Overview
Read 2 reviews and enjoy exclusive savings on G Adventures 9 Day Laos: Sunrises & Street Food. Now's the time for adventure on your terms with this tour of Laos that's affordable for young travellers. Explore countryside caves by bike in Vang Vieng, go back in time in the ancient city of Luang Prabang, and watch local life unfold on the Mekong on a dreamy sunset cruise. It's some of the best of Southeast Asia, all in one place. Take it all on with new friends, new places, and new must-sees and -dos to share back home.
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Our Price From
US$664 per person
Price shown based on twin share
Save up to $285 per person
Operator
G Adventures
2 Trip Reviews
Avg. Rating: 4.5/5
Trip Style
18-to-Thirtysomethings
Budget
Affordable
Age Range
18-39 Years
Max. Group Size
18
Pace
Leisurely
Guide Style
Fully Guided
Tour Code
ALVC
Itinerary
Arrive at any time and welcome to Vientiane, Laos' laid-back capital. After meeting your CEO and fellow travellers this evening, wander through the bustling night market along the Mekong River. Pick up a street beer or tea as you browse through the stalls of souvenirs and local delicacies. Follow your CEO to grab the best street food — or, you know, follow your nose.
Accommodation:
Vientiane Garden Boutique Hotel
Included Experiences
- Connect With New Friends: Connect with new friends on your first night out in a new destination. Only available on 18-to-Thirtysomethings tours.
- Meet Your CEO and Group: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Optional Experiences
- Wat Pha That Luang Visit: See Laos’ national symbol and most important sacred monument, Pha That Luang (Great Stupa), completely covered in gold leaf. Every November, devoted Buddhists come here to celebrate Vientiane’s most important festival, Bun That Luang, with parades, music, and religious ceremonies.
Travel to Vang Vieng, a small town nestled among striking limestone karsts and the Song River. Take a guided hike to a famous local view point for incredible views of the valley — no filter necessary. This evening, enjoy a night out to celebrate new adventures with new friends. Cheers to keeping life exciting!
Accommodation:
Thavisouk Riverside Hotel
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Vang Vieng Guided Hike: Set off on a guided hike to Pha Ngeun, the highest viewpoint in Vang Vieng. Enjoy beautiful views of the valley below, surrounded by rice paddies.
- Vang Vieng Nightlife: Follow your CEO to the best bar in town to celebrate new adventures with newfound friends. Enjoy a night out and immerse yourself in the Vang Vieng nightlife. Try your hand at some games, enjoy the music, and dance the night away.
Get the most out of Vang Vieng with a day to freely explore. Check out the caves by bicycle or trek through the countryside. Choose to kayak through Tham None cave and venture to the Blue Lagoon by booking the adrenaline bundle.
Accommodation:
Thavisouk Riverside Hotel
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Free Time: Set off and explore the beautiful Vang Vieng area, or relax to your heart's content.
Optional Experiences
- Hiking: Set off along the banks of the river to explore nearby caves, countryside and meet local villagers to find out more about their way of life.
- Bike Rental: Rent a bike and explore the countryside.
- Vang Vieng Adrenaline Bundle: Head North of Vang Vieng where you’ll grab a kayak and depart downstream on the NamSong river. Passing greenery, mountain karst, and small rapids, you’ll arrive at the Tham None cave. Adventure through the cave to the other side of the mountain where you will enjoy lunch before continuing on towards Vang Vieng. The last stop will be at the infamous Blue Lagoon; swim or hang out along the banks after an afternoon of adventure before heading back to the town.
- Kayaking: Explore the stunning landscape of Vang Vieng by kayak, a great way to see the caves and wildlife in the area.
- Caving: Explore some of the many caves in the area. Some have lagoons for tubing in the dark or smooth terrain perfect for walking through. Ask your CEO for recommendations on which cave to visit for the best time.
Continue to colourful Luang Prabang and make your first acquaintance with this ancient city during an afternoon orientation walk. Afterward, embark on a short trek up sacred Mount Phousi, climbing the stone stairs with scaly golden handrails, past the monks quarters and Buddha's footprint cave, to reach the temple at the top - Wat Phousi. Enjoy a 360-degree view of the sun setting upon Luang Prabang and the Mekong River before an evening street food crawl.
Accommodation:
Flora by Sanakeo Hotel
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Sunset at Wat Phousi: Watch the sunset from Luang Prabang's number one hilltop temple, Wat Phousi, with a 360-degree view of the city and Mekong River.
- Street Food Crawl: Bring your appetite and your wallet. The CEO will bring the group to the best spots to eat and teach everyone about the local street food. Yum!
- Bullet Train: Get to your next destination faster than the speed of light (ok maybe not that fast) aboard a high-speed train.
- Orientation With CEO: Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.
Skip sleeping in to watch the monks walk through town before dawn. Dressed in saffron robes, they receive daily alms from local residents. Then, visit the Kuang Si waterfalls on a guided excursion before free time in the evening. Traditional Laotian culture involves giving daily alms to monks. Monks are only allowed to eat food which has been donated to them before noon. Should you rise early, you’ll get to watch one of the most important religious ceremonies in Laos.
Accommodation:
Flora by Sanakeo Hotel
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Kuang Si Waterfalls Excursion: Journey to this magnificent tiered waterfall, where relaxing is highly recommended. Opt for a dip in the turquoise waters and explore multiple picture-perfect pools, framed by the jungle landscape.
- Free Time: From witnessing the giving of alms in town to exploring the countryside, Luang Prabang has something for everyone. Get out and explore!
Optional Experiences
- Phousi Temple Visit: Climb more than 300 steps to the top of Mount Phou Si for a panoramic view of the sunset over Luang Prabang. Ornate Buddhist shrines dot the pathway up and the glistening seven-tiered golden pagoda of Wat Chom Si awaits at the summit.
- Royal Palace Museum Visit: The ornate rooms of this royal palace-turned-museum house the country’s crown jewels, many religious artifacts, and a 50kg (110 lb) Buddha, cast of gold, silver and bronze. Gifts from visiting heads of state are on display, as are the beautiful silk screens crafted by the Queen.
- Wat Xien Thong Visit: Once a royal temple where Kings were crowned, the importance of this 16th-century Buddhist temple as a religious monastery is not lost on visitors. Wat Xieng Thong stands resplendent among shrines, pavilions, chapels, towers and gardens, and its gilded wooden doors, mosaics, and ceiling displays are representative of typical Laos art and craft.
- Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre Entry: Take an independent tour of the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre (TAEC) to learn about the traditional arts and cultures of Laos’s many diverse ethnic groups. Shop in the TAEC Boutique for authentic village-made handicrafts and relax with a drink at the museum café.
- Wat Visoun Temples Visit: Originally built in 1513 and still operational, Wat Visoun is Luang Prabang’s oldest temple. Over the years invaders stole many of its priceless Buddha images, but this temple still offers some unusual architecture like the domed lotus flower stupa, designed by a royal and affectionately called "The Watermelon Stupa."
- Cooking Class: Enjoy the sights and smells of fresh produce, local spices and exotic ingredients and learn the secrets of Laotian cuisine.
- Ock Pop Tok Living Crafts Centre Visit: Visit Ock Pop Tok "East Meets West" Living Crafts Centre on the banks of the Mekong River to learn from artisans about Laos handicrafts and the importance of woven textiles in Laos culture. Wander around the grounds for free, for opt to enjoy a drink in the cafe, join a workshop, or take an audio tour.
- Alms-giving in Luang Prabang: Rise early and watch the daily dawn ceremony of saffron-robed monks walking through town to receive alms from local residents. Residents prepare food for the monks to subsist on. Seeing this custom is a beautiful way to gain some insight into the local culture and Buddhist religion. Please be respectful and quietly observe.
The Mekong never looked so welcoming. Board a long, cozy houseboat that will take you on a two-day journey up the Mekong River en route to Chiang Khong in Thailand. Today, cruise to a village homestay for the night, where you will enjoy dinner with your hosts, experience a traditional Khamu Cultural Performance, and dance with the locals.
Accommodation:
Ban Huay Thum Homestay
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Mekong River Slow Boat: Enjoy the ride down the Mekong River on our private boat (it’s pretty comfortable and spacious, and there’s a toilet on board). Have some fruit, tea, and coffee (free of charge); water and soft drinks are available for purchase.
- Mekong River Homestay & Traditional Performance: G Adventures and the Planeterra Foundation have worked with a community in the Mekong River to help develop their homestay programs, providing a unique cultural experience for travellers and the local community. Here you have the chance to stay overnight in a Mekong village to get a glimpse into rural daily life. Enjoy dinner with your hosts. Experience a traditional Khamu Cultural Performance, and enjoy the chance to dance with the locals.
New day, same magnificent Mekong. Today’s your second travel day, where you’ll cross into Thailand arriving in Chiang Khong by the later afternoon. Sit back, relax, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, and enjoy the scenic ride.
Accommodation:
Namkhong Guesthouse
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch
Included Experiences
- Mekong River Slow Boat: Enjoy the ride down the Mekong on our private boat (it’s pretty comfortable and spacious, and there’s a toilet on board). Have some fruit, tea, and coffee (free of charge); water and soft drinks are available for purchase.
- Border Crossing (Laos - Thailand): Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.
Take in the rolling countryside views on the drive to Chiang Mai nestled alongside Thailand's northern mountains. Spend the afternoon getting to know this peaceful city known for traditional markets and glorious temples. Choose to visit Doi Suthep, catch a Thai boxing match, cycle around, or grab a bargain at the famous night market.
Accommodation:
Chiang Mai Gate Hotel
Included Experiences
- Free Time: Get out and explore this bustling city in northern Thailand.
Optional Experiences
- Massage: Lay back and soothe aching muscles with a famous local massage. Affordable and amazing, don't miss out.
- Doi Suthep Temple Visit: Visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a golden Buddhist temple outside of Chiang Mai on the Mt Doi Suthep. Climb 300 steps to reach the temple and be rewarded with an unforgettable view. Admire the many Buddhist relics at this sacred temple and visit the white elephant shrine. Legend has it that the location of the temple was chosen after a white elephant carried a relic to the mountain and trumpeted three times before dying on the spot. Also, with a little luck, you may witness the chanting of the monks.
- Chiang Mai Cycling Tour: This Chiang Mai half-day ride takes you on a memorable tour of the countryside's most interesting sights. You'll go beyond the city to see local Buddhist temples, markets, organic farms, rice paddy fields and more. Get a sense of how the locals live, stop when you want for photos, and check out the nature along the city's main river, the Ping.
- Northern Thai Cooking Class: Channel your inner chef with a home-style Thai cooking class. Take a trip to the market with your teacher and learn about regional flavours as you pick out fresh ingredients. Head back to the cozy kitchen for a hands-on lesson in whipping up delicious local favourites like hot and sour soup, green curry, and sticky rice.
- Street Food Walk at Chiang Mai Night Market: Pick up a a souvenir at this shopper's paradise. Wander through the market to find music, food, and local artists selling handmade crafts.
- Khantoke Dinner and Show: Enjoy dinner northern Khantok style, with local entertainment. The main dishes on the Khantok usually include sticky rice, Hang-le curry (Burmese-styled curry), and some chilli pasted with crispy pork.
Today, it’s time to say goodbye to your group of newfound friends. Be sure to sneak in some last-minute photos and exchange social medias before you head on your way. Depart at any time.
Trip Inclusions
- Hike the limestone karsts of Vang Vieng.
- Discover the serenity of Luang Prabang on a sunset trek to Wat Phousi.
- Visit to Kuang Si Waterfalls.
- Float on the mighty Mekong.
- Experience the beauty of scenic northern Thailand.
- Big night out in Vang Vieng nightlife.
- Your G for Good Moment: Mekong River Homestay & Traditional Performance, Muang Pakbèng
- Your First Night Out Moment: Connect With New Friends
- Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group
- Your Big Night Out Moment: Vang Vieng Nightlife, Vang Vieng
- Your Discover Moment: Luang Prabang
- Guided hike in Vang Vieng
- Slow boat up the Mekong
- Orientation walk, sunset trek to Wat Phousi, Kuang Si Waterfalls excursion and street food crawl in Luang Prabang
- All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
- Local bus, air-con bus, slow boat, songthaew, tuk-tuk, walking
- CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout
- Simple Hotels (twin-share) (7 Nights) And Homestay (1 Night)
- A variety of styles of hotels/guest houses are used on this trip. In many instances they might not be like what you are used to back home as service and efficiency can vary. In some areas we stay in simple local guest houses in stunning locations - rooms are small and simple and there may only be shared toilet facilities and showers.
- Accommodation will be varied throughout your adventure. Some nights on this tour will be multi-share. This may involve 4-6 group members sharing a room. The majority of accommodation will have shared bathroom facilities.
- Mekong River Homestay: Typically, the group is divided into two or more houses (depending on group size) in close proximity to each other. Sleeping arrangements are multi-share in the central living area of the homes – mattresses, blankets, pillows, and mosquito nets are provided. Bathroom facilities are shared.
- Where we use multi-share hostels, rooming requests of any kind cannot be taken. For private accommodation please see our Classic Travel Style.
- 6 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner
- Accommodation, itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included.
Operator
G Adventures came from a desire to deliver authentic and responsible small group travel adventures that were equally life-changing for travellers and the communities they visit. And we’re been doing just that for almost 30 years. Our award-winning trips span seven continents and over 100 countries, giving you meaningful more experiences with people, cultures, landscapes and wildlife, as well as offering you the freedom and flexibility to explore on your own.
On all of our tours, you get to know locals every step of the way, from the places you visit and stay to where you eat and drink. You’ll also get to experience our ‘G for Good’ social impact initiatives on-trip, including our industry-leading ‘Ripple Score’. This score measures, as a percentage, the amount of money that stays in the local community through on-trip services like accommodation, restaurants and transport.
On all of our tours, you get to know locals every step of the way, from the places you visit and stay to where you eat and drink. You’ll also get to experience our ‘G for Good’ social impact initiatives on-trip, including our industry-leading ‘Ripple Score’. This score measures, as a percentage, the amount of money that stays in the local community through on-trip services like accommodation, restaurants and transport.
Trip Style: 18-to-Thirtysomethings
Built for young travelers ready to break free from the everyday grind, these trips bring together a safe and supportive group of like-minded people in their twenties and early thirties.
Connect on the First Night Out, explore with a Chief Experience Officer (CEO), enjoy free time, and celebrate unforgettable moments with new friends - without breaking the bank. Travel confidently, respectfully, and affordably.
Trip Reviews (2)
Laos: Sunrises & Street Food 0
Amelia, VIC, Australia, Jan 2025
The tour was a great way to see Laos quickly. I especially loved the homestay night on the slow boat and wish that we could have spent more time with the community. Nak was an amazing CEO who helped us all in any way he could and created a welcoming, warm and lively environment.
Great taste of a beautiful country 2
Michelle & Sean, NSW, Australia, Feb 2020
Laos was unexpectedly surprising and we were very impressed with this tour. The people are very laid back and Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang are both incredible places. Great tour overall and Georgie was fantastic as always. Highly recommend.
Dates & Pricing
USD
Sunday
26 Apr 2026
26 Apr 26
Vientiane
Monday
04 May 2026
04 May 26
Chiang Mai
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$949
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sold Out
Tuesday
28 Apr 2026
28 Apr 26
Vientiane
Wednesday
06 May 2026
06 May 26
Chiang Mai
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$949
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sold Out
Thursday
30 Apr 2026
30 Apr 26
Vientiane
Friday
08 May 2026
08 May 26
Chiang Mai
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$949
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sold Out
Note
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Inquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Inquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by G Adventures. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by G Adventures. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
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