Laos & Bangkok
25 Oct –
9 Nov 2026
- 16 Days
- Boutique Accommodations
- 27 Meals
- Group size: 15
NEW TOUR
A cultured passage through river and realm.
Itinerary
South Africa to the East
Your journey begins with an overnight international flight departing from Johannesburg. As you leave the continent behind, use the time to rest and shift gears. The anticipation is part of the travel experience, and the tropics await.
A Quiet Welcome
We arrive in Vientiane around midday. Unlike the frenetic energy of other Asian capitals, Vientiane has the soul of a large, leafy village. French colonial villas sit alongside glittering temples, and the atmosphere is refreshingly laid-back. You will be met by our local guide and transferred to your hotel to freshen up. The rest of the afternoon is yours to settle in. We recommend a walk along the Mekong riverfront at sunset, where locals gather for aerobics and evening gossip. Tonight, we host a relaxed welcome dinner to introduce you to the flavours of the region.
Spirituality and Home Cooking
We begin the day by exploring the city’s heritage. We visit Wat Sisaket, the only temple to survive the Siamese invasion of 1828. Here thousands of Buddha statues rest in quiet alcoves. We continue to the golden fortress of Pha That Luang, a symbol of Lao national pride, and the Patuxai monument, which echoes the Arc de Triomphe but is decorated with mythological kinnari figures.
The afternoon brings a change of pace as we visit a local family home for a private cooking experience. This is not a commercial demonstration but a genuine look at domestic life. You will learn to prepare dishes like mok pa (steamed fish in banana leaf) or a proper papaya salad, cooking over an open fire before sitting down to share the feast with your hosts. It is a warm, unforced insight into local hospitality.
The High-Speed Journey
This morning we board the Lane Xang high-speed train, a modern marvel that cuts through the countryside to Vang Vieng. The scenery shifts dramatically as we approach, with flat plains giving way to jagged limestone karsts that rise vertically from the emerald rice paddies like dragon’s teeth. We have chosen a riverside resort away from the busy town centre, ensuring peace and quiet. The afternoon is open for you to visit a nearby tea plantation or take a boat up the Nam Song River to watch the cliffs turn golden in the late afternoon light. It is a landscape that feels like a traditional Chinese painting come to life.
Into the Northern Highlands
We continue our journey north by train, heading deeper into the uplands of Oudomxai. The air here is cooler, the vegetation denser, and the atmosphere far removed from the standard tourist trail. This is the wilder side of Laos, home to diverse ethnic groups who maintain their distinct languages and customs. We arrive at our resort, which is nestled comfortably into the forest and designed to blend with the environment. The afternoon is unstructured, allowing you time to hike, swim, or simply relax on your balcony with a book and enjoy the sounds of the jungle.
Communities in the Clouds
Today is an adventure into the heart of the north. We travel by off-road vehicle up to 1,000 metres above sea level to visit isolated Ikhos and Hmong villages. These communities are animist, believing in the spirits of the land, and you may see the traditional “spirit gates” that guard the village entrances. Our visit is one of observation and respect rather than performance. We learn about their agriculture and daily lives before enjoying a picnic lunch in the open air, surrounded by panoramic mountain views. It is a humbling day that offers a perspective on a completely different way of life.
The River Expedition
After a scenic drive to the river town of Muang Khua, we board a private boat for a spectacular journey down the Nam Ou River. This is one of the most dramatic routes in Southeast Asia. Massive limestone cliffs loom over the water, and we pass small villages accessible only by boat. It is a meditative afternoon that feels like traveling through a different era. We arrive in Nong Khiau by late afternoon. For those with energy, a hike to the viewpoint offers a stunning sunset, though a gin and tonic by the river is an equally worthy option to watch the day fade.
The Jewel of Laos
We drive south to Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage site and arguably one of the most enchanting cities in Asia. It is sophisticated, historic, and utterly beautiful, with a blend of wooden Lao houses and French colonial architecture. After checking in, the evening is yours. We highly recommend a stroll through the famous night market. It is quiet, dimly lit, and filled with high-quality handmade textiles and silver. There is no hard selling here, just quiet smiles and incredible craftsmanship.
Gilded Temples and Turquoise Pools
Luang Prabang is best explored slowly. We spend the morning visiting the former Royal Palace to see the Prabang Buddha, the city’s namesake. We then visit the most beautiful of temples, Wat Xieng Thong, famous for its sweeping low roofs and the intricate “Tree of Life” glass mosaic on its rear wall.
After lunch, we drive out to the Kuang Si Falls. The water flows over limestone tiers and settles into pools of vibrant turquoise. It is the perfect spot to cool off or simply admire the view. On the return journey, we stop at the Free the Bears sanctuary. Operated by a dedicated non-profit, this sanctuary provides a protected, semi-wild home for Asiatic Black Bears rescued from the illegal wildlife trade, focusing entirely on their rehabilitation and welfare rather than public entertainment.
Artisans and the Mekong
We begin at Ock Pop Tok, a centre dedicated to preserving the art of Lao weaving. You will meet the weavers, see the intricate process, and try your hand at dyeing silk to create a personal souvenir. Later, we visit a small riverside village for a Baci ceremony. This traditional blessing involves tying white cotton threads around the wrist to bind the “32 spirits” (kwan) to the body, bringing luck and health. It is a touching moment of connection. We return to the city by private boat, cruising down the Mekong as the sun sets behind the mountains.
Reflections and Farewells
For the early risers, the morning almsgiving (Tak Bat) is a sight to behold. Hundreds of monks move silently through the dawn mist to collect offerings of sticky rice, a ritual that defines the spiritual life of the city. We deliberately steer clear of the commercialized main thoroughfare, taking you instead to a quiet side street where the ritual is still authentic and can be observed with the dignity and silence it deserves.
The rest of the day is free for you to explore the French cafes, galleries, and antique shops at your own pace. In the evening, we gather for a farewell dinner in a restored teak house. We have selected a menu that blends French culinary techniques with Lao ingredients, a fitting celebration of the history and flavours we have experienced together.
From the Mountains to the River
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before we transfer to the airport. We bid farewell to the quiet charm of Laos and fly to Bangkok for the final leg of our journey. Upon arrival, you will be met by our local guide and transferred by private coach to our hotel on the riverfront.
We have selected The Salil Hotel Riverside, a sophisticated sanctuary that blends classical elegance with a resort-like atmosphere. After checking in, you may wish to enjoy your complimentary Aqua Therapy session in the hotel’s specialized pool—a perfect way to refresh after your travels. The evening is yours to enjoy a sundowner overlooking the river or explore the hotel’s curated dining spaces.
The Venice of the East and the Silk King
One of the best ways to understand Bangkok’s soul is from the water. We board a private longtail boat to explore the klongs (canals) of Thonburi. Here, life slows down; wooden homes on stilts are draped in bougainvillea, and small family businesses operate just as they have for a century. We stop at the Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun), marvelling at its porcelain-studded spire before returning to the city centre.
For lunch, at your own cost, we transition from the river to the gardens of Jim Thompson’s House. This architectural gem, composed of six traditional teak houses, holds an exquisite collection of Southeast Asian art and tells the mysterious story of the man who revitalised the Thai silk industry.
The afternoon is free for you to explore the riverside boutiques or enjoy the hotel’s facilities.
We head out of the city early this morning to experience the Tha Kha Floating Market. Unlike the more famous tourist markets, Tha Kha remains a genuine local hub. We board small rowboats to glide past vendors selling ripe mangoes, juicy pineapples, and sweet coconuts. We also visit a traditional coconut sugar plantation at a local family home to see how this Thai staple is produced over open wood fires.
We return to the hotel for a restful afternoon. In the evening, we gather for our grand finale: the Manohra Dinner Cruise. We board a beautifully restored antique rice barge for a two-hour voyage along the river. As we dine on fine Thai cuisine, we pass the Grand Palace and the city’s illuminated landmarks, offering a glowing, old-world splendour that serves as a fitting farewell to the East.
Reflections and Late Farewells
Your final day in Bangkok is at leisure. We have secured a guaranteed late check-out for all rooms. This allows you to enjoy a final day of shopping, a quiet spa treatment, or a walk through the nearby creative districts without the stress of early packing.
In the late afternoon/ early evening, we will transfer by private coach to Bangkok International Airport for your flight back to Johannesburg.
Hello, South Africa!
An early morning arrival in Johannesburg signals the end of a trip that we believe will leave you enriched, refreshed, and perhaps even a little surprised.
South Africa to the East
Your journey begins with an overnight international flight departing from Johannesburg. As you leave the continent behind, use the time to rest and shift gears. The anticipation is part of the travel experience, and the tropics await.
A Quiet Welcome
We arrive in Vientiane around midday. Unlike the frenetic energy of other Asian capitals, Vientiane has the soul of a large, leafy village. French colonial villas sit alongside glittering temples, and the atmosphere is refreshingly laid-back. You will be met by our local guide and transferred to your hotel to freshen up. The rest of the afternoon is yours to settle in. We recommend a walk along the Mekong riverfront at sunset, where locals gather for aerobics and evening gossip. Tonight, we host a relaxed welcome dinner to introduce you to the flavours of the region.
Spirituality and Home Cooking
We begin the day by exploring the city’s heritage. We visit Wat Sisaket, the only temple to survive the Siamese invasion of 1828. Here thousands of Buddha statues rest in quiet alcoves. We continue to the golden fortress of Pha That Luang, a symbol of Lao national pride, and the Patuxai monument, which echoes the Arc de Triomphe but is decorated with mythological kinnari figures.
The afternoon brings a change of pace as we visit a local family home for a private cooking experience. This is not a commercial demonstration but a genuine look at domestic life. You will learn to prepare dishes like mok pa (steamed fish in banana leaf) or a proper papaya salad, cooking over an open fire before sitting down to share the feast with your hosts. It is a warm, unforced insight into local hospitality.
The High-Speed Journey
This morning we board the Lane Xang high-speed train, a modern marvel that cuts through the countryside to Vang Vieng. The scenery shifts dramatically as we approach, with flat plains giving way to jagged limestone karsts that rise vertically from the emerald rice paddies like dragon’s teeth. We have chosen a riverside resort away from the busy town centre, ensuring peace and quiet. The afternoon is open for you to visit a nearby tea plantation or take a boat up the Nam Song River to watch the cliffs turn golden in the late afternoon light. It is a landscape that feels like a traditional Chinese painting come to life.
Into the Northern Highlands
We continue our journey north by train, heading deeper into the uplands of Oudomxai. The air here is cooler, the vegetation denser, and the atmosphere far removed from the standard tourist trail. This is the wilder side of Laos, home to diverse ethnic groups who maintain their distinct languages and customs. We arrive at our resort, which is nestled comfortably into the forest and designed to blend with the environment. The afternoon is unstructured, allowing you time to hike, swim, or simply relax on your balcony with a book and enjoy the sounds of the jungle.
Communities in the Clouds
Today is an adventure into the heart of the north. We travel by off-road vehicle up to 1,000 metres above sea level to visit isolated Ikhos and Hmong villages. These communities are animist, believing in the spirits of the land, and you may see the traditional “spirit gates” that guard the village entrances. Our visit is one of observation and respect rather than performance. We learn about their agriculture and daily lives before enjoying a picnic lunch in the open air, surrounded by panoramic mountain views. It is a humbling day that offers a perspective on a completely different way of life.
The River Expedition
After a scenic drive to the river town of Muang Khua, we board a private boat for a spectacular journey down the Nam Ou River. This is one of the most dramatic routes in Southeast Asia. Massive limestone cliffs loom over the water, and we pass small villages accessible only by boat. It is a meditative afternoon that feels like traveling through a different era. We arrive in Nong Khiau by late afternoon. For those with energy, a hike to the viewpoint offers a stunning sunset, though a gin and tonic by the river is an equally worthy option to watch the day fade.
The Jewel of Laos
We drive south to Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage site and arguably one of the most enchanting cities in Asia. It is sophisticated, historic, and utterly beautiful, with a blend of wooden Lao houses and French colonial architecture. After checking in, the evening is yours. We highly recommend a stroll through the famous night market. It is quiet, dimly lit, and filled with high-quality handmade textiles and silver. There is no hard selling here, just quiet smiles and incredible craftsmanship.
Gilded Temples and Turquoise Pools
Luang Prabang is best explored slowly. We spend the morning visiting the former Royal Palace to see the Prabang Buddha, the city’s namesake. We then visit the most beautiful of temples, Wat Xieng Thong, famous for its sweeping low roofs and the intricate “Tree of Life” glass mosaic on its rear wall.
After lunch, we drive out to the Kuang Si Falls. The water flows over limestone tiers and settles into pools of vibrant turquoise. It is the perfect spot to cool off or simply admire the view. On the return journey, we stop at the Free the Bears sanctuary. Operated by a dedicated non-profit, this sanctuary provides a protected, semi-wild home for Asiatic Black Bears rescued from the illegal wildlife trade, focusing entirely on their rehabilitation and welfare rather than public entertainment.
Artisans and the Mekong
We begin at Ock Pop Tok, a centre dedicated to preserving the art of Lao weaving. You will meet the weavers, see the intricate process, and try your hand at dyeing silk to create a personal souvenir. Later, we visit a small riverside village for a Baci ceremony. This traditional blessing involves tying white cotton threads around the wrist to bind the “32 spirits” (kwan) to the body, bringing luck and health. It is a touching moment of connection. We return to the city by private boat, cruising down the Mekong as the sun sets behind the mountains.
Reflections and Farewells
For the early risers, the morning almsgiving (Tak Bat) is a sight to behold. Hundreds of monks move silently through the dawn mist to collect offerings of sticky rice, a ritual that defines the spiritual life of the city. We deliberately steer clear of the commercialized main thoroughfare, taking you instead to a quiet side street where the ritual is still authentic and can be observed with the dignity and silence it deserves.
The rest of the day is free for you to explore the French cafes, galleries, and antique shops at your own pace. In the evening, we gather for a farewell dinner in a restored teak house. We have selected a menu that blends French culinary techniques with Lao ingredients, a fitting celebration of the history and flavours we have experienced together.
From the Mountains to the River
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before we transfer to the airport. We bid farewell to the quiet charm of Laos and fly to Bangkok for the final leg of our journey. Upon arrival, you will be met by our local guide and transferred by private coach to our hotel on the riverfront.
We have selected The Salil Hotel Riverside, a sophisticated sanctuary that blends classical elegance with a resort-like atmosphere. After checking in, you may wish to enjoy your complimentary Aqua Therapy session in the hotel’s specialized pool—a perfect way to refresh after your travels. The evening is yours to enjoy a sundowner overlooking the river or explore the hotel’s curated dining spaces.
The Venice of the East and the Silk King
One of the best ways to understand Bangkok’s soul is from the water. We board a private longtail boat to explore the klongs (canals) of Thonburi. Here, life slows down; wooden homes on stilts are draped in bougainvillea, and small family businesses operate just as they have for a century. We stop at the Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun), marvelling at its porcelain-studded spire before returning to the city centre.
For lunch, at your own cost, we transition from the river to the gardens of Jim Thompson’s House. This architectural gem, composed of six traditional teak houses, holds an exquisite collection of Southeast Asian art and tells the mysterious story of the man who revitalised the Thai silk industry.
The afternoon is free for you to explore the riverside boutiques or enjoy the hotel’s facilities.
We head out of the city early this morning to experience the Tha Kha Floating Market. Unlike the more famous tourist markets, Tha Kha remains a genuine local hub. We board small rowboats to glide past vendors selling ripe mangoes, juicy pineapples, and sweet coconuts. We also visit a traditional coconut sugar plantation at a local family home to see how this Thai staple is produced over open wood fires.
We return to the hotel for a restful afternoon. In the evening, we gather for our grand finale: the Manohra Dinner Cruise. We board a beautifully restored antique rice barge for a two-hour voyage along the river. As we dine on fine Thai cuisine, we pass the Grand Palace and the city’s illuminated landmarks, offering a glowing, old-world splendour that serves as a fitting farewell to the East.
Reflections and Late Farewells
Your final day in Bangkok is at leisure. We have secured a guaranteed late check-out for all rooms. This allows you to enjoy a final day of shopping, a quiet spa treatment, or a walk through the nearby creative districts without the stress of early packing.
In the late afternoon/ early evening, we will transfer by private coach to Bangkok International Airport for your flight back to Johannesburg.
Hello, South Africa!
An early morning arrival in Johannesburg signals the end of a trip that we believe will leave you enriched, refreshed, and perhaps even a little surprised.
This journey is designed for the traveller who values depth over distance. It is an invitation to explore a region defined by golden light, river life, and a culture that prioritizes peace over pace. From the colonial quiet of Vientiane to the rugged highlands of the north and the sophisticated grace of Luang Prabang. We balance comfort with genuine discovery. You will travel by high-speed rail and private boat, eat in family homes, and witness traditions that have held firm for centuries.
Note on Combinations:
This itinerary operates as a standalone journey or as a seamless extension of our Vietnam & Cambodia expedition. For those joining us from the previous leg, you will transition in Vientiane on 26 October as the Vietnam group departs, while new guests arrive to begin the Laos chapter.
We care about our guests
Seagull Travel & Tours crafts small group tours that offer luxury, convenience, and spontaneous moments of joy.
Seagull travels around the world
Seagull curates and facilitates exceptional travel experiences to premium destinations worldwide.
We are here to help
The tour leader collects a set amount from each member of a tour. This kitty is then used to tip the local tour guide and city guides, bus drivers, any other assistants, and restaurant staff. We believe in tipping for good service as a token of appreciation, especially as many workers in tourism rely on tips to supplement their income.
Although we cannot apply on your behalf, we are more than willing to give guidance and assistance with completing forms. We do this for many clients on a near-daily basis. It does, however, remain the responsibility of the client to ensure that they get the correct visa on time.
Remember that we limit the number of guests on our tours. This means more time at stops and sites. We definitely do not do groups of 30 pax, where guests are rushed from one site to the other. There is enough time to explore on your own.
We always suggest USD/Euro 50 to USD/Euro 100 per person per day. As we mostly include two meals per day on our tours, this will be enough for lunch/dinner, some snacks, and memento shopping. Should you want to buy larger items, we suggest taking along your credit card. Remember to advise the bank that you will be travelling.
Once you have completed the form, you will receive an email with the itinerary which includes pricing, inclusions and flight options.
You can contact us at info@seagulltours.co.za or +27 42 296 0475