Northern Laos Trekking

Once you’ve completed the necessary border procedures, we begin our overland journey toward Luang Namtha. Thanks to recent improvements, the road is now smooth and makes for a comfortable ride. Along the way, we’ll visit several ethnic hill tribe villages, including those of the Khmu and Lu communities, offering you insight into the rich cultural mosaic of the region. In the afternoon, we explore the remarkable limestone formations at Kao Rao Cave—a natural wonder worth discovering. We’ll arrive in Luang Namtha by mid-afternoon, after which the remainder of the day is yours to relax at leisure.

Today’s adventure takes us deep into the lush forests of northern Laos on a full-day jungle trek that passes through several ethnic minority villages—Khmu, Sida, and Lanten—within the protected Nam Ha Conservation Area. We begin the day by hopping into a tuk-tuk, the local form of transport, for a ride to Namdee village, home to the Lanten people. From here, we set off on foot into the primary forest. For about 2.5 hours, our local Lanten guide will lead the way, explaining the unique plant and animal life, and sharing cultural stories from his community.
Our ascent through thick, pristine jungle leads us to a mountaintop within the conservation zone, where sweeping views of the surrounding canopy await. After enjoying a packed lunch in the forest, we continue trekking for another 1.5 hours to reach the Namdee waterfall—a refreshing spot to rest and take in the natural beauty. On our return, we’ll pass through additional villages of the Sida and Khmu ethnic groups. The trek concludes around 4:00 PM.

Spend a leisurely morning enjoying the scenic surroundings of Luang Namtha. Later, we begin our journey south to Oudomxay, a mountainous town surrounded by picturesque landscapes. We’ll make several scenic stops along the way to admire the lush countryside before arriving in Oudomxay by late afternoon.

This morning begins with a stroll through Oudomxay’s lively local market, a cultural melting pot where people from surrounding hill tribes gather to trade goods. You’ll get to explore the wide variety of local produce, interact with friendly vendors, and even sample a few traditional snacks.
Our journey then continues eastward to the riverside town of Muang Khua. En route, we visit the revered Pra Xack Kham Temple, home to a 400-year-old Buddha statue believed by locals to possess supernatural powers. Upon arriving in Muang Khua, we board a private longtail boat for a scenic cruise along the Nam Ou River. The peaceful journey unfolds against a backdrop of limestone cliffs and remote villages before we reach the quaint town of Muang Ngoi in the early evening.

After breakfast, we begin a half-day trek to Ban Houay Boor, a remote village inhabited by Khmu and T’ai Deng ethnic groups. Our path leads us through beautiful countryside and gentle hills. We stop for lunch at a local villager’s home, offering a chance to experience authentic Lao hospitality.
Afterward, the trek continues for another two hours to the T’ai Deng village of Ban Houaisene, where we will stay overnight in a simple yet welcoming bamboo guesthouse run by the community. In the evening, take part in a traditional Baci ceremony, a spiritual ritual involving the tying of white threads around the wrist to invoke good luck and blessings. The experience is enriched by traditional music and joyful interaction with the villagers.

In the morning, we begin our trek back to Muang Ngoi, walking for about two hours through scenic rice paddies and rural landscapes. From there, we board a long-tail boat for a relaxing one-hour cruise down the Nam Ou River to the riverside town of Nong Khiaw, framed by dramatic limestone mountains.
We then continue the overland journey south to Luang Prabang, traveling along winding mountain roads that offer panoramic views of the Nam Ou River and surrounding rice fields. On the way, we make a stop at the Pak Ou Caves, a sacred site where thousands of golden Buddha images of all sizes and shapes have been placed by pilgrims over the centuries. We arrive in Luang Prabang by late afternoon. This UNESCO-listed city is famed for its blend of ancient temples, French colonial architecture, and serene mountain setting.

Rise early to witness one of Laos’ most enduring traditions: the daily alms-giving ceremony, where barefoot saffron-robed monks silently collect offerings from local residents and respectful visitors. This spiritual procession is a deeply symbolic and humbling experience, unique to Laos.
Following this, explore Luang Prabang’s morning market, a bustling display of fresh produce, regional specialties, and home-cooked treats—perfect for tasting a few local snacks. After returning to the hotel for breakfast, we begin our half-day cultural exploration. Visit the Royal Palace Museum, once home to the royal family and now a gallery of historical artifacts.
Continue to Wat Xiengthong, the city’s most iconic temple, with its graceful, sweeping roofs and intricate gold carvings. Next is Wat Visoun, recognized for its unusual stupa shaped like a watermelon. We end the morning at the Arts and Ethnology Centre, an informative and well-curated museum that offers deeper insight into the customs and attire of Laos’ many ethnic communities.

Today we head out on a countryside excursion, venturing south of Luang Prabang over scenic hilly roads. Along the way, we visit a traditional silk weaving village, where you’ll have the opportunity to observe skilled artisans at work in their homes, spinning, dyeing, and weaving intricate patterns by hand.
Next, we explore Ban Thinkeo, a Hmong village where locals share stories about their daily lives, herbal medicine traditions, and ancestral customs. Our journey continues to the stunning Kuang Si Waterfalls, a breathtaking three-tiered cascade that drops over 60 meters into turquoise pools below. You’ll have time to wander the surrounding trails, swim in the refreshing waters, or simply relax amid this serene natural setting. A picnic lunch is included before we return to town for a leisurely afternoon.

Enjoy a relaxing morning at your hotel with free time to make the most of the peaceful atmosphere or take a last stroll through the old town. At the appropriate time, we’ll transfer you to the airport for your onward flight.