Southern Laos Adventure

Arrive into Ubon Ratchathani Airport (UBP) in Thailand and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. You’ll take a short drive across the Laos border, a transition that will surely feel like you’ve gone back decades in time. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture.

Board a long-tail boat and cruise Lao-style on the Mekong river to Champasak. Arrive at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Wat Phou, a Khmer Hindu temple complex dating to the fifth century. Explore the ruins, climbing over the stones to discover carvings that adorn the palace walls in the style of Angkor Wat in Cambodia. Walk to the top of the mountain for some incredible views before heading back to Pakse for the evening.

Venture into the Bolaven Plateau, created long ago by a volcano and home to breathtaking mountain views, extensive coffee plantations, and cascading waterfalls. Follow your local guides through the countryside on an all-day trek that includes a picnic lunch and a swim at one of the many waterfalls that dot the trails. Stop at the famous Tad Yuang Waterfall, taking in the views of the valley. Enjoy a traditional Lao massage tonight.

Wander among the bustling stalls of the local Pakse Market to see how local commerce takes place in this part of the world. Drive three hours south in private vans to Si Phan Don, the four thousands islands region of southern Laos. Take a boat ride out to Don Khon, where you’ll spend the next few days getting into the groove of southern Laos living.

Hop on bikes and explore the island of Don Khon, passing through local villages and riding between water buffalo on your way to waterfalls where the locals do their fishing. Climb aboard a long-tail boat and head onto the river and search for endangered Irrawaddy dolphins! Continuing by bike, you’ll ride to the gushing Li Phi Falls.

Explore the waters of Si Phan Don, kayaking between the small islands and taking in the gorgeous scenery. Pack and head to the mainland, driving back to Pakse for a final celebratory meal and take stock of all you’ve seen and done this past week.

On your last morning in Laos, rise early and enjoy one last French baguette and Lao coffee, before heading to the airport for your departing flight. Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.