Highlights of Northern Laos with Mekong River Cruises
From Luang Prabang, To Kuang Si Falls, Pak Ou Caves, Ban Kok San, Mekong River landscapes - 5 Nights
- Departing from:
- Luang Prabang,
- Destination:
- Kuang Si Falls, Pak Ou Caves, Ban Kok San, Mekong River landscapes
- Duration:
- 5 Nights
- Offer:
- Regular cruises October to February. Request a quote and firm dates through to 2024
- Tour Operator:
- Lernidee Trains & Cruises
- Reference Code:
- Lernidee
From
US$1,080
Price per person
Package Details
Overview
Enjoy a 6-day round-trip journey through once inaccessible regions of Southeast Asia’s majestic Mekong River on a state-of-the-art boutique ship. Sail by dense jungle wilderness with ease, and marvel at the unspoiled nature of the region.
Details
DAY 1: Boarding in Luang Prabang (D)
At 1 pm you transfer from your centrally located hotel or from Luang Prabang Airport to your boutique German–Laotian cruise ship, where you check in at 1:30 pm and settle into your comfortable, stylish cabin and unpack for a six-day cruise. Your adventure begins with a walk up Mount Phou Si, which offers a spectacular sunset view of the Mekong and Khan Rivers and surrounding mountains. In the evening, you enjoy a stroll along the Mekong promenade or visit the colourful Hmong night market. You enjoy the ship’s spacious decks and lounge before attending your welcome reception and dinner. A selection of Asian and European food is provided throughout the cruise. Overnight on board.
DAY 2: Departure from Luang Prabang (BLD)
In the early morning, you can observe the traditional giving of alms in the streets of Luang Prabang. After breakfast on board, you enjoy a half-day guided sightseeing tour, which includes the famous Wat Xieng Thong temple. Later your spectacular cruise begins with your departure from Luang Prabang, taking you downstream through beautiful scenery. Your boutique ship moors at a secluded sandbank, where you spend the night. Overnight on board.
DAY 3: Wild Nature Along the Mighty Mekong (BLD)
Further downstream you discover more remarkable, impressive Mekong River landscapes. You enjoy your morning on board before your ship turns around and heads back upstream to visit a traditional Hmong hill tribe village in the afternoon. There you visit a local village school, which is supported by donations from guests of Mekong River Cruises. Later you continue to enjoy the beautiful views and watch nature’s wonders along the banks of the Mekong before finding a place to moor the night. Overnight on board.
DAY 4: Kuang Si Waterfalls (BLD)
After breakfast on board, you can relax on board and possibly spot local fishermen as your cruise continues upstream. After a few hours, you go ashore and continue by tuk-tuk to the famous Kuang Si Falls, some of Laos’ most remarkable waterfalls. After passing Luang Prabang, your ship stops again at a sandbank for the night. That evening, you enjoy our famous Mekong River Cruises barbecue dinner on the breathtaking banks of the Mekong. Overnight on board.
DAY 5: Pak Ou Caves (BLD)
After breakfast on board, you explore the famous Pak Ou Caves, inhabited by thousands of small Buddha statues. Today you can take a short walk through the jungle and visit a Laotian village where you can observe how Lao-Lao, a Laotian spirit, is traditionally distilled. Before returning to your boutique Mekong ship, you can see elephants at work, unless they are busy with an off-site job at the time of your visit. Later you enjoy a few hours of cruising the Mekong River amidst beautiful landscapes before returning to Luang Prabang, where you enjoy the afternoon at your leisure. You celebrate your last evening on board with a farewell dinner and a beautiful Baci ceremony, a traditional Lao friendship ritual. Overnight on board.
DAY 6: Farewell, Mekong River! (B)
After breakfast, you say goodbye to your Laotian crew. You check out before 10 am, disembark your boutique ship and transfer to the airport, bringing an end to your unforgettable Mekong River cruise.
Inclusions
Tour Prices Include
-
- 5 nights aboard your boutique river vessel, the Mekong Sun
- Meals according to itinerary (B= Breakfast, L=Lunch, and D=Dinner)
- Coffee, tea and water are complimentary on board
- All excursions and necessary entry fees according to itinerary
- Presentations and lectures by your cruise director
- Transfers between airports and hotels within city limits
Not Included
- Flights
- Meals and services other than those noted in the itinerary
- Visa fees
- Laundry, telephone calls and personal expenditures
- Gratuities for guides, drivers, porters, boat crew, and personal, non-itinerary services
- Alcoholic and soft drinks other than mentioned
- Personal insurance
- Video or photography fees (if requested during excursions)
Terms
NOTE: Every river cruise on the upper Mekong is a pioneering experience and is subject to constantly changing river conditions, including floodwaters and shallows. Therefore, please understand that we must reserve the right to alter the itinerary of this tour due to the logistical complexities involved. Small deviations in the tour program are sometimes necessary, depending on weather and river conditions. For safety reasons and according to navigating conditions, these programs may be amended without previous notice.
This journey is generally not for guests with limited mobility or who depend on CPAP machines. Please contact us for more information about your specific requirements before booking.