Tour of Laos and Vietnam: Embark on a 16-day unforgettable journey through the beautiful landscapes and captivating cities of Laos and Vietnam. From the serene Vientiane to the bustling Ho Chi Minh City, visit revered Buddhist temples and ornate palaces, explore mystical caves and vibrant floating markets, cruise the breathtaking Halong Bay and the mighty Mekong River, and meet a kaleidoscope of fascinating people along the way.
I. Highlights Tour of Laos and Vietnam
1. Vientiane
+ Explore the highlights of Laos’ capital
+ Visit iconic sites like Pha That Luang and the Patuxay Monument
2. Vang Vieng
+ Browse the colorful Thalat Market
+ Explore the lush countryside
+ Visit the eerie Tham Jang Caves
3. Luang Prabang
+ Take a vintage tuk-tuk tour of the Old Quarter
+ Visit the bustling Morning Market
+ Marvel at the magnificent Wat Xiengthong
4. Khouangsi Waterfall
+ Swim in the crystal-clear pools beneath the waterfall
+ Meet friendly local minorities in nearby villages
5. Living The Land Farm
+ Experience the life of a rice farmer
+ Try ploughing the rice paddy with a water buffalo
6. Halong Bay
+ Sail around lush limestone islets on a deluxe junk boat
+ Kayak, swim, and explore the remarkable caves
7. Hanoi
+ Ride cyclo rickshaws through the French Quarter
+ See highlights including the Opera House and Ly Thai To Park
8. Hue
+ Admire the famous seven-story Thien Mu Pagoda
+ Discover the ancient walled Citadel and the Purple Palace
9. Hoi An
+ Enjoy some R&R in this enchanting riverside town
+ Stroll the cobbled streets and see the iconic Japanese Bridge
+ Tra Que Village
10. Ho Chi Minh City
+ Discover the highlights of the ‘Pearl of the Orient’ on a walking tour
+ Visit the sobering War Remnants Museum
11. Mekong Delta
+ Cruise the maze of waterways on a sampan
+ Visit local cottage industries and Dong Hoa Hiep Island
II. Itinerary of tour Laos and Vietnam
Day 1: Vientiane arrival
Welcome to Laos! Upon your arrival at Vientiane airport, you will be greeted and transferred to our hotel. After checking in, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. You can choose to relax and unwind from your journey or begin exploring the vibrant city of Vientiane on your own.
Stroll through the city's charming streets, visit local markets, or enjoy a meal at one of the many delightful restaurants. This is your time to acclimate and soak in the initial sights and sounds of Laos' capital.
Day 2: Vientiane City Tour
After breakfast, we embark on an exciting city tour of Laos' charming capital, Vientiane. Our tour of Laos begins with a visit to Wat Si Saket, the oldest temple in Vientiane, known for its cloister wall housing thousands of tiny Buddha images and rows of seated Buddhas. Next, we explore the former royal temple of Haw Pha Kaeo, which now serves as a museum of religious art and houses a collection of Lao and Khmer artifacts.
Continuing our tour of Laos, we visit the iconic Pha That Luang, a gold-covered large Buddhist stupa that is considered the most important national monument in Laos and a symbol of Lao sovereignty and Buddhist religion. Afterward, we head to the unique Buddha Park, home to an incredible array of Hindu and Buddhist sculptures, some of which are bizarre and intricate, making for an unforgettable experience.
Our tour of Laos also includes a visit to the COPE Centre, a charity that provides support to victims of unexploded bombs and mines, offering a sobering insight into the impact of war and the resilience of the human spirit.
We conclude our day with a spectacular sunset dinner beside the Mekong River, where you can relax and enjoy the serene beauty of the river as the sun sets, marking the perfect end to our enriching day in Vientiane.
Day 3: Vientiane – Vang Vieng
Our tour of Laos continues as we depart early from the capital, Vientiane, and journey north through the lush countryside to the peaceful village of Vang Vieng, nestled on a curve of the Nam Song River. This scenic drive offers a glimpse of rural Laos, with its verdant landscapes and serene atmosphere.
In the afternoon, we cross the Nam Song River to explore the other side of Vang Vieng. Our adventure takes us along a picturesque, unpaved route that winds through the stunning Vang Vieng countryside, passing small villages and expansive rice fields. The tranquility and beauty of the surroundings are truly captivating.
Our journey leads us to the famed Blue Lagoon and the Tham Pou Kham cave. The striking landscape, with its towering karst rock formations between Vang Vieng and the Blue Lagoon, is a sight to behold and adds immense value to our tour of Laos. Inside the Tham Pou Kham cave, we discover a maze of chambers, galleries, and crevices adorned with impressive stalagmites and stalactites. The cool, damp air inside the cave provides a refreshing escape from the heat.
After exploring the cave, we descend to the Blue Lagoon, a perfect spot to relax and unwind. Here, you can swim in the refreshing, clear waters or simply enjoy the serene environment, surrounded by the natural beauty of Laos. This idyllic location offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, making it a highlight of our tour of Laos.
Day 4: Vang Vieng – Luang Prabang
This morning, we venture into this remarkable Tham Jang cave, which holds historical significance as the refuge for local people during a Chinese invasion in the early 19th century. As we navigate through its impressive chambers, we admire the stunning stalactites and stalagmites, and learn about the cave's fascinating past.
After our cave exploration, we immerse ourselves in the local culture with a visit to Ban Huai Ngai village. This authentic Lao village offers a glimpse into traditional rural life. We interact with the friendly villagers, observe their daily activities, and gain insight into their customs and way of life. This visit provides a meaningful connection with the local community and enriches our understanding of Lao culture.
In the afternoon, we embark on a scenic journey north to the enchanting town of Luang Prabang. As we travel through the lush countryside, we are treated to breathtaking views of verdant hills, winding rivers, and picturesque landscapes. This route showcases the natural beauty of Laos, making the drive a memorable part of our tour.
Upon arrival in Luang Prabang, we settle into our accommodation and have the rest of the evening free to relax or begin exploring this UNESCO World Heritage site. Known for its well-preserved architecture, serene monasteries, and vibrant night markets, Luang Prabang promises an enchanting continuation of our journey through Laos.
Day 5: Luang Prabang visit
Consider rising early this morning to witness the daily ritual of saffron-clad monks making their way down the streets of Luang Prabang to collect alms from the local residents. This serene and spiritual experience offers a unique glimpse into the cultural and religious life of Laos.
Afterwards, we embark on a stylish tour of the old quarter of Luang Prabang aboard a vintage tuk-tuk. Our first stop is the bustling Morning Market, where we'll explore the vibrant array of local products and delicacies, gaining insight into the daily life and traditions of the Lao people.
Next, we visit the magnificent Wat Xiengthong temple, renowned for its classical Laotian architecture and intricate carvings. This historic temple is one of the most important in Laos and provides a deeper understanding of the country's rich spiritual heritage.
We then make our way to the former Royal Palace, now a national museum, where we delve into the history and culture of Luang Prabang. The museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts, including the sacred Prabang Buddha image, which the city is named after.
In the afternoon, our tour of Laos takes us to ethnic minority villages on our way to the stunning Khouangsi Waterfall. Here, we meet the locals and gain fascinating insights into their cultures and lifestyles. Continuing on, we arrive at the beautiful Khouangsi Waterfall, where you can choose to splash around in the turquoise pools, relax by the water's edge, or explore the scenic forest trails surrounding the falls. This enchanting location provides the perfect combination of natural beauty and cultural immersion, making it a highlight of our day in Luang Prabang.
Day 6: Living Land Farm Experience Tour of Laos
Today, we venture into the serene countryside surrounding Luang Prabang for a half-day visit to the Living Land Farm. Here, we immerse ourselves in the traditional practices of Lao agriculture, learning firsthand how rice is planted and cultivated in the lush rice paddies. A highlight of the day is the opportunity to try our hand at ploughing the fields alongside a gentle water buffalo—a memorable and authentic experience.
After our farming adventure, we gather at the farm's Rice House for a delicious lunch featuring traditional Lao dishes. Surrounded by panoramic views of rice terraces and distant mountains, we savor our meal while soaking in the tranquil beauty of the countryside.
The afternoon is yours to explore more of Luang Prabang independently. You may choose to visit the poignant UXO Centre to gain insights into the impact of the Second Indochina War, explore additional temples scattered across the city, or visit the Ock Pop Tock weaving center nestled in lush tropical gardens.
In the evening, we board a flight to Hanoi, Vietnam, marking the beginning of our next adventure.
Day 7: Leisure Day in Hanoi
Today is yours to explore Vietnam's bustling capital city, Hanoi, at your own pace. For those seeking a unique experience, consider joining our optional Back Streets of Hanoi add-on. This adventure takes you off the beaten path to discover charming districts like Cho Buoi, Hoang Hoa Tham, and Vinh Phuc. Navigate the city's maze of narrow streets aboard taxi-motorbikes, allowing you to soak up the local atmosphere and witness daily life unfold around beautiful Ho Tay Lake.
Alternatively, you may opt to explore Hanoi independently, visiting its historic sites, vibrant markets, and sampling its renowned street food. Whether you choose to delve into Hanoi's cultural treasures or venture into its hidden corners, today promises to be filled with exploration and discovery in Vietnam's dynamic capital.
See our daily tours in Hanoi:
1.MANH’S HOMESTAY IN HANOI: FARM TOUR AND HOME COOKING EXPERIENCE
2. TOP 2 HANOI VILLAGE TOURS: AUTHENTIC, LOCAL EXPERIENCES OFF THE BEATEN PATH
3. TO HE VILLAGE: A UNIQUE CULTURAL TOUR IN HANOI
Day 8: Hanoi – Halong Bay
After a delightful breakfast, our day begins with an exhilarating cyclo (rickshaw) ride through the labyrinthine streets of Hanoi's enchanting French Quarter. Along the way, we take in iconic landmarks such as the Opera House and the serene Ly Thai To Park, soaking in the charm and history of Vietnam's capital city.
Following our cyclo adventure, we embark on a scenic journey to Halong Bay, a true gem in Vietnam's natural landscape. Upon arrival, we board a traditional junk boat to explore the pristine jade waters dotted with magnificent karst islands. Our cruise commences with a delectable lunch served on board, allowing us to savor the panoramic views of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
In the afternoon, our exploration of Halong Bay continues with a visit to Trinh Nu Cave, renowned for its vast expanse of 2,000m² adorned with breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites. Here, we have the option to engage in kayaking amidst the towering limestone formations or enjoy a refreshing swim in the emerald waters.
As evening descends, we gather back on board for a Vietnamese cooking demonstration held on the sundeck, offering insights into the flavors and techniques of local cuisine. We conclude our day with a sumptuous seafood dinner, enjoying the serene ambiance of Halong Bay under the starlit sky—a perfect end to our unforgettable day in this picturesque paradise.
Day 10: Imperial Hue Exploration
Upon arrival in Hue, we begin a guided tour of this historic city, once the capital of the Nguyen Empire in the 19th century. Our first stop is the serene Thien Mu Pagoda, the oldest monastery in Hue, renowned for its distinctive seven-tiered structure that has become an iconic symbol of the city.
Next, we explore the Imperial Purple Palace within the ancient walled citadel. Modeled after Beijing's Forbidden City, it boasts formidable ramparts, moats, and majestic imperial residences that reflect Vietnam's rich imperial history.
Venturing into the countryside, we visit the Royal Tombs of the Nguyen kings, where the opulent mausoleum of Emperor Tu Duc stands as a testament to royal grandeur and architectural finesse.
As dusk settles, you have the option to embark on a scenic longboat cruise along the Perfume River, offering enchanting views of illuminated landscapes. Alternatively, indulge in a bit of local culture and shopping at the vibrant Dong Ba Market.
Day 11: Journey along the Hai Van Pass to Hoi An
Today, we embark on a scenic drive along the Hai Van Pass, known as the “Road of the Ocean Clouds,” offering breathtaking vistas of coastal beaches on one side and verdant hills on the other. Along the way, we pause to stroll along China Beach, immortalized in Francis Ford Coppola’s film ‘Apocalypse Now’. Feel free to take a refreshing swim in the sea before we continue our journey along the coastal road to Hoi An.
Hoi An beckons with its quaint charm—a historical trading port adorned with cobblestone streets, traditional houses, and cozy shop houses. It's a place where one can easily immerse oneself in a bygone era. Along the waterfront, boutique restaurants and trendy cafes dot the landscape, complemented by craft shops and artisans, including some of Asia’s finest bespoke tailors offering their services at reasonable prices.
During a leisurely walking tour of this enchanting city, we will explore cultural gems such as the Chua Ong Pagoda, the Chinese Assembly Hall, the ancient Tam Ky House dating back two centuries, and the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, a testament to Hoi An's rich history.
While in Hoi An, consider enhancing your experience with our optional Hoi An Street tour. Discover local culinary delights at popular spots, cruising the city streets in vintage Vespas as locals do, and savoring delicious Vietnamese cuisine. Reserve early with your consultant, as spaces are limited for this special experience.
Day 12: Discovering Tra Que Village
Today begins with a leisurely bicycle ride through picturesque countryside paths, leading us to Tra Que village. Here, we delve into centuries-old farming traditions and gain insights into traditional medicine practices. This hands-on experience invites us to don iconic conical hats and participate in tending the lush fields, learning from local farmers along the way.
Following this immersive farming experience, we gather for an engaging cooking demonstration. Guided by local experts, we prepare and savor a delicious lunch together, using fresh ingredients harvested from the fields of Tra Que village. It’s a delightful opportunity to connect with the local culture through both taste and tradition.
Day 13: Leisure in Hoi An
Today is yours to unwind and explore at your leisure. You might choose to enjoy a tranquil rowboat journey along the river or simply unwind on the sandy beaches. For those seeking cultural adventures, consider visiting the UNESCO-listed My Son sanctuary, renowned for its ancient Cham temples, or embark on a day trip to the Ba Na Hills.
At Ba Na Hills, experience the thrill of riding the world’s second longest cable car, indulge in the resort's amenities, and stroll along the breathtaking Golden Bridge. This excursion can be arranged locally, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration during your stay in Hoi An.
Day 14: Hoi An- Da Nang -flight to Ho Chi Minh city – Mekong Delta
Today, we start with an early morning flight to Ho Chi Minh City, where we then journey to the vibrant Mekong Delta. Known as Vietnam’s ‘rice bowl', this fertile region is renowned for its lush crops of tropical fruits, flowers, and rice paddies.
Upon arrival, we embark on a traditional sampan boat to navigate the intricate network of canals from Cai Be to Can Tho. Along the way, we stop to explore local cottage industries, gaining insights into traditional craftsmanship and daily life.
Our journey culminates with a delightful lunch served in a charming wooden home on Dong Hoa Hiep Island, offering a taste of authentic Mekong Delta hospitality amidst serene surroundings.
Day 15: Can Tho to Ho Chi Minh City – Exploring Urban Contrasts
Our day begins with a vibrant visit to the bustling Cai Rang floating market, where local life unfolds amidst a kaleidoscope of colors and activities on the river. From there, we journey to Ho Chi Minh City, once known as the Pearl of the Orient. Today, this dynamic metropolis epitomizes Vietnam's rapid development with its modern skyscrapers, upscale restaurants, designer boutiques, and lively entertainment venues nestled alongside ancient pagodas, colonial landmarks, and bustling markets.
During our guided walking tour of Ho Chi Minh City, we marvel at the exterior of the Notre Dame Cathedral and the architectural grandeur of the Old Post Office. We also delve into the poignant history at the War Remnants Museum, offering insights into Vietnam's tumultuous past.
The evening is yours to enjoy at leisure, allowing you to explore more of the city’s vibrant nightlife, indulge in local cuisine, or simply unwind amidst the energy of Ho Chi Minh City.
Day 16: Ho Chi Minh Departure
Today is your day to explore Ho Chi Minh City at your own pace before your departure transfer to the airport. You might choose to wander through the bustling stalls of Ben Thanh Market in search of unique souvenirs, or visit the historic Independence Palace, where you can explore its hidden bunker and military command center below ground.
For those extending their stay, consider joining us on a day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels. Descend into the intricate network of tunnels and bunkers used by Viet Cong guerrilla fighters during the Vietnam War. You can witness ingenious booby traps and trap doors, and even test your marksmanship with an AK-47 at the firing range—a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam’s wartime history.
