Best of Thailand & Laos

Sawasdee! Welcome to Thailand.
Your adventure begins in the vibrant northern city of Chiang Mai, where you'll meet your local leader and fellow travellers for a welcome meeting at 6 pm. Once the capital of the ancient Lanna Kingdom, Chiang Mai is renowned for its centuries-old temples, historic city walls and rich cultural heritage.

If you arrive early, consider visiting the iconic Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, one of Thailand's most sacred pilgrimage sites. Climb the staircase to the hilltop temple and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views over Chiang Mai and the surrounding countryside. For those seeking adventure, optional activities such as white-water rafting or ziplining offer an exciting way to experience the region's natural beauty.

This evening, meet your fellow travellers before heading out to enjoy a delicious local dinner together. Your leader will be happy to recommend some of Chiang Mai's best restaurants, where you can sample authentic northern Thai cuisine.

Please make every effort to attend the welcome meeting, as your leader will collect important information, including your travel insurance details and emergency contact information. If you expect to arrive late, please inform your booking agent or the hotel reception as soon as possible. Upon arrival, check with reception or look for a notice in the hotel lobby for details of the meeting time and location.

After breakfast, travel by local bus to the charming northern town of Nan. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel and take some time to refresh before heading out to discover this peaceful destination, known for its rich cultural heritage and relaxed atmosphere.
Your exploration begins with a visit to Wat Phumin, the town's most celebrated Buddhist temple. Originally built in 1596 and later restored during the reign of Chao Ananta Vora Ritthi Det, the temple is admired for its distinctive architecture and beautiful murals that offer a fascinating insight into local history and Lanna culture.

The remainder of the evening is yours to enjoy at leisure. Wander Nan's quiet streets, browse local markets or relax at one of the town's welcoming cafés while soaking up its authentic northern Thai charm.

Your travel time today will be approximately 6.5 hours.

Enjoy a leisurely morning in Nan, with time to explore at your own pace. You may choose to visit a riverside art gallery overlooking the Nan River, where you can relax with a coffee while admiring contemporary works by local Thai artists.
Later, head to Cocoa Valley for an immersive farm experience. Tour the plantation before joining a hands-on workshop that showcases sustainable cocoa production and creative waste management practices. Learn how cocoa bark is transformed into unique handmade products such as aromatic sachets, lip balm or scented candles.

Continue to the picturesque Pua District to visit a traditional hand-weaving centre established by a local woman dedicated to preserving the heritage of the Tai Lue community. Discover the intricate techniques behind beautifully woven textiles while learning how the initiative creates meaningful employment opportunities for local women.

Afterwards, explore the charming village of Pua before spending the evening at the local night market with your leader. If you wish, round off the day with dinner at a nearby restaurant and sample more of northern Thailand's delicious regional cuisine.

• Your travel time today will be approximately 1 hour.

This morning, journey through the scenic countryside of northern Thailand towards the border with Laos. After completing border formalities, stop in the peaceful village of Muang Ngeun, where traditional cotton weaving remains an important part of local life. Explore the village's Buddhist temple and learn how the Tai Lue community preserves its unique weaving techniques and cultural traditions.

Continue to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city of Luang Prabang, often regarded as one of Southeast Asia's best-preserved historic cities. Upon arrival, join your leader for an orientation walk through its charming streets, discovering elegant colonial architecture, golden temples and the city's relaxed atmosphere.
As evening approaches, hike to Mount Phousi to watch the sunset over the surrounding mountains and the Mekong River, enjoying spectacular panoramic views across the city.

Afterwards, head to the lively Luang Prabang Night Market, where you'll savour a traditional Lao Sindad barbecue. Grill your own selection of meats over charcoal while vegetables gently cook in the surrounding broth — a delicious local dining experience and the perfect way to celebrate your first evening in Laos.

• Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.

Enjoy a free morning to explore the enchanting UNESCO-listed city of Luang Prabang at your own pace. If you're looking to experience one of the country's most spectacular natural attractions, consider an optional visit to Kuang Si Falls. Surrounded by lush tropical forest, this stunning three-tiered waterfall is famous for its turquoise pools, scenic walking trails and refreshing swimming spots.

Later in the day, board a boat for a relaxing sunset cruise along the legendary Mekong River. As the golden light reflects across the water and the surrounding landscapes, sit back and soak up one of the most memorable experiences of your journey through Laos.

Today is yours to enjoy at your own pace in the charming city of Luang Prabang. You may wish to take a tuk-tuk to the magnificent Wat Xieng Thong, one of the country's most important Buddhist temples. Built in the 16th century under royal patronage, it served as the coronation site for Lao kings and is renowned for its elegant architecture, gilded wooden doors and intricate carvings depicting scenes from the life of Buddha.

Alternatively, spend the day wandering Luang Prabang's picturesque streets, where beautifully preserved colonial buildings, ornate temples and lush tropical gardens create an unforgettable atmosphere. For panoramic views across the city, you could hike to Mount Phousi, or join a traditional Lao cooking class to learn local recipes while meeting fellow travellers.

Rise early this morning to witness one of Laos' most treasured traditions — the daily almsgiving ceremony in Luang Prabang. As dawn breaks, saffron-robed monks quietly walk through the streets collecting offerings of food from local residents, a centuries-old ritual that remains an important part of everyday Buddhist life.
The rest of the morning and early afternoon are yours to enjoy at leisure. Wander through local markets, relax in one of the city's charming cafés or savour a bowl of traditional Lao noodle soup before making your way to the railway station.

Later, board a modern high-speed train bound for Vang Vieng. Set along the picturesque Nam Song River, this scenic destination is surrounded by dramatic limestone karsts, lush countryside and winding waterways, offering spectacular views as you arrive in one of Laos' most beautiful natural landscapes.

Your travel time today will be approximately 1.5 hours.
Sharp objects such as pocket knives and spray bottles are not
permitted on high-speed trains in Laos, including aerosols and mists.
We recommend bringing sunscreens and mosquito repellents with
no spray capabilities on this trip, as sprays will get confiscated at the station.

Today is yours to discover the natural beauty of Vang Vieng at your own pace. Surrounded by dramatic limestone mountains, rivers and lush countryside, this outdoor adventure destination offers something for every type of traveller.

You may wish to cross the Nam Song River to explore the impressive Tham Phu Kham Cave, home to a striking reclining Buddha and a beautiful turquoise lagoon that's perfect for a refreshing swim. Alternatively, hire a bicycle to explore the surrounding countryside, paddle along the Nam Song River by kayak or visit centuries-old Buddhist monasteries scattered throughout the region.
Whether you choose hiking, boating, cycling or simply relaxing amid Vang Vieng's spectacular scenery, today offers the freedom to create your own unforgettable adventure.

After breakfast, travel by private bus to Vientiane, the relaxed and elegant capital of Laos. Influenced by its French colonial past, the city is known for its leafy boulevards, charming cafés and bakeries, where fresh baguettes and excellent coffee are part of everyday life.

On arrival, visit Wat Si Saket, the oldest surviving temple in the capital, famous for its beautifully preserved architecture and thousands of Buddha images housed within its cloisters.
Your leader will then introduce you to the city's fascinating history and culture before visiting COPE, an inspiring organisation that supports people affected by unexploded ordnance (UXO). Learn about the lasting impact of the Vietnam War on Laos and discover how COPE provides prosthetic limbs, rehabilitation services and ongoing assistance to communities still living with the consequences of unexploded bombs and other remnants of war.

This evening, gather with your fellow travellers for dinner before exploring the lively atmosphere of Quai Fa Ngum, where riverside cafés, restaurants and bars provide the perfect setting to celebrate the final night of your adventure.

• Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.

As there are no more activities planned for today, your adventure
comes to an end this morning. Say goodbye to your new friends and
head off whenever you’re ready. If you’d like to stay in Laos longer,
just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time.