Mekong Service Base

Touch down in Luang Prabang, where ancient temples, French colonial architecture, rich history, and unmatched beauty have earned the town UNESCO World Heritage status.

Sit down with local teens and university students to learn about their lives and swap stories as you help them improve their English fluency through practice with a native speaker. Bike through the side streets and back roads of Luang Prabang, stopping at temples, small shops, the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Center, and the UXO Lao Visitors Center.

Venture into the countryside to a Khmu hill tribe community, where Rustic students have worked to improve village infrastructure, build a primary school, and improve water access.

• Customization Example: Choose to stay with local families in homestays or return to the base house each night.

Dive in for another day of service, working hard as a team that includes locals who want to assist with the project. Afterward, relax with your new friends, play games, and start collecting your memories in a journal and settle into northern Laos living.

Leave the village for a three-hour hike through the surrounding countryside, passing small villages, farmland, and rice fields before you arrive at the stunning Kuang Si Falls. Take a refreshing dip in the bright blue pools or hike to the top and enjoy the sweeping views across the valley of Luang Prabang. Enjoy a traditional Lao massage before returning to the base for another delicious Lao-style dinner and service reflection discussion.

• Customization Example: Add a day to your to trek alongside elephants.

Rise early to the sound of the gong, which calls the monks to morning prayer every day before they give morning alms. Kayak to Tad Sae Waterfall for a dip and snack before continuing down the river. Close out your program with a special Laotian dance performance by a troupe of local women before they show you a few moves.

After one last French baguette and Lao coffee, head to the airport for your departing flight. You’ll no doubt leave with many amazing memories of your time in Laos!