Escape To Laos 9 Days 8 Nights

Today, start your exploration of Laos with a scenic drive from Vientiane to Vang Vieng. Along the way, you’ll pass lush rice paddies, rolling hills, and small villages that showcase the beautiful rural landscapes of Laos. The first stop is Don Makai Market, where you can sample exotic Laotian delicacies like fried insects and traditional snacks—a unique experience for those looking to dive into local flavours. Continue to Nam Ngum Lake, a stunning reservoir surrounded by mountains, where you can enjoy lunch at a local restaurant with beautiful lake views. After lunch, stop at Tha Heua, a small fishing village renowned for its dried fish. This village is a perfect snapshot of everyday life by the lake and is a great place to interact with local people. Upon arrival in Vang Vieng, visit Tham Jang Cave, where you can admire panoramic views of the Nam Song River and the surrounding karst landscape. The rest of the evening is free for you to explore Vang Vieng or relax at your hotel. Overnight in Vang Vieng.

After breakfast, set out for an adventurous day of kayaking on the Nam Song River. A short transfer will bring you to Vieng Samay, a Khmu village where your kayaking journey begins. A guide will provide an introduction to kayaking and tips for navigating the river, so even beginners can enjoy the experience. The Nam Song River is lined with stunning limestone cliffs and lush green foliage, creating a picture-perfect backdrop for a day on the water. Paddle through gentle rapids to reach Tham Nam Thaem Cave, where the river flows through the mountain, offering a surreal and secluded atmosphere. After a short trek to a scenic viewpoint overlooking the Nam Kouang Valley, you’ll stop for a traditional Laotian picnic by the riverside. After lunch, continue downstream, stopping at an organic farm where you can sample locally made mulberry tea and fruit wines. The final stop is Tham Non Cave, one of the largest caves in the area, which served as a shelter for locals during the Second Indochina War. End the day with a leisurely paddle back to Vang Vieng. Overnight in Vang Vieng

This morning, enjoy a hearty breakfast before transferring to the Vang Vieng railway station for a high-speed train journey to Luang Prabang. Arriving in Luang Prabang, your guide will welcome you at the station and transfer you to your hotel. Overnight in Luang Prabang.

After breakfast, set off by road to Nong Khiaw, a tranquil village on the banks of the Nam Ou River. The 3-4 hour drive winds through picturesque mountain landscapes, passing rural villages and offering glimpses of Laotian countryside life. Upon arrival, check into your lodge and relax before an afternoon visit to Tham Pha Thok Caves. These caves played a significant role in local history, providing shelter to villagers during the Second Indochina War. If you’d like, you can rent a bicycle to explore the area or simply enjoy a peaceful evening by the river. Overnight in Nong Khiaw.

Today, embark on a full-day soft trekking adventure in the area around Muang Ngoi. Start with a private boat ride up the Nam Ou River, where you’ll witness remote villages and lush landscapes along the banks. Meet a local guide in Muang Ngoi, who will take you on a gentle trek through rice paddies, a Khmu ethnic village, and a Thai Daeng village. This walk offers a wonderful opportunity to interact with locals and learn about traditional farming techniques and lifestyle. After a riverside picnic lunch, head back through forests and fields to the riverbank, where you can take a refreshing swim before returning to Nong Khiaw by boat. Overnight in Nong Khiaw.

After breakfast, set out on a scenic drive back to Luang Prabang, with a stop to explore the renowned Pak Ou Caves. These caves, nestled in limestone cliffs along the Mekong River, are filled with thousands of Buddha statues in various poses, a revered site for both locals and visitors. Arrive in Luang Prabang around midday, giving you the afternoon free to explore the city or simply relax. Overnight in Luang Prabang.