Discover Bangkok’s nightlife, kayak in Vang Vieng and venture into the caves near Pai, and hang out with monks in Luang Prabang.

When it comes to comparing Thailand and Laos, it’s impossible to decide which destination is best. The locals are equally lovely, the monuments match in magnificence, and the tastes are tied in deliciousness. Luckily for you, there’s no need for a contest because on this trip you experience the best of both worlds. Discover Bangkok’s soulful sights and sinful nightlife, get your adrenaline fix by kayaking in Vang Vieng and venturing into the deep caves near Pai, and hang out with the majestic monks in Luang Prabang.

We spend 14 days exploring Thailand, Laos. We visit Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pai, Chiang Khong, Pak Beng, Luang Prabang, Vang Veng, Vientiane.

What Is Included...

  • Your legendary Busabout crew

  • 12 nights’ accommodation

  • 1 overnight transfer

  • All transport

  • 12 breakfasts and 3 lunches

  • Pai Canyon and Memorial Bridge stop

  • Cabaret Show in Chiang Mai

  • Mt. Poussi Sunset Trip in Luang Prabang

  • Entrance to Kuang Si Falls in Luang Prabang

  • Kayaking trip in Vang Vieng

  • Visit to Ock Pop Tok Laos Handicrafts Centre in Luang Prabang

  • Visit to the COPE Centre in Vientiane

Trip Highlights
  • Experience the spectacular scenery of Pai
  • Sail down the mighty Mekong river
  • Swim at the beautiful Kuang Si Falls

Check these off your bucket list

Kuang Si Falls Kuang Si Falls
Wat Rong Khun temple Wat Rong Khun temple
Palaces and temples of Bangkok Palaces and temples of Bangkok

14 Day Itinerary

Thailand and Laos Adventure 14 day full itinerary breakdown and route map

Day 1

Bangkok

Yep, the time has finally arrived for your adventure to begin! Meet with your awesome Busabout guide and fellow passengers in the sprawling capital of Bangkok and get excited for all the good times to come. We gather tonight in the reception area before heading out to explore the infamous (even by Bangkok standards) backpacker area of Khaosan Road. Head out into the night for the experience of a lifetime and start the adventure off with a bang.

Day 2

Bangkok to Chiang Mai (overnight transfer)

The day is yours to explore this vibrant capital! See the home of Thai royalty at the sprawling Grand Palace complex, marvel at the intricate design of Wat Pho temple, enjoy a cruise along the Chao Phraya river before visiting the splendid Temple of Dawn, or partake in some retail therapy at the weekend market of Chatuchak. Tonight, we’ll catch our overnight transfer to the northern province of Chiang Mai. Lay back, get comfy, and get some rest for the day ahead! - Breakfast included

Day 3

Chiang Mai - Pai

Our overnight transfer arrives in Chiang Mai this morning and we have some time to grab breakfast, before beginning our scenic meander north to the village of Pai. As we wind along the sweeping turns en route to Pai, we have a stop at the spectacular Pai Canyon! Take a few snaps and relish the panorama before we depart for our home for the next two nights, the laid-back town of Pai. Upon arrival we head out on a short orientation walk before checking in to the hotel. Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring, relaxing in a geothermal pool at the hotel, or take a stroll along the Pai River and catch a glimpse of the local elephants. We meet in reception this evening before heading into town to visit the numerous markets and sample some delicious Thai cuisine. Then it’s on to a local bar for a few relaxing drinks.

Day 4

Pai

Relax by the pool, shop for some Thai treasures, kick back in one of the many fine local watering holes, try some delicious street food, or just get lost in the rich natural beauty of Pai’s surrounding wilderness. If you’d like to join us today, we have an incredible optional excursion with a trek through the jungle! See the sights and sounds of the wilderness and meet remote villagers as we make our way through the jungle and onward to explore the breathtaking Lod Caves on a bamboo raft. Later this evening, relax with a drink or two in one of the local bars. - Breakfast included

Day 5

Pai to Chiang Mai

It’s time to return to Chiang Mai this morning. Along the way we’ll have a stop at an ancient temple, the oldest in the area, led by a local guide. We offer two optional excursions today, starting with a cooking class to grasp the complexities of Thai cuisine, and ending with a bone crunching Muay Thai show to get the adrenaline pumping! Afterwards, the night is yours to spend as you wish, so get some rest for the day ahead or join us at a local bar. - Breakfast included

Day 6

Chiang Mai

Today is yours to soak up the sights and sounds of Chiang Mai. Spend your free time wandering the Old Town whilst shopping and exploring, head out to the gilded hillside temple of Wat Doi Suthep, or visit Catmosphere and enjoy a purrfect beverage with some furry friends. If you’d like a truly memorable experience, join the optional Ethical Elephant Experience! Learn about the animals from local experts, and spend time feeding and bathing the gentle giants. Lunch is even included! This evening we head out into the night markets for some retail therapy and a meal, before heading off for a unique Thai cultural experience with a twist at an included cabaret show. - Breakfast included

Day 7

Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai to Chiang Khong

Set your alarm, we depart early this morning for the mountainous district of Chiang Khong! We’ll stop on the way in the picturesque Chiang Rai district, where we’ll grab a quick lunch before visiting the ivory temple of Wat Rong Khun. The old dilapidated building was completely renovated by a local artist, and the result is this incredible White Temple. Then it’s time to make our way to the thundering falls of Khun Korn. The route is very slippery, so make sure you have decent shoes on! Explore the surrounding jungles, take some pics and have a refreshing swim before we head towards the border with Laos. We arrive into Chiang Khong and check-in to our accommodation, then have a chilled evening by the Mekong River. This is our last night in Thailand! - Breakfast included

Day 8

Chiang Rai to Pakbeng

We have another early start today, to make sure we don’t get stuck at the border queues! After passing through immigration we cross the bridge into Laos. Then climb aboard our long boat on the mighty Mekong River - it’s time to kick back and relax as we cruise along the meandering river. Take plenty of photos and capture the natural beauty of Laos, listen to music, enjoy an included on-board lunch and chat with your travel mates as we make our way to the village of Pakbeng. We arrive in the early evening before strolling through the markets of the village. Tonight, enjoy a refreshing Beerlao or some fiery Lao Lao as we watch the sunset over the Mekong, before heading out to a restaurant. - Breakfast and lunch included

Day 9

Pakbeng to Luang Prabang

Chow down on some breakfast before we make our watery way east to the UNESCO-listed villages that form the city of Luang Prabang. Along the way we’ll stop at the Pak Ou Caves, which are home to hundreds of miniature Buddha statues assembled in various poses. After another fantastic included on-board buffet lunch, we arrive at Luang Prabang port. Explore the streets, the numerous markets and #instaworthy temples, and tonight we watch the sunset from high atop Mount Poussi Later on, it’s time to check out the night markets. - Breakfast and lunch included

Day 10

Luang Prabang

Get ready for an absolutely unmissable trip to the cascading Kuang Si Falls to soak up the breathtaking scenery and take some jealousy inducing photos for your feed! Kick back, relax and have a swim in these picturesque surroundings. On the way back, we have a stop at Ock Pop Tok. This is a vibrant community of artisans, with many quality handmade trinkets on offer. Grab yourself some souvenirs while you can! - Breakfast included

Day 11

Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng

Up and at ‘em, this morning we have a unique local experience, giving alms to the procession of monks as they make their way through the city streets on their daily trek. Then we hit the road and make our way south for the majestic karst hills of Vang Vieng. Relax and stare out at the rolling hills and lush greenery of the countryside. Next up we enjoy a delicious lunch before we explore the town. This evening we head out for a tasty dinner by the river and a few warm up drinks. Vang Vieng is a renowned party town, so if you’re up for it, head out to experience an unforgettable night with your Busabout mates. - Breakfast included

Day 12

Vang Vieng

Gear up for the exciting included day trip, kayaking the Nam Song river! We cruise along this refreshing lifeline and take in all of the natural beauty of Laos. Wind your way through shimmering rice paddies with stops on the way to explore caves, frolic in the water and hike to stunning viewpoints. When we’ve worked up an appetite, we’ll head out for a delicious dinner and have another night of revelry in this quirky paradise. - Breakfast and lunch included

Day 13

Vang Vieng to Vientiane

The time has come to set a course south for the Laotian capital of Vientiane. We have a stop on the way at the Ban Houei Mo, a local fish market. Have a wander and get a taste of rural life in Laos! Then it’s onwards to Vientiane, where we’ll make our arrival around midday. Stretch your legs and explore with your group, as we check out the humanitarian COPE Centre, the Patuxai War Monument, and Buddha Park. Tonight, you’ve got the chance to wander the night markets and pick up any last-minute souvenirs to take home with you before we band together for our final night of the trip and head out for an incredible send off to the adventure of a lifetime! - Breakfast included

Day 14

Vientiane

Check-out is after breakfast. We hope to see you again! - Breakfast included

See full itinerary

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