Mekong River Journey: Thailand & Laos in Small Group

After lunch, we set off to discover the historic center of Ayutthaya. We explore in particular the Wat Mahathat, a major temple dating from the late 14th century, famous for the Buddha head entwined in the roots of a tree, which has become one of the site's symbols.

The visit continues to the Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, a former royal temple and the largest in the ancient capital, recognizable by its elegant aligned chedis that testify to the past grandeur of the kingdom.

Finally, we discover the Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, renowned for its impressive reclining Buddha and peaceful atmosphere, offering a fine conclusion to this immersion in the heart of Siam's history.

With your English-speaking guide, you make a detour to the Warorot great market, where you can find all kinds of northern Thai specialties, such as Sai Ua (northern sausage), Moo Yo (traditional Vietnamese pork sausage), Nam Phrik Num (northern green chili paste) and dried fruits, among other delights. In addition to local food, the market also offers clothing, ceramics, fabrics, embroidery tools, flowers, and much more.

Next, we head to the Doi Suthep temple, perched on the slopes of the mountain at approximately 1,200 meters altitude. A true symbol of Chiang Mai, this magnificent Buddhist temple offers an atmosphere steeped in serenity and spirituality, where statues, sanctuaries and bells accompany the faithful and visitors in a moment of contemplation. According to legend, its location was chosen by a white elephant carrying a sacred relic of Buddha: after climbing the mountain, the animal is said to have stopped at the summit, trumpeted three times and then lay down, thus indicating the place where the temple should be built. Today, its terraces offer a spectacular view over the city and the surrounding valley.

Along the way, we stop at the Wat Pha lat, a more discreet temple nestled in the forest, appreciated for its peaceful setting and almost confidential atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Finally, we will end our day with a visit to the Wat Umong, a Buddhist temple founded in the 13th century and nestled at the foot of the Doi Suthep mountains. Surrounded by forest, this monastery offers a particularly peaceful atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle of the city.

We will discover the history of the place by crossing its ancient tunnels, dug for meditation. It is also an opportunity to exchange, when possible, with the resident monks and learn more about monastic life.

6:00 PM - We head to a Thai boxing school for a private one-hour demonstration of the discipline.

This morning, we set off by bike to discover Chiang Mai, nicknamed the "Rose of the North". From the famous Tha Phae gate, and with the Doi Suthep mountains as a backdrop, we quickly leave the main roads to slip into the small streets and traditional alleys of the city. Along the way, we traverse historic neighborhoods dotted with ancient temples, we encounter monks in their daily lives, and along the way we stop near lively markets. The route also takes us outside the city walls, where the pace becomes gentler, to meet a more local Chiang Mai: scenes of daily life, small workshops, craftsmanship and busy residents who watch you pass with curiosity. Small group activity, accompanied by an English-speaking local guide. 3 hours - Approximately 13 km

In the late afternoon, we set off for an English-speaking traditional cooking class, organized in the countryside, outside Chiang Mai, in an old Lanna style house. In a friendly atmosphere, we discover the basics of Thai cuisine and learn to balance the emblematic flavors: spicy, sweet, salty and tangy.

Throughout the session, we will prepare several essential recipes, before tasting our creations on site.

Vegetarian or vegan options available. (Please inform us in advance)

Menu (indicative):

• Tom Kha Gai (lemongrass coconut milk soup)

• Pad Thaï (stir-fried rice noodles)

• Nam Prik Ong (Northern specialty with tomatoes and chili)

• Khao Soi Gai (curry noodle soup, Northern specialty)

• Dessert: Khao Niao Mamuang (sticky rice with coconut milk and mango)

Upon arrival in Chiang Rai, we visit the extraordinary Le Wat Rong Khun "white temple", a contemporary creation by one of Thailand's most renowned artists: Chalermchai Kositpipat.

In reality, while the site mimics the appearance of a religious complex, its purpose is quite different: the nine buildings house extraordinary works of art, from statues of Buddha in meditation to pop culture idols like Michael Jackson, along with murals that celebrate the doctrines of Theravada Buddhism. Its immaculate white color gives the structure a unique and striking character.

Continue to Wat Rong Sua Ten, known as the "blue temple", a work by a disciple of architect Chalermchai. You will observe sculptures of Buddha in lotus position as well as figures of demons, legendary nagas that are half man and half serpent, paintings illustrating events from the earthly life of Gautama.

2 nights at Nak Nakara in a Lanna room. Opposite this hotel is the historical site where the great Emerald Buddha was discovered, now located in Bangkok. A historical place often forgotten, but which traces the mystery of the Emerald Buddha!

Early morning departure to a village in Mae Chan district to discover rural life.

You will be welcomed by the owner of the property who will offer you tea and introduce you to her veritable ark of all the animals that she and her husband have rescued over more than twenty years.

Among them are 3 elephants who have found here an ideal refuge to live in complete peace. You will learn more about their lives and will be able to feed them before departing in their company and that of their Mahout for a walk in the surrounding jungle where the pachyderms will continue to feed.

Karen specialty lunch by a small lake, with the possibility of a short bamboo raft ride on the waters.

Back at the camp, we will finally witness the bathing of the elephants.

We head to the port where we embark for a cruise on the Mekong River, in the heart of the famous Golden Triangle, a region marked by the meeting of Thai, Lao and Burmese borders. Aboard a local boat, we will enjoy a cruise of approximately one hour on this mythical river, while admiring the landscapes that line its banks.

We will then continue our discovery along the banks of the Mekong to a viewpoint offering a panorama of the river and the impressive entertainment complex located on the Lao riverbank.

This morning, departure for the Laos border. Transfer with a driver only. Let's begin our journey in Laos with a cruise, gliding gently along the Mekong through peaceful and authentic landscapes.

On board, let's have lunch at the rhythm of the river, while hills and stilt villages pass by. Arrival in Pakbang at the end of the day.

Night at Sanctuary Pakbang Lodge in a superior room

At dawn, our Mekong cruise begins, boarding a boat for a day full of discovery. As the river awakens, breakfast is served to you, accompanied by the peaceful spectacle of the banks that unfold.

In early afternoon, stop at the famous Pak Ou caves, nestled at the confluence of the Nam Ou and the Mekong. then we will make a stop at the village of Ban Xang Hai, renowned for its rice alcohol. The cruise will continue towards Luang Prabang, where we can admire the Vat Xieng Thong temple, a true jewel of local architecture, at the confluence of the Mekong and the Nam Khan river. Day accompanied by an English-speaking guide.

At the end of the day, we reach the hotel, enjoy your free evening to explore the night market. For your stay in Luang Prabang you will be staying at the Treasure Hotel.

This morning our guide will welcome us for a visit in "Tuk-Tuk Deluxe" of the monuments of Luang Prabang, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

We will discover the former Royal Palace, Vat Mai, the TAEC (Traditional and Ethnic Arts Centre), as well as the temples Vat Visoun, Vat Aham and Vat Xieng Mouane. The Heritage House will allow us to understand the preservation of local architecture.

After lunch, let's head to the magnificent Kuang Si waterfalls. Once there, we'll enjoy a relaxing moment and, for the more adventurous, a swim in its turquoise waters. Next, let's visit the Asian black bear rescue center and learn more about their protection.

On the way back, we'll stop at the buffalo farm, where we'll cuddle the animals and discover cheese and milk production. Day accompanied by an English-speaking guide.

Early in the afternoon, head to the opposite bank of the Nam Song river to discover Tham Xang, "the Elephant Cave", a major Buddhist pilgrimage site where the sacred footprint of Buddha is venerated. We will then continue through the Vang Vieng valley, renowned for its caves and lagoons with turquoise waters.

Nights at Confetti Garden Hotel.

This morning, let's head towards Nam Ngum Lake in the Tha Heua region to board a cruise of approximately 4 hours across the lake's islands.

Along the way, we will discover the lake's formation and local activities such as charcoal production, fishing techniques and rice cultivation. We will dock on an island to watch a fishing net demonstration before enjoying a barbecue lunch.

We will begin our exploration of Vientiane with two emblematic sites: Wat Sisaket, the oldest intact temple in the capital, and the Ho Pra Keo Sacred Buddhist Arts Museum, formerly a sanctuary of the Emerald Buddha. We will then visit the COPE center, dedicated to the rehabilitation of victims of unexploded bombs, offering poignant insight into Laos' recent history. Next, we head to That Luang, the great golden stupa, a national symbol and important pilgrimage site. We will continue with the Patuxay, the city's Arc de Triomphe, before heading to the Buddha Park, where astonishing sculptures blend Buddhist and Hindu traditions.

Return to the hotel and free time, with the possibility of strolling through Chao Anouvong Park at the end of the day. Day accompanied by an English-speaking guide.

Start your day with a boat ride through the khlongs heading to the Taling Chang floating market, a typical local floating market, open only on weekends! Breakfast at the market.

You head off to discover Bangkok's architectural jewels. Marvel at the splendor of the Grand Palace of Bangkok, built in 1782: a sumptuous ensemble of buildings and inner courtyards, including Wat Phra Kaeo (Temple of the Emerald Buddha). You discover the famous Emerald Buddha, a precious statue dating from the 14th century, at the heart of one of the country's most revered sanctuaries.

Then, on foot, you reach Wat Pho, one of Bangkok's oldest temples, renowned for its peaceful atmosphere and elegant pavilions. You discover the impressive Reclining Buddha, an emblematic figure of the place, as well as the interior courtyards dotted with stupas and refined decorative details.

Then, you cross the river by small boat to reach Wat Arun, the famous "Temple of Dawn", standing on the right bank. Upon arrival, you admire its spectacular central prang, finely decorated with porcelain mosaics and floral patterns that shimmer in the light.

Night at Shanghai Mansion, a charming boutique hotel in the heart of Bangkok's Chinatown.

Suggestion: In the evening, you can stroll freely through Chinatown, exploring the alleyways brimming with shops of all kinds. Early in the evening, the night market sets up on Yaowarat Road and its adjoining illuminated alleys, giving new life to the neighborhood. You'll find all sorts of Thai and Chinese specialties to dine on.