Laos
Laos is a country of mountains and jungle, a little larger than Britain, with a population of less than seven million people. It is sandwiched between the economically and politically powerful neighbours of Thailand to the west, and Vietnam to the east. While to the north of Laos lies the Yunnan province of China; the emerging superpower. As a country at a crossroads, both geographically and temporally, Laos will continue to change rapidly.
We recommend visiting Laos sooner, rather than later; in order to experience the beautiful landscape, a rich Buddhist cultural heritage, and the genuine friendly, ‘laid back’ nature of the Lao people.
Your adventure in Laos can be tailored to your specifications and duration. This location is suitable for school team/youth groups and adults alike!
EXAMPLE EXPEDITION - Laos
15 Day Laos Overland Expedition (other options can be researched and combined on request)
Day 1 – Depart UK
Day 2 – Arrive Vientiane
Day 3 – Acclimatisation & Exploration of Vientiane
Day 4 – Phu Khao Khuay, Travel to park and commence trek
Day 5 – Day 2 of Phu Khao Khuay – overnight in Watch tower
Day 6 – Day 3 of Phu Khao Khuay return to Vientiane
Day 7 – Travel to Luang Prabang
Day 8 – Visit waterfalls and bear rescue sanctuary
Day 9 – Nong Khiaw
Day 10 – Muong Ngoi, Boat trip to commence trek - Jungle
Day 11 – Luang Prabang, Rest day to explore Temples
Day 12 – Vientiane, Travel Vientiane via Vang Vieng
Day 13 – Vientiane, Buddha Park and Celebration meal
Day 14 – Return to UK
This overland trekking expedition lends itself ideally to the ethos of Venture Force Schools Expeditions. By combining as number of varied activities and the fact that student team members organise and manage their own progression around the country (facilitated by experienced Expedition Leaders) it is the perfect medium for growth, physically and mentally.
Our close personal contact with this remarkable country and friendly people leaves us ideally placed to co-ordinate community projects. These can vary in length of time, degree or remoteness and range of outcome are all facets that we can blend to suit your school needs with the needs of the community.
In our experience a good community based project can make a team, provide students with an essential experience and actively promote global citizenship through community interaction. We don’t take teams half way across the world to paint a wall but work hard to ensure that our projects are worthwhile and sustainable.
With time, planning and careful consideration the Venture Force team will work with you and for you to ensure that the project is what’s required, what you and the local community want and need….not what we think is needed. Obviously physical labour is a small part of the picture, thus our ‘interactive programmes’ ensure that students really get to know how the local population live, their foods, their culture and their history leaving behind development, positive memories and advantages for student teams but more importantly our host community.
Expedition Duration: 15 Days (includes ret transport to and from Vientiane)
Description: Guided, supported trekking accommodation in guest houses & tented accommodation
Expedition Level: Beginner/Intermediate
‘Invitation to Laos’ is an expedition itinerary designed for hill-walkers who wish to enjoy a range of landscapes and who also wish to be culturally, environmentally and socially aware in their journeying. Please do not expect to travel in an insulated ‘western bubble’ of luxury hotels - and neither is this a ‘backpacker’ jaunt – If you have a love of the outdoors and are keen to learn about local culture, ways of living, religion, history, wildlife, environmental and economic issues, then please join us. However, please be aware that in travelling with us to Laos, you risk starting a South East Asian travel habit!
Click here for more information on this trek