Bangkok, Northern Thailand and the Landscapes of Laos

We will travel along its main avenues until we reach the bustling Chinatown district, where we will make our first stop at the Temple of the Golden Buddha, or Wat Traimit (entrance included), home to a five-ton solid-gold Buddha statue filled with history. Our next stop takes us to the Golden Mount, or Wat Saket (entrance included), where we will climb to the top to enjoy a panoramic view offering a different perspective of Bangkok. We continue to the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, or Wat Pho (entrance included), which houses one of the largest reclining Buddha statues in the world. We will end our tour at the Grand Royal Palace (entrance included), which served as the official residence of the King of Thailand. During the visit to the Grand Palace, we will also see the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the most important in all of Thailand. Afterward, we will cross the Chao Phraya River by ferry to finish our tour at the city’s most impressive shopping mall, IconSiam. Free time for lunch or shopping. Return to the hotel on your own and free afternoon to continue enjoying this fascinating city. Overnight stay.

Hidden in the jungle and crossed by a stream, this mystical sanctuary offers a deep connection with nature and spirituality. Stone sculptures and natural terraces overlook the Chiang Mai valley. It is an ideal place for those seeking peace, nature, and a less-crowded temple experience.

A symbol of Chiang Mai and one of the most sacred temples in northern Thailand. Located 1,000 meters above sea level, it offers stunning panoramic views of the city. The visit includes an ascent by funicular (cogwheel train). Its golden stupa, gleaming in the sunlight, houses Buddha relics and attracts pilgrims from around the world. A uniquely sacred atmosphere. This is an essential visit to understand the spirituality and history of the north.

Arrival. This center promotes more respectful tourism with elephants: the main activities include walking with them, feeding them, and participating in basic care. The site also features a cultural museum about elephants that explains their anatomy, history, the dangers they face, and their relationship with local communities.

We will have the opportunity to visit a community known for the traditional brass rings worn by women around their necks, which has led to the term “giraffe women.” Our visit seeks to promote respect, intercultural understanding, and support for local development, while also acknowledging that many of these communities live in situations of displacement or without full citizenship in Thailand.

Entrance included to this extensive and well-maintained botanical garden, home to a rich variety of tropical plants, sculptures, lakes, and peaceful walking paths. A vehicle tour inside the park is included to see the Orchid Garden.

A contemporary work of art, completely white and decorated with mirrors, blending Buddhist symbolism with modern creativity. Lunch included at a local restaurant.

Historically known for opium cultivation, it is now a tourist destination with river landscapes, mountains, and border villages. We will learn about the culture and history of the area at the Opium Museum (entrance included), through interactive and audiovisual exhibits. Here we gain insight into how opium influenced the local economy, culture, and society, as well as the efforts to eradicate its production.

Inside the statue, an elevator (included) will take us to the top to enjoy unmatched views of Chiang Rai and its surroundings.

We begin the visit at the Royal Palace, now the National Museum, where the treasures of the ancient Kingdom of Laos are preserved. Just a short walk away, we admire the elegance of Wat Mai Temple, with its five-tiered roof and delicate golden decorations. Afterwards, we visit Wat Xieng Thong (Temple of the Golden City), the most important Buddhist monument in Laos and a jewel of Laotian architecture, featuring roofs that slope almost to the ground and dazzling mosaics.

At dawn, barefoot Buddhist monks dressed in saffron-colored robes walk in single file through the city streets, carrying wicker baskets to receive food offerings from local residents. Visit to a local market, followed by a return to the hotel.

Nature amazes us with this spectacular multi-tiered waterfall system that flows into turquoise pools, perfect for swimming. Surrounded by tropical jungle and natural trails, it offers an idyllic and refreshing setting to enjoy nature and tranquility. Lunch included at a local restaurant.

Arrival at a local home to participate in the traditional Baci ceremony, during which the officiant calls back the spirits to attract positive influences. A white cotton string is then tied around participants’ wrists as a symbol of prosperity and good luck. You will have the privilege of taking part in this sacred experience. Dinner included. Return to the hotel at the end of the day.

Arrival at this point, where we leave the vehicle to begin an approximately 1.5-hour hike. The walk starts in the small Hmong village of Ban Phathao. Along the way, we cross lush green rice paddies and follow shaded paths beneath towering trees, encountering local villagers as we go. We reach the Elephant Cave Temple and sacred cave on foot.

Arrival in a city that offers a charming blend of history, spirituality, and a relaxed lifestyle. City tour begins with a visit to That Luang Temple (entrance included), an imposing golden stupa built in the 16th century and the most sacred site in Vientiane, often frequented by local pilgrims. We then explore the city center to see the Patuxay Monument, built in memory of those who died during Laos’ war of independence from France. Lunch is included at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, we continue to Wat Sisaket (entrance included), home to thousands of miniature Buddha statues. Just across the street, we visit the neighboring Wat Phra Keo (entrance included), which houses an impressive collection of Lao and Khmer religious art. We conclude the day with a visit to COPE (entrance included), offering a powerful and deeply human experience. Through interactive exhibits, videos, and firsthand testimonies, this center reveals the consequences of the tragic legacy of Laos as one of the most heavily bombed countries in the world during the Vietnam War.