Capturing a Blissful and Blessed Vientiane

Vientiane , Laos

Capturing a Blissful and Blessed Vientiane

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Vientiane is not your average capital. Heavily influenced by the French, the seat of the Laotian government lacks aspects of what is commonly defined as a hustle-and-bustle metropolis where time moves fast. The contrary is actually the truth; tree-lined boulevards with small coffee corner, temples and religious shrines where a coming-and-going of the faithful may be the only traffic jam during that day, and where life takes on an even slower pace when settling down along the Mekong for the sun to set.

The aura of Laos’ kind-hearted city flows, not inadvertently, also further afield. A slightly different approach of Vientiane’s artistic and warm-hearted side comes in the shape of this almost full day exploration of the often overlooked side.

Available options

Private Tour (25-26)

Pickup included

What's included

A professional English-speaking guide.

All applicable taxes and service charges

Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle with professional driver.

Lunch at a local restaurant is included (food only)

All entrance fees for visits as mentioned in the description.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

In tune with the city’s rhythm, your guide and driver will arrive at your hotel at around 9:30pm, ample time to prepare yourself without the rush. The tour commences with an approximately 45-minute drive to the Buddha Park. Situated on the outskirts of Vientiane on the Mekong River is a vast manicured garden lined with trees that is home to over 200 concrete sculptures of Buddha, Hindu Gods, demons and mythological creatures of different sizes.

The park's most striking sculpture is a huge pumpkin with three levels representing earth, heaven and hell which can be explored via a staircase and at the top offers spectacular views of the park. Despite its interesting sculptures, Buddha Park is not a temple although locals regularly frequent the park to worship its religious monuments like its large reclining Buddha. Built in 1958 by an eccentric business man, The Buddha Park offers great views into neighboring Thailand.

We head over to our lunch address at a unique and meaningful place in Laos. The Lao Disabled Development Centre is a non-government organization delivering free education and support to the disabled females in the Laotian society. Women from across the country are able to come, live and study here to become valuable and contributing members of the Laotian population.

After enjoying a locally prepared lunch, your guide will show you around the complex where handicraft, sewing and weaving are being taught by volunteers. The whole centre is maintained through donations: contributing and visiting this centre of hope and empowerment directly contributes to the wellbeing of disabled women.

After this meaningful visit, we head back to Vientiane to bring you back to your accommodation at around 2:30pm.

What's not included

Personal expenses such as meals, drinks, tips and gratuities, shopping, portage fees

Hotel accommodation in the destination of commencement.

Single supplement charges for single travellers, where applicable

Any airline tickets, visa fees, additional transportation cost from and to the general meeting point

Travel insurance coverage for customers (highly recommendable)

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

This tour is operated on full private basis with English-speaking guide. Other languages are on request / subject to availability and supplementary charges may apply.

Return transfers for this excursion apply only / are inclusive for customers staying in and inside Vientiane.

Transfers outside these areas, including any accommodation outside this area such as Ngam Num Lake, Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge, and Vientiane International Airport are excluded. Supplements apply for customers who want to join this excursion outside one of these regions.

Customers are reminded to submit their passport number and expiration date with their reservation. These are essential requirements as outlined by local immigration regulations.

We will do all possible to comply with any dietary requirements during this excursion; it may not always be possible to confirm your wishes in advance based on the choice of local restaurant.

Guests are advised that some walking is required during this excursion; we always ensure that we take the most comfortable ways from the entrance of the sight to the sight itself.

We always will make efforts to confirm the exact pick-up time upon reservation. For any operational issues in which are not able to confirm the exact pick-up time in advance, we reserve the right to inform you the day before the departure of the tour.

Natural elements of any kind have a destructive effect on electronic equipment. It the customer’s own responsibility to ensure that any camera, mobile telephone or other device is properly wrapped and protected against these elements. We cannot be held responsible in any way for negligence and/or not following suggestions for any damage related to this.

Please ensure that you bring sunglasses, a hat /cap and sunblock with a high SPF factor when traveling with us on this tour – even when it is cloudy, the sunrays still have an immense power.

It is the responsibility of the customer to provide us with the correct hotel information, should pick-up and drop-off services be included in the package. Any changes in accommodation outside 24 hours will be handled accordingly: changes within 24 hours may be on request.

In the event of no-show or change of accommodation without prior consent and confirmation from us within 24 hours may result in the applicable cancellation charges as outlined in the terms and conditions.

Important notes

- Please contact Asian Trails at least 72 hours before your activity date to confirm your reservation and arrange transportation. Changes within 24 hours may be on request.
- Pick-up times for excursions will be reconfirmed one day prior to commencement of your booked excursion. As an indication, the pick-up time from your accommodation is scheduled 30-60 minutes prior to the confirmed starting time.
- Please be ready and waiting in your hotel lobby 15 minute prior to your scheduled pick up time.
- Upon pickup, please present your confirmation/voucher or photo ID in exchange for your activity.

In the event of no-show or change of accommodation without prior consent and confirmation from us within 24 hours may result in the applicable cancellation charges as outlined in the terms and conditions.

About Vientiane

Vientiane is the capital and largest city of Laos, known for its laid-back atmosphere, Buddhist temples, and French colonial architecture. Situated on the banks of the Mekong River, it offers a unique blend of traditional Lao culture and modern influences.

Top Attractions

Pha That Luang

This is the most important Buddhist monument in Laos, a golden stupa that symbolizes the pure land of Buddhism.

Religious 1-2 hours Moderate ($2 entry fee)

Patuxai

This is a famous landmark in Vientiane, often referred to as the Arc de Triomphe of Laos, built to commemorate Lao soldiers who fought in World War II.

Historical 1-2 hours Moderate ($1 entry fee)

COPE Visitor Center

A museum dedicated to the history of Laos during the Secret War and the impact of unexploded ordnance (UXO) on the country.

Museum 1 hour Free (donations welcome)

Wat Si Muang

One of the most revered temples in Vientiane, known for its intricate carvings and historical significance.

Religious 1 hour Moderate ($1 entry fee)

Mekong Riverfront

The Mekong Riverfront is a scenic area along the river, perfect for leisurely walks, enjoying the sunset, and experiencing local life.

Nature Anytime Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Laap

A traditional Lao dish made with minced meat (usually chicken, beef, or fish) mixed with herbs, spices, and lime juice, served with sticky rice.

Main Dish Contains meat, can be made with chicken, beef, or fish

Tam Mak Hoong (Green Papaya Salad)

A spicy and tangy salad made with green papaya, tomatoes, chili, lime juice, and fish sauce.

Salad Vegetarian version available (without fish sauce)

Khao Piak Sen

A comforting noodle soup made with rice noodles, chicken or pork, and a flavorful broth.

Soup Contains meat, can be made with chicken or pork

Sai Oua (Lao Sausage)

A grilled sausage made with minced pork, herbs, and spices, served with sticky rice.

Appetizer Contains pork

Popular Activities

Kayaking on the Mekong River Caving in Vang Vieng Hiking in Buddha Park Sunset views along the Mekong Riverfront Spa and wellness treatments Picnicking in parks Temple visits Traditional Lao dance performances

Best Time to Visit

November to February

This is the most pleasant time to visit with lower humidity and cooler temperatures. It's ideal for exploring the city and enjoying outdoor activities.

20-30°C 68-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Lao
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Limited/Rare

Currency

Lao Kip (LAK)

Time Zone

GMT+7

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Vientiane is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and scams can occur. Exercise caution, especially in crowded areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of pickpockets and petty theft
• Use reputable tour operators and transportation services
• Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas

Getting there

By air

Wattay International Airport • 5 km from city center

By bus

Northern Bus Station, Southern Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are affordable but can be crowded. Routes and schedules are not always clearly marked.

Taxis

Available • Apps: No widely used apps, negotiate fares directly

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Ban Anou Sisaket

Day trips

Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan)

25 km from Vientiane • Half day

A unique park featuring hundreds of Buddhist and Hindu statues, as well as a large reclining Buddha. The park is a popular day trip from Vientiane.

Kaysone Phomvihane (Formerly Thakhek)

230 km from Vientiane • Full day

A scenic town along the Mekong River, known for its limestone karst formations and outdoor activities like kayaking and cycling.

Vang Vieng

150 km from Vientiane • Full day or overnight

A picturesque town surrounded by limestone karsts and the Nam Song River, known for its outdoor activities, stunning landscapes, and laid-back atmosphere.

Festivals

Pi Mai (Lao New Year) • Mid-April (dates vary) Boun Ok Phansa (End of Buddhist Lent) • October (dates vary) That Luang Festival • November (dates vary)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Lao phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
Carry small denominations of Lao Kip for street vendors and markets
Dress modestly when visiting temples and religious sites
Use reputable tour operators and transportation services to avoid scams
Be cautious when using ATMs and exchanging money, and always carry cash