5 days / 4 nights

Day 1: Arrive Vientiane
Arrive in the capital this morning, where you are welcomed and escorted to the LAO PLAZA HOTEL. Enjoy the sights of this small city on the Mekong River, including Wat Sisaket with its thousands of miniature Buddha statues, Wat Prakeo—the original home of the Emerald Buddha—Wat Simulang, the Patousai and the striking That Luang monument, which is considered the national symbol. (D)

Day 2: Vientiane
After breakfast, visit the Cultural Park, Friendship Bridge and Buddha Park, which is located 15 miles south of Vientiane. Then visit the colorful market. The rest of the day is at leisure to relax and pursue independent activities. LAO PLAZA HOTEL (BL)

Day 3: Vientiane / Luang Prabang
Take a short flight to the enchanting former royal capital, Luang Prabang. This afternoon, visit the former Royal Palace, now home to the National Museum. Other sights include Wat Xieng Thong, Wat Sen, Wat Visun and a climb to the summit of Mount Phousi, where you are greeted by a spectacular, panoramic view of the town and the surrounding countryside. THE VILLA SANTI (BL)

Day 4: Mekong River Excursion
Enjoy a full-day boat trip on the mighty Mekong River. Sisit the Pak Ou Caves, which house thousands of gilded and wooden Buddha statues of varying sizes. After a picnic lunch on the banks of the Nam Ou River, visit the riverside village of Ban Phanom, where rice wine is locally distilled and traditional Laotian textiles are woven on ancient wooden looms. (BL)

Day 5: Luang Prabang / Depart Laos
Visit the capital’s famous Morning Market. Later, you are taken to the airport to catch your flight. (B)