Compare Jewels of Laos and Cambodia by Wildland Adventures vs Golden Triangle of Indochina In 10 Days by Realistic Asia

DAY 1: ARRIVE IN LUANG PRABANG
Fly into the picturesque city of Luang Prabang. Transfer to Hotel de la Paix, a boutique hotel set in a restored French Colonial fort. Take some time to settle in before being treated to the refined grace of a private Baci ceremony at a small village called Ban Khomkhuang. Translated to mean the “calling of your soul” this ceremony is deeply rooted in Lao culture and villages offer visitors tidings of good luck and fortune for their life and travels by gently tying cotton cords symbolizing luck, friendship and good health around your wrists. The ceremony is held at a private family home.Overnight at Hotel de la Paix.

DAY 2: LUANG PRABANG-NATIONAL MUSEUM –KUANG SI WATERFALL
The bells of the town's monasteries toll at dawn and golden lines of monks emerge to receive their morning rice from the townspeople. Arise early to respectfully witness this sacred ritual of barefoot monks weaving through the streets on their morning alms rounds.Visit the morning market and see an array of meats, vegetables, and spices. Return to your hotel for breakfast. Explore the historic and charming city of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for harmoniously blending traditional Buddhist temples with French colonial architecture.

Begin at WatXieng Thong, a 500-year-old temple that is considered the best example of the classic Luang Prabang style. Zig zag down small side streets, along back alleys and through temples allowing you to soak up the ambiance and appreciate the hidden charms of Luang Prabang. Walk up the peninsula, stopping at temples and other sites as you wish. Discover relics from the Kmer Empire at the National Museum, which is the former Royal Palace. It is said that those who do not climb the 328 steps of Phousi Mountain have not really experienced the city. Venture up this mountain and be rewarded with panoramic views of the city, the river, and the surrounding jungles. Travel south to the Kuang Si Waterfall where tiers of cascades splash into idyllic turquoise pools. Bring a bathing suit if you would like to swim and be sure to try the rope swing! Visit the nearby Sunbeam Refuge to learn more about the conservation of these endangered creatures.

A visit to the Living Crafts Center is an opportunity to discover time-honored textile art and meet the weavers who help keep this tradition alive.Overnight at Hotel de la Paix[BL]

DAY 3: LUANG PRABANG-HUAY SAE ELEPHANT ADVENTURE
Drive about 15 km outside of town to meet your first guide of the day, an elephant! Explore the camp -learning more about the project, speaking with the veterinarian, and helping to feed the elephants.This full day expedition begins with a 3-mile elephant ride across the river through teak forests and over hills to reach the protected Huay Sae Valley. Say goodbye to your elephant and have a traditional Lao lunch by a secluded waterfall where you can take a dip and cool off in the pool below the falls.  Trekking along the marvelous Huay Sae mountain stream the trail crosses bamboo bridges and passes waterfalls, impressive limestone formations and turquoise blue pools in the dense jungle. A Hmong guide shares indigenous knowledge about local flora and fauna and introduces you to daily life, agriculture, and farming practices of hill tribes all while trekking through fields, plantations, and teak forests.Float serenely down the Nam Khan River on a bamboo raft back to Luang Prabang observing the traditional village life of farmers and fishermen along the river. Free evening to explore the city. Overnight at Hotel de la Paix [BL]

DAY 4: LUANG PRABANG-PAK OU CAVES –MEKONG RIVER VILLAGES
Spend the day cruising the lifeblood of Southeast Asia, the Mekong River. Visit the Pak Ou Caves, sacred grottos cut into a sheer limestone cliff beside the river. A steep staircase takes you to the upper cave where the serene faces and figures of more than 3,000 Buddha images emerge from the darkness.Travel along this economic lifeline stopping at two riverside villages along the way. In Ban XangKhong, wander the narrow village streets between women weaving on wooden looms, stacks of colorful fabrics, and stalls selling all types of Lao, a very potent rice whiskey. Return to Luang Prabang in the late afternoon. Overnight at Hotel de la Paix [BL]

DAY 5: LUANG PRABANG –SIEM REAP
Spend the morning exploring new parts of Luang Prabang or revisiting old favorites before transferring to the airport for your flight to Siem Reap.After clearing immigration and customs meet your Cambodian guide and transfer to your hotel.The Victoria, a lovely colonial style hotel, is located right by the Royal Park and Residences. Have the evening to explore the gateway to Angkor and Cambodia‟s epicenter of chic, wandering the bustling night markets, meandering along the river, and indulging in Cambodian cuisine. Overnight at Victoria Angkor Resort [B]Flight:  Lao Airlines QV 513, departing Luang Prabang 10:40 AM, arriving Siem Reap 14:00 PM

DAY 6: SIEM REAP–THEGREATEST MEDIEVAL CITY ON EARTH
Wake before sunrise to arrive at Angkor at before most other tour groups as the vast complex of temples and boulevards emerges out of the jungle in the serene light of dawn.The ancient capital of the Khmer empire, Angkor is the greatest medieval city on earth, once ruled by warrior kings who dominated all of the present day Cambodia and much of Vietnam, Laos, Thailand and Myanmar.Your guide will take you to different areas of this sprawling complex, explaining the elaborate sculptural decorations and bas relief of the Angkor complex. You have time to wander, contemplate and photograph the site before returning to the hotel for breakfast. The Angkor complex is one of the largest archeological sites in the world. Return today entering by the southern gate of Angkor Thom to see the complex network of temples of Bayon, Baphoun, Phimean Akas, the Royal Enclosure, the terraces of elephants, and the Leper King. Drive to Ta Phrom, a jungle-clad temple that has been left in much the same condition in which it was found. Photogenic trees spiral out of the ruins making for a truly unique experience that contrasts that of restored Angkor.Perch on one of the temples to enjoy a lovely sunset view as a fitting finale to a grand day.Overnight at Victoria Angkor Resort [BL]

DAY 7: COUNTRYSIDE CYCLE –CITADEL OF WOMEN
Hop on bicycles and cycle from the city into the countryside, stopping by a local market to purchase ingredients for lunch. Drop your market booty at a local family‟s home and head out to explore the small villages and rice fields (by bike or on foot). Sharing rural roads on bikes or walking amongst locals is a great way to observe daily life, to photograph the countryside, and to chat with people you meet along the way. When your belly starts to grumble cycle back to the house and enjoy lunch with your new family friends. Further in the countryside is the lesser known Banteay Srei.The walls of the "Citadel of Women" are dense with some of the most beautiful and intricate carvings of any Angkorian temple. It is said they could only have been carved by the hands of women. Its relatively small size, pink sandstone walls, and ornate design give it a magical aura and a distinct feel from other Khmer temples. In the afternoon, ramble through the labyrinth of gray stone courtyards of Preah Khan and listen to raucous parrots screech and watch the monkeys lounging on the temple walls as the day comes to a close.Return to Siem Reap for overnight at Victoria Angkor Resort [BL]

DAY 8: SIEM REAP –BENG MEALEA &KAMPONG KLANG
Venture further afield to Beng Mealea, a 900-year-old seldom-visited temple where the jungle envelopes the sandstone sanctuary covered in carvings from Hindu and Buddhist mythology. Enter amongst the ruins of the royal road amongst kapok trees whose roots twist and wind their way around courtyards and galleries. After a peaceful picnic lunch in the complex, drive to Kampong Kleang, a fishing village on a flood plain where houses are built on 30-foot-tall stilts. Watch the local fishermen using their inventive ways to catch fish. Speak with students in the local school and in the late afternoon take a boat to watch the spectacular sunset over Tonle Sap Lake. Overnight at Victoria Angkor Resort [BL]

DAY 9: PHNOM PENH
Transfer to the SiemReap airport for your flight to Phnom Penh. Check in at your hotel before meeting your guide in the evening to head to Phnom Penh‟s riverfront where a boat is waiting to take you on a sunset river cruise down the Tonle Sap River. Float the river and marvel at the stark differences of Cambodia; this river lined by the metropolis of Phnom Penh is the same one that feeds the flood plains of the stilted fishing village you visited yesterday. Return to your hotel and overnight at Raffles le Royal [B]Flight:  Lao Airlines, departing Siem Reap 11:50 AM, arriving Phnom Penh 12:35 PM

DAY 10: PHNOM PENH WALKING CITY TOUR
Phnom Penh is not just another metropolis -it‟s the old Asia of your imagination–beautiful historical buildings, aromatic street food around every corner, endless markets, monks passing on the streets. This fascinating city with a dark history of war and turmoil is now filled with vibrancy and warmth.Start your walking tour with a visit to the Royal Palace and a visit to the Silver Pagoda, aptly named after its shimmering floor, which is covered with over 5,000 silver less.Next up is the Apsara Art Association, whose aim is to preserve Cambodian arts and culture while teaching disadvantaged children traditional dancing. The association also provides foreign language classes, housing, and educational support. Later visit the National Museum which houses everything from ancient Angkorian sculpture and inscription to wooden tools and contemporary archeological exhibits. The museum is one of the most intellectually stimulating and calming experiences in the city Eat lunch at a very special restaurant, Friends or Romdeng, where 100% of the profits are re-invested in training activities for the local staff.Friends is a training restaurant that helps former street children get a head start in the hospitality industry. The sky won‟t be the only thing darkening in the afternoon.  Visit Choeng Ek, the location of the infamous Killing Fields and continue to Tuol Sleng prison, the prison where thousands of people perished in the darkest hours of Cambodian history. This tour offers a comprehensive view of Phnom Penh, one that will take you on an emotional roller coaster. From the horrors of the Pol Pot regime to the optimistic outlook at the Apsara Art Association, you‟ll leave with a better idea of the intricate culture of the Cambodian people –where it‟s been and where it‟s going. Return to your hotel and overnight at Raffles le Royal [BL]

DAY 11: SONG SAAPRIVATE ISLAND AND MARINE SANCTUARY
Drive through the Cambodian countryside to Sihanoukville.Upon arrival, a private speed boat takes you to Song Saa Private Island. Song San Khmer means „Sweetheart‟ and the resort‟s location is as seductive as the name implies. It is made up of two small islands –KohOuen and Koh Bong which are connected by a footbridge over a marine reserve. It has undergone 5 years of restoration and rejuvenation for its flora, fauna, and coral making for a truly spectacular undersea experience. Song Saa is a sustainable sanctuary inspired by Cambodian fishing villages. Guests to Song Saa Island will be among the first travelers to experience this beautiful, untouched world, where rare hornbills perch on your balcony and the warm sapphire waters teem with life. The resort is all inclusive. Overnight at Song Saa Private Island.[BLD]

DAY 12: SONG SAA
Do as much or as little as you wish. Kayak amongst the mangroves, snorkel around the islands in the marine reserve, visit the local village or embark on a Song Saa island or marine safari. Of course, you can always just spend the day relaxing at your villa, mere feet above the shimmering sea abundant with colorful fish and turtles. Overnight at Song Saa Private Island [BLD]

DAY 13: DEPARTURE
Say goodbye to Song Saa. Transfer back to Sihanoukville by speedboat and continue on to the airport in Phnom Penh to begin your journey home.[B]

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.