PtkkrBoth countries were great value.Laos is a country at the crossroads of the direction it... John O'Donnell, 2016 See more reviews
Far more than a holiday, this was a real experience. We travelled through villages in Laos... Liz Clare, 2016 See more reviews
Great Bike Ride, lots of hill climbs and even more fast descents through spectacular limestone... Grant Lawrie, 2016 See more reviews
This is a cycling trip not for the 'faint hearted' It is a truly cultural experience... Carol Jones, 2015 See more reviews
Itinerary Include flights Expand all Chiang Mai to Bangkok Day 1 Depart London. Day 2 Arrive Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai, 'The Rose of the North', is known for its temples, markets and the many colourful hilltribes that live in the area. Chiang Mai is a former religious and cultural centre; twice coming under the control of the Burmese, there is a strong Burmese influence reflected in the architecture of the city. In the evening we can visit the night market where many of the hilltribe's handicrafts can be seen. There will also be a group briefing in the evening to hear all about the trip ahead.De Charme Hotel, Chiang Mai or similar, Standard Hotel Day 3 Warm-up ride around Chiang Mai old town and visit Doi Suthep hilltop temple After our bike fitting we start to explore Chiang Mai on two wheels. We will visit the old town, the temple of Vieng Kum Kam and numerous cultural highlights in the morning. We'll stop for lunch before driving up to the hilltop temple of Doi Suthep, the most revered Buddhist shrine in the Chiang Mai region. On a clear day the temple affords an excellent view over Chiang Mai and its striking temple landscape. There will be the opportunity to listen to the monks chanting before returning to the city for a chance to try northern Thai cuisine group at an optional group meal. Cycle approx. 30 km.De Charme Hotel, Chiang Mai or similar, Standard Hotel Meals included: Breakfast Day 4 Transfer to Chiang Rai; cycle along the Thai/Burma border into the heart of the Golden Triangle. Leaving our hotel early we set off by bus to the Chiang Rai Province, the northern most province in Thailand (approx. 2.5 hours transfer). We visit the revered Wat Rong Khun (The White Temple) before cycling to Mae Sai. We journey (cycle and 1 hour transfer) into the heart of the Golden Triangle, the compact region where Thailand, Laos and Burma meet offering a heady mix of cultures and landscapes. Cycle approx. 55kmSerene at Chiang Rai Hotel or similar, Standard Hotel Meals included: Breakfast Day 5 Visit an Opium Museum; cycle into Laos The Opium Museum is our first stop today (after a 30min transfer) which highlights the history of opium from its natural properties to its illegal uses, and gives historical information on the Opium Wars that led to the fall of the Manchu Dynasty. The Golden Triangle was previously one of the most extensive producers of Opium until Afghanistan became the world’s largest producer. We'll next start cycling at Chiang Saen following a quiet route to the border for our crossing into Laos. The cycling today is mostly flat with a few rolling hills passing through tobacco and corn plantations. Cycle approx. 67km.Ibis Styles Chiangkhong Riverfront, Chiang Rai or similar, Standard Hotel Meals included: Breakfast Day 6 Cycle to Luang Nam Tha to the hill tribe village Tai Dang. Today is our first foray into rural Laos. The Luang Nam Tha region is a land of 39 ethnic tribal groups. The Nam Tha river weaves itself through the countryside and has many ethnic tribal villages dotted along its length on one side and dense jungle of the national protected area on the other. We will transfer to the village of Vieng Phu Ka before cycling through quiet jungle-lined roads marvelling at the mountainous landscape. There is a night market not too far from the hotel which provides the opportunity to feast on the local speciality of bamboo and green papaya salad or slow cooked Laotian pork belly. There will be a 2 hours transfer at the beginning of the day. Cycle approx. 80km.Thoulasith Guesthouse - Louang Namtha Laos or similar, Basic Hotel Meals included: Breakfast Day 7 Rural cycle to the Udomxai province. We start the day with a ride from Luang Nam Tha to Udomxai. The town is formed by many small villages and is home to a wide variety of ethnic groups; Hmong, Tai Dam, Akha, Tai Lue and Yao. Men and women in traditional dress are a common sight. The cycling today will pass through rice paddies and rolling valleys with a few hill climbs before transferring to the town at the end of the day. Cycle approx. 60km.Charming Laos, Udomxai or similar, Basic Hotel Meals included: Breakfast Day 8 Continue through Udomxai province to Pak Beng. We cycle directly from the hotel today journeying towards Pak Beng. The area is an important intersection between China and Vietnam and has a unique multicultural atmosphere. Located in the Nam Ko River basin and surrounded by scenic mountains the area is famed for its Chinese produce. We will stop for a late lunch before transferring (approx. 2 hours) to Pak Beng town for our overnight spot on the side of the Mekong. Cycle approx. 65km.BKC Villa, Pak Beng or similar, Standard Hotel Meals included: Breakfast Day 9 Board slow boat on the Mekong to Luang Prabang visiting Buddha Caves en route. Today we journey to Luang Prabang by boat, cruising along the Mekong River which starts its journey high in the Tibetan Plateau, eventually emptying itself into the sea in the south of Vietnam. Its journey takes it through 7 different countries in Asia. Travelling slowly allows us to absorb the pace of the riverside settlements and marvel at the mist covered mountains towering above us. En route to Luang Prabang we will visit the famous Tam Ting Caves, cut out of the limestone banks which line the river at Pak Ou. These caves are filled with thousands of Buddha images brought by the surrounding villagers as a sign of their devotion. Upon arrival we hop back on our bikes for a flat 10km cycle to our hotel for the next 2 nights. Cycle approx. 10km.My Lao Home Boutique Hotel, LPQ or similar, Comfortable Hotel Meals included: Breakfast Day 10 Cycle to beautiful Kwang Si Waterfalls. Chance to see monks receiving alms at dawn. Approximately 25 km from Luang Prabang are the beautiful Kwang Si Waterfalls. We ride from our hotel, leaving Luang Prabang passing through a rural landscape of rice paddies and Lao Lum villages. Once at Kwang Si Falls we have a picnic lunch and there is a chance for a refreshing dip. In the afternoon we cycle back to Luang Prabang. The rest of the afternoon is free for individual sightseeing or shopping, or there is an orientation bike ride of the town (any entrance fees are not included). This evening there is a chance to visit the night market in town with beautiful traditional Lao and hilltribe textiles on sale. For those up at dawn there is chance to witness the daily parade of saffron-robed monks receiving alms. Cycle approx. 60km.My Lao Home Boutique Hotel, LPQ or similar, Comfortable Hotel Meals included: Breakfast Day 11 Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng Today we drive south from Luang Prabang to Phou Khoun through more mountainous terrain (approx 3 hours), passing through numerous Hmong villages. Once in Phou Khoun we pull out the bikes and start riding. The ride includes a superb winding descent with magnificent views of limestone karsts which gives the impression of entering into 'Lord of the Rings' territory'. This is followed by shorter climbs and easy riding through rice paddies and villages as we approach Kasi. The rest of the journey (about 1.5 hours) is on the support bus and we end up in Vang Vieng, a popular town with plenty of bars and restaurants to enjoy. Cycle approx. 60km.Thavisouk Hotel & Resort, Vangvieng or similar, Comfortable Hotel Meals included: Breakfast Day 12 Vang Vieng to Vientiane We set off from Vang Vieng early this morning. Passing through local rubber plantations and small villages we pause for a rest at a local roadside market ‐ it's specialty is the local delicacy of dried fish which you may well smell before you see it! We stop for lunch before hopping on the bus for a final two hours drive to Vientiene, the sleepy capital of Laos. In the evening the perfect option is to retire for a refreshing beverage and watch the sunset over the Mekong River. Cycle approx. 60km. City Inn Hotel, Vientiane or similar, Comfortable Hotel Meals included: Breakfast Day 13 Free morning to explore then cross over the Friendship Bridge into Thailand; board overnight train to Bangkok. This morning is free to shop or explore Vientiane. After completing border formalities we ride (on the left in Thailand!) to Nong Khai railway station. Here we say good-bye to our Lao guide. We can relax for a couple of hours in a local hotel (with pool) before returning to the train station for our overnight train journey to Bangkok. Cycle approx. 25km.Overnight Train Meals included: Breakfast Day 14 Bangkok city tour; free afternoon. On arrival in Bangkok we transfer to our hotel. Later in the morning we take a short walk to the Chao Praya River where we board a long tail boat for a tour of the local canals. Bangkok was once known as the Venice of the East because of its intricate canal network. We get a glimpse of daily life as we pass locals selling their wares by the river. We will visit what to this day remains the home of the Thai Royal family at the Royal Palace complex followed by Wat Phra Kaew, home to the Emerald Buddha, one of Thailand's most venerated images. Another highlight is Wat Pho, the largest temple in Bangkok, housing a 46m long, 15m high gold-plated reclining Buddha. We then head back to our hotel by ferry. This afternoon is free for further exploration of this exciting city.Rembrandt Bangkok Hotel or similar, Comfortable Hotel Meals included: Breakfast Day 15 Depart Bangkok, arrive London early evening Depart Bangkok, arrive London early evening.
Laos A visa can be obtained on arrival for most nationalities. The cost depends on nationality - it is currently US$35 for UK passport holders, and you will require 1 passport photo. For further information see the FCO website and look under 'Entry Requirements'. When you enter Laos, make sure you get an entry stamp in your passport. Not having a legitimate entry stamp could lead to arrest or a large fine.
Thailand A visa for Thailand is not required for British nationals for stays of 30 days or less. If you are unsure of the requirements please check with your nearest Thai embassy.
Laos There are no mandatory vaccination requirements. Recommended vaccinations are: Polio, Tetanus, Diphtheria, Typhoid, Hepatitis A. The risk of malaria is slight but you may wish to consult your GP or travel health clinic for further advice. Dengue fever is a known risk in places visited. It is a tropical viral disease spread by daytime biting mosquitoes. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available for Dengue, and therefore the best form of prevention is to avoid being bitten. We recommend you take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
Thailand There are no mandatory vaccination requirements. Recommended vaccinations are: Polio, Tetanus, Diphtheria, Typhoid, Hepatitis A. The risk of malaria is slight but you may wish to consult your GP or travel health clinic for further advice. Dengue fever is a known risk in places visited. It is a tropical viral disease spread by daytime biting mosquitoes. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available for Dengue, and therefore the best form of prevention is to avoid being bitten. We recommend you take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
Hotel, Guesthouse & Train 9 nights comfortable hotels, 3 nights basic guesthouse, all ensuite, 1 nights air-conditioned open plan sleeper train train in soft-bed berths. All the hotels we use have twin rooms with en suite facilities. All hotels andguesthouses are clean and comfortable, with friendly staff. As we are travelling away from the usual tourist haunts there is less choice so please be prepared for this in order to see places that are not frequently visited by tourists. The overnight train is in air-conditioned second-class soft sleepers, bedding is provided. Berths are 'open plan' along the coach wall either side of the central aisle. At night, each pair of seats pulls together to form the bottom bunk, and an upper bunk folds out from the wall. An attendant will make up your bunk with a proper mattress, and will hook up the curtains which are provided for privacy.
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Reviewed December 2016 John O'Donnell Trip: Cycling in Laos Cycling In Laos PtkkrBoth countries were great value.Laos is a country at the crossroads of the direction it follows.The influence of China is self evident and sad.Im grateful to see Laos as it is and not what it may become. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? I think the Mekong River it was an incredible day finished by going to a huge local wedding that night Also one of the group who overcame difficulties that many people would not or could not.Always happy always supportive Made me accept the need to succeed and work at finishing each day What did you think of your group leader? They were what one would expect and did the job to a good level in both countries Both guides were attentive and caring Thank you Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Ride at your own pace and leave a little in reserve.If u like to descend at a frantic pace allow a little caution potholes are a curse as are some of the chinese trucks and cars not to mention odd domestic animals or small children.Otherwise great fun Is there anything else you would like to add? Be understanding that in some places facilities are basic and food as well.This can vary greatly from day to day Laos is a great place accept it is only opening up to our world slowly and it will be a great experience if one enjoys the moment
Reviewed April 2016 Liz Clare Trip: Cycling in Laos Cycling in Laos Far more than a holiday, this was a real experience. We travelled through villages in Laos where the children and adults were genuinely pleased to see you with the shouts of 'saibaedee' echoing from their homes. Children loved to 'high five' as we pedalled through their village. Although the temperatures were far higher than we had expected the team helped us through with plenty of breaks for snacks and fluids. Each section brought another satisfied smile. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? Every day brought a new challenge. Rit, our group leader was an inspiration himself, watching his cycling style gave me something to try to aim for, although at a much slower pace! What did you think of your group leader? Rit was a softly spoken but interesting and cheerful guide who kept us busy from morning till night, He made sure we were looked after well and everything went to plan. His organisation and planning was very good and made the holiday run smoothly. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Make sure you are fit for the challenges ahead. March was hot and 'smoggy' so possibly a time to avoid. Is there anything else you would like to add? This was our first Exodus holiday but we are already planning where to go next. Totally inspired with having been able to cycle and enjoy the experience of being part of local life.
Reviewed February 2016 Peter Fowler Trip: Cycling in Laos Cycling in Laos A great cycling holiday through the northern rural areas of Laos What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? So many inspirational moments. The stand outs for me being the welcoming nature of the children and communities of the small rural townships, the descent through the limestone mountains and the boat ride down the Mekong River. What did you think of your group leader? The group leaders were fantastic. Funny and sociable, yet all the time keeping us informed, safe and on schedule. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Take your time to look around and enjoy what is happening around you. Is there anything else you would like to add? The bike riding was fairly challenging in a couple of sections, particularly if the weather was warmer, but a van and support crew were always available to assist or provide a lift if required.
Reviewed February 2016 Grant Lawrie Trip: Cycling in Laos Cycle Laos Great Bike Ride, lots of hill climbs and even more fast descents through spectacular limestone mountains. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? Riding past so many friendly villages , all waving and very friendly smiles from all ages of people on the side of the roads. What did you think of your group leader? The riding guides did a magnificent job , kept the faster people going fast while looking after the slower riders and those stopping to take pictures, the back up crew kept us fed and watered , and looked after anyone who wanted a ride in the van , everybody was looked after. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? This trip is not for inexperienced bike rider , but average fitness is good enough. If you like asian food , cycling , river trips and overnight trains as I do this is the trip for you Is there anything else you would like to add? There is a lot more to see in Laos but this trip was a great start
Reviewed December 2015 David T Trip: Cycling in Laos Laos cycling A well organised trip exploring the outer reaches of Laos. Rather too many long bus transfers. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? Drifting along the Mekong River in a traditional boat which we had all to ourselves. What did you think of your group leader? Rit & 'Mr La' were always enthusiastic but rather rigid in their asherence to the set programme. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Do not go to the 'Complimentary' meal/ evening in Chiang Mai. It is the crystallisation of why Exodus cutomers do not go with other tour Companies - awful food, a 'theme park' style of entertainment all in the environment where there are hundreds of other long suffering tourists. Do not assume that because it is South Asia it will always be warm. Is there anything else you would like to add? Do not blindly follow the restaurants recommended by the guides - there are far better places if only limited research is done. Reply from Exodus Reply from Exodus We would like to thank David for his review and we have taken his feedback on board; as of January 2016 some of the trip has been re-routed to help reduce transfer times and this is detailed in the trip notes. Although previous feedback regarding the meal in Chiang Mai had been positive, we have decided to use a smaller, local restaurant going forward which we hope our clients will enjoy. Megan Devenish - Trip Manager for Thailand and Laos
Reviewed November 2015 Carol Jones Trip: Cycling in Laos cycling in Thailand and Laos This is a cycling trip not for the 'faint hearted' It is a truly cultural experience which takes you to the heart and soul of the local people in the remote mountains and valleys of Laos. It would be almost impossible to get to this part of Laos without cycling and without the knowledge and back up of the local leaders and drivers. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? Stopping to visit a mountain village while the road was temporarily closed and drinking the most amazing Green tea in a small road side cafe. Meeting the smallest woman I have ever seen carrying a basket ofthe biggest pieces of root ginger I have ever seen! What did you think of your group leader? Great. Knowledge enthusiasm and fully committed to the trip and everything Laos! Do you have any advice for potential travellers? If you just want to cycle as far as possible for as long as possible or as fast as possible each day without looking to the right and left, ahead or behind and without stopping for the unexpected, then this trip is not for you! You will miss sooooo much! Is there anything else you would like to add? My first trip to SE Asia was everything and more than I expected. I have over 400 photos to prove it!
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