You’ll find short, easy treks around town, and multi-day journeys with overnight homestays further afield. More extreme adventures climb steep mountains to unrivalled views. Treks into the hinterland also await north of Luang Prabang for those travelling to Muang Ngoi and Nong Kiew.
Tiger Trail’s Treks in Luang Prabang
Time-strapped, active travellers can take a 1-day trek and visit places that feel much farther out of town than seems possible. You’ll encounter the Hmong and Khmu ethnic groups and get insight into their way of life, kayak down the Nam Khan River, and observe amazing landscapes along the way. (Tour TK-1)
“Wow, wow, wow…” exclaim travellers when returning from Tiger Trail’s famed, 1-day 100 Waterfalls Trek and boat ride in Nong Khiaw. The trek’s founder, Tiger Trail, takes you on a day of hiking and exploring the jungle and its hundreds of cascading waterfalls. The path continues to the top of the falls and a view of the river valley. Then, you’ll descend to the Nam Ou River and a boat ride back to Nong Khiaw. (Tour NK100W-1)
Head out on a 1-day FairTrek community-based hiking tour that wanders through the foothills of a jungle-covered limestone mountain to visit local Hmong and Khmu hill tribe villages. You’ll hop on a boat for a cruise on the Nam Khan River, and, during Green Season, a visit to the Tad Sae waterfall to swim and explore. Funds from this FairTrek help support the local community. Learn more about the FairTrek program here. (Tour FT-1AM)
Looking for the best way to see beautiful Kuang Si Waterfall? Take a trek on a lush forest trail that winds through local villages and offers views of Lao mountain landscapes. Discover a spring on the way as well. This 3-4-hour trek lands at the turquoise pools of the falls, where you can cool down, swim, and enjoy the Kuang Si Waterfall Nature Reserve and Bear Rescue Centre. (Tour KST-1)
Join this 2-day “FairTrek” community-based tourism adventure, and immerse yourself in unrivalled landscapes and local rural village life. The trek follows the slopes and hills of a huge mountain range along trails used by locals to reach distant Khmu and Hmong villages. Meet the villagers and spend the night in one of their small family homestays. You’ll get introduced to Lao Loum, Lao Theung, and Lao Sung people and their culture. Share life and get to know the real Lao countryside, while helping the communities through your contributions. The tour also includes a visit to the Tad Sae waterfalls (seasonal). Learn more about the FairTrek program here. (Tour FT-2)
Take a couple of days and get the real feel for Luang Prabang’s environs. You’ll trek into mountainous jungle just outside of town, and meet Hmong and Khmu ethnic groups, before a homestay at a Khmu village. The following morning (Nov-July), hike 90 minutes to Ban En for a 2.5-hour kayaking experience on the Nam Khan. During Green Season (Aug-Oct), you’ll trek to Tad Sae Waterfall and follow trails leading behind the torrent, before a boat ride to a kayak and a 3-4-hour paddle downriver. (Tour TK-2)
Step into a 3-day FairTrek combination tour with biking adventures, an elephant experience (no riding), homestays in remote villages, trekking, and kayaking in the beautiful mountains surrounding Luang Prabang. Discover the untouched nature and distinct cultures that Laos offers in an experience that mixes activities with relaxation. This adventure will stand as the highlight of your time in in the country. Learn more about the FairTrek program here. (Tour EBTK-3)
Venture deep into the mountains for three days, and trek through jungle and rice paddies to homestays in remote Hmong and Khmu villages. Along the way, you’ll see rice fields clinging to steep peaks, while immersing yourself in the people and cultures of those tending to these remote Lao landscapes. Get ready for adventure and step into the world of Lao mountain village tribes on this unforgettable trekking and homestay experience by Tiger Trail. (Tour TPX-3)
Get active, get out there, and explore the secrets of Luang Prabang and Lao nature on this exhilarating 3-day adventure trip into the countryside around the UNESCO World Heritage city. You’ll mountain bike, hike, and kayak through the Nam Khan River valley, while stopping to visit small ethnic villages and the people. Immerse yourself in Lao life and nature during this active, exciting, and fun tour. (Tour BTK-3)
Nestled in the Khmu and Hmong villages of Nong Khuay and Long Lao Mai, the Eco Bungalows present private retreats that combine adventure with cultural exchange. Trek through verdant mountains, take in the splendour of Kuang Si Waterfall, and learn about Laos’ fascinating diverse ethnic culture…and at the end of each day, relax in the privacy of your own bungalow. Learn more about the FairTrek program here. (FTBKS-3)
Journey around Nong Khiaw and nearby Muang Ngoi Village, two small but increasingly popular Nam Ou Riverside communities known for their undeveloped and stunning mountain scenery. This 3-day tour takes you on a hike through jungle and mountains to a traditional homestay at Hmong, Lao Leum, or Khmu villages. Spend Days 2 and 3 exploring village life by boat. You’ll cruise to a riverbank homestay, hike to local caves, and refresh yourself in waterfalls on this perfect Nong Khiaw trek and river explorer. (Tour NKT-3BM)
Take your time getting to know Northern Laos on this trip through some of the country’s most beautiful places. You’ll hike through rich jungle-covered mountains for which Nong Khiaw is famous, trek the famous 100 Waterfalls tour, homestay with traditional ethnic tribes, and take in the grandeur of the landscape from a riverboat up and down the Nam Ou River. (Tour NKA-4)
Easy to access from Luang Prabang, Nong Khiaw remains remote and features a stunning mountain landscape, and it’s all yours during a 6-day tour. You’ll trek along scenic trails, overnight at ethnic homestays, and cruise up and down the Nam Ou River by boat for a full-on immersive experience in Nong Khiaw. The tour mixes basic overnight homestays for incredible cultural experiences with accommodation at comfortable guesthouses. Here, you can refresh with modern comforts to re-energize for more jungle hikes well off the beaten path. (Tour NKMA-6)
Looking for that hidden paradise in a remote, mountainous landscape? Head to Nong Khiaw on a 7-day adventure. You’ll hike distant trails, sleep in ethnic-village homes, and cruise the Nam Ou River during this immersive experience in Nong Khiaw. Accommodation during the adventure bounces between basic homestays in remote villages to comfortable guesthouses. Here, you can refresh with some modern comforts to re-energize for the next stage of incredible jungle hikes and cultural homestays well off the beaten path. (Tour NKHP-7)
Optional Treks in Luang Prabang’s Environs & Beyond!
4 DAYS
This 4-day Luang Prabang Explorer tour immerses you in the cultural gems and natural beauty of Laos. Explore Luang Prabang’s ancient temples like Wat Xiengthong and Wat Vison, cruise the Mekong River to the Pak Ou Caves filled with Buddha statues, and witness the daily alms offering to saffron-clad monks. Step back in time at Ban Phanom village, known for its traditional weaving, and connect with nature at Kuang Si Waterfall’s turquoise pools. Your adventure also includes an optional elephant experience, visits to Lao ethnic minority villages, and stunning sunset views. This carefully curated itinerary balances sightseeing with relaxation, making it a perfect introduction to the enchanting city of Luang Prabang.
5 DAYS
PAKSE – BOLAVEN PLATEAU – 4000 ISLANDS – CHAMPASAK – PAKSE
This tour is a 5-day exploration of southern Laos, focusing on the coffee-growing Bolaven Plateau, the 4000 Islands in the Mekong River, and the ancient Khmer temple complex of Vat Phou. You’ll visit waterfalls, explore charming towns, and experience the laid-back pace of life in rural Laos. The tour includes all sightseeing, transportation, accommodation, meals, and an English-speaking guide.
8 DAYS
LUANG PRABANG – OUDOMXAY – NONG KHIAW
This is an 8-day tour of Northern Laos that takes you to Luang Prabang, Oudomxay, and Nong Khiaw. You’ll visit stunning waterfalls, ancient cave shrines, and traditional villages. You’ll also have the opportunity to experience Lao culture, such as a baci ceremony and a visit to a cotton weaving village. The tour includes all transportation, accommodation, meals, and entrance fees.
Day 1: Arrive in Luang Prabang Day 2: Visit Kuang Si waterfall, Hmong and Khamu villages, Wat Visounalat, Wat Mai, Wat Xieng Thong, and Phousi Hill. Day 3: Visit the Mandalao Elephant Sanctuary, Tad Kuang Song Waterfall, and learn about elephant communication. Day 4: Take the train from Luang Prabang to Oudomxay, then drive to Nam Kat Yorla Pa Resort. Day 5: Activities at Nam Kat Resort, such as trekking, sky bridges, zip-lining, and visiting waterfalls. Day 6: Drive from Nam Kat to Nong Khiaw, with a stop at Muang Khua. Take a boat cruise down the Nam Ou River. Day 7: Drive from Nong Khiaw to Luang Prabang, with stops at Ban Na Nyang and Pak Ou Caves. Take a boat on the Mekong River to Luang Prabang. Day 8: Depart from Luang Prabang
10 DAYS
NORTHERN LAOS – HILLTRIBES & JUNGLES
Houay Xay – Vieng Phouka – Luang Namtha – Muang Khua – Nong Khiaw – Luang Prabang
Embark on a 10-day adventure through Northern Laos, trekking through jungles, cruising rivers, and encountering diverse hill tribes. Starting in Houay Xai, explore villages of Lanten people, then delve into the Nam Ha National Protected Area for three days of trekking, encountering wildlife and experiencing village life. Travel through scenic countryside to Muang Khua, boat down the Nam Ou River, and trek through jungles near Muang Ngoy. Reach Nong Khiaw and explore the “100 waterfalls,” then wind your way to Luang Prabang, visiting a traditional weaving village. Immerse yourself in stunning landscapes, local cultures, and unforgettable experiences.
16 DAYS
This 16-day tour of Laos offers a diverse experience, from ancient temples and bustling cities to stunning natural landscapes and laid-back island life.
The first half of the tour focuses on Laos’ rich history and culture. Travelers will explore the charming city of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its beautiful temples and vibrant markets. They’ll also learn about the traditional way of life at a rice farm and encounter the fascinating Hmong hill tribe.
The second half of the tour delves into the natural beauty of southern Laos. The Mekong River takes center stage, as travelers cruise through the 4,000 Islands, marvel at the mighty Khone Phapheng Waterfall, and explore the ancient Khmer temple complex of Vat Phou. They can also visit coffee and tea plantations in the Bolaven Plateau and relax on the peaceful island of Don Khong.
Throughout the tour, travelers will have the opportunity to experience Lao culture firsthand. They’ll learn about Buddhist traditions, try their hand at traditional crafts, and enjoy delicious Lao cuisine.
This tour is perfect for anyone who wants to experience the best of what Laos has to offer. It combines adventure and relaxation, culture and nature, and will leave you with unforgettable memories of this beautiful country.
6 DAYS
CLASSIC LAOS
VIENTIANE – VANG VIENG – LUANG PRABANGÂ
This 6-day tour explores the classic highlights of Laos, starting in Vientiane with visits to temples like Wat Sisaket and the Pha That Luang Stupa. Next, you’ll journey to Vang Vieng, nestled amidst stunning limestone cliffs, before reaching the UNESCO World Heritage city of Luang Prabang. Here, you’ll explore by tuk tuk, visiting temples like Wat Xieng Thong and climbing Mount Phousi for panoramic views. The final day includes a trip to the breathtaking Tad Kuang Si Waterfalls and a chance to learn about local Hmong and Khmu cultures. This tour offers a perfect blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty, allowing you to experience the best of what Laos has to offer.