Classic option from US$2680* PP
Trip code: LCE-C-14 |
Group size: Max 16, Avg 12
START Chiang Rai, Pakbeng, Mekong River Cruise, Luang Prabang, Vientiane, Phnom Penh, Tonle Sap Lake, Kampong Thom, Temples of Angkor, Siem Reap FINISH
Imagine the intrigue of floating by slow boat down the Mekong River to a remote riverside lodge in Laos. So your journey begins, with many more unique experiences to come. Be enlightened in Luang Prabang chatting with local monks and learn about the work being done to support local communities at the COPE and ChildSafe Centers. Your travels lead you through countryside of unbelievable beauty to the unequalled sight of dawn’s first light falling upon the incredible temples of Angkor.
Availability
800 342 1957
2013
DAYS 1-2: CHIANG RAI & PAKBENG
On arrival in Chiang Rai, transfer to your hotel and join your group and tour leader for a welcome briefing. Cross the border into Laos for a tranquil cruise along the upper Mekong on your private wooden barge. Soak up the relaxing atmosphere on the way to a rustic riverside lodge.
Hotels: Laluna Hotel & Resort, Phetsokxai
DAYS 3-5: LUANG PRABANG
Continue floating down the Mekong River, stopping to admire the Buddha effigies at Pak Ou Caves, on the way to the captivating town of Luang Prabang. Discover ornate monasteries and museums, learn to cook Lao-style, visit the beautiful Kuang Si Falls and get to know the locals with a game of petanque. Be sure to rise early to witness hundreds of orange-robed monks lining the town’s streets in the absorbing alms collection ritual.
Hotel: Sala Prabang (Lodge)
DAYS 6-7: VIENTIANE
Fly to the serene riverside capital and explore Wat Pha That Luang, Wat Sisaket and the iconic Patuxai Monument. Visit a local home for a traditional Baci ceremony. At the interactive COPE center, gain a valuable insight into the problems UXOs, unexploded bombs, have caused in this peaceful land and what this fantastic organization is doing to help. Enjoy free time to uncover the city and relax with a drink at an outdoor cafe watching the sun set over neighboring Thailand.
Hotel: Mercure Vientiane
DAYS 8-9: PHNOM PENH
Fly to Phnom Penh for a fun cyclo tour and then and reflect on Cambodia’s tragic past with visits to the Tuol Sleng Museum and Killing Fields, and admire the artistry of the Khmer empire at the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and National Museum. Learn about the plight of local street children at the ChildSafe Center. In your free time, stroll along the riverfront with the locals.
Hotel: Sunway Hotel
DAY 10: KAMPONG THOM
A drive through the Cambodian countryside passes farmers driving oxen with an interesting stop at a silver village. In the town of Skuon, you may like to join the Khmers and sample the local delicacy - fried spider, before you discover the pre-Angkorian ruins of Sambour Prei Kuk.
Hotel: Sambor Village Hotel
DAYS 11-14: SIEM REAP
Glide across a remote section of Tonle Sap Lake by boat before heading to Siem Reap, your base for exploring the temples of Angkor. Walk through the jungle in darkness to come upon the sun rising over the glorious temples at Angkor, a vision you’ll never forget, then venture off the tourist trail to remote Boeng Mealea and immerse yourself in the atmospheric ruins of the tree-covered Ta Prohm. On your last day, enjoy free time until your departure transfer.
Hotel: Royal Bay Inn Angkor Resort
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