The Golden Triangle & The Mekong River Adventure 14 Days / 13 Nights

The lands around the forest-crowned mountains at the confluence of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos have long been known as the Golden Triangle. Once home to insurgent armies and opium smugglers these lands are now a safe but still exciting and incredibly atmospheric and interesting, not to mention beautiful, place to visit.

Traveling at the unhurried pace of the Mekong itself, your voyage will have you admiring traditional crafts, tasting authentic regional cuisine, and relaxing among unspoiled wild scenery. And all along the way, whether in urban centers or remote jungle outposts, you'll be treated to some of the finest luxury and boutique accommodation in Asia.

Duration: 14 days/13 nights

Tour Code: MTSD01

Price from: US $ Pax

Tour Valid: December 31th, 2014

Highlights: Bangkok - Chiang Rai - Golden Triangle - Chiang Khong - Huay Say - Pakbeng - Kamu Lodge - Luang Prabang - Xieng Khuang - Vientiane

• Day 1 - Bangkok Arrival

  Place Transport: Airplane->Car
  Meals:

  Upon your arrival in Bangkok you will be transferred to your hotel. Then you'll free time for relaxing or shopping. Overnight in Bangkok.

  Day 2 - Bangkok: Visit Grand Palace - Prasat Museum

  Place Transport: Car
  Meals: Breakfast - Lunch

  On your first morning in Bangkok you'll experience the majesty of the Grand Palace, one of Thailand's most revered historical and religious sites. Later, cross the Chao Phraya river to sample the spices and flavors of Thai cuisine at Supatra River House. In the afternoon, drive out to the Prasat Museum, for a special glimpse into a private collection of priceless Thai art and antiquities. Overnight in Bangkok.

  Day 3 - Bangkok - Ayutthaya

  Place Transport: Car->Boat
  Meals: Breakfast - Lunch

  Heading north out of Bangkok, we'll take you for a stroll through the gardens and pavilions of Bang Pa In, the unbelievable summer palace of King Chulalongkorn. From there, you'll board a traditional rice barge for a cruise up the Chao Phraya that will take you back into Thailand's regal past. After enjoying lunch on board, you'll disembark at the former Siamese capital of Ayutthaya, a city of graceful chedis and ruined temples, before returning to Bangkok by car. Overnight in Bangkok.

  Day 4 - Bangkok - Chiang Rai

  Place Transport: Airplane->Car->Boat
  Meals: Breakfast

  Leave Thailand's central plains behind, and journey north to Thailand's Golden Triangle. Upon arriving in Chiang Rai, you'll be met by your guide, and transferred to your accommodation. After settling in to the comforts of your surroundings, you'll have the opportunity to delve into the secret history of the region on a visit to the Hall of Opium. Overnight in Chiang Rai

  Day 5 - Chiang Rai

  Place Transport: Elephant
  Meals: Breakfast - Lunch

  Come face to trunk with one of Thailand's most graceful creatures as you learn how to be an elephant mahout. After mastering the necessary commands, you'll climb onto the back of an elephant for a thrilling ride that will put your new skills to the test. Once you're ready, you'll take your elephant through bamboo forests and across riverine flood plains on a trek to in search of local wildlife and breathtaking views. Overnight in Chiang Rai.

  Day 6 - Chiang Rai

  Place Transport: Car
  Meals: Breakfast - Lunch

  In the morning, you'll depart for Mae Sai, a trading town at the northern tip of Thailand that will be your entry point into Myanmar. Cross the border for a samlor ride through the village of Tachilek, where you'll enjoy lunch at a local Burmese restaurant, then admire crafts at the market. Next, enjoy the spectacular views from Doi Tung, the former home of the King of Thailand's mother, then stop at the Royal Handicraft Center to observe the production of mulberry paper, pottery, and weaving. Overnight in Chiang Rai.

  Day 7 - Golden Triangle - Chiang Khong - Huay Say - Pakbeng (Laos)

  Place Transport: Boat
  Meals: Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner

  An early wake up will see you passing through unforgettable scenery along the Mekong River as you travel to the border town of Chiang Khong. After completing the immigration formalities, you'll climb on board your boat for a journey into the jungles of Northern Laos. Before enjoying lunch on board, you'll stop at a hill-tribe settlement to wander around and observe the local lifestyle. Overnight in Pakbeng.

  Day 8 - Pakbeng - Kamu Lodge

  Place Transport: Boat
  Meals: Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner

  Take breakfast on a terrace overlooking the river, then climb back on board to continue your trip down the Mekong. At midday, you'll stop at Ban Baw, a village that offers you the chance to watch the making of traditional rice alcohol. In the afternoon you'll arrive at your lodge, a magical retreat near a Kamu village where you'll have the opportunity to engage in a variety of local customs and activities.
  Overnight at Kamu Lodge.

  Day 9 - Kamu Lodge - Luang Prabang

  Place Transport: Boat->Car
  Meals: Breakfast - Lunch

  In the morning we'll set out once again, on a riverine journey that will take you through bamboo groves and towering limestone pinnacles to the town of Luang Prabang. A stop at the Pak Ou village will allow you to step into an extraordinary cave complex that conceals thousands of Buddha statues and images. Upon arrival in Luang Prabang, you'll have the chance to freshen up in your hotel room, before we visit some of this charming town's most engaging sites, like Wat Visoun and the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre. Enjoy the views from atop Mount Phousi, then take a stroll through the evening hill tribe market.
  Overnight in Luang Prabang.

  Day 10 - Luang Prabang

  Place Transport: Car
  Meals: Breakfast - Lunch

  Waking early, you'll be witness to the most unforgettable ritual in Laos, as dozens of saffron-robed monks walk the dirt lanes to receive alms from the townspeople. After breakfast at your hotel, take in the National Museum, the Central Market, and the five-tiered Wat Mai. Later, visit the astounding Wat Xieng Thong, a gracious compound of pastel wats decorated in colored glass mosaics, and the most important Buddhist monastery in the country. Later, splash into the Khuang Xi Waterfalls, then tour a local factory where handmade paper is produced.
  Overnight in Luang Prabang.

  Day 11 - Luang Prabang - Xieng Khuang

  Place Transport: Car
  Meals: Breakfast - Lunch

  Departing from Luang Prabang, your journey today will take you to the mysterious Plain of Jars. Along the way, you'll pass through breathtaking mountainous setting as you visit Hmong villages and the Tham Pha Cave. With time permitting, you'll head out to view the jars, all of which are thousands of years old, and some of which weigh as much as 6 tons. Overnight in Xieng Khuang.

  Day 12 - Xieng Khuang

  Place Transport: Car
  Meals: Breakfast - Lunch

  Your exploration of the Plain of Jars continues with a visit to Phou Sa La Tou and Hai Hin Lad Kai, where the jars sit atop a hill surrounded by rice paddies. Continuing on, you'll visit Muang Kham to enjoy hot water springs in a subdued forest setting. Said to be infused with magical powers, the warm waters are believed to have curative properties. Overnight in Xieng Khuang.

  Day 13 - Xieng Khuang - Vientiane

  Place Transport: Car->Airplane
  Meals: Breakfast - Lunch

  After browsing at the morning market, visit Hmong Villages and ruined temples along the way on a short drive to the ancient capital of Muang Khoune. An afternoon flight will transport you to Vientiane, the capital of Laos, a relaxed city of leafy boulevards and gracious French architecture. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure, strolling along the Mekong waterfront or slipping into an inviting café.
  Overnight in Vientiane.

  Day 14 - Vientiane Depature

  Place Transport: Car->Airplane
  Meals: Breakfast

  Enjoy your final day in Vientiane with a tour of the city's most important sites, from the humble niche Buddhas of Vat Sisaket, to the venerated That Luang, to the grand arch of the Patuxai monument. Time permitting, you'll visit Carol Cassidy's famed textile studio before heading off to the airport for your departure flight.

  The Tour Inclusion:

  - 13 Nights Accommodation in deluxe twin / double room view with daily BKF.

  - Pick-ups and transfers by private air-conditioned vehicle as specified in the itinerary above.
  
  - Boat as indicated in the itinerary.
  
  - Domestic flight tickets as indicated in the itinerary.

  - The services of experienced English-speaking guides as indicated in the itinerary.

  - Where necessary, entry fees for all visits as mentioned in the program.

  - Lunches and dinners (as specified in the itinerary) in the best local restaurants, or picnics where no suitable restaurant is available.

  The Tour Exclusion:

  - Visas on arrival

  - International flight tickets and airport tax.

  - Dinners, except as specified above.

  - Drinks, gratuities and personal expenses.
  
  - Travel insurance 

  - Surcharge for peak season (if any) & other not mentioned in the above detail program.

  Additional Information

  Importance note
  - The itinerary is just a sample of our tours; we'll be pleased to design similar programs with dates and itinerary customized to your personal preferences in Tailor Made Tours section. Rates may vary frequently. Please contact us to get the best possible price based upon your travel period and specific touring needs.
  
  What to bring?
  - Sun Block, Wide brim hat, Camera + Film, Comfortable shoes, Rain gear, Warm clothes, original Passport...
  
  How to start?
  - MinMax Travel is a fully escorted tour and best-available all year round; the only thing you need to prepare in advance is the international air-ticket from/to your country.
  - If you don’t have enough time to complete visa before your departure, we will help you to obtain Thailand, Laos Visa on arrival easily (getting visa at the airport, on your arrival)

Viet Nam Tour in Colors

This tour offers the essential Vietnamese destinations for those who want to discover Vietnam- one of the most beautiful counties located in the South East Asia. All of the historical, cultural and natural "must-see" attractions are visited, including an overnight train journey, as the tour makes its way from south to north. This is an ideal trip to take in the very essence of Vietnam.

View 15 photos

Duration: 19 days/18 nights

Tour Code: MVAT04

Price from: US $0 Pax

Tour Valid: December 31th, 2014

Highlights: Ho Chi Minh – Cu Chi Tunnels – Mekong Delta – Hoi An – Hue – Ha Noi –Mai Chau – Son La – Dien Bien – Muong Lay – Sa Pa – Ha Long.

• Day 1 - Ho Chi Minh Arrival

  Place Transport: Airplane->Car
  Meals: Dinner

  Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat airport, you will be welcomed by our private Vietnam tour guide and driver and transfer you to hotel for check in. Ho Chi Minh is the most exciting city of Vietnam and a mecca of commerce. It also is a city with a chequered history and a rich culture. Its pagodas, museums, public buildings, parks and boulevards make it one of the most delightful Vietnam Tours and cities to visit in Vietnam. Free time at leisure. Stay overnight in Ho Chi Minh

  Day 2 - Ho Chi Minh - Cu Chi Tunnels

  Place Transport: Car
  Meals: Breakfast - Lunch

  After breakfast, enjoy a morning drive through typical southern Vietnamese countryside to Tay Ninh Province in the west of Vietnam. At Tay Ninh, visit the incredible Cao Dai Great Temple with architecture that could have come straight from a Walt Disney fantasy and where all the major faiths of the world blend together in a unique religious cocktail. In the afternoon, visit the famous Cu Chi Tunnels- an underground tunnel network constructed by Vietnamese resistance fighters during the long struggle for independence where you will understand more about the Vietnam War or American War, a must see Vietnam Tour for any tourists to learn about Vietnam both in the past and in the present. Stay overnight in Ho chi Minh.

  Day 3 - Ho Chi Minh - Can Tho (Mekong Delta)

  Place Transport: Car->Boat
  Meals: Breakfast - Lunch

  Today, we will start our exploration of the Mekong Delta, a major rice producing area. This is considered as one of the classic rivers of the world. The Mekong splits into nine major arteries. A vast network of rivers and waterways with thousands of ships of all sizes plowing the waters gives the Mekong Delta a very special atmosphere and no can deny that it is one of the most favorite destinations for Vietnam Tours. On arrival, we will make a boat trip to the Cai Be floating Market, visit villages and meet the people of the Mekong Delta. Continue your boat trip to An Binh Island for lunch in a local family and bike trip in the afternoon. Continue to Can Tho – the heart of Mekong Delta in Vietnam. Check in on your arrival, free at leisure and stay overnight in Can Tho.

  Day 4 - Can Tho - Ho Chi Minh - Fly to Hoi An

  Place Transport: Boat->Car->Airplane
  Meals: Breakfast - Lunch

  In the morning, we make the boat cruise to see the Cai Rang floating market (the nicest one with heaps of rowing boats). Truly, it is a spotlight of your Vietnam Tours where you will enjoy the beautiful scenery and see the daily activities of the locals who live along the Mekong canals and later, you will roam through the village to visit a rice husking mill, a rice noodles making shop which are nice chances to discover the daily life of Vietnamese people in Mekong Delta. Have lunch at local restaurant (on own) before driving back to Ho Chi Minh City for your flight to Da Nang. Pick you up and transfer you to your hotel. Stay overnight in Hoi An.

  Day 5 - Hoi An - My Son

  Place Transport: Car
  Meals: Breakfast - Lunch

  After breakfast, we will go to the My Son Holy land, once the spiritual capital of Champa Kingdom that dominated South East Asia for nearly a thousand years and occupied most of the central parts of Vietnam from 2nd century to 16th century with very rich in history and culture. Contemplate its remarkable red brick towers and sanctuaries dating from between the 7th and 13th centuries. My Son is interesting Vietnam Tours for the ones who want to learn about Vietnam History, Vietnam Culture, and Vietnam Architecture.
  Drive back to Hoi An, we end today in beautiful Hoi An Tour with the visit to the former merchants' homes, the 400 year-old Japanese Covered Bridge, Phuc Kien Pagoda and the colorful riverside market. Stay overnight in Hoi An.

  Day 6 - Hoi An

  Place Transport: 
  Meals: Breakfast

  Hoi An Ancient Town is an exceptionally well-preserved example of a South-East Asian trading port dating from the 15th to the 19th century. Its buildings and its street plan reflect the influences, both indigenous and foreign, that have combined to produce this unique heritage site.
  Day free to cycle through rice paddies in the countryside of Hoi An ancient town, shop for souvenirs among the antique shops and art galleries, or just sit at sidewalk cafes and soak up the atmosphere of this quaint town or relax on the white sandy beach of the famous Cua Dai beach. Stay overnight in Hoi An.

  Day 7 - Hoi An - Hue

  Place Transport: Car
  Meals: Breakfast - Lunch

  After breakfast, leave Hoi An for Hue- the last imperial capital of Vietnam, is well-known for magnificent architecture, pagodas and royal tombs laid in small villages and surrounding hills. En route have a look at the famous My Khe beach and visit Cham Museum which contains the finest collection of Cham sculpture in the world. Upon arrival in Hue, check into a hotel and free at leisure. Stay overnight in Hue.

  Day 8 - Hue City Tour - Fly to Ha Noi

  Place Transport: Car->Airplane
  Meals: Breakfast - Lunch

  Hue is one of places which has many cultural heritages. Up to now, there is no place like Hue remaining a lot of originally historical vestiges as in this ancient Capital City. After breakfast, our tour starts with the visit to Imperial Citadel before taking the beautiful boat trip on the romantic Perfume River and visit Hue's best-known religious site-Thien Mu Pagoda and the Mausoleum of former emperor Minh Mang in a tranquil setting of gardens and lakes. Return to the hotel. Our guide and driver will transfer you to Hue Airport for late flight to Ha Noi. Stay overnight in Ha Noi

  Day 9 - Ha Noi - Mai Chau

  Place Transport: Car
  Meals: Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner

  Mai Chau is the heart of a beautiful valley. It is a world away from the hustle and bustle of Hanoi. The modern village is an unappealing sprawl. Howrver, as you emerge on the rice fields and rural living, it is transformed into a real paradise. It’s a stunning area, and most people here are ethnic White Thai who stay in hatched-roof stilted houses on split bamboo floors and will be wonderful experience for your Vietnam Tours.
  8h00: pick you up at your hotel in Hanoi. We will drive our own way through villages, valleys of Ha Tay and Hoa Binh province. Lunch break at Hoa Binh town, visit Hoa Binh Hydro power- the biggest one in Viet Nam. Then continue the road up hills to Kun pass that offering spectacular views over the valleys and mountains. Arrive in Lac village of the Thai people in Mai Chau. Check in a still house then take a short walk around. After dinner, you can have chance to join the traditional dance of the White Thai people, taste Ruou Can - the special wine of the local made from rice and a kind of tree leaves. Overnight in Thai’s house on stilts.

  Day 10 - Mai Chau - Son La

  Place Transport: Car
  Meals: Breakfast - Lunch

  After breakfast, we drive to Son La and stop in Moc Chau to experience hundreds of giant grass farm for cows, You will know why this is the biggest milk center in Vietnam, continue driving to Son La and enjoy the view of the Northern mountains. Arrive in Son La at noon, check in hotel before visit “Son La prison" in the French war. Walk around the town and stay overnight in Son La.

  Day 11 - Son La - Dien Bien Phu

  Place Transport: Car
  Meals: Breakfast - Lunch

  Drive to Dien Bien Phu. Visit very primitive village of the Black Thai village that you can see the very basic conditions of life. Continue to biggest daily hill tribe market in Thuan Chau, You will have great opportunity to see different ethnic groups, local fruits, food, but it will be much more beautiful experience when reaching to the top of historical and amazing Pha Din Pass. It is time to take photos and listen to stories, especially about the French war, Visit another Green H’Mong village right there. Lunch in Tuan Giao . Continue our drive to Dien Bien. Stay overnight in a hotel.

  Day 12 - Dien Bien Phu - Muong Lay

  Place Transport: Car
  Meals: Breakfast - Lunch

  In the morning, visit of the museum and sites of Dien Bien Phu. Drive to Lai Chau and visit a village of the Black Dao People, if lucky, you will see an art of hair make-up of the old ladies-really something to admire. Walk along Da River before getting to your hotel that located in very lovely quiet town. Stay overnight in Muong Lay.

  Day 13 - Muong Lay - Sa Pa

  Place Transport: Car
  Meals: Breakfast - Lunch

  Drive to Sa Pa. During your way, you will see many different ethnic villages of the Lao, Lu, Black Dao, Tien Dao, Day, Red H’mong before driving up to the highest pass of Vietnam- Hoang Lien Son. Stop over on the top that called “Heaven Gate” for a wonderful view down to amazing valley and FanXiPan-the highest mount in Indochina (Roof of Vietnam). You also visit “Silver Waterfall”-the nicest one in the area before getting to your hotel in Sapa.

  Day 14 - Sa Pa (Lao Chai - Ta Van)

  Place Transport: Car
  Meals: Breakfast - Lunch

  Sapa is the Queen of the Mountains, overlooking a beautiful valley, lofty mountains towering over the town on all sides. Sapa Tour is gateway to another world of mysterious minority cultures and luscious landscapes. It is definitely a great choice for Vietnam Tours maker to arrange Vietnam Culture Tours, Vietnam Trekking Tours, and Vietnam Homestay Tours... After breakfast, we will do one of the most beautiful Sapa Tours by driving to visit Lao Chai and Ta Van village of the Black H'mong and the Day people where you can enjoy fresh air, amazing scenery of the imposing mountain range, trek down world's most beautiful terraced rice fields, visit some local family on the way and learn unique culture and life of these ethnic groups. Back to Sapa by private car. Fee at leisure for the rest of the day. Stay overnight in Sapa.

  Day 15 - Sa Pa - Train to Ha Noi

  Place Transport: Car->Train
  Meals: Breakfast - Lunch

  The markets in the Northern Vietnam are always the colorful meeting places for the hill tribes, spotlight for any Sapa Tours and of course, your unique Vietnam Tours experience. Minority people come down from the mountains to sell their products, or just for catching up on the latest news, gossip, drinking away troubles or seeking for lover. In the morning, drive to visit one of the areas weekly markets;
  Market days:
  Can Cau Market - Saturdays
  Bac Ha Market or Muong Hum Market or Muong Khuong Market - Sundays
  Cao Son Market - Wednesdays
  Lung Khau Nhin Market - Thursdays
  Coc Ly Market - Tuesdays
  In the late afternoon, your Sapa tour guide and driver transfer you back to Lao Cai to catch the night train back to Hanoi. We hope that you have enjoyed your Sapa Tours with us. We say goodbye with sincere thanks and looking forward to welcoming you again for your coming Vietnam Tours and Sapa Tours. Stay overnight on the train.

  Day 16 - Ha Noi - Free day

  Place Transport: 
  Meals: Breakfast

  In the early morning,we will arrival in Hanoi. You will be tranferred to a hotel for check-in. Free at leisure for the rest of the day. Stay overnight in Ha Noi

  Day 17 - Ha Noi - Ha Long

  Place Transport: Car->Cruise
  Meals: Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner

  This morning, after having breakfast, we drive to Ha Long Bay (165km, one of Vietnam’s, and indeed Southeast Asia’s, most spectacular natural attractions, whose staggering beauty has seen it listed as one of the eight natural wonders of the world. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Halong Bay, is highlight of any Vietnam Tours and presents a quite extraordinary vista of hundreds of limestone islands (over 1600 at last count) that rise from the jade green waters of the bay like the scales of some great submerged dragon. Indeed, Halong means ‘where the dragon descends to the sea’ and local legends tells of a time when this rugged landscape was created by the pounding tail of a mighty dragon as he ran from the mountains into the glittering waters of the bay below.
  Upon arrival, board your traditional wooden junk. Welcome drink on board. After taking a break, enjoy a delicious seafood lunch while cruising through the wonderful Ha Long bay to visit its amazing grottoes and caves. This is opportunity to dive off the boat and have a pleasant swimming in the deep blue water of East Sea before relaxing on your sun deck to view a Ha Long sunset. Dinner on board with excellent fresh seafood. Stay overnight on board.

  Day 18 - Ha Long - Ha Noi

  Place Transport: Cruise->Car
  Meals: Breakfast - Lunch

  People said that your Vietnam Tours would not have been done without a trip to Ha Long Bay and a romantic night on board. People describe Halong Bay as majestic and mysterious, inspiring and imperious. Imagine 3000 or more incredible islands rising from the emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin and you have a vision of breathtaking beauty. Ha Long Bay is pure art, a priceless collection of unfinished sculptures hewn from the hand of nature.
  This morning, get up early to catch the sunrise on the bay, doing Ta Chi on sundeck and relax with a cup of hot coffee or tea when the boat cruising to explore more about Ha Long Bay. All make your Vietnam Holiday more enjoyable. Back to Halong city, end of your beautiful Ha Long Bay Cruise around noon where our private guide and driver are waiting for the transfer back to Hanoi. Stay overnight in Ha Noi

  Day 19 - Ha Noi Depature

  Place Transport: Car->Airplane
  Meals: Breakfast

  Free time at leisure for you to wrap up your memorial Vietnam Holiday until our private guide will see you off at the airport with the sincere thanks for traveling with us. We hope that you have enjoyed your Vietnam Tours with Minmax and look forward to organizing your coming Vietnam Tours.

  The Tour Inclusion:

  - 18 Nights Accommodation with BKF.

  - Pick-ups and transfers by private air-conditioned vehicle as specified in the itinerary above (Please note: pick-ups will be by a guide and driver or, where a guide is not necessary, a driver only. All unaccompanied drivers will be briefed in advance, and will carry a mobile phone to ensure smooth transfer arrangements)

  - Domestic flight tickets, including domestic airport taxes.

  - Boat cruises as specified in the program

  - The services of experienced English-speaking guides as indicated in the itinerary (please note: guides will be on hand from pick-up until guests' return to their hotel or reaching their destination). Free days or part days will not include the services of a guide unless requested and included in the final itinerary.

  - Where necessary, entry fees for all visits as mentioned in the program

  - Meals (as specified in the itinerary) in the best local restaurants, or picnics where no suitable restaurant is available.

  The Tour Exclusion:

  - International flight tickets and airport tax.

  - Visas

  - Dinners, except as specified above.

  - Drinks, gratuities and personal expenses.

  - Surcharge for peak season (if any) & Other not mentioned in the above detail program.

  Additional Information

  Importance note

  - The itinerary is just a sample of our tours; we'll be pleased to design similar programs with dates and itinerary customized to your personal preferences in Tailor Made Tours section. Rates may vary frequently. Please contact us to get the best possible price based upon your travel period and specific touring needs.

  
  

  What to bring ?

  - Sun Block, Wide brim hat, Camera + Film, Comfortable shoes, Rain gear, Warm clothes, original Passport...

  
  

  How to start ?

  - MinMax Travel is a fully escorted tour and best-available all year round; the only thing you need to prepare in advance is the international air-ticket from/to your country.

  
  

  - If you don’t have enough time to complete visa before your departure, we will help you to obtain Vietnam Visa on arrival easily (getting visa at the airport, on your arrival)

Unseen Laos

Immerse yourself on a journey relatively touched by tourism. The Unseen Laos tour allows you to discover the secret secluded lives of the hill tribe people on a challenging trek and visit the various hill tribe groups of Akha, Laos, Dao, Khmu and Lantern. The people are very poor but they have interesting cultures and a colorful history. You will get a real village life experience by spending a night at the home of a Ban Nalan Villager. No visit to Laos is complete without exploring the main cities Vientiane, Luang Prabang and the peaceful town of Vang Vieng.

View 9 photos

Duration: 10 days/9 nights

Tour Code: MLSD01

Price from: US $n/a Pax

Tour Valid: December 31th, 2014

Highlights: Vientiane - Luang Namtha - Ban Nalan - Ban Namlu - Luang Namtha - Muong Sing - Oudomxay - Nong Khiow - Pak Ou Caves - Ban Sang Hay Village -Luang Prabang

• Day 1 - Vientiane Arrival - City Tour

  Place Transport: Airplane->Car
  Meals: Dinner

  On arrival in Vientiane Capital, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Located on the banks of the Mekong River, Vientiane is a charming and fascinating capital with an interesting mix of Lao, Thai, Chinese, Vietnamese, French, Soviet and American influences. A city tour acquaints us with the capital and after freshening up, we start visiting some the major sights including the oldest temple Wat Sisaket- an amazing structure featuring remarkable frescoes and Buddha images and the former royal temple of Wat Prakeo, which previously housed the famous Emerald Buddha Image. Enroute to Lao's national precious heritage, the famous and sacred structure of That Luang Stupa, you will have the opportunity to take some pictures of the imposing Patuxay Monument which is well known as Vientiane's own Arc de Triumph. Stay overnight in Vientiane. 

  Day 2 - Vientiane - Luang Namtha

  Place Transport: Car
  Meals: Breakfast - Lunch

  The journey northwards begins as we board our flight to Luang Namtha- a province sharing its border with China and Myanmar. Luang Namtha is located on the banks of the Namtha River is a land of rugged mountains and beautiful tropical forests. Today, Luang Namtha is populated with over twenty ethnic groups, making this region one of the most ethnically diverse provinces in Laos. No activities are planned for the rest of the day, so you can stroll around the town or just relax at the riverside retreat until the briefing about our upcoming trekking days. Stay overnight in Luang Namtha.

  Day 3 - Luang Namtha - Ban Nalan

  Place Transport: Car
  Meals: Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner

  Heading out of the town, we take a short drive to Ban Chalernsuk- a Khmu minority village 20 kilometres away from Luang Namtha. We get well and truly off the beaten track as we trek into this beautiful mountain region, using the local tracks. Today, trekking may be tough at times with some steep uphill and down hill climbs, but the experience is unique and rewarding. The friendly Khmu hill tribe resides in this area; they have a primitive and basic lifestyle. We arrive at Ban Nalan in the late afternoon. Here, we have a chance to understand a little more about the local culture and their daily lifestyle as we spend time with a Khmu family. We enjoy a local dinner and reside as guests at the Khmu family house- the best way to experience authentic village life. The accommodation is simple dormitory style, no western facilities. (Home stay).

  Day 4 - Ban Nalan - Ban Namlu - Luang Namtha

  Place Transport: Car
  Meals: Breakfast - Lunch

  Today, trekking leads us along the bank of the river to Ban Namkoy, passing picturesque landscape of forests and rice fields. The forests here vary from a few isolated trees to overgrown bamboo. On arrival at Ban Namkoy, we embark on a three-hour walk uphill. This trek is a real challenge; however, some prior physical preparation will enable you to maximize your enjoyment from the walk. As we pass through several hamlets, we are sure to attract attention from the locals as visitors do not frequently encounter this remote part of the country. At the small village of Ban Namlu, we meet up with our truck and drive back towards Luang Namtha Town. Stay overnight in Luang Namtha.

  Day 5 - Luang Namtha - Moung Sing

  Place Transport: Car
  Meals: Breakfast - Lunch

  Early this morning, we travel by road to Moung Sing- is home of various hill tribe communities. There is also a significant Chinese population and a lot of trade goes on between here and China. We stop along the way at the Akha hill tribe village. This ethnic group originally lived in China but immigrated into Laos over a century ago. They are very poor, but have a vibrant culture and an interesting history. We depart this village, head to westbound, travel over bumpy roads to Chinese border, stroll around and visit hill tribe villages. In late afternoon, we drive back to Muong Sing with a stopover at the Lantern minority village. Stay overnight at Moung Sing.

  Day 6 - Muong Sing - Oudomxay

  Place Transport: Car
  Meals: Breakfast - Lunch

  In the early morning, we visit the bustling colorful Morning Market and the impressive ethnologic museum, dedicated to region's ethnic minorities. We then continue go to Oudomxay. Our splendid journey downhill passes numerous small villages en-route visit Khmu and Lantere. On arrival at Oudomxay, you will be transferred to your hotel before we commence our sightseeing tour of the town to visit the stupa of Santhiphap that overlooks this bustling center of local trade and commerce. Stay overnight in Oudomxay.

  Day 7 - Oudomxay – Nong Khiow - Pak Ou Caves - Ban Sang Hay Village -Luang Prabang

  Place Transport: Car->Boat
  Meals: Breakfast - Lunch

  We depart early for our drive to Nong Khiow where we board a traditional boat down the Nam Ou River to Luang Prabang. This tranquil town with its gleaming temple roofs, fading colonial architecture and stunning mountain backdrop has been claimed by UNESCO to be"the best preserved traditional city in South East Asia". En route, we visit the mysterious Pak Ou Caves where thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues are crammed into the two caves carved out of a towering limestone cliff. The we go down river to Ban Sang Hay village to sample the local rice wine known as Lao Lao. We arrive at Luang Prabang in the late afternoon and go to the hotel. Stay overnight in Luang Prabang.

  Day 8 - Luang Prebang City Tour

  Place Transport: Car
  Meals: Breakfast - Lunch

  After breakfast, we explore some of the major sights in this faboulous city, including the impressive stupa of Wat Visoun, the shrine of Wat Aham, and the city's oldest temple of Wat Sene and Wat Mai. We visit these sights as well as the magnificent Wat Xiengthong. Its exterior architecture is remarkable with decorated gilded stuccoes and doorways, a "tree of life" mosaic pattern set in colored glass on the back wall and its three tiered roofs sweeping low to the ground representing classical Laotian architecture. A visit to Luang Prabang would be incomplete without ascending 329 steps to the top of Mount Phousi for an enjoyable exploration of the sacred, gilded stupa and to enjoy a beautiful sunset view of the city and its glowing reflection on the Mekong River. From there, we explore the Night Market where you can find a lovely selection of handmade textiles made by local and hill tribe people surrounding Luang Prabang. Stay overnight in Luang Prabang.

  Day 9 - Luang Prabang - Vang Vieng - Vientiane

  Place Transport: Car
  Meals: Breakfast

  After breakfast, we leave this charming city in the early morning for our journey to Vang Vieng. Our journey will be strenuous as we drive along one of the most scenic but also one of the roughest routes in Asia. In the afternoon, we arrive in Vang Vieng, a small and tranquil town which is nestled on a bend of the Nam Song River. Its stunning scenery with a mixture of quiet water and limestone outcrops remains unspoiled despite recent developments with the advent of tourism. After exploring this peaceful and dream-like city, we continue our journey to Vientiane capital. We arrive in Vientiane in the late evening. Stay overnight in Vientiane.

  Day 10 - Vientiane Depature

  Place Transport: Car->Airplane
  Meals: Breakfast

  After breakfast, you are free until your transfer to the airport.

  The Tour Inclusion:

  - 09 Nights Accommodation with breakfast.

  - Pick-ups and transfers by private air-conditioned vehicle as specified in the itinerary above.

  - Boat cruises as specified in the program.

  - The services of experienced English-speaking guides as indicated in the itinerary.

  - Where necessary, entry fees for all visits as mentioned in the program.

  - Meals (as specified in the itinerary) in the best local restaurants, or picnics where no suitable restaurant is available.

  The Tour Exclusion:

  - International flight tickets and airport tax. Visas.

  - Dinners, except as specified above.

  - Drinks, gratuities and personal expenses.

  - Surcharge for peak season (if any) & other not mentioned in the above detail program

  Additional Information

  Importance note

  - The itinerary is just a sample of our tours; we'll be pleased to design similar programs with dates and itinerary customized to your personal preferences in Tailor Made Tours section. Rates may vary frequently. Please contact us to get the best possible price based upon your travel period and specific touring needs.

  What to bring?

  - Sun Block, Wide brim hat, Camera + Film, Comfortable shoes, Rain gear, Warm clothes, original Passport...

  How to start?

  - MinMax Travel is a fully escorted tour and best-available all year round; the only thing you need to prepare in advance is the international air-ticket from/to your country.

   - If you don’t have enough time to complete visa before your departure, we will help you to obtain Laos Visa on arrival easily (getting visa at the airport, on your arrival).

Ha Long Bay Tour

Ha Long Bay was first listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994, in recognition of its outstanding, universal aesthetic value. In 2000 the World Heritage Committee additionally recognized Ha Long Bay for its outstanding geological and geomorphologic value, and its World Heritage Listing was updated. The New Open World Foundation has included Halong Bay on its list for nomination as one the World's 7 Natural Wonders.

View 6 photos

Duration: 2 days/1 night

Tour Code: MVSB05

Price from: US $95.00 Pax

Tour Valid: December 31th, 2014

Highlights: Ha Noi - Ha Long Bay - Ha Noi

• Day 1 - Ha Noi - Ha Long

  Place Transport: Car->Cruise 
  Meals: Lunch - Dinner

  Pick you up at your hotel,depart Ha Noi at 8:00 am and drive 3 hours by van to Ha Long City. Get on the Junk, enjoy welcome drink and a lunch of savoury local sea food. Check into your cabin and start on a 4 hour cruise of the bay to see the amazing karsts with different rock formations : Lion, Tea Pot, Toad, and Dau Nguoi ( Human Head) islet. Then stop for walking though the Sung sot cave - an amazing cave. There will be plenty of time for swimming and subathing ( if weather permits) as you anchor for a night on the bay . Enjoy a wonderful sunset dinner in our beautiful restaurant before retiring to the comfort of your cabin.

  Day 2 - Ha Long - Ha Noi

  Place Transport: Cruise->Car 
  Meals: Breakfast - Lunch

  Cruising through Van Gia floating Village in the morning, we'll visit  and kayak around. Then go to Bai Tu Long Bay- the neglected area which is the most miraculous bay with islands in different shapes , then take a look at Hon Gai market and Poem Island. Come back to Ha Long city for lunch in the restaurant. After luch, MinMax Travel's staff will take you back to Ha Noi city. Arrive in Ha Noi around 4:00pm. The trip ends.

  The Tour Inclusion:

  - Full equipped luxury en-suite cabin with A/C, hot water

  - All meals on board - Complimentary mineral water

  - Complimentary morning tea and coffee

  - Cookery demonstrations (on request)

  - Entrance and sightseeing fees

  - Kayaking - Fishing equipment - English speaking guide

  The Tour Exclusion:

  - Mini bus per person round trip 

  - Private car (upon request)

  - Beauty Spa and massage

  - Additional drinks

  - Tips and other personal expenses

  - All other services not clearly mentioned above

  Additional Information

  Importance note

  - The itinerary is just a sample of our Vietnam tours; we'll be pleased to design similar programs with dates and itinerary customized to your personal preferences in Tailor Made Tours section. Rates may vary frequently. Please contact us to get the best possible price based upon your travel period and specific touring needs.

  
  

  What to bring ?

  - Sun Block, Wide brim hat, Camera + Film, Comfortable shoes, Rain gear, Warm clothes, original Passport...

  
  

  How to start ?

  - MinMax Travel is a fully escorted tour and best-available all year round; the only thing you need to prepare in advance is the international air-ticket from/to your country.

  
  

  - If you don’t have enough time to complete visa before your departure, we will help you to obtain Vietnam Visa on arrival easily (getting visa at the airport, on your arrival).