Nature and ethnic minorities of Laos

Day 1: Arrival In Vientiane ( , , )

Arrival in Vientiane, make your way to your accommodation in Vientiane. Accommodation: hotel in Vientiane Note: Check-in at the hotel from 14:00 Airport pick up and pre-trip room can be provided as a supplement Customer service available to contact if needed for information.

Day 2: Vientaine – Vang Vieng (B, ,)

Meeting point with the tour guide at the hotel lobby at 8:00am. You will spend this day discovering Vientiane, the capital of Laos, has been deeply scarred by French colonisation, but, at the same time, has managed to preserve, loud and clear, its identity. Today you will explore the city's major points of interest, breathing in the preponderant European influence, which at times blurs until it disappears among temples and other buildings with a distinctly Oriental style; - The Vat Sisaket temple: despite the strong Siamese influence, this complex has a unique architectural style. Thanks to its Thai origin, it was spared from destruction. Today, it is the largest and best preserved temple in the capital; - The Vat PhraKeo Temple: built in 1565 to house the renowned Emerald Buddha, it was later rebuilt in 1942, identical to the original, in a lovely garden. Inside, finely carved panels and elegant colonnades can be admired, protected by the sloping roof typical of the style of northern Thailand and Laos itself; - The Pha That Louang cloister: it was built around an imposing stupa saved from destruction during the looting by the Siamese army, but damaged by Ho raiders in 1873. Renovated by the French in 1930, it is still a symbol of the nation and a masterpiece of Laotian architecture, this structure representing both a religious and a royal symbol; - The Patuxay Triumphal Arch, from the top of which you can admire breathtaking views of Vientiane; In the afternoon, transfer by private car to Vang Vieng, arriving mid-afternoon. You will climb up to the viewpoint and enjoy incredible sunset views of Vang Vieng's karst rock formations. After a short climb, it will be time to sit back and watch the changing colors in the sky as the sun sets. This is an ancient, scenic and breathtaking landscape, far removed from the hustle and bustle of the city below. As the sun sets, the local guide will lead you back from the viewpoint to enjoy the rest of the evening in charming Vang Vieng. Meal included: Breakfast Accommodation: Hotel in Vang Vieng Distance: Vientiane - Vang Vieng: 130 kilometres - 1.5 hours Distance and duration of the hike: 0.6km - 30mins including ascent Elevation gain: +131m

Day 3: Vang Vieng – Khmu Village (B,L,)

Meeting point with the tour guide at the hotel lobby at 9:00am. Head out of town by tuk-tuk and start a leisurely journey down the Nam Song River, floating alongside the stunning karst limestone formations for which Vang Vieng is so famous. Arrive shortly after in a local riverside village where you will spend the day seeing how the Khmu ethnic group live. To begin, you will visit one of the elderly villagers who works as a blacksmith and who uses techniques that have been passed down through the generations. Watch and learn how he makes knives to earn an income, but make sure to pay attention as it will be your turn next! Then, continue to the home of one of the Khmu families where you will be invited to join them for a typical Khmu lunch in their house or garden. Learn about their culture and the animistic traditions that are practiced not only by the Khmu but also by many of the other ethnic minorities in Laos. After spending some time chatting with the family, move on to learn how they make the local rice wine, known in Lao as "Lao Hai". Later in the afternoon, follow your guide through the rice paddies to visit a cave on the other side of the river, passing farmers working in their fields. On the way, take a break in one of the local rice-farm huts and try some of the rice wine that you learned how to make earlier, while discussing in more detail the importance of agriculture in Laos. Once back in the village, say goodbye to the friendly locals and head back to Vang Vieng after your full day of cultural immersion. Meals included: breakfast, lunch Accommodation: Hotel in Vang Vieng Distance of the transfer (one way): Approximately 15 kilometers - 30 minutes Duration of the full activity: approximately 7-8 hours (pick-up time 09:00 / drop-off time 16:30)

Day 4: Vang Vieng – Train To Luang Prabang (B,–,–)

In the morning, the driver will pick you up and transfer you to Vang Vieng station for the train to Luang Prabang. (Suggested train C98 ETD Vang Vieng at 08:26, ETA Luang Prabang at 09:16am, times are subject to change. The guide wont’ be in the train with the group). Meet your guide at the train station in Luang Prabang and start the visit. The city of Luang Prabang is one of the most beautiful cities in Southeast Asia, with its perfect location at the meeting point of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers and at the foot of a centuries-old mountain range. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site on 1995 and it is recognized for its well-preserved townscape that blends traditional Lao and European colonial architecture. During the city tour yow will visit its most iconic and culturally rich sites to learn about the city's history, architecture, and culture. You will begin at the Royal Palace, which now houses the National Museum, with a huge collection of precious objects that belonged to the royal family and a wide range of statuettes found in temples in the region. Here you can admire the Phrabang Buddha, considered the most sacred artefact in Laos and which gave the city its name. Continue with a stop at the ancient Heuan Chan House, a traditional house dating back more than 100 years. This building is located on the peninsula of the city of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995, and today it has been transformed into a museum, where you can learn about the special features of Laotian/French colonial architecture. You will then visit Vat Xieng Thong, the temple of the Royal City, a complex of shrines and sacred temples, displaying some of the most beautiful traditional Laotian art, and arguably the most beautiful site in Luang Prabang. In the afternoon, we will stop at the Weaving Craft Center at Ock Pop Tock. The Ock Pop Tok Craft Weaving Center is a must-visit destination if you are intrigued by local crafts. At the center you will be lucky enough to discover the secrets of fine and renowned local textiles. Afterwards, take time to enjoy the beautiful tropical garden that offers stunning views of the majestic Mekong River and mountains. Meals included: Breakfast Accommodation: In hotel Luang Prabang train station - city: 12km/30mins Vang Vieng train station - city: 5km/10mins Note: You will need to show your passport along with your train ticket when entering the station and again on the train. Keep your train ticket as you will also need to show it to exit the station. There will be an airport-style security check when entering the station – dangerous and flammable items will be confiscated. Please do not take spray cans of deodorant, spray shampoos, knives, alcohol, flammable mosquito sprays, etc

Day 5: Luang Prabang – Hike To Kuang Sy Waterfalls (B,–,–)

In the early morning, you will travel with your guide to the temple to see the Tak Bath ceremony. During the ceremony, devoted residents of Luang Prabang kneel on the sidewalk, bearing food in their hands, which they offer to the monks as they walk by clad in their saffron-orange robes. Be drawn into this culturally significant moment, as it takes place in a peaceful and respectful manner, with no words exchanged between the monks and the inhabitants making the offerings. After this humbling experience, your guide will take you to a local market, a very animated place to be in the morning, to say the least. After this, you can return to your hotel for your breakfast at the hotel. Duration: Around 2h 30min Notes: Guests will travel to see Tak Bat ceremony from around 05:30 to 06:30 As a guest attending this tradition, you are recommended not to wear revealing clothing. Please do not cross the monk’s path and take photos from a distance to show your respect. Please also maintain a quiet atmosphere. After a drive from Luang Prabang to Ban Nong Heo Village, you will have some time to discover the charming Khmu village, with its traditional houses, water buffaloes and ducks wandering freely around, as well as farmers and blacksmiths going about their daily tasks. Then your local guide will take you for quite an easy hike in the countryside, passing through hill forests and plantations, with nice viewpoints on the way. You can even ask your guide to pick some fresh sugar cane directly from the field to taste the refreshing juice! After a walk in the beautiful natural environment, you will arrive at Ban Thapene, the village that lies at the entrance to the Kuang Sy Waterfalls. Distance and duration of the hike: 4 kilometers - 1h 30min Level: 1 Transportation: From Luang Prabang to Ban Nong Heo: 20 kilometers - 50 minutes In the afternoon you will visit a village famous for the production and art of Sa paper. Sa paper is a traditional handmade paper in Laos using the bark of the mulberry tree, known locally as “sa.” This centuries-old technique, still practiced in some villages near Luang Prabang, reflects the deep connection between Lao culture and sustainable natural resources. Return to hotel. Meals included: Breakfast Accommodation: Hotel in Luang Prabang

Day 6: Luang Prabang – Full Immersion At The Pak Ou Village (B,L, )

Your day begins with a drive through the Luang Prabang countryside, arriving at a charming village, Ban Muang Keo, where you'll delve into the art of traditional flower arrangement. Learn the techniques and symbolism behind creating beautiful floral offerings to the monk, a significant part of Lao culture. Next, visit a serene local temple, immersing yourself in the spiritual atmosphere and receiving a monk blessing. Continue your cultural immersion with a visit to a village, where you can interact with friendly locals and get a glimpse into their daily life. Enjoy a delightful aperitif on a picturesque beach, savoring local flavors while taking in the tranquil beauty of the Mekong River. Afterward, indulge in a delicious lunch featuring traditional Lao cuisine, followed by a cup of locally grown coffee. Finally, you will take a 30 minutes easy hike in the forest, that would be the perfect occasion to reach the caves by a secret and quite unique entrance. Once at the caves, marvel at the thousands of Buddha statues nestled within these two caverns and learn about the history and religious significance of this remarkable site. Reflect on your day's cultural encounters before enjoying a leisurely boat trip back to Luang Prabang, taking in the beauty of the Mekong River and its surroundings as you gently cruise downstream (boat cruise approximately 2 hours). Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, coffee/tea, soft drink/beer, snacks Accommodation: Hotel in Luang Prabang Duration: Approximately 7 hours Distances: Luang Prabang – Ban Pak Ou: 30 kilometers – 1 hour by car Pak Ou Caves – Luang Prabang: 30 kilometers – 2 hours by boat

Day 7: Luang Prabang – Train To Oudomxay – Namkat Yolapa (B, , )

Around 8:30am our driver (no guide) will pick you up from your hotel and then transfer you to the railway station. You will take the train from Luang Prabang to Oudomxay (suggested train D88 ETD Luang Prabang at 09:57 ETA Oudomxay at 10:41). Upon arrival, take a deep breath of fresh air and feel yourself start to relax in the peaceful natural environment. Opened in 2016, Namkat Yorla Pa occupies the protected forestry area along the Nam Kat River. Situated in Oudomxay province in Northeastern Laos, the resort is one of the most popular eco-tourism destinations in Laos. Free afternoon and evening at the lodge. Possible to book activities on spot. Meals included: Breakfast Accommodation: Namkat Yolapa Notes: the room will be available for check-in from 14.00 hrs. Luang Prabang train station - city: 12km/30mins Oudomxay train station - Nam Kat yolapa: 20km/40mins Note: You will need to show your passport along with your train ticket when entering the station and again on the train. Keep your train ticket as you will also need to show it to exit the station. There will be an airport-style security check when entering the station – dangerous and flammable items will be confiscated. Please do not take spray cans of deodorant, spray shampoos, knives, alcohol, flammable mosquito sprays, etc.

Day 8: Muang La – Meeting With Ethnic Groups In The Muang La Region (B,L, )

Today, meeting with your local guide and you’ll set off to visit an Ikhos village as well as a Hmong village; two of the many ethnic groups in Laos. Your route climbs to 1,000 meters above sea level and offers some magnificent views of the stunning mountain scenery. Your first visit is a completely isolated Ikhos village; this ethnic group originates from Tibet and the Yunnan Province in China. You can learn about the daily life of the village and how the villagers still follow customs passed down through the centuries. Enjoy your picnic lunch taking in the amazing surroundings. After lunch, an optional short walk will take you to an abandoned Hmong village with a stunning 360° panorama. You’ll then continue on to visit a functioning Hmong village - this ethnic group originates from the high plains of Tibet and you’ll learn about their way of life; the importance of their livestock (pigs, buffaloes, etc.) and the care that they give to their animals. You’ll return to The Resort at the end of the day. Meals included: breakfast, lunch Accommodation: Namkat Yolapa Distance and duration of the short walk: 2 kilometers - 20 minutes Level: 0 Local English speaking guide in Muang La

Day 9: Namkat – Half Day Jungle Walk – Oudomxay – Train To Luang Prabang (B, , )

The jungle activity will begin with a journey along narrow, winding roads through the thick forests to the start of the small jungle trail. Upon arrival at the start of the jungle trail, you will continue into the forest and hike to the waterfall, which includes walking along small paths and crossing narrow hanging bridges. When you arrive at the waterfall you will be able to have a rest or bathe in the fresh, cool waters. Leaving the waterfalls, you will walk back along another trail to end your activity in a complete loop before continuing back to the resort. Active level: 0 Distance and duration: Using the resort car for the first part - 2 hours (5km/15min by car + 2km/2h walking + 5km/15min by car) In the afternoon, your driver will pick you up and transfer you to Oudomxay station for the train from Luang Prabang (D87 departure scheduled for 14:00), to Luang Phrabang (arrival scheduled for around 14:45) (times are subject to change). You will be picked up by your driver at the train station and transferred to the hotel for check-in. Meals included: Breakfast Accommodation: Hotel in Luang Prabang Luang Prabang train station - city: 12km/30mins Oudomxay train station - Nam Kat yolapa: 20km/40mins Note: You will need to show your passport along with your train ticket when entering the station and again on the train. Keep your train ticket as you will also need to show it to exit the station. There will be an airport-style security check when entering the station – dangerous and flammable items will be confiscated. Please do not take spray cans of deodorant, spray shampoos, knives, alcohol, flammable mosquito sprays, etc.

Day 10: Luang Prabang Departure (B, , )

Proceed to check-out by 12:00 and make your way to the airport for your return flight. Airport transfer can be arranged at a supplement. Meals included: Breakfast