One of Indochina's gems, Laos is a beautiful, diverse, welcoming nation blessed with great cultural sites and spectacular natural beauty.
A journey for the more adventurous, this itinerary traverses the length of the country from Luang Namtha in the far north to the wonderful 4,000 Islands on the Laos-Cambodia border. In-between, visits will be made to remote minority villages in the northeast, beautiful Luang Prabang, the eco-tourism destination of Oudomxay and Laotian capital Vientiane. Heading south explore the Kong Lor Caves and Champasak before relaxing or enjoying the activities of Kingfisher Eco Lodge in the Kiat Ngong Wetlands.
Luang Prabang – Luang Namtha – Oudomxay – Vang Vieng – Vientiane – Kong Lor – Thakhek – Champasak – Kiat Ngong Wetlands – Bangkok
Trip Highlights
- Luang Namtha is a delightful place and a base from which to meet local ethnic groups
- Discover the spectacular Khmer temples of Vat Phou, one of the finest in the region
- Whilst staying at Kingfisher Eco Lodge trek, canoe and enjoy excellent birdwatching
- Marvel at the towering limestone hills and vibrant green paddy fields of Phou Hin Poun
- Explore the vast Kong Lor Caves with their formations of stalactites and stalagmites
- Stay at Nam Kat Yorla Pa and discover rural Laos on day hikes and local village visits
Itinerary
Day 1
Depart the UK
Today depart the UK on the Thai Airways flight to Bangkok.
Day 2
Bangkok to Luang Prabang – by air
Arrive into Bangkok and connect onto a flight to Luang Prabang where you will stay for the next three nights. On your arrival you will be met and taken to your hotel. Encircled by the mountains of northern Laos and resting on the banks of the Mekong River, Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Laos’s most beautiful and atmospheric cities.
Villa Maly Boutique Hotel
Maison Dalabua
Satri House Hotel
La Residence Phou Vao
Rosewood Luang Prabang
Day 3
Luang Prabang
After breakfast take a private cruise along the Mekong River, a rewarding way to discover life along the river where you can observe the daily activities of locals and fisherman. Travel upstream for two hours and reach the Pak Ou Caves which are famous for the thousands of gold-lacquered Buddha statues that are housed in the caves carved from the limestone cliff. Return to the city for an afternoon tour with your guide. Start with visits to the Royal Palace Museum, Wat Xieng Thong and That Makmo, known locally as the 'Watermelon Stupa'.
- Breakfast
Villa Maly Boutique Hotel
Maison Dalabua
Satri House Hotel
La Residence Phou Vao
Rosewood Luang Prabang
Day 4
Luang Prabang
Early this morning you will have the unique opportunity to experience Alms giving, a typical Buddhist procession whereby locals offer saffron-robed monks food. Travel to a nearby village where you will watch the centuries-old ceremony unfold and see the way locals celebrate their faith and show their gratitude to the Buddha. Continue to Kuang Si Falls, a series of beautiful cascading turquoise pools surrounded by dense forest. Hike to the top for wonderful views or relax in the lower pools. There is also a chance to visit the Free the Bears project, a sanctuary that houses Asiatic Blacks Bears and aims to rescue these endangered creatures from poachers. En route back to Luang Prabang make a stop at an ethnic village where you have the chance to learn about their culture and traditions.
- Breakfast
Villa Maly Boutique Hotel
Maison Dalabua
Satri House Hotel
La Residence Phou Vao
Rosewood Luang Prabang
Day 5
Luang Prabang to Luang Namtha – by train
This morning you will experience a memorable elephant experience in the village of Xieng Lom. After an introduction to elephant behaviour and the best means of interacting with them, take a short ride across the Nam Khan River where these majestic creatures await. After meeting the elephants and feeding them some healthy snacks start the theraputic trek where you will walk alongside these gentle giants through the jungle making stops for them to cool off and play in the stream. Transfer to Luang Prabang Rail Station and board the high-speed train to Luang Namtha. Luang Namtha is a bustling little town and important trading centre for northern Laos regularly frequented by the many different minority groups that inhabit the surrounding region.
- Breakfast,
- Lunch
Pou Villa
Day 6
Luang Namtha
Today enjoy a three-hour trekking experience in Nam Ha (a soft to medium hike). Meet your local guide at Poumpouk Temple which boasts two impressive stupas that sit side-by-side. Start the hike along the trails that cut through the dense forest where you will constantly shaded by the canopy. The forest represents the main source of nutrients and locals are allowed to gather vegetal sources for their own personal consumption and for medical purposes. Luang Namtha is home to a great diversity of ethnicities, a crossroad of tribes cohabiting for centuries. Arrive in the Akha village of Ban Nammat where you will be hosted for lunch by the village chief. Learn about the Akha people who originated from China in the early 20th century and can now be found throughout the region. Drive to Ban Nam Dee, a creative village of weavers from the Lanten people, where you can observe how the ladies use natural indigo dyes to make traditional clothes and handicrafts.
- Breakfast,
- Lunch
Pou Villa
Day 7
Luang Namtha to Oudomxay – by train
Leaving Luang Namtha, take the train to Oudomxay, a province in the northeast of Laos that is truly one of the most beautiful and desired eco-tourism destinations in the country. Transfer to Nam Kat Yorla Pa, a unique haven in a protected forestry area. Enjoy a BBQ dinner this evening.
- Breakfast,
- Dinner
Nam Kat Yorla Pa
Day 8
Oudomxay
Nestled amongst rugged landscapes and rural villages, the resort of Nam Kat Yorla Pa in northeastern Laos offers adventurous outdoor activities for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. From ziplining and rock climbing to serene hiking trails that lead to hidden waterfalls and trekking over sky bridges, you can choose from numerous activities. There are also cultural experiences available too such as visiting a local village and dressing up in traditional dress.
- Breakfast,
- Lunch
Nam Kat Yorla Pa
Day 9
Oudomxay to Vang Vieng – by train
Take the train from Oudomxay to Vang Vieng this afternoon. Once a backpacker mecca, Vang Vieng has transformed to a quieter town and is surrounded by karst mountains, lush green forests and cave systems. On arrival you may wish to explore the nearby caves, or in the evening you can opt to take a romantic, private cruise down the Namsong River on a traditional longtail boat. Admire the towering limestone cliffs and rice paddies as the sun sets over the landscape.
- Breakfast
Riverside Boutique Hotel
Day 10
Vang Vieng
Today enjoy a full day tour of Vang Vieng and the surrounding area. Take a tuk-tuk to Ban Vieng Samai, a small village home to both Khmu and Lao people. Gain an insight into their daily lives, witness handicrafts first hand and enjoy a traditional lunch at a local Khmu family home. Embark on a leisurely walk through the picturesque rice paddies to a nearby cave and enjoy a sample of lao hai, a local rice wine.
- Breakfast,
- Lunch
Riverside Boutique Hotel
Day 11
Vang Vieng to Vientiane – 129kms
This morning take a private overland transfer to the capital, Vientiane. With a new highway this drive takes less than two hours. Capital of Laos, Vientiane is set on the banks of the Mekong River facing neighbouring Thailand and has retained much charm with well-preserved French colonial buildings and wide tree-lined boulevards. Take a guided tour this afternoon of the city. Places of interest include That Luang Stupa, one of the holiest Buddhist monuments in the country, and the superb temples of Wat Phra Keo and Wat Sisaket – the latter being the oldest religious complex in Vientiane. Also visit the Anousavari Monument which bears more than a passing resemblance to the Arc de Triomphe.
- Breakfast
Souphattra Heritage Vientiane
Day 12
Vientiane
Enjoy at day at leisure to enjoy Vientiane. There is an option for a half-day monks and charity tour where you will enjoy an enriching day out focusing on the local community. Meet with Buddhist monks to better understand their role in society and learn more about the struggles peoples face with disabilities.
- Breakfast
Souphattra Heritage Vientiane
Day 13
Vientiane to Ban Kong Lor – 290kms
During your first leg of the journey this morning make a stop at Wat Prabath Phonsane before heading to the protected area of Phou Hin Poun. The scenery becomes spectacular with limestone karsts, rice paddies and lush forests. Enjoy lunch at Rock View Point where you will be inspired by the views of the Khammoune province. Continue to Ban Kong Lor and freshen up in the hotel upon check in. The afternoon’s activity is exploring the famous Kong Lor Caves, a spectacular underground cavern along a section of the Hin Boun River. After fitting life jackets and headlamps, explore the vast formations of stalactites and stalagmites.
- Breakfast
SpringRiver Resort
Day 14
Ban Kong Lor to Thakhek – 190kms
After a guided walk through the surrounding villages early in the morning to witness the hustle and bustle, take a four-hour drive to the sleepy town of Thakhek.
- Breakfast
Inthira Thakhek
Day 15
Thakhek to Champasak via Savannakhet – 388kms
After breakfast continue by road to the Mekong city of Savannakhet. Despite its proximity to Thailand, this is a quiet provincial city of tree-lined streets and welcoming locals. If time permits, visit the 19th century Wat Sayaphum before enjoying a stroll through Savannakhet's colonial centre. In the afternoon head south to Champasak.
- Breakfast
The River Resort
Day 16
Champasak
After breakfast visit the UNESCO-listed archaeological site of Wat Phou. Sitting in the shadow of the sacred mountain of Linga Parvata, this is one of the finest temple complexes anywhere in Southeast Asia. Re-discovered by a French explorer in the mid-19th century, the crumbling ruins pre-date those at Angkor Wat by almost 200 years and are equally mysterious. Spend time exploring the site before returning to the hotel in the afternoon.
- Breakfast
The River Resort
Day 17
Champasak to Ban Khiet Ngong - 34kms
Today transfer to Kingfisher Eco Lodge, an idyllic retreat perfect for nature lovers who are seeking serenity. Nestled adjacent to the Beung Kiat Ngong Wetlands and the Xe Pian National Protected Area, Kingfisher Eco Lodge immerses guests in its beautiful natural environment that is rich in diversity.
- Breakfast,
- Dinner
Kingfisher Ecolodge
Day 18
Ban Khiet Ngong
Today you have a full day to enjoy the lodge or participate in some of the lodge’s activities that include forest trekking to Phou Asa, mountain biking to local villages or wetland canoeing with birdwatching.
- Breakfast,
- Lunch,
- Dinner
Kingfisher Ecolodge
Day 19
Ban Khiet Ngong to Ubon Ratchathani – 188kms / Ubon Ratchathani to Bangkok – by air
After breakfast head towards the Laos-Thai border. After crossing back into Thailand continue to the airport at Ubon Ratchathani for the onward flight to Bangkok. Bustling and eccentric, intriguing and unforgettable, Bangkok is the gateway to the country and Thailand's principle city. With a history stretching back a little over two-hundred years, Bangkok has always been a modern forward-thinking place yet much traditional Thai culture remains, as do beautiful monasteries, colourful markets and opulent palaces.
- Breakfast
Ariyasom Villa Boutique Hotel
COMO Metropolitan Bangkok
The Sukhothai Bangkok
Capella Bangkok
The Siam
Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok
Day 20
Bangkok
Today explore Bangkok with your guide starting at the Grand Palace. Built by the early kings of the Chakri dynasty, this vast complex contains not only the King's private residence, stables and ministries but also over fifty temples including Wat Phra Kaeo, Thailand's oldest temple which houses the thousand year old Emerald Buddha. Afterwards visit the Reclining Buddha at Wat Po, then the atmospheric flower market before boarding a private long-tail boat to cruise the quiet canals of the Chao Phraya River. End the day at Wat Arun for a panoramic view of the Grand Palace and river.
- Breakfast,
- Lunch
Ariyasom Villa Boutique Hotel
COMO Metropolitan Bangkok
The Sukhothai Bangkok
Capella Bangkok
The Siam
Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok
Day 21
Bangkok to the UK
After breakfast transfer back to Bangkok Airport and board the Thai Airways flight non-stop to the UK.
- Breakfast
Extending your stay...
After visiting Bangkok add a two-night stay at the Float House located in the Kanchanaburi province. Offering a tranquil escape, this luxury resort floats atop the River Kwai and is a truly unique experience where you can explore the surrounding caves by kayak or longtail boat.
Enjoy a relaxing few days in southern Thailand. There are plenty of options available depending on your requirements; Koh Lanta is ideal for a peaceful resort stay, Krabi is a great destination for day island hopping whilst Koh Samui boasts exclusive hotels and picture-perfect beaches.
Extend your trip further and travel to Cambodia. A fascinating and welcoming country of considerable variety and diversity, a highlight of any visit includes the magnificent temples located in the Angkor Archaeological Park.
Guide to Price
21 days from £6300 - £7000 per person
What's Included
- International and domestic flights and train travel
- Private car and driver
- Sightseeing with accompanying English speaking guide
- Hotel accommodation and taxes
What's Not Included
- Visas
- Travel Insurance
- Expenses of a personal nature
- Meals unless specified
from £6300 - £7000
Travel Information
Getting There
There are currently no direct flights between the UK and Laos, so the best option is to fly to Bangkok or Singapore and then take a connecting flight to either Vientiane or Luang Prabang. Flights are available from many of the major UK airports to both Bangkok and Singapore using a range of airlines including Thai Airways, British Airways and Singapore Airlines.
Flying Times From UK
Direct flights to Bangkok take around 12 hours. From Bangkok to Laos flight times range from 1 to 2 hours depending on your chosen destination.
Time Zone
Laos is +7 hours ahead of GMT.
Visa Requirements
A Laos e-visa can be applied for online at least 5 days in advance. The e-visa is single entry only and is accepted at major entry points - for more information please visit https://laoevisa.gov.la/index. Visas can also be obtained on arrival (single entry) at many entry points including Vientiane Wattay airport, Luang Prabang airport and Paske airport.
The Laos government is piloting a Digital Immigration Registration arrival card system for two years starting September 2025 initially at the following points of arrival: Luang Prabang International Airport, Vientiane (Wattay) International Airport, Pakse International Airport and the First Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge (Vientiane–Nong Khai). From 1st January 2026, nationwide roll-out is expected.
Do’s & Don’ts
It is illegal to import, transport, use, store or sell vapes or e-cigarettes in Laos. This ban applies to both visitors and locals. If found in possession of a vape or e-cigarette the device will be confiscated and a fine, or more significant penalty, enforced. We strongly advise not to bring or use any vape or e-cigarette during your stay in Laos.
Do carry your passport, or copies of your passport, with you at all times.
It is courteous to ask permission from people or monks before taking any photographs.
If you are going to a place of worship you should remove your shoes, ensure your upper arms and legs are covered and remove your hat.
Do not stray from the path in rural areas. Unexploded mines are a hazard throughout the country, particularly in Xieng Khouang Province close to the Plain of Jars and in the vicinity of the Lao-Vietnamese border. Keep to main routes and avoid picking up any discarded metal objects.
Money
The official currency of Laos is the Lao Kip, but the Thai Baht and US Dollars are also widely accepted. Although US Dollars are accepted, it is not advisable to rely solely on this form of currency throughout your trip and best to also have a supply of Lao Kip as this is generally preferred for smaller purchases. Cards are not widely accepted but larger hotels in all of the main cities do accept card payments. You can also use ATM machines in most major towns, just remember to inform your bank before you travel.
Tipping
In Laos tipping is not generally expected. If you visit a temple or other religious institution, there will be contribution boxes available for donations. A guideline for tipping drivers and guides will be advised prior to travel.
Food & Drink
Lao cuisine has been heavily influenced by the food of surrounding countries, particularly Thailand and China. There is also a strong French influence with baguettes are readily available, numerous French restaurants and French style draught beers. Staples of the Lao diet include sticky rice, noodles, soups and grilled or steamed meat. Two famous, mouth-watering dishes are ‘larb’, a spicy mixture of meat, herbs and vegetables, and ‘som tam’, a spicy green papaya salad.
Accommodation
In both Luang Prabang and Vientiane there is a wide variety of accommodation including some of South East Asia’s best heritage hotels. In the more rural areas of the country the accommodation, although clean and comfortable, tends to be simple with a Laotian style and limited facilities and amenities. Often the purpose of visiting rural locations in Laos is to experience the area rather than the accommodation you are staying in, however, you will of course be made to feel most welcome with every effort made to make your stay as comfortable as possible.
Shopping
Laos is renowned for silver jewellery and textiles and the best place to pick such wares up is Luang Prabang where you will find a modern take on traditional styles and techniques. There is no shortage of markets in Laos offering shoppers the opportunity to browse traditional handmade craft items including textiles, rattan items and carvings.
Suggested Reading
The Rough Guide and Footprint are excellent books with plenty of general information on the country. For more insight into the history of this fascinating country, from its ancient history to its colonisation by France and its subsequent freedom, try Martin Stuart-Fox’s ‘A History of Laos’ or ‘A Short History of Laos’ by Grant Evans. If you want some Laos-based fiction to read by the beach or pool, why not try one of Colin Cotterill’s Dr Siri mystery series? All Cotterill's books are set in this beautiful country.
Health
Your doctor is the best person to advise you on staying healthy whilst abroad but current recommended vaccinations are Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Tetanus and Diphtheria. Yellow Fever is compulsory, but only if you have visited an affected Yellow Fever area within 5 days prior to your arrival. In some instances anti-malarial tablets may also be needed. For current information on health advice you may wish to visit the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) website Travel Health Pro on https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/. The Medical Advisory Services for Travellers Abroad (MASTA) website (www.masta.org) is also a useful resource.
Travel Advice
For current information on Laos the best resource is the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice) which is a comprehensive resource and updated regularly. We would also recommend visiting the Safer Tourism Foundation website (safertourism.org.uk) before you travel and will be happy to address any questions or concerns you may have.
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