JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser. For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser.
Australian Wilderness & Outback Journeys
Private and luxury journeys to The Kimberley, Kakadu, Arnhem Land, Red Centre, Flinders Ranges, Lake Eyre...
Learn more
Greatest Rail Journeys in Australia
A luxury holiday of a life time on one of the great Australian rail journeys. Rail & Sail, Reef & Rail, Outback & Rail...
Go beyond the typical tourist track and see the real Laos up close and personal on this 7 day leisurely adventure, where time slows to the gentle rhythm of the Mekong. Bike, hike, and kayak through a realm of dramatic karst mountains, serene rivers, and vibrant hill-tribe villages steeped in folklore. Journey from the sacred rituals of Luang Prabang to the riverine wonders of Vang Vieng and Nam Song River. An intimate passage into the soul of the real Laos, pedal along its gentle roads, wander its off-the-beaten-track paths and experience the leisurely pace of life along the Mekong for a truly authentic adventure.
Your thrilling adventure begins in Vientiane. Transfer to Bolikham, hike to Tad Xay and Pha Xay before returning to Vientiane. Journey to Vang Vieng and explore caves, ...
Your thrilling adventure begins in Vientiane. Transfer to Bolikham, hike to Tad Xay and Pha Xay before returning to Vientiane. Journey to Vang Vieng and explore caves, and the Blue Lagoon. Hike the Pha Namxay Cliff and kayak into the Nam Song River. Visit the Organic Farm and stop by Tham None. Board the train from Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang and bike to Wat Xieng Thong and then to Wat Mai before coasting over to the Royal Palace. Cycle along the Mekong’s edge to Pak Ou. Explore the Pak Ou Caves before cruising down the Mekong. Glide back into Luang Prabang. Witness a Luang Prabang tradition and cruise to Kuang Si Falls. Swing by a workshop where they keep alive the tradition of ‘sa paper’ making, and then enjoy the Lao Lao. Float down the Mekong to a pottery village, then cross to Ock Pop Tok. We enjoy a final feast in Luang Prabang, where your trip ends.
This package includes 6 nights accommodation in 4 star hotels on a twin share basis, each handpicked for its unique location, design, taste, and commitment to cleanliness. With all specified meals, transfers, and your bicycle and helmet included, you can ride in absolute comfort, guided by our experienced team of local professionals.
Venture beyond the ordinary and lose yourself in the true soul of Laos, where time ebbs and flows with the gentle rhythm of the Mekong. Embark on an intimate journey by bike, foot, and kayak through a realm of dramatic karst mountains and vibrant villages steeped in folklore, crafting an adventure that is authentically and unforgettably yours.
Dates or itinerary don't fit? We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys to Red Centre. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.
This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points.
More Info
Read Less
ONE BIKING OPTIONLevel 1, Approx. 21 km (13 miles), 1-2 hours biking
ONE HIKING OPTIONLevel 1, Approx. 9 km (5 miles), 1-2 hours biking
Sabaidee! Kick off the morning with a bright and early pick-up and a few easy introductions: your tour leader (equal parts adventure guru, cultural translator, and snack wrangler) and the travelers you’ll be riding, hiking, and high-fiving your way through Laos with.
We ease into the adventure with a road trip out of Vientiane, swapping city buzz for countryside calm as we head to Bolikham. First stop: Wat Pha Bath Phosan, a quiet temple said to hold Buddha’s footprint. (Size 250 sandals, in case you’re wondering.) We stretch our legs, take a breath, and soak in the stillness before switching gears. Bikes out, helmets on, we’re cycling into the countryside. The ride takes us to the edge of Phou Khao Khouay National Park, where jungle meets farmland, and the last bar of cell signal says goodbye.
On our arrival at the village, the local weavers welcome us with smiles (and probably a few chuckles at our technique) as we try our hand at bamboo basket weaving. Next, we put on our walking shoes and head into the jungle — we hike under soaring trees and over tangled roots until we reach the double waterfall jackpot: Tad Xay and Pha Xay. Cue a dreamy picnic beside the falls, where you can let the carbs settle before jumping in for a swim.
After drying off, we hop back in the van for the return trip to Vientiane and to our accommodation, the Salana Boutique Hotel. Our 4-star hotel seamlessly combines modern elegance with the charm of Laos and is located within walking distance of the Mekong River and the city’s famous night market. Unwind with a massage or simply relax with a drink in the bar. We plan to have a sumptuous dinner. Expect local flavours, and maybe treat yourself to a glass or two of Beer Lao, as you get to know your fellow travelers.
Approx 10 km (6 miles),1-2 hours biking
This morning, take a seat on the new Lao-China Railway, zipping north from Vientiane to Vang Vieng in just about an hour. It’s fast, smooth, and comes with some seriously scenic window views; cue misty mountains, patchwork fields, and tiny villages that flash by in a blink.
After arriving in Vang Vieng, begin your exploration by taking out the bikes. Spend your visit exploring this leisurely town, famed for its limestone karsts, secret caves, and neon-blue swimming holes, all by bike. The first stop for the day is the caves: gigantic and mysterious, with winding corridors full of stalagmites and stalactites. Equipped with a torch, delve deep into these natural time capsules carved out over millions of years. Next, return to the sunshine and take advantage of the Blue Lagoon to cool off. Here, swim, float, cannonball, or simply marvel at the view before trying a short climb for a full scenic panorama of the karst cliffs and river bends.
In the evening, return to your home for the next two nights: the riverfront 4-star Amari Vang Vieng. This modern lodging provides picturesque views of the Nam Song River and the neighboring karst mountains. Unwind in the picturesque pool, a perfect time to cool off after a day of adventure.
Tonight, we cap off the day with a sumptuous, laid-back group dinner at a local gem in town.
Grab your sunscreen and put away your bike for now. Today, we put on our hiking boots and head for the hills! First up: Pha Namxay Cliff, a crowd favourite and for good reason. It’s a 500 m (1,640 ft) climb straight into the clouds, with views that stop you in your tracks.
After catching our breath, we prepare to go kayaking. Gear up with a quick paddle 101 and safety briefing, then push off into the lazy Nam Song River. We stop at Tham Xang, also known as the Elephant Cave, a dramatic, open-mouthed cavern shaped like, well, an elephant. We traverse its theater-like interior as our local tour leader brings its myths and legends to life. For lunch, we savor hearty Lao fare amid shady views before gliding onward to the Organic Farm, known for its homemade mulberry tea, fruit wines, and peaceful atmosphere.
Our final cave of the day is the mighty Tham None (Sleeping Cave), one of the largest in the area, and once a bomb shelter during the Second Indochina War. These days, it’s home to bats, fascinating folklore, and the mysterious Magic Stone of Vang Vieng. Is it real? Is it lucky? Our tour leader spills all the juicy backstories. One last paddle downstream, and we roll back into Vang Vieng just as the sun dips behind the karsts. This is the good life.
Approx. 21 km (13 miles), 1-2 hours biking
We’re dedicating today to royal history. We board the train from Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang, a dreamy little city where ancient temples meet fresh baguettes (a remnant of French colonial times). Arriving here feels like stepping into a sepia-toned postcard. It’s elegant and unhurried. They don’t call it “Laos: please don’t rush” for nothing.
Helmets on, we head for Wat Xieng Thong, the grand, golden heart of Lao Buddhism. After soaking up its shimmering details and royal history, we pedal on to Wat Mai, where gold leaf glistens in the sun. Then, we coast over to the Royal Palace, right smack in the middle of town. Once home to the king until 1946 (when the monarchy clocked out), it’s now the National Museum. If you need a pick-me-up, grab a Lao-style coffee: thick, sweet, and often served with condensed milk. You’ll appreciate the caffeine boost for the climb up Mount Phousi, all 328 steps of it. The views at the top are stunning and worth the panting to get there.
Back at the ground level, we drop by the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre, a gem of a museum that dives into Laos’ many ethnic minority groups, from Hmong to Khmu, buzzing on culture, we swing by Heuanchan Heritage House, a traditional wooden home where creaky floorboards take you back to an even quieter time in Laos, and end the day at Le Bel Air, Luang Prabang.
Our home for the rest of the trip, the Le Bel Air resort, is a 4-star accommodation overlooking the Nam Khan River, with stunning French colonial aesthetics. It has a signature restaurant, Indochine by The River, which tastily fuses authentic Laotian flavors with Thai, Chinese, and European styles, featuring dishes such as Or Lam (local beef stew with herbs), tenderloin steak, and Green Curry. There are other excellent nearby restaurants in the event that we decide to dine outside that serve delectable dishes.
Approx. 30 km (19 miles), 2-3 hours biking
We’re back on our bikes today, cycling out of the city and along the Mekong’s edge. This is why we believe in slow travel! Fishermen cast their nets, kids wave from the banks, and the scent of freshly cooked rice wafts through the air. We trace the river north through sleepy villages until we arrive at Pak Ou, where the Nam Ou and Mekong Rivers meet in full cinematic glory. Hungry? Our tour leader knows just the spot for lunch with a view — gaze out at the river confluence, limestone cliffs soaring dramatically out of the water, and jungle hugging the banks.
Hop aboard a longtail boat as we drift down to explore the sacred Pak Ou Caves, a pair of limestone sanctuaries tucked into the cliffs and packed with hundreds of Buddha statues left by pilgrims over centuries. Then it’s back on our longtail boat for a 25 km (16 mi) cruise down the Mekong, where you’ll completely settle into the vibe. Jungle cliffs, bobbing fishing boats, warm breezes, and that mellow hum of river life. It takes about 90 minutes. We glide back into Luang Prabang like the river royalty we now are, then pedal the short hop back to Le Bel Air Resort, feeling just the right kind of sun-kissed and temple-blissed.
Approx 30 km (19 miles), 2-3 hours biking
Rise and shine! We begin the day with a soul-stirring tradition that’s been lighting up Luang Prabang’s mornings for over 600 years. As the sun peeks over the rooftops, around 200 monks in vibrant saffron robes walk the hushed streets, collecting alms from mindful local visitors. It’s serene, sacred, and surprisingly grounding.
We head back to the hotel for a well-earned breakfast and possibly a double-shot of the local brew. Then it wheels down and pedals up as we cruise a ribbon that hugs the river, past banana trees, backyard farms, and kids who still find magic in a muddy football. What’s waiting on the other side is a Laos showstopper: Kuang Si Falls, a tiered cascade of milky blue pools spilling through the jungle. However, this isn’t a look-don’t-touch moment. Jump in. Swim. Float. Become one with the waterfall.
Your tour leader gets lunch sorted, likely something grilled, riverside, and fresh from the Mekong. When it’s time to head back, you’ve got options: cycle the return route if you’re feeling like some post-lunch activity, or kick back in the air-conditioned van.
Tonight, we gather for our last group dinner at a local joint. Whether you can toast with a beer or a mocktail, this adventure wraps up with full hearts and happily tired legs.
Today, our Laos chapter closes, but don’t get sentimental just yet. We’ve got a few more local secrets to uncover before hanging up the helmets. We hop on our bikes and spin through Luang Prabang, stopping at a bustling local fresh food market. This is the real deal of daily life, no filters, no fluff, just the smells, sights, and the sizzle of Laos in full color.
Next, we swing by a workshop where artisans are keeping alive the traditional ‘sa paper’ making — that’s paper made from mulberry bark, not magic, though it feels close, then, things get a little livelier with a peek into the distillation of Lao Lao, the infamous local rice whisky that has the kick of small buffalo and the afterglow to prove it. It’s 40% alcohol, and there will be samples. Buzzing from culture (and maybe the Lao Lao), we hop on a boat and float down the Mekong to a pottery village, then cross to Ock Pop Tok, a stunning silk-weaving collective where ancient techniques meet modern empowerment.
We cap it all off with a leisurely group lunch at a favourite local spot. One final feast. One last laugh. A bear hug (or three) for your helpful tour leader. Sticky rice in your soul, mountain mist in your dreams, and a crew of fellow travelers who now feel like old friends. Laos might be staying here, but a little piece of it is coming with you.
NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.
- The departure point is Vientiane. Meet your leaders at 8.00 a.m at Salana Boutique Hotel, Street, Chao Anou Road, Vientiane, Laos
- The finish point is Luang Prabang. Your tour ends at 4.30 p.m at Le Bel Air Resort, 1 Old Bridge, Ban Muang Nga, pb 120, Luang Prabang
- The closest airport to Vientiane, the capital of Laos, is Wattay International Airport (VTE). It is located just about 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) west of the city center, making it very convenient for travelers heading to or from Vientiane.
Laos experiences a tropical monsoon climate characterised by distinct temperature variations throughout the year. During the cool-dry period from November to February, the country maintains comfortable averages between 15°C and 25°C, though the elevated northern regions can experience significantly cooler nights. As the seasons transition into the hot-dry period from March to May, temperatures rise sharply, frequently exceeding 35°C and occasionally reaching 40°C in the central and southern lowlands. When the wet season arrives between May and October, the intense heat slightly recedes to average daily highs around 30°C, maintaining persistent warmth accompanied by high humidity levels across the region.
Difficulty Level: Leisurely pace, shorter rides, mostly flat roads. In Laos, we’ll mostly cycle along smaller roads and quiet country routes. Over eight days, we’ll cover a relaxed 83 mi (133 km) — with daily rides ranging from a breezy 6 mi (10 km) to a scenic 19 mi (30 km) spin. Elevation gains stay kind, topping out around 1,129 ft (344 m). The pace is leisurely, and the roads are mostly gentle with plenty of breaks along the way.
This tour is rated 1 out of 5.
Level 1: This tour is Riding Level 1, which means you can expect to cycle an average of 15 mi (24 km) per day — and usually no more than around 25 mi (40 km) — with plenty of breaks along the way. The pace is leisurely, and the roads are mostly flat.
Level 2: This tour is Riding Level 2, which means you can expect to cycle an average of 25 mi (40 km) per day — and usually no more than around 35 mi (56 km) — with regular snack stops and photo breaks along the way. Roads are mostly flat, with occasional short climbs.
Level 3: This tour is Riding Level 3, which means you can expect to cycle an average of 30 mi (48 km) per day — and usually no more than around 45 mi (72 km) — with occasional breaks to soak up the sights. The terrain is more varied, with some uphill climbs, so you’ll need to be generally fit if you’re on a standard bike.
Level 4: This tour is Riding Level 4, which means you can expect to cycle an average of 40 mi (64 km) per day — and usually no more than 55 mi (88 km) — with occasional breaks to recharge. Expect some longer stretches and demanding uphill climbs (up to 5000 ft (1,524 m) a day), meaning you’ll need a good level of fitness if you’re on a standard bike.
Level 5: This tour is Riding Level 5, which means you can expect to cycle at least 40 mi (64 km) per day, and sometimes up to 60 mi (97 km) in a day. Expect long stretches and more demanding uphill climbs in mountainous areas, with occasional breaks to admire the view. On a standard bike, you’ll need to be up for a challenge!
Bikes: On this tour, you’ll be riding a Merida Big Nine 60 mountain bike or Kaze Behemoth e-bike.
Helmet: Don't worry about squeezing your helmet into your suitcase. We've got clean, disinfected helmets waiting with your bike.
Handlebar bag: To carry all your essentials.
E-Bikes: are available to boost your pedal power at an additional cost.
Adventures App: Get pre-trip tips, routes, chat support, and much more. Our app is your trusty sidekick, ensuring you're never lost (unless it's intentional).
Accommodation: Our accommodations are the ultimate havens. Beds that feel like sinking into whipped cream, spaces to chill and s-t-r-e-t-c-h out those limbs, and the promise of a dip or soak in most locations to wash away the day. In cities, expect charming 3-4 star properties. Off the beaten path, we select the best places available — cleanliness is non-negotiable, and you'll always have the comfort of air conditioning and a private bathroom.
Food: If you plan your vacations around food, then you’ll be happy to hear that we’re basically food tours on bikes (not as messy as it sounds). In Laos, the food is humble, hearty, and packed with bold, punchy flavors. Spoon up coconut curries, crunch into lemongrass-stuffed chicken, and don’t forget the chilli dip (jeow) that comes with a warning and a smile. Wash it all down with an ice-cold Beer Lao or a strong Lao coffee, sweetened with condensed milk and local charm — and you’ve got yourself a feast that hits the soul. Got any dietary requirements? Let us know, and we’ll make sure your taste buds are as happy as your wheels!
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.Payment DetailAll pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 60 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 60 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.Single SupplementAll accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.General Cancellation Policies- Outside of 60 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee- Within 60 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurancePlease Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.LiabilityThe participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.Child PolicyPlease consult travel consultant on age limit.Changes to ItinerariesLocal conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.Changes in PricesWhile we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age LimitsYou need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.Cancellation by The Tour OperatorThe tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a tour with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the tour has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any tour up to 60 days prior to departure if the minimum number requirement is unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the tour or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.Force Majeure'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.EvacuationsIn rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.Travel InsuranceIn view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.