Early morning pickup from 8:15 – 09:00 am, then we leave for the Nam Ou river. We drive northward  to Ban Soum Sa nouk.  From there we start kayak on the Nam Ou River. We enjoy a breathtaking view of the tranquil countryside and see a wonderful nature built limestone cliffs called Pha Aen on the way. 1 hour kayaking takes us to the first destination the confluence of the Nam Ou and Mekong Rivers, Pak Ou.

Upon arrival at Pak Ou, we visit the famous Pak Ou Caves – two linked caves crammed with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes left by devoted pilgrims. Exploring the caves about 30 min, we start the second course of the kayaking on the Mekong River. We paddle down the Mekong for 30 minutes until we ended our journey at Manifa Elephant Camp. There we enjoy a beautiful buffet style lunch at the restaurant – overlooking the Mekong River.

After lunch break, you will visit the mahout (elephant handler) village in Manifa Elephant Camp and learn about their daily routine as you watch a demonstration of an elephant health check. Your guide will explain the elephants while you watch as they examine the elephant’s eyes, ears, mouth, and feet and measure the body.

You will learn how to introduce yourself to your elephant and how to mount your elephant to ride bareback. Then you will have an intimate interaction with one of our elephant families. (One elephant for one person) You will ride your elephant and explore the jungle. These interactions and riding provide elephants with opportunities for exercise and stress relief. Finally you feed and care for your elephant with organic vegetables and fruits.

We will return to Luang Prabang by boat. Enjoy the sunset.