Active family tour of Laos
A wonderfully fun trip through Laos, where cultural immersion, natural wonders, and scenic beauty intertwine, from the spiritual dawn ceremony in Luang Prabang to the mesmerizing sunset over the Mekong in Vientiane.
Embark on an extraordinary adventure, commencing with a profound cultural immersion in Luang Prabang. Witness the spiritual dawn ceremony, a serene ritual where monks collect alms, setting the spiritual tone for the journey. Continue the exploration at the Elephant Village Camp, engaging in a unique Mahout experience and cooling off at the invigorating Tad Sae Waterfall.
The adventure takes a scenic turn as you cycle to Kuangsi Waterfall. En route, make cultural stops at the Talad Phosi market and the Hmong hill-tribe village of Ban Na Oune. Explore the Khmu minority village, Ban Tha Pane, and make a delightful detour to a butterfly garden, enriching the journey with cultural encounters and natural wonders.
An express train journey to Vang Vieng. A leisurely boat ride along the Namsong River awaits, providing a tranquil passage through scenic landscapes. In Vang Vieng, delve into the mysteries of Tham Chang Cave and unwind at the Blue Lagoon, surrounded by pristine natural beauty. The journey continues as you head to Vientiane, the capital city. Upon arrival in Vientiane, explore its city highlights. Visit Wat Si Muang, renowned for its supernatural aura, and the fascinating Buddha Park, The adventure concludes, savour free time in Vientiane before your departure.
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The itinerary…
Day 1: Depart for your flight to Laos
Time to fly for your family adventure is waiting.
Day 2: Arrive in Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang
Arrival in Luang Prabang, you will be met by our guide and transferred to your hotel Villa Chitdara for four nights. Rest and recoup from the journey.
Day 3: Culture and adventure
Luang Prabang
Embark on a day of cultural immersion and scenic exploration in Luang Prabang. Commencing with the spiritual dawn ceremony where monks collect alms, the morning unfolds with a visit to the bustling Morning Market and a picturesque cruise upstream on the Mekong River. Discover the mysterious Pak Ou Caves and Ban Xang Hai Village, known for its traditional Lao wine production. After a self-paced lunch, delve into the city's heritage at the National Museum and iconic temples like Wat Mai and Wat Xieng Thong. Climbing Phousi Mount offers a captivating sunset view, concluding with a stroll through the enchanting Street Night Bazaar, adorned with handmade textiles by local artisans.
Day 4: Mahouts and waterfalls
Mekong River
Enjoy a hearty breakfast before a full-day adventure at the Elephant Village Camp in Luang Prabang. Enjoy an exhilarating bathing session with the elephants in the Nam Khan River, followed by a 2 km trek on the exclusive Trail of Falls. Enjoy a forest picnic lunch before trekking to Tad Sae Waterfall for relaxation or swimming. Conclude the day with a scenic boat trip back to the camp, observing local river activities. Relax with an overnight stay in Luang Prabang after this enriching experience.
Day 5: Cycle to Kuangsi
Waterfall, Luang Prabang
Cycling from Luang Prabang to the stunning Kuangsi Waterfall. Marvel at the waterfall's beauty within the preserved National Park, making en-route stops at the Talad Phosi market and Ban Na Oune village of the "Hmong" hill-tribe group. Explore the Khmu minority village, Ban Tha Pane, and make a charming detour to a butterfly garden for insect enthusiasts. Upon reaching Kuangsi Waterfall, indulge in the cool, crystal-clear waters, and take advantage of the serene surroundings for swimming.
Day 6: Boat in Nam Song River
Vang Vieng River View
After breakfast, it's free and easy until your guide and driver transfer you to train station to take express train to Vang Vieng. Arrival Vang Vieng, we will enjoy the leisurely boat along the Namsong River. Overnight in Vang Vieng at Thavisouk Island Hotel for the night.
Day 7: Visit caves, crystal clear waters and cultural experiences.
Vang Vieng
Explore the natural wonders of Vang Vieng with a visit to the significant Tham Chang Cave, which serves as a temporary abode for local farmers. Marvel at crystal-clear water flowing from the mountain into the river, surrounded by picturesque landscapes of villages and rice fields. The adventure continues at the famed Blue Lagoon, offering relaxation and swimming in its pristine waters, coupled with a visit to weaving villages. Following this, journey by road to the capital city, Vientiane, where you can check into Vientiane at Aaron Hotel for two nights, unwind, and reflect on the day's discoveries.
Day 8: Buddha and Mekong River
Mekong River
The day unfolds with a captivating exploration of Vientiane, beginning at Wat Si Muang, renowned for its supernatural aura. The journey continues to the enchanting Buddha Park, hosting over 200 religious sculptures created by a mysterious monk, offering insights into profound philosophical ideas. In the afternoon, delve into the city's cultural gems, from the ancient Wat Sisaket with its multitude of miniature Buddha statues to the historic Wat Prakeo, once the abode of the revered Emerald Buddha. Capture photographs at the iconic Patuxay Monument before heading to the revered That Luang Stupa. The day culminates with a mesmerizing sunset view over the Mekong River, providing a serene conclusion to the city tour. Retreat for an overnight stay in Vientiane, reflecting on the day's cultural immersion and scenic beauty.
Day 9: Vientiane – departure
After breakfast, you will be free at leisure until transferred to the airport by our guide for your departure flight.
Duration: 8 nights
Location: Laos holidays, East and Southeast Asia
Price: £1900pp
From £1,900 pp based on two people sharing, excluding international flights.
The trip includes all accommodation and activities specified above. Rooms and meals as below:
- 4 nights at Villa Chitdara Hotel 3*(Superior room) breakfast and lunch included where mentioned.
- 1 night at Thavisouk Island Hotel 3*(DBL room) breakfast included.
- 2 nights at Aaron Hotel 3*(Superior room) breakfast included.
Also includes
- Internal flights and all transfers.
- Entrance fees and activities where mentioned.
- Private guides where mentioned.
This trip excludes:
- Single Supplements.
- International flights to/from UK
- Any activities, meals or drinks not mentioned as included.
- Anything else e.g. park fees not mentioned as included.
Tailor this trip around your preferred dates, your budget, your ideas.
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When to go to Laos
A month-by-month guide of when to visit Laos
- Best
- Good
- Mixed
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
January
January is one of the driest months in Laos, with pleasant temperatures. Celebrate the Lao New Year, known as "Pi Mai Lao," with water festivals, parades, and traditional ceremonies. It's a joyous time to experience Lao culture.
February
Similar to January, February boasts comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
Visit the Pak Ou Caves near Luang Prabang, where locals gather to celebrate the annual Pak Ou Festival. It's a unique blend of spirituality and festivity.
March
Dry season continues with temperatures rising between 19°C and 32°C, offering pleasant weather.
Witness Boun Khoun Khao in Vientiane, a harvest festival celebrated with religious ceremonies and a traditional boat race.
April
April marks the onset of the hot season with temperatures between 23°C and 35°C River will be at an annual low.
May
May is the peak of the hot season with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 35°C. It can be quite warm.
Explore the Vat Phou Festival, held at the ancient temple of Vat Phou near Champasak, featuring traditional dances and religious rituals.
June
The wet season begins in June with temperatures between 25°C and 34°C. Expect occasional rain showers. Experience the Rocket Festival (Boun Bang Fai) in various locations, where locals launch homemade rockets to encourage rainfall.
July
The wet season continues, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 32°C. Be prepared for frequent rainfall.
August
Rainfall is at its peak in August, with temperatures between 24°C and 31°C.
Witness boat races and other festivities during the That Luang Festival in Vientiane, which celebrates the iconic That Luang Stupa.
September
The wet season lingers with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 31°C.
Attend the colourful Elephant Festival in Sayaboury, celebrating the province's deep connection with elephants.
October
The rainy season starts to subside, with temperatures between 23°C and 31°C. This is a great time to visit as it is less crowded and the lush landscapes are at their best.
November
November marks the start of the dry season, offering pleasant temperatures between 19°C and 30°C.
Witness the That Ing Hang Stupa Festival in Savannakhet, which includes almsgiving, temple fairs, and parades.
December
December offers cool and dry weather, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 27°C. Celebrate Christmas and the New Year with festive decorations and special events in tourist areas.
Speak to a Laos expert today
A detailed itinerary tailor-made just for you.
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Alistair
Managing Director