Vientiane, Luang Prabang & 4000 Islands

After breakfast, we will visit the National Museum located in the former Royal Palace. This museum offers a fascinating collection of artifacts that showcase the richness of Lao culture, spanning from the early kings to the last monarch. Our exploration continues with some of Luang Prabang's most significant landmarks, including the city's oldest temple, Wat Sene, and the stunning Wat Xiengthong. This temple is renowned for its ornate gilded stucco work, intricate glass mosaics depicting the Tree of Life on the back wall, and its distinctive three-tiered roofs that exemplify traditional Laotian architecture.

In the afternoon, we embark on a scenic cruise along the Mekong River, providing breathtaking views of the serene countryside. We will also visit the intriguing Pak Ou Caves, which are filled with thousands of gold-lacquered Buddha statues of various sizes, left by devoted pilgrims. During our journey, we will stop at the village of Ban Xanghai, known for its traditional rice wine production. On our return, we'll briefly visit Ban Xangkhong, famous for its silk weaving and Saa (jute) papermaking, as well as Ban Phanom, a small village celebrated for its handcrafted textiles. We will return to Luang Prabang for the night.

For those interested, an optional early start offers a unique chance to witness the daily morning ritual where saffron-robed monks gather alms—primarily sticky rice—from local residents. This tradition is a distinctive aspect of Laos, as it is the only Buddhist country that maintains this ceremonial practice.

Following this, you'll visit the bustling Phosi Market, where a variety of goods are on display, including dried buffalo skin, local tea, and saltpeter, alongside fresh chickens, vegetables, and traditional hill-tribe textiles. Laos is renowned for its traditional crafts, and today you'll explore the local villages of various Lao ethnic groups, including Ban Ouay (Hmong Village), Ban Ou (Laoloum Village), and Ban Thapene (Khmu Village).

Afterward, drive to the stunning Khouangsi Waterfall, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear pools or take a leisurely walk along the forest trails. We will return to the city in the late afternoon to catch the sunset at Wat Phabath.

After breakfast, you'll be taken to the airport for your flight to Vientiane. Upon arrival, you'll check into your hotel and have lunch before embarking on a half-day city tour. This tour will introduce you to Vientiane's key temples, including Wat Sisaket, the city's oldest temple, renowned for its thousands of miniature Buddha statues, and Wat Prakeo, the former royal temple that once housed the famous Emerald Buddha. We will also visit the iconic That Luang Stupa and make a stop to photograph the impressive Patuxay Monument, often compared to the Arc de Triomphe. You will spend the night in Vientiane.

After breakfast, we will explore more of Vientiane on foot, visiting notable sites such as Wat Ong Tue, Wat Inpeng, and Wat Haisok. Our stroll will take us through the main shopping areas, including the Vientiane Central Market at Talad Sao and Talad Kouadin, where a variety of items are available, from fresh produce and household goods to souvenirs, textiles, gold, silver, and antiques.

In the afternoon, our tour continues with a visit to the Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge and the Buddha Park. This park features an impressive collection of Buddhist and Hindu sculptures created by a mystical monk and is situated along the Mekong River. To cap off the day, enjoy the stunning sunset over the Mekong River.

You will spend the night in Vientiane.

This morning, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Pakse.

Upon arriving in Pakse, you will meet your guide and then proceed to Champasak District to visit the Wat Phou Temple Complex. This site is renowned for its dramatic setting and is one of Southeast Asia's most striking temples. Nestled at the base of Mount Phu Kao, the Khmer ruins of Wat Phou date back to the 9th century, making it older than the famous Angkor Wat in Cambodia. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2001, Wat Phou is an important archaeological site of Khmer civilization. Each February, during the full moon, a festival at this site attracts many pilgrims from across southern Laos.

After exploring Wat Phou, you will travel to the 4000 Islands region and Khong Island. This area is known for its relaxing atmosphere by day and its charming beauty by night. The remainder of the day is free for you to enjoy as you wish, perhaps lounging on the beautiful beach. You will spend the night on Khong Island.

After breakfast, we will head out to explore the scenic countryside and take a long-tail boat ride to Don Khone. Upon arrival, you can choose to explore the island by bicycle, where you'll have the chance to see remnants from the French colonial era and visit the stunning Liphi Waterfall, also known as "the Corridor of the Devil."

We will then return to the mainland at the fishing village of Ban Nakasang and continue south to Khone Phapheng. Known as the largest waterfall by volume in Southeast Asia, Khone Phapheng is a magnificent sight near the Lao-Cambodian border and is surrounded by a rich wildlife habitat, making it one of Laos' most breathtaking locations. There is also an option to take a local boat to search for the rare freshwater dolphins that inhabit the Mekong River in this area (with some luck, you might spot these elusive creatures).

Afterward, we will drive back to Khong Island for your overnight stay.

You will have some free time until your guide arrives to escort you back to Pakse Airport for your international flight to your next destination.

Please be aware: The standard check-out time is 12:00.