Snow Lion Expeditions

• Destinations
• Southeast Asia

• 14 Days
• Cultural Touring

Many of Snow Lion’s guests return from a tour through Southeast Asia raving about the beauty and hospitality of Laos. Join us to experience it yourself as we traverse this elongated land along the north-south course of the mighty Mekong. Landing in the former royal capital of Luang Prabang, we find ourselves settling into Laos’ tranquil rhythms as we explore this now provincial city. Day trips to the cave-enclosed Buddhist shrines of Pak Ou and the pristine swimming hole at Kuang Si waterfall introduce us to the secrets hidden within the region’s karst landforms. After passing through Vang Vieng and the present capital of Vientiane (translated: Sandalwood City), we spend three days aboard a river boat, floating the Mekong’s final miles inside Laotian territory to the famed “Four Thousand Islands” and Khong Pha Peng waterfall, “Niagra of the East,” near the Cambodian border. Our journey winds down as we contemplate sunset from the deck, drink in hand, scanning the sand bars for exotic birds, and serenaded by buffalo toads.

For a slice of the country's food, music, history and scenery, plus a ride down the Mekong River, visit Where in The World is Matt Lauer, recorded in April 2008.