Laos Northern Discovery 11days

Day 1: Arrival - Vientiane

On arrival at Wattay Airport or Friendship Bridge, you are met and transferred to our centrally located hotel. After a short rest we start our city tour with Wat Sisaket. We also visit the imposing Patouxai Monument well known as “Vientiane’s own” Arc de Triumph, before continuing to the great sacred structure and symbol of Laos, That Luang Stupa.

Overnight in Vientiane.

Day 2: Vientiane - Luang Nam tha - Muang Sing (B)

The journey northwards begins as we board our flight to Luang Namtha, a land of rugged mountains, beautiful forests and rich river plains. On arrival we travel by road to Muang Sing, stopping along the way at the Akha hill tribe village. This ethnic group was originally in China but migrated into Laos through the centuries. They are very poor, but have an interesting culture and  colorful history.

Overnight in Muang Sing.

Day 3: Muang Sing (B,L)

The remote and extremely beautiful mountain region of Muong Sinh is ideal for anyone seeking a true adventure and trekking expedition. After breakfast we have time for strolling around this exotic town where many ethnic minorities are frequently seen on the main street and small vendors sell local textiles and handicraft. This morning we take a short drive north before embarking on a half day walk using the local tracks. We trek through the breathtaking mountain landscape to the Yao, Akkha and Lantern hill tribe villages. Overnight in Muang Sinh.

Day 4: Muang Sing - Luang Nam Tha - Oudomxay (B)

An early morning departure to Oudomxay, these back roads are a perfect way to explore the real Laos. The drive is difficult at times; however, the verdant and rugged mountain scenery combined with the colorful local population makes for a truly unforgettable experience. On arrival, we check into a basic hotel and take a walk to explore this hill town.

Overnight in Oudomxay.

Day 5: Oudomxay - Muongla - Muongkhoua (B)

The local market also attracts numerous ethnic minorities who converge from the surrounding mountainsides or valley to barter and trade their goods. We visit this congregation before we set off on our journey along the Nam Phak River to Muong La. Here is a chance to visit Pra Xack Kham Temple with its sacred Buddha image. Upon leaving Muong La , the roads begin to deteriorate while the drive becomes increasingly fascinating  as we pass through the scenic landscape. Overnight in Muong Khoua.

Day 6: Muangkhoua - Nongkhio - Luang Prabang (B,L)

Upon leaving the timeless village of Nongkhio, we board a traditional boat for a leisurely trip on the Nam Ou River. Along the way we stop to visit the mysterious caves of Pak Ou. We continue our trip to Luang Prabang. There is little traffic on Luang Prabang roads and monks in orange robes scurry in all directions carrying umbrellas to shade themselves from the Sun.

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Day 7: Luang Prabang (B)

Today, we visit this landmark as well as the magnificent Wat Xieng Thong. We also have enough time to explore other sights including the impressive stupa of Wat Visoun, the shrine of Wat Aham ,the city’s oldest temple  Wat Wisunalat and the Wat Mai with thefive tiered roof. No visit to Luang Prabang would be complete without climbing the 329 steps to the top of Phousi Hill for a beautiful sunset view of the Mekong River. The zigzag path crosses over various temples to the sacred, gilded stupa of Wat Phousi at the summit.

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Day 8: Luang Prabang - Vang Vieng (B)

Today we stroll the charming streets of Luang Prabang  for last minute shopping before we make our way to Vang Vieng. En route we stop at several villages of different ethnic minorities. Upon arrival in Vang Vieng  we board a boat for a well paced trip on the Nam Song River , exploring the breathtaking karst formations. Overnight in Vang Vieng

Day 9: Vang Vieng (B)

The limestone mountains and valleys surrounding the resort complex of Vang Vieng are noted for numerous beautiful caves and caverns. The most famous one, Tham Jang, was once used by local people as a hideout from Chinese invaders. After exploring this enormous cave we embark on a two hour walk, using local paths to the Tai Deang and Souay hill tribe villages. Upon leaving these villages we continue hiking through the rice fields and visit two smaller caves of Khan and Khil. The remainder of the day is free for your personal exploration of the town followed by relaxation. Overnight in Vang Vieng.

Day 10: Vang Vieng - Vientiane (B)

Leaving town we travel by road back to Vientiane with a stopover at Vang Xang.  After checking into the hotel we visit the colorful morning market teeming with local treasures and stroll around the town. We also transfer out to explore the impressive Friendship Bridge linking Laos and Thailand. A perfect way to cap the activities of the day is to watch the spectacular sunset over the Mekong River at one of the many bars lining the riverbank. Overnight in Vientiane.

Day 11: Vientiane - Departure (B)

Free time until your flight home.