Highlights of Laos - Vietnam - Cambodia 15 days

DETAIL PROGRAM:

Day 1: Luang Prabang Arrival

Upon your arrival at Luang Prabang International Airport (LPQ), you will be warmly greeted and transferred to your hotel. Settle into this enchanting UNESCO World Heritage town, nestled at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers. Take some time to relax after your journey, or perhaps enjoy a leisurely evening stroll along the Mekong River or explore the vibrant Night Market.

Day 2: Luang Prabang - Pak Ou Caves

Immerse yourself in the spiritual and natural beauty surrounding Luang Prabang.

• Morning: Embark on a scenic boat trip along the Mekong River to the sacred Pak Ou Caves. These two limestone caves (Tham Ting and Tham Theung) are filled with thousands of Buddha statues, left by pilgrims over centuries. You'll explore both caves, observing the myriad of different Buddha figures.
• Afternoon: On your way back to Luang Prabang, you can stop at local villages along the Mekong. Consider visiting Ban Xanghai, known for its traditional Lao rice wine (Lao-Lao) production, where you can observe the process and perhaps sample some. Alternatively, visit Ban Xang Khong, famous for its traditional Saa paper and silk weaving.
• Evening: Explore more of Luang Prabang's charm, perhaps dining at a riverside restaurant or enjoying the peaceful ambiance of the town.

Day 3: Luang Prabang - Kuangsi Waterfall - Vientiane

Discover a natural wonder before transitioning to Laos's capital.

• Morning: Journey to the enchanting Kuang Si Waterfalls, a multi-tiered cascade with stunning turquoise pools perfect for swimming and relaxation. You can also visit the Bear Rescue Center located within the park, which provides sanctuary for sun bears and moon bears rescued from the illegal wildlife trade.
• Afternoon: After enjoying the waterfalls, transfer to Luang Prabang International Airport (LPQ) for your domestic flight to Vientiane (VTE), the capital of Laos.
• Evening: Upon arrival in Vientiane, transfer to your hotel. You might enjoy a pleasant evening stroll along the Mekong River promenade.

Day 4: Vientiane - Buddha Park

Explore Vientiane's spiritual and artistic highlights.

• Morning: Begin your day with a visit to Pha That Luang, Laos's most important national monument and a symbol of both Buddhism and Lao sovereignty. Then, explore Patuxai (Victory Monument), often referred to as the "Arc de Triomphe of Vientiane," offering panoramic views from the top.
• Afternoon: Drive outside the city to Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan), a whimsical and fascinating sculpture park filled with over 200 Buddhist and Hindu statues and artistic creations. It's a unique and intriguing site for exploration and photography.
• Evening: Enjoy a relaxing evening in Vientiane, perhaps trying some local Lao cuisine.

Day 5: Vientiane - Hanoi Flight

Transition from Laos to the vibrant capital of Vietnam.

• Morning: Enjoy breakfast at your hotel in Vientiane. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time for last-minute souvenir shopping or a final visit to a temple.
• Daytime: Transfer to Wattay International Airport (VTE) for your international flight to Hanoi (HAN), Vietnam's charming capital.
• Evening: Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi, you will be warmly greeted and transferred to your hotel. Settle into this bustling city, known for its tree-lined boulevards, French colonial architecture, and delicious street food.

Day 6: Hanoi - Halong Bay

Embark on an unforgettable cruise through a natural wonder.

• Morning: Depart Hanoi by road for Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Vietnam's most iconic natural attractions. The scenic drive takes you through the lush Red River Delta.
• Daytime/Evening: Board your chosen cruise ship and embark on an overnight journey through the spectacular seascape of Halong Bay. Marvel at thousands of limestone karsts and islets rising dramatically from the emerald waters. Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch and dinner on board, relax on deck, and participate in activities such as kayaking, swimming, or exploring a magnificent cave.

Day 7: Halong Bay - Hanoi

Continue your Halong Bay experience before returning to the capital.

• Morning: Wake up amidst the stunning scenery of Halong Bay. Enjoy a light breakfast or brunch on board as the cruise continues to navigate through more hidden coves and islets. You might participate in a tai chi session on deck or visit a floating fishing village.
• Afternoon: Disembark from your cruise and transfer back to Hanoi by road.
• Evening: Enjoy a relaxed evening in Hanoi, perhaps exploring the Old Quarter at leisure or trying a local restaurant.

Day 8: Hanoi City Tour - Da Nang - Hoi An

Explore Hanoi's highlights before flying to Central Vietnam.

• Morning: Embark on a Hanoi City Tour. Visit key historical and cultural sites such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (exterior view, if open), Ho Chi Minh's Stilt House, the One Pillar Pagoda, and the Temple of Literature (Vietnam's first university).
• Afternoon: Transfer to Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) for your domestic flight to Da Nang (DAD) in Central Vietnam.
• Evening: Upon arrival in Da Nang, you will be transferred by road to Hoi An (approximately 30-45 minutes), a charming UNESCO World Heritage ancient town. Check into your hotel and soak in the town's enchanting lantern-lit atmosphere.

Day 9: Hoi An Ancient Town - Road Transfer to Hue

Immerse yourself in Hoi An's charm before heading to the imperial city.

• Morning: Explore Hoi An Ancient Town on foot. Wander through its narrow streets, visiting highlights like the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, the vibrant Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, a traditional old merchant's house, and the bustling local market. Enjoy the unique blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese architectural styles.
• Afternoon: After lunch and some free time in Hoi An, embark on a scenic road transfer to Hue (approximately 3 hours). The drive takes you over the stunning Hai Van Pass, offering breathtaking coastal views (weather permitting).
• Evening: Arrive in Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. Check into your hotel and relax.

Day 10: Hue - Ho Chi Minh City

Discover Hue's imperial heritage before flying south.

• Morning: Explore the highlights of Hue. Visit the majestic Imperial Citadel, a sprawling complex that was once the home of the Nguyen emperors. You'll also visit the impressive Thien Mu Pagoda, an iconic seven-story pagoda overlooking the Perfume River.
• Afternoon: Transfer to Phu Bai Airport (HUI) in Hue for your domestic flight to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN).
• Evening: Upon arrival in Ho Chi Minh City, you will be transferred to your hotel. Enjoy a final evening in Vietnam, perhaps experiencing the city's vibrant nightlife or a farewell dinner.

Day 11: Cu Chi Tunnels - Ho Chi Minh City Tour

Delve into Vietnam's wartime history and explore Ho Chi Minh City's landmarks.

• Morning: Drive outside the city to the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, an intricate underground network used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War. Explore the tunnels, learn about the ingenious guerrilla warfare, and perhaps even crawl through a section to understand the living conditions.
• Afternoon: Return to Ho Chi Minh City for a city tour. Visit the War Remnants Museum for a powerful insight into the Vietnam War. Continue to the historic Reunification Palace (former Presidential Palace), the beautiful Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Central Post Office, both impressive examples of French colonial architecture. You can also stroll through the bustling Ben Thanh Market.

Day 12: Ho Chi Minh City - Siem Reap Flight

Transition from Vietnam to the ancient wonders of Cambodia.

• Morning: Enjoy breakfast at your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time for last-minute souvenir shopping or a final visit to a specific attraction.
• Daytime: Transfer to Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) for your international flight to Siem Reap (REP), Cambodia.
• Evening: Upon arrival at Siem Reap International Airport, you will be warmly greeted and transferred to your hotel. Settle into this vibrant town, the gateway to the magnificent Angkor Archaeological Park. You might explore Pub Street or the Night Market in the evening.

Day 13: Ta Prohm - Angkor Wat Complex

Explore the iconic temples of Angkor.

• Full Day: Embark on a comprehensive tour of the Angkor Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Morning: Begin with Ta Prohm, the "Tomb Raider" temple, where ancient stone structures are intertwined with giant tree roots, creating a mystical atmosphere.
• Afternoon: Explore the magnificent Angkor Wat Complex, the largest religious monument in the world and the crown jewel of Khmer architecture. Marvel at its intricate bas-reliefs, grand towers, and spiritual ambiance. Witness the stunning sunset over Angkor Wat (weather permitting).

Day 14: Siem Reap Free Day

Enjoy a day of leisure or further exploration in Siem Reap.

• Full Day: This free day allows you to customize your Siem Reap experience. Options include:
  • Visiting other temples within the Angkor Park that pique your interest (e.g., Angkor Thom, Bayon Temple with its smiling faces, Banteay Srei with its intricate carvings).
  • Exploring the local markets for souvenirs.
  • Taking a Cambodian cooking class.
  • Visiting the Cambodian Landmine Museum or the Angkor National Museum.
  • Enjoying a traditional Apsara dance performance with dinner.
  • Relaxing by your hotel pool.

Day 15: Siem Reap Departure

Your grand Indochina adventure concludes.

• Morning: Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel in Siem Reap. Depending on your international flight schedule, you may have some free time for last-minute souvenir shopping or a final moment of relaxation.
• Departure: Transfer to Siem Reap International Airport (REP) for your departure flight, carrying a lifetime of incredible memories from Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia.