Cambodia & Laos

ITINERARY DETAILS

day 1Arrive in Siem Reap where you will be met by your expert ABOUTAsia guide and transferred to your hotel. This afternoon enjoy your first taste of Angkor with a visit to Banteay Kdei temple followed by sunset drinks on the moat of Angkor Thom, a world away from the tourist crowds.

day 2A single, magical day at the temples following our well researched crowd avoidance itinerary, including Ta Prohm of ‘Tomb Raider’ fame, Angkor Thom: Terrace of the Elephants, Terrace of the Leper King, Preah Palilay, Phimeanakas, Baphuon, and the Bayon with its captivating stone faces. During your tour enjoy a wonderful tuk tuk breakfast in the secluded forest temple of Ta Nei. (B)

day 3Motor through the darkness of pre-dawn to see the sunrise over Angkor Wat as we guide you to the best photo vantage points. Explore the temple in the hours immediately after sunrise when the temple is at its quietest. This afternoon take a journey of discovery by boat, and on foot to visit villages little changed since the days of Jayavarman VII. End the day with a cocktail at ABOUTAsia´s country villa, Chandara overlooking the paddy fields with the option of adding on dinner. (B)

day 4Take a private boat onto the Tonle Sap lake, the richest freshwater fishing ground in the world, to visit one of the authentic stilted villages (either Kompong Kleang or Kompong Phluk depending on water levels). A picnic lunch is included. In the afternoon head into the countryside to jungle-clad Beng Mealea temple which, in a much collapsed state, retains a very atmospheric feel. (B, L)

day 5Explore local markets for souvenir shopping or Psa Leu for a local shopping experience. Roam narrow lanes selling an array of exotic edibles, including snakes, spiders and dried bugs. Then visit Artisans d´Angkor, for excellent quality sandstone, silver, wood, and silk products. Fly to Phnom Penh and take an evening private sunset cruise on the Mekong. (B)

day 6This morning we endeavor to provide some insights into Cambodia’s recent tragic history under the Khmer Rouge with visits to the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng (S-21) Prison. In the afternoon take in the shimmering spires of the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda. (B)

day 7Fly to Vientiane, capital of the People's Democratic Republic of Laos. Depending on your flight schedule it may be possible to visit Phnom Penh´s markets before you depart. (B)

day 8Spend the morning exploring some of the wats and pagodas of ancient Vientiane, including Wat Si Saket and Haw Phra Keo. Also visit the national icon, the Phra That Luang stupa and Patuxai, the Lao “Arc de Triomphe”. In the afternoon visit Xieng Khuan the ‘Buddha Park’ replete with many bizarre Hindu and Buddhist statues. (B)

day 9Fly to beautiful Luang Prabang, situated by the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers. After a short orientation of the town enjoy a ‘Baci’ welcome ceremony and traditional Lao style dinner. Depending on your flight schedule it may be possible to visit the Vientiane morning market, Talat Sao before your departure. (B, D)

day 10An early start to see one of the most arresting sights in Asia: the monks of Luang Prabang receiving alms. After breakfast explore the magical old town with its many temples, including the wonderful Wat Xieng Thong. This afternoon visit Khouangsi Waterfalls perhaps taking the opportunity for a swim in the pools below the falls. (B)

day 11Journey up the mighty Mekong river on a long tail boat visiting the Pak Ou caves and riverside villages where you will see hand woven textiles, jute paper and the local rice wine, lao lao, being produced. Later in the afternoon climb Mount Phou Si for panoramic views of Luang Prabang. (B)

day 12 Encounter the Asian Elephant today on the banks of the Nam Khan river. A completely non-riding elephant experience, today is an interactive and memorable day.

Enjoy an easy 2-hour trek through quintessential Lao countryside, and up a small creek, scrubbing the elephants down using natural materials found in the jungle. Walking alongside the animals, you will pass through jungle and rivers, and sense their pure joy at being in the water. Your guide will explain new handling techniques that the sanctuary hope will be adopted throughout the region. After the walk, relax on the balcony with lunch, and enjoy the view over the river and hills before your short journey back to Luang Prabang. (B, L)

day 13After a busy holiday relax until your transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)