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Travel by tuk tuk deep into Chiang Mai’s countryside, drift down the Mekong in a private boat & meditate with a master

What's Included

  • Accommodation in twin rooms
  • Max 14 travellers per group
  • Exclusively for people in their 30s & 40s
  • Arrival transfer included
  • All activities mentioned on the itinerary
  • 9 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners
  • Experienced Pack Leader with you throughout this trip
  • Stay in hand-picked 3-5 star hotels
  • Private minibus & Mekong river cruise

Flashpackers are required to produce proof of COVID-19 vaccination 30 days before departure OR proof of a negative test within 72 hours of their adventure starting. Flashpackers must also provide evidence that they have purchased travel insurance for the duration of their adventure. Remember, flights aren't included and prices are based on sharing a twin room. If you'd like to upgrade to a single room, you can add this during the booking process or by contacting our Customer Experience team.

About your trip

Far from the madding crowds of Bangkok, this rural adventure propels you deep into the wilds of a South East Asia you could only imagine.

Secret waterfalls, bustling night markets and languorous days spent drifting down the Mekong; 10 days in Northern Thailand and Laos with Flash Pack might be the antidote to modern living we all need.

First stop: Chiang Mai, where you’ll hunt down the best-kept Thai street food secrets and sip on rice whisky with new friends. In the surrounding misty countryside you’ll travel by tuk tuk past remote villages and snoozing water buffalo, before stopping for a picnic lunch at a hidden waterfall. There’ll be moments of complete serenity as you float slowly down the Mekong River in Laos or sit down to meditate with a Buddhist master at Wat Suan Dok temple. And even more moments of wonder as you meet – and cook with – tribespeople living in the mountains of the Golden Triangle, and rise at dawn to watch the atmospheric alms-giving ceremony amongst Luang Prabang’s splendor.

From street barbecues and tuk tuk adventures to quiet prayers and river boating, this is an off-grid adventure for anyone looking to escape it all. Whatever ‘it’ is.

Ready to go?

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Our Favourite Hotels

Here's a taste of the hotels we sometimes use on this adventure. The hotels you'll stay in for your departure will be shared with you one month before you go.

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Maison Dalabua, Luang Prabang

Nestled in tropical gardens, 2 minutes from the Mekong, this serene spa hotel has elegant bungalows set around a lotus pond. Dining is alfresco by the pool or at the excellent Le Vetiver, and there are free bikes for exploring the town.

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Sanctuary Pakbeng, Pakbeng

A boutique lodge on the banks of the Mekong in a remote part of Northern Laos. Kick back by the pool with its panoramic views and watch the coming and goings of river boats as traditional rural life unfolds around you.  

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Chiang Khong Teak Garden, Chiang Khong

In a prime position, right by the riverfront, this is Chiang Khong’s smartest hotel. Rooms feature a harmonious fusion of traditional Lanna and contemporary decor, plus there’s a riverside pool perfect for sundowners.  

Important Notes

Which airports do I need to fly in and out of? Plus airport code

Fly into Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) in Thailand, and out of Luang Prabang International Airport (LPQ) in Laos.

What time do I need to arrive (in time for the welcome meeting)?

Before 1 pm ideally. The welcome meeting and dinner will be at 5 pm starting at the hotel, which is approximately 30 minutes away from the airport.

What time should my flight depart on the last day?

There are no activities planned for the last day, so leave any time you wish. Your final hotel is approximately 15 minutes away from the airport. 

Are airport transfers included?

If you arrive on Day 1 of your adventure, or you book pre-tour accommodation with us, your airport arrival transfer will be included. If you book alternative pre-tour accommodation or are arriving by another mode of transport you must arrange your own arrival transfer.

Arrival transfers are private to Flash Pack and will be in groups depending on flight times. Sometimes this means waiting in the airport for a short while until other flights have arrived.

We don’t offer a departure transfer as Flashpackers leave at different times of the day and many stay for extra nights. We will offer you support with finding a local taxi.

Do I need a visa?

Thailand
You do not need a visa if you’re visiting as a tourist from the EU, UK, USA, Australia or Canada for up to 30 days. Please check with your local consulate if the country you are travelling from requires a visa. 

Laos
Most nationalities will require a visa to enter Laos which will be issued on arrival for 30 days. A passport size photo is required and will cost approx $40 (cash only). 

We recommend that you have at least six months validity remaining on your passport and can show a return ticket.

Additionally, be aware that airlines will now only allow boarding of flights to and from Laos if you have two blank pages in your passport.

What are the Covid-19 requirements for visiting Thailand and Laos?

Due to the changeable nature of Covid-19 entry requirements, we strongly advise Flashpackers to consult the travel advice issued by your local consular services well in advance of your departure date. Some countries do still require travellers to comply with pre-arrival testing and/or vaccination requirements. Links to the key consular services can be found on our Safety page.

What other vaccinations and medication will I need?

We recommend checking with your local travel clinic six to eight weeks before your trip to see if any medications or vaccinations are required.

What level of fitness do I need for this trip?

There are no particularly strenuous activities on this tour, so a moderate level of fitness is fine. 

What standard of accommodation should I expect?

Our accommodation at Pakbeng in Laos is basic and not up to Flash Pack’s usual standards – but options are limited in this remote region and we only stay there one night.

Will this itinerary change?

Please be aware that the itinerary, activities and hotels are subject to change. These changes can happen with little notice due to availability, poor weather, seasonal changes, or other circumstances beyond our control. From time to time we may also make changes to your itinerary to try out new ideas and keep things fresh.

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