Laos

Northern Laos

Witness the serene daily alms giving ceremony (Sai Bat), a deeply ingrained tradition where local people offer food to lines of saffron-robed monks at dawn.
Explore the magnificent Wat Xieng Thong, one of Luang Prabang's oldest and most revered temples, known for its stunning 'tree of life' mosaic and intricate architecture.
Visit Wat Mai Suwannaphumaham, famous for its impressive five-tiered roof and richly decorated golden bas-reliefs depicting scenes from the Ramayana.
Discover the peaceful Wat Sensoukharam, with its beautiful golden facade and collection of ancient Buddha images.
Consider a visit to the Royal Palace Museum (Haw Kham), the former royal residence, to learn about Lao history and culture.

Wander through the charming streets of the UNESCO World Heritage town, admiring the blend of Lao traditional architecture and French colonial-era buildings.
Explore the bustling morning market, a sensory experience offering fresh produce, local delicacies, and unique Lao ingredients.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the night market, stretching along Sisavangvong Road, offering a wide array of handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs.
Climb to the top of Mount Phousi in the late afternoon to enjoy panoramic views of the town and the Mekong River as the sun sets.

Visit the stunning Kuang Si Falls, located a short trip from Luang Prabang, where you can swim in the turquoise pools and admire the cascading waterfalls. Don't miss the nearby bear rescue center.
Take a scenic boat trip up the Mekong River to the mysterious Pak Ou Caves, housing thousands of Buddha images within limestone cliffs at the confluence of the Mekong and Ou Rivers.
Consider a day trip to the serene Tad Sae Waterfall, offering opportunities for swimming and elephant encounters (ensure ethical practices are followed).
Take a longer excursion to Nong Khiaw, known for its dramatic limestone scenery and opportunities for hiking and kayaking along the Nam Ou River.

Discover the historical and cultural sites of Vientiane, the laid-back capital city of Laos, reflecting a blend of Lao and French colonial influences.
Visit significant national landmarks like the golden Pha That Luang, a revered Buddhist stupa and national symbol.
Explore Patuxai (Victory Monument), offering panoramic city views from the top after climbing its many stairs.
Wander through the serene Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan), located just outside the city, featuring a collection of unique and often bizarre Buddhist and Hindu sculptures.
Visit Wat Sisaket, one of the oldest temples in Vientiane, known for its thousands of small Buddha images.
Stroll along the Mekong Riverside Park, especially lively in the evenings with food stalls and activities.

Experience the stunning karst landscapes of Vang Vieng, with dramatic limestone cliffs rising above the Nam Song River.
Enjoy kayaking or canoeing down the scenic Nam Song River, taking in the breathtaking natural beauty.
Go tubing along the river, a popular and relaxing way to see the landscapes.
Explore the various caves in the area, such as Tham Phu Kham (Blue Lagoon Cave) with its beautiful blue water and reclining Buddha.
Consider rock climbing or ziplining for an adventurous perspective of the scenery.

Explore the Bolaven Plateau, known for its cooler climate, fertile land, and coffee and tea plantations.
Visit the impressive Tad Fane waterfall, where twin rivers plunge dramatically into a deep gorge.
See the picturesque Tad Gneuang waterfall, easily accessible and offering beautiful photo opportunities.
Discover the 4,000 Islands (Si Phan Don) region, a tranquil archipelago on the Mekong River with a very relaxed pace of life.
Witness the powerful Khone Phapheng Falls, one of the largest waterfalls by volume in Southeast Asia.
Explore the islands of Don Det and Don Khon by bicycle, enjoying the laid-back atmosphere and riverine scenery.

Explore the town of Luang Prabang, visit Wat Xieng Thong, and enjoy a sunset view from Mount Phousi.
Witness the morning alms giving ceremony (Sai Bat) and explore the morning market. Visit the Royal Palace Museum and Wat Mai.
Take a day trip to the stunning Kuang Si Falls, swim in the turquoise pools, and visit the bear rescue center.
Take a boat trip up the Mekong River to the Pak Ou Caves, filled with Buddha images, and visit a local weaving village.
Explore more of Luang Prabang's temples and wander through the charming streets. Consider a cooking class.
Take a day trip to the serene Tad Sae Waterfall (seasonal) or explore the countryside by bicycle.
Consider an overnight trip to Nong Khiaw for dramatic scenery and river activities (adjust days accordingly).

Go kayaking or canoeing down the Nam Song River, taking in the breathtaking landscapes.
Explore some of the caves around Vang Vieng, such as Tham Phu Kham (Blue Lagoon Cave) or Tham Chang (Elephant Cave). Consider tubing.

Visit the significant Pha That Luang, a revered Buddhist stupa and national symbol.
Explore Patuxai (Victory Monument) for city views and Wat Sisaket with its thousands of Buddha images.
Visit the serene Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan) and explore the Mekong Riverside Park.

Take an overnight bus from Vientiane to Pakse, the gateway to Southern Laos.
Rent a motorbike to explore the Bolaven Plateau: Tad Fane and Tad Gneuang waterfalls, visit local villages and coffee/tea plantations.
Travel to the 4,000 Islands (Si Phan Don) region. Take a boat to Don Det or Don Khon.
Explore the relaxed islands by bicycle, see the Khone Phapheng Falls, and look for Irrawaddy dolphins.