Laos: Off the Beaten Track

Fly from the UK to Laos’ laid-back capital.

Upon arrival on day 2, you will be met and transferred to spend 2 nights with breakfast included at Salana Boutique Hotel, a chic, timber-furnished retreat in the heart of Vientiane that blends contemporary Lao style with warm service, a rooftop sky bar, and a relaxing spa.

Day 3 is yours to explore the bustling city at your leisure. Stroll past French-colonial buildings and golden temples such as Wat Si Saket and Pha That Luang, browse the Ban Anou night market for street-food treats, or head out to the quirky Buddha Park. Or, simply relax by the pool to get ready for your big adventure!

This morning you will be collected and taken to Vientiane airport where you will catch a short flight to Phonsavan. On arrival you will be met and transferred to stay at Vansana Plain of Jars for 2 nights with breakfast included.

On day 5 it will be time to marvel at the mysterious, UNESCO-listed Plain of Jars, where thousands of ancient stones are scattered across the landscape. Afterwards, you will be taken back to the hotel for an afternoon at your leisure.

Continue by road on day 6 to the remote Nam Nern Night Safari Ecolodge, where a guided night boat trip offers the chance to spot rare wildlife under the stars. You will be here for 1 night with breakfast included.

Call 01273 923100 to start planning your holiday

This morning you will be met and transferred to a longtail boat to cruise through dramatic limestone scenery. Pass by jagged mountains and rural communities, stopping to enjoy a simple lunch along the way. You will then continue on to the quiet riverside village of Nong Khiaw, where you will head to the Mandala Ou Hotel for 2 nights with breakfast included. This rustic property provides comfortable rooms with beautiful views of the Ou River.

Day 8 is yours to spend at leisure. Hike to panoramic viewpoints, kayak or cycle along the river, or simply relax by the pool and watch the sunset glow on the jagged cliffs.

You will be met this morning for your transfer south to the UNESCO World Heritage town of Luang Prabang, where you will then proceed to check in for 3 nights with breakfast included at Maison Dalabua, set beside tranquil lily ponds. Enjoy settling in to your new surroundings this afternoon.

On day 10, you will get to spend a day at the turquoise Kuang Si Waterfalls, swim in its pools and visit the Asiatic Black Bear sanctuary.

Enjoy a free day on day 11 to wander ancient temples, cruise the Mekong, join a cooking class or learn rice farming skills.

Call 01273 923100 to start planning your holiday

Board the scenic train to Vang Vieng this morning, where on arrival you will be met and transferred to the elegant Riverside Boutique Resort for 2 nights with breakfast included.

On day 13 you will explore the countryside on a guided tour of Tham Pou Kham and Tham Chang caves, crossing rice paddies and swimming in cool natural pools before relaxing on your balcony with mountain views.

Return by train to Vientiane where on arrival into the station, you will be met and transferred to the airport to catch your flight south to Pakse. From there, you will cross the Mekong to charming La Folie Lodge, your base for 3 nights with breakfast included.

Spend 2 unhurried days discovering the tranquil 4,000 Islands by kayak or on foot, browsing Pakse’s lively market, hiking up to the Golden Buddha for sweeping views, or venturing to the Bolaven Plateau’s lush waterfalls.

On day 17, you will be transferred to Pakse airport for your flight back to the UK.

Want to head over to Cambodia before going home? Contact us to tailor this holiday to you.