Rise early to complete border formalities at Chiang Khong, then plunge into Laos’s rugged backcountry—where dusty red tracks carve through emerald forests and waterfalls spill into hidden river valleys. After winding alongside the Mekong’s mist-shrouded banks, pause for a roadside lunch of Lao larb and sticky rice in a hill-tribe village, then navigate steep jungle climbs to cross the Nam Tha River.

By mid-afternoon you’ll arrive in Luang Namtha, a laid-back riverside town ringed by teak forest and minority-run villages. Spend the evening exploring the vibrant night market, sampling smoky grilled fish and fresh papaya salad, learning traditional weaving and bamboo-boat fishing beneath a canopy of ancient banyan trees.

Depart Luang Namtha at first light, threading through mist-cloaked peaks on narrow jungle tracks that reveal hidden waterfalls and tribal hamlets peeking through the bamboo. Climb steadily toward Boten, the quiet border town where old trading posts and colorful Chinese storefronts hint at cross-border commerce. After a riverside lunch of steaming khao poon and fresh herbs, tackle a series of hairpin bends that drop you into deep valleys carpeted in tea plantations.

Continue southwest on gravel backroads, passing wooden stilt houses and swaying bamboo groves, until you roll into Oudomxay by late afternoon. Here, settle into a Namkat Yorla Pa Resort, wander the bustling market at dusk, zip line and toast the day’s mileage over cold Beer Lao and a fiery tam mak hoong (papaya salad).

Set out at dawn, carving your way through emerald jungles on twisty, tree-lined asphalt and gravel roads that skirt misty streams and cross wooden plank bridges. Feel the temperature drop as you ascend ridgelines, then swoop down into hidden valleys where locals haul firewood on ox-drawn carts. Midday, ford a shallow river via a rustic cable-pulled ferry, then follow the Nam Khan tributary toward the confluence with the Mekong.

As you approach Luang Prabang, the landscape transforms: elegant French-colonial villas draped in bougainvillea stand alongside saffron-clad monks strolling through ancient walled temples. Arrive by late afternoon and check in to your riverside hotel—conveniently flanked by a vibrant night market on one side and an irresistible French bakery on the other. Wander teak-floored streets to catch the golden glow on Wat Xieng Thong’s ornate roofs, then browse the night market stalls for handmade scarves and spicy Lao snacks. Before you turn in, treat yourself to a fresh croissant or pain au chocolat at the bakery next door, accompanied by a richly brewed Lao coffee.

Rise early and ride out to the spectacular Kuang Si Waterfall, trekking forested paths down to its turquoise pools. Swim beneath the cascades, visit the nearby bear sanctuary, and refuel with a light snack at the on-site café.
Back in the saddle, wind south along shaded lanes to the Nam Xay Viewpoint, where a short hike rewards you with sweeping panoramas over karst pinnacles and the Nam Ou River carving its way through the valley.

From here, descend into a nearby mountainside restaurant for a hearty lunch—think sticky rice, smoky grilled chicken and fresh papaya salad—while you gaze out over the limestone peaks.

The real challenge comes next: the descent from Nam Xay. This rugged, steep stretch features loose gravel, tight hairpins and slick sections that demand your full concentration and skill. Take it slow, pick your line carefully, and savor every adrenaline-fuelled turn as you drop into the valley below.

Once down, the afternoon unfolds along twisty backroads threading through emerald jungle and towering cliffs. Stop for one last roadside refreshment before the landscape opens onto broad river plains, revealing Vang Vieng’s jagged skyline. Roll into town by late afternoon, check into your hotel on the Nam Song River, and unwind with a sunset paddle or a cold Beer Lao at a riverside bar—your base for tomorrow’s tubing, cliff-jumping and live-music nightlife.

Breakfast riverside at your hotel before hitting the road south toward Laos’s laid-back capital. You’ll cruise scenic secondary roads and stretch your legs on intermittent dirt tracks that thread through rice paddies and sleepy villages, catching glimpses of temple spires rising above coconut palms. Midday, pause in a roadside hamlet for khao soi or noodle soup, then continue across gently rolling plains until you reach Vientiane’s leafy boulevards.

Check into your hotel overlooking the Mekong, where you can stroll its broad promenade lined with riverside cafés serving strong Lao coffee and French-influenced pastries. In the afternoon, explore cultural highlights like the gilded stupa of Pha That Luang, the Arc de Triomphe–inspired Patuxai monument, and the serene Wat Si Saket cloister; finish the day sipping sunset cocktails as traditional longboats drift by on the river.

Today’s pace slows to match the capital’s unhurried rhythm. Sleep in and savor a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, then choose your own adventure:

• Temple Trail: Meander through Wat Ho Phra Keo’s ornate galleries, admire the mirror-studded façade of Wat Ong Teu Mahawihan, and pay respects at the peaceful Wat Sisaket with its cloister of thousands of Buddha statues.
• Wellness Break: Treat yourself to a traditional Lao herbal massage or foot reflexology at a riverside spa, letting skilled hands knead away any lingering stiffness.
• Riverside Reverie: Grab a cold Beer Lao or iced coffee at a Mekong-front café, watch longtail boats drift by, and dip your toes in the gentle current.
• Poolside Chill: Head back to the hotel for a refreshing swim; lounge beneath a swaying palm, catch up on a book, or simply soak up the sunshine.

In the evening, consider sampling modern Lao cuisine at a farm-to-table bistro or joining the locals for sunset prayers at Pha That Luang’s golden stupa—whatever you choose, you’ll be fully recharged and ready for tomorrow’s onward journey.

Rise with the sun and make your way east to the Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge at Nong Khai, where you’ll breeze through immigration and customs before rolling onto smooth asphalt back in Thailand. From Nong Khai, head northeast, skirting rice fields and small villages as you approach Phu Kao–Phu Phan Kham National Park.

If time allows, take a short detour to explore its limestone cliffs, hidden caves, and shaded jungle trails. Continue onward toward Lom Sak, winding through lush countryside and spotting roadside stalls offering local snacks.

Finally, arrive at the hotel at the foothill of Phetchabun Mountain range—settle in, unwind in comfort, and recharge for the adventures that lie ahead.

Rise ready for the grand finale as you leave Lom Sak and carve your way toward Nan. Your morning begins with a climb up to Phu Tub Berk (1,794 m)—a legendary stretch of road featuring 111 curves. This thrilling ascent is often mentioned as the highlight of the trip, particularly when experienced at dawn, with the sunrise illuminating the misty valleys below.

From the summit, enjoy sweeping panoramic views before descending into the lush valley below. Next, wind through the emerald-green expanse of Phu Suan Sai National Park, where shaded forest sections and gentle curves create a perfect counterpoint to the earlier climb.

Finally, drop into the charming, picture-perfect town of Nan—nestled between rolling hills—where riverside temples and narrow streets await your exploration.

Depart Nan at first light, tracing winding riverside roads northward into rolling foothills. The air is crisp as you climb out of the valley, passing terraced rice fields and tiny village temples framed by misty peaks.

Mid-morning, arrive at the shores of Kwan Phayao, one of northern Thailand’s largest freshwater lakes. Park by a charming waterside restaurant and settle in for a leisurely lunch of fresh river fish, tangy tam mak hoong and zesty som tum—your final feast amid panoramic lake views and gentle breezes.

Refueled and refreshed, mount up for the last leg: a sweeping ride west on smooth asphalt that snakes through coffee plantations, eucalyptus groves and bamboo-lined stretches. As you descend toward Chiang Mai, the silhouette of Doi Suthep emerges on the horizon. Roll back into town by late afternoon, glide through the ancient city gates, and check in at your hotel.

This evening, join your fellow riders for a celebratory dinner in the Old City—a chance to swap stories, clink glasses and toast the completion of an unforgettable 1,600 km journey across two countries. You’ve conquered mountain passes, crossed international borders and ridden some of Southeast Asia’s most spectacular backroads. Welcome home to Chiang Mai!