In the Heart of Laos
Between ancestral temples and ethnic villages, an odyssey at the rhythm of the Mekong in authentic Laos.
Duration
14 days
From
€1,605/pers.
Ideal seasons
Jan, Feb, Mar, Nov, Dec
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
budget
Travelers
Solo, With friends, Couple
The spirit of travel
Choosing Laos for your next vacation means discovering a country with lush landscapes, between remote countryside, villages, Buddhist temples and cities marked by history and remnants of war. Throughout your journey, you discover a peaceful pace of life and meet the inhabitants and different communities that populate the country. A famous regional saying sums up this sweetness of living: "Vietnam sows the rice, Cambodia watches it grow and Laos listens to it grow."
Over 14 days, this circuit takes you to the heart of Laos, from Vientiane to Luang Prabang, passing through Pakbeng, the Northern regions then Thakhek and Savannakhet in the South. The itinerary favors discovery off the beaten path, punctuated by encounters with different ethnic communities and discoveries of their activities and expertise.
You also navigate the Nam Ou River and the Mekong, cross landscapes dotted with karst formations and discover several villages along your route. Further south, the Khammouane region takes you to the Kong Lor caves, before continuing your journey towards Thakhek and Savannakhet.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Mekong Cruise
Your English-speaking guide picks you up at your hotel at 7am to accompany you to the Luang Prabang pier.
Around 8am, you board a public boat heading to Pakbeng. You thus begin your cruise on the Mekong, along the landscapes that line the river.
Around Oudomxay
After breakfast, you start the day with a visit to the local market, bustling with the comings and goings of the different communities in the region. You then have the opportunity to visit an elephant camp to learn more about the living conditions of these pachyderms and witness their daily bath in particular. (Optional activity)
You then head towards Oudomxay. Several stops are planned along the way to discover Khmu, Hmong and Lao Loum villages and meet the local cultural diversity. You have lunch at a local restaurant or, weather permitting, at the Kanyas restaurant in Oudomxay. Upon arrival, you discover Oudomxay, a town strongly marked by Chinese influence, both in its urban landscape and in its population and economy. You can reach the top of the mountain of Phou That, crowned with a stupa, to enjoy a panoramic view of the surroundings. A walk around the PMC (Productivity and Marketing Center) also allows you to discover various local products, including handcrafted textiles, massage oils and honey.
You then settle into your hotel. To end the day, your guide can offer you a moment of relaxation at the Red Cross center, which has a traditional herbal sauna and offers massages. Access is payable on site. (Optional)
Trekking through jungle, rice fields and Khmu villages
From Oudomxay
You are starting today a three-day hike through the jungle, rice fields and valleys. This immersion in the heart of Laos landscapes will also be an opportunity to meet the Khmu and other communities living in the villages of the region, as well as to discover the Phasingkham cave.
At 8am, you leave your accommodation with your guide and take the road to reach Ban Samakhixay, the starting point of this adventure.
Ban Samakhixay → Ban Tanongpor
For this first day of trekking, you progress through lush countryside and enjoy a picnic in the heart of nature. In the afternoon, you resume your walk and make a short stop at the Luang Cave before continuing to the village of Ban Thanongpor.
Upon arrival, you meet the local inhabitants and discover Khmu culture and local traditions. The evening unfolds with immersion in the daily life of your hosts: you participate in traditional games, help prepare dinner, feed the animals and share moments of exchange with the inhabitants.
Dinner and overnight stay with a local family to conclude this first day of trekking.
Meeting the Locals
After breakfast in your Khmu village, you resume your hike through a lush forest. At lunchtime, you enjoy another picnic in the heart of nature before continuing your walk. You then reach the village of Ban Phavie, where you settle in for the night. This new stay with a local family allows you to share moments with the local community and discover their daily life.
At the end of the day, you can try your hand at Kataw, a popular local game mixing football and volleyball.
On the banks of the Nam Ou
You begin this last day of hiking with breakfast before heading to the Houay Khai waterfalls. You take advantage of this stop to swim in their clear and refreshing waters.
You then return to Ban Phavie and resume your route towards Muang La. Lunch is taken along the way.
After these three days of hiking, you continue by car to Muang La, a small town surrounded by natural environment. You will find there in particular its hot springs, the Phasingkhma sanctuary and the local life that revolves around the Nam Phak.
You continue your journey by car towards Muang Khua, where you arrive in late afternoon. Situated on the banks of the Nam Ou River, the village is a peaceful stop on your itinerary. Around Muang Khua there are several villages inhabited by different communities, notably Akha, Khmu and Tai Dam. The locality is also a gateway to reach Dien Bien Phu, in Vietnam, or set off trekking towards Phongsaly.
After this day of travel, you settle into your guesthouse in Muang Khua. Dinner and overnight stay on site.
Nam Ou River Descent
After breakfast in Muang Khua, you board for a descent of the Nam Ou River Nam Ou River towards Muang Ngoi. During 3 to 4 hours of navigation, you travel along the river and make several stops in Hmong and Khmu riverside villages. Upstream of the Nam Ou dam, you leave your boat with your luggage and take a tuk-tuk for about 2 km to reach another vessel and continue your itinerary.
Upon arrival in Muang Ngoi, you discover the village surrounded by impressive karst massifs. Lunch is on your own.
The afternoon is also free to discover Muang Ngoi at your own pace, on foot or by bicycle, and leisurely explore the village and its surroundings.
Tham Kang Caves
You set off on a new hike towards the high hills. Along the way, you discover the Tham Kang caves, nestled in the heart of a karst landscape and which served as a refuge for inhabitants during the Indochina War.
You then continue your walk to the Khmu village of Ban Kioukhan, which you reach during the day and where you spend the night.
On the waters of the Mekong
You are heading out for a new hike towards the high hills. Along the way, you discover the Tham Kang caves, nestled in the heart of a karst landscape and which served as a refuge for inhabitants during the Indochina War.
You then continue your walk to the Khmu village of Ban Kioukhan, which you reach during the day and where you spend the night.
You then head towards Muang Ngoi on board a slow boat. As you navigate, you enjoy the landscapes bordering the river and contemplate the karst massifs characteristic of the region.
After lunch, you board the ferry heading to Nong Khiaw. An hour of navigation allows you to reach this new stage of your journey.
Stop in Ban Nam Yang, return to Luang Prabang
At 8am, you leave Nong Khiaw and head towards Ban Nam Yang. Upon arrival, you discover Ban Leu Handcrafts, a craft center offering many cotton products. You participate in a cotton hand-spinning workshop, an opportunity to discover the different stages of textile manufacturing and local craftsmanship.
This visit also allows you to discover a craft that contributes to the local economy and the promotion of traditional techniques.
Ban Nayang Neur → Luang Prabang
In the afternoon, you resume your journey towards Luang Prabang. Dinner is at your leisure. We recommend the Pha Khao Lao restaurant, where you can discover local flavors and in particular culinary specialties of Luang Prabang.
Vientiane Visit
The evening before, you discover the culinary specialties of the Pha Khao Lao restaurant, which offers Lao-Thai cuisine in a calm and intimate setting. At dawn, a vehicle picks you up and takes you to Luang Prabang airport, where you take a domestic flight to Vientiane, the capital of Laos. Upon arrival, you are welcomed by your local host. A keen expert on Vientiane, they accompany you through the city according to your wishes and introduce you to places they enjoy, while encouraging meetings with local residents. This discovery unfolds throughout the day, outside of a predefined tourist itinerary. Lunch on your own: your host recommends restaurants based on your preferences.
Your companion is not a tourism professional, but a person who has been living in Vientiane for many years, whether they are native, naturalized, expatriate or foreign. Their experience of the city and their attachment to the capital are at the heart of this encounter. You then return to your hotel to settle in. The evening is free. You can enjoy the sunset over the Mekong, stroll through the night market or take a walk in Chao Anouvong park, a meeting place appreciated by local residents.
On the road to the South of the country
Today, you head towards southern Laos. Your guide meets you at 7:30 AM to begin this new stage of your journey.
Along the way, you make a first stop in Paksane to discover the temples of Wat Phabath and Wat Phonsane. You then continue towards Pak Kading, in the heart of an environment marked by the Nam Kading River, a wooded valley, high hills and limestone formations. Free lunch en route.
You arrive at the Kong Lor Village and its caves in early afternoon and settle into your guesthouse. You then set off in a canoe to explore Kong Lor Cave, following the underground Hinboun River, by the light of torches.
Inside, you discover a vast cavity whose ceiling reaches up to 100 meters high in places, punctuated by sandbars and rock formations.
From Konglor to Thakhek
After breakfast, you head towards Thakhek, passing through Lak Sao and Thalang. Before reaching Thakhek, you stop to observe the region's landscapes, characterized by their karst cliffs and numerous caves. You then continue to the Tham Pa Fa cave, located 15 km from the city. Considered a sacred site of Buddhism in Laos, it houses approximately 200 Buddha statues.
Upon arrival in Thakhek, you check into your hotel before enjoying a free evening. You can stroll through the city, admire its well-preserved colonial buildings and enjoy its peaceful atmosphere.
Free dinner and night in Thakhek. On the banks of the Mekong, we recommend the Smile Boat restaurant.
All to Savannakhet
After breakfast, you head towards Savannakhet, taking a route through the countryside that runs along the Mekong. The journey is relatively long, but allows you to enjoy the landscapes that accompany your progress southward.
Lunch is free en route or upon your arrival in Savannakhet. About 6 km from Thakhek, you make a stop at the Sikhottabong stupa, located on the banks of the Mekong. Restored in the 16th century, this temple is an important Buddhist pilgrimage site and hosts a festival each February. One of its halls houses an impressive statue of the seated Buddha, built by King Anouvong.
Near Savannakhet, you then discover the pagoda That Hing Hang, another important Buddhist site. Built more than 450 years ago, it is said to contain Buddha's relics. The end of the day is free to discover Savannakhet at your own pace. You can stroll along the banks of the Mekong, explore the old quarter and head to the main square while enjoying the sunset.
For the evening, you can visit the Sooksavan Cafe and Bistro, which offers Thai cuisine and Lao desserts, then continue the evening with a Beerlao at the establishment's bar, facing the Mekong.
Goodbye Laos, hello Vietnam
After your breakfast, you head towards the Lao Bao border crossing, between Laos and Vietnam. This stage marks the end of your journey in Laosand the beginning of a new itinerary in Vietnam.
It is also possible to continue your journey to Hué. (Additional transfer.)
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- Laos residence visa (31 - French passports - at 43 USD/person)
- Provide a passport-sized photo, a valid passport for at least 6 months
- Domestic and international flights as well as taxes
- Drinks, tips, personal expenses
- Travel Insurance
- All services and meals not clearly indicated
- Banking fees
Included
- Double/Twin room accommodation in selected hotels
- Transport by minivan as mentioned or by tuk tuk
- Private or public cruises as indicated
- The activities mentioned in the program
- Meals as follows: (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner)
- Experienced English-speaking guide, unless otherwise stated
- Trekking fees and other visits included
- Permissions and Local Taxes
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 40 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
- Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
- Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below concerns travelers who are nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland, and Canada traveling to Laos for a tourist stay. Entry rules may change, so we recommend verifying this information with the official authorities before your departure.
Passport
To enter Laos, your passport must be valid for a minimum of six months after your entry date into the country and must contain at least two blank pages for immigration stamps and visa affixing.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn, or altered pages).
Visa
Unlike some Southeast Asian destinations, Laos does not offer visa exemptions for nationals of the European Economic Area, Switzerland, and Canada for tourist stays. A visa is therefore mandatory and can be obtained through several methods.
Visa on Arrival: available at most international entry points (airports in Vientiane, Luang Prabang, Pakse, as well as certain land border crossings). It allows stays of up to 30 days and is issued in exchange for payment of approximately 30 to 42 USD depending on nationality. A recent identity photograph is generally required.
e-Visa: it is also possible to submit an electronic visa application online before departure through the official portal of the Laotian authorities, for a tourist stay of up to 30 days.
Embassy Visa: the application can be submitted to the embassy or consulate of Laos in your country of residence before departure.
The authorities may also request:
an exit ticket from the country (return or onward flight),
proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay,
confirmation of an accommodation reservation.
Health and Vaccinations
No vaccinations are mandatory to enter Laos from the EEA, Switzerland, or Canada. However, certain vaccinations are strongly recommended by health authorities:
hepatitis A and hepatitis B,
typhoid,
rabies (depending on activities and areas visited),
Japanese encephalitis (for extended stays in rural areas).
A preventive antimalarial treatment may be recommended for certain regions, particularly rural and forested areas. Consult your doctor or a travel medicine center before departure.
Traveling with Children
Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay, as well as their own visa.
In some European countries, when a minor travels without one of their parents, an authorization to leave the country may be required according to the regulations of their country of residence.
Other Nationalities
Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Affected travelers should inquire at the embassy or consulate of Laos in their country of residence.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended to have assistance-repatriation and medical expense coverage abroad.
Your local agency encourages you to review the specific policy developed with our partners CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to an insurance plan, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The comprehensive insurance solution designed for a worry-free trip!
Choose the plan that best suits you:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer' Complémentaire Carte Bancaire
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to them.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these plans, the policy document detailing all coverage and claim declaration procedures is available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with claim declaration procedures. The participant must therefore keep this policy document with them throughout their trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
Yes, a tourist visa is required, obtainable on arrival at major entry points (Visa on Arrival, approximately 30-40 USD depending on the entry point) or online (e-visa). Valid for 30 days, extendable. A valid passport required for at least 6 months beyond entry, and two blank pages required.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a tailor-made quality trip, budget between €130 and €210 per day per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transport and activities. International flights (€800-1,200 return) are additional. Laos is a preserved and charming destination, often combined with Cambodia or Vietnam.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We tailor every itinerary to our travelers' profile. For families, we prioritize relaxed paces, family-friendly accommodations, fun and educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our English-speaking local guides know how to capture children's attention with age-appropriate anecdotes.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, budget and dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You adjust every detail together until you reach the perfect version. You confirm and depart with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your entire trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) guarantee which covers 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on site throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your adventure — Northern Luang Prabang
Ambassador for a gentle Laos, based in Vientiane
In Laos, you need to embrace slowing down. It's often when you take the time that the most beautiful encounters and moments reveal themselves.
— Lay
