7 Day / 6 Night Legendary Laos from £1135 per person

Overview

A country still in its infancy as far as tourism goes, Laos’ growth on the world stage was put on hold not only by the Vietnam war but by the isolationist government that ruled the country until 1989. It is a place to see a traditional, predominantly rural and deeply Buddhist lifestyle set against a backdrop of mountains, forests, snaking rivers and rice paddies.

Our Laos itinerary starts in northern Thailand, in the so-called Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Burma and Laos meet, an area inhabited by several hill tribes. It can therefore be easily combined with a northern Thailand itinerary.

Days 1 and 2 The Mekong

From Chiang Rai you’ll cross the border into Laos at Huay Xai and travel by Luang Say cruise boat along the Mekong river, a fascinating two day journey with the night spent at Luang Say Lodge.

Days 3, 4 and 5 Luang Prabang

Unesco world heritage city and ancient capital, built where the waters of the Mekong meet the Khan, Luang Prabang is a place of enormous charm as well as temples, markets, museums, including the Royal Museum housed in the old palace. Your home from home will be La Résidence Phou Vao, or if you would rather be more central, the Maison Souvannaphoum. During your stay we will arrange a city tour, which will include the Thad Makmo stupa and the mountaintop Wat Phou Sii temple, as well as a visit to the temple caves at Pak Ou, a one hour trip by boat from Luang Prabang, and a detour to inspect the Khuang Su waterfalls.

Day 6 Vientiane

Fly to the gentle capital Vientiane, staying at the Settha Palace and visiting the golden That Luang stupa, the markets and monuments. Your options are to fly to Hanoi or Phnom Penh to link up with our Vietnam or Cambodia itineraries. Alternatively, fly to Bangkok and spend some time in Thailand before flying home. If, however, you’d like to extend your visit and venture further afield, we would recommend heading south to Pakse and taking the 1000 Islands cruise to Wat Phou temple.

Day 7 – Onward flight

Price from £1135 per person including all transfers, 5 nights’ accommodation, 2 day Luang Say Cruise, 2 days’ touring in Luang Prabang and half a day touring in Vientiane.

WHEN TO GO: November to April

International flights are not included as special offers change all the time. Our consultants will find the best possible price for you at time of booking. Flights to Vientiane start from £660 per person.