Tailor Made Small Group Journeys
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12 DAYS LEISURELY ADVENTURE IN LAOS
The perfect snapshot of a captivating country, delving into Laos laid back cities, fascinating heritage and compelling landscapes on this 12 days tour....
12
days
TOUR SUMMARY:
Duration: 12 days
Suggested Time: 08:30-16:30 depending on daily itinerary
Location: Vientiane - Luang Prabang - Nong Khiaw - Ban Sop Jam - Luang Prabang - Vang Vieng - Nam Ngam - Vientiane
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The perfect snapshot of a captivating country, delving into Laos laid back cities, fascinating heritage and compelling landscapes on this 12 days tour....
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DETAILED ITINERARY:
Day 1: Vientiane – City Tour
Meeting you at your chosen hotel by your private guide. The first visit of the morning will be to the morning market where you will experience first hand the local way of life followed by a visit to Patuxay (the Victory Gate Monument) which was given by the French to Lao Government when we had the first independence in 1946 AD. Resembling the famous Arc De Triumph in Paris this is now the landmark of Vientiane and continue to visit That Luang stupa is a symbol of Laos.
Next, stop by the excellent COPE Exhibition Centre, highlighting a much overlooked aspect of Laos and a major problem many of the local people face on a day to day basis in the form of unexploded ordnance as a result of heavy bombing campaigns during the Vietnam War. Then we will drive out of the city to Buddha Park was built in 1958 AD by Luang Pu Bounleua Sulilat a monk who studied both Hinduism and Buddhism religions. The remainder of the day is free for you to explore Vientiane at leisure.
PRIVATE TOUR AVAILABLE DAILY
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:
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Private tour with local guide
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Views of the stunning scenery of Laos
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Experience local way of life along the banks of the Mekong River
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Witness the intriguing sight of 4,000 Buddha images at Pak-Ou Cave
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Take part in the morning Alms Giving ritual
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Overnight stay at Elephant Sanctuary
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Kayaking on the river in Vang Vieng
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Leisure time in Nam Ngum lake
Day 2: Vientiane – Luang Prabang - City Tour
Take a short flight from Vientiane to Luang Prabang, the former Capital City of Laos. Upin arrival we will begin your tour by private air conditioned vehicle driving to the viewpoint of the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan River. Walking along the peninsular you will have the opportunity to take photographs of this beautiful landscape.
From here walk through to visit Wat Xieng Thong temple which is one of the most beautiful in Laos. Upon leaving Wat Xieng Thong we will take a walk through the streets of Luang Prabang observing the historical architecture of French colonial buildings and local life before paying a visit to the National Museum, the Former Royal palace which was built 1904-1909
by the French Architect and was gift from the French to our last king of Laos. Next is a visit to Vat Visoun temple commonly known as That Mak Mo (the water melon stupa) built in 1520 AD it is now a Buddhist temple Museum followed by a stop at Vat Aham and Vat Mai.
From here we visit the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre (TAEC) which is a museum on the arts and culture of Laos' diverse ethnic groups.
To end the day upon reaching the main street of Luang Prabang we will climb up to the top of Mt. Phousi for a 360 degree view of the city.
Check in to your chosen hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure. This evening enjoy the Night Market at leisure.
Day 3: Luang Prabang Alms Giving - Pak Ou Cave & Kuang Si Waterfall
Luang Prabang is the perfect place to see one of the most sacred Lao traditions, the Buddhist Alms Giving Ceremony. Rise early to witness the procession of monks. You will have the opportunity to take part in this tradition by offering sticky rice to the monks as they collect their one meal of the day. After returning to your hotel for breakfast you will be transferred by private vehicle to the boat pier in Luang Prabang where your boat departs. Cruising by Private boat on the Mekong River observe the picturesque limestone formations and local way of life along the river.
Your boat continues along the Mekong river to explore the sanctuaries of Pak Ou and witness the intriguing sight of over 4,000 Buddha images. Enjoy lunch at a floating restaurant (not included)
From here your private vehicle will meet you to transfer you to Kuang Si Waterfall Upon arrival we will take a leisurely hike through the National Park towards Kuang Si Waterfall. On the way pass by the Asian Bear Rescue Centre. Enjoy feeling the mist of the cool, turquoise water of the different waterfalls. Hike to the top of the main waterfall from where you can enjoy the panoramic views.
Return to the pools at the bottom of the falls where you can enjoy a refreshing swim should you wish.
On your return to Luang Prabang we will make a stop at a local Hmong Village which will give you the opportunity to experience the local way of life of this village and the chance to meet the local people.
The day ends upon your return to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure.
Day 4: Luang Prabang - Elephant Sanctuary
Today visit the Elephant Sanctuary located a short drive from Luang Prabang. After a sort briefing about the elephants get up close and personal with the elephants, including one baby elephant. During today you will get the opportunity to feed the elephants, explore the elephant village, take part in mahout training and ride the elephant bareback.
Enjoy also a leisurely boat trip to Tad Sae Waterfall by longtail boat. Dip your feet in or go for a leisurely swim in the clear, cool ponds.
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After lunch (included) you will ride the elephant bareback into the jungle hideaway where the elephants retire for the evening.
In the evening stay at the sanctuary in the Elephant Lodge. Enjoy dinner and the stunning views of the Nam Khan River.
Day 5: Luang Prabang - Elephant Sanctuary - Ban Xang Khong
This morning awaken to views of the tranquil and beautiful Lao jungle. Retrieve your elephant for their jungle hideaway and take them down to the Nam Khan river for an exhilarating bathing experience. Enjoy breakfast at the elephant camp before departing for the return journey to Luang Prabang on route making a stop at Ban Xang Khong Village - Handicraft village - where you will have the opportunity to see locals making local handicrafts by weaving, wood carving and paper making. This is also an opportunity to purchase these locally made products as souvenirs.
The day ends upon your return to Luang Prabang The remainder of the day is at leisure.
Day 6: Luang Prabang – Nong Khiaw
Departing Luang Prabang after breakfast we will travel by private mini van to Nong khiaw on the way we will make our stop at the local village to experience local life. Upon arrival in Nong Khiaw you have the opportunity to take a leisurely hike (optional, approximately 1 hour to the top) up to Nong Khiaw / Ban Sop Houn viewpoint which is one of the best places to view the village and surroundings.
The rest of the day is at leisure for you to explore around the town
Day 7: Nong Khiaw - Ban Sop Jam Homestay
Before departing Nong Khiaw take a leisurely drive by private mini van out of town to visit Patok Cave which is where the locals lived during the US bombing of Laos, along the way visiting local hill tribe villages. A private boat will later transfer you upstream on the Ou river from Nong Khiaw where you will observe the spectacular scenery. We will make a stop at Muang Ngoi to experience local way of life in this sleepy village before continuing on to Ban Sop Jam which is traditional village located alongside the Nam Ou River. Here you can experience local way of life as well as seeing local weaving techniques, there is also the opportunity to purchase souvenirs. You will then enjoy the evening in a local homestay where you can take part in a traditional Baci Ceremony and dinner will also be included.
Day 8: Ban Sop Jam - Nong Khiaw - Luang Prabang
A leisurely journey back to Luang Prabang. The first part of the journey being by private boat heading back towards Nong Khiaw where you will be met at the mid way point where the remainder of the journey is by private mini van. The transfer is also another opportunity to enjoy the stunning scenery and observe local life along the way.
On route back to Luang Prabang make a stop at Ban Nanyang Tai Lue Handicraft Village. Here you can see the traditional houses of the Tai Lue Hilltribe who originated from China 400 years ago and still live in their traditional way of life.
The day ending on your return to your chosen hotel in Luang Prabang.
Day 9: Luang Prabang - Vang Vieng
Today after breakfast your guide and driver will transfer you along picturesque winding roads to Vang Vieng. There are stunning vistas of towering limestone karst hills around every turn. Enjoy lunch along the way at a local restaurant (not included).
Continue on to Vang Vieng on route stopping at Ban Houeimo a traditional fish market village.
Upon arrival at Vang Vieng visit Tham Chang Cave which was used as a war shelter when the Chinese invaded in 1887 and then visit the Blue Lagoon, a beautiful pool with crystal clear water.
The remainder of the day is free for you to relax on the scenic banks of the Song River or explore the lovely town.
Day 10: Vang Vieng - Kayaking
We will transfer around 10km North to the ethnic Khmu village of Viengsamay where after an introduction to the basics of kayaking we shall set off down the beautiful Nam Song river. After we continue traveling downstream to Tham None (Sleeping cave). Which is one of the biggest caves in Vang Vieng and served as a rescue shelter for the villagers during the Second Indochina War. Today it is home to a family of bats and the ‘Magic Stone’ of Vang Vieng. The final leg of the journey is a gentle paddle which will return us to Vang Vieng.
Day 11: Vang Vieng - Nam Ngum
Located mid point between Vang Vieng and Vientiane Nam Ngum is a hydroelectric dam on the Nam Ngum river. It’s an ideal location to relax and unwind at leisure
Day 12: Nam Ngu - Vientiane
After a leisurely breakfast depart by private mini van to return to Vientiane. On the way stopping at the Ban Keun Salt Extraction Factory and witness the traditional method of salt extraction still in practice today.
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Your tour ends upon check in at your chosen hotel.
NOTE:
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This tour program has been carefully designed and represents experiences we recommend. However, should you wish to amend any element of the program to suit your own interests please let us know so we can create a unique trip just for you.
PRIVATE TOUR RATE: Prices are quoted in US Dollars | Per Person
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Single supplement applies
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Our prices represent ground service only, however, if you prefer a package to include accommodation this can be arranged accordingly.
Tour Includes:
Tour Excludes:
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Private English Speaking Local Guide
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Tours and transfers as mentioned by air conditioned vehicle
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Sightseeing entrance fees and permits during guided time
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Private boat fees
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Elephant Sanctuary including overnight
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Homestay in Ban Sop Jam
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Kayaking in Vang Vieng
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International and domestic flights
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VISA and any VISA related fee - all non ASEAN residents must apply for valid visa
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Travel Insurance (compulsary)
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Hotel Accommodation (recommendations can be provided)
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Services and meals if not mentioned in the itinerary
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All drinks, including water, soft drinks and alcohol
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Laundry, telephone calls and any expenditure of a personal nature
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Tips and gratuities