Laos Discovery Journey – 14 Days

We start early with a visit to the iconic Wat Xieng Thong in the soft morning light, followed by an excursion to the turquoise pools of Kuang Si Waterfall and the nearby Bear Rescue Centre. Later, we explore the Royal Palace Museum for a glimpse into Laos’ royal past.

Rise early to observe the sacred ritual of Tak Bat, where monks collect alms in silence. After breakfast, we visit the Living Lands Organic Farm, learning about traditional rice cultivation. In the afternoon, we discover Laos’ ethnic diversity at the Traditional Arts & Ethnology Centre, then enjoy free time to climb Mount Phousi for sunset views.

We journey through winding mountain roads, passing ethnic villages and meeting the Hmong and Khmu people. In the afternoon, we reach the UNESCO-listed Plain of Jars, visiting the largest site where hundreds of ancient stone jars scatter across the landscape.

A sobering yet insightful morning visit takes us to MAG and UXO Lao, learning about Laos’ war history and unexploded ordnance clearance. Later, we explore jar sites 2 and 3, with scenic walks through forests and villages. In the evening, we may visit the Lone Buffalo Project, a youth development initiative.

Departing early, we stop at the war-ravaged town of Muang Khoun before continuing through limestone karsts and remote hamlets. At Ban Tha Bak, villagers ingeniously use old warplane fuel tanks as boats. By evening, we arrive in Hin Boun, a tranquil riverside village.

This morning, we explore the vast Kong Lor Cave, a 7km-long underground river system with towering caverns and dramatic stalagmites. On the far side, we stroll through a remote village before returning by boat. After lunch, we continue to Thakek, a charming riverside town opposite Thailand.

We hike through valleys, hidden caves, and lakes near Ban Nakhang Xang, with the option to swim in limestone caves. After a traditional Lao lunch, we visit the sacred Tham Pa Fa Cave, home to 229 bronze Buddhas. Free time in Thakek follows.

Heading south, we pause in Savannakhet to visit That Inhang Stupa before continuing to the cooler highlands of Tad Lo, arriving at our peaceful lodge by evening.

Today we explore the Bolaven Plateau, famous for its waterfalls and coffee plantations. We walk to the stunning Tad Fan Falls, taste fresh tea, and visit a coffee cooperative investing in education and clean water projects. Return to Tad Lo Lodge in the afternoon.

We travel south into Siphandon (4000 Islands), boarding a private boat to explore peaceful Mekong islands. A home-cooked lunch with a local family is followed by gentle cycling before reaching Don Khone Island to watch sunset over the river.

We visit the dramatic Liphi Waterfalls and the mighty Khone Phapheng Falls, Southeast Asia’s largest waterfall. After lunch, we head to Champasak, stopping at a traditional wood-carving village.

We rise early to witness sunrise at the UNESCO-listed Wat Phou, an ancient Khmer temple complex. The rest of the day is free to explore Champasak town, cycle around Don Daeng Island, or simply relax by the Mekong.

After breakfast, the tour concludes in Champasak. Complimentary airport transfers are included for those departing on group flights.