From CAD 2299 Was CAD 2705
Guarantee
Small Group
Light
Rating
(20 reviews)
Experience Overview
Travel from Bangkok to Vientiane experiencing the delights of northern Thailand and the laidback river lifestyle of Laos. Join us on a voyage of discovery and relaxation, taking in the bright lights of Bangkok in Thailand, the age-old charms of Luang Prabang in Laos and the temples of Vientiane. Travel down the mighty Mekong River and become immersed in the tranquillity of remote villages and meet friendly faces along the way.
Highlights
- Travel from Thailand's lively capital and activity-filled Chiang Mai, to the riverside tranquillity of Laos and its stunning scenery.
- Discover just why Luang Prabang has UNESCO status as you uncover the French influence, beautiful temples, traditional arts and the world renown night markets.
- Indulge in a sweet and socially responsible treat at Laos Buffalo Dairy, an enterprise that produces delicious ice-cream while giving back to the community.
- Explore the mysterious beauty of the Lao jungle as you walk side by side with recently rescued elephants on stroll through their natural habitat at Mandalao. Read more about this Intrepid Foundation supported project here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/elephant-sanctuary-laos/
- Rise with the sun and watch saffron-robed monks shuffle between houses, where the faithful wait with offerings as part of an alms giving ritual.
Trip Details
Product Code: 2732
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Longtail boat,Taxi,Minivan,Overnight train,Boat,Tuk tuk,Private bus
Guide Language: English
Supplier Code: TLSV
Starts: Bangkok, Lao Pdr
Finishes: Vientiane, Lao Pdr
Duration: 13 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (9), Lunch (1),Accommodation: Guesthouse (2 nights),Hotel (9 nights),Overnight train (1 night)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD 2299 (CAD 177 /day)
Itinerary
Sa-wat dee! Welcome to Thailand. Thailand's bustling capital, Bangkok, is famous for its tuk-tuks, khlong boats and street vendors serving up delicious local food. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm, if you arrive earlier, why not venture out into this enigmatic city. Bangkok has so much to offer those with time to explore, so perhaps arrive a day or so early to uncover the Chinatown area, visit the magnificent (but very crowded) Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, wander down the tourist mecca of Khao San Road, indulge in a Thai massage or see the backstreets of Bangkok by bike on an Urban Adventure. Find out more at urbanadventures.com. After the meeting tonight, gather your fellow travellers together and tuck into some into world famous street food for our first optional dinner.
Optional Activities:
- Bangkok - Grand Palace (500 THB)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Begin the day with a 1-hour river cruise down the Chao Phraya River to explore the famous ‘khlongs’ (canals). Life along these canals seems a world away from the chaotic streets of the capital. Pay a visit to Wat Pho, one of the Bangkok temples, with a 46-metre long gold-plated Buddha reclining inside. Even the feet of this statue are incredible, three metres long and intricately decorated with mother of pearl. The temple grounds are equally fascinating, filled with beautifully decorated stupas, halls, and shrines. This evening you’ll head north to Chiang Mai on an overnight train journey, accommodated in a sleeper carriage (approximately 13 hours). The carriages are air-conditioned, with bunk beds; clean sheets, blanket and pillow are provided. Your baggage travels in the carriage with you. There is a food and drink service available on board. Sometimes the air conditioning can make the carriage quite cold so you may want to bring a warm layer of clothing.
Included Activities:
- Bangkok - Khlong boat canal tour
- Bangkok - Wat Pho
Optional Activities:
- Bangkok - Thai Massage (250 THB)
- Bangkok - Jim Thompson's House (200 THB)
Accommodation:
- Overnight train (Number of Nights: 1)
The most vibrant city in northern Thailand, Chiang Mai has many famous temples and an interesting old city area. Renowned for its lively cafe scene and extremely welcoming locals, this place captivates many travellers. First, embark on a scenic, winding drive up a mountain (around 45 minutes) to one of the country's most stunning temple complexes, Doi Suthep. A 300-step naga-guarded stairway leads you to the temples, and the climb is well worth the effort. The hypnotic atmosphere of chanting Buddhist monks and sweeping views of the city make this a most memorable experience. After making our way back down from the temple, check in to the hotel and plan the rest of your time here. In the evening you can choose to wander through the enormous, colourful Night Bazaar or perhaps relax at a fine restaurant along the riverfront. Make sure to sample some delicious traditional northern Thai food – the signature dish is kao soy, yellow wheat noodles in a curry broth, traditionally served with chicken or beef.
Included Activities:
- Chiang Mai - Doi Suthep Temple Complex (Entrance)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today is free for you to explore and there are plenty of optional activities available. Perhaps join a local cooking class today and discover the secrets of real Thai cuisine, you'll learn the key ingredients, how to use them, and what to use in their place if you can’t get them at home. As well as taking your own comprehensive recipe book with you after the class, you'll feast on the fruits of your labour for lunch. Get active with a bicycle tour to discover the city and surrounding countryside from a different perspective, or be spirited away on an early morning Chiang Mai tour that puts you at the epicentre of Buddhist rituals. Learn to meditate, offer alms to monks, and make an offering at a temple. Also popular is the lovely Elephant Sanctuary at Chang Chill.
Optional Activities:
- Chiang Mai - Thai cooking course (1000 THB)
- Chiang Mai - Bicycle tour (990 THB)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Take a journey through rural countryside to the Thai border town of Chiang Khong (approximately 5.5 hours). On the way visit privately owned Wat Rong Khun, more commonly known as the White Temple – a must visit in Chiang Rai. This contemporary temple is constantly being updated, and its strange design features references to Buddhist mythology, human sin and pop culture icons such as Michael Jackson, Harry Potter and Superman. Formerly known as 'Juon', peaceful riverside Chiang Khong remains an important market town for the surrounding hill tribes and for trade with Laos. Stretch your legs with a stroll around town, and if you find yourself with time, then Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Luang are both well worth a visit while you’re here. Tonight, why not enjoy a final Thai drink and dinner, while Laos beckons from across the mighty Mekong.
Included Activities:
- Chiang Rai - Wat Rong Khun (White Temple)
Accommodation:
- Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
After crossing into Laos and for the duration of our time in the country we will be joined by additional Laos guides – a government requirement. Board a slow boat for the 2-day journey down the mighty Mekong River to Luang Prabang. The journey is relaxed, so you can experience the slow pace of village life and the breathtaking scenery along the river up close. The river boat is basic in nature, with a toilet, covered roof, and open sides to take in the fresh air. There are seats in the front of the boat and a small open area in the back where you can have a nap on the mat, play cards, read or have lunch. Dock at the small town of Pak Beng (after about 6 hours) to spend the night. Hmong and tribal Thai people are frequently seen on the main streets, where vendors sell local textiles and handicrafts.
Included Activities:
- Mekong River - 2 day boat trip
Accommodation:
- Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Reboard the boat and cruise to the Pak Ou Caves. An important religious site overlooking the river at the junction of the Mekong and Ou Rivers, the revered Pak Ou Caves consist of two sacred limestone caverns filled with Buddha images of all styles and sizes, brought by devoted villagers over the centuries. The lower cave, known as Tham Ting, is entered from the river by a series of steps and can easily be seen in daylight. The higher cave, Tham Phum, is deeper and requires a torch for viewing. Continue on to the former royal capital of Luang Prabang (approximately 7 hours total journey time). This atmospheric World Heritage-listed city is a favourite of many travellers. Nestled in the hills of northern Laos on the confluence of the Mekong and Khan rivers, the city is claimed to be ‘the best preserved city in South East Asia’ by UNESCO. The city and its people retain a refined, yet relaxed, air and it’s a wonderful place to wander the streets into boutiques, cafes and small shops. Stay in a hotel tonight and if you are feeling energetic, climb Mt Phousi for some sunset views – the large hill that dominates Luang Prabang's skyline, topped by a glittering golden stupa. You can climb the 328 zigzag steps up to the sacred gilded stupa and big drum of the Phu Si Temple for a panoramic view of Luang Prabang and its surrounds.
Included Activities:
- Luang Prabang - Pak Ou Caves
Optional Activities:
- Luang Prabang - Mt Phu Si (2 USD)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Once the heart and soul of the ancient Lao Kingdom (Lan Xang) and designated a World Heritage site in 1995, Luang Prabang is endowed with a legacy of historic red-roofed temples and French-Indochinese architecture, not to mention some of the country's most refined cuisine, a multi-ethnic population and rich culture. Rise with the sun this morning and witness a traditional alms giving ceremony. View the procession of saffron-robed monks on their daily outing collecting food offered by devotees, a practice that dates back centuries. The offerings must be collected early, as the monks cannot eat anything after midday. By giving food to a monk, it is believed you ‘het bon’ (make merit) which will be carried over into the next life. Your leader will guide you through the do’s and don’ts and help you to take part in this alms giving tradition. Return back to your hotel for breakfast and a free morning. In the afternoon, head south of town and stop for a sweet (socially responsible) treat at Laos Buffalo Dairy, an enterprise that works with the surrounding villagers by renting their buffalo, in order to produce delicious products including yoghurt, cheese and ice cream. The Dairy ensures a regular income for locals while ensuring the buffalo and their calves are well looked after. Why not contribute to this local business by purchasing an ice cream! Continue on to the beautiful Kuang Si Falls, a picturesque, multi-level cascade that offers fantastically blue pools that are perfect for a mid-afternoon dip. Back in Luang Prabang this evening you’ll have free time to make further discoveries, including visiting the popular night market.
Included Activities:
- Luang Prabang - Kuang Si Waterfalls
- Luang Prabang - Alms giving ceremony
- Luang Prabang - Laos Buffalo Dairy social enterprise visit
Optional Activities:
- Luang Prabang - Night Market - Free
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, experience a wonderful local elephant project in nearby Mandalao that will give you a new perspective and profound understanding of these magnificent beasts. Discover the mysterious beauty of the Lao jungle as you walk side by side with recently rescued elephants on stroll through their natural habitat – a perfect way for these happy creatures to enjoy their freedom after decades of hard labour in logging camps. Begin by leaving Luang Prabang for the village of Xieng Lom (approximately 30 minutes) before taking a quick boat ride across the Nam Khan River where you’ll be introduced to your new gigantic companions. Feed them some special treats (a sure way to win their friendship) followed by a gentle, therapeutic walk, that offers you the opportunity to absorb their calming energy as you wander along a small dirt path through the surrounding flora and fauna, past traditional farms and the Huay Nok stream – where you may be able to spot elephants splashing around in the water as they cool off from the hot Lao sun! As you prepare to start your walk back to Mandalao, say goodbye to your new friends. Return to Luang Prabang in the afternoon and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Included Activities:
- Luang Prabang - MandaLao Elephant Conservation (The Intrepid Foundation partner) lunch & trek
Optional Activities:
- Luang Prabang - Royal Theatre (20 USD)
- Luang Prabang - Wat Xieng Thong (3 USD)
- Luang Prabang - National Museum (4 USD)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Take a high-speed train today to Vang Vieng (approximately 1 hour). Situated on the Nam Song River, Vang Vieng is surrounded by towering limestone karsts and is a great place to enjoy being out in and surrounded by nature. After checking in to the hotel, use tonight to plan out your next few days with your group and leader.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
There’s plenty to do in and around Vang Vieng, known as an adventure town thanks to its unique and varied surrounding country. The area is renowned for its caves, many of which are easily accessible from the town. Perhaps the most famous is the cave of Tham Chang, a beautiful cavern fed by a natural spring making it a perfect spot for a refreshing swim. Hire bicycles to explore further afield, hike the trails to nearby lookout points, join a day trip to go kayaking on the river, or you can visit an organic mulberry farm just outside town and enjoy a meal there.
Optional Activities:
- Vang Vieng - Bicycle hire (2 USD)
- Vang Vieng - Wat Si Vieng Song - Free
- Vang Vieng - Kayaking (35 USD)
- Vang Vieng - Tham Phu Kham Cave (10000 LAK)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Continue by private minibus to the country's capital, Vientiane (approximately 3.5 hours). Possibly Asia's most laidback capital, even here everything seems to be conducted at a relaxed pace. Vientiane has a wealth of cultural delights to discover on foot, or for the less energetic, by jumbo (tuk-tuk). Faded colonial mansions, tree-lined boulevards and old temples create an atmosphere of timelessness, particularly in the older part of town along the Mekong River. Pay a visit to Wat Si Saket, the oldest temple still standing in Vientiane and home to almost 7000 Buddha images. Visit COPE vistors centre, an organisation dedicated to assistance those who have been injured by the multitude of unexploded ordinance across the country. This is an excellent cause and a chance to educate yourself about Laos' devastating war history as well as buy a snack or drink from their Karma Cafe. This evening, maybe join your fellow travellers for dinner tonight.
Included Activities:
- Vientiane - COPE visit
- Vientiane - Wat Si Saket
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
There are no activities planned for the final day and you are able to depart the accommodation at any time. For those with more time here, there are plenty of choices, including the Pha That Luang Monument.
Optional Activities:
- Vientiane - Xieng Khuan (Buddha Park) tuk tuk & entrance (205000 LAK)
- Vientiane - Pha That Luang Monument (incl. long skirt hire to enter) (15000 LAK)
- Vientiane - Lao Textile Museum (30000 LAK)
- Vientiane - Haw Pha Kaeo Museum of Religious Art (10000 LAK)
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Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Justin - Traveled, April 2024
This is a well organized itinerary to get to know the locals, to experience different transportations, and having enough of personal time. Although it’s hot, try to attend during the new year. Don’t miss the water festival!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/25/2024
Andy - Traveled, March 2024
5 stars all the way, If you are lucky, Emmy will be your guide. Excellent destination and life experience. Comfortable way to travel. So many happy memories made.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/12/2024
Lianne - Traveled, March 2024
Fabulous trip, highly recommend. The 2 day boat trip was very relaxing and a great time to connect with fellow travellers. The elephant sanctuary visit was amazing, there was lots of time to interact with elephants, feed and walk with them. Definitely a highlight of the trip. Emmy the rep was amazing too
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/12/2024
Tracy - Traveled, March 2024
What a fantastic trip! The itinerary was interesting and varied, we met a great group of people and Ning our guide was excellent. Her local knowledge and enthusiasm helped us to really make the most of this opportunity. We’ll definitely be using Intrepid again in the future
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/01/2024
Robyn - Traveled, March 2024
I was so impressed with Intrepid's commitment to responsible travel and to (gently!) deepen our historical, cultural and environmental knowledge of the places we experienced. So many highlights, but a particular one was the "no ride" elephant walking experience. I had no idea of the damage the tourist riding experience has on elephant welfare, including their fertility. Thank you Intrepid and thank you to Ning, our wonderful guide in Thailand and Laos, and Tui, in Laos and to Mr and Mrs Boun, our Mekong boat captains and hosts.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/01/2024
Janet - Traveled, March 2024
Amazing trip, so well organised and you see a lot in the time! Mekong river boat a highlight as was meeting the elephants at Mandalao. Would highly recommend it!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/23/2024
Luma - Traveled, March 2024
We had an amazing time with our leader Katie (Lalada) and a great group of travellers. The highlight for sure is the visit at Mandalao Elephant Sanctuary, where we learned so much about their importance to preserve the forests, how important it is to protect them. And most of all, how important it is to fight against the tours that take advantage of animals. We are so happy that we contributed to this cause by choosing this trip! It was so a great trip!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/24/2024
Randall - Traveled, March 2024
Wanna make the world a better place? Wanna make yourself a better person? Go on an Intrepid tour, learn about our wonderful Earth, meet more fellow Earthlings. Boom/snap! (BucketlistsRus?)
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/22/2024
Jennifer - Traveled, March 2024
Well paced tour with great variety. A real peep into both countries culture and geography. Thanks to Emmy (and Kit) for making this a memorable trip!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/17/2024
Nigel - Traveled, February 2024
The clue is in the name. Intrepid have a social conscious and its travellers are taken into local communities without the sanitisation of a package holiday. It feels real, exploratory, intersection and filled with anticipation of what you might see.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/26/2024
Fiona - Traveled, February 2024
We had a really wonderful trip. It exceeded our expectations and delivered more than was described. Our tour leader was wonderful. I would recommend this trip without hesitation.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/26/2024
Stephen - Traveled, February 2024
Great tour company,leaning towards ethical Tours and visits supporting local populations
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/28/2024
Beverly - Traveled, February 2024
Very comprehensive and full trip lead by an amazing group guide Rabbit ??
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/26/2024
David - Traveled, February 2024
I had a great time on the tour to Bangkok, Northern Thailand and Laos. It was well organised and safe and also a lot of fun touring around in buses and down the Mekong River in a boat with good toilets and room to relax. Laos was very interesting.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/04/2024
Colette - Traveled, January 2024
Amazing trip to Thailand and Laos, the itinerary gave us a wonderful sample of the countries and our guide was amazing and went above and beyond to look after us!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/17/2024
Sandra - Traveled, January 2024
Touring Thailand and Laos with Intrepid is a wise and commended decision. From top guiding, to comfortable accommodation, experiencing various means of transport and types of food is both an exciting and different series of life challenges. Sailing down the mighty Mekong, feeding and walking with rescue elephants, and attending a Thai cooking class after visiting the local markets were some stand out occurrences. Do take this excellent trip!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/18/2024
Colette - Traveled, January 2024
This was our first organised tour, we are usually self-sufficient. We found that having a tour leader who organised everything and looked after us beautifully took the pressure off us and we saw and enjoyed the countries more.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/17/2024
Rosalind - Traveled, January 2024
The tour leader was great, the trip was a great introduction to SE Asia and travelling solo for first time and I would definitely book with Intrepid again.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/07/2024
Lisa - Traveled, January 2024
This is a great trip with a wide range of activities to fully experience Northern Thailand and Laos. There is a good balance of activities and free time, so whilst the trip can feel fast-paced there was also time to unwind, particularly along the Mekong boat trip. Particular highlights were the cooking course in Chiang Mai, the Elephant experience, Luang Prabang and the waterfall. The food was amazing throughout and standard of accommodation was decent considering the cost of the trip. Highly recommend!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/22/2024
Helen - Traveled, December 2023
A great trip with fun included activities. A great intro to Thailand and learned a lot about Laos. Tour guide was fantastic.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/17/2024
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