Top Menu

Cambodia & Laos Encounter

Immerse yourself in the cultures of Cambodia and Laos on a 13-day tour through these beautiful countries. Explore the incredible Angkor complex, experience rural life with a local family, admire the French-style architecture of Phnom Penh and pay your respects with a visit to the Killing Fields. Then head to Laos and tour the breathtaking scenery around Vang Vieng before finishing up in the atmospheric city of Luang Prabang.

From $1,620 

Take the first step in your adventure now!

Enquire now
StartsSiem Reap, Cambodia
EndsLuang Prabang, Laos
RegionCambodia
Duration13 days
Tour OperatorIntrepid Travel
Tour Map
View Dates

Itinerary

Day 1 - Starting: Siem Reap & Finishing: Siem Reap

Sua s'dei! Welcome to Cambodia. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm on Day 1. You can arrive at any time during the day as there are no activities planned until this important meeting. Please check with the hotel reception for where and when it will take place, or check the reception notice boards. We'll be collecting your insurance details and next of kin information at this meeting, so please ensure you have all these details to provide to your leader. If you're going to be late, please inform the hotel reception. Siem Reap is the gateway to Angkor Wat, but it's not without its own charms. Perhaps start by hitting the local markets to try some delicious street food. Notes: If you can't arrange a flight that will have you arrive at the hotel by early evening, you may wish to arrive a day early so you're able to attend. We'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).

Day 2 - Starting: Siem Reap / Angkor Wat & Finishing: Siem Reap / Angkor Wat

Today you'll visit the world-famous Angkor complex with your guide. The ruins are scattered over an area of some 160 square kilometres; this is the biggest religious monument in the world. However, the main cluster of temples is close to Siem Reap, so you'll have plenty of time to fully appreciate the mind-blowing archaeological sites of Angkor Wat (the astounding main attraction), the Bayon (a marvel of many sculpted decorations) and Ta Prohm (the eerily beautiful temples covered in jungle).

Day 3 - Starting: Siem Reap & Finishing: Siem Reap

Enjoy free time in Siem Reap today. If you feel like some adventure, you can take the optional Flight of the Gibbon zip-line course, which gives you a bird's eye view of the rainforest, plus an adrenaline rush! Other options here include a visit to the sobering Landmine Museum – it's located a little further afield but is well worth the journey. In the evening you might want to see Phare the Cambodian Circus. Coming from vulnerable households, the performers have gained international recognition through their art practice. Like a Cambodian Cirque Du Soleil, modern Khmer tales mix theatre, music, dance, acrobatics, juggling, aerial acts, and contortion.

Day 4 - Starting: Kompong Thom Homestay & Finishing: Kompong Thom Homestay

Travel by private bus to Sambor Prei Kuk and your homestay (approximately 3.5 hours). You will embark on a tour of the village with your local guide. The guide will introduce you to the way of life of the local people, your homestay facilities and your hosts for tonight. Facilities are simple at your homestay, but this is a fantastic opportunity to experience everyday life in rural Cambodia. The temple ruins at Sambor Prei Kuk just nearby are some of the oldest in the country (dating back to the 6th century) and are well worth a visit (this is optional). In the evening, relax and unwind as you enjoy a traditional Khmer dinner with your host family.

Day 5 - Starting: Phnom Penh & Finishing: Phnom Penh

After breakfast, leave the village and travel to Phnom Penh in a private minibus (approximately 4 hours). Cambodia's capital is set on a major junction of the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers and boasts some fine examples of French-influenced architecture. This afternoon, enjoy some free time for optional activities. Perhaps explore Wat Phnom, a peaceful temple situated on a local hill. A great way to see the city's key landmarks is a cyclo tour, which generally covers the central market, US Embassy, Wat Phnom, Mekong river front, Independence Monument and Royal Palace. The National Museum, housed in a beautiful traditional building, is a great place to see some excellent Khmer craftmanship. If you're in the mood for shopping, stop in at the art-deco Psar Thmei (Central Market), or travel out to Psar Tuol Tom Pong (Russian Market) for the best range of local souvenirs.

Day 6 - Starting: Vientiane & Finishing: Vientiane

This morning you will learn about Cambodia's tragic past on a guided tour of the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a former school which served as a Khmer Rouge torture centre. Afterwards, head out to the Choeung Ek Memorial, where a stupa made up of some 8,000 human skulls marks the site of the infamous Killing Fields. This was the execution ground for the torture victims of Tuol Sleng. In the afternoon there will be some free time for optional activities. You might like to simply stroll along the famous Sisowath Quay and enjoy a coffee or cocktail at one of the many cafes while observing the busy river traffic. Then it's time for your flight to Vientiane (approximately 1.5 hours). Possibly Asia's most laid-back capital, Vientiane is a city where daily affairs are conducted at a relaxed pace. It also has an excellent, diverse food scene.

Day 7 - Starting: Vientiane & Finishing: Vientiane

Enjoy a guided walk around town this morning. Pay a visit to Wat Si Saket, a Buddhist temple believed to be the oldest still standing in Vientiane. You'll also see Victory Gate (Patuxai), otherwise known as the 'Vertical Runway' (as the US funds that were used to construct it were actually meant for airport upgrades). Climb up to the seventh storey for a nice view over Vientiane. Also stop in at COPE, an Intrepid Foundation-sponsored organisation that rehabilitates children who have been injured by unexploded ordnance. This is an excellent cause and a chance to learn more about Laos' devastating war history.

Day 8 - Starting: Vang Vieng & Finishing: Vang Vieng

Make the journey by public bus to Vang Vieng (approximately 3.5 hours). En route, take in scenes of small village life at various points along the hilly highway. When you arrive, you'll be greeted by stunning limestone karst scenery. These surrounding landscapes are the reason this town is known for its outdoor adventure culture. There are many fascinating caves to explore, some of which you can go swimming in. The classic Vang Vieng activity is to float down the lovely Nam Song on an old inflatable tractor tube. Hiking and cycling are all great ways to see the surrounding country.

Day 9 - Starting: Vang Vieng & Finishing: Vang Vieng

Set out on a bicycle today for an adventure further afield (around 24 kilometres). Along the way, you'll stop in at a Khmu village. The Khmu are one of the most populous ethnic peoples in Laos, and the majority of them live in the north. Say hello to the friendly locals of the village, then take a short trek (approximately 20 minutes) to the breathtaking Keng Yui waterfall. This is a great chance to relax and cool off with a refreshing swim.

Day 10 - Starting: Luang Prabang & Finishing: Luang Prabang

Today you will journey by private bus, winding your way through the beautiful mountains to Luang Prabang (approximately 8 hours). The scenery is especially amazing on this leg of the journey – a reward for enduring the windy roads! When you arrive, stretch your legs and take a walk to acquaint yourself with this exotic city. It's located at the confluence of the Mekong and Khan rivers. Luang Prabang's French colonial architecture, ornate Buddhist temples, unique markets and riverside ambience make for quite a combination. It's easy to get around on foot or by bicycle, which are cheap to hire.

Day 11 - Starting: Luang Prabang & Finishing: Luang Prabang

Enjoy a guided tour around the Traditional Art & Ethnology Centre, a local non-profit museum dedicated to preserving Laos' many ethnic tribal cultures. You will also head out of town to the beautiful Kuang Si Falls, where pale turquoise waters cascade over limestone formations. The lovely pool at the base of the falls is perfect for an afternoon swim. For those who are more active, it is possible to leave early and trek to the waterfall (there will be an additional cost for the transport, village fee and local guide). If the timing's right, you might catch feeding time at the Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre. The centre has been set up to protect, preserve and enrich the lives of Asiatic bears who have been rescued from trafficking.

Day 12 - Starting: Luang Prabang & Finishing: Luang Prabang

Enjoy a day of free time. Consider climbing to the top of Mt Phousi to visit the temple and catch the sweeping views over the town. This is best done early in the morning, for the sunset – and to beat the heat. Later, don't miss Luang Prabang's excellent markets, such as the Dara Market (central market) and the Night Market (the latter has a beautiful range of handmade local textiles). Don't miss the excellent food stalls in the evening – these are renowned for their delicious, diverse and inexpensive vegetarian cuisine. If you have time, take a long-boat ride across the river to visit a traditional Laotian village. Perhaps end the day with a Lao massage and herbal sauna.

Day 13 - Starting: Luang Prabang & Finishing: Luang Prabang

There are no activities planned for today, and you are free to depart the accommodation at any time.

View Dates

More Information

Highlights

  • Temple hop through the world-famous Angkor complex
  • Experience rural Cambodian life on a family homestay
  • Tour the infamous Killing Fields
  • Swim in the pools of the Keng Yui waterfall
  • Explore the historic city of Luang Prabang
  • Shop up a storm at the Dara Market

Immerse yourself in the cultures of Cambodia and Laos on a 12-day tour through these beautiful countries. Explore the incredible Angkor complex, experience rural life with a local family, admire the French-style architecture of Phnom Penh and pay your respects with a visit to the Killing Fields. Then head to Laos and tour the breathtaking scenery around Vang Vieng before finishing up in the atmospheric city of Luang Prabang.

Day 1 Accommodation

Hotel (1 nights)

Day 2 Included Activities

  • Siem Reap - Angkor Temples Guided Tour
  • Siem Reap - One day Angkor ticket

Day 2 Accommodation

Hotel (1 nights)

Day 3 Accommodation

Hotel (1 nights)

Day 3 Optional Activities

  • Siem Reap - Tonle Sap Lake Boat Trip - USD 15
  • Siem Reap - Urban Adventure Cambodian Cook-Out - USD 48
  • Siem Reap - Flight of the Gibbon Ziplining - USD 129
  • Siem Reap - Landmine Museum - USD 5
  • Siem Reap - Phare Cambodia Circus Ticket - USD 15

Day 4 Accommodation

Homestay (1 nights)

Day 4 Optional Activities

  • Kampong Thom - Sambor Prei Kuk Temple - USD 3

Day 5 Accommodation

Hotel (1 nights)

Day 5 Optional Activities

  • Phnom Penh - Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda - USD 10
  • Phnom Penh - Cyclo tour - USD 4
  • Phnom Penh - Wat Phnom - USD 2
  • Phnom Penh - National Museum - USD 5

Day 6 Included Activities

  • Phnom Penh - Tuol Sleng Prison Museum (S21)
  • Phnom Penh - Choeung Ek (Killing Fields)

Day 6 Accommodation

Hotel (1 nights)

Day 7 Included Activities

  • Vientiane - Wat Sri Saket
  • Vientiane - COPE visit
  • Vientiane - Victory Gate (Patuxai)

Day 7 Accommodation

Hotel (1 nights)

Day 8 Accommodation

Hotel (1 nights)

Day 9 Included Activities

  • Vang Vieng - Cycling tour

Day 9 Accommodation

Hotel (1 nights)

Day 10 Accommodation

Guesthouse (1 nights)

Day 11 Included Activities

  • Luang Prabang - Kuang Si Waterfalls
  • Luang Prabang - Traditional Arts & Ethnology Centre

Day 11 Accommodation

Guesthouse (1 nights)

Day 12 Accommodation

Guesthouse (1 nights)

Day 12 Optional Activities

  • Luang Prabang - Pak Ou Cave - USD 2
  • Luang Prabang - Mt Phousi entry fee - USD 2

Included Meals

Breakfast: 9

Dinner: 1

Updating availability

Departs onEnds onPricePassengersReservation
Sep 25, 2016Oct 07, 2016from USD2080
5 spaces left
Enquire now
Oct 09, 2016Oct 21, 2016from USD1620
9 spaces left
Enquire now
Oct 23, 2016Nov 04, 2016from USD1944
0 spaces left
Enquire now
Nov 06, 2016Nov 18, 2016from USD1944
0 spaces left
Enquire now
Nov 13, 2016Nov 25, 2016from USD1944
6 spaces left
Enquire now
Nov 20, 2016Dec 02, 2016from USD1944
5 spaces left
Enquire now
Dec 18, 2016Dec 30, 2016from USD2240
9 spaces left
Enquire now
Dec 25, 2016Jan 06, 2017from USD2240
7 spaces left
Enquire now
Jan 01, 2017Jan 13, 2017from USD2115
0 spaces left
Enquire now
Jan 08, 2017Jan 20, 2017from USD2095
6 spaces left
Enquire now
Jan 29, 2017Feb 10, 2017from USD1814
6 spaces left
Enquire now
Feb 12, 2017Feb 24, 2017from USD1814
12 spaces left
Enquire now
Feb 26, 2017Mar 10, 2017from USD1814
12 spaces left
Enquire now
Mar 12, 2017Mar 24, 2017from USD1814
10 spaces left
Enquire now
Apr 09, 2017Apr 21, 2017from USD1814
12 spaces left
Enquire now
Apr 16, 2017Apr 28, 2017from USD1814
12 spaces left
Enquire now
May 21, 2017Jun 02, 2017from USD1814
10 spaces left
Enquire now
Jun 18, 2017Jun 30, 2017from USD2015
12 spaces left
Enquire now
Jul 16, 2017Jul 28, 2017from USD2015
12 spaces left
Enquire now
Aug 13, 2017Aug 25, 2017from USD2015
12 spaces left
Enquire now
Sep 10, 2017Sep 22, 2017from USD2015
12 spaces left
Enquire now
Sep 24, 2017Oct 06, 2017from USD2015
12 spaces left
Enquire now
Oct 08, 2017Oct 20, 2017from USD2015
12 spaces left
Enquire now
Oct 22, 2017Nov 03, 2017from USD2015
12 spaces left
Enquire now
Oct 29, 2017Nov 10, 2017from USD2015
10 spaces left
Enquire now
Nov 12, 2017Nov 24, 2017from USD2015
12 spaces left
Enquire now
Nov 19, 2017Dec 01, 2017from USD2015
12 spaces left
Enquire now
Nov 26, 2017Dec 08, 2017from USD2015
12 spaces left
Enquire now
Dec 10, 2017Dec 22, 2017from USD2015
12 spaces left
Enquire now
Dec 24, 2017Jan 05, 2018from USD2015
12 spaces left
Enquire now
Dec 31, 2017Jan 12, 2018from USD2015
12 spaces left
Enquire now

Get Inspired

Chile’s Atacama Desert

The Atacama Desert is one of the world’s most spectacular deserts, with fields of steaming geysers, massive smoking conical volcanoes, craggy mountains and flamingo-dotted turquoise lagoons.

Read More

Learn something new on your next journey

There are thousands of learning holidays to choose from in all corners of the globe, but we’ve rounded up a list of some of our favourites to get you inspired.

Read More

Hot air ballooning around the world

There is nothing as perfect as seeing the world from a bird’s eye view in a hot air balloon. Here are a few places we recommend you go to where you can float above the clouds and feel on top of the world.

Read More

Summer Cruise around Svalbard in Norway

A journey through the fjords, glaciers and islands aboard a cruise ship in Norway.

Read More

Download PDF

We'll send you your PDF link straight to your email address!

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

  Ask a Question

If you have any questions about this tour, please don't hesitate to contact us 24/7 and we will get back to you!

  Speak to a consultant

We are there for you! Our expert consultants have the knowledge and expertise to guide you – get in touch with us!

from $1,620

Take the first step in your adventure now!

Enquire now

from$1,620  


*Currency conversion is estimate only

COMPARE TOURS

  • No products to compare
Clear all Compare

Why choose Tour Ninjas?

Best Price Guaranteed
No Booking or Card Fees
Wide Range of Tours
We're here to Help

Tour Ninjas

Read more about us

Enquire now


Hold my seat for 48 hours

  • How long do you have? Do you have particular must see?
  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Download PDF

We'll send you your PDF link straight to your email address

Tour PDF Request

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Pin It on Pinterest

Share This