Laos Adventure Overland Tour from Vientiane to Luang Prabang via Vang Vieng, Ban Paklung

We start our adventure by leaving Vientiane and heading along one of Asia's most picturesque roads towards Vang Vieng. This charming town is situated on a bend of the Nam Song River and is renowned for its pristine scenery and dramatic limestone formations, which have largely remained untouched despite the rise in tourism. After checking into your hotel, you’ll have the chance to soak in the stunning mountain views and visit the renowned Tham Jang Cave. This cave, dating back to the early 19th century, served as a refuge from Chinese invaders.

Overnight in Vang Vieng.

Today, we set off early for a scenic drive to Luang Prabang. Although the road conditions are challenging, the breathtaking mountain views make the journey worthwhile. We arrive in Luang Prabang in the afternoon, giving us some free time to explore and take in the town's unique charm. With its shimmering temple rooftops, colonial-era architecture, and dramatic mountain backdrop, Luang Prabang is recognized by UNESCO as “the best preserved traditional city in Southeast Asia.” The town's tranquil streets are often dotted with monks in orange robes, navigating the area with umbrellas to shield themselves from the sun.

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

A visit to the National Museum, housed in the former Royal Palace (closed on Tuesdays), is highly recommended. This museum showcases an exquisite collection of artifacts that highlight the depth of Lao culture from the era of the early kings to the final monarch. Today, we will tour some of the city's key attractions, including the grand Wat Visoun stupa, the sacred Wat Aham shrine, and the historic Wat Sene and Wat Mai temples. We will also visit the stunning Wat Xiengthong, renowned for its intricate gilded stucco and doorways, the vibrant "Tree of Life" mosaic on its back wall, and its gracefully tiered roofs, which epitomize traditional Laotian architecture.

No trip to Luang Prabang would be complete without a climb up the 329 steps to Mount Phousi. From the summit, we can explore the sacred gilded stupa and enjoy a breathtaking sunset view over the city and the Mekong River’s shimmering reflection. Afterwards, we will wander through the Night Market, where a diverse array of handmade textiles crafted by local artisans and hill tribe communities are on display.

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

The stunning mountainous region around Luang Prabang is perfect for an adventurous trekking experience. After breakfast, we will cross the Mekong River and explore one of Luang Prabang's renowned caves. Our trek will take us to the local villages of Ban Chane and Ban Pha Phet, where we’ll meet three distinct ethnic minority groups of Laos. The Khmu hill tribe people, known for their traditional and simple way of life, reside in these areas. After a pleasant visit to Ban Pha Phet, we will continue our trek and then take a boat ride to Paklung. There, we will be warmly welcomed by a local Lao family. In the evening, we will share a traditional meal with the family, enjoying the genuine hospitality of the villagers. The accommodation will be basic and dormitory-style, lacking Western amenities.

Overnight at a homestay in Ban Paklung.

Today, we say goodbye to our Lao hosts and embark on a full-day trek. We'll follow local trails and pass through several hill villages, traveling from Ban Jong to Ban Long Phu. As we journey through these less-visited areas, we’ll likely attract curiosity from the local ethnic communities. Upon reaching Ban Saluen, we’ll cross the Mekong River once more and head towards the renowned Kuangsi Waterfalls. Here, the cascading water flows over layered limestone formations into a refreshing, clear pool—an ideal spot to unwind after our day of trekking.

Overnight at Ban Thapene, close to Kuangsi Waterfall.

Today, we set off to explore more of the stunning landscapes surrounding Luang Prabang. Our trek will take us up mountain slopes, through forests, across streams, and over rice fields. While the journey is demanding, a bit of physical preparation will enhance your experience. By late afternoon, we will reach Ban Long Lao, where you'll have the opportunity to wander through this charming village and observe the daily lives of its inhabitants. During our stay, we will be welcomed into a local home and have the chance to taste their homemade rice wine.

Overnight at a villager’s house in Ban Long Lao (Homestay).

Following breakfast, we embark on a half-day trek through various small hill villages. Once we reach Ban Xieng Mouak, we'll hop into a local Tuk Tuk for a brief ride back to Luang Prabang. The remainder of the day is yours to explore the town at your own pace and perhaps enjoy some shopping.

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

You’ll have some leisure time to further explore the town or simply unwind before your transfer to the airport for your departure.