Laid-Back Laos: The Garden of Asia
This 10 day Laos itinerary travels from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Vientiane, Champasak and the 4000 Islands, combining cultural highlights with river landscapes in a well-paced north-to-south journey. It’s ideal for travellers looking to experience Laos in a shorter, structured route without rushing.
Each stop brings a different perspective, from limestone scenery around Vang Vieng to the Mekong’s southern reaches around Don Det and Don Khon, where the pace softens and the journey settles into a quieter rhythm.
The itinerary below is shown as an example route. Every journey we create is planned from scratch and can be shaped entirely around you — unless you like it exactly as it is.
- Day 1 - Overnight Flight
Your Laos adventure begins with an overnight flight to Luang Prabang.
- Day 2 - Luang Prabang
Welcome to Laos!
You'll meet one of our representatives upon arrival who will then transfer you to your beautiful boutique hotel.
- Day 3 - Luang Prabang
Explore one of the most stunning sights in Laos - the the cascading Kuang Si Waterfall with electric turquoise waters.
In the afternoon, discover more sights of the town such as the Royal Palace, historic temples and traditional villages.
- Day 4 - Luang Prabang
Explore the rest of Luang Prabang - you have a free day at leisure today.
- Day 5 - Vang Vieng
Board the sleek Laos-China Railway in Luang Prabang, gliding through mountains, tunnels and jungle valleys. In under an hour, arrive refreshed in Vang Vieng’s dramatic limestone karst landscape.
- Day 6 - Vang Vieng
Spend today kayaking the Nam Song, exploring caves and lagoons, hiking viewpoints, or simply relaxing riverside. Vang Vieng blends adventure with laid-back charm and striking natural scenery.
- Day 7 - Vientiane
Continue south from Vang Vieng by high-speed train, passing rural villages and rice paddies. Arrive swiftly into sleepy Vientiane, where colonial architecture, temples and Mekong sunsets await.
- Day 8 - Vientiane
Embark on a magnificent cycling tour to visit Vientiane’s most historic sites. Cycle to some of the city’s most notable religious sites, including: Wat Sisaket and immerse yourself in Buddhist culture.
- Day 9 - Champasak & 4000 Islands
We will transfer you from your hotel in Vientiane to the airport for your flight to Pakse, then onto your eco-lodge deep in southern Laos' lush green countryside.
- Day 10 - Champasak & 4000 Islands
After a leisurely breakfast, transfer to the 4,000 islands and board a long–tail boat to the island of Don Khone on the Mekong River. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch followed by a walking tour of the island and visit to the Liphi Waterfalls, nicknamed the 'Corridor of the Devil' (don't worry, it's just a nickname!)
- Day 10 - Champasak & 4000 Islands
Enjoy a free day to look around the Champasak town, or, to kick up your feet and enjoy the views with a good book and a cold drink.
- Day 11 - Overnight Flight
Enjoy some more free time before checking out and transferring to Paske airport for your onward flight home.
From £2920pp
Itinerary highlights
- Explore Luang Prabang’s temples, Kuang Si waterfalls and Mekong culture
- Journey through dramatic landscapes to Vang Vieng for kayaking and caves
- Continue to Vientiane discovering temples, cycling tours and Mekong sunsets
- Fly south to Champasak and the 4000 Islands on the Mekong