Thailand and Laos: The Grand Journey

After lunch, you set off to discover the historic center of Ayutthaya. You explore in particular the Wat Mahathat, a major temple dating from the late 14th century, famous for the Buddha head entwined in the roots of a tree, which has become one of the site's symbols.

The visit continues to the Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, a former royal temple and the largest in the ancient capital, recognizable by its elegant aligned chedis that bear witness to the former grandeur of the kingdom.

Finally, you discover the Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, renowned for its impressive reclining Buddha and peaceful atmosphere, offering a beautiful conclusion to this immersion in the heart of Siam's history.

With your guide, you make a detour to the Warorot market, where you can find all sorts of specialties from northern Thailand, such as Sai Ua (northern sausage), Moo Yo (traditional Vietnamese pork sausage), Nam Phrik Num (northern green chili paste) and dried fruits, among other delights. In addition to local food, the market also offers clothing, ceramics, fabrics, embroidery tools, flowers, and much more.

Let's then head towards the Doi Suthep temple, perched on the mountainside at approximately 1,200 meters altitude. A true symbol of Chiang Mai, this magnificent Buddhist temple offers an atmosphere filled with serenity and spirituality, where statues, sanctuaries and bells guide the faithful and visitors through a moment of contemplation. According to legend, its location was chosen by a white elephant carrying a sacred relic of Buddha: after climbing the mountain, the animal stopped at the summit, trumpeted three times and then lay down, thus indicating the place where the temple was to be built. Today, its terraces offer a spectacular view of the city and surrounding valley.

On the way, stop at Wat Pha lat, a more discreet temple nestled in the forest, appreciated for its peaceful setting and almost exclusive atmosphere, far from the bustle of the city.

Finally, we will end our day with a visit to the Wat Umong, a Buddhist temple founded in the 13th century and nestled at the foot of the Doi Suthep mountains. Surrounded by forest, this monastery offers a particularly peaceful atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle of the city.

We will discover the history of the place by walking through its ancient tunnels, carved for meditation. It is also an opportunity to interact, when possible, with the resident monks and learn more about monastic life.

Upon arrival, we begin a guided trek on the Mae Wang trails. We first walk along a mountain stream, before heading to higher ground and crossing the terraced rice fields that shape the region's landscape. We take a lunch break near a waterfall, with the opportunity to refresh ourselves.

In the afternoon, the trek continues through crops and mountain paths. We reach a Karen village for a stop, then continue to the rice fields where your guesthouse is located, for a peaceful end to the day closer to local life.

Day accompanied by an English-speaking trekking guide. Total duration: approximately 5 hours 30 minutes, of which 3 hours 30 minutes of actual trekking.

This evening we are welcomed for dinner and the night by a Karen family, in a breathtaking setting on the edge of the jungle, surrounded by rice fields.

After breakfast with our hosts, we can enjoy a short morning walk in the surrounding area before driving to Chi's camp, a young Karen who shares his daily life with his elephants.

Here, the approach is respectful and focused on animal welfare: no riding, no shows, and limited interactions, always supervised, to give the elephants the space and pace they need.

Upon arrival, we prepare the fruits that will be used to feed them. You set off to walk with them in the jungle, where they roam freely while feeding on the vegetation. Our guide helps us better understand their behavior and the care taken for their well-being, for an authentic, gentle and ethical encounter.

In the afternoon, to cool off, you enjoy a peaceful descent of the Mae Wang river aboard a traditional bamboo raft. Guided by a local boatman, the raft glides gently with the water, offering a calm and contemplative way to discover the surrounding landscapes.

At the unhurried pace of the current, you travel through lush nature between forests, rice fields and wild banks. A simple and relaxing activity, ideal for ending the day gently.

Early departure to Chiang Rai, a large town nestled on the banks of the Kok River, surrounded by mountains, on the edge of the Golden Triangle. On the way, we stop at the Suan Lahu organic farm. Upon arrival, you will enjoy a superb view of the surroundings while sipping a cup of organic coffee grown here. Your hosts will introduce you to the organic farming project being carried out here before giving you a tour of the farm. You will notably witness the production and processing of coffee, tea and fruits. Depending on the season, you will also be witness to the harvest.

Then, we will visit the rural highland community, where we will gain an insight into Lahu indigenous culture.

Upon arrival in Chiang Rai, we begin by discovering the extraordinary Wat Rong Khun, better known as the "White Temple". Created by Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, this site blends Buddhist architecture and contemporary art through surprising frescoes and numerous symbols inspired by Buddhism and popular culture. Its brilliant white gives it an almost surreal atmosphere.

Continuation towards the Wat Rong Sua Ten, the famous "blue temple", designed by a disciple of Chalermchai. Its deep blue hues, naga sculptures and immense Buddha give it an atmosphere that is both mystical and modern.

After this rich day of travel in Northern Thailand, we settle in for 2 nights at the Laluna Hotel & Resort.

This afternoon, a cycling excursion to explore the city of Luang Namtha, including the iconic and very remarkable local stupa as well as the nearby rural local village on the outskirts of the city.

This evening, dinner is free. We spend the night in Luang Namtha

Breakfast then meeting with your guide at the hotel reception.

The trek begins at Ban Jaluensouk, a Khmu village. From there, we follow a trail that leads us to the ridge. We continue along the path that crosses mountain rice fields and forest. Your guide will explain how we work with villagers to conserve and regenerate the forest. Lunch along the way.

Continuing along the trail, we will meet local villagers coming and going from the market before descending to the village of Ban Nalan Tai, located on the banks of the Nam Ha river. Arrival at your local village to spend the night and dine with the locals.

Night at Ban Nalan Tai or Ban Nam Goy. If we stay at Ban Nam Goy, we will continue walking along the river bank for an additional 40 minutes. Approximately 30 minutes transfer (between the meeting point and Ban Jaluensouk) and 5 to 6 hours of trekking.

After breakfast, we head through the forest towards the banks of the Nam Ha.

Deer and monkeys live in this area, so if we walk quietly and luck is on our side, we may spot them! We continue until lunch time when we meet villagers in the forest and enjoy a picnic together.

After lunch, we cross the Nam Ha river to enter the Nam Ha national protected area.

Here, the trail follows a stream through dense jungle, you will see signs of abundant wildlife in the region. As we continue walking, the forest opens up and crosses rice paddies before reaching the banks of the Nam Tha river.

Here, we cross the river with a wooden canoe to join Ban Hat Yawng. From the village we return to Luang Namtha by minibus and will drop you at your hotel. Approximately 5 to 6 hours of trekking and 1 hour of transfer.

You will then board a 4x4 vehicle to be taken to the heart of the countryside through the mountains of the region to meet local communities and their ways of life. A unique immersion that will allow you to better understand the daily life of these inhabitants. Daily life that varies from one time of year to another, from one village to another, from one season to another. A picnic will be taken en route.

You will first follow route 2 towards a small ethnic roadside market before arriving at Ban Kor, a Khamu village. From there, the vehicle will head onto a track to climb into the mountains towards Ban Ano towards the impressive "sea of clouds" at the summit (however weather dependent).

You will pass through the village of Ban Houay Sang, where a Khamu community practices basketry. At Ban Tong Seu, you will discover one of the rare Hmong villages in the region and, if you were to be there in December, you might have the chance to participate in the colorful Hmong New Year. At Ban Akhang, an Akha village (also called Ikhos), you will be surprised to see houses with brightly colored windows and doors. Arrival at Ban Ano, after passing through the Sea of Clouds. Ban Ano is an Akha village where there is an old landing strip dating from the second Vietnam War. Then return to route 2 and the village of Ban Pakho where you will have the opportunity to discover tobacco drying houses. Continue our journey towards Muang La.

Once in Muang La, you will see the hot springs highly prized by locals for their health benefits. You will also have the opportunity to discover salt mines. Return to your resort at the end of the day. Dinner at leisure and night at the Resort.

Breakfast at the hotel and check-out. Take only essentials for 2 days and 1 night in a backpack. Your luggage will be left at the hotel storage.

Then you will depart for the village of Nam Haeng. During the journey, you will discover several old Khummu and Hmong villages along the road. Your guides will explain tribal culture and the lifestyle of local populations.

Departure from Nam Haeng to Chom Ong and lunch in the village. Begin a visit of the village, where you will have the opportunity to discover and learn more about the traditions, culture and lifestyle of Chom Ong inhabitants as well as the different types of local craftsmanship.

Dinner and Baci with locals. Night in the village.

Breakfast at the village with locals before continuing your walk in the region.

You start exploring Chom Ong cave for a few hours with the same return path (cave visit is based on your physical condition).

Lunch near the cave entrance.

Visit the waterfall and if you want to experience swimming in natural water, the natural pool opposite the cave is one of the best choices. Return to Oudomxay.

1 hour: transfer to the pier and departure for the Pak Ou caves located at the confluence of the Nam Ou River and the Mekong, nestled in limestone cliffs (private boat).

Lunch during the cruise on board.

The caves shelter hundreds of Buddha statues of all sizes. It is an important pilgrimage site for Laotians, particularly during the Lao New Year in mid-April. Once this visit is complete, you will return to Luang Prabang with a stop at the Ban Xang Hai village, renowned for its rice alcohol production. Handle with care, as the alcohol content varies between 25 and 45 degrees! Continue by boat and end of cruise returning to Luang Prabang.

Take the opportunity to admire the Vat Xieng Thong temple, this emblematic monastery of the city with its typical local architectural style. It is revered and located at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers. Transfer to your hotel and the rest of the afternoon is free at your leisure. For those who feel capable, you can hike to the top of Phou Si Mountain, where you will enjoy a breathtaking view of the city and its surroundings at sunset. Do not miss the night market, a true jewel of local craftsmanship (you can also visit it another evening, at your convenience). Return to the hotel.

For dinner, you are free to choose, and we suggest you gather like the locals around a "sin dat", a Lao barbecue where thinly sliced meat is grilled on a metal dome while simultaneously simmering a soup in which you add your ingredients as you wish (vegetables, vermicelli, herbs, spices, etc.) at the Dyen Sabai restaurant!

You will begin your visit in a "Deluxe" Tuk-Tuk of the main monuments in the city of Luang Prabang, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995.

Starting with the former Royal Palace which became the National Museum, with its lovely collection of vintage cars in the garage, a precious state gift from the United States featuring a moonstone fragment, the attributes of royal power, etc.

Without forgetting of course the Vat Prabang which houses the sacred statue of the Buddha Prabang which gives its name to the city and then the adjacent royal Vat Mai.

A stop at Vat Xieng Mouane which will also be a unique opportunity to discover a training center for certain manual crafts linked to Buddhist art. And then, the Heritage House (Heuan Chan Heritage House) will allow you to better understand the policies for protection, enhancement and preservation of the city of Luang Prabang. Through its architectural heritage of which the stilt house is an archetypal example.

Full day hiking tour « Kuang Si Waterfall Insight » (in group). You will walk for approximately 4 hours.

Expect to climb and descend on rough jungle trails. These paths can become muddy and slippery during rain. About 10 km in total with an elevation gain of 200m and a negative elevation loss of approximately 400m.

This morning, head by minivan to a Khmu ethnic village where you will begin your adventure.

You start with a hike to a neighboring Hmong village. You will learn more about the lifestyles of the Khmu and Hmong peoples, these two culturally very different minorities and see how, despite their differences, they work together daily and even share the same school.

As you progress, the trail crosses rice paddies and vegetable fields before reaching the mountain forest. Along the way, you explore a cave that was used as an anti-bomb shelter by local villagers during the Second Indochina War. After visiting the cave, continue hiking to one of the many springs that feed the Kuang Si waterfalls, where you can see a beautiful natural pool full of sacred fish.

After descending from the top of the waterfall, you will enjoy a Lao-style lunch in beautiful natural surroundings! After lunch, relax near the waterfall with plenty of time to swim and take photos of the magnificent waterfalls and turquoise pools. Don't forget your swimsuits and towels! Girls, young ladies and women should also remember their sarongs, as out of respect for local culture, you may encounter monks who, like you, would come to refresh themselves here. Before leaving the Kuang Si waterfalls, you will visit a rescue and sanctuary center for bears rescued from illegal wildlife trafficking. Visit the permanent exhibition which explains the different actions being taken to protect the last Asian Black Bears. An excellent way to consider the protection of often threatened Asian biodiversity.

Weather permitting and to be arranged on site if applicable, on the way back. Laos, with a view to expanding its livestock, has decided to implement prevention and breeding programs. To benefit from expert advice, the government called upon the Buffalo Farm in the Luang Prabang countryside « Laos Buffalo Dairy (farm) » to conduct its research programs in partnership with local breeders. This farm was born from the desire of a group of friends from Singapore to escape the urban world to settle in the countryside. Noting a dairy and especially cheese industry that was almost non-existent, the challenge led them to create this farm... after all, mozzarella is originally made from buffalo milk! A visit of approximately 30 minutes to this center can only be enriching. You will start by receiving several explanations about the situation of buffalo in Laos, the care required and then the program. You will have the opportunity to get close to buffalo but also to bottle-feed the young. And don't miss, at the end of the visit, tasting homemade ice cream made from buffalo milk. Depending on the season, they are flavored with fruit, lemongrass or sesame.

Return to your hotel during the afternoon.

Dinner at your leisure, we recommend the MGallery 3 Nagas restaurant, the terrace is superb, with umbrellas and century-old mango trees in particular. It is located in a quiet area of the main street of Luang Prabang, ideal for a comfortable and intimate dinner away from the crowds. Night in Luang Prabang.

This morning, you will learn more about the secrets of bamboo, which is omnipresent in Laotian culture. You will enjoy the surrounding nature with its rice fields on the outskirts of Luang Prabang. 

Your discovery will begin with a bamboo weaving lesson taught by an experienced weaver. This will be followed by several activities that will help you understand the usefulness of bamboo-based products in daily life (fishing equipment, hunting gear, musical instruments, dance, among others). You will then attend a cooking class on bamboo-based dishes. You will participate in the preparation of dishes that you will taste in the sala overlooking a magnificent landscape (Group activity).

Disembarkation and exit. Welcome by your local guide.

Travel through the hinterland of Vang Vieng between the Nam Song river and the sugar-loaf karst hills. The countryside is dotted with rice fields and several hiking trails have emerged in recent times, offering charming viewpoints from the peaks of certain rocky pinnacles. We recommend the views from Pha Ngeun or from Nam Xay for example. These are now highly "photogenic" sites equally popular with passing visitors and locals.

The Vang Vieng valley is renowned for its caves, many of which house Buddha statues. But also for these water holes ("Lagoons") and characteristic waterways in shades of blue. Young people come here to cool off and play Tarzan!

The Nam Song river itself is the object of desire with rides in motorized pirogues, or more sportingly with canoes-kayaks. To be coordinated with your guide, and to be settled on site if applicable.

Rocky roads and paths are explored by buggy rental companies.

Arrival at your hotel and check-in in the second part of the afternoon.

Early in the morning or late afternoon, it is possible to take advantage of updrafts and feel like a bird, in a hot air balloon. If enjoying superb views from the sky interests you, coordinate with your guide for a unique experience in a hot air balloon! Generally, pickup is around 4:30 PM/5 PM. And we recommend Above Laos Ballooning Adventures. At your discretion, to be settled directly with the service provider.

End of day at your leisure for some rest and to enjoy the natural setting on the banks of the peaceful Nam Song river, especially at sunset.

Breakfast at your hotel and check-out.

This morning you will be introduced to Vang Vieng and its different facets. At 09:00, you will be picked up by a local English-speaking guide heading north of Vang Vieng to begin with a pleasant kayaking excursion on the Nam Song river, which flows along superb lava stone formations.

After approximately 2 hours, you will reach a local Kamu village where you will explore the Khmu and Lao village living together. Your local English-speaking guide will join you.

Visit one of the neighbors who is a knife blacksmith, an old man who uses techniques used for generations to create a new knife for his daily income. You will have the opportunity to try this.

From there, you will continue to one of the Khmu families where you will be welcomed for a typical Khmu lunch in the family's garden. (If the weather is not favorable, lunch will be served in the house).

Here, you will also learn about the traditions and culture of animism practiced by many ethnic minorities in Laos. After spending time discussing with the family, you will also learn how the local rice wine, "Lao Hai", is produced.

Later in the afternoon, your English-speaking guide will take you through the rice fields to a cave on the other side of the river, passing by farmers working in the fields.

On the way back to the village, you will rest in one of the local rice huts and taste rice alcohol, while learning more about the importance of agriculture in Laos.

Return to town around 4:30 PM. Collection of luggage from the hotel and a short stroll around town.

8:15 AM: Meeting with your guide and driver at the hotel reception. You will begin your exploration of the Laotian capital with two must-sees:

The Vat Sisaket where photography enthusiasts will appreciate the different perspectives of Buddha in a row. It is the oldest temple that has remained intact throughout the capital's history since the mid-1500s before continuing with the Sacred Buddhist Arts Museum of Ho Prakeo and notably its standing statues. The former Vat Ho Pra Keo housed the Emerald Buddha which can now be admired within the grounds of the Royal Palace in Bangkok.

Then you will head to the Patuxay, the Arc de Triomphe of Vientiane. The view from its summit gives an idea of the extent of the Laotian capital and the flat terrain of the Mekong valley.

You will then make your way to the site of That Luang and its great golden stupa, which stands atop a small hill. This stupa is the symbol of the city. It also appears on all Laotian banknotes (yes, yes, check it!) and on official seals. It is said that the stupa houses a relic of Buddha. The site is popular with engaged couples who come to have their photos taken in traditional outfits a few weeks before their wedding. Photographer, assistants, costumiers, makeup artists, a whole battalion gathers to immortalize this moment. The niches in the cloister walls offer lovely perspectives and possibilities for original photos. The wrought iron grilles too, with perspectives on the staircases and gilding in transparency.

Lunch is on your own.

Continuing towards the Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan) where eccentric sculptures were built in 1958. About thirty kilometers from the capital, this park, on the banks of the Mekong facing the Thai city of Nong Khai, stands out for its originality and a pronounced desire to blend Asian religions within a park of statues. All to better understand the evolution from Hinduism to Buddhism in Laos.

After this last visit, we will transfer you to the Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge in Vientiane-Nong Khai. Drop-off on the Laos side and immigration clearance by yourselves.

Arrival at Nong Khai, you take a Tuk-Tuk to the train station 1.5 km away.

6:00 AM - Arrival at Bangkok station where your driver awaits you. Transfer to your hotel.

Please note that rooms are available from 2:00 PM at the earliest. If your room is not available upon arrival, you can drop off your luggage and begin your city tour.

Accompanied by your guide, you make your way to the quays and then board a public ferry boat. Along the waterway, you head up towards the historic centre on the right bank, as far as the flower market at Pak Khlong Talat. Stroll through the fragrant aisles and immerse yourself for the first time in an authentic and traditional Asia.

We set out to discover the architectural jewels of Bangkok. Let us marvel at the splendor of the Grand Palace of Bangkok, built in 1782: a sumptuous ensemble of buildings and inner courtyards, including Wat Phra Kaeo (Temple of the Emerald Buddha). We discover there the famous Emerald Buddha, a precious statue dating from the 14th century, at the heart of one of the most venerated sanctuaries in the country.

Then, on foot, we reach Wat Pho, one of Bangkok's oldest temples, renowned for its peaceful atmosphere and elegant pavilions. We discover the impressive Reclining Buddha, an iconic figure of the site, as well as the inner courtyards dotted with stupas and refined decorative details.

Then, we cross the river by small boat to reach Wat Arun, the famous "Temple of Dawn", standing on the right bank. Upon arrival, we will be able to admire its spectacular central prang, finely decorated with porcelain mosaics and floral motifs that shimmer in the light.

Ride aboard a private traditional "long-tail" boat-taxi on the Chao Praya river, one of the country's most important waterways and the vital artery of Bangkok. As we drift along the water, we discover the "Venice of the Orient," between peaceful klongs, stilt houses, and small temples hidden along the banks.

Depending on your flight time, transfer to Bangkok airport.

Goodbye and see you soon in the Land of Smiles!