Secrets of Southern Laos

Luang Prabang is Laos’ most beautiful and engaging town. Surrounded by mountainous forests and situated at the confluence of the Khan and Mekong rivers, Luang Prabang has a tranquil, old-world charm. This fascinating town was the capital of the Lane Xang (million elephants) kingdom until the mid-16th century. The legacy of the European presence here has blended delightfully with more than thirty gilded Buddhist temples to create a town rich in atmosphere and history. Begin your discoveries with the charms of Luang Prabang with a leisurely walk around the old quarters. Starting from the vibrant morning market, then onto the charming city main street and the National Museum. Afterwards, visit Wat Xienthong ‘The Temple of the Golden City’, considered the finest temple in Laos. End the day by a relaxing scenic boat ride, for a memorable sunset cruise along the Mekong river.

Start your day with a drive to the outskirts of Luang Prabang which will take us to Kuang Si Waterfall, the most beautiful of the waterfalls near Luang Prabang. Swim, explore and be surrounded by turquoise waters and jungle, then visit a nearby bear sanctuary to see Asiatic Black bears rescued from the illegal wildlife trade. As we return to town you will get to see the fascinating world of Lao textiles come alive with a visit to Ock Pop Tok Weaving Centre. Later this evening, journey to Bamboo experience where you will see a bamboo presentation while enjoying a delicious dinner and a traditional ‘baci’ ceremony.

Continue your journey south as you take a flight to Pakse. On arrival, begin our discoveries with a scenic drive through mountains and winding roads all the way up to the region of Bolaven Plateau. Along the way you will get the chance to meet Mr Kamsome, a local coffee farmer and a coffee expert who will take you for an exciting off-road driving adventure in an old army Jeep into the coffee plantation.

Experience being surrounded by verdant jungles and rolling mountains, at our first stop – the Tad Fane or the “Twin Waterfalls”. We will then continue on to visit the ancient ruins of Wat Phu (Mountain Temple) a UNESCO World Heirtage Site, noted to be one the oldest archaeological sites in Laos. Continue the scenic route until we reach Done Khong, the largest island of Si Phan Don 4,000 Islands.

Explore an archipelago of islands where time swings slowly by. Feel the fresh breeze while sailing along the Mekong River, passing fisherman villages and eventually reaching Done Khone where we will disembark. On the island, feel the breeze in your hair as you enjoy a bicycle ride and see iconic sights such as the old French locomotive and Railway Bridge. You will then visit the spectacular Liphi Waterfalls, a collection of powerful falls spilling down in many angles branching out to join the Mekong River.

Continue our adventure with a visit to the mighty Khone Phapheng Waterfalls. Marvel at its immensity and its powerful cascading currents. Continue to the village of Ban Khiet Ngong located in Xe Pian National Protected Area, an extensive wetland home to rare wildlife species. Enjoy a short walk as we ascend to the top of the Phou Asa Mountain where mysterious columns made out of stacks of plate-like rocks stands proudly as if protecting an unseen structure, believed to be a temple. Return back to Pakse to end an adventurous day and feast on a traditional Sindat dinner.

It’s time to say goodbye, but just think of all the wonderful stories you will take home. A transfer will take you to the airport for your onward travels.