Thailand & Laos Adventure

Intrepid Travel · 13 days
Thailand & Laos Adventure
Thailand & Laos Adventure
Thailand & Laos Adventure
Thailand & Laos Adventure
Thailand & Laos Adventure
Thailand & Laos Adventure
Thailand & Laos Adventure
Thailand & Laos Adventure
Thailand & Laos Adventure
Thailand & Laos Adventure
Thailand & Laos Adventure
Thailand & Laos Adventure
Thailand & Laos Adventure
13 Days
From AUD $3055
Trip Type
Small Group
Activity Level
Light

Rating


 (20 reviews)

Thailand & Laos Adventure

Thailand & Laos Adventure

Intrepid Travel · 13 days
4.7
20 Reviews
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Duration

13 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Moderate

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Travel from Bangkok to Vientiane and experience the delights of northern Thailand and the laidback river lifestyle of Laos.

Highlights

  • Travel from Thailand's lively capital and exciting Chiang Mai to the riverside tranquility of Laos with its gorgeous natural scenery.
  • Discover just why Luang Prabang has UNESCO status as you uncover the French influence, beautiful temples, traditional arts and the world-renowned night markets.
  • Visit impactful local organisations that support local communities, including a social enterprise that empowers local women through preserving traditional textile making.
  • Explore the mysterious beauty of the Laos jungle as you walk side by side with recently rescued elephants on stroll through their natural habitat at Mandalao.
  • Rise with the sun and watch saffron-robed monks shuffle between houses, where the faithful wait with offerings as part of an alms giving ritual.

Trip Details

Duration

13 days

Transportation

Longtail boat,Taxi,Minivan,Overnight train,Boat,Tuk tuk,Private bus

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Bangkok, Lao Pdr

Finishes

Vientiane, Lao Pdr

Accommodations

Moderate

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

1
Day 1: Bangkok
Sa-wat dee! Welcome to Thailand. Your adventure begins in the bustling capital of Bangkok, famous for its tuk-tuks, khlong boats and street vendors serving up delicious local food. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm to meet your local leader and group of fellow travellers. It’s recommended you arrive a few days early to explore the city – uncover the Chinatown area, visit the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, wander down Khao San Road, indulge in a Thai massage or see the backstreets of Bangkok by bike on an Urban Adventure. After the meeting tonight, maybe tuck into some into world famous street food for dinner.

Optional Activities:

  • Bangkok - Grand Palace (500 THB)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
2
Day 2: Bangkok - Overnight train
Begin the day with a river cruise down the Chao Phraya River to explore the famous Khlongs (canals). Life along these canals seems a world away from the chaotic streets of the capital. Visit Wat Pho – one of the Bangkok temples, with a 46-m-long gold-plated Buddha reclining inside. Even the feet of this statue are incredible, 3 m long and intricately decorated with mother of pearl. The temple grounds are equally fascinating, filled with beautifully decorated stupas, halls and shrines. This evening you’ll head north to Chiang Mai on an overnight train journey.

Included Activities:

  • Bangkok - Khlong boat canal tour
  • Bangkok - Wat Pho

Optional Activities:

  • Bangkok - Thai Massage (300 THB)
  • Bangkok - Jim Thompson's House (200 THB)

Accommodation:

  • Overnight train (Number of Nights: 1)
3
Day 3: Chiang Mai
The most vibrant city in northern Thailand, Chiang Mai has many famous temples and an interesting old city area. When you arrive, embark on a scenic, winding drive to one of the country's most stunning temple complexes – Doi Suthep. A 300-step naga-guarded stairway leads you to the temples, and the climb is well worth the effort. Take in the hypnotic atmosphere of chanting Buddhist monks and the sweeping views over the city. After making your way back down, you’ll check into your hotel and have a free afternoon and evening to explore. Maybe wander through the Night Bazaar or relax at a restaurant along the riverfront. Make sure to sample some traditional northern Thai food – the signature dish is kao soy (yellow wheat noodles in a curry broth, traditionally served with chicken or beef).

Included Activities:

  • Chiang Mai - Doi Suthep Temple Complex

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
4
Day 4: Chiang Mai
Today is free for you to explore and there are plenty of optional activities available. Maybe join a local cooking class and discover the secrets of real Thai cuisine – you'll learn the key ingredients, how to use them and what to use in their place if you can’t get them at home. As well as taking your own comprehensive recipe book home with you, you'll feast on the fruits of your labour for lunch. Maybe get active with a bicycle tour to discover the city and surrounding countryside from a different perspective or be spirited away on an early morning Chiang Mai tour that puts you at the epicentre of Buddhist rituals. Learn to meditate, offer alms to monks and make an offering at a temple.

Optional Activities:

  • Chiang Mai - Thai cooking course (1000 THB)
  • Chiang Mai - Bicycle tour (1100 THB)
  • Chiang Mai - ChangChill Elephant Sanctuary (1900 THB)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
5
Day 5: Chiang Khong
Take a journey through rural countryside to the Thai border town of Chiang Khong. On the way, visit privately owned Wat Rong Khun, more commonly known as the White Temple – a must visit in Chiang Rai. This contemporary temple is constantly being updated, and its strange design references to Buddhist mythology, human sin and pop culture icons such as Michael Jackson, Harry Potter and Superman. Formerly known as Juon, riverside Chiang Khong remains an important market town for the surrounding hill tribes and for trade with Laos. Stretch your legs with a stroll around town, then maybe continue to Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Luang. Tonight, why not enjoy a final Thai drink and dinner, while Laos beckons from across the mighty Mekong.

Included Activities:

  • Chiang Rai - Wat Rong Khun (White Temple)

Accommodation:

  • Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
6
Day 6: Mekong River - Pak Beng
After crossing into Laos, you’ll be joined by additional Laos guides (a local government requirement). Board a slow boat for the 2-day journey down the mighty Mekong River to Luang Prabang. The journey is relaxed, so you can experience the slow pace of village life and the breathtaking scenery along the river up close. The river boat is basic in nature, with a toilet, covered roof and open sides to take in the fresh air. There are seats in the front of the boat and a small open area in the back where you can have a nap on the mat, play cards, read or have lunch. Dock at the small town of Pak Beng to spend the night. Hmong and tribal Thai people are frequently seen on the main streets, where vendors sell local textiles and handicrafts.

Included Activities:

  • Mekong River - 2 day boat trip

Accommodation:

  • Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
7
Day 7: Mekong River - Luang Prabang
Reboard the boat and cruise to the Pak Ou Caves – an important religious site overlooking the river at the junction of the Mekong and Ou Rivers, consisting of two sacred limestone caverns filled with Buddha images of all styles and sizes. The lower cave, known as Tham Ting, is entered from the river by a series of steps and can easily be seen in daylight. The higher cave, Tham Phum, is deeper and requires a torch for viewing. Continue to the former royal capital of Luang Prabang. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed city is a favourite of many travellers, sitting in the hills of northern Laos on the confluence of the Mekong and Khan rivers. The city is claimed to be ‘the best-preserved city in South East Asia’ by UNESCO. Stay in a hotel tonight and if you’re feeling energetic, maybe climb Mt Phousi for some sunset views. You can climb the 328 zigzag steps up to the sacred gilded stupa and big drum of the Phu Si Temple for a panoramic view of Luang Prabang and its surroundings.

Included Activities:

  • Luang Prabang - Pak Ou Caves

Optional Activities:

  • Luang Prabang - Wat Phu Si sunset walk (2 USD)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
8
Day 8: Luang Prabang
Once the heart and soul of the ancient Lao Kingdom (Lan Xang) and designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1995, Luang Prabang is endowed with a legacy of historic, red-roofed temples and French Indochinese architecture. Rise with the sun this morning and witness a traditional alms giving ceremony. View the procession of saffron-robed monks on their daily outing collecting food offered by devotees (a practice that dates back centuries). The offerings must be collected early, as the monks cannot eat anything after midday. By giving food to a monk, it is believed you ‘het bon’ (make merit) which will be carried over into the next life. Your leader will guide you through the dos and don’ts and help you to take part. Return to your hotel for breakfast, then later, head to Kuang Si Falls – a multi-level cascade of bright blue pools. After a swim, visit a local social enterprise that supports and trains local women in weaving. Aiming to empower, while also preserving the traditional skill of making Laos textile, this enterprise will teach you about their work as you have a drink by Mekong River.

Included Activities:

  • Luang Prabang - Kuang Si Waterfalls
  • Luang Prabang - Alms giving ceremony
  • Luang Prabang - Weaving workshop and social enterprise visit

Optional Activities:

  • Luang Prabang - Night Market - Free

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
9
Day 9: Luang Prabang
This morning, you’ll learn about a local elephant project in nearby Mandalao that will give you a new perspective and profound understanding of these magnificent creatures. Walk side by side with recently rescued elephants on stroll through their natural habitat (the Laos jungle) – a perfect way for these happy creatures to enjoy their freedom after decades of hard labour in logging camps. You'll leave the village of Xieng Lom before taking a quick boat ride across the Nam Khan River where you’ll be introduced to your gigantic companions. Feed them some special treats (a sure way to win their friendship) followed by a gentle, therapeutic walk along a small dirt path, past traditional farms and the Huay Nok stream – where you may be able to spot elephants splashing around in the water as they cool off from the hot Lao sun! Return to Luang Prabang in the afternoon and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Included Activities:

  • Luang Prabang - MandaLao Elephant Conservation (The Intrepid Foundation partner) lunch & trek

Optional Activities:

  • Luang Prabang - Royal Theatre (20 USD)
  • Luang Prabang - Wat Xieng Thong (3 USD)
  • Luang Prabang - National Museum (4 USD)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
10
Day 10: Vang Vieng
Take a high-speed train to Vang Vieng. Situated on the Nam Song River, Vang Vieng is surrounded by towering limestone karsts and is a great place to enjoy being surrounded by nature. After checking in to the hotel, use tonight to plan out your next few days with your group and leader.

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
11
Day 11: Vang Vieng
There’s plenty to do in and around Vang Vieng, known as an adventure town thanks to its unique and varied surrounding country. The area is renowned for its caves, many of which are easily accessible from the town. Perhaps the most famous is the cave of Tham Chang – a beautiful cavern fed by a natural spring, making it a perfect spot for a swim. Hire bicycles to explore further afield, hike the trails to nearby lookout points, join a daytrip to go kayaking on the river, or visit an organic mulberry farm just outside town.

Optional Activities:

  • Vang Vieng - Bicycle hire (2 USD)
  • Vang Vieng - Wat Si Vieng Song - Free
  • Vang Vieng - Kayaking (35 USD)
  • Vang Vieng - Tham Phu Kham Cave (10000 LAK)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
12
Day 12: Vientiane
Continue by private minibus to the country's capital, Vientiane – possibly Asia's most laidback capital. Vientiane has a wealth of cultural delights to discover on foot, or by jumbo (tuk-tuk). Faded mansions, tree-lined boulevards and old temples create an atmosphere of timelessness, particularly in the older part of town along the Mekong River. Visit Wat Si Saket – the oldest temple still standing and home to almost 7000 Buddha images. Visit COPE visitors centre – an organisation dedicated to assisting those who have been injured by the multitude of unexploded ordinance across the country. This is an excellent cause and a chance to educate yourself about Laos' devastating war history as well as buy a snack or drink from their Karma Cafe. This evening, maybe join your fellow travellers for dinner and celebrate a trip well travelled.

Included Activities:

  • Vientiane - COPE visit
  • Vientiane - Wat Si Saket

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
13
Day 13: Vientiane
There are no activities planned for the final day and you can depart the accommodation at any time. If you'd like to extend your stay and check out the Pha That Luang Monument, just speak to your booking agent.

Optional Activities:

  • Vientiane - Xieng Khuan (Buddha Park) tuk tuk & entrance (205000 LAK)
  • Vientiane - Pha That Luang Monument (incl. long skirt hire to enter) (15000 LAK)
  • Vientiane - Lao Textile Museum (30000 LAK)
  • Vientiane - Haw Pha Kaeo Museum of Religious Art (10000 LAK)
Exclusions
  • Flights to and from origin and destinations
  • Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
  • Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
  • Recommended gratuities/tipping
  • Optional activities/tours
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.
Important Information
Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

  • It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
  • Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
  • Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.
Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.
AUD $3,055
(Tour only)
Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 13 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

Travel from Bangkok to Vientiane and experience the delights of northern Thailand and the laidback river lifestyle of Laos.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 10 Nov 2025

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Customer Reviews

Overall Rating
Excellent
4.5
Guide
Excellent
4.5
Itinerary
Excellent
4.5
Accommodations
Excellent
4.5
Transportation
Excellent
4.5
Tour Operator
Excellent
4.5
Food
Excellent
4.5
4.5
Justin
Traveled, April 2024

04/25/2024

This is a well organized itinerary to get to know the locals, to experience different transportations, and having enough of personal time. Although it’s hot, try to attend during the new year. Don’t miss the water festival!

5.0
Andy
Traveled, March 2024

04/12/2024

5 stars all the way, If you are lucky, Emmy will be your guide. Excellent destination and life experience. Comfortable way to travel. So many happy memories made.

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

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