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Laos Encompassed

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Laos Encompassed
  • Holidays in Laos
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    • Luang Prabang
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Experience Travel Group

Laos Encompassed

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This 3-week, in-depth holiday is the ultimate tour of Laos, taking in the remarkable contrasts of each of its extraordinary regions. From the dramatic mountains and dense jungles of the north down to the sleepy 4000 islands of the Mekong in the south, via the subterranean caves of the unexplored centre and the romantic UNESCO town of Luang Prabang. Travel along rivers and roads passing through majestic scenery, stopping to explore remote villages or French colonial towns, taste traditional food, absorb the magical atmosphere and relax into the laidback way of life.

Highlights include:

  • Chance encounters with local villagers in the mountains, far away from the crowds
  • Taking in the remarkable scenery as you journey down the Nam Ou river aboard your private boat
  • Exploring the romantic, beautifully preserved town of Luang Prabang with your expert local guide
  • Traversing subterranean rivers through jungle-clad caves in the unexplored central regions
  • Discovering faded villas and relics of the French Colonial past
  • Visiting waterfalls, searching for dolphins and taking time to relax in the 4000 islands 

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 in Thailand

Day 2 & 3 Thai/Laos border

Relax after your flight with two nights immersed in nature near Chiang Rai at the Thai/Laos border. Stay at a delightful, sustainable property in the hills, offering privacy and opportunities for adventure and exploration. You can take part in several activities, such as trekking, bird watching, cooking classes, horse-riding and yoga.

Day 4 Down The Mekong

Today you’ll be driven to the border crossing at Chiang Khong, where you will take a short boat ride across the river to Laos. Once you’ve completed immigration formalities you'll depart on your own private boat cruise down the Mekong towards Pakbeng. The journey gives you the opportunity to enjoy the passing scenery and observe rural life along the Mekong. Stop off en route to visit riverside villages and arrive in Pakbeng before sunset for an overnight stay at a simple hillside lodge overlooking the river. 

Day 5 & 6 Northern Laos

Today you’ll travel by car towards Oudomxay with scenic stops along the way, arrive in time for lunch and check-in at your off-the-beaten-track resort set amongst a protected forest. Surrounded by mountains and jungle, this is a wonderful base for exploring the area. 

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.  For adventurous types there is some great trekking in the jungle-clad hills and, for those who prefer to take it a bit easier, there are some nice easy walks that could wind up with a picnic at a waterfall or a trip to the local hot springs.

Day 7 Journey down the Nam Ou River 

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 initial part of the journey takes around 2.5 hours towards the Nam Ou Dam where you’ll 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 stops along the way for swimming and visiting riverside villages. On arrival in Nong Khiaw, you’ll transfer to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 8 Limestone & Jungle 

The beautiful area around NongKhiaw is great 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. Another option is the 100 Waterfalls Trek and boat trip which takes 3 hours uphill but rewards you with one of the most impressive views in Laos. 

However, there is no pressure to do anything much if you prefer to relax; this is a lovely spot to sit back with a book and make the most of laidback Laos.

Day 9-11 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 situated near the confluence and you can visit them if you choose. Around one hour travelling on the Mekong and you’ll reach Luang Prabang - the river route is a lovely way to arrive into one of Asia's most romantic and beautifully preserved cities.

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

During your stay in Luang Prabang, you’ll 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 will allow you to enjoy a gourmet breakfast there before the crowds arrive.

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

Day 12 & 13 The Sleepy Capital Vientiane 

Today you will travel by train to the capital Vientiane.

You can choose to head out to start exploring on your first day or just settle into your hotel and relax.

During your time in Vientiane, you’ll get to experience the sleepy capital from an insider’s perspective. With your private local guide, you’ll 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 The Backroads to Hin Boun 

Today you will drive along the backroads of Laos towards Hin Boun. Stop along the way for lunch and to see the 15th-century stupa of Prabat Phonsan and the interesting Ban Ton Na Mae Markets. Arrive in Hin Boun in the evening and check in to your hotel.

Day 15 Kong Lor Caves 

After breakfast, take a private cruise to the stunning Kor Long Caves. With over 7km of subterranean rivers passing through jungle-clad caves, this is a wonderful must-see destination. There is a spectacular cavern that is over 100 metres high and is full of beautiful stalagmites. 

Day 16  Onwards to Thakek 

Today you’ll continue your guided journey south making the first stop at the Phou Pha Marn viewpoint where you can enjoy some impressive vistas of the ancient Karstic forests. Daredevils can opt to climb the Via Ferrata and cross the exhilarating suspended bridges You’ll reach Thakek early afternoon in time to explore this riverside town and enjoy the sunset over the Mekong. Thakek was once a French trading post and as such the streets feature an evocative combination of faded colonial villas and Chinese shophouses. 

Day 17 Transfer to the Boloven Plateau 

Today is a full day’s road journey through the countryside. You’ll reach the small city of Savannakhet around lunchtime where you can stop for noodle soup. Continue into the Bolaven Plateau, known for its cooler temperature being located high above the Mekong Valley. At the village of Ban Beng, you’ll be met by a Coffee expert and you’ll switch to a vintage jeep, an ideal vehicle for the next bit of terrain which is on a route rarely visited by foreigners. By early evening, you'll arrive at the coffee plantation in time for a delicious home-cooked meal.

Day 18 Bolaven Plateau Jeep Tour 

Wake up early if you’d like to see how pretty the sunrise is above the surrounding fields. Your host will roast some fresh coffee while explaining the coffee growing process f r om seed to cup. After breakfast, begin your 1-2 hour trek. Along the way, you’ll pass farms of lettuce, peppers, ginger, cucumber, cabbage and more. Later you’ll take a jeep to Tad Moan waterfall where there is time to relax and go for a swim. In the afternoon, head out by jeep and visit some of the interesting villages and trek up to a mountain peak where you will be rewarded with beautiful views of the Plateau. There is even time to visit a cave used as a shelter by villagers during wartime. 

Day 19 - 21 The 4000 Islands 

Leave the Boloven Plateau and head onwards to Pakse and then Don Daeng in the 4000 islands. Your accommodation for the next three nights is at La Folie Lodge, where you can stay in one of their delightful rooms or a beautiful private villa overlooking the Mekong River.

There will be plenty of time to rest and enjoy the peaceful island, you could also opt to  At take a cycle along rice fields. 

On your last day, cross by boat to the mainland for breakfast at Wat Phou Temple Complex. This is the oldest Khmer temple in Laos with outstanding architecture. Stairs lead to the main sanctuary located on a terrace where you will be rewarded with stunning views over the surrounding land and Mekong River. Enjoy a Picnic breakfast while enjoying the captivating landscape.

Day 22 Fly Home

Transfer to nearby Pakse to board your flight back to the UK. This flight is usually via Thailand where you can extend the adventure should you wish. 

As every holiday is unique to you, prices vary. To give you an indication, our holidays typically cost between £4,000 and £6,000 per adult depending on trip length and time of year as well as the hotels and flights involved. We offer child and seasonal discounts. You can read our ultimate guide to holiday costs in Asia for more in-depth information.

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 to create your personalised vacation itinerary.

Inclusions

Your bespoke proposal with Experience Travel Group will include:

  • International Flights (we can omit if you prefer)
  • Accommodation as described
  • Privately guided tours and transfers
  • Tips for guides and drivers
  • Original Experience Travel Group "signature" experiences 
  • Full financial protection (ABTA and ATOL bonding.) 
  • 24-hour in-country backup while away
  • Your dedicated travel expert in the UK 

You can book this holiday tour on its own, with flights or it can be tailored for you.

Here are the hotels and villas within this holiday as standard...

La Folie Lodge

La Folie Lodge, Pakse

La Folie Lodge on the banks of Dong Daeng island. Remote island accommodation on the Mekong, that’s close to perfect.

Lao Poet Hotel

Lao Poet Hotel, Vientiane

Unusual boutique hotel in a great location in the centre of Vientiane

Le Sen

Le Sen, Luang Prabang

Le Sen is a stylish and well designed small hotel on the edge of Luang Prabang.

Nam Kat Yorla Pa Resort

Nam Kat Yorla Pa Resort, Muang La

Adventure and relaxation along the Nam Kat River surrounded by a lush national park.

Nong Khiaw Riverside

Nong Khiaw Riverside, Nong Khiaw

Simple but quality lodge on the beautiful Nam Ou River in the rustic riverside town of Nong Khiaw.

Phu-Chaisai

Phu-Chaisai, Chiang Rai

A colourful, comfortable, occasionally eccentric hilltop hideaway resort. Great panoramic views of the northern mountains.

Spring River Resort

Spring River Resort, Kong Lor Caves

Traditional-style Laotian bungalows set along the banks of the Hinboun River.

You can book this holiday tour on its own, with flights or it can be tailored for you.

Here are the experiences & activities within this holiday as standard...

A Day in the 4,000 Islands

A Day in the 4,000 Islands, 4000 Islands

Explore the 4,000 Islands of the Mekong River, travelling by boat, bike and on foot.

Bolaven Plateau by Jeep

Bolaven Plateau by Jeep, Bolaven Plateau

Explore the wondrous Bolaven Plateau in a vintage Jeep, stopping at a minority village & coffee plantation.

Breakfast at Kuang Sii Waterfalls

Breakfast at Kuang Sii Waterfalls, Luang Prabang

Beat the crowds with an early morning visit to the stunning Kuang Si Waterfalls.

Exploring Kong Lor Cave

Exploring Kong Lor Cave, Kong Lor Caves

Cruise through the dramatic Kong Lor cave, one of Southeast Asia’s geological wonders.

Exploring Muang La's Countryside

Exploring Muang La's Countryside, Muang La

Experience real life and tradition as you explore the serene countryside of the region.

Nam Ou Boat Charter

Nam Ou Boat Charter, Nong Khiaw

Hire a private boat to cruise the stunning Nam Ou River in Northern Laos

Traditions & Rivers of Champasak

Traditions & Rivers of Champasak, Champasak

Explore the Champasak, its surrounding villages and adjacent Don Daeng island in the middle of the Mekong.

Trek & Cycle

Trek & Cycle, Nong Khiaw

Travel by boat with your local guide to begin a scenic trek through the countryside, passing villages, caves & paddy fields.

Vientiane Tuk Tuk Tour

Vientiane Tuk Tuk Tour, Vientiane

Learn to make your own Mak Beng temple offering before presenting it at the Wat Simaung temple with your local guide.

Map showing Hotels & Experiences associated with 'Laos Encompassed'


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020 7924 7133 Get in touch

Call
  • Destinations
    • South Asia
      • Sri Lanka
      • The Maldives
      • India
      • Bhutan
    • South East Asia
      • Thailand
      • Vietnam
      • Cambodia
      • Laos
      • Myanmar
      • Indonesia
      • Borneo
    • Middle East
      • Oman
  • Holidays in Laos
    • Classic Holidays
    • Family Holidays
    • In Depth Holidays
    • Multi Country Holidays
  • Guide to Laos
    • Laos Guide
    • Weather & When to go
    • Hotel inspiration
    • Experiences inspiration
    • Laos Travel Blog
  • Places in Laos
    • Overview
    • Luang Prabang
    • Pakse & Southern Laos
    • Northern Laos
    • Plain of Jars
    • Vientiane
  • About us
    • Why choose ETG?
    • Our Story
    • Meet the Team
    • Reviews
    • In the Press
    • Our Offices
    • Our Brochure
    • Travel Blog
    • Newsletter Signup
  • How it works
    • Get in touch
    • Booking with confidence
    • How much does it cost?
    • Financial protection
    • What happens if something goes wrong on my holiday?
    • Working with in-country partners
    • My Booking
    • Come and see us
  • Immersive Holidays
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    • Ideas & Inspiration
    • Holidays by month
    • Family Holidays by Month
    • Download Free Country Guides
  • Sustainability
    • Travel Better
    • Our Counter-Carbon Pledge
    • One bottle at a time
    • Building a Sustainable Future
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  • Come and see us
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