Spirit of Laos and Cambodia

Situated on the tranquil banks of the Mekong River, Luang Prabang offers the charm and serenity of a provincial town. This UNESCO World Heritage Site in Laos is renowned for its traditional Lao architecture, stunning Buddhist temples, and vibrant cultural heritage.

For those arriving on time, our tour leader plans to meet you in the hotel reception at 5pm for a welcome meeting and for those that wish, there is the chance to go out for dinner.

There are no other activities planned today, so you're free to arrive in Luang Prabang at any time. If you'd like an airport transfer today, you'll need to arrive into Luang Prabang International Airport (LPQ) which is 30 minutes from our hotel. If you miss the welcome meeting, the tour leader will inform you of any essential information by note left at the front desk.

Today, we get to have a closer look at Luang Prabang as we start our half day city walking tour with a visit of the quaint Royal Palace Museum that provides a fine overview of the culture and history of this ancient city. We follow the quiet back lanes to the beautiful Heuan Chan Heritage House. Explore the house and its historical items and architectural charms while learning about the connection it has with the Royal Palace. After a refreshing Iced Tea in the gardens, we continue our walk up the peninsula to the country's most historic and enchanting temple, Wat Xiengthong. With its roof that sweeps low towards the ground, this temple's architecture best represents the classical Luang Prabang style. We wander the temple grounds before crossing the road to Wat Khili where this temple's charming traditional library building houses an historic photo exhibition of Buddhist heritage. Our final visit today is the excellent traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre, which gives a great insight into the rich and diverse ethnic and cultural blend of Laos.

Early morning, there is the chance to witness the alms giving of Luang Prabang. The alms-giving ceremony is a serene daily ritual where locals and visitors offer food to rows of saffron-robed monks at dawn, symbolizing generosity and spiritual reflection.

We then head out to the beautiful Kuang Si Waterfalls, approximately 45 minutes from Luang Prabang. Passing forested hills and several ethnic minority villages, we arrive at the limestone falls that cascade into several turquoise pools below. We have some time to explore the many levels of the falls as well as the near-by Sun Bear rescue centre.

Returning to Luang Prabang we visit Ock Pop Tock, a centre dedicated to showcasing the tradition of northern Laos' silk-weaving cottage industry.

The rest of this afternoon has been left free to further explore this charming city, or to relax at one of the many al-fresco coffee shops that pepper the street sides.

In the evening, there is chance to walk to nearby Mount Phousi and climb its 328 steps in time for sunset, offering excellent panoramic views over this sleepy city.

Or you could join our Tour Leader for monk chanting. Each evening, visitors can observe or participate in chanting ceremonies held in many of the local temples. During the ceremonies, monks gather to recite sacred texts in rhythmic, melodic chants, creating an atmosphere of peace and reflection. Visitors are encouraged to sit quietly, dress modestly, and respect the sanctity of the ritual.

This morning, we board our private long tail boat for a leisurely cruise along the Mekong to the village of Pakbeng.

As we navigate upriver the city of Luang Prabang soon fades away, passing river-side villages and then rice paddies and fields of vegetation, all under the shadow of the rolling mountainous terrain in the background. Along the way, we stop at Pak Ou Caves, a cavern hidden in the rockface and filled with a plethora of Buddha images and statues. Depending on the season, we may see locals panning in the river, children playing, blacksmiths at work and basket weavers as we cruise past dwellings.

Lunch is served onboard, and we plan to arrive into Pakbeng in the early evening.

After breakfast, we leave Pakbeng by bus and head north on a scenic drive to Oudomxay. This part of Laos is very rural, and the road weaves its way past lush countryside, agricultural land and past minority villages. We visit Ban Yor, a Hmong village known for its intricate pottery, and take another break to enjoy a picnic lunch before arriving in Oudomxay in the afternoon.

The drive today will take approximately six hours including stops.

After breakfast, we head out for a 5-hour trek through the lush Nam Kat Forest, accompanied by a biodiversity specialist guide. Explore the forest's rich ecosystem, discovering its diverse plant life, wildlife habitats, and hidden natural beauty. Along the way, enjoy a picnic lunch in the forest, surrounded by the tranquil sounds of nature. Depending on the season, up to 60 orchid species can be found here, with several usually in bloom. Your guide will highlight different orchids and other plants, sharing fascinating insights about the forest's biodiversity. After the trek, we visit the Nam Kat Biodiversity Museum, where we find an impressive collection of insects, butterflies, reptiles, and more. The museum provides a deeper understanding of the fragile ecosystems in the surrounding rainforest. Learn about rare and endangered species and the importance of conservation in this well-designed educational museum. The rest of the day is at leisure at the resort.

Note: The trek is moderately challenging. Good footwear is recommended, as the trail can get muddy. The route may be adjusted based on the weather.

Today we will walk 9km with 300m ascents/ descents. For any guests who do not wish to complete the whole tour in the forest, can opt out and transport will be arranged back to the hotel.

After a leisurely morning, we begin our journey by heading to Oudomxay station to board the newly constructed Boten-Vientiane Railway for a short two-hour ride to the capital city of Vientiane. Opened in December 2021, this ambitious project, a collaboration between Laos and China, links the Chinese railway system at the northern border to the Thai railway system via the Friendship Bridge in the south. The railway now connects a network of rural villages in Laos, providing a significant boost to trade in a country with a challenging road network through mountainous terrain. With modern trains reaching speeds of up to 160 km/h, it has also made travel within Laos far more accessible and comfortable.

The journey goes through tunnels and at times, pass lush rice paddies soaking in the scenic beauty of the Laotian countryside.

Upon arrival, we transfer to the hotel where the evening is free to explore the night market and go out for dinner.

Before flying south to Pakse, we set off to explore the charming capital, characterized by its low-rise buildings, red roofs, French colonial influences, and relaxed atmosphere. Highlights of our tour include the Victory Gate, a majestic Triumphal Arch offering panoramic views of the city and That Luang Stupa, a revered monument said to enshrine a hair of the Buddha.

Upon arrival, we transfer into town for lunch and visit the bustling Pakse Market, where vibrant stalls showcase fresh produce, local crafts, and traditional goods. It's the perfect opportunity to immerse ourselves in the local culture and observe daily life in southern Laos.

We then continue our journey into the heart of the Bolaven Plateau. Here the soil is very fertile and so cultivation of Arabica and Robusta coffee and tea is the most important trade, which is complimented by the small scale agriculture of fruit, vegetables, cardamom and rattan.

After breakfast, we transfer to the impressive twin chute Tad Fan Waterfalls. Marvel at the magnificent falls which are formed by two separate rivers.

We then embark on a guided walk through the coffee plantation, where our local guide introduces us to the different varieties of coffee grown and explains the details of the cultivation process.

The walk ends in Tad Yuang, a picture-perfect waterfall. Take in the stunning views of the waterfall by following a path down to the base of the gorge or enjoy a refreshing swim in the river above the falls. Afterward, savor a delicious lunch at the on-site restaurant.

We then continue to Pakxong where we visit Jhai Coffee House. This philanthropic coffee roaster buys from the source and reinvests all profit back into the region. Learn the differences of taste and aroma of a variety of coffees and learn how to best bring out the taste and aroma of each varieties.

After the tasting, we return to the resort and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

The walk is approximately two hours long, covering mostly flat, forested terrain, and is rated as easy.

We travel to Champasak this morning to visit the remarkable Wat Phu Temple. This impressive Khmer temple, dating back to the 6th century, is considered one of the most significant archaeological treasures of Laos.

Originally constructed at the base of a sacred mountain, symbolizing Shiva in Hindu tradition, Wat Phu later became a revered Buddhist shrine. Each February, thousands of pilgrims from Thailand and Laos gather here to celebrate the full moon festival, participating in various cultural competitions and ceremonies. During this time, Wat Phu is adorned with offerings made to honor the earth spirit of Champasak, creating a vibrant and spiritual atmosphere.

Late morning, we cross the Mekong River to Don Daeng Island, a picturresque island inhabited by just a few villages. Lunch is served at a family home, where you can enjoy homemade dishes accompanied by the warm hospitality of the family.

Afterwards, we travel by bus and boat to Don Khone, one of the islands in the 4,000 Islands region of the Mekong River, known for its serene landscapes, picturesque waterfalls, and a relaxed atmosphere, offering a glimpse into traditional Laotian life. We settle in our riverfront hotel where we spend the next two nights.

Today we explore the island by bicycle on a leisurely cycle, tracing the route on an old abandoned French railway - built at the turn of the century to avoid the treacherous rapids caused by the many channels. We will be able to admire some of the old French colonial buildings as well as the rough rapids of the Li Phi waterfalls.

The ride is smooth on flat roads that pass through tranquil villages and lush rice fields, with little to no traffic. If you prefer, tuk-tuks are available for a convenient alternative.

The afternoon is free for relaxation, or you can visit Don Det Island, easily accessible via a simple bridge connecting it to Don Khone.

This morning, we take a boat back to the mainland before starting our drive toward Dom Kralor at the Trapeang Kreal border crossing. After clearing immigration, we arrive in Stung Treng on the Cambodian side, where we will switch vehicles.

Our first stop is Stung Treng city, a quiet, bustling town with a charming atmosphere. We'll pause here for a timely lunch, giving you a chance to sample local flavors and take in the surroundings. After lunch, we continue our journey, driving approximately three hours to Koh Ker where we spend the night.

This area of Cambodia, though relatively untouched by large-scale tourism, is home to an intriguing scattering of ancient relics from the Angkor era. As we travel along the red-earth rural roads of northern Cambodia, we'll likely spot the remnants of forgotten temples, half-hidden by the dense jungle. Along the way, children may wave at us from the roadside, adding to the authentic charm of this remote region.

This morning, we'll set off to explore the Koh Ker Temple complex, hidden deep in the jungle. It's a quieter, less-visited site, offering a peaceful atmosphere to wander through ancient temples, each with its own story. The highlight is Prasat Thom, a striking sandstone pyramid with seven tiers that stands out for its unique design, reminiscent of Mayan architecture, offering a fascinating glimpse into Cambodia's past.

After soaking in the sights at Koh Ker, we'll continue on a scenic drive to Beng Mealea, about an hour away through the rural Cambodian landscape. Known as the 'Jungle Temple', Beng Mealea is an atmospheric site where nature has reclaimed the ruins. With its collapsed galleries, overgrown roots, and sense of mystery, it feels like stepping into another world - a true hidden gem.

After exploring Beng Mealea, we'll head toward Siem Reap, which is just about an hour away, depending on the road conditions and traffic. We'll arrive in the late afternoon and settle in for the final three nights of the trip, giving you a chance to relax and reflect on all that we've seen.

We start the day's exploration with a visit to the temples of King Jayavarman Vll, reputedly Angkor's greatest king. The fortified city of Angkor Thom, which he built at the end of the 12th century, is enclosed by a wall with five monumental gates decorated with stone elephant trunks. Originally, crocodiles inhabited the moat and huge statues of 54 different gods protected each gate.

The city contains another of Angkor's true gems - Bayon Temple. Although not as impressive as Angkor Wat from a distance, Bayon is nevertheless incredible for its maze of corridors, gothic style towers and magical central temples. We'll explore The Terrace of the Elephants and the Leper King, the Baphuon and Phimeanakas, and the 'Tomb Raider' temple of Ta Phrom which has been quite literally consumed by nature.

We leave the best known and most breath taking of all the sights, Angkor Wat, to the end. Originally built as a funerary temple for Suryavarman ll in honour of Vishnu, the temple is unique as it faces west - symbolically the direction of death. It is an immensely grand and imposing structure with an extensive and intricately carved bas relief that stretches throughout the galleries and inner temples. We stay here until after sunset to really appreciate the beauty of the temple in the changing light.

This morning, we set out on the great Tonle Sap Lake, Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake, for a captivating boat journey. As we glide across the water, we visit one of the many fascinating floating villages - entire communities that live, work, and go to school on the lake itself. Here, we witness the rhythms of daily life as locals ply their trade, fishing, selling goods, and navigating the waterways that serve as their roads.

For much of the year, the lake is surprisingly shallow - just a metre deep in some areas. But after the monsoon rains, the Mekong River reverses its flow, swelling the Tonle Sap by up to ten metres and flooding nearby forests and fields. This remarkable natural phenomenon creates one of the most fertile ecosystems in the world, providing vital breeding grounds for freshwater fish and sustaining the livelihoods of countless communities.

After exploring the lake, we drive back to Siem Reap, where the afternoon is free for you to relax or continue your discoveries. You might like to visit the Apopo Visitor Centre, where specially trained HeroRATs detect landmines and tuberculosis. Here, you'll learn about Cambodia's landmine history, watch a live demonstration, and gain insight into ongoing humanitarian efforts.

In the evening, we gather for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, sharing one last delicious meal together and reflecting on the unforgettable journey we've shared through Cambodia's landscapes, history, and culture.

The trip ends after breakfast at our hotel in Siem Reap.

There are no activities planned today, so you're free to depart from Siem Reap at any time. If your flight is departing later in the day, luggage storage facilities are available at our hotel. If you'd like an airport transfer today, you'll need to depart from Siem Reap Angkor International Airport (SAI), which is around a 60 minute drive from the hotel.

If you have time you may choose to browse the old market for some last minute bargains.