Elephant Kingdoms (Family)
14 days - from $2165
Meet the hill tribes and elephants of northern Thailand and explore off-the-beaten-track Laos!
Our journey begins in the vibrant city of Bangkok, visiting the majestic Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha). We board a train northwards and on to Chiang Mai, where we visit the colourful villages that dot the region. We even have the chance to ride an elephant! We cross the mighty Mekong River into Laos and the UNESCO World Heritage listed historic town of Luang Prabang, where royal palaces and temples tell the story of the rich Lao culture and heritage. We drive to Vang Vieng, renowned for its amazing caves. Our final days are spent in the capital, Vientiane - a sleepy yet charming town on the Mekong River with its old buildings still exuding the mood of the French colonial days.
Highlights
- Croissants and baguettes in Vientiane, Laos
- Feed a monk and guarantee your place in the next life, Luang Prabang.
- Muay Thai in Bangkok
- Songkran Festival, Chiang Mai
- Thai massage at Wat Pho
Itinerary:
Day 1: (Sun) Arrive in Bangkok and transfer to hotel.2: City tour of Bangkok. Overnight train to Chiang Mai.3: Arrive Chiang Mai. Afternoon sightseeing tour.4: Hill tribe day tour riding elephants and visiting Palong, Karen, Lisu and Akha people.5: Drive to Chiang Khong.6: Cross the border into Laos and continue on to Pak Beng.7: Board Mekong slow-boat for the journey to Luang Prabang.8: Sightseeing tour of Luang Prabang.9: Visit the National Museum at the former Royal Palace.10: Travel via mountain passes to Vang Vieng.11: Free day for further exploration in Vang Vieng.12: Drive to Vientiane. Afternoon sightseeing tour of city.13: Fly to Bangkok.14: Tour ends in Bangkok this morning (Sat).
Included: Local tour leader, arrival transfer, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees.
Not Included: Visa costs, international airfares, departure taxes, insurance (obligatory on all trips), departure transfer, other meals, drinks, snacks, any optional additional tours or activities during free time, spending of a personal nature such as gratuities, laundry, drinks, souvenirs.
Meals: 13 breakfasts, 1 lunch
Valid From: 12 Jan 08
Valid Until: 31 Dec 69
Starts/Ends: Bangkok to Bangkok
Trip Reference: PTEK