Laos Classic Highlights – 7 Days / 6 Nights

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN VIENTIANE

Upon arrival at Vientiane Airport, our guide and driver will be waiting to accompany you to your hotel for check-in.

In the afternoon, explore the capital of Laos with the first stop at Wat Sisaket, the only temple left intact after the Siamese invasion in 1828 — one of the most beautiful temples in the capital.

Continue to Wat Phra Keo, a religious museum displaying a collection of both Lao and Khmer works of art. Nearby stands the Presidential Palace, a glimpse into the colonial history of Vientiane (viewed from outside).

Visit the Patuxay Monument, Laos’ version of the Arc de Triomphe, where stunning city views await from the rooftop. Your tour ends at That Luang, the holiest site in Laos.

Take a leisurely walk along the banks of the Mekong River before heading back to your hotel.
Overnight in Vientiane.

DAY 2: VIENTIANE – VANG VIENG (B)

After breakfast, depart for a scenic drive to Vang Vieng.

On arrival, visit Tham Nangfa (Angel Cave) — located on the banks of the Nam Song River, this vast cavern features beautiful stalactites and limestone formations (note: the road is quite bumpy).

Continue to Tham Chang Cave, one of the most important sites in Vang Vieng. Once home to migrating villagers, the cave now offers spectacular views over rice fields and the river.
Overnight in Vang Vieng.

DAY 3: VANG VIENG – CAVING, HIKING & KAYAKING (B)

After breakfast, head north to explore the caves around Vang Vieng.

Visit Tham Xang (Elephant Cave), known for its remarkable limestone formation, and nearby Tham Hoi (Snail Cave), winding deep into the mountain.

Then visit Tham Nam (Water Cave) — float through its cool interior on inflatable tubes and swim in the clear spring pool at its mouth.

In the afternoon, enjoy a light hike through rice paddies and vegetable gardens to a Hmong village. Later, return to Vang Vieng by kayak along the Nam Song River, surrounded by breathtaking limestone mountains.

Approximate activity time:
• 1.5 hours trekking
• 2 hours kayaking
• 2 hours caving

Overnight in Vang Vieng.

DAY 4: VANG VIENG – TRAIN TO LUANG PRABANG (B)

After breakfast, transfer to the railway station for a high-speed train to Luang Prabang.

Upon arrival, begin exploring this UNESCO World Heritage city.

Visit Wat Xieng Thong, the most important Buddhist monastery in Laos; Royal Palace Museum, built in 1904 for King Sisavang Vong and his family; and Wat Mai, known for its golden bas-reliefs and unique five-tiered roof.

Spend the rest of the evening at leisure.
Overnight in Luang Prabang.

DAY 5: LUANG PRABANG – MEKONG CRUISE & PAK OU CAVES (B/L)

After breakfast, transfer to the pier and board a traditional long-tail boat for a scenic cruise up the Mekong River.

Stop at Ban Xang Khong, a weaving village where you can try the loom yourself under the guidance of local artisans. Continue to the sacred Pak Ou Caves, home to hundreds of centuries-old Buddha images.

Enjoy a Lao-style lunch onboard, surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs.

Cruise back to Luang Prabang and enjoy free time to relax or explore.
Overnight in Luang Prabang.

DAY 6: LUANG PRABANG – KUANG SI WATERFALLS & BACI CEREMONY (B)

Wake early to witness the Tak Bat ceremony, where monks collect morning alms — one of Laos’ most spiritual sights. Return to your hotel for breakfast.

Then drive to the spectacular Kuang Si Waterfalls, famous for their turquoise pools and jungle setting. Relax, swim, or hike to the upper tiers for a panoramic view.

On the way back, stop at the Bear Rescue Center, then visit the Traditional Arts & Ethnology Center (closed on Mondays) and Ock Pop Tok Living Crafts Center, where artisans demonstrate silk weaving and natural dyeing.

In the evening, take part in a Baci ceremony — a traditional blessing ritual for happiness and good fortune.
Overnight in Luang Prabang.

DAY 7: LUANG PRABANG – ELEPHANT VILLAGE & DEPARTURE (B/L)

After breakfast, transfer to the Elephant Village Camp. Meet your guide for a short briefing about elephant conservation and join several activities:

• Elephant Feeding & Interaction
• Visit the Elephant Hospital, Museum & Dung Paper Workshop
• Learn Basic Mahout Commands
• Boat Trip to Tad Sae Waterfall – relax or swim in the natural pools (seasonal).

Enjoy a buffet lunch before returning to Luang Prabang.

Spend your remaining time at leisure until your transfer to the airport for your flight to the next destination.

End of Services.
Thank you for exploring Laos with Tonkin Travel — where every journey tells a story.