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Laos Past & Present Tour 10 Days

CODE: GDT1337
Private Tour
Duration: 8 - 12 days
Price from: Contact

Route: Laos - Pakse - Kuang Si Waterfall - Phonsavan - Plain of Jars - Bolaven Plateau - Wat Phou - Don Khong - 4,000 Islands - Luang Prabang - Vientiane

Overview

Embark on an enchanting journey through time with our 10-day Laos Past & Present Tour. This comprehensive trip takes you to the heart of Laos, exploring its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. From the laid-back capital of Vientiane to the spiritual city of Luang Prabang—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—this tour offers a deep and meaningful insight into the soul of this beautiful country.

You will discover ancient temples, witness monks collecting alms, and cruise along the mighty Mekong River. Explore the natural wonders of the Kuang Si Falls and the sacred Pak Ou Caves. This journey provides a perfect blend of historical exploration, cultural immersion, and breathtaking landscapes, connecting you with the peaceful charm of Laos.

Trip Map

Highlight

Vientiane Capital: Discover the serene capital with its beautiful temples like Wat Si Saket and the impressive That Luang stupa.
Luang Prabang: Immerse yourself in the spiritual and cultural heart of Laos, a stunning UNESCO World Heritage city.
Morning Alms Giving Ceremony: Witness the moving tradition of monks collecting alms at dawn, a truly spiritual experience.
Kuang Si Falls: Swim in the turquoise waters of these breathtaking tiered waterfalls and explore the surrounding lush jungle.
Pak Ou Caves: Take a scenic boat trip on the Mekong River to visit these sacred caves filled with thousands of Buddha statues.
Mekong River Cruise: Enjoy a scenic cruise along the Mekong, exploring local life along the riverbanks.
Mount Phousi: Climb to the top of this hill for a spectacular sunset view over Luang Prabang and the Mekong River.
Golden Triangle: Visit the famous meeting point of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar for a unique border experience.

Service

HOTELS
Economy 2*+ Hotels
Superior 3* Hotels
First Class 4* Hotels
Deluxe 5* Hotels
Luxury 5*++ Hotels

Notes:
*All prices are based on per adult, in Double/Twin sharing
Surcharge will be applied for single traveler or single room request

Important Notes:
HOTELS, PROGRAMS & SCHEDULES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE

GUIDE/LEADER:
English speaking guide. French , Germany , Spanish, Italian, Russian speaking guide can be arranged with on request.

Inclusion

Exclusion

Itinerary

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Day 1: - Luang Prabang Arrival.

"Sabaidee" - Welcome to magical Laos! Upon arrival at Luang Prabang International Airport, you will be picked up by Laos Travel's representative and transferred to your hotel for checking in. Enjoy a welcome drink and choose to relax or explore nearby sights on your leisure time.Luang Prabang has many great cafés, restaurants and night food stalls which emerge at dusk, ask the guide for personal recommendations to enjoy your dinner.Meals: N/A.Accommodation: Hotel in Luang Prabang.

Day 2: - Luang Prabang – Holy Pak Ou Caves – City Tour.

After breakfast, transfer to Luang Prabang's pier for boarding a private boat for the Mekong River cruise to the famous Pak Ou Caves. Locally called Tam Ting, the caves are filled with thousands of gold-lacquered Buddha statues, coming in a wide range of sizes. During the cruise out, see the fishermen and local villages along the way. For many in the region, the Mekong plays a crucial role in daily life, representing one of the only means of transport and commerce.Return to the town, stopping en route at a craft village, surrounded by verdant rice paddies, that produces traditional textiles and Lao whiskey.In the afternoon, wander around the beautiful ancient town of Luang Prabang taking in all of the sights. Enjoy a leisurely walk to the magnificent stupa of Wat Wisunarat, one of Luang Prabang's most historically important temples, built in the 16th century and serving as a small museum for religious artefacts. Next stop is Wat That Luang, traditionally the cremation site for Lao Royalty and housing the ashes of King Sisavang Vong and his brother, interred inside the large stupa, erected in 1910.Pay visits to Wat Mai and the nearby former Royal Palace, now the National Museum, before climbing to the top of Mount Phousi. The 100 meter (328 feet) hill is crowned by a gilded stupa, That Chomsi, which dominates the old city centre. Enjoy a sunset view of the gilded stupa as well as a panoramic view of the city and surrounding landscape.Meals: Breakfast.Accommodation: Hotel in Luang Prabang.

Day 3: - Luang Prabang – Alms Giving – Kuang Si Waterfall.

An early start provides the fantastic opportunity to witness the captivating centuries old daily tradition of the alms giving ceremony, Tak Bat. Before sunrise, hundreds of saffron-clad monks file out from the old town's 35 temples to collect their daily alms from faithful local residents.Following the ceremony, drive to Kuang Si Falls, the most beautiful waterfall in Luang Prabang. Swim, explore and be surrounded by turquoise waters and jungle. On the route back to Luang Prabang, there is an optional stop at the Free the Bears sanctuary, housing 23 Asiatic Bears rescued from the illegal wildlife trade. Additionally, you will get to see the fascinating world of Lao textiles come alive with a visit to Ock Pop Tok Weaving Centre. Return to the town to relax or explore more of the local area independently.Meals: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch.Accommodation: Hotel in Luang Prabang.

Day 4: - Luang Prabang – Drive to Phonsavan.

After breakfast, leave Luang Prabang for Xieng Khouang Province - home to the mysterious Plain of Jars. It's a long drive (7-8 hours) and the road follows a twisty mountain route, but you will pass through some stunning mountain landscapes and the journey will be punctuated by stops for sightseeing and for lunch in a local restaurant along the way. Visits include Khmu and Hmong villages and a hidden cave temple that served as an army hospital during the war in 1960s.Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure exploring the town's sprinkling of cafes and restaurants catering to those intrepid travelers who make it here.Meals: Breakfast.Accommodation: Hotel in Phonsavan.

Day 5: - Explore the mystical Plain of Jars.

Today you will explore the 3 sites that make up the Plain Of Jars. Despite being named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019, very few visitors travel to this mysterious megalithic site - so once you make it, you're treated to arguably one of Southeast Asia's quietest UNESCO sites. Nobody knows how long the jars have actually been here or what they were used for; some speculate they are funeral urns dating back some 2,000 years. Another theory says that they were probably made to contain and transport "Lao Lao", a glutinous wet rice which is boiled with yeast and left to ferment in large jars. It is believed that they were prepared for a huge celebration, which, for some reason was disrupted whilst the jars were being transported, as other jars in smaller quantities can be found on two other sites close by. Despite being one of the most strategic battlegrounds of the Indochina War, most jars were unharmed and remain a complete mystery even today.Spend time discovering the plain of undulating green fields where the 300 giant stones jars are scattered, the largest of them weighing six tons and measuring 4-metres high. You will also have opportunities to visit a small monastery in Ban Xieng Di, pass areas that were important battlefields during the American war, and observe Xieng Khouang's local village life at Ban Napia - nicknamed the "War Spoon Village".Later in the afternoon, drive back to your hotel in Phonsavan, where the rest of the afternoon at leisure.Meals: Breakfast.Accommodation: Hotel in Phonsavan.

Day 6: - Phonsavan – Fly to Vientiane.

After breakfast, enjoy some free hours in the morning until it's time to transfer to the airport for your short flight to Vientiane.Laos' biggest city remains a tranquil laid-back character, a world away from the frantic capitals in Asia, and most attractions can be reached on foot. After checking to the hotel and a short relaxation, be ready to explore Vientiane! Start at Wat Sisaket, believed to be Vientiane's oldest surviving temple, left intact after the Siamese invasion of 1828. The interior walls of the cloister are covered in niches containing over 2,000 silver and ceramic Buddha images. Next is a visit to Wat Phra Keo, built originally to house the famed Emerald Buddha and now a religious museum that displays a collection of art representing Lao and Khmer artefacts. Continue to Patuxai Victory Monument, Laos' version of the Arc de Triomphe and its most prominent monument. Climb the stairs to the roof for some sweeping, panoramic views over the city. Next, you'll be introduced to see Pha That Luang, the most revered shrine, constructed by King Setthathirat in the 16th century.End your day tour along the banks of the Mekong River as the sun begins to set. Stroll along the river, stop to enjoy a cold drink, or sample a snack from one of the many local food stalls, if you like, before being transferred back to your hotel.Meals: Breakfast.Accommodation: Hotel in Vientiane.

Day 7: - Vientiane – Fly to Pakse – Bolaven Plateau.

Have a breakfast at the hotel then fly south to Pakse, the capital of Champasak Province. On arrival, meet another tour guide and driver of Laos Travel then begin your discoveries with a scenic drive through mountains and winding roads all the way up to the region of Bolaven Plateau. An expanse of highland formed from an ancient volcano, Bolaven Plateau is resplendent with lush jungles, rivers, scenic farmlands and diverse ethnic communities. Explore this naturally beautiful and cool climate elevated region. Start with a visit to the Tad Fane Waterfalls, 120 meters high and located in the Dong Hua Sao Nature Reserve. Continue to the Tad Champi and Tad Yeung waterfalls, which drop an impressive 42 meters and are surrounded by lush vegetation. Then head to a tea and coffee plantation and learn why the Bolaven Plateau is an ideal area for these plantations. Enjoy an exceptional fresh organic cup of coffee prepared with a unique technique at the Jhai Coffee House in Paksong and meet some ethnic minorities.Transfer back to Pakse in the late afternoon. If time permits, take a short orientation tour of the town, explore its colonial and Chinese-style buildings and a local market. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.Meals: Breakfast.Accommodation: Hotel in Pakse.

Day 8: - Pakse – Wat Phou – Don Khong.

After breakfast, check out the hotel and journey along Mekong River to Don Khong in the south of Champasak. Stop at Wat Phou, otherwise known as Vat Phou, to visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dating back more than 1,000 years, Wat Phou is a spectacular pre-Angkorian temple that sits amidst the rice fields and waterways of southern Laos. Explore this mythical temple ruins and tumbledown structures.Enjoy lunch en-route, and continue to Khong Island, the biggest island in Southern Laos and the start of the 4,000 Islands. Called "Siphandon" in Laotian language, this area is where the Mekong stretches over 14km wide and houses thousands of islands between its cascades and rapids. Here the Mekong River is at its widest and dotted with thousands of small islands.Later in the afternoon, you will arrive in the peaceful island of Don Khong, home to small villages and plantations, where you'll spend the night. The remainder of the day, it's recommended to explore the area either by bicycle or tuk-tuk.Meals: Breakfast.Accommodation: Don Khong.

Day 9: - Don Khong – 4,000 Islands – Pakse.

Embark on a traditional long-tail boat and cruise amongst the Siphandon riverine archipelago. Explore this peaceful rural island where locals live out a simple life. Once a minor 19th century French Indochina settlement, Don Khong reveals a handful of colonial-era buildings including an old French railway station. Visit awesome Liphi Waterfalls, nicknamed the "Corridor of the Devil", a natural border between Laos and Cambodia and habitat of the rare Irrawaddy dolphins (sadly, the last known river dolphin in the transboundary pool in the Mekong between Laos and Cambodia was found dead on 15 February 2022).Continue to the 10km-long Khone Pha Pheng Falls, Southeast Asia's largest waterfalls and one of Laos' most magnificent natural attractions. Hear the thunderous roar and gaze at the awesome power created by millions of litres of water crashing over rocks.After relaxing on the boat ride, enjoy a local-style lunch served in a nearby restaurant.Return to the mainland by boat and then travel back to the hotel in Pakse by car, arriving in time for sunset.Meals: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch.Accommodation: Hotel in Pakse.

Day 10: - Pakse Departure.

A transfer will take you to Pakse Airport for your onward travels. Depending on flight schedules, it may be necessary to book a day-use hotel (at additional charge).Meals: Breakfast.

FAQS

1. What types of tours does Golden Trail Travel offer?

Answer: Golden Trail Travel specializes in offering a wide range of travel packages to Vietnam and other Indochina countries such as Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Indonesia, China, and Malaysia. We offer themed tours including Classic Highlights, Cycling, Trekking, Beach Holidays, Luxury Honeymoon, Short Trips, Family, Off The Beaten Track, Multi-Country, Motorbiking, Veteran, Food, Students, Luxury, Golf, Photography, Cooking Class, Bird Watching, Indochina Cruises, Kayaking, Muslim-friendly tours, Offroad 4x4WD, Indochina MICE Travel, Cave Expedition, and Helicopter tours.

2. How can I book a tour with Golden Trail Travel?

Answer: You can book a tour by contacting us directly via phone, email, or by filling out the contact form on our website. Our team of travel experts will advise and assist you in designing a suitable itinerary.

3. Can tours be customized?

Answer: Absolutely! We understand that every traveler has unique preferences. Golden Trail Travel is happy to customize tour packages to fit your specific needs, interests, and budget.

4. Does Golden Trail Travel provide visa support services?

Answer: Depending on your nationality and the destination, we may provide guidance or assistance with the necessary visa procedures. Please contact us for more detailed information.

5. What makes Golden Trail Travel different from other travel agencies?

Answer: We are committed to delivering authentic and unique travel experiences in Vietnam and Indochina. With a team of knowledgeable local experts, meticulously designed tour packages, and dedicated customer care, we ensure every trip is a memorable journey.

6. What should I prepare before the trip?

Answer: We will provide you with a detailed checklist of what to prepare, including information on luggage, appropriate clothing for the weather and local culture, essential personal items, and health advice.

7. What is Golden Trail Travel's cancellation policy?

Answer: Our cancellation policy will be clearly stated in the terms and conditions when you book a tour. Please refer to this information or contact us for specific details.

8. Where can I find information about travel safety and health?

Answer: We prioritize the safety and health of our travelers. Before your trip, we will provide information and advice regarding health, travel insurance, and safety measures at the destination.

9. Can I request a tour guide who speaks Vietnamese or a specific language?

Answer: Yes, we can arrange tour guides who speak Vietnamese or other common languages (such as English, French, German, Spanish, etc.) upon your request and subject to availability. Please inform us of your language preference when booking your tour.

10. Does Golden Trail Travel offer travel insurance?

Answer: We highly recommend all travelers purchase comprehensive travel insurance before departure. While we do not directly provide insurance, we can advise on suitable insurance types and the importance of having coverage during your trip

11. How can I pay for my tour?

Answer: We accept various payment methods, including bank transfers, credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express), and some online payment options. Detailed information on payment options and payment schedules will be provided upon confirmation of your tour booking.

12. Does Golden Trail Travel offer tours for solo travelers?

Answer: Yes, we have tour options suitable for solo travelers, including group joining tours or specially designed private tours. Please contact us so we can advise on the best package for you.

13. Are the tours child-friendly or suitable for seniors?

Answer: We offer many family-friendly tour packages and can adjust itineraries to suit travelers of all ages, including children and seniors. We will advise on the difficulty level, travel time, and activities appropriate for each member of your family.

14. Where can I read reviews from previous customers?

Answer: You can find customer reviews and testimonials on our website (if a review section is available), social media pages, or reputable travel platforms like TripAdvisor.

15. What are Golden Trail Travel's sustainability or responsible tourism policies?

Answer: We are committed to practicing responsible and sustainable tourism. We constantly strive to minimize our environmental impact, respect local cultures, and contribute positively to the communities where we operate.

16. What happens if there's an emergency during the trip?

Answer: Your safety is our top priority. Golden Trail Travel has a 24/7 emergency support team. We will provide emergency contact numbers and detailed instructions before your trip. Our guides and local partners are trained to handle emergency situations professionally.

17. Are my payment methods secure?

Answer: Absolutely secure. We use highly encrypted online payment gateways and comply with international standards for data security. Your personal and financial information will be strictly protected.

18. What support will I receive during the trip?

Answer: Yes. Throughout your trip, you will always have the support of your local guide, driver, and Golden Trail Travel's operation team. We will provide a 24/7 support hotline so you can contact us anytime if you have any issues or need assistance.

19. What is included and not included in the tour price?

Answer: Each tour package has clear details on included services (e.g., accommodation, transportation, meals as per itinerary, entrance fees to attractions, tour guide) and exclusions (e.g., international flights, visas, travel insurance, drinks, tips, personal expenses). You will receive a detailed itinerary and an inclusion/exclusion list before confirming your tour booking.

20. What is the typical group size for Golden Trail Travel tours?

Answer: Our tour group sizes can vary depending on the type of tour. For join-in tours, we try to keep the numbers small to ensure a personalized and comfortable experience. We also offer private tours for families or groups of friends upon request.

21. Whom can I contact if I have questions or need assistance before departure?

Answer: Before departure, you can contact our team of consultants via phone, email, or online chat. We are always ready to answer any questions and help you prepare best for your trip.

22. How is Golden Trail Travel committed to sustainable and responsible tourism?

Answer: We are strongly committed to sustainable tourism. This is reflected in our collaboration with responsible local partners, supporting local communities, encouraging travelers to respect culture and environment, and minimizing negative impacts on destinations. Our goal is to benefit both travelers and local people.

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Laos Past & Present Tour 10 Days

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