DAY 1 CHIANG RAI

On arrival transfer to the hotel and time at leisure. In the evening take the opportunity to explore Chiang Rai's little, but colorful night- and food market. Overnight in Chiang Rai.

DAY 2 CHIANG RAI - GOLDEN TRIANGLE - THATON

After breakfast first visit beautiful Wat Rong Khun (white temple). From here drive in northern direction to Chiang Saen, the former royal Thai town. Then follow the mighty Mekong River until you will reach the well known Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Laos and Myanmar (Burma) meet. Take a look in to the small Opium Museum. Travel on to Mae Sai, the border- and market town. An optional side trip to the Burmese border town of Tachilek can be arranged (one day border pass available). In the afternoon the tour continues through the mountain wilderness, passing many hill tribe villages, such as Akha, Yao or Lisu. You will stop at some of them. Late afternoon arrive at the small town of Thaton. Overnight at a riverside resort on the banks of the Kok River.

DAY 3 THATON - CHIANG MAI

In the morning drive up to Wat Thaton, the picturesque hill top temple with giant Buddha images. Here you can enjoy great views. Go further up in to the mountain wilderness to visit a remote Lahu hill tribe village. Then continue towards Chiang Mai. On route stop at a traditional rice mill, a mystic cave temple, as well as a local market and an orchid farm. If you wish to do so, then a side trip to an elephant camp can be arranged, too. Before you arrive at the hotel take a brief sightseeing tour in the northern capital. Overnight in the city center of Chiang Mai.

DAY 4 CHIANG MAI - LUANG PRABANG

Start in the morning to see more highlights of Chiang Mai, such as Suthep mountain temple, the landmark of the city. After lunch transfer to the airport and short (one hour) flight to Luang Prabang. A representative of our Laotian partner agency will welcome you. Transfer to the hotel. There is some time left to explore the former royal town on the banks of the Mekong River. Overnight in Luang Prabang.

DAY 5 LUANG PRABANG

After breakfast enjoy a scenic boat trip upstream on the Mekong River to the junction of the Ou River. See the holy Thum Ting caves with its enshrining numorous Buddha images. In the afternoon drive to the picturesque Kuangsi waterfall (opportunity to take a bath). On route stop at a Hmong hill tribe village. Finally take a tour through the former royal town, which will show you the National Museum (the former Royal Palace) and some of the famous ancient temples. Spend another night in Luang Prabang.

DAY 6 LUANG PRABANG - VIENTIANE

In the morning transfer to the airport and then take a short (40 minutes) flight to the Laotian capital of Vientiane. Transfer to the hotel in the city center. After lunch start for a sightseeing tour in Vientiane, which includes all major sights, such as the That Luang stupa, Pratu Xai, Wat Si Saket as well as the central market. Overnight in Vientiane.

DAY 7 VIENTIANE

Transfer to the airport or Lao/Thai border at the Friendship Bridge near Nong Khai. Also transfer all the way to Udon Thani (Thailand) is possible, depends on your further schedule.

REMARKS/FLEXIBILITY:

Visa for Laos available on arrival in Luang Prabang against a fee of US$ 30.- (you should bring a passport photo with you).
This program is also available vice versa with start in Vientiane and end in Chiang Rai. Also start in Chiang Mai is possible.
The 2 days/1 night Mekong river cruise from Houay Xai to Luang Prabang (see our tour package LAO-703) can be combined with this itinerary as well.
Additional nights in Luang Prabang and/or Vientiane can be added to this itinerary.

PRICE INCLUDES:

Air-conditioned transportation during the tour, English speaking tour guide, all transfers and excursions as mentioned in the above itinerary, accommodation at good middle class hotels/resorts incl. breakfast, half board (lunch during tours), entrance fees, air tickets Chiang Mai - Luang Prabang and Luang Prabang - Vientiane

NOT INCLUDED:

Visa for Laos, drinks, tips and personal expenses