Hidden Gems Of Laos

After breakfast, visit Wat Phou. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Wat Phou is a spectacular pre-Angkorian temple that sits among the rice fields and waterways of southern Laos. The temple was constructed in three levels: the bottom level is focused on the baray (water reservoir) and promenade, the second level features pavilions and galleries of carvings, and the top level is the sanctuary. This site served as the most important economic and political centre of the region and still is one of the Lao people’s most revered temples. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure. At sunset, participate in a unique traditional Lao ceremony known as the Baci with the local community on the island. The Baci is performed in celebration of important events such as weddings, births, or for welcoming guests, and is a means of expressing goodwill and good luck to others. After the ceremony, sit down and enjoy an authentic Laotian dinner. Overnight on Don Daeng

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the Pakse airport for flight to the Northern part, Luang Prabang. Upon arrival, you will be met by your local guide for transfer to the hotel to freshen up before stepping out for activities in the late afternoon. At the end of the day, climb the 328 steps to the top of Mount Phousi to enjoy a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding countryside. Take a leisurely walking to the evening hill tribe market to find plenty of local souvenirs to buy such as handicrafts and textiles. Overnight in Luang Prabang

Explore Luang Prabang with a knowledgeable local guide. Visit the highlights of this UNESCO World Heritage site and also learn about Laos’ rich, colorful culture. Kick off the Luang Prabang half day tour at the former Royal Palace, a centrally-located building that now serves as the National Museum. Venture through the corridors and see intriguing displays of historical relics and informative exhibits. The next visit is Wat Xieng Thong, one of the oldest and most revered temple in the country. The temple is situated on the tip of the city’s peninsula and is filled with ornate carvings and mosaics that have withstood the test of time. Wrap up the Luang Prabang half day tour with a better understanding of this charming, northern Laos city. The last stop is the Traditional Arts & Ethnology Centre to learn about the various ethnic groups in Laos. Accompanied by one of the two co-founders/directors of the Centre, explore the displays of colorful costumes and traditional tools used by the different races. There are fabulous explanations about the history and beliefs of each of the ethnic groups, a great eye-opener to the diversity of the Lao people. Afterwards, transfer to the home of Nithakhong Somsanith for a unique encounter. Learn about some almost forgotten traditional arts and explore the prince’s private collections of arts and items from the Old Court of Luang Prabang family. Overnight in Luang Prabang

For early-risers (05:30) there is a very special dawn visit to witness the monks leaving their pagodas to receive offerings of food from Luang Prabang residents. It is a beautiful, serene ceremony that highlights the spiritualism of the Lao people. Return to the hotel for breakfast. Afterwards, you will be driven through the Luang Prabang countryside to Kuang Si Waterfalls. Upon reaching Kuang Si Waterfall, enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings or explore the surrounding dense jungle on foot. For the adventurous, it is possible to walk to the top of the falls via a steep track where beautiful views await. These waterfalls cascade down a multilevel limestone formation creating a series of turquoise blue pools perfect for swimming on a hot day (if swimming, please dress modestly). On the way back, board a local long tail boat and cruise along the Mekong to Pha Tad Ke Botanical Garden. The garden is a regional research centre, which not only created the the first living collection of the flora of Laos, but also provides education to local schoolchildren and the general public about nature. Receive a short presentation about the gardens. Continue with a walk through the Ginger Garden and Ethno-botanic Garden, which acts as the site’s centrepiece. Follow the Limestone Walk, soaking in the amazing mountainous Mekong landscapes. Reaching the hunting lodge of the former royal family, stop for a quick lesson on how to craft a bamboo stick animal. Continue the Pha Tad Ke botanical garden walking tour through the Arboretum, Palm Garden and Bamboo Garden to the viewpoint overlooking the rice fields. Make a brief stop at the Mist House to learn more about the importance of biodiversity conservation. Finish the excursion with an optional orchid talk at Pha Tad Ke Nursery. Discover Lao traditional herbal medicinal teas through a testing session before heading back to Luang Prabang by boat. Overnight in Luang Prabang