Laos - Voyage through the land of a million elephants

Day 1. Luang Prabang (L & D)
Upon arrival in the morning, you will be welcomed and transferred to La Residence Phou Vao. La Residence Phou Vao, is part of the Pansea - Orient Express Hotels group, and sits in three hectares of lush gardens, rich with bougainvillea, palms and frangipani. In the centre of the resort is a breathtaking infinity-edge swimming pool.
An orientation tour around this picturesque town. The capital of the Lane Xang kingdom since 1354 A.D, the town is rich in cultural heritage including temples and monasteries surrounded by natural beauty.
The tour will give you the opportunity to chat with monks at a local temple. At sunset, ascend the 328 steps to the top of Phou Si Mountain that offers a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding rivers and cityscape. In the evening, wander through the bustling Night Market where ethnic hill tribe minorities peddle their wares of traditional costumes and handicrafts.

Day 2. Luang Prabang (B, L & D)
Rise early at dawn to experience life as a local by watching monks in saffron robes going on their alms collection before visiting the local fresh market. Soak in the history of Luang Prabang at the Royal Palace, now the National Museum, Wat Visoun with its iconic Watermelon Stupa and Wat Aham. Watch the adept skills of weavers as they demonstrate the significance of silk weaving in Lao culture at the Ock Pop Tok gallery where you will be inspired to design your own scarf. In the late afternoon, you can try your hand at whipping up Laotian specialties amidst the splendid ambience of La Residence Phou Vao.

Day 3. Luang Prabang (B, L & D)
Today, we will take you to the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers to visit Wat Xieng Thong. Gently cruise down Mekong River to admire the startling collection of gold-lacquered Buddha statues of all shapes and sizes nestled deep in the massive limestone caverns of the Pak Ou Caves. You will also see the production of traditional Lao textiles and Sa paper by local artisans. In the evening, enjoy a refreshing dinner at local eateries recommended by your guide.

Day 4. Luang Prabang - Vientiane (B, L & D)
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for the flight to Vientiane and drive along the Mekong River and the city's main boulevards to Patuxai, Vientiane's version of "Arc de Triomphe" Lend a helping hand to street children and their families by lunching at the vocational Mak Phet restaurant that serves authentic and delicious Lao cuisine prepared by the instructors and students. Witness the transformation of natural and recycled materials into quality handicrafts by disadvantaged artists at Les Artisans Lao. Enjoy an enchanting stroll by the lazy Mekong River before dining at Le Nadao restaurant renowned for its French and Lao fusion dishes. Overnight at the Settha Palace in Vientiane, a chic hotel with beautiful French colonial architecture.

Day 5. Vientiane (B, L & D)
In the morning, you will take a tour of That Luang, the cultural symbol of Laos with its magnificent golden stupa before ascending the steps up to Patuxai, Vientiane's own Arc de Triomphe for a spectacular view over a city that has almost no high-rise buildings. The cultural tour will lead you on to Vat Sisaket with hundreds of Buddha statues nestled in the temple walls and Vat Ho Phra Keo, the temple that once housed the sacred "Emerald Buddha", now in the Wat Phra Kaew temple in Bangkok. Indulge in gastronomic delights at "Le Central" restaurant renowned for its French-styled bistro before pampering yourself with some shopping and spa treatment. Observe the unique Baci Ceremony, an eclectic mix of Animist and Buddhist beliefs followed by authentic Lao cuisine in the home of your evening hosts.

Day 6. Vientiane - Pakse - Wat Phou - Champasak (B, L & D)
After breakfast, you will transfer to the airport for your flight to Pakse, in the south of the country. Arrival and depart from for Champasak, on a combined journey of two hours by a local long tail boat (with other cruise passengers) to meet the boat and check-in. After lunch on board, transfer to Wat Phou Temple for a visit to the site before returning to the boat as the sun sets. Dinner and overnight on board.

Day 7. Huei Thamo - Ban Dua Tae (B, L & D)
After breakfast sail to the island of Don Daeng and the village of Huei Thamo (Oum Moung). A shore excursion allows exploration of the nearby ruins hidden in the forest. Return to the boat and sail south into the area known as the '4,000 Islands'. Lunch on board. In the afternoon visit the traditional Laotian Village of Ban Dua Tae. Dinner and overnight on board.

Day 8. Khong Island - Phapheng - Pakse (B & L)
After breakfast, sail to Ban Veuthong on Khong Island. On arrival transfer by long-tail boat to visit Khon Island. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before departing for Phapheng Falls and returning to Pakse by road (with other cruise passengers). Transfer to the airport for your return flight home.

End of services

Day 1. Luang Prabang (L & D)
Day 2. Luang Prabang (B, L & D)
Day 3. Luang Prabang (B, L & D)
Day 4. Luang Prabang - Vientiane (B, L & D)
Day 5. Vientiane (B, L & D)
Day 6. Vientiane - Pakse - Wat Phou - Champasak (B, L & D)
Day 7. Huei Thamo - Ban Dua Tae (B, L & D)
Day 8. Khong Island - Phapheng - Pakse (B & L)

The price includes international return flights from London in economy class, accommodation in 5 star deluxe hotels and 2 nights aboard a cruise boat, all tours in private (except the cruise)with an English speaking guide, all meals as per itinerary, domestic flights and all taxes.

Meals not specified and travel insurance are not included. Business class and First class air ticket quotes provided upon request.