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Northeast Laos Adventure 8 Days

  • CODE: GDT1341
  • Private Tour
  • Duration: 8 - 12 days
  • Price from: Contact
  • Route: Laos - Nong Khiaw - Luang Prabang - Vientiane

Overview

Northeast Laos Adventure 8 Days – A Deep Dive into Laos' Undiscovered Historical Heartland

 

Embark on the Northeast Laos Adventure 8 Days tour, a meticulously crafted and profoundly immersive expedition designed for the intrepid traveler seeking to unearth the enigmatic history, resilient cultures, and dramatic landscapes of Laos' less-explored northeastern provinces. This comprehensive 8-day journey takes you far beyond the conventional tourist routes, revealing a region steeped in poignant history, vibrant ethnic traditions, and breathtaking mountain scenery. Prepare for an unforgettable odyssey that promises a unique blend of historical discovery, cultural immersion, and serene natural beauty.

Your extraordinary adventure typically begins as you delve into Xieng Khouang province, home to one of Laos' most mysterious and iconic sites: the Plain of Jars (UNESCO World Heritage Site). Spread across vast fields, you'll explore various sites dotted with thousands of ancient, colossal stone jars, pondering their origins, purpose, and the countless theories surrounding these megalithic structures. This ancient puzzle offers a powerful sense of wonder and connection to a bygone era. Beyond its ancient past, Xieng Khouang also holds a poignant modern history, having been heavily impacted by the "Secret War" – an aspect you'll learn about while maintaining respectful sensitivity.

From the Plain of Jars, your journey ventures deeper into the northeastern frontier, traversing stunning mountain landscapes and winding roads that reveal the true heart of rural Laos. The region is characterized by its diverse ethnic minority populations, including the Hmong, Khmu, and Tai Dam. You'll have invaluable opportunities to visit traditional villages, respectfully interact with local communities, and gain profound insights into their unique customs, languages, and traditional ways of life. This direct cultural exchange fosters a deeper understanding of Laos' rich tapestry of peoples.

A significant historical highlight of this tour is an excursion to Sam Neua and the famous Vieng Xai Caves. This incredible network of caves served as the hidden headquarters of the Pathet Lao during the Indochina War, providing shelter for over 20,000 people, including leaders, hospitals, schools, and markets, all underground. Exploring these caves offers a truly humbling and eye-opening experience, providing a tangible connection to a pivotal period in Laotian history and the resilience of its people. This site is a powerful testament to human endurance and ingenuity.

Throughout the Northeast Laos Adventure 8 Days tour, Golden Trail Travel ensures a seamless, enriching, and responsible experience. We prioritize sustainable tourism, working closely with local communities and operators to ensure your visit benefits them directly and respects the pristine environment. With expert local guides providing deep cultural, historical, and natural insights, this tour is more than just a vacation; it's an immersive historical expedition, a profound cultural journey, and a serene escape into the untouched beauty of Laos' northeast. Prepare to be enchanted by its mysterious past, the warmth of its people, and the unforgettable sense of discovery in this truly unique region

Trip Map

Highlight

Unforgettable Experiences on Your Northeast Laos Journey

 

  • Plain of Jars (UNESCO World Heritage Site): Explore the enigmatic Plain of Jars in Xieng Khouang province, pondering the mysteries of thousands of ancient, colossal stone jars scattered across vast fields.

  • Vieng Xai Caves & Secret War History: Discover the remarkable Vieng Xai Caves, a vast underground city that served as the hidden Pathet Lao headquarters during the Indochina War, offering a profound historical insight.

  • Authentic Ethnic Minority Village Visits: Journey into remote areas to visit traditional villages of diverse ethnic groups like the Hmong and Khmu, gaining genuine insights into their unique cultures, customs, and daily lives.

  • Dramatic Mountain Landscapes: Traverse stunning mountainous terrain and winding roads, enjoying breathtaking scenic drives through the less-explored regions of Northeast Laos.

  • Phonsavan Exploration: Explore Phonsavan, the provincial capital of Xieng Khouang, and its surroundings, learning about the region's history, including remnants of the "Secret War."

  • Sam Neua's Frontier Charm: Experience the laid-back, frontier atmosphere of Sam Neua, a town nestled amidst picturesque hills and a gateway to the historical Vieng Xai Caves.

  • Rural Laotian Life: Witness authentic rural life, observing traditional farming practices, local markets, and the timeless rhythm of communities in Laos' beautiful countryside.

  • Responsible & Sustainable Tourism: Participate in a tour deeply committed to ethical practices, supporting local communities, and preserving Laos' pristine natural and cultural heritage.

  • Unique Historical Context: Gain a deep understanding of Laos' complex modern history and the resilience of its people, particularly regarding the "Secret War."

  • Breathtaking Photography Opportunities: Capture incredible, unique images of ancient jar sites, hidden cave cities, stunning mountain vistas, and genuine local interactions

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.

Your Dream Off The Beaten Track, Crafted Just for You Across Asia

At Golden Trail Travel, we believe every getaway should be as unique as the traveler. As Asia's premier Off The Beaten Track tour operator, we specialize in creating bespoke coastal experiences that perfectly match your desires and budget, wherever your wanderlust takes you.

Our dedicated team—comprising experienced local experts, reliable drivers, insightful tour consultants, and passionate travel specialists—is committed to ensuring your escape is seamless, relaxing, and truly unforgettable.

Whether you're exploring solo, enjoying a family getaway, or embarking on a group expedition, we're here to design a trip that's exclusively yours. The itineraries you see are just a starting point; consider them a canvas upon which we'll paint your ideal Asian Off The Beaten Track. We invite you to share your ideas, tell us your preferences, and let us know your budget. We'll meticulously customize an existing itinerary or craft a brand-new program from the ground up, adding or excluding elements until it's absolutely perfect for you.

Ready to start planning your dream Off The Beaten Track across Asia? Share your requirements with us today, and let's create memories that will last a lifetime.

Inclusion

Exclusion

Itinerary

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Day 1: - Vientiane – Fly to Phonsavan (Xieng Khouang).
Take the short flight to Xieng Khouang from Vientiane (air ticket is excluded from the tour cost). Upon arrival, you will be met at the airport and transferred to Phonsavan, meaning the "hills of paradise", the capital of the Xieng Khouang Province.In the afternoon, take an orientation tour around the town and have the option to visit the thought-provoking UXO Information Centre, run by British organisation MAG (Mines Advisory Group), which has been helping to clear Laos' unexploded ordnance since 1994.The evening is free to enjoy as you please.Meals: N/A.Accommodation: Hotel in Xieng Khouang.
Day 2: - Explore the Plain of Jars.
Today you will explore the 3 clusters of mysterious stone jars which make up the intriguing 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, from the Site 2 to 3, and the Site 1 at last. 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 3: - Phonsavan – Sam Neua.
Early breakfast at the hotel and then head to Sam Neua. The route is packed with dramatic beauty and often described as "a journey of a million turns". En route stop and visit Tham Piew Cave in Muang Kham District. Tham Piew is a vast cave that served as a shelter for the local community seeking refuge from the bombing campaigns that were designed to contain the Marxist Pathet Lao. It is a tangible reminder of an atrocity that took place during a secret war. You will also visit villages of Hmong and Khmu on the way, whose main income is from weaving. As traders employ villagers for production in almost each house there will be family members working on looms. Learn more about this traditional handcraft.Late in the afternoon, you'll arrive in Sam Neua, literally "northern swamp". This capital city of Houaphan Province is one of the country's least visited travel destinations by Western tourists. Spend the night in a simple guest house.Meals: Breakfast.Accommodation: Hotel in Sam Neua.
Day 4: - Sam Neua – Muang Hiam.
Following breakfast at the hotel, drive to Viengsay, a narrow valley peppered with spectacular limestone peaks and caves. Visit some of the impressive historically important, and well-preserved, caves. Firstly, stop at Kaysone Phomvihane, one of the Pathet Lao leaders who later became the first prime minister of Lao PDR. Then pay a visit to Prince Souphanouvong's cave. Known as the ‘The Red Prince", he lived with his family in one of the caves and as a nationalist fought against the French. After lunch, set off on the drive to Son Koua Village in Muang Hiam (formerly Viengthong), the gateway to the Nam Et-Phou Louey National Park.Meals: Breakfast.Accommodation: Hotel in Muang Hiam.
Day 5: - Night Safari in Nam Et National Park.
Deep in the northeast of Laos lies Nam Et-Phou Louey, home to some of the most remote wilderness in Southeast Asia. Due to the near inaccessibility of the park, wildlife is left relatively undisturbed and as a result, gaur, sambar deer and white-cheeked gibbon have been spotted in recent years.Today you will take part in the Nam Nern Night Safari that provides one of the few opportunities in Laos to view rare wildlife. This tour has been designed to create a direct link between conservation and tourism so that the money you pay has a positive impact on encouraging local people to protect endangered tigers and other wildlife.Start the adventure by boat upstream toward the park substation, along the way you will spot colorful bird life, the best in Indochina. On arrival, enjoy a lunch prepared by the village. Later, receive a briefing by park staff about the efforts to protect tigers and their prey. In the middle of the afternoon, travel a further upstream for the night safari. Your guide will explain how local people track deer and other wild species. The boats will continue upriver to the dinner site, a sandy, flat bank, where a dinner will be prepared for you around a campfire. After dark you will board your boat and float down river with the engines off. There is only one light per boat which is used deftly by the guide to avoid scaring any wildlife. If you are fortunate you may spot Sambar deer, otters, barking deer, various species of civets, Slow Loris, porcupine and owls (hogbadgers, Asian golden cat and wild dogs have also been seen).Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.Accommodation: A Simple Lao-Style Hut in Nam Et National Park.
Day 6: - Muang Hiam – Nong Khiaw.
Rise early this morning to explore the jungle. The local guide will take you on a walk around the jungle, teaching you the use of medicinal plants and explaining the history of the site, which was once a major settlement during the Secret War. Return to the main hut for breakfast and to pack up your kit in preparation for your boat journey back to the village at a relaxing pace with engines off, pointing out birds along the way.Continue by road to Nong Khiaw, arriving there around sunset. Today's journey (approximately 6 hours) is a long one through one of the most remote areas of Laos, but there is some wonderful scenery along the way.Meals: Breakfast.Accommodation: Hotel in Nong Khiaw.
Day 7: - Nong Khiaw – Muang Ngoy.
A small rustic town, Nong Khiaw's managed to escape the influx of tourism that nearby areas have seen, and visitors can still take in the sights while enjoying the sounds of birds singing and cicadas chirping.Enjoy breakfast overlooking the river as the mist hangs in the valley then head out with your guide to the village of Muang Ngoy, an isolated fishing village, to trek and kayak along the scenic Nam Ou River. Ride a traditional boat upstream on the Nam Ou River for 45 minutes. You will have opportunities to see buffaloes bathing in water, local people fishing and children swimming in the river. It is an idyllic location and surely gives you a sense of peaceful serenity.En route, stop at a small Khmu village of of Ban Sopkonh where you can learn about local people's way of life. Then trek through local farmland and rice paddies to the start of the jungle and discover the beautiful limestone Tad Mook Waterfall. Relax and enjoy a refreshing splash in this perfect setting where picnic lunch will be held.Return to the Nam Ou River to continue your journey by kayak. On the last section of the river paddle through some easy rapids on the approach to Nong Khiaw.Meals: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch.Accommodation: Hotel in Nong Khiaw.
Day 8: - Nong Khiaw – Luang Prabang – Departure.
After breakfast, enjoy the scenic ride from Nong Khiaw back to Luang Prabang, where your journey ends.Depending on flight schedules, it may be necessary to book a day-use hotel/ another overnight stay or excursions in Luang Prabang (at additional charge).Meals: Breakfast.Accommodation: N/A.

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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The above price is based on a private tour (Group of 2). It's more reasonable withbigger group size

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