylish and well-located base near Luang Prabang, Le Sen offers modern comfort, free bikes, a pool and great value for couples, families and solo travellers.

Highlights

Highlights

Close to Luang Prabang

Stylish  rooms

Best for

Couples,

Families

Gallery

Le Sen Swimming Pool
Le Sen Entrance

The ETG Guarantee

We guarantee you an experience no one else has ever had. 

The travel magic you’ll remember won’t be found on a well-trodden – or over-Instagrammed – itinerary. It will be the surprises, discoveries and secrets that you’ll uncover along the way with us.

Do you ever feel like people aren’t listening to you?  

We get it. And we will – that’s a promise. Your holiday starts with with a proper, no-pressure call to understand what you want, what you don’t want, and what matters to you. From there, we create a completely unique adventure, inspired by our conversation together.

And because of our long-standing relationships with trusted partners across Asia, you’ll have access to experiences you can’t find on Google. The kind of special experiences that are literally impossible to find on your own.

Experiences in Laos and Vietnam

Crafting bespoke packages is the heart of what we do. Each holiday is specially designed to confound preconceptions and share magical, memorable, and truly exceptional experiences.

Vientiene

Laos

Vientiane Tuk Tuk Tour

Laos

The Nam Ou River Boat & Trek

ETG Laos - Luang Prabang - Petanque - 2019- 0002 - Reduced Size

Laos

Evening Game of Petanque

Laos

Luang Prabang Full Day Tour

kuang si waterfalls

Laos

Breakfast at Kuang Si Falls

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Vientiene

Vientiane, Laos

Vientiane Tuk Tuk Tour

Join your local guide for a tuk-tuk tour of Vientiane. Begin with a visit to a Mak Beng shop. A traditional temple offering, ‘mak beng’ is the name given to a colourful creation that combines banana leaves and marigold flowers. You’ll have an opportunity to learn how to make one of these offerings, as well as ‘pasaat peung’, which is made with palm leaves and yellow wax, before then visiting Wat Simaung. Built in the 16th century, this temple is one of the city’s most popular places of worship, offering a fascinating insight into Vientiane’s rich traditions of ancient animistic ritual and Theravada Buddhism. Your guide will explain the temple’s history and its importance to the local people before you can to present your own handmade offerings.

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Luang Prabang, Laos

The Nam Ou River Boat & Trek

The alluring town of Nong Khiaw, divided by the Nam Ou River, is one of the most scenic in Laos and like much of the country, it is best explored by boat and on foot. In the morning, you will board a boat, cruising down the river to the Khmu village of Ban Don Khoune. After a short exploration of the village, you’ll begin your trek, climbing uphill for about three hours, passing by a number of cascades. By lunchtime, you’ll reach the summit where you can enjoy what is one of the most impressive views in Laos. With a stunning backdrop, enjoy a delicious Lao style picnic lunch served on banana leaves before hiking back to Ban Don Khoune where your longtail boat will take you back to Nong Khiaw.

 

View Experience Page
ETG Laos - Luang Prabang - Petanque - 2019- 0002 - Reduced Size

Luang Prabang, Laos

Evening Game of Petanque

One of Laos’ most popular past times and sports, you’re likely to see many locals playing a friendly game of Petanque (Boules) as you wander the streets. Experience this evening activity for yourself as you battle it out on the green with locals. The team who rolls their balls closest to the stationary ‘jack’ will come out on top! Battle weary, you will end the night with a lovely local-style dinner before heading back to your hotel.

 

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Luang Prabang, Laos

Luang Prabang Full Day Tour

Visit some of Laos’s timeless monuments on a full day tour around the old city, now under UNESCO protection as a World Heritage Site. At about 8.30am head off with your guide to visit Wat Xieng Thong – often said to be Luang Prabang’s most beautiful. It is characterised by roofs sweeping low to the ground and the impressive “tree of life” mosaic. Next visit Vat Visoun, the site of an impressive stupa, That Makmo. Then walk to the nearby Vat Aham, which is one of the city’s major tutelary shrines.

After lunch at a local restaurant visit Luang Prabang’s National Museum, formerly the Royal Palace (not open on Tuesdays). Displayed inside is a collection of personal artifacts of the former Laotian Royal Family. Continue on to visit nearby Wat Mai – the five-tiered roof epitomises the graceful Luang Prabang architectural style. There is also time to take a stroll through the Hmong Market where locals and ethnic minorities from the surrounding villages sell an overwhelming array of handicrafts. Phou Sii hill stands right in the centre of this small city. Climb its 350 steps to enjoy commanding views for many miles in each direction. Wat Phu Sii sits atop the mountain, alongside the skeletons of Indochina war anti-aircraft guns! Sunset can be enjoyed with a cold drink at one of the cafes located along the Mekong River.

 

Gallery

wat xieng thong
View Experience Page
kuang si waterfalls

Luang Prabang, Laos

Breakfast at Kuang Si Falls

After a stroll through the morning markets, you’ll head out to the remarkable Kuang Si falls to enjoy a gourmet picnic breakfast in a peaceful and tranquil setting before most other tourists visit the area. Journey back to Luang Prabang on a private cruise down the Mekong, with an opportunity to visit the famous pottery village of Ban Ou.

Important FAQs about Laos

Laos is a country of gentle rhythms, rich traditions, and extraordinary natural beauty. Travelling with ETG means uncovering the quiet charms of this land in a thoughtful and immersive way. From drifting along the Mekong at sunset to exploring golden temples in Luang Prabang or cycling through rural villages, we design holidays that let you experience Laos at its own pace. Our local guides and carefully curated experiences ensure every moment feels authentic, personal, and rewarding, with 24/7 support to keep everything seamless and stress-free.

The best time to visit Laos is during the cool, dry season from November to March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring cities, temples, and river life. April and May bring hotter temperatures, while the green season from June to October offers lush landscapes, quieter travel, and excellent river cruises thanks to higher water levels. For those looking to avoid crowds, the shoulder months of October and early November are particularly appealing.

 

Every ETG holiday to Laos is designed to feel seamless, immersive and stress free. We’ll arrange international flights (if you’d like us to), your drivers and guides, and stays in characterful hotels we know and trust.

You’ll experience Laos in a way that’s completely bespoke to you – from quiet moments to big adventures – all planned by our Laos specialists. And while you’re away, our local team is on hand 24/7, so you’ll always feel well looked after.

The Curious Traveller’s Guide to Laos

 

Discover a peaceful culture, beautiful scenery and exciting adventure, all in one handy guide.

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Curious Guide to Laos