From North to South, this in-depth tour explores the wonders of Laos from its friendly people and intriguing spiritual culture to its diverse landscapes and natural wonders. Travelling beyond the touristy areas, you’ll discover a side of Laos untouched by the modern world.

Start your journey in the north at the Thai border where a two day journey down the Mekong begins. Floating down the world’s tenth longest river in a large wooden boat, you’ll discover the local rhythms of life along the river. Spend the night in the hillside town of Pakbeng and stop off at riverside villages to learn more about the local lifestyle.

Your boat journey ends in Luang Prabang, the spiritual capital of Laos. Dozens of temples fill the town and orange-robed monks wander about the tree-lined streets. Colonial buildings, colourful markets, and cascading waterfalls are all waiting to be explored in Luang Prabang.

Travel along mountain roads to the small town of Vang Vieng, situated on the banks of the Nam Song River and surrounded by limestone formations. Continue to Vientiane, whose laid-back pace is unlike any other capital city in the region.

Southern Laos is one of Asia’s hidden gems. Drive from Savanakhet to the Bolaven Plateau, an area of coffee plantations, local villages, and more towering waterfalls. The cool refreshing air of the highlands is relief from the hotter lowland areas.

The final stretch of the journey takes you to the Siphandon area, where the Mekong reaches its widest point in Laos and is dotted with thousands of small islands. The scenery is stunning as the water meanders along with rolling mountains in the background. The temple of Wat Phu is sure to leave a lasting impression, a 9th century building nestled amongst the hills of this tranquil area.

From north to south, each day of our ‘Laos in Depth’ tour shows you a different side of this magical country.

Depart from Houey Xay on the Thai border for a leisurely cruise down the Mekong River to Pakbeng. As you travel along the scenic river, make several stops to visit local villages that are scattered along the riverbanks for a taste of the rural life of the Lao people. Enjoy a riverside picnic before reaching Pakbeng in the early evening.

Overnight in Pakbeng.

Awake early to visit the morning market where traders from nearby villages come to buy and sell fresh produce and food. Then re-board the boat for the relaxing cruise down to Luang Prabang. Stop en route to see the thousands of Buddha statues at Pak Ou Caves and at a village known for making the country's best rice wine, called Lao Lao.

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Explore Laos' spiritual capital with a tour through the tree-lined streets and old buildings. Visit several temples including the resplendent Wat Xieng Thong, as well as delving in to the history of Laos with a visit to the National Museum. As the sun sets, cross the Mekong to Wat Chompet for fantastic twilight views.

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Travel southwest to the Kuang Si Waterfalls, stopping en-route to see the villages of the ethnic minority people. Once reaching the falls, enjoy a swim in the bathing pools where the cascading waters gather. On the return to Luang Prabang, visit local villages to watch the traditional Lao textiles and sa paper being made.

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Drive through spectacular mountain scenery to the town of Vang Vieng. This quaint town is nestled along the Nam Song River and framed by spectacular karst formations. Visit one of the areas numerous caves and enjoy a stroll along the riverfront, soaking in the quiet surroundings.

Overnight in Vang Vieng.

This morning, drive south to the capital city of Vientiane. Stop off at the Nam Ngum Lake whose crystal clear waters are sure to tempt you for a swim! After relaxing by the water and enjoying lunch, continue to Vientiane.

Overnight in Vientiane.

Explore the capital city today, with its mix of colonial buildings, ancient temples, and modern structures. From the tranquil Buddha-filled Wat Sisaket, to the slightly bizarre Patouxai monument, Vientiane is a city of hidden wonders. As the day comes to a close, tour the National Museum or opt for a relaxing foot massage instead!

Overnight in Vientiane.

This morning explore the Morning Market, hunting for souvenirs such as silk and cotton textiles, silver and gold jewelry, woodcarvings or other local crafts. Then set-off for Savannakhet, meaning 'city of paradise'. This quaint town has a laid-back atmosphere despite being situated close to the Thailand border.

Overnight in Savannakhet.

After breakfast, visit the town's Provincial Museum, the Dinosaur Museum and That Ing Hang temple. Continue the drive south to the Tad Lo waterfalls in the Bolaven Plateau. This area of cool highlands is known for growing delicious coffee and tea, and a stop at one of these plantations is a great opportunity to learn more about the growing and blending process.

Overnight in Tad Fane.

Visit the temple of Wat Phu, a pre-Angkorian temple which rises dramatically from the rice fields and sits in three tiered levels in the hills. Travel through the colonial buildings of Campassak and on to Ban Kiet Ngong for a fantastic elephant ride through the nearby forest. In the early evening, reach Khong Island in the Siphandon, or 4000 Islands, region.

Overnight in Don Khong.

This morning, travel by boat along the Mekong to the peaceful islands of Done Det and Done Khone. Visit local palm-fringed villages, the remnants of Laos' only railway, and the imposing Khone Phaphaeng waterfalls which are situated near the Cambodian border. Return to Pakse in time to explore its exotic night market.

Overnight in Pakse.

After breakfast, transfer either to the Thai border or to the airport for your onward flight.