Highlights Of Laos

14 days - from $976

After years of war, peace and tranquillity have come to Laos and this small landlocked nation is slowly opening its doors and offering the intrepid traveller a warm welcome. We travel by a wide variety of local transport including bus, songthaew, tuk-tuk, Mekong riverboat, mini-van, train and pirogue (narrow canoe). Accommodation is in simple hotels and guesthouses.

From Bangkok we travel north to the mighty Mekong River and cross into Laos. Crossing the river is like stepping back in time to old South East Asia. Following the river we visit the beautiful town of Luang Prabang and then continue to Vang Vieng and the sleepy capital of Vientiane. Crossing the International Friendship Bridge we re-enter Thailand and take the overnight sleeper train back to Bangkok.

Highlights

• Feed a monk and guarantee your place in the next life, Luang Prabang.
• Pakbeng
• Slow boat through Laos, Mekong River.
• Swims and rope swings at Kuang Si Falls
• The thousand Buddhas of Pak Ou Caves
• The tiny river town of Huay Xai
• Vang Vieng
• Muay Thai in Bangkok
• Thai massage at Wat Pho

Itinerary:

Day 1-2: Bangkok3: Chiang Mai4: Huay Xai5: Mekong River - Pakbeng6-8: Luang Prabang9-10: Vang Vieng11-12: Vientiane13-14: Bangkok

What's It Like?

Gecko's adventures offer authentic experiences and a genuine alternative to backpacking. Our trips are designed for younger travelers on a budget but do include the entrance fees to the ‘must see’ sights while not wasting your money on unnecessary frills. Itineraries utilize public transport and basic twin share accommodations in small locally owned hotels, the occasional multi-share, or simply floor space in a jungle or village hut. Many trips involve some physical activity, the occasional long traveling day and you will need to carry your own bags. On camping trips, meals are freshly prepared by our camp cook, but expect to put up and take down your tent, and assist with camp chores. On all trips we only use local tour leaders who are passionate about their homeland. This is travel, grassroots style - basic but rewarding.

Included: An experienced local leader, and there will be the services of local guides at some sites. All transportation, accommodation, sightseeing and meals as indicated.
Not Included: International flights, arrival and departure transfers, departure and airport taxes, visas, all other meals, all optional tours or activities during free time, transfers outside of the tour program, travel insurance, tips and items of a personal nature.
Meals: 2 breakfasts
EquipmentIncluded: 30 Jul 10
Valid From: 01 Jan 08
Valid Until: 31 Dec 69
Starts/Ends: Bangkok to Bangkok
Trip Reference: GTLS