After a 2-hour transfer by minivan we arrive at Kiu Kacham, at an altitude of 1,350m. The first part of this stage, you'll cycle between 1000 and 1400 meters to Phou Khoun. After Phou Khoun, you'll enjoy a long descent with great views, bringing you to the green valley of Kasi. There are three possible starting points for today's ride. Your guide will discuss the options with you the evening prior.

Cycling: ~95km max (shorter options available - paved roads)

This morning we cycle through incredible scenery as we make our way from Kasi to Vang Vieng, riding through lush lowlands alongside rivers, caves and dramatic limestone karst hills. Vang Vieng is set on a bend in the tranquil Nam Song River, surrounded by spectacular scenery of rugged limestone outcrops clad in thick jungle. The beautiful Nam Song River is fringed in lush greenery and its riverbanks are dotted with guesthouses, bars and restaurants. This day will be much easier, as we cover a shorter distance on gentle rolling hills to Vang Vieng, which we'll reach in time for lunch. In the afternoon you can choose to visit the Tham Xang or Tham Hoi caves, which are set among the dramatic scenery on the banks of the Nam Song River. Relax with a Lao beer and watch the sun set over the mountains you have just crossed.

Cycling: ~48km (paved roads)

Continuing on the main road, you cycle to the ‘sea of Laos’: the 250 square kilometers, artificial Lake Nam Ngum. A 2-hour boat ride brings you to the dam, where you'll have your choice of great fish restaurants. After lunch, you'll continue on a quiet back road through small, hidden valleys and authentic villages. You stay overnight on the banks of the Nam Ngum River.

Cycling: ~55km (paved roads)

Today, you cycle through beautiful scenery of terraced rice paddies, rugged forested slopes and the sheer sandstone cliffs of the Phou Khao Kouay mountain range before entering the capital city of Laos: Vientiane. You’ll cycle through the suburbs on your way to the center of this bustling, historical city situated along the bank of the Mekong. The afternoon is free at leisure to explore Vientiane’s temples, markets and handsome colonial architecture. A final pasta party in the city center to celebrate completion of the trip, by this time you will have eaten enough rice to last a lifetime.

Cycling: ~65km (20km dirt road, 45km paved roads)