To provide an all-encompassing insight into Vientiane and its rich history and culture, this half-day guided tour visits the city’s elegant temples, unique monuments and French colonial buildings before ending with a leisurely stroll along the Mekong. The morning or afternoon to your interests and passions and we can organise this tour via air-conditioned car or van, or travel the eco-friendly way on a bicycle – the roads are flat and relatively quiet and travelling like the locals is a great way to see the city!
Your tour will likely begin at the serene Wat Sisaket, the only temple left intact after the Siamese (Thai) invasion in 1828 and then continue on to the nearby Wat Phra Keo, used as a religious museum, displaying a collection of both Lao and Khmer works of art.
Also nearby is the Presidential Palace. Although you are not allowed to visit inside, it is a good glimpse in to the town’s colonial past as this building formerly served as the French governor’s palace.
Continue to the Patuxay monument, and end your tour strolling along the banks of the Mekong River, stopping to enjoy a cold drink or sample a snack from one of the many local food stalls.
For those on a longer tour, your final visit is COPE, an association working to help landmine victims and a visit to the centre provides in-depth information about the history of the American/Vietnam war and the lasting impact of unexploded ordinances (UXO) in the area and the efforts underway to clear them.