Luang Prabang, Laos

Our stop in Luang Prabang might have been short but turned out to be a truly unforgettable experience. This charming city, nestled in northern Laos, offered us a blend of culture and natural beauty that we won’t forget.

Our adventure began with a visit to Wat Xiang Thong, the oldest temple in Luang Prabang. The carvings and structure of the temples were nothing short of amazing. We wandered through the temple grounds, soaking in the serene atmosphere.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to the vibrant night market. The air was filled with the delicious mouth watering smell of food, and we couldn’t resist sampling some traditional Lao street food. From pho, to dumplings, coconut ice cream, and of course Beer Lao every bite and sip was a delight! We also enjoyed browsing the stalls, which were filled with handcrafted goods and beautiful textiles.

The following day, we embarked on a day trip to the Mandalao Elephant Conservation, a true highlight of our time in Laos. Located just outside of Luang Prabang, this sanctuary is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating elephants that have been subjected to mistreatment from labor and tourism. It was heartwarming to see these majestic creatures roaming freely, enjoying their time in a natural and supportive environment. We had the opportunity to feed and trek the elephants, which was exhilarating! Learning about the efforts of Mandalao to protect and care for Laos’s dwindling elephant population was truly inspiring.

Laos is home to a population of less than 800 elephants, but their numbers have been declining due to habitat loss and exploitation. Mandalao’s work is crucial in reversing this trend by providing a safe haven and advocating for their protection. Seeing the elephants so well cared for was a reminder of how important it is to take action before these gentle giants creatures are gone.