This expedition on the upper Mekong river traverses Laos to touch Thailand and Burma at the famous Golden Triangle, once the heart of opium growing and now opened up to tourism.
From Vientiane, the old French colonial capital of Laos, our river expedition crosses Laos to the Thai border. Stop for two nights at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Luang Prabang, the ancient Laos capital and temple city with its dazzling wood carved monasteries, before continuing deep into the mountains through dramatic scenery and gorges. There are visits to tribal villages and explorations into jungle and countryside.
The river adventure includes an excursion from Chiang Sean into the Golden Triangle area.
Our high powered river ships have been specially designed for the river conditions of the upper Mekong. The itinerary for this expedition is indicative only - as it travels into remote areas changes to the itinerary will inevitably occur. A flexible approach is required if you book this cruise.
PD242 Operated by Pandaw River Adventures
.
Laos and Mekong River Cruise Adventure Itinerary
Day 1 - Vientiane (Laos)
Arrive in Vientiane, the capital of Laos. Vientiane is the capital and largest city of Laos, situated on the Mekong river near the border with Thailand, and retains many signs of its French colonial history. Later, transfer to the port to embark the ship.
Day 2 - Ban Sanakham
Ban Sanakham is an important border crossing between Laos and Thailand. Here you can visit the cultivated plains of the Vientiane province.
Day 3 - Pak Lai
Visit Pak Lai, a former French administrative centre with many colonial buildings and a busy local market. The town boasts the largest elephant festival in South East Asia, usually in February. Pak Lai is known for the sacred Wat Sisavang temple, and is the gateway to the Sainyabuli province.
Day 4 - Ban Park Bor
Reach the traditional village of Ban Park Bor, on the banks of the Mekong.
Day 5 - Ban Mouang Khai Village - Luang Prabang
This morning, visit a Hmong village before continuing upstream to the village of Ban Mouang Khai. This afternoon, travel by minibus to the jungle pools and Khaung Si waterfall then on to a butterfly garden. Later, arrive in Luang Prabang.
Day 6 - Luang Prabang
Historically, Luang Prabang is the capital of Laos. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located at the confluence of the Nam Khan and Mekong Rivers. It is steeped in culture and home to the Haw Kham, once a royal palace and now a national museum, plus Vat Zieng Toung.
Day 7 - Pak Ou Buddha Caves
The Tham Ting and Tham Theung caves are located at the mouth of the Ou River. They are renowned for their mini statues of Buddha, each depicting the deity in different positions.
Day 8 - Pak Beng
Pak Beng offers a glimpse of rural life in Laos, away from the hustle and bustle. It is only accessible via the Mekong River and upon arrival, the locals will welcome you into their village.
Day 9 - Ban Houayxay
Enjoy scenic walks through this tranquil town which has several small bars and restaurants.
Day 10 - Chiang Sean (Thailand)
Chiang Sean is in the northern part of the Chiang Rai Province and is an important port for Thailand's trade with other countries.
Day 11 - Chiang Sean
Disembark and transfer to the airport. En route, explore the Golden Triangle including visit to the opium museum.
The itinerary for this expedition is indicative only - as it travels into remote areas changes to the itinerary will inevitably occur. A flexible approach is required if you book this cruise.