Day 1: Vientiane – Half-Day City Tour
Begin your journey in Vientiane with a fascinating half-day city tour. Your first stop is Wat Sisaket, the city’s oldest temple, renowned for its thousands of miniature Buddha statues. Next, explore the former royal temple Wat Prakeo, now a museum showcasing exquisite Lao arts and antiques.
Continue to Wat Simuang, a lively temple that attracts many local pilgrims. A drive along Lanexang Avenue brings you to the majestic Patuxai Monument, often compared to Paris’ Arc de Triomphe. A climb to the top rewards you with sweeping views of the city.
The tour continues to the golden stupa of That Luang, the most sacred religious site in Laos. Your final stop is the COPE Exhibition Centre, which highlights the ongoing issue of unexploded ordnance, a legacy of past conflicts, and the resilience of the Lao people. Return to your hotel for a leisurely afternoon.
Overnight: Vientiane Meals: None
Day 2: Vientiane – Hin Boun
After breakfast, travel south along Route 13 to the central province of Khammouane. Along the way, stop at Prabaht Ponsan, a 15th-century stupa that is said to contain the footprint of the Buddha. Continue to the Ban Thongnamee Hmong Market, where vibrant local produce and handicrafts offer a glimpse into rural Lao life.
As you move into the mountains, consider an optional stop at Phou Pha Marn Rock Viewpoint, offering panoramic views and a café for refreshments. For the adventurous, the spider net bridge provides a thrilling experience. Arrive in the Hin Boun area by late afternoon and settle into your riverside lodge.
Overnight: Hin Boun Meals: Breakfast
Day 3: Hin Boun – Kong Lor Cave Exploration
Start early with a hearty breakfast before heading to Kong Lor village. Board a small local boat for a journey into the legendary Kong Lor Cave, stretching over 7 kilometers with a cavern towering more than 100 meters high. Explore the impressive stalagmite gallery on foot.
On the far side, take a short walk past tobacco-drying huts to the remote village of Ban PonNgam, where a picnic lunch awaits. In the early afternoon, return through the cave by boat and head back to your resort for a leisurely afternoon.
Overnight: Hin Boun Meals: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch
Day 4: Hin Boun – Muang Khoun – Phonsavan
Depart early for a scenic drive through Laos’ countryside. Your first stop is Ban Thabak, known as the “bomb boat village” because fuel tanks from the Vietnam War were repurposed as boats. Enjoy the rolling landscapes and the beauty of the Nam Mouan River before stopping at Ban Thasi for lunch.
In the afternoon, climb into the mountains and visit minority villages, including a Tai Lu weaving village and a Hmong village, to experience traditional crafts and lifestyles. Late in the afternoon, arrive at Muang Khoun, the ancient provincial capital. Explore the ruins of Lanna-style pagodas and Wat Phiawat, home to a massive sitting Buddha. Continue to Phonsavan, arriving in the early evening.
Overnight: Phonsavan Meals: Breakfast
Day 5: Phonsavan – Plain of Jars Tour
Begin the day with a visit to the Mines Action Group (MAG) office to learn about demining efforts and the ongoing impact of unexploded ordnance. Then, explore the famous Plain of Jars sites. Visit Jar Sites 2 and 3, perched on hilltops with incredible views, and continue to Jar Site 1, the largest site containing over 300 ancient jars.
In the afternoon, return to Muang Khoun to explore ancient pagodas, That Foun Stupa, and Wat Phia Wat. End the day with a visit to PhouXang Viewpoint, where you can enjoy panoramic scenery and a beautiful sunset over the countryside.
Overnight: Phonsavan Meals: Breakfast
Day 6: Phonsavan – Luang Prabang by Road
After breakfast, embark on a long but scenic drive to Luang Prabang. Along the way, stop at a hidden Buddha Cave that once served as a wartime hospital, and optionally visit an old Russian tank. Stop in Ban Somboun, a Hmong village, for a glimpse of traditional life.
After lunch at Phou Khoun Market, continue to Ban KiuKharm Pom, a Khmu village, and Ban Nam Ming, where a bridge offers great views and a chance to stretch your legs. Arrive in Luang Prabang by late afternoon, ready to explore this UNESCO World Heritage city over the coming days.
Overnight: Luang Prabang Meals: Breakfast
Day 7: Luang Prabang – Tak Bat, City Tour & Mekong Cruise to Pak Ou Caves
Rise early (5:30 am) to participate in the sacred morning ritual of Tak Bat, offering alms to the monks, and visit the bustling local fresh market. After breakfast, tour the Royal Palace Museum, then stroll through the Heuan Chan Heritage House, learning about its historic ties to the royal family.
Continue to Wat Xiengthong, Luang Prabang’s most iconic temple, and Wat Khili, which houses a historic photo exhibition of Buddhist heritage. Visit the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre (T.A.E.C.) for insight into Laos’ diverse ethnic cultures (closed on Mondays).
In the early afternoon, board a private boat for a Mekong River cruise to the mysterious Pak Ou Caves, filled with thousands of Buddha statues. On the return, stop at Wat Done Khoun, a unique temple on a river island, before returning to Luang Prabang after sunset.
Overnight: Luang Prabang Meals: Breakfast
Day 8: Luang Prabang – Kuang Si Waterfalls and Buffalo Dairy
Spend the morning at Kuang Si Waterfall, where you can swim in turquoise pools or explore forest trails. Visit the nearby Bear Rescue Centre, which protects and rehabilitates Asiatic black bears.
On the way back, stop at the Laos Buffalo Dairy, a social enterprise that produces artisanal cheeses from buffalo milk. Meet the caretakers, feed the calves, and enjoy a tasting of cheeses, coffee, and homemade ice cream. Optional visit to Ock Pop Tock, a silk weaving centre, for a guided demonstration of traditional techniques.
Tip: Bring a towel if you plan to swim at the waterfall.
Overnight: Luang Prabang Meals: Breakfast
Day 9: Luang Prabang – Departure
Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy some free time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing before your guide transfers you to the airport.
Meals: Breakfast
