Laos to Thailand via The Mekong

Day 1  depart the UK

Depart the UK on your overnight flight to Laos. 

DAYS 2-4 LUANG PRABANG

Mysterious, charming, and deeply evocative of a bygone age, Luang Prabang is a charming place. You’ll get to experience the allure first hand with your guide, either walking or using bicycles to explore the city. 

At dawn, hundreds of saffron-robed monks move silently through the streets to collect alms. Your guide will take you to watch and explain the background behind this ritual, which is still very much part of everyday life in Laos.

You will journey out of Luang Prabang to visit Kuang Sii Waterfalls - through scenic Laotian countryside. There is time to explore and, if water levels permit, to enjoy a refreshing dip in the falls. These beautiful falls cascade over many tiers and down several hundred feet into a series of turquoise pools. The water here has a bright blue-green tint due to the high mineral content.

DAY 5 - LUANG PRABANG TO KAMU LODGE

After breakfast at your hotel, you'll travel upstream by boat to Kamu Lodge, a sustainable village on the banks of the Mekong. You may choose to relax or participate in some activities such as cycling or exploring the traditional ways of living. 

DAY 6 - upstream river voyage

At around 11 am you will board your cruise boat to travel up the Mekong River to Pakbeng. En route, there will be stops to explore local villages. It's a brilliant way to travel and get a feel for the beautiful scenery and laid back pace of Laos.

DAY 7 - upstream river voyage 

After an early walk to Pakbeng market where people from the surrounding village exchange goods, board the boat for the last leg of the cruise at around 8 am. Stop en route to observe rural life along the Mekong. Lunch on-board, before continuing to the border. Cross the river to Thailand and meet your Thai guide for the transfer to Chiang Rai. 

DAY 8 THE GOLDEN TRIANGLE

Explore Chiang Rai with your guide or choose in advance from a range of outdoor adventures such as trekking or cycling.

If you are staying at The Anantara, there is a chance to meet rescued and retired working elephants who are cared for at the resort's elephant camp. 

DAYs 9 - 11 CHIANG MAI

Your driver will transfer you overland to Chiang Mai through beautiful scenery, visiting Akha and Yao hill tribe villages along the way. 

Chiang Mai is a small city sitting in a beautiful valley, surrounded by farm orchards and forested mountains. During your time here you'll explore bustling markets, handicraft stalls, and mountain top temples, there is also a chance to meet elephants and to enjoy the local street food, maybe even take a cooking class.

DAYS 12 - 16 sleepy SOUTHERN BEACHES

Following a short flight from Chiang Mai to Phuket, you’ll be transferred to your beach hotel near Khao Lak for a five-night stay. Here your time is free to relax and enjoy the surroundings whist reflecting on your holiday adventure. 

Day 17 fly home

Depart Thailand for your flight back to the UK.

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