Laos Archives · Asian Trails https://www.asiantrails.travel/trail-country/laos/ Asian Trails Tue, 07 Nov 2023 02:20:21 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 Luang Prabang Wellness Experience https://www.asiantrails.travel/trail/luang-prabang-wellness-experience/ Fri, 04 Aug 2023 04:46:38 +0000 https://www.asiantrails.travel/?post_type=trail&p=1032497 A full day of health and healing, including morning yoga at a waterfall, meditation with a novice monk and a traditional massage.

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Luang Prabang Wellness Experience

Luang Prabang
Wellness Experience

A full day of health and healing, including morning yoga at a waterfall,
meditation with a novice monk and a traditional massage.

WHY THIS TOUR?

This experience offers a complete immersion into Lao wellness, including an early morning yoga session, meditation at a temple and a relaxing massage treatment. Guests witness the beautiful Kuang Si Waterfalls, visit Wat Pa Phai, the ‘Monastery of the Bamboo Forest’ and receive a blessing from a monk.

TRAIL ITINERARY

Luang Prabang Wellness Experience

08:00 - 16:00

The day starts with an early morning drive towards Kuang Si Waterfalls where you can refresh your mind, body and spirit with a mindful yoga session. Your experienced yoga instructor guides you through 30 minutes of meditation followed by a one-hour yoga practice. After the session, enjoy breakfast surrounded by the sights and sounds of the forest.

Take a walk through the forest and pass by the bear sanctuary, which is helping to rescue and rehabilitate sun bears and Asiatic black bears. You then arrive at Kuang Si Waterfalls, the largest waterfall near Luang Prabang with three tiers leading to a 50-metre drop. This is a popular spot for both tourists and locals to enjoy swimming in the spectacular azure pools. After enjoying your time at the waterfalls, return to town for lunch at L’Elephant restaurant.

In the afternoon, meet a former novice monk who will guide you on a spiritual journey. Walk to a nearby temple called Wat Pa Phai, which means ‘Monastery of the Bamboo Forest’. This is one of the oldest temples in Luang Prabang and, above its gilded wooden facade, the structure is adorned with a classic Tai-Lao fresco depicting everyday scenes of late 19th-century Lao life.

At the temple, the former novice monk offers personal insights into Buddhist culture, architecture, temple etiquette and the daily life of novices and monks. This is your opportunity to find out everything you would like to know about Buddhism in Laos and to gain a deeper understanding of Buddhist principles and practices. Head inside the temple learn more about local spiritual customs and take part in a meditation session. Practice the same meditation techniques that are typically taught at the temple and gain an understanding of the importance of meditation in Buddhist life. After the mediation, the head monk gives you his blessings for good mental and spiritual health.

End the day with more health and healing traditions with a Soul Pampering treatment at Le Spa, Sofitel Luang Prabang. This two-hour experience is one of the spa’s signature therapies and includes aromatherapy and long stroke-oil massage. It will soothe your body and help improve lymphatic drainage and circulation of the blood. The treatment ends with a 30-minute foot massage.

THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW

×

INCLUSIONS

  • Tours and transfers with English-speaking, licensed assistance
  • Transportation for tour and transfers by air-conditioned minivan
  • All entrance fees for visits as mentioned in the program
  • Lunch as indicated in the program (food only)
  • All applicable taxes and service charges
  • Yoga, meditation and spa

EXCLUSIONS

  • Lao visa fees on arrival
  • Personal insurance
  • Supplement for optional services
  • Accommodation is not included in this tour
  • Expenditure of personal nature such as drinks, souvenirs, laundry, etc.
  • Other activities not mentioned in the itinerary

GOOD TO KNOW

  • Natural elements of any kind have a destructive effect on electronic equipment. It the customer’s own responsibility to ensure that any camera, mobile telephone or other device is properly wrapped and protected against these elements. We cannot be held responsible in any way for negligence and/or not following suggestions for any damage related to this;
  • We reserve the right to make necessary changes to the excursion/tour in case of unfavourable weather conditions or situations where we are forced to make alterations to guarantee the safety of our guests;
  • Tours and excursions often include obstacles of various kinds that may not make this excursion suitable for wheelchair users or guests with limited mobility;
  • The protection of the country’s flora, fauna and its historical and cultural treasures is of immense importance for us. We will not pursue any activities that are not in line with our animal, wildlife and environment protection principles;
  • Please ensure that you bring sunglasses, a hat /cap, non-slip shoes like sturdy sandals or trainers, camera, loose comfortable clothes, swim wear, personal toiletries, extra clothes and towel, sunblock with a high SPF factor when traveling with us. Even when it is cloudy, the sun still has an immense power;
  • All mentioned times, durations and stops are based on approximations and may change due to unforeseen circumstances, weather and traffic conditions beyond our control;

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8 Days Family Journey in Laos https://www.asiantrails.travel/trail/8-days-family-journey-in-laos/ Thu, 18 May 2023 03:20:03 +0000 https://www.asiantrails.travel/?post_type=trail&p=1031022 Walk to a picturesque waterfall near Luang Prabang, spend a day at an elephant sanctuary, explore natural wonders in Vang Vieng, cruise down the Nam Song River and end in the capital city of Vientiane.

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8 Days Family Journey in Laos

8 Days
A Family Journey in Laos

An ethical elephant experience, a rustic river cruise,
cave adventures and more – this eight-day journey will inspire the whole family

WHY THIS TOUR?

The journey begins in Luang Prabang, with an overview of the city’s cultural, artistic and spiritual heritage. Walk to a picturesque waterfall in the forest, spend a day at an elephant sanctuary and consider optional excursions to learn Lao cooking or go horseback riding at an organic farm. Continue south to explore caves, villages and other natural wonders in Vang Vieng, including a cruise down the Nam Song River. The journey ends in the capital city of Vientiane where the family can explore historical landmarks and experience a traditional village blessing before returning home.

With multiple options along the way, this itinerary is ideal for both families with young children or families with teenagers. The journey utilises sustainable modes of travel, including the nation’s new high speed railway and tuk tuks. The visit to the elephant sanctuary contributes to funding wildlife conservation projects.

TRAIL ITINERARY

Day 1 | 8 Days A Family Journey in Laos

Day 1

Arrival Luang Prabang                                                                          [-]

We kick start this immersive tour in charming UNESCO-crowned Luang Prabang. Upon arrival in the former royal capital, we are met at the airport and transferred to the hotel, with the rest of the day free to explore our surroundings. Luang Prabang is a stunning destination that has kept true to tradition. This compact city is packed full of ornate temples and historic buildings. It is also surrounded by pristine natural beauty that takes in jungle, sweeping farmland, cascading waterfalls and ancient caves. Settle into life in Laos’ beating spiritual heart on this excellent adventure. We recommend climbing the town’s highest hill, Mount Phousi, in time for sunset. The 300 steps are rewarded with a splendid vista of the city and the countryside sprawling into the distance. Settle into life in Laos’ beating spiritual heart on the opening day of this excellent adventure.

Overnight at Sanctuary Luang Prabang

Day 2 | 8 Days A Family Journey in Laos

Day 2

Luang Prabang – Tuk Tuk City Tour & Kuang Si Waterfall            [B]

Explore ancient temples and marvel at historic treasures on this fascinating tour. We start our exploration at Wat Xieng Thong. Known as the Golden City Temple, this 16th century complex is adorned in ornate coloured glass and it is regarded as Luang Prabang’s most beautiful temple. We then continue to the Royal Palace Museum. Built in 1904 as the Royal Palace of King Sisavang Vong, this site houses some of the country’s most important relics. We then head to Wat Mai to admire its exquisitely-carved veranda. We end the morning by visiting the TAEC Museum, an independent ethnographic resource centre dedicated to the country’s diverse ethnic groups. After lunch, we take a scenic 32-km drive to stunning Kuang Si Waterfalls, with the opportunity to take a swim. We then visit the nearby Asian Bear Sanctuary to learn about the plight of these animals. At 3.30 pm we head back to respective hotels. An optional activity is a private two-hour sunset cocktail cruise along the Mekong River.

Overnight at Sanctuary Luang Prabang

Day 3 | 8 Days A Family Journey in Laos

Day 3

Luang Prabang – Mandalao                                                                                           [B, L, D]

Walk in the shadow of magnificent elephants during a truly special ethical experience. At 8.30 am we will be met at the hotel lobby by our Mandalao Elephant Sanctuary guide and driven 14 km out of town to the camp. Upon arrival, we receive an introduction before crossing the Nam Khan River to watch the mighty beasts bathing. Next, we embark on a 2.5 km trek following the elephants through thick jungle bursting with tropical flora and fauna to Huay Nok stream. It is then time to say goodbye to the gentle giants as we trek back to Mandalao for a traditional organic lunch. At about 1.30 pm, we return to the hotel with the rest of the day at leisure. This unique day includes a very convivial laotian barbecue dinner, a sindat.

Option | Extension of the morning encounter with Laotian elephants                   [L]

We have the opportunity to extend our exceptional encounter with the giant pachyderms. Our half day becomes a full day including a total walk of 5.5 km on flat and easy terrain. Lunch is then taken in the jungle and a stop at the Tad Kuang Song waterfall allows us to enjoy a cool refreshing swin in the crystal-clear water. Return to Luang Prabang around 4.30 pm.

Overnight at Sanctuary Luang Prabang

Day 4 | 8 Days A Family Journey in Laos

Day 4

Luang Prabang – Free at leisure                                                                                    [B] 

Day free at leisure. No driver / No guide.

Option | Full Day at Nahm Dong Park                                                                      [-]

A relaxing day spent in a beautiful park reveals nature in all its glory. We set off at 8 am on a 10-km drive to Nahm Dong Park for a full-day of serenity and peace. The extensive green space is home to lush greenery, exquisite flora and fauna and idyllic water features. We can lounge with snacks in picnic places, some under straw roofs to shield from the sun. One of the activities we can participate in is the traditional art of paper making using bark from the mulberry tree. This ancient art form is widely practiced in Laos. The woody fibre from the inner bark of the mulberry tree is fashioned to make high-quality paper and other products. Lunch is to our own account, with multiple eating options in the vicinity. In the afternoon, we can spend time relaxing, swimming, and walking in this natural oasis of tranquility. At around 2 pm, we are collected and transferred back to the hotel, with the rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight at Sanctuary Luang Prabang

Option | 2 Days – 1 Night Family Experience at Nam Khan Ecolodge                                         

Day 1: Tune out and get a taste of tranquillity at Nam Khan Ecolodge. At 2.45 pm, we embark on a 15-minute drive to this organic farm and riverfront resort hugged by stunning natural scenery. Upon arrival, we will be welcomed with a home-made drink and check-in, with some time to sink into our serene surroundings. At 9 am, we learn to cook like a local and join one of the chefs on a culinary journey from farm to harvest and onto the plate. After cooking up a storm in the kitchen, we feast on the fruits of our labour and have the rest of the day to relax in the soothing sound of nature. Connect with nature and get a flavour of local life.

Overnight at Nam Khan Eco Lodge

Day 2: With a strong emphasis on ethology, Ms. Saita our instructor of today with over 25 years of experience will guide your children through a one-hour horseback riding activity with respect for the horses and their natural behaviour to gain their confidence in harmony. You meet at 8am for your first encounter with your new equine friends. After check out, enjoy a family tubing session on the Nam Khan River, a must-do activity in Laos! Lunch is served at the restaurant and the rest of the afternoon is free at leisure.

Day 5 | 8 Days A Family Journey in Laos

Day 5

Luang Prabang – Vang Vieng                                                                         [B] 

We take the time to savour the last moments in the former royal capital before marvelling at the beauty of the landscape of Vang Vieng. At 12.45 pm our driver and guide collect us in our hotel lobby for a 40-min drive to Luang Prabang Railway Station. Our train will leave the station platform at 1.45 pm sharp for an arrival at our next destination 1 hour later. After checking-in, we board a traditional boat and cruise down the Nam Song River past impressive karsts that rise from each side. Vang Vieng is home to a striking landscape of majestic limestone mountain peaks, scenic cliffs and a patchwork of rice paddies, plus the Nam Song River winding through the town. It is also known as the ‘Giulin of Laos’ due to the dramatic karsts pierced by an intriguing network of caves – a reference to the destination in China.

Overnight at Tmark Resort

Day 1 | 6 Days A Family Journey in Laos

Day 6

Vang Vieng  – Free at leisure – Vientiane                                          [B, D] 

Day free at leisure. No driver / No guide.

After a day at our leisure with multiple optional activities, we set off on a 60-minute train journey to Vientiane (19h10/20h10). Laos’ national capital Vientiane sits aside the Mekong River and has been the capital since 1563. French colonial mansions, smart tree-lined boulevards, glittering temples, river serpent naga statues and wandering Buddhist monks are features of South-East Asia’s smallest capital. It became the seat of government when King Setthathirat transferred power from Luang Prabang because of ongoing incursions from Burmese forces. Modern day Vientiane is an easy place to explore on foot. The city’s most significant sight is the 16th-century stupa of That Luang, a landmark that is the symbol of Lao independence and sovereignty. Other attractions include the riverside boulevard of Fa Ngum and Patuxai, Vientiane’s version of the Arc de Triomphe. As befits the capital city, there are abundant accommodation options, great places to dine and a lively nightlife. Dinner is “to go” and will be taken on the train.

Option | Half Day Vang Vieng Kayak Experience

Vang Vieng is known for its incredible beauty and this adventure tour starts 10 km away in the ethnic Khmu village of Viengsamay. Here we get an introduction into kayaking ahead of journeying down the beautiful Nam Song River which is framed by impressive limestone mountains. We continue downstream to Tham None, Sleeping Cave, which is one of the largest caves in Vang Vieng and this served as a rescue shelter for villagers during the Second Indochina War. Today it is home to thousands of bats. In the rainy season we can swim through the entrance to the cave. The final leg of the journey is a gentle paddle that takes us back to Vang Vieng in time to catch the sunset.

Option | Full Day Adventure in Vang Vieng

This programme is perfect for those that wish to exercise and relax at the same time. We will get the chance to explore four different caves and two villages. We set-off by truck up about 15km north from Vang Vieng, eventually taking a boat to cross the Nam Song river (if rainy season) or a bridge (if dry season). Our guide will lead us to Tham Xang (Elephant Cave) where we will see ancient Buddha Statues and an amazing natural elephant limestone sculpture. As we make our way through the cave, we will learn more of its history and interesting past. We will then visit a Lao Village nearby from where we will trek past rice fields and beautiful mountains before reaching two other caves – Tham Hoy and Tham Loup. Within these caves are more lovely Buddha statues and stalactites. A short trek will take us to Tham Nam (Water Cave), where we can cool off and tube inside the cave before enjoying our barbecue lunch made naturally and served on banana leaves. We’ll finally trek from the water cave to a Hmong Village. They are one of the minority groups in Laos that have existed here for hundreds of years, living peacefully in the mountains. We are back in town around 3 pm.

Option | Essential Tour

Today we enter a subterranean world that has both cultural and historical significance. We start our exploration at Tham Chang Cave, an elevated viewpoint that provides a stunning view over the spectacular valley. This cavern was used during the Indochina War as a place of sanctuary for villagers escaping bombing raids. Years later, the wider area provided a place to stay for people in peace time and they took to cultivation of the nearby fields. We continue to Tham Phu Kham Cave, a place considered sacred by the Lao people. This is also a major tourist attraction due to the lagoon within. The mesmerizing turquoise waters are perfect for a dip after the climb to Tham Chang Cave. The main cave chamber contains a Thai bronze reclining Buddha and deeper galleries that branch off into the mountain’s interior. We then head to an organic farm restaurant for lunch, followed by a cruise along the Nam Song River by long-tail boat and a road transfer back to the hotel.

Overnight at Salana Hotel

Day 7 | 8 Days A Family Journey in Laos

Day 7

Vientiane – City Tour                                                                              [B] 

We can delve into Laos’ rich history at some ancient sacred sites. At 9 am we set off from the hotel to Wat Sisaket, Vientiane’s oldest monastery that dates back to 1818. We continue to nearby Ho Phra Keo, a former royal temple that now serves as a museum, with an exquisite collection of Buddhist art and sculptures. After lunch at our own account, we head to the COPE Visitor Centre to learn about the devastating consequences of war, the country’s sobering unexploded ordnance problem, the struggle of survivors and innovative work to combat these issues. We then proceed to That Luang, a golden stupa that features a banana flower-shaped stupa. This is the most revered shrine in Laos. Next, we stop at Patuxai, a striking arch influenced by Paris’ Arc de Triomphe. We return to the hotel at about 4 pm, with the rest of the day at leisure. Today’s itinerary traces Laos’ past to the modern day. An evening activity provides an even deeper insight into the country’s fascinating culture through participation in a baci ceremony. This calling of the spirits ritual is unique to Laos and it has been practiced for centuries. It involves tying white cotton strings around the wrist, while prayers are chanted by a shaman order to elicit good fortune.

Overnight at Salana Hotel

Day 8 | 8 Days A Family Journey in Laos

Day 8

Vientiane Departure                                                                                [B] 

After breakfast at the hotel, we have free time until our flight to pack in a solo sightseeing adventure before we check-out and head to the airport. Take a stroll round the compact charming capital and feast on street snacks from vendors that dot the city. Alternatively, explore the many ornate temples scattered throughout the city. When it is time, we will be collected from the hotel and transferred to the airport. This brings our unforgettable family journey in Laos to an end.

THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW

×

INCLUSIONS

  • Accommodations as mentioned in the itinerary
  • Tours and activities as mentioned in the itinerary with English-language guide
  • Transportation by car / mini-van / coach with professional driver
  • All applicable taxes and service charges
  • All entrance and donation fees for visits as mentioned in the description.

EXCLUSIONS

  • Lao visa fees on arrival
  • Optional tours, inclusions of any kind and other services that are not outlined in the tour description
  • Personal expenses such as meals, drinks, tips and gratuities, shopping, portage fees and optional tours, unless otherwise stated
  • Compulsory Christmas, country-specific festival and/or New Year dinner at included hotels
  • Single supplement charges for single travelers, where applicable
  • Any airline tickets, visa fees, additional transportation cost from and to the general meeting point
  • Supplements for transfers for customers arriving or departing from any airport or resorts located outside the general pick-up and drop-off locations
  • Hotel expenses of a personal nature: this includes mini-bar consumption, laundry, room service, any telephone or other communication cost not mentioned in the program
  • Travel insurance coverage for customers (highly recommended)

GOOD TO KNOW

  • We will do all possible to comply with any dietary requirements during this excursion; it may not always be possible to confirm your wishes in advance based on the choice of menu
  • To avoid any issues pertaining obtaining an arrival visa at the airport, please ensure that your passport contains at least two empty pages. Failure to do so may result in not gaining entrance into the Laos
  • We always will make efforts to confirm the exact pick-up time upon reservation. For any operational issues in which are not able to confirm the exact pick-up time in advance, we reserve the right to inform you the day before the departure of the tour
  • Please note pickup and drop-off services may not be confirmed for customers staying at private residences, apartment complexes, or other non-registered tourism accommodations. Customers may be asked to meet at a nearby hotel for pick-up and drop off
  • It is the responsibility of the customer to provide us with the correct hotel information, should pick-up and drop-off services be included in the package. Any changes in accommodation outside 24 hours will be handled accordingly: changes within 24 hours may be on request
  • In the event of no-show or change of accommodation without prior consent and confirmation from us within 24 hours may result in the applicable cancellation charges as outlined in the terms and conditions.

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Vang Vieng Trekking and Cave Explorer https://www.asiantrails.travel/trail/vang-vieng-trekking-and-cave-explorer/ Thu, 03 Mar 2022 07:19:40 +0000 https://www.asiantrails.travel/?post_type=trail&p=1028210 Inside Vang Vieng’s dramatic mountains lie otherworldly caves and mysterious caverns just waiting to be explored. Many contain strangely-shaped stalactites and stalagmites that resemble objects or animals.

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Vang Vieng Trekking and Cave Explorer

Vang Vieng Trekking
and Cave Explorer

The magical karst topography surrounding Vang Vieng is riddled with limestone caves.
Explore dark caverns, venture down eerie rock corridors, immerse yourself in
clear springs, and hear the stories and legends behind these ancient caves.

WHY THIS TOUR?

Inside Vang Vieng’s dramatic mountains lie otherworldly caves and mysterious caverns just waiting to be explored. Many contain strangely-shaped stalactites and stalagmites that resemble objects or animals. Tham Xang Cave means ‘elephant cave’ as it is named after a stalactite resembling a jumbo, while Tham Hai Cave is nicknamed ‘snail cave’ due to a snail-shaped stalactite.

Throughout history these caves have been used by the locals as hideouts from travelling marauders, and more recently as a refuge during the Laotian Civil War. They are full of fascinating stories and legends. Embark on a thrilling exploration through the eerie darkness of these natural, undeveloped caves. Pass by strange formations that glow in the torchlight and listen to the water dripping from the stalactites.

TRAIL ITINERARY

Vang Vieng Trekking and Cave Explorer

09:00 - 16:00

Travelling 14 km north of Vang Vieng, you will start your exploration at Tham Xang, the ‘elephant cave’. Situated on the banks of the Nam Song River, this highly revered cave is an important Buddhist temple containing a remarkable elephant formation and many Buddhist statues including a golden, reclining Buddha. Pilgrims often visit the cave to sprinkle water on the elephant’s head and pray for good health.

Continue to Tham Hoi Cave to see the snail-shaped formation. This cave winds its way deep into the mountain side and contains an underground lake. Enter into the dark cave passing a Buddha image and then venture down the numerous meandering corridors that contain wonderful limestone formations.

Back out in the daylight, you can cool off with a dip in a refreshing pool of spring water that lies at the mouth of Tham Nam Cave. After a picnic lunch, trek through lush green rice paddies and vegetable fields to the Hmong village of Phathao that lies at the foot of a mountain.

The return journey to Vang Vieng will vary according to the water level of the river. One option is by kayak, paddling along the tranquil waters passing by scenes of riverside life backed by the dramatic mountains.

THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW

×

INCLUSIONS

  • A full-day tour with a professional English-speaking guide
  • Transportation by local transportation with professional driver.
  • All entrance fees for visits as mentioned in the description.
  • All applicable taxes and service charges
  • Snacks, drinks and /or refreshments during the tour
  • Lunch as indicated in the itinerary (food only)

EXCLUSIONS

  • Lao visa fees upon arrival
  • Personal expenses such as meals, drinks, tips and gratuities, shopping, portage fees and optional tours, unless otherwise stated
  • Hotel accommodation in the destination of commencement
  • Compulsory Christmas, country-specific festival and/or New Year dinner at included hotels
  • Single supplement charges for single travelers, where applicable
  • Any airline tickets, visa fees, additional transportation cost from and to the general meeting point
  • Supplements for transfers for customers arriving or departing from any airport or resorts located outside the general pick-up and drop-off locations
  • Hotel expenses of a personal nature, should an overnight be included: this includes mini-bar consumption, laundry, room service, any telephone or other communication cost not mentioned in the program
  • Travel insurance coverage for customers (highly recommendable)

GOOD TO KNOW

  • This tour is operated on full private basis with English-speaking guide.
  • Return transfers for this excursion apply only / are inclusive for customers staying in and inside Vang Vieng. Transfers outside these areas, including any accommodation outside this area such as Luang Prabang, Vientiane, Nam Ngum Lake, and Phonsavan are excluded. Supplements apply for customers who want to join this excursion outside one of these regions.
  • Customers are reminded to submit their passport number and expiration date with their reservation
  • These are essential requirements as outlined by local immigration regulations
  • We will do all possible to comply with any dietary requirements during this excursion; it may not always be possible to confirm your wishes in advance based on the choice of local restaurant.
  • We regret to inform you that this excursion is not suitable for wheelchair users.
  • This tour includes driving over uneven paths, surfaces and off-road bumpy roads, unsuitable for pregnant women, people with neck and back problems and those with limited mobility.
  • We will always make the effort to confirm the exact pick-up time upon reservation. For any operational issues in which are not able to confirm the exact pick-up time in advance, we reserve the right to inform you the day before the departure of the tour.
  • Please note pick-up and drop-off services may not be confirmed for customers staying at private residences, apartment complexes, or other non-registered tourism accommodations. Customers may be asked to meet at a nearby hotel for pick-up and drop off.
  • Natural elements of any kind have a destructive effect on electronic equipment. It is the customer’s own responsibility to ensure that any camera, mobile telephone or other device is properly wrapped and protected against these elements. We cannot be held responsible in any way for negligence and/or not following suggestions for any damage related to this.
  • Please ensure that you bring sunglasses, a hat /cap and sunblock with a high SPF factor when traveling with us on this tour – even when it is cloudy, the sun’s rays are still very powerful.
  • We reserve the right to make necessary changes to the excursion in case of unfavourable weather conditions or situations where we are forced to make alterations to guarantee the safety of our guests.
  • The protection of the country’s flora and fauna is of immense importance for us. We will not pursue any activities for guests that are not in line with our animal, wildlife and environment protection principles.
  • It is the responsibility of the customer to provide us with the correct hotel information, should pick-up and drop-off services be included in the package. Any changes in accommodation outside 24 hours will be handled accordingly: changes within 24 hours may be on request.
  • In the event of no-show or change of accommodation without prior consent and confirmation from us within 24 hours may result in the applicable cancellation charges as outlined in the terms and conditions.
  • It is recommended to bring a rain coat, good walking shoes, insect repellent and a water bottle with you.

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Nam Ou River Adventure with Ethnic Villages https://www.asiantrails.travel/trail/nam-ou-river-adventure-with-ethnic-villages/ Thu, 17 Feb 2022 15:33:26 +0000 https://www.asiantrails.travel/?post_type=trail&p=1027942 An important Mekong tributary, the Nam Ou River passes through some of the most stunning scenery in Laos. The riverbanks are scattered with tiny, untouched villages that are home to ethnic minorities who live simple lives – many without electricity.

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Nam Ou River Adventure with Ethnic Villages

Nam Ou River Adventure
with Ethnic Villages

Take in the wild riverside scenery on a cruise down the Nam Ou River to a quaint riverside
hamlet backed by craggy limestone mountains. Hike through lush rice fields, meet
ethnic tribes and explore an ancient cave once used as a bomb shelter.

WHY THIS TOUR?

An important Mekong tributary, the Nam Ou River passes through some of the most stunning scenery in Laos. The riverbanks are scattered with tiny, untouched villages that are home to ethnic minorities who live simple lives – many without electricity.

Muang Ngoi is a small hamlet on the riverbank and accessible only by boat. Although humble, this 15th century village has suffered a turbulent past. During the Indochina War (1955 – 1975) it was heavily bombed, forcing the villagers and soldiers to take shelter in nearby caves, often for many days and weeks. These days, it is much more peaceful. Backed by majestic limestone karsts, this quaint village exudes a tranquil and mellow vibe.

TRAIL ITINERARY

Nam Ou River Adventure with Ethnic Villages

08:00 - 15:00

From Nong Khiaw, board a traditional wooden boat and sit back to enjoy the journey along the Nam Ou River. Take in the scenery of wild jagged mountain peaks and rustic villages. Pass by local fishermen on boats, giggling children swimming in the murky water and women washing clothes on the riverbank. You will stop at riverside villages to visit various ethnic tribes and to get an insight into daily life in such a remote part of Laos. In a weaving village, watch the skilled artisans using simple, traditional looms to create beautiful, handmade silk and cotton textiles.

On arrival in Muang Ngoi you can relax over a lunch of traditional Laotian food. Many bombs were dropped on this area during the Indochina War, and the locals have repurposed the bomb casings as flower pots, fence poles and water troughs – all of which can be seen around the village.

A short but scenic hike through the rice fields will lead you to a historic cave used as a bomb shelter during the war. Your guide will explain more about these dark times and the history of the cave.

The boat will then gently cruise back down the river to Nong Khiaw, enjoying a beautiful sunset along the way.

THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW

×

INCLUSIONS

  • A full-day tour with a professional English-speaking guide.
  • Transportation by tuk-tuk and long-tail boat with professional driver/ captain.
  • All entrance fees for visits as mentioned in the description.
  • All applicable taxes and service charges

EXCLUSIONS

  • Lao visa fees on arrival
  • Tours, inclusions of any kind and other services that are not outlined in the tour description
  • Personal expenses such as meals, drinks, tips and gratuities, shopping, portage fees and optional tours, unless otherwise stated
  • Hotel accommodation in the destination of commencement.
  • Compulsory Christmas, country-specific festival and/or New Year dinner at included hotels
  • Single supplement charges for single travelers, where applicable
  • Any airline tickets, visa fees, additional transportation cost from and to the general meeting point
  • Supplements for transfers for customers arriving or departing from any airport or resorts located outside the general pick-up and drop-off locations
  • Hotel expenses of a personal nature, should an overnight be included: this includes mini-bar consumption, laundry, room service, any telephone or other communication cost not mentioned in the program
  • Travel insurance coverage for customers (highly recommendable)

GOOD TO KNOW

  • This tour is operated on full private basis with English-speaking guide only.
  • Return transfers for this excursion apply only / are inclusive for customers staying in and inside Nong Khiaw and accommodation within the vicinity of Nong Khiaw along the Mekong. Transfers outside these areas, including any accommodation outside this area such as the Ou River, Luang Prabang, and Muang Ngoi are excluded. Supplements apply for customers who want to join this excursion outside one of these regions.
  • Customers are reminded to submit their passport number and expiration date with their reservation. These are essential requirements as outlined by local immigration regulations
  • We will do all possible to comply with any dietary requirements during this excursion; it may not always be possible to confirm your wishes in advance based on the choice of local restaurant.
  • We regret to inform you that this excursion is not suitable for wheelchair users.
  • Part of this excursion includes walking over unpaved roads and paths. This may not suit guests with walking issues. Bear in mind that such paths may turn slippery / muddy after a rain shower. We suggest wearing good walking shoes, preferred closed shoes.
  • We will always make the effort to confirm the exact pick-up time upon reservation. For any operational issues in which are not able to confirm the exact pick-up time in advance, we reserve the right to inform you the day before the departure of the tour.
  • Please note pick-up and drop-off services may not be confirmed for customers staying at private residences, apartment complexes, or other non-registered tourism accommodations. Customers may be asked to meet at a nearby hotel for pick-up and drop off.
  • Due to the absence of ATM machines and credit cards payment portals, particularly on islands and inside nature reserves, we highly recommend to bring sufficient cash with you.
  • Natural elements of any kind have a destructive effect on electronic equipment. It is the customer’s own responsibility to ensure that any camera, mobile telephone or other device is properly wrapped and protected against these elements. We cannot be held responsible in any way for negligence and/or not following suggestions for any damage related to this.
  • Please ensure that you bring sunglasses, a hat /cap and sunblock with a high SPF factor when traveling with us on this tour – even when it is cloudy, the sun’s rays are still very powerful.
  • We reserve the right to make necessary changes to the excursion in case of unfavourable weather conditions or situations where we are forced to make alterations to guarantee the safety of our guests.
  • The protection of the country’s flora and fauna is of immense importance for us. We will not pursue any activities for guests that are not in line with our animal, wildlife and environment protection principles.
  • It is the responsibility of the customer to provide us with the correct hotel information, should pick-up and drop-off services be included in the package. Any changes in accommodation outside 24 hours will be handled accordingly: changes within 24 hours may be on request.
  • In the event of no-show or change of accommodation without prior consent and confirmation from us within 24 hours may result in the applicable cancellation charges as outlined in the terms and conditions.

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