From the energy of Bangkok to the calm of Laos, this trip is a study in contrasts. Visit temples in Chiang Mai then spend the evening exploring the night market. Sail the Mekong into the heart and soul of Laos. Your experienced tour guide will make sure you get the most of your tour, but will leave plenty of time for you to do your own thing. We utilize many forms of transport—both public and private—to maximize time spent exploring the history and culture of this unforgettable region. Would you rather shorten or extend your traveling duration? Please contact us.
Prices shown are per person based on a party of at least 2 adults traveling together. The Single Room Supplement cost is in addition to the twin sharing cost for those who would like a single room. If traveling alone, please contact us for a solo traveler cost.
Hotel with daily breakfast, village homestay, sleeper train, dinners as indicated, English speaking local guides, entrance fees to sites listed on the itinerary, private A/C transportation with expert drivers, and airport transfers.
Interested in this itinerary but would like to make changes to the hotels, destinations, sites, or anything else? Contact us at info@exoasia.vn to customize this itinerary just for you.
Arrive at any time. Today is arrival day, so there are no activities planned until an evening welcome meeting. Relax, explore the city, and adjust to the pace of life in Bangkok.
Guided longboat tour of Bangkok’s klongs and Wat Po. Enjoy a 1-hr longtail boat tour of Bangkok's famous klongs (canals). The trip finishes at the Royal Temple of Wat Po for a guided tour. After, there is time for shopping, a visit to Grand Palace or a stroll along Khao San Rd. In the evening, board the overnight train to Chiang Mai.
Arrive early morning and use some free time to explore. Choose from a range of optional activities or stroll the city independently. In late afternoon, set off to visit the temple complex, Doi Suthep. If you're lucky, you may witness the chanting of the monks. Climb the 300-step naga (mystical serpent) staircase to one of northern Thailand's most sacred temples, or opt to take a cable car and enjoy the view. Learn all about Doi Suthep’s history from a local guide – built on top of a mountain, the temple sits among pagodas, statues, bells and shrines.
Drive to Chiang Khong, a sleepy trading town nestled on the bank of the Mekong River. En route, visit Wat Rong Khun — the dazzling 'White Temple'. Wander the local food market or sit back and enjoy a slower pace of life relaxing in Thailand with river views of Laos.
Cross the border to the Laos immigration area, then take a songthaew (local bus) to a traditional slow boat. Travel down the Mekong River and adjust to the relaxed pace of life in Laos. This predominantly mountainous country has unsurpassed views of the riverside villages, the tropical jungle, and the mountains. It can be quite cold from November to February.
Continue on by slow boat down the mighty Mekong - Enjoy the ride down the Mekong on our private boat (it’s pretty comfortable and spacious, and there’s a toilet on board). Have some fruit, tea, and coffee (free of charge); water and soft drinks are available for purchase. Before arriving at Luang Prabang, enjoy a visit outside to the Pak Ou caves. After, re-board the boat and continue to Luang Prabang, arriving in the early evening.
Take a tour of the Ethnology Museum — a great chance to learn more about the dress and customs of local people. Drop into Ock Pop Tok for an introduction to Laos textiles and handicrafts. Then, take a half-day trip out to the stunning Kuang Si waterfalls and be sure to pack a swimsuit. Enjoy a delicious meal with a local family. Learn about Laotian cuisine and life in Luang Prabang.
Enjoy a free day exploring all Luang Prabang has to offer. Options include cooking classes, temple visits, massages, night market shopping, bike riding, and hiking.
Drive winding mountain roads through gorgeous scenery to reach Vang Vieng. Experience a local homestay in a nearby village. Here, enjoy traditional Laotian food while getting to know your host family. Your tour guide will provide insight into the way of life of village residents.
Enjoy free time in Vang Vieng. Move to a hotel for the night, an ideal location for exploring the countryside by bicycle or kayak.
Head out of the mountains to one of Asia's sleepiest capital cities. Opt to visit some of the highlights of Vientiane including Wat Sisaket, one of the city's oldest and most fascinating temples, and Wat Phra That Luang, Lao's national symbol and one of her most sacred sites. For those who like to shop, don't miss the morning market, which, incidentally, is open all day!
Meet at the hotel at the appointed time for your transportation to the airport for your departure flight.