Laos itinerary

Highlights of Laos: Luang Prabang and Vientiane in 5 Days

  • Explore Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Luang Prabang city tour with temples and local culture.
  • Discover Pak Ou Caves along the Mekong River.
  • Visit Kuang Si Waterfalls with turquoise pools.
Highlights of Laos: Luang Prabang and Vientiane in 5 Days
ITINERARY

Program description

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Day 1 LUANG PRABANG ARRIVAL – BACI CEREMONY

Upon arrival at Luang Prabang Airport, you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel for check-in.

Situated in northern Laos, Luang Prabang is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its outstanding cultural, historical, and architectural values, and its harmonious blend of the natural and built environment. After a restful break, take a stroll to soak in the atmosphere of this ancient city.

In the late afternoon, enjoy a private Baci ceremony with a local family. This traditional Lao ritual offers a profound cultural experience, giving you a deeper insight into the spirituality of the country. Following the ceremony, share a delightful dinner with the host family, marking a memorable start to your Lao cultural exploration.
Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Day 2 LUANG PRABANG CITY TOUR

After breakfast, embark on a walking tour through the city’s lesser-known lanes, immersing yourself in its authentic, traditional atmosphere. You will explore four different architectural styles categorized by UNESCO:

  • Traditional Lao houses built from tropical hardwood or bamboo on stilts.
  • Hybrid structures of wood and cement from the French colonial era.
  • French colonial buildings similar to those in Vietnam and Cambodia.
  • Old Chinese shop houses, blending commercial and residential purposes.

Later, visit key attractions in the city center, including the oldest temple, Wat Sene, and the exquisite Wat Xiengthong, showcasing classical Laotian architecture. Continue to Heuan Chan, a 19th-century mansion offering a glimpse into aristocratic Lao life, followed by a taste of authentic Lao coffee or tea.

Next, explore the Royal Palace Museum with its fascinating collection of artifacts, and visit the nearby Wat Mai, a richly decorated temple.

In the late afternoon, hike to the summit of Mount Phousi to explore its gilded stupa and enjoy panoramic views of the city and Mekong River at sunset.

The day ends with a visit to the famous Night Market, where you can browse handmade textiles crafted by local and hilltribe artisans.

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Day 3 LUANG PRABANG – PAK OU CAVES

Rise early to witness the sacred daily alms-giving tradition, where over 200 Buddhist monks collect food offerings from locals in the streets.

Afterward, visit the temporary morning market to observe daily life as vendors sell fresh produce, handmade crafts, and textiles.

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a relaxing cruise along the Mekong River to the Pak Ou Caves, a 16th-century cave monastery filled with thousands of Buddha statues. On the way, stop at Ban Xang Hai, a village renowned for its traditional rice whisky distilling.

Return to Luang Prabang and visit the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre to learn about Laos' many ethnic groups.

Drive out of the city to visit Ban Xangkhong, a Thai Lue village famous for its arts and crafts, and explore the nearby Ban Xienglek village, known for its traditional Saa paper-making.

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Day 4 LUANG PRABANG – KUANG SI WATERFALL – TRAIN TO VIENTIANE

After breakfast, travel to the stunning Kuang Si Waterfall, the largest in the area, featuring three tiers and a 50-meter drop into beautiful azure pools. These pools are perfect for swimming, popular with both tourists and locals.

Optionally, visit the Bear Rescue Center, which houses animals rescued from poachers.

On the way back to town, stop at the Ock Pop Tock Living Craft Center, where local artisans craft high-quality fabrics using traditional methods.

In time, transfer to the station for a speed train to Vientiane, the capital of Laos. Upon arrival, meet your guide and transfer to your hotel.

Overnight in Vientiane.

Day 5 VIENTIANE CITY TOUR – BUDDHA PARK – DEPARTURE

Today, explore the remarkable cultural and historical sites of Vientiane:

  • Pha That Luang: Laos' most important Buddhist monument and a symbol of the nation’s sovereignty.
  • Haw Phra Kaew: A former royal temple, now a museum of sacred art.
  • Vat Sisaket: The oldest temple in the city, known for its thousands of Buddha statues.
  • Patuxai: A triumphal arch resembling the Arc de Triomphe, offering great city views.
  • Buddha Park: A fascinating collection of Buddhist and Hindu sculptures on the Mekong River.
  • After your tour, transfer to the airport for your departure.

This concludes your 5-day itinerary of Laos. Safe travels and thank you for choosing Kampá Tour!

ACTIVITY

Optional activities

Tour price

--per person
This price, calculated for four people staying in standard hotels, may vary based on: • Travel period • Number of travelers • Chosen services
The price includes
  • Accommodation for the entire circuit, in hotels or with locals
  • Travel according to the program by private car
  • English-speaking guide for the visits mentioned in the program
  • All activities mentioned in the program, including entrance fees to tourist sites
  • Economy class domestic flights with airport taxes included
  • Meals mentioned in the program
  • Bottle of water during guided tours (2 x 500ml/traveler/day)
  • Government taxes currently in force (VAT, etc.)
The price excludes
  • International flights from your home
  • Visa fees, payable directly at the airport customs (see VISA)
  • Bank fees related to payment
  • Personal insurance
  • Personal beverages during meals: beer, Coca-Cola, fruit juice, etc.
  • Other meals not specified in the program
  • SIM card and mobile plans
  • Tips, personal expenses, and other services not mentioned in the "Our Included Services" section
SERVICE

Services for this trip

Your accommodation:

Tailor-made enquiry

Please leave us a quote request, and our travel advisor will provide you with more detailed information and a quote.
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FAQ

Frequently asked questions

1. How long is the ideal stay in Laos?

The ideal length of stay in Laos varies depending on individual preferences. For those with limited time who want to see the main highlights, 3-6 days is reasonable. If you are a Laos enthusiast and wish to explore in depth and experience it in an authentic manner, 2 weeks (10-15 days) is ideal.

Additionally, combining a trip to Laos with neighboring countries such as Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand can influence the decision on how long to stay in Laos.

Contact our advisors, who are knowledgeable about the destinations in Laos, to design a customized trip that perfectly meets your desires.

2. What is the 'customized travel' option?

Customized travel is a service where your journey is designed according to your preferences for dates, duration of stay, services, and budget. A local advisor assists you in preparing for the trip and supports you on-site, handling transportation, visits, accommodation, and more. This ensures you benefit from an organized trip tailored to your desires and constraints down to the smallest details.

3. What is the best time to travel to Laos?

The ideal time to visit Laos depends on the seasons. There are two main seasons: the rainy season, from June to the end of September, and the dry season, which is divided into the cool dry season from October to March and the hot dry season from April to May. Generally, the best time to explore the entire country is from late October to early March.

For specific regions, the optimal times are:

  • Luang Prabang: November to early March
  • Northern Laos: Early October to late May
  • Central Laos: November to early March
  • Southern Laos: November to early March

Traveling during the rainy season offers lush and beautiful landscapes, better prices, fewer tourists, and easier service bookings, with rain mainly occurring at night, late afternoon, or early morning, and occasional showers during the day.

4. How can I book my trip?

If you agree with the itinerary proposed by one of our advisors, please send us an email to confirm the reservation of the tour with our agency. Your advisor will then provide you with the booking documents, including:

  • A reservation form containing detailed information about your booked tour, as well as your personal details and contact information to be completed. You will need to return the form with these details duly filled out, which will be used for the organization of your trip. Please also send us a scan of your passports.

  • A travel invoice requesting a deposit payment of 25% of the total price.

The organization of your trip will be confirmed upon receipt of the completed form and once the deposit is in our possession. We will also send you a travel contract that certifies the details of your trip, including the duration, travel dates, deposit paid, and your contact information."

5. What are the must-visit destinations in Laos?
  • Luang Prabang: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Luang Prabang stands out with its ancient temples and majestic natural scenery.
  • Vang Vieng: A charming small town by the Nam Song River, famous for its outdoor activities and stunning limestone landscapes.
  • Vientiane: The capital of Laos, Vientiane offers a blend of history, culture, and modernity with many beautiful temples and architectural landmarks.
  • Pakse: Located in southern Laos, Pakse is the gateway to exploring the Bolaven Plateau and the magnificent Tad Fane Waterfall.
  • Bolaven Plateau: Renowned for its coffee plantations, beautiful waterfalls, and refreshing green spaces.
  • 4000 Islands (Si Phan Don): An area on the Mekong River with thousands of small islands, where you can relax and enjoy the fresh air and peaceful villages.
6. What is the price of the trip?

The price displayed on our website does not include international flights and is calculated based on 4 people with standard hotels. Our tours are private with custom services, so the price varies depending on the travel period, the selected service category, and especially the number of travelers. Please contact us for a detailed quote for your trip.

7. What are the dishes to try during the trip?

Vietnamese cuisine is incredibly diverse and delicious. With a gastronomic variety from North to South, you can find many tasty specialties. Each region has its own unique flavors and local dishes. Here is a list of dishes not to miss according to the region:

- In the North: During your stay in Hanoi, be sure to try Pho (beef rice noodle soup), Banh Mi (Vietnamese sandwich), Vietnamese spring rolls (Nem), and the legendary Egg Coffee, a Hanoi specialty.

- In the Central region: You must taste Bun Bo Hue, considered "one of the best soups in the world," and Cao Lau in Hoi An.

- In the South, the Mekong Delta region is renowned for its Vietnamese pancake, Banh Xeo.

8. What type of vehicle is scheduled for my trip?

We provide well-maintained, comfortable private cars with air conditioning for your trip. They are often equipped with a cooler, allowing you to have cold water bottles. The number of seats will depend on the number of participants. Here are our criteria:

Number of travelers 2-3 4-8 9-15  16-20
Car size Private 7-seater car 16-seater minibus 24-seater bus 35 or 45-seater bus

Our drivers are professional, cautious, and friendly. If you wish, they are ready to make stops along the way so you can better admire a beautiful landscape, take photos, or simply relax.

9. Can I make changes to the itinerary?

Yes, it is entirely possible to make changes to the provided itinerary. We specialize in private and tailor-made trips, and our advisors will be able to adjust the program according to your every wish.

10. How can I make payments on-site? Which currencies are accepted?

International cards such as Visa or Mastercard are widely accepted in hotels, shops, and restaurants. However, please note that Vietnamese banks may apply an additional commission of 3% to 4% for this type of payment.

You can also pay in euros or USD at some businesses in major cities (hotels, restaurants, etc.). However, for small expenses, it is more advantageous to have Vietnamese Dong (VND). You can easily exchange currency at banks, jewelry shops, or even at your hotel. You can also withdraw VND from ATMs.

11. When and how is the balance of the trip paid?

As for the balance payment, you can settle it in one of the following ways:

  • In cash upon your arrival. We accept US dollars and Euros (USD/EUR exchange rate calculated on the day of payment). However, we do not accept defaced or excessively old banknotes. We kindly ask you to obtain new bills from your bank to avoid any inconveniences during your trip.

  • By credit card upon your arrival at our office (using our credit card terminal). In this case, there is an additional fee of 3% for our bank if you pay with Visa or Mastercard and 4% for payments with Amex. Payment is made in the local currency.

  • By bank transfer: We request that you complete this transfer no later than 10 days before your departure. This is to ensure that the balance of your trip is credited to our account before the start of your journey

12. What are the payment terms?

To make the deposit payment, you have two options:

  • Bank transfer: Our account details are provided in the travel invoice.
  • Credit card (Visa, Mastercard, Amex) through our bank's secure website. This payment method includes insurance as part of the card services (cancellation insurance, medical coverage, repatriation, etc.). However, please note that you will incur additional fees for our bank with this option: 3% extra on the deposit if you pay with Visa or Mastercard, and 4% extra on the deposit if you pay with American Express. Payment is made in the local currency."
13. Do you offer family rooms or connecting rooms?

If you are traveling with young children, we always try to arrange either family rooms or connecting rooms or rooms next to each other. However, not all hotels in our country have family rooms, and these rooms are usually in high demand in July and August, the peak vacation period for families. Therefore, we recommend booking your trip early to ensure the availability of the services according to your preferences.

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