BEYOND THE MEKONG 6 DAYS & 5 NIGHTS
Day 1 : Houay Xai – Pakbeng
Houay Xai is situated on the Mekong river in the north of Laos on the Thai border. You can get to Houay Xai easily from northern Thailand. From here you board a river boat, relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery all the way down river to Pakbeng. There will be a stop along the way to visit a Kamu tribal village – Ban Houy Sae. The Kamu are an ethnic minority.
The boat arrives at Pakbeng before sunset, and you will stay overnight at Pakbeng Lodge.
Includes lunch which is served on the boat.
Day 2 : Pakbeng – Luang Prabang
Before breakfast visit the Pakbeng markets, and then after breakfast, board the boat for another scenic day cruising down the Mekong. We will stop and visit a Hmong tribal village – Ban Houay Sing. Then lunch on the boat, and continue on to the sacred and historical Pak Ou caves, where Lao people make offerings every year in April. There are two caves, upper and lower, containing 1,500 statues of Buddha. The boat arrives at the World Heritage City of Luang Prabang before sunset.
Transfer to the Lotus Hotel for overnight.
Day 3 : Luang Prabang – City Tour
Breakfast at your hotel, then continue your tour with a visit to Wat Xiengthong.
This wat further emphasizes the uniqueness of Luang Prabang, with its several roofs sweeping low to the ground, and its impressive classical tree of life.
After, visit the exhibition Hill Tribe Museum, and the Royal Palace where you will find a collection of gifts from around the world and other items of interest preserved from this world heritage town.
After lunch you are driven for about an hour to Kwangsi waterfall. On the way, stop and see the film ‘UXO’ about the 1964-1973 war in this region. Kwangsi waterfall is the best in south-east Asia, with butterflies, tropical plants and flowers, and a great spot for swimming.
Then back to town for relaxation.
Day 4 : Luang Prabang – rest day
You are free to explore around town on foot or bicycle. There are lovely sights to see, foods to eat, and great markets to visit. There is also the option of going elephant riding not far from town, or enjoying a Lao massage.
Day 5 : Luang Prabang – Vientiane
After breakfast, say goodbye to beautiful Luang Prabang and fly to the Laos capital – Vientiane. Here there is much to see including Wat Si Saket with thousands of Buddha images, Ho Pha Keo – a museum of Buddhist sculptures that was once the Royal Temple and housed the Emerald Buddha that now resides in Bangkok. Also visit Pha That Luang, a magnificent 3rd century golden stupa.
Overnight at Vientiane Plaza hotel.
Day 6 : Vientiane
Breakfast at the hotel. Depart for the airport.