Laos Untold Story

Vientiane, probably the region's most moderate capital, is a great place to cycle or walk around; wide boulevards and little traffic make it easy to visit That Luang, the Local Market and several colonial French buildings.

After a very scenic morning drive, we arrive in Vang Vieng. Laos' premier outdoor activity centre is located in a valley on the bank of the Nam Xong river, amid misty jungle. In the afternoon try optional active sports in caves and waterfalls with natural springs, or enjoy the view of the karst formations.

Full day drive to Luang Prabang. On the way there are numerous Hmong and Yao hill tribe villages. Laos is less a nation state than a collection of different tribes and languages. We make stops for you to get an idea of their culture. Luang Prabang is a UNESCO World Heritage Site—the well-preserved Old Capital with the Palace Museum and many temples and monasteries.

We get up before 6am to hear the temple bells and watch hundreds of monks collect offerings along the streets. Later we leave by bicycle to visit monasteries, temples and the Royal Palace—once the home of the last Lao King—and meet Buddhist students. Experience the city's relaxed atmosphere and stunning position between the Mekong and Khan rivers.

We board a boat on the Nam Ou into northern Laos. First stop is the Pak Ou caves set in a limestone cliff—two sacred caves studded with thousands of wooden and golden Buddha images. Upstream we pass riverside hamlets and enjoy a picnic lunch on the sandy riverbank. Amid the towering limestone hills we find our hotel, right on the river.

In the early morning, mist covers the higher peaks. After breakfast we drive back to Luang Prabang, stopping in a village on the way to experience more local culture. Lunch is in the city; the afternoon is at leisure—explore at your own pace or sit at a riverside bar with an ice-cold Lao Beer.

After breakfast, transfer to Luang Prabang airport. End of 'Laos Untold Story' programme.