Name: The Hidden Treasures of the Mekong
Brand: Planet Ride
SKU: 3700977104448
Price: 3340.0 EUR
Availability: InStock

Day 1

Day 1 - Arrival in Chiang Mai

You arrive in Chiang Mai, in northern Thailand. At the airport you will be met by a Planet Ride expert and transferred to your hotel. This first day is for recovering from the journey and discovering Chiang Mai at your own pace. Temples, markets, and lively alleyways offer a gentle first immersion into Southeast Asia. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 2

Day 2 - Chiang Mai - Chiang Khong - 300 km

You head north toward Chiang Rai. The route alternates between fast stretches and agricultural scenery, allowing a gradual familiarization with the motorcycle. In Chiang Rai, you stop to visit Wat Rong Khun, better known as the White Temple. By the end of the day you reach Chiang Khong, on the banks of the Mekong River at the Laotian border. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 3

Day 3 - Chiang Khong - Luang Namtha - 180 km

After completing border formalities, you enter Laos and begin your motorcycle journey in a country still largely unspoiled. The road runs alongside traditional villages and passes through peaceful rural landscapes. The pace is conducive to observation and to initial exchanges with the local communities. You reach Luang Namtha at the end of the day and settle in for the night.

Day 4

Day 4 - Luang Namtha - Nong Khiaw - 230 km

You continue eastward along a route punctuated by numerous bends and pronounced changes in elevation. The crossing of Oudomxay province offers an engaging and steady ride. Upon arriving in Nong Khiaw, you discover the Nam Ou River, flanked by limestone cliffs that shape local life. Overnight in Nong Khiaw in a peaceful waterside setting.

Day 5

Day 5 - Nong Khiaw - Luang Prabang - 150 km

You leave Nong Khiaw to reach Luang Prabang via the Pak Mong road. The stage is shorter and allows you to fully enjoy the scenery. Upon arrival in Luang Prabang, the former royal capital, you will have free time to begin exploring the city or simply relax after several days of driving. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 6

Day 6 - Luang Prabang - 70 km

This day is devoted to exploring Luang Prabang and its surroundings. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city is distinguished by its balance of colonial architecture, Buddhist temples and local life. You can alternate between cultural visits and short motorcycle rides around the city, according to your preferences. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 7

Day 7 - Luang Prabang - Sayaboury - 130 km

You set off again by road toward Sayaboury, passing through rubber-tree forests and rice paddies. The route crosses little‑traveled rural areas. On arrival at the Elephant Conservation Center, you learn about a project dedicated to the protection and care of elephants and speak with the on‑site teams. Overnight in the Sayaboury area.

Day 8

Day 8 - Sayaboury - Pakbeng - 180 km

You continue your journey to Pakbeng along hilly roads and a track that crosses the hills. The remainder of the route runs alongside the Mekong, offering a smooth, steady drive, marked by the river’s changing moods. You reach Pakbeng at the end of the day. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 9

Day 9 - Pakbeng - Chiang Khong - 150 km

This stage takes you back toward the Thai border across the mountains of Laos. The route alternates between hilly terrain and agricultural villages, encouraging simple, authentic encounters. After completing exit formalities in Laos, you arrive in Chiang Khong for the night.

Day 10

Day 10 - Chiang Khong - Chiang Kham - 150 km

You travel along the Laotian border and the Mekong on a ridge road offering expansive views of the river and the surrounding terrain. Driving remains smooth and pleasant throughout the day. You reach Chiang Kham at the end of the stage and settle in for the night.

Day 11

Day 11 - Chiang Kham - Chiang Mai - 220 km

On this final day of riding, you head to Chiang Mai via Phayao. A stop by the lakeside sets the pace before continuing the route through flowing dirt tracks and paved sections. You arrive in Chiang Mai late in the day and enjoy one last evening to share stories about the trip. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 12

Day 12 - Chiang Mai

Depending on your flight schedule, you will have your final moments in Chiang Mai before your transfer to the airport. This motorcycle journey between Thailand and Laos comes to an end, leaving you with the feeling of having traveled an engaging, balanced itinerary deeply rooted along the Mekong.

The Hidden Treasures of the Mekong

Follow the Mekong to discover authentic Laos.

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