Essence of Laos

Begin your exploration of Luang Prabang, one of Southeast Asia’s most atmospheric towns, beautifully situated where the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers meet beneath a backdrop of forested mountains.
Visit Vat Mai, an elegant 18th-century temple renowned for its distinctive multi-tiered roof and importance as a place of worship. Continue to the former Royal Palace, now home to the National Museum. Discover an impressive collection of royal treasures, religious artefacts and Buddha images, including the sacred Phrabang Buddha, from which the city takes its name. Next journey to Vat Xieng Thong, the Temple of the Golden City and one of Laos’ finest examples of traditional temple architecture. Its intricate decoration and graceful buildings offer a fascinating insight into the country’s spiritual and artistic heritage.
This afternoon, board a private boat on the Mekong River for the journey to the famous Pak Ou Caves. Cruise past steep limestone cliffs, forested hills and small riverside communities, gaining an insight into everyday life along the Mekong. On arrival, climb the steps to the caves, where thousands of Buddha images have been placed over centuries, making this one of the most revered Buddhist sites in the region.

Rise early this morning for one of Luang Prabang’s most distinctive cultural experiences – the Tak Bat alms-giving ceremony. Accompanied by your guide, travel to a temple where you can quietly observe local residents offering food to saffron-robed monks as they make their morning rounds. This centuries-old tradition takes place in silence and with great dignity, providing a memorable insight into the spiritual life of Luang Prabang.
Continue to the lively morning market, where local vendors gather to sell fresh produce, traditional foods and everyday goods.
Later, travel through the surrounding countryside to the magnificent Kuang Si Waterfalls. Cascading over layers of limestone, the falls form a series of striking turquoise pools surrounded by lush forest. Follow the pathways through the natural park to the upper pools and take time to admire the scenery or, conditions permitting, take a refreshing swim in the clear waters.

Today, experience Laos’ modern railway as you travel from Luang Prabang to the capital, Vientiane.
The journey provides a fascinating contrast to the traditional experiences of the previous days. The railway passes through the mountainous north, with much of the route travelling through tunnels before emerging into dramatic valleys, lush jungle and remote mountain farmland.
On arrival in Vientiane, you will be met by your driver and guide and transferred to your hotel.
Note: Passports and train tickets must be carried throughout the journey. Station security checks apply, and prohibited items may be confiscated. Train schedules can occasionally change at short notice.

Discover Vientiane, Laos’ relaxed capital, where French colonial influences sit alongside centuries-old Buddhist temples and traditional Lao architecture.
Visit Vat Sisaket, the city’s oldest surviving temple, noted for its distinctive Siamese-influenced architecture and thousands of small Buddha images. Continue to Vat Phra Keo, originally built to house the Emerald Buddha. Today, the temple is set within a peaceful garden and features beautifully carved wooden panels and elegant Lao-style architecture. Visit Pha That Luang, the great golden stupa and national symbol of Laos. This magnificent monument represents both the country’s Buddhist faith and its national sovereignty. Next travel to Patuxay, Vientiane’s impressive Victory Gate, inspired by the Arc de Triomphe. Climb to the upper level for panoramic views across the capital. Finish your sightseeing at Talat Sao, Vientiane’s morning market, where local handicrafts, textiles and everyday goods are displayed alongside imported products.

At the appropriate time, transfer by private vehicle to Vientiane Airport for your onward flight.
Your Laos journey comes to an end with memories of ancient temples, Mekong landscapes, colourful markets and the warm hospitality of this captivating country.

• 24/7 local operator support in Laos
• 5 nights' accommodation in carefully selected hotels
• 5 breakfasts
• 2 lunches
• Private air-conditioned transfers and transportation throughout
• English-speaking local guides and entrance fees for all included sightseeing
• Full-day Luang Prabang sightseeing and Pak Ou Caves excursion
• Private Mekong River boat cruise to Pak Ou Caves
• Tak Bat ceremony and local market experience
• Kuang Si Waterfalls excursion
• Train journey from Luang Prabang to Vientiane
• Half-day Vientiane sightseeing tour
• All sightseeing, excursions and cultural experiences as outlined in the itinerary
• Entrance fees to included sites
• Travel Notes - issued by Innovative Travel

• International airfares
• Optional tours and excursions
• Porterage
• Tipping/Gratuities (please refer to tour notes for a recommended guideline)
• Personal Expenses
• Hotel charges for minibar or any extra charges
• Visas (unless specified)
• Travel Insurance (compulsory)
• Any other services not clearly mentioned in the inclusions above