Northern Laos Hike & Homestays

In Luang Prabang, you will meet your guide and embark on a picturesque drive along the Nam Ou River to the quaint town of Nong Khiaw. En route, we will make a stop at Ban Na Nyang, a Lao Leu village renowned for its traditional houses and local crafts. Upon arriving in Nong Khiaw in the afternoon, you will have the chance to explore the town. Your guide will take you on a tour and introduce you to some local cuisine for dinner.

"Wow" is the reaction many travelers have had after experiencing this incredible waterfall hike and river journey. The day begins with a serene boat ride on the Nam Ou River, where you’ll have the chance to visit a small Lao village and learn about their river-based lifestyle. Following this, you’ll trek through small streams and rice paddies to reach the base of the 100 Waterfalls. For the next few hours, you'll be surrounded by water and jungle, with the soothing sounds of cascading waterfalls. The inviting pools are perfect for a refreshing dip. Your guide will navigate you through the cascades and prepare a traditional local lunch in the lush surroundings. A small trail at the top of the 100 Waterfalls will take us back down into the valley, offering panoramic views of the Nam Ou landscape. After the hike, we’ll return to the Nam Ou River for a boat ride to Ban Houay Goong, a picturesque Khmu village where you'll spend the night in a homestay. Note: Wear strap-on sandals or quick-drying shoes as your feet may get wet, and remember to pack an overnight bag, leaving your main luggage with the boatman to be retrieved the following day.

We will take a boat and vehicle transfer to the starting point of our trek towards Na Luang. Our journey begins with a walk along narrow paths through rice paddies (depending on the season) and ancient forest areas with towering trees and stunning vistas. Enjoy a jungle lunch and make several stops along the trail. The trek lasts 5-6 hours and involves moderate difficulty, with ups and downs, leading us to a traditional Lao village that maintains its traditional lifestyle. Ensure you have good footwear, as the terrain can be slippery if wet. You’ll explore the village with your guide and might have the opportunity to visit the Clay School, which is supported by visitor donations. We will spend the night in the village, savoring local cuisine. Meals are prepared with seasonal ingredients and offer an authentic taste of local flavors. In the evening, you can explore the peaceful village and its surroundings at your leisure or participate in games with the village children. Note: You will have access to your main luggage in the morning, but will need to pack an overnight bag as your main luggage will remain with the boatman.

We will leave the village by following a local walking trail that leads to the Nam Ou River. This route is one of the most breathtaking in the region, taking you through a canyon with towering mountains on either side. The trek is moderately challenging and takes around 4 hours, including a strenuous uphill section that lasts about an hour, making it demanding, especially in the heat. The path winds through jungle, across rocky terrain, and through rice paddies. We will make a stop at a Khmu village situated along the Nam Ou River to explore its gardens. During the trek, you will enjoy another Lao-style lunch. Afterwards, we’ll transfer by private boat to the tranquil village of Muang Ngoi.

Following breakfast, embark on a brief boat ride to Nong Khiaw before continuing our journey back to Luang Prabang by vehicle. Along the way, we will visit the intriguing Pak Ou Caves, situated at the meeting point of the Mekong and Nam Ou Rivers. The caves, known as ‘Tham Ting’ and ‘Tham Phoum,’ are famous for their extensive collection of Buddha statues and images, accumulated over time by devoted pilgrims. These picturesque caves offer a unique and captivating sight.

Your Northern Laos Explorer tour wraps up this morning in Luang Prabang. Following breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport, marking the end of your journey.