8-Day Laos Discovery
Vientiane - Vang Vieng - Luang Prabang
Discover the cultural treasures, spectacular landscapes and authentic local traditions of Laos on this eight-day journey from Vientiane to Luang Prabang. Explore sacred temples and historic landmarks, travel through northern Laos by high-speed train, and embrace outdoor adventures with cave exploration and kayaking along the Nam Song River. Experience the timeless charm of Luang Prabang, from its royal heritage and vibrant night market to the cascading turquoise waters of Kuang Si Waterfalls. Along the way, savour traditional Lao cuisine, cycle through Ban Chan Village and discover local craftsmanship through a hands-on pottery workshop, creating meaningful connections with the country's people and traditions.
Highlight
- Vientiane's Sacred Temples & Iconic Landmarks
- COPE Visitor Centre & Laos' Contemporary History
- Scenic High-Speed Train Journeys Through Northern Laos
- Vang Vieng Cave Exploration & Nam Song River Kayaking
- Mount Phousi Sunset & Luang Prabang Night Market
- Traditional Lao Barbecue & Local Culinary Experience
- Luang Prabang Royal Heritage & Kuang Si Waterfalls
- Ban Chan Village Cycling & Traditional Pottery Workshop
Itinerary
Day 01: Welcome to Vientiane
On Arrival: Welcome to Laos! Meet your local guide and driver at Vientiane International Airport before transferring to your hotel for check-in.
Afternoon: Settle into your accommodation and enjoy time at leisure to unwind after your journey. Discover the capital's charming cafés, local restaurants and relaxed riverside atmosphere, or simply enjoy the hotel's facilities.
Evening: Enjoy a peaceful evening at your own pace.
Meal: Nil
Day 02: Vientiane's Cultural Treasures
Morning: Discover Vientiane's cultural heritage, beginning at Wat Sisaket, the capital's oldest surviving temple, renowned for its thousands of Buddha images. Continue to Hor Phakeo, a former royal temple housing religious art, before visiting the magnificent That Luang Stupa, Laos' most sacred national monument. Stop at Patuxay, the city's iconic triumphal arch. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
Afternoon: Visit the COPE Visitor Centre to gain insight into the lasting impact of unexploded ordnance in Laos and the rehabilitation services supporting affected communities. Return to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 03: Vientiane to Vang Vieng
Morning: After breakfast, meet your local English-speaking guide and transfer to the railway station for your high-speed train journey to Vang Vieng. Travel in a second-class seat through picturesque countryside, passing rural villages, lush fields and striking limestone mountain landscapes. Transfer to your hotel by Songtaew, a traditional Lao shared vehicle offering a glimpse into local transport and everyday life.
Afternoon: Enjoy time at leisure to explore Vang Vieng, relax at your hotel or admire the dramatic karst mountains surrounding this peaceful riverside town.
Meal: Breakfast
Day 04: Vang Vieng Adventure
Morning: Set out with your local English-speaking guide aboard a traditional Songtaew, travelling through Vang Vieng's scenic countryside towards the adventure site. Explore one of the region's fascinating limestone caves, where impressive rock formations reveal the natural beauty hidden within the karst mountains.
Join a guided kayaking experience along the picturesque Nam Song River. Paddle through gentle stretches of water, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, green rice fields and traditional villages. Suitable for beginners, this experience offers a wonderful perspective of Vang Vieng's landscapes.
Afternoon: Return to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.
Meal: Breakfast
Day 05: Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang
Morning: Travel by Songtaew to the railway station and board the high-speed train to Luang Prabang, the former royal capital and a UNESCO World Heritage city. Enjoy views of northern Laos' mountainous landscapes, green valleys and rural communities along the way.
Afternoon: Arrive in Luang Prabang and transfer to your hotel. Later, climb Mount Phousi for panoramic views over the historic town, Mekong River and surrounding mountains as the sun begins to set.
Evening: Explore the lively Luang Prabang Night Market, where colourful stalls showcase traditional textiles, handicrafts and local souvenirs. Complete the evening with a delicious Xin Dat, a traditional Lao-style barbecue dinner, accompanied by one cool drink.
Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 06: Luang Prabang's Heritage & Natural Wonders
Discover Luang Prabang's cultural treasures by Tuk Tuk. Visit the Royal Palace Museum, home to an impressive collection of royal artefacts, before exploring Wat Xieng Thong, one of the city's most revered temples, celebrated for its elegant architecture and intricate mosaics.
Continue to Ock Pop Tok, a social enterprise dedicated to preserving traditional Lao weaving and craftsmanship. Discover the artistry behind the country's beautiful handmade textiles.
Travel to the spectacular Kuang Si Waterfalls, where cascading turquoise pools are surrounded by lush tropical forest. Enjoy time to explore the natural surroundings before visiting the nearby Free the Bears Conservation Centre, which cares for rescued bears.
Meal: Breakfast
Day 07: Cycling to Ban Chan Village
Morning: Set out on a scenic 17 km round-trip cycling adventure through the countryside surrounding Luang Prabang. Cross the Mekong River towards Ban Chan, a traditional pottery village renowned for its centuries-old craftsmanship. Discover family-run workshops where artisans continue to produce handmade pots, bowls, bricks and tiles using traditional techniques. Join a hands-on pottery workshop and try shaping your own creation on a traditional wheel while learning about local firing methods.
Afternoon: Return to Luang Prabang and enjoy free time to explore the town, browse local boutiques or relax at a riverside café.
Meal: Breakfast
Day 08: Farewell, Luang Prabang
Enjoy your final morning in Luang Prabang at leisure, with time to soak up the town's peaceful atmosphere.
At the scheduled time, meet your guide and transfer by Tuk Tuk to Luang Prabang International Airport for your onward journey, bringing your memorable adventure through Laos to a close.
Meal: Breakfast
