The Best of Laos

1 Fly to Vientiane.

On arrival you will be transferred to your hotel and the rest of the day is at leisure.

Morning at leisure. This afternoon take a city tour which includes Wat Sisaket with its thousands of miniature Buddha statues, and the former royal temple of Wat Prakeo. See also the imposing Patuxai Monument, which resembles Paris' Arc de Triomphe before continuing to Laos' national icon, the golden stupa of That Luang.

Stop first at Prabaht Ponsan, a 15th century stupa and then at the interesting Ban Ton Na Mae Hmong Market, before you travel into the mountainous Khammouane province. Here you can stop at Phou Pha Marn for amazing views, and, the more adventurous can brave the incredible spider net bridge an unforgettable experience (at extra expense). Arrive at Hin Boun late afternoon (approx 5 hours drive).

Drive to Kong Lor village and onwards by small boat into the famous 4 mile long Kong Lor Cave, which has a spectacular 300 feet high cavern, and a breathtaking stalagmite gallery which you can explore on foot. On the other side of the cave, walk to Ban PonNgam, a remote village, where you can enjoy your picnic lunch. Later, return through the cave by boat, then continue downstream along the river for two hours admiring the superb limestone scenery.

After an early departure, stop at Ban Thabak, the 'bomb boat village' where fuel tanks from the Vietnam War are used as boats. Continue through rolling countryside, stopping to admire the Nam Mouan River before arriving at Ban Thasi for lunch. This afternoon, drive up the mountains and stop at several minority villages. Later, visit the ancient town of Muang Khoun, the former provincial capital, where you can explore the ruins of ancient pagodas and Wat Phiawat, a ruined temple containing a huge sitting Buddha.

Visit the Mines Action Group (or MAG) to learn about their important work. Travel on to the famous Plain of Jars sites, starting at picturesque Jar Site 2 and Jar Site 3, which has over 150 stone jars located on top of a hill, with great views. Later, visit Jar Site 1 which has over 300 jars. In the afternoon, stop at Mulberry Farm, a cooperation of local farmers, weavers, and artisans before heading to the Lone Buffalo Foundation. At this community project teachers improve opportunities for local children through education and sport.

During today's drive stop at Buddha Cave, which served as an army hospital during the Vietnam War. Also visit Ban Somboun, a Hmong village. After lunch in Phou Khoun, stop at Ban KiuKharm Pom and Ban Nam Ming. Arrive in Luang Prabang late afternoon (approx 8 hours drive).

Visit the quaint Royal Palace Museum, then follow the quiet back lanes to the beautiful historical Heuan Chan Heritage House. Walk onwards to Wat Xiengthong and then Wat Khili before finishing at the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre. This afternoon, board a private boat for a cruise upstream on the Mekong River to the mysterious Pak Ou Caves, which are crammed with thousands of Buddha statues. Enroute back, stop at Wat Dhone Khoun Temple.

Head out of town to the lovely Kuang Si Waterfall where you can take a refreshing dip in the turquoise pool or walk along the forest trails. Nearby, the Bear Rescue Centre does a great job protecting and rehabilitating the rare Asiatic Black Bear. There is the option to stop at Ock Pop Tock, a silk weaving centre on your way back.

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Bangkok. On arrival you are met and transferred to your hotel.

At leisure to explore as you wish. Don't miss the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, the amazing shopping and more.

Transfer to the airport for your onward journey.