Bike, Hike & Kayak Laos and Cambodia

Sabaidee! Welcome to Luang Prabang, Laos. On arrival at Luang Prabang International Airport, you will be greeted by your driver, who will assist you with your transfer to the hotel. Please look for the World Expeditions sign in the arrivals hall. After checking in, you’ll have time to unwind and settle into the relaxed pace of Luang Prabang. This peaceful town, known for its shimmering temple roofs, colonial architecture, and stunning mountain backdrop, has been recognised by UNESCO as the best-preserved traditional city in Southeast Asia. Later, you’ll meet your guide in the hotel lobby for a trip briefing before enjoying a welcome dinner. Overnight: Sala Prabang or similar

Meals:  D

After breakfast, you’ll cycle to Ban Xang Khong, known for its silk weaving and traditional Saa paper making. Continue north to Ban Pak Ou, where you’ll cross the river to visit the Pak Ou Caves (Tam Ting), home to thousands of gold-lacquered Buddha statues in various positions like meditation, teaching, and nirvana. After exploring the caves, enjoy a scenic cruise downstream along the Mekong River back to Luang Prabang. En route, you’ll stop at Ban Xanghai, a village famous for producing Laolao, the local rice wine. On arrival in Luang Prabang, you’ll visit Wat Xieng Thong, the city’s most magnificent temple, noted for its stunning Tree of Life mural. To finish the day, climb the 328 steps to the top of Mount Phousi for panoramic views of the city, its temples, and the surrounding mountains. You’ll also have the chance to explore the Night Market, where local textiles, street food, and crafts await. Cycling: approx. 25–30 km (15.5–18.5 miles), +92m/302ft, approx. 2.5 - 3 hrs Overnight: Sala Prabang or similar

Meals:  B

Today, head by vehicle to Ban Long Lao, a Hmong minority village, where you can wander and learn more about life in this rural Lao and Hmong community. Begin your trek with a stroll through paddy fields, then enter dense jungle rich in diverse tree species. After a picturesque three-hour hike through the forest’s rolling terrain, you'll reach the breathtaking Khuang Si Waterfalls. At the falls, visit the Free the Bears Sanctuary to witness the dedicated work to protect Asiatic Black bears rescued from illegal wildlife trade. Opened in 2003, the sanctuary houses bears taken as cubs, now thriving in a safe, caring environment. Khuang Si Waterfalls, with its cool, crystal-clear pools cascading over limestone terraces, offers an idyllic escape from the heat. Enjoy a refreshing dip in the pools or explore the upper forest trails surrounding the falls. Return to Luang Prabang by road. Hiking: ~13km/8mi, +378m/1240ft, approx. 3 hrs Driving: ~ approx. 2 hrs Overnight: Sala Prabang or similar

Meals:  B,L

A highly recommended early start provides the fantastic opportunity to witness and participate in the captivating centuries old daily tradition of the alms giving ceremony, Tak Bat. Before first light, hundreds of saffron-clad monks file out from the old town's 35 temples to collect their daily alms (ubiquitous sticky rice) from faithful local residents. Following the ceremony we wander back through the morning market where locals go to buy their fresh produce for the day ahead. We'll head back to the hotel for breakfast, some time to relax and refresh before heading out for our day's adventure. You'll begin your adventure with a transfer to the banks of the Nam Khan River, where a short boat ride takes you across to the start of your hike. As you trek beneath a jungle canopy, you'll pause to visit a local rubber tree plantation and learn the traditional technique of harvesting latex. Continuing through the scenic trails, you'll arrive at a Khmu village nestled in the mountains, where a warm welcome from your host family awaits. Here, you'll savour a delicious lunch featuring authentic local dishes, offering a true taste of the region’s rich culture. After the village visit we continue hiking down to the stunning multi-tiered Tad Sae Waterfall, where you can relax, explore and enjoy a swim (seasonal as water levels are low from February to July). Finish the journey with a short cruise by long boat down the river, followed by a vehicle transfer back to Luang Prabang. The rest of the day is yours to relax and enjoy at your leisure in the historic town of Luang Prabang.Please note: The alms giving ceremony this morning is a daily religious event not a show for tourists. Therefore, please be respectful - dress conservatively, turn camera flashes off and carefully follow the instructions of your guide. Hiking: ~ 11km/5mi, approx. 3-4 hrs Driving: ~ approx. 1.5 hrs Overnight: Sala Prabang or similar

Meals:  B,L

Today, you leave Luang Prabang and fly to Pakse, where you’ll journey to Don Khong, part of the stunning 4000 Islands region in the Mekong River. As the largest of these islands, Don Khong is home to Muang Khong, a charming former French settlement. Over the next few days, you’ll soak in the beauty of this tranquil region, exploring your island home and its traditional villages by bicycle or on foot. PLEASE NOTE: This internal flight schedule is subject to change and may require a transfer in Vientiane, Laos. Any schedule changes may result in an additional surcharge. If you are on a direct flight and time permits, there may be an opportunity to visit the Wat Phou temple en route to Don Khong. Drive: 3hrs (Pakse airport - Wat Phou & Don Khong Island) Overnight: Pon Arena Hotel or similar

Meals:  B

Following an early breakfast, you’ll take a boat downstream to Don Det, where your kayaking trip begins. Your guide will start with basic paddle instructions and a safety briefing before you set off towards the western side of Don Det, gliding past small islands north of Don Khong. After about an hour on the water, you’ll navigate some minor rapids, and if you're feeling adventurous, you can take on a few more exciting ones. Next, you’ll stop at the pier and take an approximate 25-minute walk to Khon Pa Soi Waterfall, where you’ll have time to explore and take in the breathtaking views. Returning to your kayak, you’ll continue paddling to a secluded spot for a BBQ picnic lunch. This peaceful location, only occasionally visited by local fishermen, is the perfect place to unwind, take a swim, and soak in the serene beauty of your surroundings. Kayaking: ~2hrs Overnight: Sala Done Khone or similar

Meals:  B,L

This morning, say goodbye to the beautiful 4,000 Islands as you cruise for 30 minutes from Don Khone to Ban Nakasang on the mainland. From here, a car takes you to the spectacular Khone Phapheng Waterfalls, the largest in Southeast Asia. Take some time to marvel at the powerful waters crashing over massive boulders. After your visit, it’s a short drive to the Lao-Cambodian border - Tropaeng Kreal (Stung Treng) border crossing, where you’ll bid farewell to your Lao guide. Your Cambodian guide and driver will be ready to welcome you—Sua s’dei! Welcome to Cambodia! You’ll then journey on to Stung Treng, with an exciting stop along the way to kayak across the Sekong River to Hang Khou Ban village. Here, you can savour Krolan, a local delicacy of sticky rice with coconut milk, salt, and soybeans, cooked in bamboo. Watch the villagers prepare this popular snack, and then relax and enjoy a stunning sunset view from your riverside accommodation. Kayaking: ~2hrs Overnight: Mekong Bird Resort or similar

Meals:  B

After breakfast, you begin your journey west toward Siem Reap. Along the way, you’ll stop to explore the incredible ancient temple complex of Koh Ker, once the capital of the Khmer Empire from 928 to 944 AD. Surrounded by dense jungle, this archaeological site offers a glimpse into a unique period of the Angkor era. The highlight here is Prasat Thom, a majestic seven-tiered pyramid that rises nearly 40 metres above the surrounding forest. After taking in the wonders of Koh Ker, you’ll continue to Siem Reap, the gateway to Angkor, arriving in the late afternoon. The rest of the day is yours to relax and explore at your leisure. Driving: 325km/202mi, approx. 6 hrs (excludes visit to Koh Ker temple) Overnight: Baitong Heritage Hotel or similar

Meals:  B

Meet your guide in the hotel lobby at 4:30 AM and set off for the Angkor Archaeological Park. Find the perfect viewpoint at Angkor Wat, sit back, and watch as the sun rises over the temple’s majestic silhouette. Once the sun is up, you’ll return to your hotel for breakfast. Today, you’ll spend a full day exploring the world-renowned UNESCO World Heritage site of Angkor Archaeological Park by bike—the perfect way to immerse yourself in this awe-inspiring place. To beat the crowds, you’ll start early and cycle to Ta Prohm, a temple unlike any other in Angkor. Left largely untouched since its rediscovery, it remains a photogenic and atmospheric maze of tree roots entwined with ancient ruins, creating a mesmerizing jungle setting. Next, you’ll ride to the towering Ta Keo temple before passing through one of the four grand gatehouses leading into the ancient walled city of Angkor Thom. Once the most populous city in the world under the reign of Jayavarman VII, Angkor Thom was home to over two million people at its peak. At its heart stands Bayon, a breathtaking 12th-century masterpiece. You’ll marvel at its intricate bas-reliefs and 54 towers adorned with 216 enigmatic stone faces. After a break for lunch, your journey culminates at the most extraordinary temple of all—Angkor Wat. The pinnacle of Khmer ingenuity, this vast three-tiered structure is crowned by five lotus-shaped towers rising 65 metres above the ground. As the largest religious monument in the world, Angkor Wat has captivated visitors for centuries. With its intricate carvings and iconic silhouette, it offers countless opportunities for unforgettable photos, making it the ultimate highlight of your Siem Reap adventure. Note: Appropriate attire when visiting Angkor temples is trousers or shorts which cover the knees and tops which cover the shoulders. Visitors are frequently turned away from temples when wearing revealing clothing. Cycling: ~40km/25mi (flat easy terrain), +19m/62ft, approx. 2-2.5 hrs Overnight: Baitong Heritage Hotel or similar

Meals:  B

After an early breakfast, you’ll set off for the Kulen Mountain Range, located about 60 km from Siem Reap. Phnom Kulen is considered Cambodia’s most sacred mountain, where King Jayavarman II proclaimed himself the King of Kings and established the Khmer Empire’s independence from Java in the early 9th century. Upon reaching the base of Kulen Mountain at Preah Ang Jub, you’ll begin your trek from the foot of the mountain. Your journey starts with a visit to a serene Buddhist temple before following a trail through the lush jungle as you ascend. Along the way, you’ll arrive at the Valley of a Thousand Lingas, where sacred carvings lie beneath the flowing river water. Continuing your trek, you’ll reach Preah Ang Thom, home to a magnificent 15-metre-long reclining Buddha, carved from a single sandstone block. Your final stop is at a stunning waterfall, where you can take a refreshing swim, relax, and soak in the breathtaking jungle scenery. Afterward, you’ll return to Siem Reap by vehicle, arriving in the late afternoon. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Note: The trekking route passes through jungle terrain, so wearing long clothing that covers your arms and legs is recommended. Bring an extra set of clothes if you plan to swim at the waterfall, along with sunscreen and mosquito repellent. Hiking: ~11km/7mi, rugged, forested & mountainous, +500m/1640ft, approx. 3-4 hrs Overnight: Baitong Heritage Hotel or similar

Meals:  B

After breakfast, you will cycle to the vast wetlands near Tonle Sap, Asia's largest freshwater lake. On arrival, monks in brightly coloured robes will bless you for good luck before you kayak through the floating village. The locals will greet you with warm smiles, and you'll witness their ingenious ways of living with the changing water levels. Some villages build houses on stilts, but Mechrey is a floating village that moves with the water's rise and fall. You'll kayak through the village, learning about the daily lives of the residents. At the village's end, a local host will welcome you for a traditional lunch. After lunch, you'll continue kayaking to the exotic mangroves during the high water season, generally from July/August to November, or along Tonle Sap Lake during the low water season, generally from December to June, spotting rare birds in this tranquil setting. The dates of the high and low seasons vary each year and depend on rainfall and water levels, which may change unexpectedly at any time. Note: If water levels are too low for kayaking at Mechrey Floating Village, you will switch to a delightful boat ride. This ensures you still experience the stunning scenery and vibrant culture in a unique way. The rest of the day will remain unchanged, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty and wonders of this incredible region. Our return journey will begin with a boat transfer, followed by a final bike ride back to Siem Reap. In the evening, we’ll enjoy a farewell Khmer BBQ dinner at a local restaurant. Cycling: ~50km/31mi, +10m/33ft, approx. 3.5 hrs Kayaking: ~3hrs Overnight: Baitong Heritage Hotel or simila

Meals:  B,L,D

This morning is free at leisure in Siem Reap. Relax at the hotel or venture out to explore the markets, boutique shops, cafes and restaurants until its time to transfer to the airport for your outbound flight. Trip concludes.

Meals:  B