Trekking Around Luang Prabang

Laos is a diverse country full of contrasts, surprises and magnificent mountains. This short tour in the north allows you a glimpse of some of this diversity first marvel at the World Heritage City of Luang Prabang with its simple French colonial architecture jumbled up with richly decorated temples.

Enjoy the tranquillity and the bustle of the Night Market. Trek into the mountains and be amazed at the variety of the ethnic minorities – Khamu and Hmong. Overnight with a welcoming Hmong family. Revel in the peace and beauty of the landscape.

Day 1 : Sightseeing in Luang Prabang City

You will be met on your arrival in this captivating World Heritage City and taken you hotel in a central location. After a short rest your tour starts with a visit to the National Museum – once the Royal Palace – but now giving a picture of the various leaders and fighters famous in Lao history, from long ago and up to the present new revolutionary period.

After this enjoy a sightseeing tour of two magnificent temples: Wat Visoun and Wat Xienthong - the city’s oldest temple and one of the best examples of Luang Prabang’s classical architecture. Then we will climb up the steps to the top of Mount Phousi where you can see the sacred stupa and enjoy the magnificent panoramic view of the city and the laid out beath you. Watch as the sun sinks gently in the west and listen to the peace and quiet evening sounds.

And at night we will explore Night Market Street, where you will be able to find lovely handicrafts made by our local people. Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Day 2 : Travel by a variety of ways to Xieng Nguen

Today you will begin with a short drive by tuk-tuk, the most common form of transport for about 45 minutes south along Road No. 13 South (the main highway to Vientiane) Ban Suan Luang.

Next it is necessary to take a small boat across the Nam Khan River before you begin your walk up to the Khamu village of Ban Huayyen(1). Once you’ve arrived feel free to wander around the village before you begin to climb on up the mountain passing through rice field and strikingly beautiful natural scenery.

Finally you reach the small village of Ban Huayyen (2) – home to just 20 families. Then it’s onwards and upwards right to the very top of the mountain Ban PhaLeam, a Hmong village where your guide will make lunch for you, and then you walk down to Ban Tin Pha where you will overnight with a hospitable Hmong family.

Day 3 : Ban Tin Pha and the Tad Sae Waterfall

Wake to the sounds of the village coming to life, have breakfast and then around nine o’clock we will set off walking through more rice fields and forests down to Ban Huay Fai, a Khamu village. Here watch the people making various handicrafts including weaving rattan baskets of different sizes and shapes.

We continue on to the Tad Sae Waterfall, for lunch and a cool swim before a boat ride to Ban Aen, followed by a tuk-tuk ride to Luang Prabang for your overnight stay. (B, L)*

Day 4 : Depart Luang Prabang

In the morning you may want to wake up early and participate in the daily early morning ritual when groups of saffron-clad monks carrying bowls are given offerings from the local people, including the ubiquitous sticky rice.

After breakfast, the day is yours until it’s time for your transfer to the airport