Itinerary - Laos - Laung Prabang to Vientiane

From golden temples to the Mekong

Day 1: Luang Prabang

Upon arrival at Luang Prabang International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. After checking in, the remainder of the day is free to relax after your journey or to begin exploring this UNESCO World Heritage town at your own pace.

Luang Prabang is renowned for its tranquil atmosphere, golden temples, and French colonial architecture set against a backdrop of mountains and rivers. Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to wander through the quiet streets, visit the lively night market, or enjoy a riverside meal along the Mekong.

In the evening, we gather for a welcome meeting where you will meet your tour leader and fellow riders. We’ll go over the itinerary, answer any questions, and prepare for the adventure ahead.

Accommodation: Hotel (D)

Day 2: Luang Prabang 

This morning we focus on preparing for the cycling journey ahead. Our team will assist with bike fitting, ensuring that your saddle height, handlebars, and gear setup are comfortable and adjusted to your needs. For those bringing their own bikes, there will be time for assembly and checks; for those using provided bikes, we’ll make sure everything is dialed in before the first ride.

The remainder of the day is free to explore Luang Prabang. You might climb Mount Phousi for panoramic views, stroll through temples such as Wat Xieng Thong, or simply enjoy a coffee at a shaded café while soaking in the town’s unique charm. 

In the evening, enjoy the relaxed pace of the city—perhaps browsing the night market. Tomorrow we begin the ride, leaving Luang Prabang behind as we head into the countryside.

Accommodation: Guest House (B) 

Day 3: Luang Prabang – Muang Nan  

We start with a short transfer out of Luang Prabang. Todays route leads us along quiet backroads, much of it unpaved, winding through shaded woodland, open valleys, and small farming villages. Along the way, we’re greeted by locals, children waving as we pass, and the occasional water buffalo meandering across the track. The scenery blends charm and serenity, with stilted houses and rice fields set against sweeping mountain backdrops.

By afternoon, we roll into Muang Nan, a peaceful town where life moves slowly and authentically. Tonight, we enjoy simple comforts and warm local hospitality — the perfect welcome back to the saddle.

Cycling Distance: 48km (30 miles)
Total Climb: 840m (2,755ft) 
Total Descent: 920m (3,018ft)
Accommodation: Guest House (B,L,D) 

Day 4: Muang Nan - Kasi

 We begin the day with a short transfer up the Phoukaolak Pass, sparing ourselves the toughest climb and starting high in the mountains. From here, the riding feels truly rewarding: a day of long, flowing downhills balanced with a few rolling climbs.

The route covers 650 meters of ascent but rewards us with an exhilarating 1,950 meters of descent, winding through remote valleys and limestone peaks. Villages appear along the roadside, where children wave and farmers pause from their work to greet us. The scenery shifts constantly—from jungle-clad slopes to open farmland and dramatic karst cliffs.

By afternoon we roll into Kasi, a quiet market town set in a fertile valley surrounded by mountains. It’s the perfect place to relax after a day of thrilling descents and to prepare for the next stage of our Laotian adventure.

Cycling Distance: 46.5km (29 miles)
Total Climb: 650m (2,132ft) 
Total Descent: 1,950m (6,397ft)
Accommodation: Guest House (B,L,D) 

Day 5: Kasi - Vang Vieng

Today’s ride takes us through some of the most iconic landscapes in Laos. Leaving Kasi, the road follows a series of valleys framed by towering limestone mountains and lush green rice fields. The riding is varied but not overly demanding, with a balance of gentle climbs and rolling terrain that keeps the legs moving without the punishing gradients of previous days.

As we approach Vang Vieng, the scenery becomes truly spectacular: jagged karst cliffs rise dramatically from the plain, and the Nam Song River winds its way through the valley. This stretch is one of the most photographed in Laos, and it’s easy to see why—it feels like cycling straight into a postcard.

By afternoon, we arrive in Vang Vieng, a lively riverside town known for its natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere. Once a backpacker hub, it has transformed into a destination for outdoor adventure and serene landscapes. After checking into our hotel, you’ll have time to unwind, perhaps with a drink overlooking the river as the sun sets behind the limestone peaks.

Cycling Distance: 58.3km (36 miles)
Total Climb: 490m (1,607ft) 
Total Descent: 660m (2,165ft)
Accommodation: Guest House (B,L,D) 

Day 6: Vang Vieng

Today is yours to enjoy the natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere of Vang Vieng at your own pace. You may wish to take a leisurely stroll along the Nam Song River, enjoy the view of the dramatic limestone peaks, or relax in one of the riverside cafés.

For those seeking adventure, Vang Vieng offers plenty: you might kayak on the river, explore caves hidden among the karsts, or take a short hike for sweeping views of the surrounding valley. Alternatively, simply rest and recharge—wander the small town, browse local shops, or enjoy a traditional Lao massage.

This pause in Vang Vieng is the perfect opportunity to relax after several days of riding and to prepare for the next stage of our journey south.

Accommodation: Guest House (B) 

Day 7: Vang Vieng – Muang Feuang

After soaking in the beauty of Vang Vieng, we set out on a quieter stage that follows the Nam Song River before heading deeper into rural Laos. The ride begins with dramatic views of Vang Vieng’s famous limestone karsts fading into the distance as we follow a more peaceful road south.

The terrain today is undulating but never extreme—rolling hills, river crossings, and stretches of open farmland framed by jungle-covered mountains. With less traffic, the pace feels relaxed, and the scenery shifts between rice paddies, bamboo groves, and small stilted villages where life moves at a gentle rhythm.

By afternoon, we arrive in Muang Feuang, a small riverside town set against a backdrop of mountains and winding waterways. Far removed from the bustle of Vang Vieng, it’s a place where sunsets linger over the river and evenings are spent in simple, laid-back surroundings.

This stage offers a balance of rewarding riding and cultural immersion, setting us up perfectly for the next part of the journey.

Cycling Distance: 91km (56 miles)
Total Climb: 720m (2,362ft) 
Total Descent: 740m (2,427ft)
Accommodation: Guest House (B,L,D) 

 Day 8: Muang Feuang – Ban Vang

We continue south today, cycling deeper into rural Laos on a stage that blends quiet roads, rolling hills, and authentic village life. Leaving Muang Feuang, the morning ride follows gentle terrain along the river before climbing gradually into low hills covered with jungle and farmland.

This is a day where the beauty is found in the details: wooden stilt houses shaded by banana trees, farmers working in rice paddies, and children running out to greet passing cyclists. The pace is steady, with undulating climbs and descents that keep the ride varied but never extreme.

By afternoon, we arrive in Ban Vang, a small community surrounded by farmland and dramatic limestone ridges. Removed from the bustle of larger towns, Ban Vang offers a glimpse into everyday rural life, where the rhythm is set by the river and the fields. It’s a tranquil stopover, giving us a chance to rest and prepare for the final stages of our journey.

Cycling Distance: 89km (55 miles)
Total Climb: 590m (1,935ft) 
Total Descent: 610m (2,001ft)
Accommodation: Guest House (B,L,D) 

 Day 9: Ban Vang – Vientiane

After breakfast, we set off on our final day of cycling, following the main road that gently winds alongside the Mekong River. This peaceful stretch offers panoramic views across the water to Thailand on the opposite bank, with glimpses of riverside villages, fishing boats, and lush vegetation along the river’s edge. The route is mostly flat with a few gentle undulations, allowing us to enjoy the scenery at a relaxed pace.

By midday, we arrive in Ban Pak Ton, where we enjoy a celebratory lunch beside the river. From here, we transfer the last 45 km into Vientiane, the laid-back Lao capital. With its blend of golden temples, French colonial villas, and bustling riverside cafés, Vientiane provides the perfect place to conclude our journey.

Cycling Distance: 76km (47 miles)
Total Climb: 490m (1,607ft) 
Total Descent: 510m (1,673ft)
Accommodation: Guest House (B,L,D) 

 Day 10: Vientiane – Departure home

Enjoy your final morning at leisure in Vientiane before your airport transfer. If time allows, take the opportunity to explore the laid-back charm of Laos’ capital city. You might visit Pha That Luang, the country’s most important national monument, or admire the colonial architecture and riverside views along Fa Ngum Road.