Cambodia and Laos Discovery 12 Days / 11 Nights

Upon arrival at Siem Reap International Airport, you’ll be welcomed and transferred to your hotel for check-in. The remainder of the day is yours to relax and prepare for the journey ahead.

Begin your day before dawn to witness the breathtaking sunrise at Angkor Wat. Spend the morning exploring this majestic monument—Cambodia’s most iconic temple—before continuing to the ancient walled city of Angkor Thom. Highlights include the enigmatic faces of the Bayon Temple, the Terrace of Elephants, and the Baphuon. In the afternoon, wander through the tree-strangled ruins of Ta Prohm, left as it was found in the jungle. Conclude your day with a peaceful gondola ride on the moat of Angkor Thom as the sun sets over Prasat Chrung. Sip a cool drink and enjoy light canapés as the golden hour illuminates the ruins.

Embark on an off-the-beaten-path adventure to the remote pyramid temple of Koh Ker, once the capital of the Khmer Empire under King Jayavarman IV. Dominated by the towering Prasat Thom, the site offers sweeping views and a raw, untamed beauty. Enjoy a picnic lunch en route before heading to Beng Mealea, a vast temple engulfed by jungle. This overgrown complex, reminiscent of early French explorations, invites discovery and awe. Return to Siem Reap in the late afternoon for a well-earned rest.

In the morning, cruise along Tonle Sap Lake to witness the unique lifestyle of floating fishing villages. After lunch, set out on foot through Siem Reap’s historic and spiritual heart. Visit sacred shrines such as Preah Ang Chek and Preah Ang Chorm, explore colonial-era architecture, and admire local art at FCC Angkor. Wander along the Siem Reap River, visit atmospheric temples like Wat Prum Roath and Wat Bo, and engage with monks about Buddhist life. End your walk with a taste of local street food and night market delights.

Enjoy a leisurely morning before your transfer to the airport for the short flight to Pakse in southern Laos. Upon arrival, meet your guide and continue by road to Champasak, nestled on the banks of the Mekong. Check in and relax amid peaceful surroundings.

Venture into the magical Si Phan Don, or “4000 Islands,” where the Mekong River splinters into countless islets. Explore Don Khone by boat and tuk tuk or bicycle, visiting the colonial-era railway bridge and the thunderous Liphi Waterfall. Stop at the forest temple of Oup Mong, then continue south to the awe-inspiring Khone Phapheng Falls—the largest by volume in Southeast Asia. Return to your riverside resort to unwind.

Travel to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Wat Phou, an impressive Khmer temple complex predating Angkor. Set on a hillside with panoramic views, the ruins offer a profound sense of history and sacredness. Spend the afternoon at leisure, perhaps enjoying the quiet charm of Champasak or reflecting on your journey by the river.

Set off for the fertile Bolaven Plateau, known for its cool climate and rich coffee and tea plantations. Visit minority villages like the knife-making Katu community of Houey Ten and the Alak village of Ban Bong Neua. Witness stunning waterfalls such as Tad Fan and Tadlo, and browse the lively Tha Teng ethnic market. This scenic day concludes with a return to Champasak by evening.

After a relaxing morning, transfer to Pakse Airport for your flight to the cultural capital of Laos—Luang Prabang. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel to settle in and enjoy your first evening in this charming UNESCO World Heritage town.

Rise early to witness the sacred Alms Giving Ceremony, where barefoot monks collect offerings from locals in a centuries-old tradition. After visiting the morning market, explore Luang Prabang’s spiritual and historical treasures on a half-day tour. Highlights include the National Museum, Wat Xiengthong with its elegant sweeping rooflines, Wat Visoun’s melon-shaped stupa, and the insightful Arts and Ethnology Centre. The afternoon is free for you to relax or explore at your own pace.

Drive through serene countryside to the H’mong village of Ban Long Lao before trekking through lush jungle landscapes to the majestic Kuang Si Waterfalls. Cool off with a swim in the turquoise pools and enjoy a relaxed lunch by the falls. Return to Luang Prabang in time for sunset, then join a local family for a traditional Baci blessing ceremony—an unforgettable cultural exchange—followed by home-cooked dinner and traditional Lao dance.

This morning, cruise the Mekong River to visit the mystical Pak Ou Caves, filled with thousands of Buddha statues. Stop by a local whisky village, then return to Luang Prabang with visits to traditional weaving villages along the way. Your driver will take you to the airport in good time for your departure flight. Tour ends.