Duration
14 days / 13 nights
Price Per Person
Interests
Destinations

This challenging-yet-rewarding motorbike journey through Northern Laos’ exotic, stunning landscape makes for a wonderfully-memorable holiday experience. Rev your way through the streets and dirt tracks of Vientiane, Xayabouly, Luang Namtha, Nong Kiau and Luang Prabang, stopping to take in UNESCO Heritage Sites, national parks, waterfalls, temples, and a host of other treats along the way. This exhilarating journey across Laos is guaranteed to leave you memories to last a lifetime. 

This itinerary is an example. It’s designed to inspire you and provide you with thoughtfully curated ideas. You can choose to do this exact itinerary or completely personalize it. All trips are 100% bespoke.

Highlights

  • Motorbiking: Ride over dirt roads, through bamboo groves and tribal villages, wind around hairpin mountain bends and along the bubbling Mekong - the best way to explore rural Laos is arguably on two wheels.
  • Hill Tribes: Laos is one of the most ethnically diverse countries in the world, as you'll discover when you meet Yao, Red Akha, Khmu and Black Tai peoples, to name but a few.
  • Nam Phouy National Protected Area: Home to the largest wild elephant population in the country, Nam Phouy's forest-covered mountains offer sanctuary to an abundance of wildlife.

Day-by-Day

Day 1

Vientiane

Arrive in Vientiane, the capital of Laos, and check in to your hotel. We recommend the luxurious Settha Palace Hotel for its French colonial charm. Get acquainted with your new surroundings, and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure, perhaps exploring the city or relaxing at the hotel’s pool or spa.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: Based in the epicentre of the city, just minutes away from the hustle and bustle of Vientiane's commercial district, there’s plenty to keep guests occupied while staying in Laos’ beautiful capital city. History: The building that houses Settha Palace was constructed in the earlier years of the last century, and has been restored to its former glory, maintaining its French Colonial appearance. The family who originally owned the hotel are back in possession of it, after the regime change in 1975, and have spared no expense in restoring it to its natural brilliance. Service: With 24-hour concierge service, plus a sophisticated limo service, guests will feel like the VIPs of Vientiane while staying at this hotel.

See Hotel
Settha Palace Hotel Preferred Hotel

Day 2

Paklai

Today, you’ll be heading to Paklai district in Xayabouly Province by motorbike. Ride the sometimes dirt, sometimes paved road through bamboo groves, past hill tribe villages, and across long, scenic stretches of the Thai/Lao border. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Sanakham, before climbing through steep mountains to a crossing over the Mekong River. Take a load off once arrived in Paklai, and rest up at the small, simple guesthouse.

Hotel Options
About

Cozy teak guesthouses can be found throughout the Lao landscape, offering accommodation to travelers venturing off the beaten track. Ranging from basic to mid-tier, most Laos guesthouses feature clean beds, private bathrooms with hot and cold shower, cable TV, air-conditioning, and onsite-restaurant and bar.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 3

Sayaboury

Wake up bright and early today and hit the dirt road once again. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant in Ban Thongmixay. This afternoon will take you through Nam Phouy National Protected Area, nestled into the forested mountains of the Luang Prabang Range and known for its ubiquity of wildlife. You’ll arrive in Sayaboury town, the capital of the province, late this afternoon. Spend tonight at a guesthouse.

Hotel Options
About

Cozy teak guesthouses can be found throughout the Lao landscape, offering accommodation to travelers venturing off the beaten track. Ranging from basic to mid-tier, most Laos guesthouses feature clean beds, private bathrooms with hot and cold shower, cable TV, air-conditioning, and onsite-restaurant and bar.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Sayaboury
Sayaboury

Day 4

Ban Khop

Today’s ride will be long and challenging, as you meander through Hmong and Khmu villages of lowland Laos. Stop for lunch at a Ban Hongsa restaurant, ahead of the next 103-mile leg of the journey to Ban Khop. Once arrived, check in to a local guest house and relax for the night.

Hotel Options
About

Cozy teak guesthouses can be found throughout the Lao landscape, offering accommodation to travelers venturing off the beaten track. Ranging from basic to mid-tier, most Laos guesthouses feature clean beds, private bathrooms with hot and cold shower, cable TV, air-conditioning, and onsite-restaurant and bar.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 5

Vieng Phouka

Start your day off with a relaxed breakfast. You’ll then hop on your bike for a quick ride to Pak Khop, where a three-hour boat ride will take you and your bike to Pak Tha, the point where the Namtha and Mekong rivers meet. After this nice break, you’ll be back on the motorbike, riding about 40 minutes to Houay Xai. In the afternoon, you’ll continue onwards to Vieng Phouka, which you’ll reach before evening time. Check in to your guesthouse, before heading out to visit nearby villages.

Hotel Options
About

Cozy teak guesthouses can be found throughout the Lao landscape, offering accommodation to travelers venturing off the beaten track. Ranging from basic to mid-tier, most Laos guesthouses feature clean beds, private bathrooms with hot and cold shower, cable TV, air-conditioning, and onsite-restaurant and bar.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 6

Na Mor

Nam Ha National Protected Area is blanketed with mixed deciduous forest - this will be among your destinations today, crossing three small streams and climbing to Pou Vieng Mountain’s peak. Stop to enjoy the stunning view. Lunch will be served near the banks of the Nam Tha River, which you’ll be crossing afterwards. Visit Na Mor village and stay at a local guesthouse nearby. 

Hotel Options
About

Cozy teak guesthouses can be found throughout the Lao landscape, offering accommodation to travelers venturing off the beaten track. Ranging from basic to mid-tier, most Laos guesthouses feature clean beds, private bathrooms with hot and cold shower, cable TV, air-conditioning, and onsite-restaurant and bar.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Na Mor
Na Mor

Day 7

Nongkiau

Today, visit the minority villages of the Yao, Red Akha, and Khmu ethnic groups, and gain some insight into their age-old traditions and culture. Lunch will be served in Oudomxay town. This afternoon, the ride will be relatively easy and very scenic. When you reach Nongkiau, you may check in to a local guest house and relax your tired legs for the evening.

Hotel Options
About

Cozy teak guesthouses can be found throughout the Lao landscape, offering accommodation to travelers venturing off the beaten track. Ranging from basic to mid-tier, most Laos guesthouses feature clean beds, private bathrooms with hot and cold shower, cable TV, air-conditioning, and onsite-restaurant and bar.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 8

Nongkiau

Wake up early today and catch the sun rising over the limestone mountains – an unforgettable view! Next, you'll take a leisurely boat on the Nam Ou River, and arrive in Black Tai village, where you'll spend the evening immersed in the local Thai Dam culture and traditions. Learn about their unique ways of living and spiritual worship. This evening, you will return to your guethouse in Nongkiau.

Day 9

Luang Prabang

Today, you're driving  to Luang Prabang, the former government center and royal capital of the Kingdom of Laos. This will be a 71-mile thrilling ride offering great views. Stop by minority villages along the way to see rural Laotian life in the north. Enjoy lunch in Oudomxay, after which the rest of the ride is easy. Spend the night at a luxury hotel in Luang Prabang-- we recommend either Amantaka or Hotel de la Paix.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Service: Like all other Aman holdings, Amantaka is a boutique property that features top-notch service in a contemporary, tasteful setting

History: Set in a former French hospital that was renovated, Amantaka combines yesterday's luxury with today's comforts

Location: Amantaka is located extremely close to Luang Prabang's myriad atractions, particularly its busy, atmospheric night market - accessible on foot from the grounds of the resort

See Hotel
Amantaka Preferred Hotel
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: Located in Heart of Laos, this Sofitel property is situated the town of Luang Prabang, a charming city with enchanting and picturesque surroundings, based along the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers.

History: One of Asia’s proudest jewels, the town of Luang Prabang lives in no one’s shadow. It’s said that Buddha himself once stood in the lush rainforest of the village, leaving his footprint for generations to follow. In 1995, the small town became a global focal point, when it became listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Service: Sofitel Luang Prabang is known for its heartfelt hospitality, deeply influenced by the warm and welcoming attitudes inherent to Lao culture.

See Hotel
Sofitel Luang Prabang Preferred Hotel
Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang

Day 10

Luang Prabang

Enjoy the lovely sights of Luang Prabang today. Head to the National Museum, housed in the former Royal Palace. Visit Wat Xieng Thong and Wat Visoun, two of the city’s most important temples. You’ll observe the intricate weaving and paper-making processes in Ban Phanom and Ban Xang Khong. This afternoon, you’ll be treated to the stunning Kuang Si waterfall, one of Southeast Asia’s most beautiful natural landmarks. Stroll through the town this evening, perhaps picking up some souvenirs from the night market, before heading back to your hotel.

Day 11

Vang Vieng

Drive your motorbike all the way to Vang Vieng today - a jaw-droppingly beautiful journey. Vang Vieng was once a backpacker district famous for its tubing adventures, and less known than it ought to be for its picturesque landscape and natural beauty. Arrive in Vang Vieng this evening after your ride through Kasi district, and check in to your local guest house.

Hotel Options
About

Cozy teak guesthouses can be found throughout the Lao landscape, offering accommodation to travelers venturing off the beaten track. Ranging from basic to mid-tier, most Laos guesthouses feature clean beds, private bathrooms with hot and cold shower, cable TV, air-conditioning, and onsite-restaurant and bar.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 12

Vang Vieng

Explore the sights of Vang Vieng today - meander through its mystical caves, climb up its rock walls, kayak its rivers, or cycle around the charming town. Choose any adventure, and you’re guaranteed to have a memorable, thrilling, fun time. After your exciting day, enjoy some leisure time to check out the city’s vibrant nightlife.

Vang Vieng
Vang Vieng

Day 13

Vientiane

Head back to Laos’ relaxed capital, Vientiane today, where you’ll embark on a city tour. You’ll hit major sites, including the golden That Luang Stupa, which holds centuries upon centuries of secrets; and Talat Sao Market, where you can sample some of the city’s freshest produce. Stop by some boutiques to pick up unique curios, before heading back to your hotel.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: Based in the epicentre of the city, just minutes away from the hustle and bustle of Vientiane's commercial district, there’s plenty to keep guests occupied while staying in Laos’ beautiful capital city. History: The building that houses Settha Palace was constructed in the earlier years of the last century, and has been restored to its former glory, maintaining its French Colonial appearance. The family who originally owned the hotel are back in possession of it, after the regime change in 1975, and have spared no expense in restoring it to its natural brilliance. Service: With 24-hour concierge service, plus a sophisticated limo service, guests will feel like the VIPs of Vientiane while staying at this hotel.

See Hotel
Settha Palace Hotel Preferred Hotel
About

This stylish boutique hotel is one of the city's finest properties and sits just a short drive outside the centre of Vientiane. Built around a central swimming pool, it is a truly chic and tranquil retreat.

If our Preferred Hotel is unavailable, this accommodation is a reliable alternative and has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 14

Departure

After breakfast this morning, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward journey.

Suggested Hotel For Day 1

Settha Palace Hotel
Preferred Hotel

Settha Palace Hotel

The historic Settha Palace Hotel is centrally located in Vientiane within walking distance of the Mekong River, Thatluang Stupa, Namphu Fountain, and other cultural highlights. Built in French colonial style circa 1932 and restored and reopened in 1999, the hotel has 22 rooms and three suites, all featuring rosewood four-poster beds and armoires, and WiFi connectivity. For dining, La Belle Epoque offers French cuisine, and the Sidewalk Café is a pleasant open-air venue offering Asian and international dishes. Amenities include a spa, pool and Jacuzzi; however there is no fitness center. Additionally, there is a business center with Internet and fax services. The hotel is a 10-minute drive from Wattai International Airport and a 25-minute drive to Thadeua, where there is a border bridge to Thailand.

See Hotel

Suggested Hotel For Day 2

Guesthouse

Guesthouse

Cozy teak guesthouses can be found throughout the Lao landscape, offering accommodation to travelers venturing off the beaten track. Ranging from basic to mid-tier, most Laos guesthouses feature clean beds, private bathrooms with hot and cold shower, cable TV, air-conditioning, and onsite-restaurant and bar. Laundry service, WiFi and rentable bicycles may also be available.  These quaint lodgings allow guests to relax in comfort while enjoying the languid Lao countryside.

Suggested Hotel For Day 3

Guesthouse

Guesthouse

Cozy teak guesthouses can be found throughout the Lao landscape, offering accommodation to travelers venturing off the beaten track. Ranging from basic to mid-tier, most Laos guesthouses feature clean beds, private bathrooms with hot and cold shower, cable TV, air-conditioning, and onsite-restaurant and bar. Laundry service, WiFi and rentable bicycles may also be available.  These quaint lodgings allow guests to relax in comfort while enjoying the languid Lao countryside.

Suggested Hotel For Day 4

Guesthouse

Guesthouse

Cozy teak guesthouses can be found throughout the Lao landscape, offering accommodation to travelers venturing off the beaten track. Ranging from basic to mid-tier, most Laos guesthouses feature clean beds, private bathrooms with hot and cold shower, cable TV, air-conditioning, and onsite-restaurant and bar. Laundry service, WiFi and rentable bicycles may also be available.  These quaint lodgings allow guests to relax in comfort while enjoying the languid Lao countryside.

Suggested Hotel For Day 5

Guesthouse

Guesthouse

Cozy teak guesthouses can be found throughout the Lao landscape, offering accommodation to travelers venturing off the beaten track. Ranging from basic to mid-tier, most Laos guesthouses feature clean beds, private bathrooms with hot and cold shower, cable TV, air-conditioning, and onsite-restaurant and bar. Laundry service, WiFi and rentable bicycles may also be available.  These quaint lodgings allow guests to relax in comfort while enjoying the languid Lao countryside.

Suggested Hotel For Day 6

Guesthouse

Guesthouse

Cozy teak guesthouses can be found throughout the Lao landscape, offering accommodation to travelers venturing off the beaten track. Ranging from basic to mid-tier, most Laos guesthouses feature clean beds, private bathrooms with hot and cold shower, cable TV, air-conditioning, and onsite-restaurant and bar. Laundry service, WiFi and rentable bicycles may also be available.  These quaint lodgings allow guests to relax in comfort while enjoying the languid Lao countryside.

Suggested Hotel For Days 7–8

Guesthouse

Guesthouse

Cozy teak guesthouses can be found throughout the Lao landscape, offering accommodation to travelers venturing off the beaten track. Ranging from basic to mid-tier, most Laos guesthouses feature clean beds, private bathrooms with hot and cold shower, cable TV, air-conditioning, and onsite-restaurant and bar. Laundry service, WiFi and rentable bicycles may also be available.  These quaint lodgings allow guests to relax in comfort while enjoying the languid Lao countryside.

Suggested Hotels For Days 9–10

Amantaka
Preferred Hotel

Amantaka

Amantaka is set south of Phousi Mountain and close to the banks of the Mekong River and the Luang Prabang Night Market. The resort, an old French colonial building, is surrounded by a spacious courtyard, and has 24 suites – eight deluxe suites, four pool suites, eight Khan suites, two Mekong suites and two Amantaka suites, all with spacious interior and exterior living areas. Facilities include a spa, a fitness center, a library and a boutique art gallery. Amantaka is little more than a ten- minute drive from Luang Prabang International Airport (LPQ).

See Hotel
Sofitel Luang Prabang
Preferred Hotel

Sofitel Luang Prabang

Sofitel Luang Prabang, located in a refurbished French colonial fort, is one of Luang Prabang's most historic luxury hotels. Formerly known as Hotel de la Paix, Sofitel Luang Prabang consists of 25 suites, including the Signature Governor's Residence, all designed in contemporary style with a bathtub, free WiFi, flat-screen TV, DVD player and iPod, as well as a private terrace/garden area. An all-day dining restaurant serves classic Lao cuisine, and the colonial-style bar is a great spot to enjoy a cocktail by the fireplace. The hotel also has a spa and library.

See Hotel

Suggested Hotel For Days 11–12

Guesthouse

Guesthouse

Cozy teak guesthouses can be found throughout the Lao landscape, offering accommodation to travelers venturing off the beaten track. Ranging from basic to mid-tier, most Laos guesthouses feature clean beds, private bathrooms with hot and cold shower, cable TV, air-conditioning, and onsite-restaurant and bar. Laundry service, WiFi and rentable bicycles may also be available.  These quaint lodgings allow guests to relax in comfort while enjoying the languid Lao countryside.

Suggested Hotels For Day 13

Settha Palace Hotel
Preferred Hotel

Settha Palace Hotel

The historic Settha Palace Hotel is centrally located in Vientiane within walking distance of the Mekong River, Thatluang Stupa, Namphu Fountain, and other cultural highlights. Built in French colonial style circa 1932 and restored and reopened in 1999, the hotel has 22 rooms and three suites, all featuring rosewood four-poster beds and armoires, and WiFi connectivity. For dining, La Belle Epoque offers French cuisine, and the Sidewalk Café is a pleasant open-air venue offering Asian and international dishes. Amenities include a spa, pool and Jacuzzi; however there is no fitness center. Additionally, there is a business center with Internet and fax services. The hotel is a 10-minute drive from Wattai International Airport and a 25-minute drive to Thadeua, where there is a border bridge to Thailand.

See Hotel
Green Park Boutique Hotel

Green Park Boutique Hotel

This stylish boutique hotel is one of the city's finest properties and sits just a short drive outside the centre of Vientiane. Built around a central swimming pool, it is a truly chic and tranquil retreat. Its 34 stylish rooms all come with air conditioning, tea/coffee facilities, satellite TV, a minibar, DVD player and radio, with a balcony/terrace overlooking the pool. There is also a restaurant and bar, with breakfast available to take away for those guests leaving early to go touring. As well as the stunning outdoor pool, there is also massage, a spa, jacuzzi and gym.

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Why Remote Lands?

Exclusively Asia

With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.

Travelogues

An Asia-focused magazine brought to you by Remote Lands - a platform for adventure, luxury, and authenticity from experts and explorers around the continent.

What Others Say

Here is a small selection of the kind words our clients have said about us recently.

Party of four from Missouri & Tokyo

Party of four from Missouri & Tokyo

We appreciated traveling in remote areas...the slice-of-life experiences made the trip worthwhile.

Laos

Peter & Maria, London

Peter & Maria, London

We are very seasoned travellers and Remote Lands certainly delivered on our recent trip to Indochina.

Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam

Three couples from Mexico

Three couples from Mexico

A trip of a lifetime...There is no doubt we will choose to travel again with Remote Lands while in Asia.

Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos

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