Laos in 11 days: A Journey of Endless Charms

Right after arriving in Luang Prabang, the start of your 11 days in Laos, our dedicated tour guide and driver will be ready to transfer you to your hotel for a seamless check-in process.

Once settled in and with some free time to unwind, our exploration of this enchanting city begins with a visit to the Royal Palace Museum. This remarkable structure, blending French Beaux-Arts architecture with traditional Lao influences, offers a fascinating glimpse into the country’s history. We’ll then proceed to Wat Mai, a unique temple with five-storey architecture and a stunning red-tiled roof dating back to the 18th century.

If time allows, we’ll take a leisurely stroll through the city center, allowing you to witness the vibrant daily life of the local people.

Wat Chomsi shrine at the top of Mount Phousi

As the late afternoon approaches, we’ll climb up Mount Phousi to witness the breathtaking panoramic views. From the summit point, you’ll be captivated by the serene rivers and majestic mountains enveloped in lush greenery. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable sunset that will leave you in awe.

Next, you’ll have the opportunity to participate in a private Baci Ceremony, a deeply ingrained tradition in Lao culture. This sacred ritual is believed to bring blessings and good fortune.

To end the day, you’ll have the chance to share an intimate dinner with a local family, providing a unique and immersive culinary experience.

Included: Private transportation, Accommodation, English-speaking guide, Visit fees, Meals: Dinner.

Start your day in Luang Prabang with a unique cultural experience: waking up early to participate in the sacred alms-giving ceremony. Engage with monks as you offer food, taking part in this respected tradition. Afterward, visit the bustling morning market with plenty of fresh produce and local delights.

After breakfast, explore Wat Sene, the oldest temple in Luang Prabang. Then, venture to the Pak Ou Caves, home to an impressive array of Buddha statues of various ages and materials, situated on a cliff overlooking the Mekong River.

Pak Ou Caves

On your way, stop at Ban Muang Keo, a village famous for its production of Lao-Lao, a traditional rice wine. Returning to Luang Prabang, admire the stunning architecture of Wat Xiengthong, a key symbol of Laos‘ rich cultural heritage. End your day at the Traditional Art and Ethnology Center, which showcases the diverse ethnic groups of Laos (closed on Mondays).

After the tour, relax back at your hotel.

Included: Transportation, Accommodation, English-speaking guide, Visit fees, Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.

Our adventure for today starts at 8:00 AM.

Rice is a staple in Laos, featured in nearly every meal. A community-based rice farm outside Luang Prabang offers a hands-on experience in rice cultivation. Participate in activities from plowing with water buffalo to planting, harvesting, husking, and cooking rice. If interested, you can also explore a nearby organic garden to learn about traditional Laotian medicinal plants and cuisine.

Kuang Si waterfalls

Next, drive through the picturesque countryside to the Kuang Si Waterfalls. Upon arrival, enjoy the breathtaking natural scenery or trek through the dense jungle. Adventurous visitors hoping for a stunning view can climb to the top of the falls via a steep trail. The turquoise pools at the base of the falls are perfect for a refreshing swim.

A short visit to the Bear Rescue Center follows, where you can see rescued Asiatic Moon bears.

Before returning to Luang Prabang, stop by the Living Crafts Center. Set in lush tropical gardens along the Mekong River, this center provides insight into Lao textile traditions.

After a long day, return to the hotel to relax.

Included: Private transportation, Accommodation, English-speaking guide, Visit fees, Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.

At 8:00, our knowledgeable tour guide will pick you up and accompany you to the Elephant Village, where you can interact with elephants in an ethical environment.

Upon arrival, the village’s tour guide will give you a warm welcome and a brief introduction to elephants and their conservation. This will be followed by an opportunity to engage closely with these majestic creatures, creating unforgettable memories. Additionally, you will have the chance to visit the village’s elephant hospital, museum, and gallery, and witness the fascinating process of dung paper making.

Laos Elephant Village

After that, a traditional Lao-long boat cruise will take you to the mesmerizing Tad Sae Waterfall. This natural wonder, particularly captivating during Luang Prabang‘s wet season, promises an awe-inspiring scenery.

For lunch, you will be treated to a buffet at the Elephant Camp restaurant, accompanied by coffee/tea and refreshing drinking water. Vegetarian options will also be available to cater to different dietary preferences.

The Elephant Village experience will continue until 13:00, allowing abundant time for exploration and immersion. Afterward, we will transfer you to the nearby Lao Spirit Resort. Nestled along the picturesque banks of the Nam Kham River, the resort offers fully furnished private traditional villas, providing scenic views of rolling hills and majestic mountains.

Included: Private transportation, Accommodation, English-speaking guide, Visit fees, Boat fees, Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.

This morning, our Laos 11-day itinerary takes you to Vang Vieng by train, enjoying the breathtaking views from the area’s highest peak during the one-hour journey. Upon arrival, visit Tham Jang Cave, the most renowned cave in Vang Vieng, which historically served as a refuge for locals during northern invasions. After exploring the cave, proceed to the hotel in Ban Tha Heua for check-in and relaxation.

Tham Jang Cave

Included: Private transportation, Accommodation, English-speaking guide, Visit fees, Train ticket, Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, continue our Laos trip on a leisurely 2-hour kayaking adventure around Nam Ngum, exploring the nearby islets. In the afternoon, head to Vientiane, a city nestled on the banks of the Mekong River, known for its serene temples and stupas alongside bustling markets and modern amenities. Upon arrival, you’ll have free time to relax and explore the charming city of Vientiane at your own pace.

Nam Ngum Lake

Included: Private transportation, Accommodation, English-speaking guide, Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.

Next up on our Laos 11-day itinerary is to explore Wat Si Muang, a temple renowned for its intricate exterior adorned with exquisite carvings and details that showcase the rich Laotian architectural style, reflecting the nation’s historical heritage.

Then, we will proceed to Buddha Park, a captivating destination that attracts couples and cultural enthusiasts alike. Here, over 200 sculptures depicting Buddhist and Hindu iconography, crafted by a Lao shaman in 1958, stand within the serene atmosphere along the Mekong River.

Wat Sisaket

In the afternoon, our Laos travel tour continues with a visit to Wat Sisaket and Wat Phra Keo. Despite enduring multiple instances of destruction, particularly during times of conflict, these two temples have persevered, thanks to the enduring vitality of their Buddha statues, which now stand as treasured symbols of Laos’ cultural heritage.

During the route to That Luang Stupa, travelers will have the opportunity to pause and admire the panoramic view of the impressive Patuxai, often referred to as Vientiane’s own “Arc de Triomphe.”

Afterward, the evening will be yours to enjoy at your leisure, allowing for personal relaxation and exploration.

Included: Private transportation, Accommodation, English-speaking guide, Visit fees, Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.

After breakfast, transportation will be arranged to take you to the airport for your flight to Paske.

Upon arrival in Paske, we will embark on an exciting journey to the famous Bolaven Plateau. With its cool climate and fertile soil, this region has become a prime location for producing high-quality coffee, attracting not only agriculture enthusiasts but also travelers interested in the local coffee culture.

Bolaven Plateau Waterfalls

Our first stop will be the mesmerizing Tad Lo waterfalls, a captivating collection of three distinct falls. From the bridge, you’ll be able to catch a glimpse of Tad Hang and Tad Lo in the distance. Continuing upriver for another 10 kilometers, we’ll reach Tad Suong, the most breathtaking waterfall among the three.

Afterward, we’ll drive to Ban Houay Houn, where you’ll have the opportunity to gain insightful knowledge about the cultural heritage of the region.

Our journey will then take us through Paksong, a town where the aroma of coffee spreads throughout the air, instantly immersing you in the local specialty.

Finally, we will return to the hotel, allowing you to relax after a day filled with excitement for Laos travel.

Included: Private transportation, Vientiane – Pakse air ticket, Accommodation, English-speaking guide, Visit fees, Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.

After enjoying breakfast, our guide and driver will be ready at 8:30 to transport you to Champasak, allowing you to soak in the picturesque scenery along the way, particularly around the renowned Tad Fane waterfall.

Wat Phou Complex from above

Upon reaching Champasak, we will begin to visit the revered Wat Phou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that serves as a testament to the architectural and cultural achievements of the Khmer civilization. Often regarded as a precursor to Cambodia’s famous Angkor Wat, Wat Phou‘s remarkably preserved ruins provide valuable insights into the religious practices and architectural skills of the Khmer people in the 5th century.

After that, we will pass through the charming town of Champasak, where you can admire the captivating contrast between the French colonial buildings and the ancient temple.

The remainder of the day will be at your leisure to enjoy the tranquil surroundings of Done Khong.

Included: Private transportation, Accommodation, English-speaking guide, Visit fees, Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.

Today, you will embark on a delightful journey on a private longtail boat for a serene Mekong River cruise. This cruise will take you to the tranquil villages of Ban Khone, nestled within the serene 4000 Islands region. It is highly recommended to explore this charming village either by bicycle or tuk-tuk, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in its peaceful aura.

Next on the itinerary is a visit to the breathtaking Liphi waterfall, a captivating and tranquil location where the Mekong River gracefully flows through a series of rock formations, creating a picturesque and soothing landscape.

Khone Phapheng Waterfalls

We will then return to the mainland at the fishing village of Ban Nakasang, and continue our journey southward. Our next destination is Khone Phapheng, often praised as the “Niagara of Asia” for its magnificent size and the massive volume of water that cascades through it.

You will spend the night in Champasak, ensuring a comfortable and restful stay after an eventful day of discovery.

Included: Private transportation, Accommodation, English-speaking guide, Visit fees, Boat fees, Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.

As this is the last day of our journey through Laos in 11 days, after having breakfast, you can freely take a leisurely walk to enjoy some personal moments in the town before onboarding on your departure flight.

We hope you have had beautiful memories during your 11 days in Laos. IDC Travel is always here to welcome and accompany you on your future trips!

Included: Airport drop-off and breakfast at the hotel.