LAOS
SERENE LUANG PRABANG
Capture the heart of Laos’ former royal capital, Luang Prabang. The UNESCO World Heritage city is home to several historical, cultural and natural wonders. This fantastic 5-day program explores the city’s important religious monuments, including an archive of Buddhist photography, and offers an insight into the different ethnic communities that live together in harmony. Plus, indulge in breakfast at a waterfall and a day of getting to know the elephants at a nearby sanctuary.
Luang Prabang
5 days, 4 nights
A CEREMONIAL WELCOME
Welcome to Luang Prabang, a laid-back city that lies in a valley framed by the Nam Khan River and the mighty Mekong. The former royal capital city is known for its many Buddhist temples as well as traditional Lao wooden houses mixed with French colonial architecture. Upon landing, you are fast-tracked through immigration procedures and assisted with your VIP visa express on arrival. Then transfer to your hotel for check in. In the early evening your guide accompanies you to a nearby village where you can participate in a traditional Baci ceremony. The ritual is often performed on important occasions such as weddings, births, or for welcoming guests and is a means of expressing good will and good luck to others.
Overnight at Amantaka, Luang Prabang
Meals: None
HISTORY AND HERITAGE WITH LOCAL EXPERTS
Gain an overview of local history at the Royal Palace Museum. Receive a blessing from a monk at Wat Xiengthong, built in classical Luang Prabang style. Then continue to Wat Khili which houses the Buddhist Archive of Photography, an historic collection of 35,000 photographs collected over 120 years. Meet the founder or director for a personal tour of the exhibition. After lunch on the Mekong at Viewpoint Café, meet one of the co-founders of the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Center for an in-depth insight into the city’s diverse ethnic groups. Next, visit Luang Prabang’s oldest temple, Wat Visoun and learn about its colorful history. End the day at Mount Phousi for panoramic views over Luang Prabang and the Mekong River.
Please note: Receive a commemorative book by the founder of the Buddhist Archive of Photography. The archive is closed on weekends. Traditional Arts and Ethnology Center is closed on Mondays.
Overnight at Amantaka, Luang Prabang
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
ALMSGIVING AND BREAKFAST WITH A VIEW
Rise early this morning to witness the daily morning ritual of ‘Tak Bat’ or giving alms to the monks, with a chance to participate if you wish. This is a unique ritual still followed by the locals in Luang Prabang. Afterwards, you can also visit the fresh market to see the locals going about their day. Then drive to the picturesque Kuang Si Waterfall, arriving well before anyone else so you can have the beautiful place to yourself! Prepared just for you, a gourmet picnic breakfast is served overlooking the falls. Satisfied after your meal, stop at the Bear Rescue Center and discover how they are working to protect the rare Asiatic Black Bear. Return to town in the late morning and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight at Amantaka, Luang Prabang
Meals: Breakfast
FRIENDLY GIANTS AND SPECTACULAR SUNSETS
Travel to a beautiful oasis just 40 minutes outside of Luang Prabang to meet some elephants, accompanied by an Elephant Specialist Guide. Learn about MandaLao Elephant Sanctuary from one of the directors who offers some fascinating stories about the elephants and their refuge. Then cross the river by boat to meet two adult elephants and a baby Asian elephant! Feed the friendly giants with help from your guide and bathe them in the river. Next, walk with the majestic creatures on a 1-hour trek through rice paddies and meandering creeks. Leave your pachyderm friends and return to camp for a lunch of local specialties. Later, embark on a magnificent sunset cruise including a glass of champagne or wine plus local snacks.
Overnight at Amantaka, Luang Prabang
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
FAST-TRACK DEPARTURE
After a leisurely breakfast, make the most of your final moments in Laos. For a faster and more convenient departure, take advantage of the airport fast-track service. Your luggage and passport will be collected in advance and taken to the airport for express check in. Depending on the time of your flight, you may have some free time to enjoy at leisure. If time permits, you may continue exploring the city and its rich cultural heritage, or simply enjoy a final moment of relaxation at your hotel. Finally, it is time to check out of your hotel and, approximately 1 hour before departure time, meet your guide and driver who assist you with the final transfer to the airport. Board the flight for a safe onward journey.
Meals: Breakfast