CLASSIC LAOS

Day 1 Arrive Luang Prabang

Arrive in picturesque Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage town in the north of Laos. Spend your first evening sipping a Beerlao as you watch the sun set over the Mekong River.

Overnight: Belmond La Residence Phou Vao

Day 2 Highlights of Luang Prabang with Dr Frances Engelmann

Enjoy a walking tour of the Old Town in the company of Dr Francis Engelmann, a writer and UNESCO-consultant who has lived in Luang Prabang for over two decades and was instrumental in securing World Heritage status for Laos' ancient capital. Stroll down hidden backstreets to admire the city's mish-mash of French colonial and traditional Laotian architecture, stopping to marvel at glittering royal palaces and Buddhist temples. Dr Engelmann will share his peerless knowledge of Luang Prabang, and you'll gain a fascinating insight into Laos' history and people.

Overnight: Belmond La Residence Phou Vao

Day 3 Alms procession and Kuang Si Waterfall

At dawn enjoy what is easily one of the most enduring images of Luang Prabang: rows of silent monks padding meditatively through the misty streets in their saffron-orange robes collecting offerings from almsgivers. Afterwards, be driven out of Luang Prabang to enjoy breakfast at the top of the iconic Kuang Si Waterfall, before the crowds arrive. The balance of the day is at leisure to visit the shops and markets or simply relax by the hotel's pool.

Overnight: Belmond La Residence Phou Vao

Day 4 Mindfulness on The Mekong

Today begins at a wellness centre overlooking the Mekong River, where you will be introduced to Ms. Korn, a devout Buddhist and wellness specialist who will be leading your mindfulness experience. Enjoy a welcome drink before Ms. Korn helps you to create your own flower offering. Learn more about almsgiving, the history, customs, and traditional ways of behaving in a Buddhist country before going to the temple. When ready, board a beautiful wooden boat for a short cruise on the Mekong River, which brings you to the historical temples of Wat Had Siaw and nearby Nong Sa Keo; built in 1657 especially for its peaceful setting which is ideal for Meditation. Learn more about Buddhist practises and spend time meditating with the monks at this special place. At the end of the morning, you will be returned by boat to Luang Prabang, but taking the slow route to allow you to take in the scenes of local villagers and riverside life. Before you head back to the hotel, visit the excellent "Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre", which gives a great insight into the rich and diverse ethnic and cultural blend in Laos.

Overnight: Belmond La Residence Phou Vao

Day 5 Fly south to Pakse

Take a short flight to Pakse this morning and drive to your riverside accommodation in Champasak. The further south you travel in Laos, the slower time becomes and the more laid back you feel. Champasak is sleepy and peaceful and offers real therapy for the senses. Tonight, take a boat ride to Don Daeng island to watch the sunset with sundowners.

Overnight: La Residence Phou Vao

Day 6 4,000 Island hopping by bicycle

A tangled archipelago of tiny islands and sandbars marooned in a pocket of the Mekong close to the Cambodian border, Si Phan Don (or the 4,000 islands) is the closest you'll get to the beach in landlocked Laos. Only a handful of the islands are inhabited, so it's easy to get off the main tourist route by cruising from island to island. Cycle winding dirt roads and use local boats to island hop, before enjoying a traditional Laotian lunch made for you by a local family. Head back by boat and bicycle before being driven to your hotel in the early evening.

Overnight: The River Resort

Day 7 The Bolaven Plateau by vintage jeep

The Bolaven Plateau is an area of outstanding natural beauty, filled with coffee plantations, remote waterfalls and ethnic minority villages. The best way to explore is by vintage 4x4 jeep, so you can get off-grid and splash through rivers and along backroads, stopping at a local farm for lunch.

Overnight: The River Resort

Day 8 Breakfast at Wat Phou and afternoon at leisure

Rise early this morning to visit the ancient temple complex of Wat Phou, before it is open to the public. Stroll with your private guide amidst the remarkably well-preserved complex of monuments, many containing great works of art, and all expressing intense religious conviction and commitment. Explore the grounds and temples before climbing the stairs to the main sanctuary, located on a terrace at the foot of the cliff where you can enjoy a picnic breakfast with a panoramic view of the surrounding land and Mekong River. Head back to your hotel in the late morning, for an afternoon or rest and relaxation.

Overnight: The River Resort

Day 9 Depart 

Depart Laos today, either by flying from Pakse or driving three hours to the Thai border and flying from Ubon Ratchathani.