After breakfast, drive 14 km north to Tham Xang (Elephant Cave), a Buddhist temple known for limestone formations resembling elephants. Continue to Tham Hoi (Snail Cave) for a 45-minute exploration of winding corridors and stunning formations. Visit the Loop Cave and Tham Nam (Water Cave), where you can swim and tube through clear waters during the dry season. Trek 2 km to the Hmong village of Phathao, passing rice paddies and vegetable gardens.

Return to Vang Vieng and drive to Vientiane in the afternoon, a charming capital blending Lao, Thai, Chinese, Vietnamese, and French influences.

• Overnight in Vientiane.
• B,L