The Charms of Southern Laos

Discover the enchanting beauty of Luang Prabang, nestled amidst lush jungle-covered hills at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers. Visit Wat Xieng Thong, an exquisite 500-year-old temple and a prime example of the classic Luang Prabang style. Meander through charming side streets to reach Wat Sensoukharam, known as the Temple of 100,000 Treasures. Continue exploring, visiting other temples and attractions along the way.

Explore the National Museum in the former Royal Palace, which showcases exhibits from Laos’s royal past. Phousi Mountain overlooks the palace, and it is believed that those who don't climb its 328 steps have not truly experienced the city. Ascend the hill to enjoy remarkable views of Luang Prabang and the Mekong River.

For a late visit, explore the bustling night market, where you'll find hand-woven textiles and crafts by the hill tribes and local artisans of Luang Prabang.

Meals: Breakfast

Fly to Vientiane, Laos's laid-back capital. Upon arrival at Wattay Airport, you will be warmly greeted by your guide who will then escort you to your hotel. Vientiane is a charming and fascinating capital, boasting an interesting mix of Lao, Thai, Chinese, Vietnamese, French, and American influences. Take a tour of the Patuxay Monument for a panoramic view of the city. Visit Carol Cassidy’s workshop to see the textile masterpieces and then enjoy a relaxing afternoon drink along the Mekong riverside. The rest of the day is yours to explore the city at your own pace.

Option: Early risers can attend the morning Buddhist Alms Giving and watch hundreds of orange-robed monks walk through the streets of Luang Prabang receiving offerings of food from residents and businesses. Laos is one of the few Buddhist nations which preserves this tradition.

Meals: Breakfast

Begin the day at the COPE Visitor Centre, a locally run non-profit organization founded in 1997. Its mission is to provide survivors and individuals with physical disabilities access to a quality, affordable, and nationally managed rehabilitation service. Afterward, transfer to the airport for your scheduled flight to Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. Upon arrival, you will be met and driven to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure.

Please note: The images at COPE can be quite disturbing, so families with children should take that into consideration before visiting the centre.

Meals: Breakfast

Drive through the rural countryside of the Red River Delta, heading towards Halong City. Once you arrive, settle into your comfortable cabin on a cruise boat, where you will spend the night. Get ready to explore the awe-inspiring Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site that has graced the pages of coffee table books and National Geographic magazines. Cruise through the serene waters, surrounded by limestone karsts rising from turquoise depths. Discover beautiful beaches, observe the vibrant floating fishing villages, and uncover hidden lagoons, all while being captivated by the unparalleled beauty of this natural wonder.

Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Arrive at Lao Cai station in the early morning and then take a private transfer to your hotel in Sapa. After breakfast and a quick freshening up, set out on an interesting 5-hour trek through the breath-taking landscapes of Muong Hoa valley. Trek towards the San Sa Ho hanging bridge, ascend through lush rice terrace fields, and reach the fascinating Y Linh Ho and Lao Chai San villages, home to the Black H'mong people. Opt to explore the villages, soak up their ambience, and learn about the local tribes and customs. Enjoy a picnic lunch along the way before continuing through the picturesque beauty of the rice terraces as you head to Lao Chai village. Finally, at the end of the trek, you will meet your car to be transferred back to Sapa.

Trekking: Distance – approx. 12 – 15 km; Grade – Medium, some more challenging sections

Meals: Breakfast | Lunch

Disembark the train in Hanoi and transfer to Noi Bai airport. From there, catch your flight to Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon. Take an orientation walk of the bustling city. Experience the famous streets of Dong Khoi and Le Cong Kieu, both offering fantastic photo opportunities. After the walk, return to the hotel and enjoy the evening at your leisure.

Meals: Breakfast

Transfer by road from Ho Chi Minh City to Cai Be in the Mekong Delta. Board a traditional sampan to navigate through narrow canals and explore the typical lifestyle of the delta. Cruise to Dong Hoa Hiep, an unspoiled area with scenic views. Go ashore for a walk along the riverside and visit a local family where water palm leaves are woven. This offers an opportunity for a hands-on experience and interaction with local people. Continue to a brick kiln where you will learn about the process of hand-made bricks.
Conclude the scenic boat journey in time for lunch in an elegant colonial-style villa set in a lush tropical garden by the river, surrounded by fruit trees, giving you a sense of life during Indochinese times. After lunch, take a short walk along a small canal, towards the Ba Bon Bridge where your private transportation awaits to drive you to Can Tho city. The evening is free for you to unwind and explore your surroundings.

Meals: Breakfast | Lunch

Set off on an approximately 60km drive outside of Saigon to the legendary Cu Chi tunnels. An incredible underground tunnel network was constructed by the Viet Cong to fight the American and South Vietnamese forces during the Vietnam War. Learn about how the tunnels were built, the conditions faced by soldiers and guerrillas, and the hardships they endured while using the tunnels. You even have the option to descend into the real tunnels where the Viet Cong hid and fought. After exploring the tunnels, you will be driven back to Ho Chi Minh City. The rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure.

Meals: Breakfast