Thailand & Laos

Introduction to the Thailand & Laos expedition

The contrast between Thailand and Laos is stark. The composed serenity of small hilltribe villages and quiet contentment of the Buddhist wats scattering Laos is worlds apart from the busy drive for economic development that is immediately apparent when arriving into Bangkok. 

An expedition combining these two destinations will enable teams to see two sides of Southeast Asia, visiting the most cosmopolitan country in the region along with the most traditional.

Thailand image gallery
Laos has a relatively undeveloped infrastructure, with many areas still accessible only by boat. With the Mekong forming the main artery of the country, the expedition is likely to include numerous river journeys as well as trekking in some of the pristine, unspoilt jungle that the hills of the north has to offer.

By contrast, neighbouring Thailand has long been a popular destination for travellers. However, this expedition will spend only a fraction of the time visiting popular tourist sites and instead teams can head into areas that are rarely accessed, visiting remote hill-tribe villages, enjoying opportunities for rafting and elephant riding and at the end of the expedition relaxing on an exotic beach!

Thailand and Laos map
Thailand & Laos expedition summary
  Location: Thailand & Laos, South East Asia
Duration: 28 days
Ideal for: A rich cultural experience away from the tourist route
Highlights: The rich buddhist culture of Laos, rafting and elephant riding and the exotic beaches of Thailand.
 

The Expedition Program Manager for Thailand and Laos will agree a suitable expedition itinerary for you to best match the abilities and aspirations of your team.

Please note: Laos is a relatively new destination for World Challenge, so the choice of activities is likely to develop and change in the months leading up to departure as more research is carried out.
Trekking in Laos Thailand expedition Thailand expedition

Trekking
Teams can choose to trek in Thailand or Laos. Trekking in Laos is likely to involve a three to four day remote jungle trek in one of the country’s national parks.

Possible trekking areas in Thailand include the Um Phang region near Mae Sot, and the region north-west of Chiang Rai. All these trekking itineraries could include an elephant ride and stopovers in remote hill-tribe villages. In some itineraries it may be possible to do some white-water rafting, although such options would incur an additional cost.

Projects
Thailand is a well-established project destination and Laos, as one of the world’s poorest countries, has many agencies that will appreciate help from teams. From working in schools and orphanages, to community development schemes, project work here will be a unique cultural experience for all involved.

Rest and Relaxation
Due to Thailand’s extensive coastline there is no lack of beautiful beaches and islands to relax on. Basic beach huts are available or the team may wish to simply sling their hammocks from the trees along the beach. The stunning town of Luang Prabang on the banks of the Mekong should also be considered as a rest and relaxation destination.


Find out more
T +61 (0) 395 317 780 - Australia
T 0800 456 134 - New Zealand
T (852) 8170 3646 - Hong Kong 
E support@worldchallenge.com.au