Overview

Savor the stunning beauty of the Mekong River on this unforgettable cruise from the UNESCO World Heritage town of Luang Prabang in the heart of Laos to the legendary Golden Triangle in Thailand. Sail along once-remote stretches of Southeast Asia’s most exciting riv-er, with hidden wonders at every turn. Stroll through vibrant markets, immersing yourself in the rich traditions of the Laotian people. Aboard your exclusive river vessel, relax and take in the untouched beauty of the mighty upper Mekong, surrounded by lush landscapes and pris-tine nature.
  • The wild upper Mekong aboard a boutique river vessel – one of the most spectacular river cruises in the world.
  • The Golden Triangle region, with its infamous past, where Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos meet
  • The Pak Ou Caves on the Mekong – containing thousands of Buddha statues
  • The UNESCO World Heritage town of Luang Prabang, a superb fusion of numerous temples, monasteries, and French colonial architecture. One of Asia’s most beautiful historical towns
  • Atmospheric BBQ dinner under the stars on the picturesque banks of the Mekong river
  • First-hand experience of the Thai and Lao peoples’ traditional lifestyles
  • Small groups limited to 29 fellow passengers
  • Sunset over Luang Prabang
  • Unforgettable impressions of the mighty Mekong River, the “mother of waters”
  • Professional onboard infotainment, including lectures and documentaries on the region

Map

About the Journey

Tour Price Includes

  • 5 overnights in selected cabin type aboard your boutique river cruise vessel
  • Local English-speaking guides
  • Entrance fees for sightseeing mentioned in the itinerary
  • Excursions as mentioned in the itinerary
  • Tours and transfers as mentioned
  • Gratuities for local guides, drivers, performers and porters
  • Water in the vehicles and on the ship
  • Meals as indicated in the itinerary (B= Breakfast, L=Lunch, and D=Dinner)
  • Coffee, tea, and table water is complementary onboard your boutique river cruise vessel
  • Presentations and lectures onboard by the cruise director
  • Transfers from/to Chiang Rai and Luang Prabang airports or hotels within city limits (only guaranteed if information was correctly provided 4 weeks prior to embarkation, at the lat-est)

Not Included

  • Flights
  • Meals and services other than those noted in the itinerary
  • Visas for Laos
  • Laundry, telephone calls, and personal expenditures
  • Gratuities for boat crew
  • Personal, non-itinerary services
  • Alcoholic and soft drinks other than mentioned
  • Personal Insurance

Departure Dates & Pricing

Start End Dates Ship Price Availability
18.10.2026 23.10.2026 18.10.2026 23.10.2026 Mekong Pearl from 2.230 € Check Rate & Cabin
16.12.2026 21.12.2026 16.12.2026 21.12.2026 Mekong Pearl from 2.650 € Check Rate & Cabin
09.03.2027 14.03.2027 09.03.2027 14.03.2027 Mekong Pearl from 2.650 € Check Rate & Cabin

Daily Itinerary

You will be picked up from Chiang Rai Airport or your city hotel between 8–9 am, embarking on an unforgettable journey to the legendary Golden Triangle, once infamous but now celebrated for its intrigue and beauty. Your adventure begins with a visit to the majestic Golden Buddha of Sop Ruak, followed by a museum that delves into the complex history of the opium trade and its impact on health.
Afterward, you’ll board your exclusive boutique river vessel, owned through a joint venture between German and Laotian partners. Settle into your comfortable cabin, your home for the next 6 days, and let the excitement of your journey begin.
As evening falls, unwind on the spacious decks, relax in the cozy onboard lounge, and enjoy a delightful welcome dinner, setting the perfect tone for the unforgettable journey ahead.

Meals:
Dinner
Overnight Stay:
Mekong Pearl

This morning begins with your final breakfast on Thai soil, marking the start of your adventure as you cross the Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge and step into Laos. Your journey continues with a visit to the bustling border town of Huay Xay, a lively trade hub in the Bokeo province, where ‘Bokeo’ means ‘sapphire,’ a nod to the region’s rich heritage.
Afterward, your grand voyage on the mighty Mekong River truly begins as we set sail. You’ll be captivated by the breathtaking landscapes of northern Laos —lush greenery, mistcovered mountains, and peaceful riverside villages. We journey toward Pak Tha, a significant estuary of the Mekong, where we will anchor for the night, surrounded by the tranquility of this remarkable region.

Meals:
Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Overnight Stay:
Mekong Pearl

After breakfast, set off on a journey to visit one of the local hill tribe villages in the Pak Tha area, where you’ll have the chance to experience their unique way of life. Upon your return to the vessel, you’ll be greeted with refreshing drinks on the upper deck, offering a perfect moment to relax and enjoy the peaceful river atmosphere before lunch is served.
As we continue downstream, we pass through remote and untouched regions of Laos, accessible only by water. Here, the Mekong unveils some of its most stunning landscapes: lush hills draped in tropical vegetation, dramatic rock formations, and a mesmerizing mix of fast currents and calm wa-ters. Whether you choose to unwind on deck, retreat to the comfort of your cabin, or relax in the lounge, you’ll be surrounded by the beauty and tranquility of these breathtaking surroundings.

Meals:
Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Overnight Stay:
Mekong Pearl

After a peaceful morning, we arrive at a charming riverside village around midday. Here, we 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 a more relaxed pace, a short boat ride will also take you to the village.
In Ban Muang Keo, you’ll witness the ancient art of distilling Lao-Lao, the traditional rice whiskey of Laos, under the guidance of Miss Somechan Khonpachith, who has dedicated her life to mastering this craft. She’ll not only share the secrets of this time-honored technique but also invite you to enjoy a tasting.
As the day draws to a close, our ship remains anchored, surrounded by majestic limestone mountains, offering a picturesque backdrop for your evening.

Meals:
Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Overnight Stay:
Mekong Pearl

Today, you will arrive in Luang Prabang, the former royal capital of Laos and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Your adventure begins with a guided walk through the city, taking you to the famous Wat Xieng Thong Temple, a stunning example of Laotian architecture and one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
As evening approaches, you’ll ascend Mount Phou Si, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Mekong and Khan rivers, a perfect way to close the day. Afterward, you can take a leisurely stroll along the serene Mekong promenade or immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the colorful Hmong Night Market.
Back on board, a special farewell dinner awaits, celebrating the final night of your cruise. This occasion offers a chance to say goodbye to the Laotian crew, cruise director, and captain, marking the close of an unforgettable journey.

Meals:
Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Overnight Stay:
Mekong Pearl

In the early morning you can visit or attend the Tak Bat – a traditional giving of alms in the streets of Luang Prabang, where dozens of orange robed monks and novices walk through the streets and alleys of Luang Prabangs’ old town. Afterward, your guide will lead you through the bustling local morning market, where the air is filled with the fragrant aromas of exotic spices, locally grown teas, and freshly brewed Laotian coffee.
After breakfast, you’ll check out and disembark, carrying with you the unforgettable memories of your journey along the Mighty Mekong. Our shared adventure concludes with a transfer to the airport or a city hotel in Luang Prabang.

Meals:
Breakfast

Departure Dates & Pricing

Start End Dates Ship Price Availability
03.02.2027 08.02.2027 03.02.2027 08.02.2027 Mekong Sun from 2.450 € Check Rate & Cabin
11.11.2026 16.11.2026 11.11.2026 16.11.2026 Mekong Sun from 2.450 € Check Rate & Cabin
15.09.2026 20.09.2026 15.09.2026 20.09.2026 Mekong Sun from 1.790 € Check Rate & Cabin

Daily Itinerary

From 3 PM it’s time to board your exclusive boutique river vessel, uniquely owned through a joint venture between German and Laotian partners. Settle into your inviting cabin, your home for the next 6 days.
Your first evening promises cultural enchantment: enjoy a traditional Lao dance performance and a heartwarming Baci well-wishing ceremony, followed by our Mekong River Cruises Welcome 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.

Meals:
Dinner
Overnight Stay:
Mekong Sun/Pearl

During breakfast, your cruise takes you upstream where we explore the legendary Pak Ou Caves, inhabited by 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 you to the local village of Ban Muang Keo. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, a short boat ride will take you to the village. You can witness the ancient art of distilling Lao-Lao, the local rice whiskey of Laos, guided by Miss Somechan Khonpachith, who has dedicated her life to mastering this craft. She will not only reveal the secrets of this ancient technique but also invite you to a tasting.
In the afternoon, your ship continues cruising upstream towards Oudomxay Province, passing by the construction site of the Pak Ou Dam. The rest of the afternoon is yours to relax at your leisure, whether you choose to unwind on deck or join our Cruise Director for an engaging infotainment program.

Meals:
Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Overnight Stay:
Mekong Sun/Pearl

As you continue upstream, the river traffic thins out, allowing you to fully enjoy the stunning land-scapes that surround you. You can unwind on deck, in your comfortable cabin, or in the lounge, soaking up the sun as the landscape transforms into a breathtaking panorama: hills blanketed in lush tropical vegetation, striking rock formations along the riverbanks, and a captivating mix of swift currents and calm waters. The vibrant life along the river and the majestic power of the Mekong creates a true sense of adventure and discovery.

Meals:
Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Overnight Stay:
Mekong Sun/Pearl

Today, unwind on deck as you soak in the diverse landscapes and the serene beauty of northern Laos, offering a true escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. As the lush green hills pass by, your ship cruises toward the Nam Tha, one of the Mekong’s most significant estuaries. In the evening, savor our renowned Mekong River Cruises barbecue dinner, set in a picturesque riverside location.

Meals:
Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Overnight Stay:
Mekong Sun/Pearl

After breakfast, embark on a journey to one of the local hill tribe villages in the Pak Tha area, where you’ll have the chance to experience their unique way of life. Following your visit, return to the ship for the final leg of your river cruise, soaking in the stunning landscapes as you sail toward the Thailand–Laos border. The journey concludes in the bustling border town of Huay Xay, a vibrant trade hub in Bokeo province, where ‘Bokeo’ means ‘sapphire,’ reflecting the region’s rich heritage. Explore the lively town market and visit the peaceful temple overlooking the Mekong. If time permits, we’ll cross into Thailand via the Thai/Lao Friendship Bridge. In the evening, we’ll celebrate the memories and adventures shared during this unforgettable voyage with a special farewell dinner on the Mekong.

Meals:
Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Overnight Stay:
Mekong Sun/Pearl

After breakfast, say your goodbyes to the Laotian crew as you complete the checkout process and disembark from your boutique ship in Chiang Khong. From there, you’ll be transported to the legendary Golden Triangle region, once infamous but now steeped in intrigue and history. During your guided tour, you’ll visit the majestic Golden Buddha of Sop Ruak and explore a museum that offers a profound exploration of the opium trade’s complex history and its impact on health. Afterward, you’ll be transferred to either the airport or your hotel in Chiang Rai, bringing your journey to a close (PLEASE NOTE: Flights departing before 18:00 will conflict with the program and incur additional costs for a private transfer).

Overnight Stay:

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about your Mekong River cruise adventure

Our travel reviews

Discover why thousands of adventurers choose our authentic Mekong River experiences year after year.

Brockmeyer 6. February 2023

" Our expectations regarding the trip on the Mekong were met in every respect: from arrival to departure, we were accompanied competently and with great empathy. Everyone involved in the trip—from the tour guide to the ship’s boys—did a professional job. Special requests and individual rebookings went smoothly. The variety of activities along the way gave us a good insight into a relatively unknown country in terms of politics, economics (economic dependencies), geographical conditions, its dramatic history, and, last but not least, the modest everyday life of its people. K. Brockmeyer "

Bärbel and Michael from Jena 20. January 2025

" Every day was special and remains unforgettable. Even the organization was amazing. Everything was planned precisely and worked down to the last detail. The entire ship’s crew was on hand to assist guests with disembarking and embarking. Because there were no ports where we docked. We were on the wild Mekong River, and the ship anchored almost exclusively at sandy shores. And in general, the entire staff was always very attentive. They quickly learned the individual wishes of the passengers and adapted to them. Everything was always lovingly prepared. The cabins as well as the restaurant and the food. Our… "

Manfred B. 27. March 2025

" I have personally been to the Indochina Triangle several times, but this time I was truly impressed. The ship could not have been better, and the entire staff was more than friendly and courteous. There was nothing to complain about when it came to the food. The kitchen performed at its best. The flights, transfers, hotels, excursions, and other additional services also matched the quality already mentioned. Overall, the price-performance ratio was more than good! "

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