Overview
This multi-country journey begins in northern Thailand before crossing into Laos for a complete discovery from the Mekong highlands to the southern islands. Start in Chiang Khong and cruise the legendary Mekong River for two days through remote ethnic villages, dramatic limestone landscapes, and the sacred Pak Ou Caves, arriving in the UNESCO city of Luang Prabang. Continue through golden temples, royal heritage, bamboo workshops, and the spectacular Kuang Si Falls before travelling south to the limestone valleys of Vang Vieng for cave exploration, trekking, and kayaking on the Nam Song River. Conclude in the capital Vientiane with its serene temples and colonial charm before flying south to Pakse, the Bolaven Plateau, Wat Phou (UNESCO), and the magical 4000 Islands, home to waterfalls, river life, and timeless Mekong scenery.
A perfect blend of culture, nature, soft adventure, and slow river travel—ideal for travellers seeking the complete Laos experience.
Highlights
- Two-day Mekong cruise from Houeisay to Luang Prabang with ethnic village visits
- Discovery of Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng & Vientiane: temples, royal history, river views
- Soft adventure: trekking, caving, kayaking, and village immersion across central Laos
- Southern Laos icons: Wat Phou (UNESCO), Bolaven Plateau waterfalls, tea & coffee plantations
- Exploration of the tranquil 4000 Islands, including Liphi Falls & Khone Phapheng
Itinerary List
Day 01: Chiang Mai – Chiang Rai – Chiang Khong
Day 02: Chiang Khong – Houeisay – Pakbeng (Mekong Cruise)
Day 03: Pakbeng – Luang Prabang (Mekong Cruise & Pak Ou Caves)
Day 04: Luang Prabang – City Tour
Day 05: Luang Prabang – Bamboo Experience & Kuang Si Waterfalls
Day 06: Luang Prabang – Free Day
Day 07: Luang Prabang – Vang Vieng
Day 08: Vang Vieng – Trekking, Caves & Kayaking
Day 09: Vang Vieng – Nam Ngum Lake – Vientiane
Day 10: Vientiane – City Tour
Day 11: Vientiane – Pakse – Bolaven Plateau
Day 12: Pakse – Wat Phou – Ban Khiet Ngong – Don Khong (4000 Islands)
Day 13: Don Khong – 4000 Islands Excursion
Day 14: Don Khong – Pakse – Departure
How Our Trips Work
- Mekong Mosaic specializes exclusively in private, tailor-made journeys for small groups of two or more. Each package includes all on-site services from the moment you arrive until your departure.
- The itinerary presented is a suggested outline for inspiration. Depending on your preferences and budget, it can be fully customized and adjusted in terms of duration, content, and travel period.
- We offer a wide range of trip styles and experiences. If this program doesn’t fully match your expectations, we invite you to explore additional options available through our advisors.
- For any quote requests, simply contact our travel experts. They will work closely with you to ensure your tailor-made itinerary reflects your vision of the perfect journey. Expect a personalized response within 24 hours—guaranteed.
Arrival at Chiang Mai Airport (Thailand). You are met by your guide who will transfer you to the hotel in the border town of Chiang Khong (approximately 4.5 hours drive).
Overnight: Chiang Khong
Early departure from the hotel with your local guide and transfer to the Chiang Khong border crossing.
Upon arrival, customs and immigration formalities on the Thailand side, then a canoe crossing of the Mekong River to reach Ban Houeisay in Laos around 8:00 AM. Your Lao guide will be waiting for you at the border crossing.
Boarding a traditional boat for an approximately 6-hour cruise to Pakbeng (private boat).
The main thoroughfare between the north of the country and Luang Prabang, it's a busy road lined with villages of wooden and bamboo houses, some built on stilts, others not, depending on the ethnic group. We'll stop in two villages along the way.
Lunch will be served on board.
Stops along the riverbanks in small villages allow you to meet local ethnic minorities (Hmong, Khamu, Lu, etc.). The cruise ends with your disembarkation at the end of the day in Pakbeng, a large town located at the confluence of the Mekong and the smaller Beng River, in a breathtakingly beautiful setting.
Overnight: Pakbeng (Hotel)
In the morning, your Mekong River cruise continues towards Luang Prabang, located 165 kilometres downstream, a journey of approximately 7.5 hours.
The cruise continues towards Luang Prabang with a stop at the famous Pak Ou caves, named after the Mekong tributary, known as "the mouth of Ou." You will visit the Tham Ting and Tham Phun caves. These caves were carved by natural erosion into limestone cliffs and are now dedicated to Buddhist worship. Many families make pilgrimages here, which is why you can see approximately 4,000 Buddha statues placed there by the Laotian people as a sign of devotion.
Arrival in Luang Prabang and check-in at the hotel.
In the evening, enjoy a free stroll through the night market, where you can browse a beautiful selection of handmade textiles.
Overnight: Luang Prabang
Breakfast at the hotel before visiting the city of Luang Prabang.
Discover the Wat Xieng Thong temple, the monastery of the Golden City, whose ornaments, mosaics, and stupas are among the most exquisite.
The tour of Luang Prabang continues with a visit to the city's historic temple: Vat Visoun, built in the early 16th century. It was partially destroyed by fire in 1887, and the architects responsible for its renovation chose to give it an architectural style inspired by the Khmer temple Vat Phou.
A short walk away, discover Wat Aham, then the city's first monastery, Wat Saen.
Finally, visit Wat May, built in the typical Luang Prabang style.
In the afternoon, you will learn about the history of the region and the royal family at the Royal Palace, now a museum.
In the evening, stroll through the stalls of the vibrant night market. Every night, ethnic minorities gather along the main street to sell their local produce.
Overnight: Luang Prabang
Optional visit: Around 5 a.m., monks parade through the streets of Luang Prabang seeking alms. If you wish, you can get up early and witness this beautiful spiritual spectacle in Luang Prabang. Afterward, you can visit the local market.
Breakfast at the hotel
This morning, we invite you to participate in the Bamboo Experience. You will learn about bamboo processing and its significant role in Lao culture. Your guide will demonstrate the techniques and uses of various bamboo products, such as fishing tools and musical instruments.
Participate in a bamboo weaving workshop led by an expert instructor. Then, enjoy a bamboo cooking demonstration, including bamboo shoot soup and bamboo shoots wrapped in banana leaves with sticky rice.
Savour your creations in a traditional Laotian pavilion-style house overlooking stunning landscapes and rice paddies.
In the afternoon, transfer to Kuang Si. Upon arrival, take a short walk to visit the bear sanctuary. Kuang Si will amaze you with its beauty. It's a collection of natural pools with turquoise water where you can swim.
Return to Luang Prabang by vehicle in the late afternoon.
Overnight: Luang Prabang
Free day for personal exploration of the city.
Overnight: Luang Prabang
In the morning, climb Mount Phousi for a pleasant exploration of the sacred golden stupa as well as a breathtaking view of the city and the Mekong River.
Departure towards Vang Vieng, perhaps the best-preserved traditional town in Southeast Asia. The road is well-paved. The landscapes are a mix of steep terraced fields and mountain villages, allowing for several stops for photos and to discover local life in the villages.
Arrival in Vang Vieng in the afternoon and check-in at the hotel.
Overnight: Vang Vieng
(25-minute transfer, 1.5 hours for trekking, 2 hours for kayaking, 2 hours to visit the caves)
Breakfast and departure (approximately 14 km) north of Vang Vieng.
You visit the first cave, Tham Xang (the Elephant Cave) on the opposite banks of the Chanson Nam, a Buddhist temple.
Then visit the Tham Hoi and Tham Nam caves. After a picnic lunch, trek to the Hmong village of Pathao through rice paddies and vegetable gardens.
Next, a kayak trip down the Nam Song River takes us through idyllic scenes of rural life: a unique view with limestone mountains in the background.
Return to your hotel in Vang Vieng.
Overnight: Vang Vieng
After breakfast, drive to Vientiane. Stop at the Talat Dong Ma Khai insect market, a very typical and local market, and visit a salt production facility in the village of Ban Kheune.
A stop en route for a boat trip on Nam Ngum Lake holds a few surprises. Located amidst the mountains, in a calm and relaxing setting, visitors will have ample opportunity to appreciate this site where nature has gradually reclaimed its territory, offering a complete change of scenery! We make a stop along the way at Vang Xang, a famous archaeological site dating back to the 11th century.
Arrival and check-in in Vientiane in the afternoon.
Overnight: Vientiane
After breakfast, your day begins with the discovery of Vat Sisaket, probably the oldest temple in the capital.
Wat Phra Keo, the temple that was intended to house the most famous of Buddhas, the Emerald Buddha. Restored at the beginning of the 20th century, it is now a museum with a superb collection of religious art.
A visit to Patuxai, Vientiane's triumphal arch. Then, the unmissable Pha That Luang, the emblem of Laos, featured on the national coat of arms and banknotes. The temple's 40-meter-high stupa, covered in gold, can be seen for miles around.
A detour to visit Vat Si Muang, the Laotian people's favourite active temple. They come to leave offerings in the "sim" after one of their wishes has been granted.
Finally, stroll through Talat Sao, the largest market in the country, which is full of traditional objects, tasty food, and souvenirs to bring back to your loved ones.
Overnight: Vientiane
Breakfast at the hotel, then check out and transfer to Luang Prabang Airport for your flight to Pakse.
Upon arrival in Pakse, you will depart for Tad Fane Waterfall, located 38km from Pakse, at the gateway to the Bolaven Plateau and within the Dong Hua Sao Protected Area. Next, you will visit Tad Ngern Waterfall, nestled in the heart of a lush forest. These waterfalls are equally spectacular, with two torrents cascading over 40 meters. You can swim at the base of the falls, but please be mindful of the strong current.
Along the way, you will visit a tea or coffee plantation on the Bolaven Plateau. The Bolaven Plateau, or simply Bolaven, is a gently rolling mountainous region east of Pakse. The plateau is also home to ethnic minorities such as the Laven, the Mom-Khmer Alak, and the Katu.
The Katu are renowned for the intricate carving of their coffins, which they keep beneath their houses. It is a truly remarkable craft to behold. Among the women, traditional facial tattoos can still be seen, although this practice is fading over time.
Return to Pakse.
Overnight: Pakse
In the morning, we will head to Champasack to visit the fascinating pre-Angkorian ruin of Vat Phu, the most dramatic of the temples and one of the Lao World Heritage sites recognized by UNESCO in 2001. This magnificent archaeological site of Khmer civilization dates back 5 centuries, before the famous Angkor Wat in Cambodia.
Stop at Ban Khiet Ngong village for an elephant ride to the summit of Phou Asa, topped by the ancient citadel. From there, enjoy panoramic views over the Dong Houasao protected area and the Mekong Valley.
We will continue our journey by car to Don Khong Island, the largest island in the southern Mekong region known as the 4000 Islands, one of the most scenic areas of Laos.
Overnight: Don Khong Island
Transfer to the fishing village of Nakasang, from where you begin your excursion by local boat through the 4000 Islands to Don Khone and Don Det. The two islands are connected by a bridge, making it very easy to walk between them.
Next, we discovered another marvel of the 4000 Islands region: the Liphi Falls. These falls form churning rapids that the Laotians refuse to approach too closely because spirits are said to have taken refuge there.
Return to Nakasang village by boat, where a vehicle will be waiting to transfer you to visit the other Mekong waterfall – Khone Phapheng, the largest waterfall in Southeast Asia (the Niagara of the East). Return to Khong Island for the night.
Overnight: Don Khong Island
Free time for your relaxation or personal exploration.
Transfer to Pakse airport to catch the return flight.
Price Includes
- Accommodation in the planned category (or similar) subject to availability.
- Escort by experienced English-speaking local guides at each stage.
- Meals mentioned in the program.
- Entrance fees for all tourist sites listed in the program.
- All activities and cruises clearly specified in the itinerary.
- Domestic economy, including applicable airport taxes.
Price Excludes
- International flights and associated airport taxes.
- Visa fees.
- Travelers’ personal insurance.
- Drinks and personal expenses.
- Tips/gratuities.
- Anything not listed under “Price Includes.”
- Any service not clearly mentioned in the program.
At Mekong Mosaic, we specialize in tailor-made journeys across Vietnam and Indochina. Every trip is designed exclusively for you, ensuring complete privacy and flexibility.
- Private Experience – Travel only with your family or friends, without being grouped with other tourists.
- From Arrival to Departure – A dedicated guide and driver accompany you throughout your journey.
- Your Trip, Your Way – Visits and activities can be adapted to your pace, preferences, and interests.
- Personalized Services – From dietary preferences to special celebrations (honeymoon, birthday, anniversary), we create unique touches tailored to you.
Our pricing is personalized and depends on:
- Number of Travellers – The more people in your group, the lower the cost per person.
- Hotel Category – A 5-star hotel can cost significantly more than a 2- or 3-star option.
- Activities Chosen – Two similar itineraries may differ in price depending on included excursions.
- Travel Period – High season (October–April) is generally more expensive than low season (May–September).
- Booking Date – Early booking often secures better rates and availability.
Accommodation is a key factor in your trip’s cost, often accounting for up to three-quarters of the total.
- We offer a wide selection of 2- to 5-star hotels, always negotiated at preferential rates.
- For a truly authentic experience, you may opt for a “Night at a local’s home”—simple yet welcoming, and highly recommended for at least one night.
Our guides are the cornerstone of your experience. Each one is:
- Professional, knowledgeable, and fluent in French or English.
- Licensed by the National Tourism Administration.
- Passionate locals eager to share the cultural richness of their region.
1. Private Vehicles
All transfers are in modern, air-conditioned vehicles with experienced drivers.
- Cars for 2 passengers
- Minibuses for 4–14 passengers
- Buses for 15–20 passengers
Bottled water and refreshing towels are provided. Fuel, tolls, and driver expenses are included.
2. Domestic Flights
Flights within Vietnam are operated by Vietnam Airlines, using a modern Airbus and Boeing fleet.
3. Rail Journeys
Some itineraries include train travel (e.g., Hanoi–Hue, Hanoi–Lao Cai) in air-conditioned cabins with comfortable berths. A slower pace than flying, but a memorable cultural experience.
International airfare to/from Vietnam is not included. We recommend booking from your departure country, as prices are usually more competitive. Many airlines operate to Vietnam, with direct flights from Paris, Toronto, and other major hubs.
Step 1. Customize Your Journey
- Choose an existing itinerary or request a tailor-made program.
- A travel expert will contact you within 24 hours with a personalized proposal.
Step 2. Confirm Your Booking
- Validate the final quote with your advisor.
- Secure your trip with a deposit of 25–30% (depending on services).
- Receive confirmation within 7 days once reservations are completed.
Note: During peak season (November–March), early booking is strongly recommended to guarantee hotel availability.
At Mekong Mosaic, we believe peace of mind is part of a truly seamless travel experience. Our flexible modification and cancellation policy ensures that, should your plans change, we’ll handle every detail with fairness and transparency.
Modification Requests
- You may request to modify your booking up to 14 days before departure, subject to availability.
- Any additional costs resulting from changes (e.g., hotel or airline adjustments) are payable by the traveller.
Cancellation Policy
Should you need to cancel your trip, the following fees apply based on the number of days before departure:
- 30+ days: 10% of total trip price
- 15–30 days: 20%
- 8–14 days: 30%
- 4–7 days: 40%
- Less than 72 hours: 50%
Refunds, if applicable, will be processed within 14 business days, minus bank or transaction fees.
Itinerary List
How Our Trips Work
- Mekong Mosaic specializes exclusively in private, tailor-made journeys for small groups of two or more. Each package includes all on-site services from the moment you arrive until your departure.
- The itinerary presented is a suggested outline for inspiration. Depending on your preferences and budget, it can be fully customized and adjusted in terms of duration, content, and travel period.
- We offer a wide range of trip styles and experiences. If this program doesn’t fully match your expectations, we invite you to explore additional options available through our advisors.
- For any quote requests, simply contact our travel experts. They will work closely with you to ensure your tailor-made itinerary reflects your vision of the perfect journey. Expect a personalized response within 24 hours—guaranteed.
