Linking Capitals - 7 Days / 6 Nights

Steeped in history and filled with beautiful scenery, Laos is quickly emerging as one of Asia's favorite destinations. This week-long tour connects the country's two capitals: from the spiritual and cultural capital of Luang Prabang to the administrative capital of Vientiane. Visit temples, natural wonders, museums and more as you discover the history and wonders of Laos with Exotissimo's expert guides.

Set on a peninsula along the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, Luang Prabang has a sleepy feel to it as the waters meander along the tree-lined banks. The city is home to thousands of monks and is evidenced by the hundreds of temples that dot the roads and small laneways of the town. Wake up early one morning to watch the serene alms-collecting ceremony where the towns' monks barefoot down the sidewalks to collect offerings from the locals. The line of bright orange robes swish by, dramatically contrasting to the green trees and white buildings behind them. 

Whilst in Luang Prabang, visit the Traditional Arts and Ethics Centre to learn about the multitude of ethnic minorities in the country. The Heritage Information Centre will provide insight in to the ongoing conservation projects in this UNESCO World Heritage City. Continue your exploration of Laos culture with a cooking class, a fun way to experience the fresh local cuisine.

Venture away from the main part of Luang Prabang with a trip out to the Kuang Sii waterfalls, where you can swim in the blue waters.  Travel up the Mekong by private boat to Pak Ou, where thousands of Buddha statues fill the limestone caves.  Spend a night in the peaceful Kamu Lodge, where you can try your hand at planting rice, traditional fishing methods, or simply relax and soak in the scenery of the countryside.

The final stop of your trip is Vientiane, the administrative capital. Although bigger and busier than its northern counterpart, Vientiane is still very sleepy compared to the other capital cities of Asia. A city tour unlocks the hidden charm of Vientiane. Temples such as Sisaket, Simvang, and Phra Keo have an understated elegance and are nestled in courtyards filled with frangipani trees. See the bizarre Patuxai monument, a Lao version of the Arc de Triomphe, and the golden stupa of That Luang, one of Laos' most important religious sites. Learn about one of Laos' delicacies as you watch local coffee being roasted and blended.

Nobody knows the secrets of Laos like Exotissimo. Unlock the secrets of the country with this fabulous 'Linking Capitals' tour.