DAY 1 CHIANG RAI

On arrival transfer to the hotel and day at leisure. In the evening opportunity to explore Chiang Rai's little, but colorful night market. Overnight.

DAY 2 CHIANG RAI - THATON

In the morning first drive to Chiang Saen, the former royal Thai town. Then follow the mighty Mekong River until you reach the famous Golden Triangle. Visit the Opium Museum. Go on to Mae Sai, border- and market town. An optional side trip to the Burmese border town of Tachilek can be arranged. In the afternoon the tour continues through the mountain wilderness, passing many hill tribe villages, such as Akha, Yao or Lisu. Late afternoon arrive at the small town of Thaton. Overnight at a resort on the banks of the Kok River.

DAY 3 THATON - CHIANG MAI

Visit Wat Thaton, the picturesque hill top temple with its giant Buddha images and great views. Then continue towards Chiang Mai, the northern capital. On the way visit a rice mill, one of the rare Palong hill tribe villages, as well as a local market and an orchid farm. If time does allow, there will be some additional sightseeing in Chiang Mai. Overnight.

DAY 4 CHIANG MAI - LUANG PRABANG

In the morning time for some sightseeing in Chiang Mai (it is also possible to visit an elephant camp). Later take a short flight to Luang Prabang. Transfer to the hotel. Then enjoy a boat trip on the Mekong and visit the holy Thum Ting caves at Pak Ou, that are enshrining numerous Buddha images. On the way back stop at a riverside village, which is famous for it's rice wine distillation. Overnight in Luang Prabang. Time for a stroll and visit the local market.

DAY 5 LUANG PRABANG

Today visit Kuangsy waterfall and some remote villages, which also includes a Hmong hill tribe village. In the afternoon take a tour through the old Laotian capital, which will show you the old King Palace and it's famous ancient temples. Spend another night in Luang Prabang.

DAY 6 LUANG PRABANG - VIENTIANE

In the morning transfer to the airport for a short flight to the Laotian capital of Vientiane. Transfer to the hotel. In the afternoon enjoy a sightseeing tour in Vientiane, which includes all major sights, such as That Luang stupa, Pratu Xai, Wat Si Saket and the central market. Overnight.
Instead flying to Vientiane it is also possible to travel overland through the mountain wilderness via Vangvieng or Phonsawan (Plain of Jars) incl. one extra night. See also our itinerary LAO702

DAY 7 VIENTIANE

Transfer to the airport or to Lao/Thai border,also shuttle bus all the way to Udon Thani possible.

Remarks:

Visa available on arrival in Luang Prabang against a fee of US$ 30.-

Price includes:

Air-conditioned transportation during the tour, English speaking tour guide, all transfers and excursions as mentioned in the above itinerary, domestic air tickets as mentioned above, accommodation at middle- and upper middle class hotels and resorts, daily breakfast, lunch during tours, entrance fees

Not included:

Visa, all drinks, meals not mentioned in the itinerary, tips and personal expenses