Compare Laos & Cambodia Adventure Week by MT Sobek (Mountain Travel Sobek) vs Golden Triangle of Indochina In 10 Days by Realistic Asia

Day 1: Luang Prabang

Meals: Lunch

Accommodation: Burasari Heritage

Upon arrival at Luang Prabang Airport, you will be met by your guide and transferred to your hotel for check in. The crown jewel of Laos and former Lanexang, Luang Prabang, is perhaps the best preserved traditional city in Southeast Asia. Magical and charming, it has preserved its long-standing reputation as a stronghold of Lao culture with its splendid natural scenery and sense of timelessness. In 1995 UNESCO voted Luang Prabang as a World Heritage City.

After lunch at a local restaurant, we’ll visit Vat Visoun, the site of an impressive stupa and That Makmo, stylistically more Sri Lankan than Laotian. Continue to the nearby Vat Aham, one of the city’s major tutelary shrines dedicated to Deveta Luang (spirit) Pu Gneu Ya Gneu (ancestors). Continue to Vat Mai, built in 1796, famous for the five – tiered roof of its wooden sim built in the standard of Luang Prabang style. Climb Vat Phousi hill for on outstanding overview of the city. Sunset at Vat Prabaht Tai located along the Mekong River. Dinner is on your own.

Day 2: Luang Prabang – Pak Ou

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Accommodation: Burasari Heritage

After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll visit Vat Xiang Thong, considered the most beautiful temple in Luang Prabang. The main sanctuary represents the classic Luang Prabang temple architecture with roofs that sweep low to the ground. In the compound stand several small chapels housing bronze Buddha images, which were displayed in Paris in 1911. Near the East gate stands the royal Funeral chapel. Inside are an impressive 12-meter high funeral chariot and various funeral urns of each Royal Family’s members. The gilt panel on the exterior of the chapel depicts a semi-erotic episode from the Ramayana.

We’ll then board a traditional boat for a trip up the Mekong River to visit the famous caves of Pak Ou which houses thousands of statues representing Lord Buddha. We’ll have lunch at Minivan Restaurant, overlooking the confluence between the Mekong and Nam Ou rivers. Return to Luang Prabang, and continue by car to visit the villages of Ban Xang Hai was once a “jar-maker village.” Nowadays the community fills the jars (which come from elsewhere) with láo-láo, the local rice whisky.  Then visit Ban Xang Khong, where you’ll see the locals make paper from mulberry. Dinner is on your own.

Day 3: Luang Prabang - Lao Spirit Resort

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Accommodation: Lao Spirit Resort

After breakfast we’ll drive to an elephant camp where you will be introduced to Asian elephants, and go out for a scenic ride! Enjoy the new perspective from the height of an elephant back, and the wonderful natural surroundings, on this approximately 1-hour elephant ride. A stunning landscape, quiet, and the lush nature gives you a relaxed ride on the back of the protected elephant. Make your way through forests and along the Nam Khan River up to the amazing waterfalls of Tad Sae. Here you can hang out for lunch and some swimming and bathing in the refreshing cool cascades. After you lunch, we’ll explore the tropical surrounding on one of the nature trails.

Our half-day hike will take you to a Khmu Village where you’ll get insight into everyday life of this hill tribe. Most are farmers and fishermen and live from their slash and burn tradition. The countryside offers you great views and a relaxing atmosphere. They even speak a different language here and your guide will help to ask questions. A short hike along a steep mountain range will bring you to the newly opened Jungle Camp, where another swim in a crystal clear river is a wonderful option. Have a drink and finish your day of activity after another 45 minutes of walking to your lodge.

Day 4: Lao Spirit Resort - Luang Prabang

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Accommodation: Burasari Heritage

We’ll take a late morning return drive to Luang Prabang, to visit the National Museum (formerly the King’s Palace), displaying a collection of personal artifacts of the Royal Family: photos, musical equipment and gifts received from foreign countries. The rest of the afternoon is free to relax or explore the town on your own.

Day 5: Luang Prabang - Siem Reap

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: Angkor Village Resort

After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the airport for your flight to Siem Reap, the former capital of the Khmer empire, which ruled vast areas of Indochina between the ninth and thirteenth centuries. After exiting through immigration and customs at Siem Reap Airport, you will transfer to your hotel, where you can leave your luggage before embarking on the morning tour.

This afternoon, set out on your first cycling adventure to explore the rural charms of the Cambodian countryside. A rich tapestry woven with lush scenery, colorful bustling villages, stilted houses, hidden temples and dusty back roads hedged with sugar palms await you. You will pass through the village of Chreav en route to the Tonlé Sap Lake. Stop for a well-earned rest in the shade of the ancient Wat Athvea and take some time to explore this temple. Weave your way through the dusty back roads to a small stilted hammock bar overlooking the rice fields, where you will stop for light refreshment before proceeding to the seldom visited Phnom Krom hill.

The temple at Phnom Krom sits on top of one of the best vantage points overlooking the vast expanse of the Tonlé Sap Lake. Take in this view as the sun sets. Transfer back to your hotel. This evening, you will have your first encounter with Khmer cuisine at Viroth’s served in a traditional Khmer house with a charming warm interior.

Day 6: Siem Reap

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Angkor Village Resort

We begin our morning with a visit to the most famous of all the temples on the plain of Angkor: Angkor Wat. The temple complex covers 81 hectares and is comparable in size to the Imperial Palace in Beijing. The 12th-century masterpiece is considered by art historians to be the prime example of classical Khmer art and architecture.

Afternoon visit to the ancient city of Angkor Thom, once home to nearly one million residents. Passing through the South Gate of the city, we'll cross the moat-bridge with its larger-than-life depictions of the Hindu story of the Churning Sea of Milk, the classic struggle of good and evil typified by a tug of war between giants and demons. We pass under the serene face of Avolokiteshvara, the Boddhisattva of compassion, into the city. We’ll visit Bayon, situated in the center of the ancient town. This Buddhist shrine boasts 54 towers and huge portraits of the Buddha facing each of the cardinal directions. We’ll also visit Baphuon, The Royal Enclosure, Terrace of the Leper King, and the Terrace of Elephants until sunset.

Day 7: Siem Reap – Departure

Meals: Breakfast

This morning, travel to the “gem” of the Angkor area, the pretty temple of Banteay Srei, which is best viewed in the warm morning light. The so-called “Citadel of the Women” was built between the 11th and 13th centuries and remains the best preserved temple in Cambodia. It displays some of the finest examples of classical Khmer art as this small temple is noted for its remarkable fine bas-reliefs, depicting Hindu god Shiva. Banteay Srei is unique in that it is constructed of pink sandstone, which is seen nowhere else in Angkor.

Before your departure visit a Buddhist monk for a special travel blessing for your health and a safe journey home.

Transfer to Siem Reap Airport for your departure flight.

Day 1 Welcome to Cambodia - Siem Reap Arrival

Your Indochina adventure begins with your arrival in Siem Reap. Your private driver will meet you at the airport, holding a signboard with your name. He will escort you to your accommodation right in the heart of the city. You can easily explore the city at your own pace or relax at the hotel after the flight.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

Day 2 Explore The Magnificent Ancient Capital Of Khmer (B)

Have breakfast at the hotel. Start your Siem Reap exploration by visiting Angkor Wat, the “7th Wonder of the World”, and the world's largest temple with an excellent masterpiece of carvings, sculptures, and perfect structure. This architectural masterpiece was constructed in the 12th century and covers an area of about 210 hectares. We will stroll around this massive edifice, seeing the many galleries with columns, libraries, pavilions, courtyards, and ponds full of water reflecting the towering temple.

In the afternoon, we will visit the wondrous ancient ruins with the South Gate of Angkor Thom, which is famous for its series of colossal human faces carved in stone. Continue your sightseeing to the impressive Bayon Temple, the Royal Enclosure, Phimeanakas, the Elephant Terrace, and the Terrace of the Leper King. Then visit the famous jungle-covered temple of Ta Prohm. Here the enormous fig trees and gigantic creepers embrace themselves in the stone foundations of the structure giving the impression of man’s creation being reclaimed by the powerful forces of nature.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

Day 3 Travel From Siem Reap To Phnom Penh By Shuttle Bus - Phnom Penh Sightseeing (B)

Have breakfast at the hotel and check out the hotel. You will be transferred to Phnom Penh by bus. Upon arrival at Phnom Penh, have some rest for lunch. In the afternoon, you will visit the Royal Palace, where His Majesty, the King of Cambodia, and the royal family lived. Continue to Silver Pagoda, which serves less as a functioning temple than a repository for cultural treasures such as 90 kg golden Buddha encrusted with 2086 diamonds. Finally, visit Wat Phnom Temple, one of the most important pagodas in Phnom Penh, which was built in 1373 on an artificial hill by the wealthy widow Daun Chi Penh.

Overnight in Phnom Penh.

Day 4 Flight From Phnom Penh To Hanoi (B)

Relish the remaining moment in Phnom Penh before your private driver escorts you to the airport to take the flight to Hanoi, Vietnam. When you arrive at Noi Bai International Airport, your driver will pick you up and transfer you to your accommodation in Hanoi city center. The rest of the time is free at leisure.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Please note: on particular days the flight might be with a stopover in Bangkok.

Day 5 Cruising At The Natural Wonder Of The World Halong Bay (B/L/D) - Shared Cruise

Check out of the hotel in the morning, and get picked up by the Cruise team. Take the most scenic route to reach Halong Bay, taking you across the Red River Delta with emerald green rice paddies stretching for as far as the eyes can see.

On arrival at the pier, you will board the cruise and enjoy the fantastic views of limestone rocks and the karst grottoes. Have an utterly delicious seafood lunch and enjoy the time at the sundeck exploring the Bay.

The cruise will stop in a secret place where you will spend time kayaking or swimming, so you can explore the karst grottoes closer. Towards the evening, you will return to the boat for an early dinner, followed by some time at leisure. You can optionally attend the activities taking part on the boat or just relax.

Overnight on cruise.

Day 6 Halong Bay - Back To Hanoi (B/L)

Rise early today to view the sunrise at the wonder of nature with breakfast served in the dining room. A Tai Chi class on the sun deck will awake your mind and muscles.

Then head off to visit the limestone cave full of stalagmites and stalactites. After your exploration return to the boat to check out and enjoy the brunch while the cruise is sailing back to the harbor. Later you will be transferred to your accommodation in Hanoi.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 7 Flight From Hanoi to Vientiane - Vientiane Sightseeing (B)

Relish the remaining moment in Hanoi before your private driver escorts you to the airport to take the flight to Vientiane, Laos. On arrival at the Vientiane, you will be met and transferred to your centrally located hotel. Vientiane is a charming and fascinating capital, with an interesting mix of Laotian, Thai, Chinese, Vietnamese, French, and American influences. After a short rest, you will visit the major sights of the capital, including Wat Sisaket, the oldest temple with thousands of miniature Buddha statues, and the former royal temple of Wat Prakeo, which previously housed the famous Emerald Buddha Image. En route to Lao’s national precious heritage, the famous and sacred structure of That Luang Stupa, you will have the opportunity to take some pictures of the imposing Patuxay Monument, which is well known as Vientiane’s own Arc de Triumph.

Overnight in Vientiane.

Please note: on particular days the flight might be with a stopover in Bangkok.

Day 8 Flight From Vientiane To Luang Prabang - Luang Prabang Sightseeing (B)

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for a flight to the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage City Luang Prabang, which is perhaps the best-preserved traditional city in Southeast Asia. The tranquility and charm of this town with its splendid natural scenery and cultural sights make it one of the most delightful places to visit in Asia. On arrival, we transfer you to the hotel.

After a short rest, we climb up to the top of Mount Phousi for an enjoyable exploration of the sacred, gilded stupa as well as viewing a beautiful and panoramic sunset over the ancient and once royal city and the Mekong River. We then stroll around the Night Market, where you can find a lovely selection of textiles made by the locals and the hill tribe people surrounding Luang Prabang.

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Day 9 Luang Prabang - Pak Ou Cave - Kuangsi Waterfall (B)

After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a short tour seeing the city’s oldest temple of Wat Sene and the magnificent Wat Xiengthong with its roofs sweeping low to the ground, which represents classical Laotian architecture. Then board a cruise upstream on the Mekong River, to enjoy the panoramic view of the tranquil countryside and visit the mysterious Pak Ou Caves. It is two linked caves crammed with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes left by pilgrims. Along the way, we stop at the small village of Ban Xanghai, where the local rice wine is distilled. Then return to Luang Prabang for a short break.

In the afternoon, continue to Ban Xang Khong, a village well known for silk hand weaving and traditional Saa Paper making. Continue your excursion toward Kuangsi Waterfall, en route, and visit local villages of Lao ethnic minority groups. Upon arrival at Kuangsi Waterfall, you can splash around in the turquoise pools or walk along the forest trails and understand why Kuangsi Waterfall illustrates paradise. You will be back at your hotel in the late afternoon.

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Day 10 Biggest Farewell An Warmest Thank You - Luang Prabang Departure (B)

Following breakfast, we visit The National Museum (close on Tuesdays) at the former Royal Palace, which displays a lovely collection of artifacts reflecting the richness of Lao culture dating from the days of the early kings right through to the last sovereign. We then say farewell and depart this ancient city.