Aerial of Pak Ou village
Kuang Si waterfalls
Wat Xieng Thong temple in Luang Prabang
Pak Ou Caves
Market in Luang Prabang
Enjoy a 6-day 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.
| Start | End | Ship | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3. Sep 2025 | 8. Sep 2025 | Mekong Pearl | check rate & cabin |
| 9. Oct 2025 | 14. Oct 2025 | Mekong Sun | check rate & cabin |
| 27. Dec 2025 | 1. Jan 2026 | Mekong Sun | check rate & cabin |
| 26. Feb 2026 | 3. Mar 2026 | Mekong Sun | check rate & cabin |
Our route: Luang Prabang – Ban Kok San – Kuang Si Falls – Pak Ou – Luang Prabang
This cruise is the perfect package for those who would like to visit Luang Prabang in combination with a unique cruise experience on the Mekong River. Savor the fantastic scenery of this majestic region on a spectacular round-trip cruise from Luang Prabang, once Laos’ royal capital, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
At 1pm, your journey begins as you are greeted and picked up from the airport or your hotel in Luang Prabang. You’ll board your German-Laotian boutique cruise ship, where your cozy and welcoming cabin awaits, ready to be your home for the next six days. After settling in, your adventure begins with a stroll through the enchanting, UNESCO-protected old town of Luang Prabang—a living museum of rich history. Climb Mount Phou Si and be rewarded with a spectacular view of the Mekong and Khan Rivers, as well as the surrounding mountains. Return to your ship’s expansive deck and enjoy refreshing drinks before joining your fellow travellers for a warm welcome reception and an exquisite dinner. Throughout the cruise, you’ll be treated to a delightful selection of both Asian and European dishes, offering a culinary journey as rich and varied as the sights you’ll encounter along the way.
Overnight on board.
In the soft glow of early morning, the streets of Luang Prabang come alive with an ancient and sacred ritual: the traditional giving of alms. Monks, draped in saffron robes, move silently through the town as you observe this timeless practice—a serene start to your day. After a delicious breakfast, your exploration begins with a guided walk through the old town, leading you to Wat Xieng Thong, the city’s most renowned temple and a masterpiece of Laotian architecture. Next, you’ll delve into the fascinating history of the National Museum of Luang Prabang, housed in the stately former royal palace. As the day unfolds, your unforgettable cruise officially begins. Departing from Luang Prabang, the ship carries you downstream through a breathtaking landscape of emerald-green hills, misty mountains, and the tranquil flow of the Mekong. Your boutique ship will come to rest at a secluded sandbank, where you’ll spend the night with the peaceful sounds of the river as your backdrop.
Overnight on board.
As you journey further downstream, the scenery transforms into a breathtaking tapestry of landscapes, interrupted only by the sight of the mighty Xayabouri Dam, Laos’ largest hydropower plant. Here, your ship turns and begins its journey back upstream toward a traditional Hmong hill tribe village. In this remote village, you’ll have the unique opportunity to meet the locals and visit the village school, which is supported by the generous donations of Mekong River Cruises guests. The heartwarming connection with the inhabitants offers an intimate glimpse into traditions of Hmong culture.
Back on board, enjoy a refreshing sundowner on the deck, or immerse yourself in the captivating stories and insights of your Cruise Director’s engaging onboard program.
Overnight on board.
During breakfast the cruise will continue further upstream to reach the Farming village Ban Muang Khai, from where you’ll be taken by tuk-tuk on a guided excursion to the famous Kuang Si Waterfalls. Right next to the waterfalls is the heartwarming “Free the Bears” rescue center, dedicated to the protection and conservation of the endangered sun and moon bears (Malayan and Tibetan bears) throughout Southeast Asia. Here, we’ll learn more about the incredible efforts to rehabilitate these gentle creatures. Enjoy lunch while the stunning panorama of Luang Prabang unfolds, slowly drifting by up north. Laos. That evening, we pause a bit earlier to prepare for our renowned Mekong River Cruises barbecue, set in a picturesque riverside location.
Overnight on board.
After breakfast, we set off to explore the legendary Pak Ou Caves, home to thousands of small Buddha statues lovingly placed by pilgrims over the centuries. From this sacred site, you have the option to embark on a jungle trek through lush greenery, leading to the local village of Ban Muang Keo. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, a short boat ride will take you to the village. Here, you can witness the ancient art of distilling Lao-Lao, the local rice whiskey of Laos, guided by Miss Somechan Khonpachith, a master of this craft who has dedicated her life to perfecting it. She will not only reveal the secrets behind this traditional technique but will also invite you to enjoy a tasting.
Back on board, a delicious lunch awaits as your river cruise ship makes its way back to Luang Prabang. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at your own pace, with the city offering countless opportunities for exploration. Before dinner, return to the sundeck to witness a traditional Lao dance performance and participate in a heartfelt Baci well-wishing ceremony.
Overnight on board.
After a final breakfast aboard, it’s time to say goodbye to the Laotian crew, cruise director, and captain, marking the end of your unforgettable journey. By 10 am, you’ll check out of your cabin and be transferred to the airport or your hotel in Luang Prabang, bringing your remarkable Mekong adventure to a close.
Tour Prices Include
Not Included
NOTE: The water level of the Mekong is constantly shifting over the year. That’s why every river cruise on the upper Mekong is a pioneering experience and subject to these changing river conditions, including floods, low water levels, and morning fog. Our vessels were built to cope with this erraticism, making it possible to safely negotiate even low water levels.
However, there are times when operating as planned will not be viable. We ask for your understanding that the itinerary of this tour may be altered because of the logistical complexities mentioned. For safety reasons, modifications of the tour program will sometimes become necessary, depending on the weather, the river conditions, or orders by local authorities. In such cases, we provide transportation by slowboat and a hotel overnight if needed. Thanks to our high flexibility and our excellent local partners, we’re able to organize exciting alternative programs whenever necessary—even on short 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.
+49 30 786 000 604
z.neyhousser@cruisemekong.com
+856 20 55660402
lukas@cruisemekong.com
22/2 Sakkarine Rd, Ban Xieng Thong,
Luang Prabang, Lao P.D.R.