2 for 1 Best of Laos

• Return international flights (economy class), surcharges may apply

• 7 nights of hotel accommodation

• Enjoy daily breakfast while on tour

• English-speaking local guides
• Sightseeing and monument entry fees

• Transportation by private air-conditioned vehicle
• High-speed air-conditioned train from Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang, and Luang Prabang to Vientiane

• Return airport transfers

• Arrive Early: Arrive up to 30 days before your tour starts (does not include hotel accommodation, meals or transfers)
• Stay Behind: Return up to 30 days after your tour concludes (does not include hotel accommodation, meals or transfers)
• Stopover Packages: Break up the long-haul flight with a stopover at a fantastic location (see checkout for details)
• Optional Tours: Optional experiences and tours are available to add to your itinerary (see checkout for details)
• Flight Upgrades: Upgrade to Business Class (see checkout for details)
• Preferred Airline: Fly with a preferred airline (see checkout for details)

Please note: Extra charges may apply, see the Important Info section and checkout cart for fees and details

Today, you'll depart from Australia (or New Zealand) for Vientiane, Laos. Upon arrival in Vientiane, a representative will be waiting to transfer you to the hotel where you can enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. '

Welcome to Laos, a landlocked country known for its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage and tranquil atmosphere. The country is home to ancient Buddhist temples, lush mountains and the majestic Mekong River which flows through its heart. Vientiane, the capital of Laos, is a charming city that blends French colonial architecture with traditional Lao culture.

Please note: Due to flight scheduling and availability, some departures may occur on Day 0. Affected customers must be at the airport the day before. Flight times will be indicated on your final documentation which you will receive before departure.

Overnight: Aaron Hotel, Vientiane or similar

Meals included: In-Flight

Today you'll spend time exploring Vientiane, a captivating capital where sacred Buddhist temples, French colonial architecture and a park filled with Buddhist and Hindu statues await discovery.

Begin with a visit to Wat Si Muang where you can admire its beautiful design and hear fascinating legends that hold deep significance for the Laotian people. You'll then drive out to Xieng Khuan, also known as Buddha Park, and marvel at over 200 Hindu and Buddhist statues. You'll then stop at the Lao Disabled Women’s Development Centre which assists disabled women with employment, education and livelihood. If you'd like, you can support the women by purchasing some of their handicrafts.

After lunch (not included), you'll visit Pha That Luang Buddhist temple, also known as the Great Stupa of Vientiane, that's shimmering in gold. Afterwards, you'll head to the Patuxai Victory Monument that was built to honour those who fought for independence from France. Enjoy time to climb the stairs for a panoramic view of the city.

Continuing to Wat Si Saket, you'll see Vientiane’s oldest temple where more than 2,000 ceramic and silver Buddha figures are housed within the monastery walls. Explore the collection of Lao and Khmer art here before ending the day with a stroll along the banks of the Mekong River. Enjoy a snack of delicious Laotian street food or relax with a Beerlao (not included) as the sun sets over the river.

Afterwards, you’ll be returned to the hotel where you can enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Overnight: Aaron Hotel, Vientiane or similar

Meals included: Breakfast

Embark on an approximately 130-kilometre scenic drive north through breathtaking landscapes and picturesque countryside, passing by local villages on your way to the small town of Vang Vieng. Nestled along the Nam Song River, Vang Vieng is renowned for its towering limestone karsts and numerous caves.

After a brief refresh, you'll set out to explore one of the area’s most famous caves, Tham Jang. Here you'll hear tales of how it served as a refuge for locals during invasions by Chinese forces centuries ago. You'll then enjoy a leisurely longtail boat ride to take in the stunning surroundings as you glide along the river.

Afterwards, you’ll be returned to the hotel where you can enjoy the remainder of the afternoon at leisure.

Overnight: Confetti Garden Hotel or similar

Meals included: Breakfast

Today, you can enjoy a day at leisure to independently explore Vang Vieng or alternatively, choose to participate in an optional tour.

Optional Activity: Kayaking & Cave Exploration Adventure
Duration: 8:30 - 15:30
Activity Level: Moderate

Start your adventure with a 10-kilometre ride from your hotel in Vang Vieng to the picturesque Khmu village of Ban Vieng Sa Mai. Under the guidance of your adventure leader, you'll receive a briefing on kayaking basics and safety before setting off down the Nam Song River. As you paddle, you'll be surrounded by lush mountainous landscapes with occasional rapids leading you to the enchanting Tham Norn Cave, located right by the water's edge. Before entering the cave, your guide will share stories about its historical significance, particularly during Laos' tumultuous past including the Second Indochina War. Inside, you'll have the chance to tube through the cave's passages and emerge on the other side of the mountain where a picnic lunch will be served on banana leaves. Nearby, a charming riverside bar offers refreshments as you enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the Namsong River.

After lunch, your guide will take you to explore the recently discovered Tham Nang Far, or Angel Cave, where you'll marvel at intricate stalactite and stalagmite formations resembling various animals. This is a perfect spot to capture some incredible photos. The adventure concludes with a paddle back to town, wrapping up a day filled with unforgettable experiences. Please see current pricing in Important Information.

Optional Activity: Cycle to Blue Lagoon & Local Villages
Duration: 8:30 - 15:30
Activity Level: Moderate

Spend the day exploring the picturesque countryside and lush jungles of Vang Vieng on a sturdy mountain bike, guided by an experienced tour leader. Your adventure begins in the morning as you pedal out of town, crossing the Nam Song River via a quaint bridge. Your first destination is Phou Kham Cave, a mystical enclave perched atop a mountain, rich with ancient allure and untouched by time.

After a rewarding trek to explore the cave's natural wonders, you'll descend to the tranquil Blue Lagoon below, one of Vang Vieng’s most famous attractions, perfect for a refreshing swim. The journey continues as you cycle along the rugged dirt roads of the Blue Lagoon Loop, covering over 30 kilometres of scenic trails. Along the way, you'll pass through charming villages and breathtaking landscapes with plenty of opportunities to pause, rest and capture the essence of rural life.

As the day comes to an end, you'll pedal back towards Vang Vieng, crossing the Nam Song River once more and returning to town, reflecting on a day filled with adventure and the serenity of nature. Please see current pricing in Important Information.

Optional Activity: Caves & Local Villages Trekking
Duration: 8:30 - 16:00
Activity Level: Easy to moderate

Begin your day with a 15-kilometre truck ride north of Vang Vieng. Depending on the season, you'll either cross the Nam Song River by boat or via a bridge. Your first stop is Tham Xang, or Elephant Cave, where you'll explore ancient Buddha statues and limestone formations. You'll then visit a traditional Lao village to experience local culture before trekking through rice fields and mountains. Along the way you'll discover Tham Hoi and Tham Loup caves, filled with Buddha statues and historical carvings. At Tham Nam, the Water Cave, enjoy tubing through cool waters followed by a barbecue lunch.

Conclude the adventure with a visit to a Hmong village, where you can interact with locals before returning to Vang Vieng. Please see current pricing in Important Information.

Overnight: Confetti Garden Hotel or similar

Meals included: Breakfast

Start your day with an early trip to the train station to board the new bullet train to Luang Prabang, cutting your travel time to just 60 minutes. This high-speed train, recently launched as part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, offers a quick and comfortable journey.

Upon arrival, you'll head straight to Kuang Si Falls. This is the largest waterfall in Laos featuring three tiers and a 50-metre drop. Enjoy time here relaxing and swimming in the stunning azure pools before returning to the city. On the way back, you'll stop by the Buffalo Dairy Farm, Laos' only farm producing dairy products from buffalo milk. At this inspiring non-profit organisation, you can try milking a buffalo and sample delicious buffalo ice cream.

Finish your day with a visit to the famous Night Market where you'll find a beautiful selection of handmade textiles crafted by local and hilltribe artisans from the Luang Prabang area.

Overnight: Vansana Luang Prabang Hotel or similar

Meals included: Breakfast

Start your day early by experiencing the traditional alms-giving ceremony where monks from nearby monasteries walk through the peaceful streets to receive offerings of rice and food from locals. This serene ritual takes place within walking distance of the hotel and can be observed independently.

After breakfast, you'll board a traditional longtail boat for a cruise along the Mekong River to the sacred Pak Ou Caves. Here you can climb the stairs to explore the caves, home to hundreds of Buddha statues and a revered shrine.

On your return journey by road, you'll stop at a local village known for its rice wine production. Upon reaching Luang Prabang, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. For a memorable experience, consider walking to Mount Phousi and climbing its 328 steps for stunning sunset views over the city and the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers.

Overnight: Vansana Luang Prabang Hotel or similar

Meals included: Breakfast

Start your morning with a guided walk through Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage town known for its beautifully preserved blend of traditional Lao and French colonial architecture. You'll visit key sites including the Royal Palace Museum, Wat Sene and the magnificent Wat Xieng Thong which is renowned for its classical Laotian design. Admire old Chinese shop houses, traditional Lao homes and French colonial buildings as you explore.

Afterwards, you'll transfer to the train station for your approximately 2-hour journey to Vientiane. Enjoy the scenic views through large picture windows as you travel through more than 75 tunnels and across 167 bridges.

Upon arrival in Vientiane, you'll transfer to your accommodation where the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure.

Overnight: Aaron Hotel, Vientiane or similar

Meals included: Breakfast

Today, at the appropriate time, you will be transferred to the airport for your return flight to Australia (or New Zealand).

Meals included: Breakfast

After purchase, you will receive a receipt and a Purchase Confirmation, directing you to an online Passenger Information Form. You must complete the Passenger Information Form within 72 hours of purchase.

Any special requests, preferences and optional extras MUST be clearly stated in your Passenger Information Form. Any change requested after submitting your Passenger Information Form cannot be guaranteed, is strictly subject to availability and will incur surcharges as outlined in the Schedule of Fees below.

On purchasing this Travel Offer, you are bound by the General Terms and Conditions and the specific terms and conditions outlined in this Important Information. 

Please note: All countries and territories have different entry requirements in relation to vaccinations, quarantine/isolation periods and travel restrictions. Due to the evolving nature, we would ask all of our customers to monitor, meet and adhere to the specific requirements of their intended destination(s) in the lead-up to and immediately before travel, as well as any requirements post-travel upon their return.

CANCELLATION POLICY
Tour packages are non-refundable. If your tour package is affected by Covid-19-related travel restrictions and you are unable to travel, you will receive either a free date change (credit that is specific to your original package and purchase value) or an open credit less any non-recoverable supplier fees to the value of your original purchase for use on any other tour or package available via the TripADeal website.

Please note: Date change credits are subject to availability and not guaranteed until confirmed by TripADeal, not the tour operator you are due to stay with.

We recommend you consider purchasing travel insurance with Covid-19 protection. The standard cancellation policy will apply if you cannot travel because you have tested positive for Covid-19.

Please note: All additional charges are payable in AUD (unless otherwise stated). 

This travel offer is valid for travel on selected dates until the 25th February 2026.

This travel offer is priced for 2 people based on a twin share.

Minimum group size 14, maximum group size 20 per vehicle.

Departure Dates 
2025
May: 12, 13, 14, 19, 20, 21, 26, 27, 28
October: 14*, 15*, 20*, 21*, 22*, 27*, 28*
November: 3*, 4*, 5*, 10^

2026
February: 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18, 23, 24, 25

Please note: See checkout for live dates and availability.

Surcharges
Please note: 
• Dates/months with a * incur a high season surcharge of $150 per person.
• Dates/months with a ^ incur a high season surcharge of $300 per person.

Single Traveller Supplement
For solo travellers, a full-price voucher must be purchased.

Child Policy
• No child discounts. The full price applies to all children travelling with their parents.
• Valid for children 12 years old and over.

Please note: Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult 18 years old and over to travel. No unaccompanied minors are allowed.

Departure Cities         
Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane*, Adelaide*, Perth or Auckland*

Departure City Surcharges
• Brisbane & Adelaide: $200 per person
• Auckland: $800 per person

International Flight(s)
• Cabin Class: Economy Class

Please note: We cannot accommodate one-way flights. Travellers must take all included flights within the package, and any flights intentionally forfeited will result in later flights being subject to cancellation. 

Preferred Airline Surcharge
• Cabin Class: Economy Class
• Singapore Airlines: $265 per person 

Please note: 
• Preferred airlines are subject to availability. If we are unable to fulfil your request, the above extra cost will be refunded.
• On any upgrade purchase, short-haul flights and domestic flight sectors are not guaranteed, subject to aircraft configuration.
• In the event that a purchased stopover package and a purchased preferred airline upgrade are not compatible, you will have the option to receive a refund for the preferred airline upgrade or be offered an alternative stopover city option, e.g if you choose to fly with Singapore Airlines you cannot stopover in Dubai.
• Preferred airline refers to the marketing carrier and could include codeshare partners. 

Arrive Early Options
Vientiane, Laos - $300 per person

Please note:
• This fee does not include extra nights' accommodation, meals or airport transfers.
• You may book a date to arrive early via our website but only a date that is within 30 days of the tour departure date. If you wish to arrive earlier than 30 days before your tour departure date, please call our friendly staff for availability and pricing. Additional costs may apply.
• No flight booking changes or cancellations are permitted after air tickets have been issued.
• Flight changes are subject to availability at the time of booking.
• A high season arrive early can be purchased for up to $500 per person, subject to availability.
• High season surcharges apply to flights departing between the below date ranges:
6th December 2024 - 31st January 2025
28th March 2025 - 27th April 2025
16th June 2025 - 20th July 2025
15th September 2025 - 12th October 2025
1st December 2025 - 31st January 2026
3rd April 2026 - 20th April 2026

Stay Behind Options
Vientiane, Laos - $300 per person

Please note:
• This fee does not include extra nights' accommodation, meals or airport transfers.
• A stay behind can only be booked up to one month after your package end date upon check-out. Should you wish to stay later, please contact us to request availability. Additional costs may apply.
• No flight booking changes or cancellations are permitted after air tickets have been issued.
• Flight changes are subject to availability at the time of booking.
• A high season stay behind can be purchased for up to $500 per person, subject to availability.
• High season surcharges apply to flights departing between the below date ranges:
6th December 2024 - 31st January 2025
28th March 2025 - 27th April 2025
16th June 2025 - 20th July 2025
15th September 2025 - 12th October 2025
1st December 2025 - 31st January 2026
3rd April 2026 - 20th April 2026

Stopover Packages 
• Singapore
• Bangkok, Thailand
Includes:
• 2, 3 or 5 nights in 4-star accommodation
• Daily breakfast
• Return airport transfers 
For pricing, please refer to the payment cart at checkout.

Please note: 
• When a pre and post-tour stopover is chosen, the same stopover location must be chosen each way, due to the airline used.
• When selecting an Arrive Early or Stay Behind in conjunction with a Stopover Package, the stopover will take place after the departure date you select for your Arrive Early or Stay Behind.
• Stopover packages are subject to availability.
• In the event that a purchased stopover package and a purchased preferred airline upgrade are not compatible, you will have the option to receive a refund for the preferred airline upgrade or be offered an alternative stopover city option, e.g if you choose to fly with Singapore Airlines you cannot stopover in Dubai.
• Blackout dates apply to flights departing between the below date ranges:
2nd October - 8th October 2025 (Singapore only)
22nd December 2025 - 2nd January 2026

Flight Class Upgrades
Business Class: For pricing, please refer to the payment cart at checkout.

Please note:
• Flight upgrades are subject to availability and pricing changes (if we cannot fulfil your request, the upgrade cost will be refunded).
• On any upgrade purchase, short-haul flights and domestic flight sectors are not guaranteed

Missed Flights  
If you fail to arrive for your outbound flight, you risk all flight and land arrangements in your destination being automatically cancelled by the airlines and land operator, respectively. Additional fees may apply to reinstate these services. If you miss your flight for whatever reason, please contact us as soon as possible to make arrangements. 

Accommodation Used
3-Star Properties in Laos (Self-Rated)
• Vientiane: Aaron Hotel or similar
• Vang Vieng: Confetti Garden Hotel or similar
• Luang Prabang: Vansana Luang Prabang Hotel or similar

Please note: Accommodation/rooms offered are based on a lead-in room type and are subject to availability based on seasonality. In the instance a property is not available, a similar standard of accommodation will be provided. Properties will be confirmed and included in your travel pack, which you will receive 4-6 weeks before travel.
 
Extra Nights
Not available. 
 
Maximum Room Capacity
2 people.
 
Triple Share
Not available. 

Bedding Configuration
Twin or double (subject to availability).

• Day 4: Optional Tour 1: Kayaking & Cave Exploration Adventure - $87 per person
• Day 4: Optional Tour 2: Cycle to Blue Lagoon & Local Villages - $96 per person
• Day 4: Optional Tour 3: Caves & Local Villages Trekking - $96 per person

Please note:
• Prices are based per person and are subject to availability, time permitting and weather conditions
• The optional tours listed above must be purchased on checkout or over the phone before submitting your passenger information form (subject to availability). 
• Some tours require minimum numbers to operate.

• Visa fees and requirements 
• Domestic transfers and flights not stated in the deal offer
• Meals/beverages not stated in the deal offer
• Optional gratuities/tipping 
• Optional activities/tours 
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Any costs associated with an interruption to your tour as a result of an airline schedule change or cancellation
• Any associated mandatory city tax

Land
Gratuities (tips) are not included for the services of the tour leader (when available) and driver throughout the tour. The recommended tip is $5 per person per day. This covers the guide/leader and the driver and will be collected on tour. 

Please note: Tipping for services provided is always a matter of personal discretion; however, please be aware that many locals consider tipping part of their normal remuneration, and they may approach you for payment; there's no need to be intimidated by the request.

TOUR GUIDE VS. TOUR LEADER
Tour Guide
Often locals with intimate knowledge of an area, its culture, and history. Their role entails providing commentary, routing the tour, and seeing that people have a good time. They are a licensed, qualified expert who supplies specific information on the history, art, architecture and culture of the city/village/attraction where they are guiding the tour. The guide meets the group at the required place and leaves it at the end of the tour; they do not travel with the group. 

Tour Leader
An experienced person tasked with ensuring the smooth operation of tours, as well as providing practical support to passengers throughout the whole trip. Their role primarily includes assisting with accommodation, transportation between locations, and communication with tour guides at each stop. A tour leader may provide general guidance around a city or village and offer information on the place visited on the bus. However, they are not required to have specific art, architecture, or historical knowledge. They are not allowed to provide a guided tour or commentary of a city/village/attraction once there and, if caught doing so, can be fined. 

Please note: Tour leaders/guides are not a standard inclusion in all travel offers. Tour leaders/guides will only be made available when required to enhance the experience of the destination featured. 

CLIMATE & AVERAGE TEMPERATURES
Laos has a tropical monsoon climate with three distinct seasons.
• The dry season, from November to April, features cooler temperatures and lower humidity, making it the most popular time to visit, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C. 
• The hot season, between March and May, brings high temperatures above 35°C and high humidity, creating very hot conditions, particularly in the central and southern regions. 
• The rainy season, from May to October, is characterised by heavy, frequent rainfall and high humidity, with temperatures between 25°C and 35°C. Rainfall usually comes in short, intense bursts, and flooding can occur in low-lying areas. Overall, Laos experiences generally warm and humid conditions throughout the year, with variations depending on the season.

FLIGHTS
Seat Selection & Frequent Flyer Points
We do not arrange seat selection. It is essential to highlight that some airlines do not allow pre-selected seats. We strongly suggest you contact the airline directly with seating allocation requirements and/or arrive at the airport earlier to arrange your seating. While we do not add frequent flyer member details to bookings, you can do this directly with the airline once you have your flight information.

Passport Validity
Customers must provide valid passport details either at the time of purchase or no later than 45 days before the departure date. Failure to do so may result in the cancellation of the booking. Customers will be responsible for any costs and fees incurred in this instance.

COACH TOUR
Meals
For meals not included, the tour leader (when available) will offer assistance with reservations, suggestions and directions to local restaurants. It is your responsibility to notify us of any dietary requests/requirements. 

Please note: We will do our best to meet your requests/requirements; however, we cannot guarantee that we will always be able to.

Luggage
You will be responsible for all your personal belongings whilst on tour. You must carry your own luggage from the vehicle to the hotel room and back to the vehicle. The driver will assist with the uploading and unloading of bags from the vehicle.

OTHER
Mobility
If you require wheelchair access please contact our friendly sales and service team to inquire on your behalf.

Fitness Level Required
A moderate level of fitness will be required. Expect a moderate pace of touring with a focus on guided tours that may include full days with extended activity, guided city tours or nature walks. You will require a general level of fitness for unassisted navigation of stairs and inclines, longer distances with possible periods of standing when visiting sites, walking on sloping, uneven ground or elevations. You will be responsible for your own luggage and have the ability to board all modes of transport without assistance. Please note: Many areas may be inaccessible to wheelchairs or mobility scooters, where the unassisted use of personal walking sticks and other aids may be required. Although some assistance may be available, every traveller should be self-reliant during all aspects of their travel.

Please note:
• It is expected that every traveller be self-reliant and able to undertake all aspects of their own travel. Please speak to your booking agent about your personal circumstances and any assistance requirements to ensure this tour is right for you.
• If you have any concerns, please consult your healthcare provider prior to purchase/travel.

Sightseeing
Please note: If entry to a site is affected by changes in operating hours or public holiday closures, your itinerary, where possible, may be adjusted, or a similar activity will be offered in its place (subject to availability).

Shopping
Shopping overseas can be a daunting and confusing experience, especially when there is a language barrier. Please be very cautious when foreign currencies and prices are involved. If paying by credit card, please pay close attention to the amount you are being charged and keep all your receipts. Do not make any purchases you are not comfortable with or feel pressured into. If you are uncertain or need assistance with the language barrier, please seek assistance from your Tour Guide/Leader. Please refer to our Terms and Conditions regarding shopping for further information.

You can obtain tourist visas (for 30 days) either on arrival or through an e-visa, for a fee. Tourist visas are available on arrival at Vientiane and Luang Prabang International Airports. To process a visa-on-arrival, please ensure you have the following:
• A passport with at least 6 months validity
• 2 blank pages in your passport for entry and exit stamps
• A passport photograph (digital or hardcopy) sized 4x6 cm
• $40 USD for visa processing
Important: 
• Please start arranging your visa three weeks before departure to account for any delays due to consulate operating hours.
• Visa rules are subject to change. Please check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination/s you are visiting once you receive your travel documentation to ensure you have the most up to date information.
• It is your responsibility to be travel-ready and ensure that you are aware and comply with any destination or travel requirements, including the validity of all required travel documents.
• Passengers who are not Australian citizens must also check with the respective consulate or visa agency to determine what their visa requirements are and what personal identification is required.
• It is also important to note that some areas of employment, such as journalism, government authorities and charity organisations, may have additional restrictions in applying for visas. This may, in turn, affect the type of application required.

Voluntary Changes
This includes booking changes requested by you, including but not limited to those changes requiring an airline ticket or a Purchase Confirmation reissue.
• Changes - $100 AUD per booking and any additional charges applied by the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers.

Name Changes Due To Passenger Error
• If the incorrect name has been provided, charges of $100 AUD per booking and any additional charges applied by the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers.

Supplier Fees
In the event the tour package you have purchased is unable to proceed, and/or a travel Supplier is unable to fulfil the tour due to external circumstances (Limitation of Liability e.g. a Force Majeure event), there may be a fee or amount of money that is withheld by our Suppliers and is unrecoverable. This may be due to non-refundable airline tickets, cancellation penalties with cruise cabins or unrecoverable payments with our land/accommodation partners. If refunds are not available from Suppliers, we will endeavour to obtain a travel credit on the best terms available and communicate these outcomes to you. In the event we are unable to obtain a refund or travel service credit, or part thereof, this cost is passed on to the customer as a Supplier Fee.