Day 1: 14-Day Laos Cycling Loop Tour.

Embark on Your Laos Cycling Adventure from Vientiane to Paksan. Welcome to Vientiane, the charming capital city of Laos, where your 14-day Laos cycling tour begins! Upon arrival at Wattay International Airport, you'll complete immigration formalities and meet your friendly local guide who will lead you through this unforgettable journey. Start your adventure with a visit to That Luang Stupa, the largest and most revered stupa in Laos, rich in history and cultural significance. After exploring Vientiane's top attractions, including Wat Si Saket and the Patuxai Monument, you'll begin your scenic journey to Paksan, the capital of Bolikhamsai Province. Enjoy a relaxing evening upon arrival in Paksan, a peaceful town nestled at the confluence of the Nam San and Mekong Rivers. Take in the serene surroundings and immerse yourself in the local culture. You have the option to explore Paksan on bicycle or unwind at your comfortable hotel.
Summary:
Activities: Transferring, warming up cycling
Accommodation; Sokbounma Hotel**
Meals: B/L/D/
Distance: 160 km (approximately 3 hours driving)

Day 2: Paksan to Thasi - 14-Day Laos Cycling Loop Tour.

Cycle from Paksan to Thasi on Your Laos Cycling Adventure. After a hearty breakfast, we begin our cycling journey from Paksan to Thasi, a picturesque village in the heart of Laos. The ride starts by turning left off National Road 13 and heading east into the scenic Laos countryside. As you pedal through this remote area, you’ll pass through the charming town of Muang Bolikhan, and witness authentic rural life in nearby Lao villages that embody the simplicity of the Lao lowland culture. During our ride, we’ll stop for a picnic lunch. Enjoy delicious local food from a restaurant in Paksan and refuel amidst the beautiful natural surroundings of the Laos countryside. After the ride, we arrive at Thasi Village, where we’ll rest for the night in a comfortable local accommodation. Experience traditional Lao hospitality during dinner at a nearby restaurant, offering authentic flavors and dishes.
Summary:
Activities: Cycling from Hotel - hotel
Accommodation; Guest House
Meals: B/L/D/
Cycling Distance : 80 km

Day 3: Thasi to Muangkhoun - 14-Day Laos Cycling Loop Tour.

Cycle through Scenic Laos: Start your day with a hearty breakfast prepared by your friendly Laos cycling guide, ensuring you're energized for another exciting day of exploration on your 14-day Laos cycling tour. Today, we cycle towards Muangkhoun, a historic village nestled in the Xiengkhouang province. The route features gentle cycling roads surrounded by stunning Laos landscapes, perfect for taking in the natural beauty of the region. As we ride, we'll pass lush paddy fields and dry rice fields, a testament to the traditional Laos farming methods like slash-and-burn cultivation. Along the way, we’ll also ride through remote Lao villages, some of which are home to the indigenous Kmu people, who reside in the hills of central Laos.

During our ride, we’ll stop for a picnic lunch at a scenic spot along the route, allowing you to recharge before continuing the journey. The final 30 kilometers of the ride are more challenging, with some hills leading up to Muangkhoun, reaching an elevation of 1200 meters. You can choose to cycle to the top or transfer for the last section, depending on your time and energy levels. Once we arrive at Muangkhoun, the old capital of Xiengkhouang, we’ll settle in a comfortable guesthouse for the night. Muangkhoun has a fascinating history, as it was heavily damaged during the Indochina War between 1963 and 1973, with many temples and houses destroyed. Explore this culturally rich area and reflect on its poignant past.
Summary:
Activities: Cycling from Hotel - hotel
Accommodation; Guest House
Meals: B/L/D/
Attitude: 300 m – 1200 m above sea level
Cycling Distance: 110 km

Day 4: Muangkhoun to Phonsavan - 14-Day Laos Cycling Loop Tour.

After breakfast, we’ll embark on a short but rewarding ride towards Phonsavan, the capital district of Xiangkhuang Province. This leg of your 14-day Laos cycling tour offers a blend of history and adventure. Along the way, we’ll take a detour off the main road to visit the renowned Plain of Jars, home to two of the most significant archaeological sites: Site 1 and Site 2. These ancient stone jars remain a fascinating mystery, sparking curiosity and debate about their origins. During the ride, we’ll stop for a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, giving you a chance to sample authentic Laos cuisine before continuing the journey to Phonsavan. After checking into your hotel, you’ll have free time to explore this small but historically significant town. We highly recommend visiting the UXO Center to learn more about the lingering effects of unexploded ordnance (UXOs) from the Indochina War. Phonsavan is also a town rich in history, having been a key battleground during the conflict between the Lao communist government and the royal government from 1964 to 1973. The Plain of Jars remains one of Laos’ most intriguing historical sites, with over 60 locations scattered across the Xiengkhouang Plateau. Only three of these sites have been surveyed due to the thick brush and UXO contamination. The jars, some of which stand over 3 meters high, are believed to be around 2,500 to 3,000 years old, adding to their mystique. According to local legend, King Khoun Chuang ordered the construction of these stone jars to store wine for a grand celebration after his victory in the 6th century.
Summary:
Activities: Cycling from Hotel – hotel and visiting
Accommodation; Vansana hotel or Favanhmai Hotel****
Meals: B/L/D
Attitude: 1060 m – 1100 m above sea level
Cycling Distance: 40 km

Day 5: Phonsavan to Muangkham - 14-Day Laos Cycling Loop Tour

Good morning and welcome to another day on your 14-day Laos cycling loop tour! Today’s ride is relatively short, so you can enjoy a leisurely start. We’ll head east towards the Vietnam border, cycling through picturesque landscapes and passing through traditional Hmong villages. These highland villages offer a glimpse into the unique culture of the Hmong people who have lived in these mountainous areas for generations. Along the way, we’ll stop to take photos of the stunning rice fields that stretch across the landscape, offering scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere. The cycling route features rolling hills, making it an easy ride with moderate elevation changes. By the afternoon, we’ll arrive at Muangkham, a quiet town known for its historical significance. If you’re feeling adventurous, we offer an optional cycling excursion to a fascinating cave that holds a tragic history. This cave was struck by a rocket attack from the Royal Lao Air Force, and during the attack, more than 300 villagers were tragically killed by a napalm bomb. After returning to Muangkham, you’ll have time to relax and unwind at a comfortable guesthouse for the night. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, where you can savor authentic Laos cuisine.
Summary:
Activities: Cycling from Hotel - hotel
Accommodation; Guest House
Meals: B/L/D/
Attitude: 1100 m – 650 m above sea level
Cycling Distance: 51 km

Day 6: Muangkham to Namneuan - 14-Day Laos Cycling Loop Tour

Cycling from Muangkham to Namneuan: A Challenging Ride with Scenic Views. After a delicious breakfast at a local restaurant, we’ll set out north towards the Vietnam border. The ride begins on a peaceful, quiet road, offering the perfect start to today’s adventure. After a 5 km warm-up on undulating terrain, we’ll tackle the first big climb of the day—a challenging 15 km ascent to 1500 meters above sea level. While this climb may be tough, it’s a great opportunity to test your cycling stamina as we journey through the stunning Laos countryside. After a quick water stop, we’ll continue our ride, enjoying a shorter climb before we pause for a picnic lunch provided by our guide. We also have the option to stop for lunch at one of the local spots along the way if we’re ready to refuel. The last part of today’s ride is a downhill thrill, as we cycle from 1400 meters down to 500 meters above sea level over the final 20 km. This descent will take us to Namneuan, a tranquil village where we’ll stay overnight. Enjoy a relaxing evening and stay at a comfortable guesthouse in Namneuan.

Summary:
Activities: Cycling from Hotel - hotel
Accommodation; Guest House
Meals: B/L/D/
Attitude: 600 m – 1500 m above sea level
Cycling Distance: 86 km

Day 7: Namneuan to Viengthong - 14-Day Laos Cycling Loop Tour

Cycling from Namneuan to Viengthong: Hill Tribe Villages and Scenic Climbing. Good morning! After a hearty breakfast prepared by our wonderful guide at a local restaurant, we’ll set out for a shorter but thrilling day of cycling. Our journey begins with a challenging 7 km climb, taking us from 600 meters to 1000 meters above sea level as we ascend towards the junction with the Vietnam border. From there, we’ll turn left and continue our ride towards Viengthong, cycling through quiet, scenic roads that pass through traditional hill tribe villages. Along the way, we’ll have the unique opportunity to stop and interact with the locals, observing their way of life as they work in rice fields and engage in daily activities. These encounters with the hill tribe communities, including the Hmong and lowland Lao people, offer a fascinating insight into Lao culture. It’s a special moment, especially as the locals are often intrigued by seeing foreign cyclists traveling such long distances through their remote villages.Once we conquer the climb, we’ll enjoy a well-earned, leisurely descent before tackling a few more rolling hills on the final stretch. The last 18 km will bring us to Viengthong, a charming town nestled along the Nam Khan River, where we’ll spend the night. After checking in to a cozy guesthouse, relax and rejuvenate your tired legs at the nearby hot springs. Then, take some time to explore the town, known for its rich hill tribe culture and diverse communities. In the evening, we’ll enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, offering a taste of authentic Laos cuisine.
Summary:
Activities: Cycling from Hotel - hotel
Accommodation; Guest House
Meals: B/L/D/
Attitude: 600 m – 1550 m above sea level
Distance: 66 km

Day 8: Viengthong to Nongkiaw - 14-Day Laos Cycling Loop Tour

Cycling from Viengthong to Nongkiaw: Conquer the Laotian Alps and Explore Historic Sites. Good morning! Today, we embark on an epic cycling journey through the Laotian Alps, where we’ll ride some of the most scenic and challenging roads in Laos. We rise early to witness the vibrant hill tribe market right outside our hotel, a perfect moment to experience local life as the sun rises over the market. After exploring the market, we’ll head out on our bikes, ready for a long but rewarding day of cycling. Today’s ride takes us along National Route No. 1c from Viengthong to Viengkham, offering breathtaking views of lush jungle, forest landscapes, and two stunning national parks. We’ll ride through green mountains over three mountain passes, each offering panoramic views of the rugged terrain. Our cycling starts on flat terrain as we make our way out of Viengthong, before tackling the first climb—a 500-meter ascent. After the climb, we’ll descend into a winding river valley for approximately 10 km, then cycle on a gentler road, making it a perfect opportunity to stop for a picnic lunch under the shade of a tree. The final climb of the day is a challenging 15 km ascent, but the effort is worth it as we reach the top and enjoy the descent into Viengthong. From here, we’ll transfer the remaining distance to Nongkiaw, our destination for the night. Nongkiaw (or Muang Ngoi) is a town steeped in history, once under the control of the Pathet Lao during the Vietnam War. The locals endured hardship, often hiding in caves during the day to avoid constant bombing. Today, the area is known for its rugged beauty and land mine contamination in certain regions, a reminder of its complex past.
Summary:
Activities: Cycling from Hotel - hotel
Accommodation; Guest House
Meals:B/L/D/
Attitude: 700 m – 1300 m above sea level
Cyling distance: 100km/ 168 Km

Day 9: Nongkiaw to Luang Prabang - 14-Day Laos Cycling Loop Tour

Cycling from Nongkiaw to Luang Prabang: Scenic Roads, Sacred Caves, and Mekong River Views. Today is an exciting day as we cycle from Nongkiaw to the iconic Luang Prabang, one of the most beautiful cities in Laos. We start the day with a scenic, peaceful ride on quiet roads, perfect for enjoying the beauty of the Laos countryside. After about 30 km, we’ll merge onto a larger road with some traffic coming from China, but the route remains mostly flat with short rolling hills, making it an enjoyable ride for both beginners and experienced cyclists. We’ll continue on a smooth, undulating road for around 80 km, offering beautiful views of lush green landscapes and serene rivers. Our journey will bring us to the Mekong River, where we’ll stop for lunch at a local restaurant right at the confluence of the Nam Ou River. This spot offers stunning river views and an authentic Laos experience. After lunch, we’ll cross the Mekong River to explore the famous Pak Ou Caves, a sacred Buddhist site filled with hundreds of Buddha statues. This historical site is an important place of worship for the local people and offers a peaceful, spiritual atmosphere that adds a special touch to your journey. Once you’ve explored the caves, you’ll have the option to continue cycling or take a transfer for the final 30 km ride into Luang Prabang. We’ll arrive in Luang Prabang in the late afternoon, where you can relax and unwind after a rewarding day.
Summary:
Activities: Cycling from Hotel - hotel
Accommodation; The Sanctuary Hotel
Meals: B/L/D/
Attitude: 400 m – 300 m above sea level
Distance: 140 km

Day 10: Explore Luang Prabang - 14-Day Laos Cycling Loop Tour

Discover the UNESCO World Heritage City of Luang Prabang. Good morning! Today, we dive deep into the beauty and history of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage town known for its stunning temples, vibrant culture, and rich history. We’ll start the day early at 6:00 AM to witness the traditional alms procession of monks, a peaceful and spiritual sight as they slowly walk through the town, collecting alms from the local people. It’s an unforgettable experience and a beautiful way to start the day. After the alms ceremony, we’ll head to the local morning market, where you can explore the colorful stalls filled with fresh produce, spices, and handcrafted goods. It’s a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture. We’ll return to the hotel for a hearty breakfast, then cycle to the former royal temple of Vat Xiangthong, one of the most beautiful and historic temples in Luang Prabang. After that, we’ll visit the former royal palace (now a museum) to learn more about the fascinating history of Laos’ royal family. As we continue exploring the charming streets of Luang Prabang, you’ll discover its well-preserved French colonial architecture and numerous Buddhist temples, all contributing to the town’s unique atmosphere. In the late afternoon, we’ll climb up Phousi Mountain to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Luang Prabang and the Mekong River, especially as the sun sets, casting a golden glow over the city. Luang Prabang is not only the oldest city in Laos, but it was also the capital of the Kingdom of Lao (Land of a Million Elephants) before the 16th century. The town’s exceptional preservation and historical significance earned it a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1995, making it one of the most culturally important cities in Southeast Asia.
Summary:
Activities: Free to explore Ancient City
Accommodation; The Sanctuary Hotel****
Meals:B/L/D/
Cycling distance: No

Day 11: Luang Prabang to Kasi – Scenic Cycling and Majestic Views

Cycling from Luang Prabang to Kasi: Stunning Views, Thrilling Descents, and Cultural Exploration. Today, we embark on an unforgettable journey from Luang Prabang to Kasi, cycling through some of the most scenic landscapes in Laos. After departing from Luang Prabang, we’ll travel south along Route 13, heading towards Phoukhoun. This drive offers beautiful views of the Laos countryside and prepares us for the cycling adventure ahead. Upon reaching Phoukhoun, we’ll hop on our bikes and cycle to a restaurant with a panoramic view perched atop a mountain. This spot offers one of the best views in all of Southeast Asia! After a delicious lunch with a stunning backdrop, we’ll continue our descent down Route 13. The next 25 km descent is considered one of the best in the region, providing a thrilling ride and spectacular scenery. In the afternoon, we’ll tackle a short climb before enjoying a long, flat ride into Kasi, our destination for the night. Kasi is a small town with a serene atmosphere, ideal for relaxing after a day of cycling.
Summary:
Activities: Cycling from Hotel - hotel
Accommodation; Vanphisit guesthouse
Meals: B/L/D/
Elevation: Phoukhoun = 1340 m. Kasi = 405 m
Cycling Distance: 100 km/ 150 Km

Day 12: Kasi to Vang Vieng – Scenic Cycling and Limestone Mountains

Cycling from Kasi to Vang Vieng: A Beautiful Ride Through Laos' Breathtaking Landscapes. Good news! Today’s cycling ride will be a relaxing journey, allowing us plenty of extra time to unwind in the stunning town of Vang Vieng. We’ll begin our ride along Route 13, which offers a mostly downhill or flat ride, with only a few short climbs. The route promises a smooth, enjoyable ride through some of the most picturesque landscapes in Laos.As we cycle, we’ll be surrounded by lush greenery, towering limestone mountains, and serene countryside views, making this a perfect day for taking in the beauty of Laos. We’ll stop along the way to enjoy refreshing treats, and after 50 km, we’ll visit the lovely village of Ban Phatang, a peaceful and welcoming place. The final stretch of the day is a thrilling 18 km, fast and flat, where we’ll ride through the most stunning limestone mountain landscapes. It’s truly a highlight of the ride! We’ll arrive in Vang Vieng just in time for lunch, with a beautiful view of the Nam Song River. After lunch, the afternoon is yours to explore the town of Vang Vieng. This vibrant destination offers plenty of activities, including swimming in the river, or simply enjoying the town's relaxed atmosphere. With plenty of amenities, Vang Vieng is a popular spot for travelers, offering everything from restaurants to pubs and even places to enjoy some downtime.
Summary:
Activities: Cycling from Hotel - hotel
Accommodation; Vang Vieng Boutique Resort
Meals: B/L/D/
Elevation: Kasi = 405 m. Vangvieng = 280 m
Cycling Distance: 55 km

Day 13: Vang Vieng Multi-Sport Adventure – Caves, Kayaking, and Scenic Exploration

Explore Vang Vieng: Cycling, Hiking, Kayaking, and Caves in Laos' Natural Wonderland. Today is a fun-filled, action-packed day in Vang Vieng, one of Laos' top adventure destinations. We’ll begin with a scenic cycling excursion through hidden caves, remote villages, and the breathtaking landscapes of limestone mountains, dense jungles, and rivers. This region is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. After our cycling exploration, we’ll embark on an exciting kayak adventure, paddling down the beautiful Nam Song River back to Vang Vieng. This peaceful paddle is a great way to take in the surroundings and enjoy the tranquility of the river as it winds through limestone cliffs and lush green countryside. For those who are looking for even more adventure, Vang Vieng offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, further cave exploration, and discovering hidden spots in the surrounding wilderness. Whether you choose to venture deeper into the caves, or take a hike to see even more of the area’s stunning landscape, this day promises to be full of unforgettable experiences.
Summary:
Activities: Multi adventure tour
Accommodation; Vang Vieng Boutique Resort
Meals: B/L/D/
Kayaking and hiking activities

Day 14: Vang Vieng to Vientiane – Scenic Cycling and Smooth Ride to the Capital

Cycling from Vang Vieng to Vientiane: A Relaxing End to Your Laos Cycling Tour. After a delicious breakfast, we’ll continue our scenic cycling journey along Route 13, winding through the picturesque countryside of Laos. We’ll take regular stops every 20 to 25 kilometers for a refreshing break and to enjoy the natural beauty of the landscape. The morning ride is mostly rolling hills, offering a relaxing cycling experience as we make our way toward the quaint village of Hinherb. After cycling 69 km, we’ll stop at a long bridge and enjoy a well-deserved lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, we’ll continue our journey along lovely, fast, flat roads, making our way toward the small town of Phonhon, located 83 km from our starting point. Here, we’ll load our bikes into the van and drive the rest of the way to Vientiane, the vibrant capital of Laos. Once we arrive, you’ll have time to relax and reflect on your amazing 14-day Laos cycling loop tour. We’ll stay overnight in Vientiane, the charming heart of Laos culture.
Summary:
Activities: Cycling from Hotel - hotel
Accommodation; Golden Laos Hotel****
Meals: B/L/D/
Altitude: Vangvieng = 280 m. Phonhon = 190 m
Cycling distance: 100 km/ 150 Km

Day 15: Departure – End of Your Unforgettable Laos Cycling Adventure

After a delicious breakfast, we’ll transfer you to Wattay International Airport in Vientiane for your departure. Reflect on your incredible journey through the heart of Laos, from the lush landscapes of Vang Vieng to the historical wonders of Luang Prabang. We hope this 15-day Laos cycling loop tour has been a memorable adventure, and we look forward to welcoming you on another tour soon!
Summary:
Activities: Transferring toInternational Airport
Accommodation; Onward.
Meals: B/L
Transferring distance: 30 Km

Note: Hotel accommodations are subject to availability. In the case of changes, we will provide equivalent rooms of similar quality and comfort.

Meals Description:

At Snail Adventure Tours, we believe that food is an integral part of experiencing a new culture, and your cycling journey through Laos will offer a wonderful opportunity to savor local flavors and world-renowned dishes. Throughout the 15-day Northern Laos Cycling Loop, we provide you with 14 delicious breakfasts, 14 authentic lunches, and 14 mouthwatering dinners that showcase the best of Laotian cuisine.

From the famous Lao rice dishes to sticky rice, you will have the chance to taste the diverse range of flavors that make Laos a food lover's paradise. Spicy papaya salad (som tam), laap (a traditional minced meat salad), and grilled fish fresh from the Mekong River are just a few of the many local specialties you'll savor. For those with a penchant for more adventurous flavors, enjoy regional favorites such as sour bamboo soup or sachok, a spicy noodle dish. Vegetarian and vegan options are available, ensuring that all dietary preferences are catered to.

If you have food allergies or any specific dietary requirements, please inform us in advance, and our team will make sure to coordinate with local restaurants to provide you with safe and satisfying meal options. Whether you’re a food lover, an adventurous eater, or someone with special dietary needs, you will be delighted by the culinary experiences we provide along the tour.

Snail Adventure Tours also offers the opportunity to visit local markets, where you can witness the vibrant atmosphere and purchase fresh fruits, snacks, and traditional delicacies to enjoy on the go. Let us take you on a culinary journey that will add another layer of excitement to your cycling tour in

Tour Includes:

English-speaking cycling guide (other languages available upon request)
Accommodation based on double/twin occupancy
Meals as detailed in the itinerary (14 breakfasts, 14 lunches, 14 dinners)
Air-conditioned transfers and transportation
Van or bus support during cycling portions
Truck support for groups of 6 or more
Trek mountain bikes (4300 with disc brakes) and helmets or Trek FX3 Hybrids
Sightseeing excursions as per the itinerary
Bike tour essentials: bike pump, bike tools, spare tubes, and spare bikes
Long slow boat ride along the Mighty Mekong River from Pakbeng to Luang Prabang
First aid kit
Cold water, fresh towels, and snacks for cycling days
Mineral water for drinking