Day 01: Arrive Luang Prabang (LAOS)

THAN NYINDITONHAB Welcome to Luang Prabang airport. We are warmly received and transferred to our hotel.   Hotel check in time starts from 3pm.  Balance of the day is free to relax. Evening comes and our guide meets us and we visit a family home and spend some time to learn and experience the family life of the Laotians.  At the family home we have the opportunity to learn to make and eat traditional sticky rice along with other delicious dishes. Savor a simple yet tasty dinner of Lao specialties before returning to our hotel for a 3-night stay.

Overnight: Saouphattra Hotel (Deluxe Room) Luang Prabang (3 nights) (D)

Day 02: Luang Prabang

After breakfast we start the day exploring Luang Prabang*, an outstanding example of the fusion of traditional architecture and Lao urban structures with those built by the Europeans during their colonial rule in the 19th and 20th centuries. Its unique, remarkably well-preserved townscape illustrates a key stage in the blending of these two distinct cultural traditions. We also visit the National Museum (the former Palace of the King), featuring a collection of personal artifacts of the Royal Family followed by a visit to the shrine of Wat Mai famous for the five–tiered, timber-framed roof and the impressive stupa of Wat Visoun, and That Makmo.  After lunch at a local restaurant we visit the Wat Aham and the 328 steps climb to the summit of Phousi Hill. The climb is made more interesting as we pass by various shrines for an enjoyable viewing of the sacred, gilded Wat Chamsi stupa. Here we have a panoramic view of the city and the Mekong River. The day ends with a visit to the Night Street Market, home to lovely handmade textiles and woodcarvings all made by residents of the nearby hill tribes. (B, L)

Day 03: Luang Prabang/Pak Ou Caves/Luang Prabang

At dawn we will be impressed with a unique sight, as we watch the early morning ritual parade of saffron-clad monks collecting offerings of alms from faithful residents and even visitors. From here the monks stroll the nearby morning market, where we will see diverse offerings such as dried buffalo skin, local tea and saltpeter among the chickens, vegetables and hill-tribe weavings. After breakfast at our hotel we take a short-guided tour of Wat Sene, the city’s oldest temple and the magnificent Wat Xiengthong, featuring roofs that sweep low to the ground, which represents the classical Luang Prabang temple architecture. Do as the locals do – we board a traditional river boat and cruise upstream on the Mekong River to the sacred Pak Ou Caves, enjoying views of beautiful mountain landscapes and the tranquil countryside. Here we explore the mysterious Pak Ou Caves, crammed with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes. The day is not yet done. A whole different experience awaits us as we visit the Smile Elephant Camp where we interact with the world’s largest and yet most “humane” animal species. At the Manifa Elephant Camp we learn about animal behaviour, habitat and get an unforgettable experience feeding elephants. This will be followed by a late lunch at the Smile Elephant Camp Restaurant. (B, L)

Day 04: Luang Prabang/Vientiane (Flight)

A short flight to the capital of Laos, Vientiane where we are welcomed and transferred to our hotel. Afternoon, we explore the city and Wat Sisaket which features remarkable frescoes, as well as 6,840 Buddha statues. At the former royal temple of Wat Prakeo we see some of the finest Buddhist sculptures and artifacts in the country. We will also see the head to the imposing Patuxay Monument, popularly known as Vientiane’s Arc de Triomphe. Our final stop is at That Luang Stupa, built by King Setthathirath in 1566 still considered as the national symbol of Laos.

Overnight: Salana Boutique Hotel, Vientiane (1 night) (B, L)

Day 05: Vientiane/Savannakhet (Drive)

A long but a very interesting day as we drive to Savannakhet, a bustling trade center and the second largest town in Laos, located alongside the Mekong River bordering Thailand. We will see beautiful landscapes and stop en route at the Friendship Bridge, the Buddha Statue Park, Wat Prabath Phonsane (Temple of the Footprint of Buddha) and visit a tribal market. Before reaching Savannakhet, we will enjoy visit Thakek, featuring an ancient city wall made of stone and Sikhotthabong Stupa, Ban Nateuy and Inghan Stupa, a holy relic that attracts scores of pilgrims to pay respect.

Overnight: Daosavanh Resort & Spa, (Deluxe Rooms), Savannakhet (1 night) (B, L)

Day 06: Savannakhet/Lao Bao/Quang Tri/Hue (Drive) (VIETNAM)

Markets are THE place to meet and interact with the local people and understand their way of life. We start the day with a visit to Central Market and see the active life there. Then we head for the Lao Bao immigration checkpoint. After customs and immigration formalities at the Denesavanh/Lao Bao border and its HOAN NGHENH (welcome in Vietnamese!) as we continue for the historical city of Hue.

Established as the capital of unified Viet Nam in 1802, Hue was not only the political but also the cultural and religious centre under the Nguyen dynasty. It was the last dynasty that ruled a unified Vietnam of the 1800’s. The Perfume River winds its way through the Capital City, the Imperial City, the Forbidden Purple City and the Inner City, giving this unique feudal capital a setting of great natural beauty. We have a 2nights stay in Saigon.

Overnight: Saigon Morin Hotel, Hue (2 nights) (B, L)

Day 07: Hue

Today we make an interesting excursion to Hue*, a former imperial city of Vietnam. Explore the Royal Citadel, built in 1804 on a site chosen in accordance with geomancy. The next stop is the lively Dong Ba market known for its hundreds of stalls exhibiting everything from handicrafts to textiles to fresh produce and a lot of interaction with friendly people. We visit the elaborate mausoleum of King Tu Duc (ruled 1848 – 1883) followed by a visit to Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the oldest ancient architectural structures for religious worship in Hue. We end the day with a relaxing cruise on the Perfume River. (B, L)

Day 08: Hue/Hoi An (Drive)

A scenic drive to Hoi An via the Hai Van Pass. Many centuries back, this mountain-pass formed the dividing wall between the ancient Cham culture in the south and the ethnic cultures of the Red River Delta. Eventually it became the dividing line between the North and the South. Along the way we visit the Museum of Cham Sculpture (closed on Mondays) and Linh Ung Pagoda in Danang.  Check in at our hotel for a 2night stay. Balance of the day is at leisure.

Overnight: Little Riverside. A Luxury Hotel & Spa (Little Suite Town Room), Hoi An (2 nights) (B, L)

Day 09: Hoi An

Hoi, an Ancient Town* is an exceptionally well-preserved example of a South-East Asian trading port dating from the 15th to the 19th century. Its buildings and its street plan reflect the influences, both indigenous and foreign, that have combined to produce this unique heritage site. The town which is divided by canals features an interesting mix of architecture dating to different eras ranging from wooden Chinese shophouses and temples to colourful French colonial buildings. Morning, we take a walking tour of the ancient town, strolling through the Japanese and Chinese Quarters and visit the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge known as Chùa Cầu. It is a beautiful footbridge with a temple atop. The scene is a myriad of temples, pagodas, communal houses, traditional shops, ornate Vietnamese tube houses and local markets. We have ample opportunities to watch local daily activities, seeing local craftsmen at work.  Afternoon is at leisure. Good time to relax and enjoy the many facilities at the Little Riverside followed by a self-exploration of Hoi An on foot. (B, L)

Day 10: Hoi An/Da Nang (Drive)/Hanoi (Flight)

A short drive of 30Kms and we are at Da Nang Airport to board our flight to Hanoi. Upon arrival at Vietnam’s capital city we are transferred to our hotel. Afternoon we pay a visit to St. Joseph’s Cathedral - a striking neo-Gothic cathedral noteworthy for its square towers, elaborate altar and colorful stained-glass windows. We then take an hour-long pedicab ride around the Old Quarters of Hanoi. We also visit Bach Ma Temple and Ma May Ancient House. Evening, we enjoy a Vietnamese water puppet show, a tradition that dates back to as far as the 11th century which originated in the villages of the Red River Delta area of northern Vietnam.

Overnight: Tirant Hotel (Executive Balcony Room), Hanoi (1 night) (B, L)

Day 11: Hanoi/Ha Long Bay (Drive)

A whole different experience today as we drive to Ha Long Bay*, located in the Gulf of Tonkin with its 1,600 plus islands and islets, forming a spectacular seascape of limestone pillars. Because of their precipitous nature, most of the islands are uninhabited and as such not impacted by human presence. The site's outstanding scenic beauty is complemented by its great biological interest. We board our cruise boat. Lunch with fresh seafood is served while the ship is cruising through many stone islets, floating villages, small beaches. After lunch we have an offshore excursion to visit the Van Ta area, featuring the Dark and Bright Caves by bamboo boats rowed by local people. We can also explore this area on our own by kayaking (optional and dependent on weather conditions). We will also have a chance to swim in the green emerald and cool waters. Our cruise boat then heads to a quiet designated area for the overnight. Evening, we have a Vietnamese cooking demonstration along with a traditional liquor tasting, followed by a delicious dinner on board.

Overnight: Paradise Elegant Cruise (Deluxe Balcony Cabin) Ha Long Bay (1 night) (B, L, D)

Day 12: Ha Long Bay/Hanoi (Drive)

Today we may partake in Vovinam, a Vietnamese martial arts class, or simply relax and enjoy the sunrise over Ha Long Bay. After a light breakfast we tour Cat Ba World Biosphere, featuring Hoa Cuong Cave, a wonderful cave filled with stalagmites. Back at our cruise boat we are in for a sumptuous buffet brunch before we make our 3hours journey to Hanoi. As we enter the city, we visit the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long*. The Thang Long Imperial Citadel was built in the 11th century by the Ly Viet Dynasty, marking the independence of the Dai Viet. It was constructed on the remains of a Chinese fortress dating back to the 7th century, on reclaimed land from the Red River Delta. It was the centre of regional political power for almost 13 centuries. The Imperial Citadel buildings and the remains in the 18 Hoang Dieu Archaeological Site reflect a unique South-East Asian culture specific to the Lower Red River Valley with crossroads of influences from China in the north and the ancient Kingdom of Champa in the south. After our visit we check in to our hotel.

Overnight: Tirant Hotel (Executive Balcony Room) (1 night) (B, Br)

Day 13: Hanoi/Ho Chi Minh City (Flight)

From one capital to another we take a flight to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) where we have a 2night stay. Afternoon, we explore this city which saw much action and loss of life during the war. We start with the Jade Emperor Pagoda, the Reunification Palace and the Central Post Office which was constructed between 1186-1891 and depicts elements of Gothic Renaissance and French colonial styles. We take a short walk along Dong Khoi Street (former Rue Catinat) from Notre Dame Cathedral to the Municipal Theatre seeing more architectural pieces and street life before driving through the bustling Cho Lon (Chinatown). Time permitting, we will participate in a hand-embroidery workshop before visiting the popular Ben Thanh Market.

Overnight: Hotel Grand Saigon (Premium Deluxe Room–Luxury Wing) Ho Chi Minh City (2 nights) (B, L)

Day 14: Ho Chi Minh City/BenTre/Ho Chi Minh City

Leaving the bustling Saigon for a day excursion to Ben Tre province, famous for its coconut production and quiet, peaceful waterways located in the Mekong Delta. Here we take a boat excursion through narrow canals surrounded by beautiful tropical scenery. We stop at a coconut processing family owned business and learn about the hundreds of uses of each single coconut. We then sail across the water to a brick making factory, where they still use centuries-old methods to make bricks manually. Enjoy lunch featuring Mekong specialties at a local restaurant. We will then walk around the lush garden settings and learn how to make local cakes and if luck has its way, we may also have a chance to have our fortune read by a local fortune-teller. After a day of memorable experiences, we return to Ho Chi Minh City. Balance of the evening is free. (B, L)

Day 15: Ho Chi Minh City /Cu Chi/Phnom Penh (Drive) (CAMBODIA)

After a delicious breakfast we drive to Cu Chi, an area renowned for its elaborate network of over 200Kms. of underground tunnels dug by hand by the Vietcong during the Vietnam War of Independence. We may crawl down a tunnel to get a feeling of life underground during the war. Then we are driven to the Moc Bai border check post and cross the border into Cambodia and its SVAKOM (Welcome in Cambodian) as we head to Phnom Penh, the capital city. Balance of the day is free to stroll around the city on your own. Enjoy the swank suites decorated with local décor at the hotel followed by dinner. Our hotel is ideally located to enjoy the sights and sounds of Phnom Penh.

Overnight: Amanjaya Pancam Suites, Phnom Penh (1 night) (B, D)

Day 16: Phnom Penh/Siem Reap (Flight)

Amanjaya Pancam Suiites is known for breakfast at the rooftop. Enjoy the view of the city before we commence our exploration of Phnom Penh. We will also visit the Notorious Tuol Sleng Museum - the largest center for detention and torture during the rule of the Khmer Rouge. We also visit the central market of Phnom Penh, the Victory Monument, the National Museum with its collection of art sculptures presenting different periods of Khmer history. The Silver Pagoda located in the Royal Palace is famous for its 5000 silver floor tiles as also the gold Buddha statue encrusted with 9584 diamonds (weighing 90kg). We end the day at the Wat Phnom Temple. We are transferred to the airport for our evening flight to Siem Reap where we have a 2nights stay at the elegant Anjali by Syphon Hotel.

Overnight: ANJALI by Syphon (Deluxe Room) Siem Reap (2 nights) (B, L)

Day 17: Siem Reap

Best for the end. We enjoy a full day tour exploring the temple city of Angkor*. Angkor is one of the most important archaeological sites in South-East Asia. Stretching over an area of some 400 km², including forested areas, the Angkor Archaeological Park contains the magnificent remains of the different capitals of the Khmer Empire dating back from the 9th to the 15th centuries. We will visit the famous Temple of Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, featuring the Bayon Temple with its countless sculptural decorations, the Elephant Terrace and the Leper King Terrace.  We will also visit Ta Prohm, which is covered by the surrounding jungle. Then walk to the top of Phnom Bakheng Hill to enjoy a panoramic view of the western Baray and Angkor Wat at sunset. We have a sendoff buffet dinner accompanied with a Khmer dance performance. (B, D)

Day 18: Depart Siem Reap

After what will have been an indepth experience and study of the culture and history of the three countries of Laos, Vietnam & Cambodia, we bid farewell as we are transferred to the airport for our flight to our next destination. Hotel check out time is by 1100 hrs. (B)

B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner

Departure Dates & Prices

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Notes

Inclusions

Participants

This tour operates on a minimum of 02 and a maximum of 08 participants

Customised Itinerary

If you would like to have a tour on dates other than the above ones or with a customised itinerary, please contact us and we will be happy to work out an exclusive program for you.

Contact Info
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