Get back to nature with a short escape in northern Laos. Venture in to the mountains to meet with Hmong and Ahka hill tribes, getting a glimpse of their traditional culture. Then cruise down the Nam Ou River to Nong Khiaw, enjoying after mile of verdant, unspoiled landscapes.
Itinerary
📍 Luang Prabang hotel - train station (12km): 20 min / Train journey: 60 mins / Oudomxai - Nam Kat Yorla Paa (18.6 km): 40 to 45 mins
Begin the journey north with a high-speed train departure from Luang Prabang, heading towards the remote province of Oudomxay. This northern region of Laos is known for its verdant mountains, rice paddies, and areas of thick jungle. Various ethnic villages will be encountered during the journey, some of which sit precariously perched on steep mountainsides, while others sit in valleys carved out by ancient rivers.
Pass through the provincial capital of Oudomxay. Once a sleepy town, Oudomxay has become an important trading hub, reflecting the rapid changes happening in the region. This bustling town makes the final leg of the journey (a stark contrast of jungles and wilderness) all the more exciting.
Arrive at Nam Kat Yorla Paa in the late afternoon. Check in, relax, and enjoy the views. Facilities include a spa, sauna, and steam room (evenings get cold November – March). The resort is built next to a natural hot spring, and staff fills a small pool every evening with water from the spring. In the evening, enjoy a BBQ Dinner at the hotel.
Note: Evenings can get cold, particularly between November-March. Guests are asked to pack accordingly.
Overnight in Oudomxay
Inclusions:
🥘 Lunch, 🍗 Dinner
Day two is a full day of walking in and around nearby villages; no real “trekking” is required.
In order to traverse the steep mountain trails that provide access to the most untouched villages of the region, 4X4 vehicles will be arranged for transport. Special markets or festivals are often held in the region, so inquire ahead of time to plan accordingly.
Set off after breakfast for a visit to the entirely isolated village of Ikho (home to the Akha people.) An ethnic group originating from Tibet and Yunnan, these villagers have seen very few foreigners, so the atmosphere will be noticeably different from other (more visited) ethnic villages. The guide will happily explain daily life amongst the villagers and how they still follow ancient customs passed down through the centuries.
At 1,000 meters above sea level overlooking amazing views, this village provides the perfect spot to settle down for an outdoor picnic lunch.
After lunch, head out of Ikho for an approximate 45-minute walk to the Hmong village of Ban Tauser. The remote route taken to access the village offers beautiful scenery, culminating with a stunning 360° panorama. During this visit, learn all about the history of the Hmong (whose origins reach back to the high steppes of Tibet), their daily way of life, and the great importance of their livestock.
After a full day of exploring, return to the resort. Dinner at Namkat Yolapa.
Overnight in Oudomxay
Inclusions:
☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch, 🍗 Dinner
📍 Muang La – Muang Khua (76 km): 3 hours / Muang Khua Muang La – Nong Khiaw (105 km): 5 hours
After breakfast, drive for approximately 3 hours to Muang Khua, a small town on the banks of the Nam Ou River. Board a private, long-tail boat for a cruise down one of the most scenic stretches of river in Laos. When compared to the Mekong, the Nam Ou is thought to be more dramatic and wild, with considerably less traffic. Enjoy a picnic lunch at a local restaurant along the way, soaking in the various villages that slowly pass downstream.
Nong Khiaw is the day’s final destination, famous for its dramatic limestone mountains. Reach the area by late afternoon, disembarking, and checking into the accommodation along the banks of the Nam Ou River.
Enjoy some down time topped with a breathtaking sunset from the room’s balcony.
Note: The journey may require the use of two boats with a short 2km transfer in between as the Nam Ou 3 dam is being finished.
Overnight in Nong Khiaw
Inclusions:
☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch
📍 Nong Khiaw - Luang Prabang (134 km): 2.5 hours
After a final breakfast along the river, enjoy the scenic 2.5 hour ride from Nong Khiaw to Luang Prabang.
Arrive in Luang Prabang with the remainder of the day open to leisure.
Inclusions:
☕ Breakfast
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