Highlights of Northern Laos

Day 1 - Arrival in Vientiane

Arrival in the Lao capital of Vientiane, on the banks of the Mekong River, and check in to a centrally located hotel. Time to stretch your legs with an orientation walking tour before riverbank sundowners and a local-style welcome dinner at one of the town’s lively night food markets.

Overnight: Vientiane Transport: Walk,  Meals: D, 

Day 2 - Lao-China train ride and Mekong boat cruise

Departure by train (Lao’s recently constructed, first-ever rail line), through the spectacular central highlands to the ancient capital Luang Prabang. Mid-morning arrival and some time to relax before an afternoon boat trip up the Mekong to visit the mysterious Pak Ou Caves, with their thousands of Buddha statues left by pilgrims. Return to Luang Prabang for sunset and a chance to sample some of the region’s local specialities.

Overnight: Luang Prabang Transport: Train, Boat, Walk,  Meals: B, D, 

Day 3 - Luang Prabang - city walking tour

Nestled in the mountains, long isolated from the outside world; discover UNESCO-listed Luang Prabang’s fabulous temples, French period architecture and taste Lao delicacies (and the famous Lao beer!) in riverside cafes. A walking tour of the town includes the former king’s palace, now National Museum, Wat Xiengthong and Phu Si Temple. Afternoon at leisure to explore the picturesque lanes and famous hill-tribe handicraft market.

Overnight: Luang Prabang Transport: Walk,  Meals: B, 

Day 4 - Luang Prabang - into the surrounding countryside

Morning trip through the surrounding hills to visit the spectacular turquoise ponds, cascades and falls at Kuang Si as well as the nearby Free the Bears site which houses moon, (Asiatic black) and sun bears rescued from hunters, the illegal animal trade and private zoos. Return to Luang Prabang with a stop for a riverside lunch at the Ock Pop Tok community weaving project.

Overnight: Luang Prabang Transport: Minibus, Walk,  Meals: B, L, 

Day 5 - Central Highlands - Luang Prabang to Phonsavan

Early departure for a drive along mountain roads to Phonsavan in Xieng Khouang province – location of the famous and mysterious Plain of Jars. Stops on the way include Khmu and Hmong villages and a hidden cave temple that served as an army hospital during the Vietnam War.

Overnight: Phonsavan Transport: Minibus,  Meals: B, L, D, 

Day 6 - Plain of Jars - day tour

Tour of spectacular Jar Site 1 and return to Phonsavan Town for lunch and a visit to the well-laid out Xieng Khouang Museum to learn about the background to the famous jars, as well as the region’s more recent history when it played a key role during the Vietnam conflict. In the afternoon we travel to the picturesque Jar Site 2 and begin our 1-hour hike to impressive Site 3, consisting of over 150 jars and offering great views over the surrounding countryside.

Overnight: Phonsavan Transport: Plane, Walk,  Meals: B, 

Day 7 - Vientiane - tour of some of the City's sights

Short morning flight to Vientiane with an afternoon tour of some of the capital’s varied sites including Si Saket Temple with its 1,000 Buddha images and Vientiane’s most famous monument, That Luang Stupa. Less cheerful, but we feel important and highly informative, is a stop at the excellent COPE visitors centre, established to highlight the major issues locals face in the form of leftover bombs from the Vietnam War.

Overnight: Vientiane Transport: Minibus, Plane, Walk,  Meals: B, D, 

Day 8 - Vientiane and departure

Morning at leisure in Vientiane before departure.

Extra nights in Vientiane before or after your tour are available on request.

Note that airport transfers are included if you purchase the 'with flights' package. If you obtained your own flights, airport transfers can be arranged if necessary.

Overnight: Departure Transport: Walk,  Meals: B,