Untouched Laos

The town of Viengxay has a fascinating recent history. During the Vietnam War, as US forces dropped millions of bombs on Laos in daily bombing raids, the people of this area constructed a ‘hidden city’ inside the caves of its limestone peaks where more than 20,000 people were able to survive. They built schools, hospitals and even a radio station all within the complex of caves. Take an audio tour around, which helps to explain this history in interviews with local residents. Overnight in Viengxay.

Take a three-hour drive to Xamneau. Once checked-in at your hotel you’ll be given a tour of the town. See the Nam Sam River Promenade and the 16th century Buddhist statue at Wat Phoxaysanalam. Watch artisans at work at the nearby weaving houses, displaying quality cotton and silk textile goods. Overnight in Xamneua.

Leave early for the ethnic Khmu village of Ban Son Koua. Upon arrival you’ll be met by guides and boatmen who will take you on a short tour of the village. Here you will learn about the animist belief of appeasing the village spirit. The next journey is in a long-tail boat up the Nam Nern River, where you will be able to see wildlife and learn about rice cultivation. At the park substation have lunch and hear a talk by the park staff about their efforts to protect the tigers of the area. Overnight in Ban Son Koua.

Your guide will take you on a pre-breakfast jungle walk and teach you all about the medicinal plants of the area. They will also explain the history of the site, which was a settlement during the American bombing. Overnight in Nong Khiaw.

A half day tour hike to the high points of the area. Our local guide will take you up steep trails into the ancient high altitude forests which surround the town. Take some time at the top to see the splendid panoramic views. On clear days you can see as far as 20km away to the northern mountains of Muang Ngoi. Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Today, you will start your day with the holiest temple in the city, Wat Visoun. This temple was rebuilt in 1887 and its courtyard contains the distinctive Watermelon stupa, named after its resemblance to the fruit. Continue past 16th century Wat Aham to Wat That, which holds the ashes of King Sisavong Vong in its central stupa. This afternoon visit the National Museum, housed in the former Royal Palace; where you can learn about the history of Laos and gain insight into many of the sights and buildings which you’ll visit. Next, see Wat Mai, famed for its golden bas-relief and the dazzling golden façade of Wat Sensoukarahm. Overnight in Luang Prabang.

After breakfast, you will take an hour drive through beautiful landscapes, small villages and rice paddies to the famous Kuang Si Waterfalls.

An elegant three-tier waterfall, the main fall of Kuang Si is approximately 60 meters high and there are several turquoise blue pools in which to bathe . Once you’ve had your fill of the natural beauty around the falls you will next have the opportunity to visit the Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Center located near the falls. The center is home to around a dozen sun bears that were rescued from the grasps of poachers. The center attempts to rehabilitate the bears and raise awareness of the plight the endangered species face.

On the return journey back to Luang Prabang you will also have the chance to stop at two hill tribe villages to interact with locals and catch a glimpse into their daily lives. Depending on time, you may also have the opportunity to visit Ock Pop Tock, a shop that utilizes the skills of locals who produce goods using traditional weaving techniques.

Free to explore Luang Prabang before your transferring to airport for your flight home.