Upon arrival at Vientiane International Airport, you will be greeted by your Impress Travel guide and transferred to your hotel for check-in. After a short rest, begin your first exploration of the Lao capital with an afternoon city tour. Visit Wat Sisaket, the oldest surviving temple, famous for its cloister walls filled with thousands of Buddha images. Continue to Wat Prakeo, once the royal temple, now housing an impressive collection of Buddhist sculptures. Admire the golden beauty of That Luang Stupa, Laos’ most sacred monument and a proud national symbol. Finish the day at the striking Patuxay Monument, often compared to the Arc de Triomphe, where you can enjoy panoramic views across the city.

Overnight in Vientiane.

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for a short morning flight to Xieng Khouang, a remote province best known for its mysterious Plain of Jars. On arrival in Phonsavan, check in at your hotel and take some time to refresh after the journey. The afternoon is left free at leisure, allowing you to relax and settle into the slower pace of northern Laos. You may choose to wander through the quiet streets of town, where colourful markets and small cafés give an authentic glimpse of local life. For those interested, optional visits can be arranged to nearby villages or war memorial sites, offering further context to the region’s rich yet turbulent history. This gentle start provides the perfect prelude to tomorrow’s exploration of one of Asia’s most intriguing archaeological landscapes.

Overnight in Xieng Khouang.

Today is dedicated to exploring the enigmatic Plain of Jars, one of Southeast Asia’s most intriguing archaeological sites. Scattered across the landscape are hundreds of massive stone jars, whose origins and purpose remain a mystery to this day. Visit the three main areas – Sites 1, 2 and 3 – each offering a different perspective on this ancient wonder, set against a backdrop of rolling hills and rural scenery. Continue to Muang Khoun, the former royal capital, where remnants of old stupas and temples tell stories of a once-flourishing kingdom. Along the way, stop at traditional Hmong and Tai Dam villages to learn about the unique customs and daily life of these ethnic minorities.

Overnight in Xieng Khouang.

After breakfast, depart Xieng Khouang for a full-day scenic drive to Luang Prabang (approx. 300 km – 6 to 7 hours). The journey takes you through dramatic mountain landscapes, winding roads, and picturesque valleys, offering countless opportunities to admire and photograph the natural beauty of northern Laos. Along the way, stop at Thampra Buddha Cave, home to centuries-old Buddha images hidden deep within limestone formations. Continue your drive with visits to remote ethnic minority villages, where Hmong and Khmu communities maintain their traditional way of life. These encounters provide a rare glimpse into the cultural diversity of the region. Arrive in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Luang Prabang in the late afternoon and check into your hotel.

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Today, discover the cultural heart of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage town. Begin with a visit to the National Museum, formerly the Royal Palace, where fine artefacts, royal treasures and French–Lao architecture provide insight into the country’s history. Continue to Wat Visoun, the city’s oldest temple, known for its distinctive stupa and serene atmosphere, followed by Wat Mai, richly decorated with golden reliefs. Admire the splendour of Wat Xieng Thong, the most revered temple in Luang Prabang, with its sweeping roofs and intricate mosaics. In the late afternoon, climb Mount Phousi for panoramic sunset views over the Mekong River and surrounding mountains. Conclude the day wandering through the lively night market, filled with handicrafts and local delicacies.

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

After breakfast, embark on a leisurely boat trip along the legendary Mekong River, passing tranquil scenery and rustic riverside villages. Your journey leads to the sacred Pak Ou Caves, where thousands of Buddha images of all shapes and sizes have been placed by pilgrims over the centuries – a truly spiritual sight. On the return, stop at Ban Xang Hai, a village famous for its traditional rice wine distillation, and enjoy a taste of this local speciality. Continue to nearby craft villages, where artisans practise age-old skills such as weaving and paper-making. This day offers a perfect balance of nature, culture, and local encounters before returning to town.

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

After breakfast, depart Luang Prabang for a scenic drive to Nong Khiau (approx. 150 km – 3 to 4 hours). This charming riverside town is surrounded by dramatic limestone mountains and offers a peaceful atmosphere far from the bustle of the city. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and enjoy the natural setting. In the afternoon, take a gentle trek to nearby ethnic minority villages, where you can experience the warm hospitality of local communities and learn about their traditional lifestyles. Later, enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the Nam Ou River, gliding between striking cliffs and lush green forests – one of the most beautiful landscapes in northern Laos.

Overnight in Nong Khiau.

This morning, embark on a scenic boat trip along the Nam Ou River to reach Muang Ngoy, a picturesque riverside village accessible only by boat. Here, discover traditional fishing communities and observe the simple rhythms of daily life surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs and lush landscapes. Take time to stroll through the village, interact with locals, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere before returning to Nong Khiau. In the afternoon, travel back by road to Luang Prabang (approx. 3–4 hours). The evening is free for you to relax at your hotel, explore the riverside cafés, or revisit the lively night market at your own pace.

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

After breakfast, set off on an excursion to the spectacular Kuang Si Waterfalls, located about 30 km from Luang Prabang. En route, stop at traditional Hmong and Khmu villages, where you can learn about the customs and daily life of these ethnic minority communities. On arrival at the falls, enjoy time to walk along shaded forest trails and admire the turquoise cascades tumbling into natural pools. Take a refreshing swim, relax by the water’s edge, or explore the nearby Bear Rescue Centre, which protects endangered Asiatic black bears. Return to Luang Prabang in the late afternoon, with the evening free to relax or explore the town at your leisure.

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your morning flight from Luang Prabang to Pakse, the gateway to southern Laos. Upon arrival, drive into the lush Bolaven Plateau, a fertile highland region renowned for its cool climate, cascading waterfalls, and rich coffee-growing tradition. Visit the dramatic Tad Fane Waterfall, plunging over 100 metres into a deep gorge, followed by the picturesque Tad Yuang Waterfall, set amidst verdant jungle. Continue to explore local coffee and tea plantations, where you can learn about the cultivation process and taste some of Laos’ finest brews. Along the way, stop at small ethnic minority villages, gaining insight into their unique customs and way of life.

Overnight in Pakse.

After breakfast, depart Pakse and drive south to Champasak, once a royal capital of southern Laos. Here, explore the magnificent Wat Phou Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most important Khmer sanctuaries outside Cambodia. Wander through the ancient ruins, set dramatically against the backdrop of Mount Phou Kao, and admire the intricate carvings that reflect the spiritual and artistic grandeur of a bygone era. In the afternoon, cross the Mekong River by boat to reach the tranquil Don Daeng Island. Check in at a charming riverside lodge and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure – take a bicycle ride through the island’s villages, stroll along sandy riverbanks, or simply relax in this peaceful setting.

Overnight on Don Daeng Island.

After breakfast, leave Don Daeng and continue south into the enchanting region of Si Phan Don, known as the “4,000 Islands”. Board a local boat to reach Don Khone Island, one of the most scenic and historically rich islands in the area. Spend the day exploring by bicycle, riding along quiet paths shaded by palm trees and traditional wooden houses. Discover remnants of the French colonial era, including the old railway bridge, which recalls the island’s past as a trading post. Visit the spectacular Liphi Waterfall (also called “The Corridor of the Devil”), where torrents of water cascade over jagged rocks. This blend of history, nature, and local life makes Don Khone a true highlight of southern Laos.

Overnight on Don Khone Island.

This morning, embark on a boat trip along the Mekong River, gliding through the serene waterways of the 4,000 Islands. With a bit of luck and in the right season, you may spot the rare Irrawaddy freshwater dolphins, a truly memorable wildlife encounter. Continue by boat and vehicle to the mighty Khone Phapheng Waterfall, the largest cascade in Southeast Asia, often referred to as the “Niagara of the East”. Marvel at the sheer power of the rushing water as it thunders over a wide stretch of rock, creating a dramatic natural spectacle. In the late afternoon, return to Don Khone Island, where you can relax at your lodge and enjoy the peaceful riverside atmosphere.

Overnight on Don Khone Island.

After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely morning on Don Khone Island before transferring back to Pakse Airport for your onward flight.

Your 14-day journey through Laos with Impress Travel comes to a close, but the memories of golden temples, tranquil rivers, dramatic waterfalls, and warm local encounters will stay with you forever.

Journey’s End – with memories to treasure.