Destinations: Luang Prabang – Nong Khaiw – Nam Kat – Pakbeng.
Duration: 7 Days
Overview: This 7-day tour of northern Laos takes you through the enchanting city of Luang Prabang, where you’ll explore landmarks like the Royal Palace, Kuang Si Waterfall, and climb Mount Phousi. Journeying through scenic countryside, you’ll visit the charming villages of Nong Khiaw and Muang Ngoi, embark on a river cruise along the Mekong, and experience the cultural richness of local hill tribe communities. Your adventure includes a stay in the serene Nam Kat Yorlapa eco-resort and ends with a leisurely boat ride back to Luang Prabang.
Upon arrival, you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel. Luang Prabang has been recognized by UNESCO as the best-preserved city in Southeast Asia. Overnight in Luang Prabang.
After breakfast, you’ll head to the famous Kuang Si Waterfall, one of the most popular attractions in Laos. Located 29 km from Luang Prabang, the waterfall is accessible via a trail to the left of the main falls. Kuang Si Falls (Tat Kuang Si) is a favorite side trip for visitors to Luang Prabang. The waterfall begins in shallow pools atop a steep hillside, leading to the main cascade with a 60-meter (200 ft) drop. The water flows into a stunning turquoise blue pool before continuing downstream. Visitors can enjoy various activities, such as swimming in the cool water, swinging on ropes, and savoring snacks from the on-site eateries. You can also visit the nearby Bear Rescue Sanctuary.
In the afternoon, you’ll return to town to visit the Royal Palace Museum, which houses a range of interesting artifacts. Your walking tour will explore some of Luang Prabang’s hidden gems as you stroll down quiet back lanes leading to Wat Xiengthong. Along the way, you’ll stop at Wat Chomkhong, known for its decorative carvings. This area features a blend of beautiful old French Colonial buildings and traditional Lao houses, which you’ll have time to admire. You’ll also pass by the Fine Arts School, where you can see quality artwork on display. Next, you’ll visit Wat Visoun, also known as the “Watermelon Stupa” due to its unique shape. The tour continues with a visit to the excellent Arts and Ethnology Centre, providing further insight into the ethnic diversity and cultures of Laos.
Late in the afternoon, it’s time to stretch your legs with a climb up Mount Phousi, offering a spectacular sunset and panoramic views over Luang Prabang and the Mekong River. Finally, you’ll stroll through the night market, open from 17:00 to 22:00, where a wide variety of local textiles and ethnic handicrafts are available for purchase. Overnight in Luang Prabang.
After breakfast, you’ll head north to Nong Khiaw. Upon arrival, you’ll board a small long-tail motorboat on the Nam Ou River, heading upstream to Muang Ngoi, a picturesque little fishing village about an hour from Nong Khiaw. You’ll catch a glimpse of local life along the riverbanks, and back in the hillside town, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of limestone karst mountains and local life on both sides of the river at sunset. You’ll have a nice walk through the small, old village of Muang Ngoi before boarding the boat back to Nong Khiaw. If you wish, you’ll have the chance to do as the locals do and bathe in the Nam Ou. Overnight at Nong Khiaw.
In the early morning, you’ll visit Pha Som Nang viewpoint, an amazing spot to explore when you’re in Nong Khiaw. Escorted by our guide, you’ll trek up to the top of the mountain, where you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Nong Khiaw and the Nam Ou River. The trek lasts about 2 hours and 30 minutes.
After breakfast at your hotel, you’ll drive to Oudomxay, enjoying the most breathtaking scenic views of northern Laos’ mountain ranges along the way. Upon arrival in Oudomxay, you’ll take a short drive to Nam Kat Yorlapa, a protected forestry area along the Nam Kat River. Located in Oudomxay province in northeastern Laos, this area is one of the most beautiful and sought-after eco-tourism destinations in Laos and Southeast Asia.
You’ll experience the complete wonder of exotic beauty, ethnic culture, thrilling adventure, natural serenity, and the biodiversity of flora and fauna, all in one place. You can relax by the pool, ride a complimentary bicycle on the paved paths, explore the forest area at your leisure, or simply rest on the balcony of the restaurant, listening to the sounds of wildlife and watching the stream flow by. Dinner will be served in the restaurant, with these activities at your own expense. You’ll spend the night at Nam Kat Yorlapa.
After breakfast, you’ll depart to Pakbeng via Muangxay, the provincial capital of Oudomxay. On the way, you’ll have a chance to take a short tour of this little town, exploring the province’s landmark at Mount Phu That. Your journey will take approximately 2-4 hours, with stops to visit hill tribe villages such as Ban Pia Hoa Nam, a Hmong village where you’ll witness their local way of life.
Next, you’ll visit Ban Ngor, a Tai Leu pottery village. Ban Ngor offers a unique cultural experience with a long-standing history. Founded in 902, when a group of Tai Leu moved into the valley for its promise of good harvests and a warm climate, the village now consists of 135 families with a total of 682 inhabitants. You’ll continue your exploration with a visit to Ban Vangva, a Khmu village where you’ll observe their preserved culture.
You’ll arrive in Pakbeng by late afternoon and check in at the mountaintop resort, Le Grand Pakbeng. From here, you’ll be able to admire a 360-degree panoramic view of the Mekong River and surrounding mountain ranges, either from your room or the swimming pool terrace. Overnight in Pakbeng (Mekong Villa)
After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the boat pier to board a traditional boat for your journey downstream to Luang Prabang. The trip will take approximately 6 hours, and your lunch will be served on board. While cruising, you’ll have the chance to see water buffaloes, goats, and even elephants. The boat will slowly cruise down the Mekong River, passing many villages on both banks. Along the way, you’ll stop to visit local villages, including the Buddha cave at Pak Ou and the Lao rice wine village of Ban Xanghai. You’ll arrive in Luang Prabang by late afternoon and check in at your hotel. You’ll spend the night in Luang Prabang.
Your time will be your own until your private car and driver arrives to take you to the airport for your departure flight. End of services.
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