Cambodia & Laos Discovery Tour

Destinations: Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Vientiane, Xieng Khouang, Luang Prabang

Starts Phnom Penh

+ 3 Destinations Siem Reap, Vientiane...

Ends Luang Prabang

Excellent 1 reviews

Trip overview

Go deep into these two great countries as you get into riverside vibes, cool waterside bars, as well taking in jaw-dropping sunrises at the likes of un-missable Angkor Wat. Take part in an alms ceremony in Luang Prabang, hit the streets for a bike tour, and see ancient Apsara dance performances...each day is different, and downright amazing.

Duration: 17 days / 16 nights
Activities: Kayaking, Walking , Elephant Riding, Cycling, Sightseeing, Cultural, Historical, Nature Discovery
Tour type: Private Tour
Themes:Laos Cambodia Tours

Highlights

Phnom Penh - Capital of Cambodia surrounded by the Mekong River; home to majestic palaces and pagodas
Siem Reap - Gateway to the Angkor Wat temple complex
Vientiane - Capital of Laos: a charming city filled with villas and boulevards.
The Plain of Jars - a megalithic archaeological landscape in Laos. It consists of thousands of stone jars scattered around the upland valleys and the lower foothills of the central plain of the Xiangkhoang Plateau.
Luang Prabang - Entry point into Laos and UNESCO World Heritage listed town which retains original character

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Tour itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Phnom Penh (N/A)

On your arrival in Phnom Penh, you will be welcomed by our local guide at the airport then transfer to the hotel in the city centre and leisure time to relax.

If time permits, we begin our discovery of Phnom Penh in the thriving old market areas and then zip around the modernising parts of the city, visiting the exotic Central Markets where gems, silks and statues entice. End your afternoon with the visit of the Wat Phnom Temple, Phnom Penh's namesake, from where you can enjoy views over the tree-lined avenues of Phnom Penh during sunset. Overnight at hotel in Phnom Penh.

Day 2: Phnom Penh City Tour (B)

Continue our Phnom Penh discovery with the visit to the Victory Monument, and the National Museum, also called Musee des Beaux-Arts. A French archaeologist and painter, Georges Groslier, designed it in Khmer style in 1917. The museum contains a collection of Khmer art - notably sculptures - throughout the ages. Visit the Royal Palace, built by King Norodom in 1866 on the site of the old town, and the Silver Pagoda. Located within the grounds of the Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda is so named because of its floor, which is made up of 5000 silver tiles. The treasures found inside include a solid gold Buddha encrusted and weighing 90kilograms and a small 17th century emerald and baccarat crystal Buddha.

We take a 'walk back' into the brutal, (modern) history that Cambodia shockingly suffered under Pol Pot's reign during the 1970's, visiting 'The Killing Fields' & S-21 - The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum in the afternoon. Overnight at hotel in Phnom Penh.

Day 3: Phnom Penh – Siem Reap By Bus (B)

After breakfast in hotel, you are transferred to the bus station for the 6 hour bus trip to Siem Reap passing the real countryside of Cambodia. The bus will stop at some rest stops to relax where you can interact with the local people and local vendors. Arrive in Siem Reap in early afternoon, transfer to the hotel in the town centre for check in and relax.

Later in the afternoon, have an orientation tour of the Siem Reap town to visit the Angkor National Museum which we can see the artifacts from the every part of Cambodia in the ancient time. Visit Preah Ang Chheck, Ang Chhorm (The main shrine in Siem Reap) for the Siem Reap orientation. Visit the local markets in town. Overnight at hotel in Siem Reap.

Day 4: Siem Reap – Angkor Wat Tour (B)

In the morning, visit the most famous of all the temples on the plain of Angkor: Angkor Wat. The temple complex covers 81 hectares and is comparable in size to the Imperial Palace in Beijing. Its distinctive five towers are emblazoned on the Cambodian flag and the 12th century masterpiece is considered by art historians to be the prime example of classical Khmer art and architecture. Angkor Wat’s five towers symbolize Meru’s five peaks - the enclosed wall represents the mountains at the edge of the world and the surrounding moat, the ocean beyond.

In the afternoon, you continue your temple visits to Preah Khan. Built by the King Jayavarman VII, Preah Khan is, like Ta Prohm, a place of towered enclosures and shoulder hugging corridors. Unlike Ta Prohm, however, the temple of Prea Khan is in a reasonable state of preservation and ongoing restoration efforts should maintain and even improve this situation. Neak Pean, a fountain built in the middle of a pool (representing the paradisiacal Himalayan mountain-lake), Ta Som and Banteay Samre, built in the third quarter of the 12th century. It consists of a central temple with four wings preceded by a hall and accompanied by two libraries, the southern example remarkably well preserved. Two concentric walls enclose the ensemble. Overnight at hotel in Siem Reap.

Day 5: Siem Reap – Angkor Wat Tour (B)

Morning, Visit the South Gate (with its huge statues depicting the churning of the ocean of milk), the ancient capital of Angkor Thom (12th century), Bayon Temple (unique for its 54 towers decorated with over 200 smiling faces of Avolokitesvara), the Royal Enclosure, Phimeanakas, the Elephants Terrace and the Terrace of the Leper King.

Afternoon, transfer to Banteay Srei temple (10th c), regarded as the jewel in the crown of Classical Khmer Art. Continue to Ta Prohm, one of the area’s most beautiful temples. Ta Prohm has been relatively untouched since it was discovered and retains much of its mystery. Overnight at hotel in Siem Reap.

Day 6: Biking To The Villages & Boat Trip On Tonle Sap Lake (B)

Breakfast at hotel and today we heading to Roluos group with back road through the villages and visit the Roluos Group. The monuments of Roluos, which served as the capital of Indravarman I (reigned 877-89), are among the earliest large, permanent temples built by the Khmers and mark the beginning of Khmer classical art. Preah Ko erected by Indravarman I in the late 9th century dedicated by the King to his ancestors in 880. Bakong the largest and most interesting of the Roluos group temples, with his active Buddhist monastery just to the north of the east entrance. Lolei built on an islet in the center of a large reservoir (now rice fields) by Yasovarman I, the founder to the first city at Angkor.

Afternoon, we will put all our bikes on boat and cruise to Kampong Phluk Village, visit the flooded forest, traditional house and proceed our boat to Chong Kneas Village and the end of the tour we ride our bikes from Chong Kneas Village to Siem Reap town. Overnight at hotel in Siem Reap.

Day 7: Siem Reap – Vientiane (B)

Morning, leisure day in Siem Reap to relax or use the spa facility in the hotel.

Early afternoon, transfer to the airport for the flight to Vientiane QV930 @16:00-17:55. Upon arrival in Vientiane Capital, you are met and transferred to your centrally located hotel. Overnight in Vientiane.

Day 8: Vientiane City Tour (B)

Today, we start visiting the major sights of the capital; including the oldest Wat Sisaket, the temple with thousands of miniature Buddha statues and the former royal temple of Wat Hor Prakeo previously housed the famous Emerald Buddha Image. On the way to the famous and sacred structure of That Luang Stupa, we stop to take some pictures of the imposing Patuxay Monument, which is well known as Vientiane’s own Arc de Triumph an the local market. Overnight hotel in in Vientiane.

Day 9: Vientiane - Budha Park (B/L)

After breakfast, take a trip by road to outskirts of Vientiane, following the road along the bank of Mekong river to visit the Buddha park of Xieng Khuan, the park (28km East of Vientiane), containing a combination of hundred status of Hindu divinities and Buddha. We drive pass villages on the bank of Mekong through beautiful views of vegetable garden, tobacco plantation ... etc. It’s nice makes photo stops and see rural life of local people. We also have a nice view of the Mekong Friendship Bridge as the border between Laos and Thailand. Return to Vientiane town and continue to visit Ban Nongbuathongthe hand weaving Village. Take a walk on Mekong Riverside before transfer back to hotel in Vientiane. Overnight in Vientiane.

Day 10: Vientiane – Xiengkoang (B)

Breakfast at hotel, free at leisure until your short afternoon flight to Xiengkhouang QV401 13.20-13.50 Xiengkhouang was devastated by American bombing between 1964 and 1973. Upon arrival, we transfer out to visit the Plain of Jars, an impressive archaeological site where hundreds of large stone jars are littered all over the plateau. We also have time, this afternoon seeing the old capital of Muang Khoun Province and the nearby villages, home to the Hmong hill tribe and Tai Dam people. They have an interesting local culture and a colorful history. Overnight in Xiengkhoung.

Day 11: Xiengkhoang – Drive To Luang Prabang (B)

Early morning, we visit Central Market of Phonsavanh to watch different Hill Tribes to barter and exchange merchandises. Then heading out the this small town to Luang Prabang 306 Km/ 6-7 hrs drive, on the way, we drop off and see a site more than 200 years old Buddha images in Thampra and varied Hmong and varied hill tribe minority villages along the road. They are nice, friendly and welcome you to visit. After a photo stop, we continue driving up hill, enjoying mountain splendid natural scenery, forest and landscape. After a tea or coffee break at Sala Phoukhoun, where the T-junction of bordering meets Vientiane-Xiengkhouang-Luang Prabang. The journey will take us over mountainous region to Luang Prabang. The tranquility and charm of this town with its splendid natural scenery and cultural sights make it one of the most delightful places to visit in Laos. Arrive in Luang Prabang, check in hotel and leisure time to relax. Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Day 12: Luang Prabang City Tour (B)

Luang Prabang, the ancient first capital of Lane Xang kingdom, the center of religious life in Laos and today the World Heritage City. Today, we will visit the most cultural highlights of the town with the visit to Wat Visoun, the 16th century temple served as a small museum for religious artifacts; Wat Aham,the early 19th century temple, whose two guardian figures at the foot of the steps which represent two characters from the Ramayana - Hanuman, the Monkey God and a fierce Yaksa; Wat Xiengthong, the 16th century temple which, more than any temples in Luang Prabang, epitomizes all the elegance and grace of Luang Prabang architecture; Climb up Phousi Hill, the 328 steps leads to the summit of Phousi hill that dominates the sky-line of Luang Prabang overlooking the finest panoramic view in the whole Luang Prabang. From there, we explore Street Night Bazaar, where you can find the lovely collection and handmade textile by local and hill tribe people surrounding Luang Prabang. Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Day 13: Luang Prabang – Elephant Riding & Trekking (B/L)

Depart from Luang Prabang in the morning; we first drive uphill toward the northeast of Luang Prabang to Ban Pha Nom, a silk waving village. We continue to Noon Rapid to visit the tomb of the 19th century French explorer Henri Mouhot; the first European to rediscover Angkor Wat and to visit the Royal Kingdom of Luang Prabang. We then drive a bit further to Ban Noon for 1 ½ hour elephant ride.

Afternoon, our trek starts from Ban Suan of Hmong and Khmu ethnic minorities. After 2 hours trekking, we arrive to Tad Sae Waterfall. From here we take a fishing boat upstream to Ban Ann Savan for a transfer back to Luang Prabang. Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Day 14: Luang Prabang – Kayaking (B/L)

Kayaking starts in the Khmu village of Ban Houayleuang, 1 and half hour drive north of Luang Prabang. After an introduction to paddling and the basics of kayaking, we will encounter up to 5 easy rapids in the first hour.

Along the way, the village of Ban Sibounhom is visited. This Khmu village on the eastern riverbank is one of the few remaining without electricity and direct road access (route 13).A picnic lunch is prepared on a white sandbank set in beautiful scenery. After a relaxing break and a swim, the afternoon is spent paddling in a calmer section of the Nam Ou. There's plenty of time to watch the villagers fishing and harvesting river weed in and along the Nam Ou. The day of kayaking ends by the bridge of route 13, near the village of Ban Somsanouk or Had Kham, the Lowland village. Transfer back to Luang Prabang. Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Day 15: Cycling In Luang Prabang (B/L)

Today we cycle through Luang Prabang, onwards to Ban Phanom, a weaving village at the Khan River, and then turn to the Henri Mohot tomb. We continue to Ban Pick Noi village of the Youane ethnic minority and cross the Nam Khan River with a fishing boat to Ban Pick Nyai village of the Youane & Leu ethnic minorities. The cruise passes some rural villages and rice fields to Ban Kokvan village of the Khmu ethnic minority, then makes headway to a Hmong village, Ban Bohae. Finally, we tailgate one and half hours back to Luang Prabang. On this return journey we will pass by Ban Xang Hai, where Lao whisky is produced, and Ban Xang Khong, a Sa paper making village. Return to Luang Prabang in the afternoon. Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Day 16: Leisure Day In Luan Prabang (B)

Leisure day in Luang Prabang to relax or use the spa service in the hotel. Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Day 17: Luang Prabang – Departure (B)

Leisure time until the transfer to the airport for the departure flight. Say goodbye to Luang Prabang and Laos.

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Trip Inclusion

Accommodation with daily breakfast bases on double/twin share
Meals as indicated in the itinerary (B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner)
Transportation by private vehicle with A/C
2 internal flights: Siem Reap – Vientiane, Vientiane – Xiengkhoang (Economy class)
Boat trips, biking, kayaking, trekking as mentioned in the program
Private local tour guides
All entrance fees and permits where applicable

Trip Exclusions

Meals that not mentioned in the program
Travel insurance
Cambodia visa and Laos visa
International flight and departure tax
Tipping, drinks and other personal expenses

Accommodation Categories

Standard:
Standard accommodation equates to a Western 3-star standard, always featuring en-suite rooms and usually a restaurant. Sometimes these are a good affordable choice in cities where accommodation is very expensive, but where being centrally located is a prime consideration.

Superior:
Superior accommodation equates to a Western 4-star standard, featuring en-suite rooms and usually a restaurant and often a swimming pool and/or a fitness centre. This is the 'classic' hotel standard we use on most of our group based tours.

Deluxe:
Deluxe accommodation equates to a Western 5-star standard, usually featuring spacious, en-suite rooms, a restaurant, swimming pool and fitness centre and an array of amenities, excellent service and customer care. India and Southeast Asia have a fabulous array of top notch 5-star properties.

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Peter and Helen Preston
5.0 - Excellent
Dear Mr Do Ha,Our best wishes to you...we have now been back in South Africa for just a week following our wonderful month in Laos and Cambodia with your company.Everything went very well indeed and we had the benefit of excellent guides and drivers in both countries. The benefits, for us, of being virtually independent with no other fellow tourists’ ..More
Dear Mr Do Ha,
Our best wishes to you...we have now been back in South Africa for just a week following our wonderful month in Laos and Cambodia with your company.
Everything went very well indeed and we had the benefit of excellent guides and drivers in both countries. The benefits, for us, of being virtually independent with no other fellow tourists’ preferences and opinions to compromise with, was felt time and time again. We could stop when and where we wished and make on the spot amendments to the itinerary as we, and the guide, felt appropriate.
Following our long discussions last year as to the basic itinerary and what we wanted to see and do we felt that our travels and timetable were finalised perfectly, with one or two observations and amendments which we have already spoken to the tour companies in Vientiane and Cambodia about. Perhaps they have already spoken to you about some necessary updating and amendments to the, sometimes out dated, itinerary we chose...for example....
Your choice of small hotels happily met our needs in most cases and specific mention must be made of the Pavilion d’Orient in Siem Riep which we gave an “outstanding” grade in all categories. We travel a lot around the world and that hotel is definitely in our top 5 for quality of accommodation, ambience, friendliness and quiet excellence in service.
Again, many thanks for helping us organise a wonderful and memorable tour and we have already recommended your services to others planning to visit your part of the world.
Peter and Helen Preston
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