Thailand and Laos adventure holiday
Late availability on these dates: 24 Dec, 27 Dec, 31 Dec, 03 Jan, 10 Jan, 12 Jan, 14 Jan, 21 Jan, 24 Jan, 28 Jan, 31 Jan, 02 Feb, 04 Feb, 11 Feb, 16 Feb, 18 Feb, 21 Feb, 23 Feb, 04 Mar, 18 Mar
Description of Thailand and Laos adventure holiday
Travel with a small group by boat, bus and train, from Bangkok to Vientiane experiencing beautiful northern Thailand and the laidback river lifestyle of Laos. This 13-day adventure starts in Bangkok, where you can cruise down the Chao Phraya River to explore the famous ‘khlongs’ (canals) and visit Wat Pho temple before hopping on the sleeper train to Chiang Mai. Then get to know this beautiful city, nicknamed the ‘Rose of the North’, on a bicycle tour, wander the night bazaar or head up the mountain to the stunning temple complex, Doi Suthep.
In Laos, take a lazy two-day journey down the mighty Mekong River to the former royal capital of Laos, Luang Prabang. This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts red-roofed temples and French-Indochinese architecture and each morning, saffron-robed monks walk its ancient streets to collect alms. Head into the hills to experience Vang Vieng, a riverside town surrounded by towering limestone karsts, where you can cycle, visit caves or stroll the local markets before ending your trip in the country's capital, Vientiane. Hardly touched by modernisation, its faded colonial mansions, tree-lined boulevards and old temples create an atmosphere of timelessness – a relaxing full-stop to this fascinating trip.
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1 Reviews of Thailand and Laos adventure holiday
Reviewed on 24 Nov 2025 by Adrian Pickett
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Two days travelling down the Mekong river on a slow boat and walking with elephants in the jungle.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Allow time to spend a couple of days in Bangkok before or after your trip.
If you get the time visit the UXO museum in Luang Prabang to understand the ongoing impact of cluster bombs still have on everyday life on Laos.
If you want to find out more about the history of Laos the Loa Peoples Army history museum in Vientiane is worth a visit. The Buddha park in Vientiane is fun.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Definitely. Particularly in Laos where the country is less developed and tourism is important for the communities. We felt the to the elephant sanctuary supports the mission to rebuild the elephant population in Laos.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Another great trip with this partner.
Responsible Travel
Planet
Near to Luang Prabang, at Kuang Si Falls, you can visit Phet, an orphaned and rare Indo-Chinese tiger. Phet was the only survivor of three cubs rescued by locals, after their parents were killed by poachers. Her situation has brought the plight of endangered species to the attention of local people and travellers and through us, funds have been raised for a permanent enclosure for her. You can visit Phet and she particularly appreciates travellers taking her meat, but she has grown fast and we don't recommend hand feeding, literally!People
Traversing three countries and many different communities it is important for travellers to learn as much as possible in advance about the many cultural differences so that we can travel respecting these differences and minimising any negative impacts. Your group leader and the local guides we use along the way will help to break down barriers in your interactions with local people. A visit to the Tribal Museum in Chiang Mai is recommended to learn more of the ways of the communities we will encounter along the MekongOur history of 'giving back to the community' along the route of this trip has included several initiatives from our leaders, particularly with orphanages and support towards equipment and the food fund at the Luang Prabang hospital. People who cannot afford to feed their sick family members in the hospital are fed through this fund. Check with your group leader as to our latest project support.
In Hanoi we can recommend breakfast or a snack at KOTO, a restaurant and vocational training centre for former street kids, established by ex-tour leader, Jimmy Pham. At the end of our journey travellers may donate any unwanted clothing, medicines and bandages, which are distributed to appropriate local charities.
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