






Highlights of Northern Laos, 6-Day Round-Trip Mekong River Cruise from Luang Prabang
Highlights of Northern Laos, 6-Day Round-Trip Mekong River Cruise from Luang Prabang
- Cruise name : Mekong River Cruise
- Company : Mekong River Cruise
- Class : Luxury
- Capacity : 14 cabin
- Type : Sharing
- Destination : Laos - Laos
Itineraries
Your adventure begins at 1:00 PM with a warm welcome as we pick you up from the airport or your hotel in Luang Prabang. Step aboard our charming German-Laotian boutique cruise ship, where your elegant and comfortable cabin awaits—your home for the next six days.
After settling in, embark on a guided exploration of Luang Prabang’s UNESCO-listed old town, a place where time seems to stand still. Climb to the summit of Mount Phou Si for a breathtaking panoramic view of the Mekong and Khan Rivers, framed by the misty mountains beyond.
As the sun begins to set, return to the ship’s spacious deck for a refreshing drink before joining your fellow travelers for a warm welcome reception. Indulge in a delightful dinner featuring a harmonious blend of Asian and European cuisine, setting the tone for the culinary delights that await throughout your journey.
Overnight on board.
Meals included: Breakfast (B)
Awaken early to witness or participate in one of Laos’ most sacred traditions—the serene morning alms-giving ceremony. Watch as lines of saffron-robed monks walk silently through the streets of Luang Prabang, receiving offerings from devoted locals.
After breakfast on board, immerse yourself in the city’s rich heritage with a guided tour. Visit the magnificent Wat Xieng Thong, a true architectural masterpiece, followed by an exploration of the National Museum of Luang Prabang, formerly the royal palace, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s regal past.
By midday, your unforgettable river journey officially begins. As the ship sets sail, you’ll glide past stunning landscapes of emerald-green hills and misty mountains, following the gentle curves of the mighty Mekong. As night falls, we anchor at a tranquil sandbank, where the soothing sounds of the river provide the perfect backdrop for a peaceful evening.
Overnight on board.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, and dinner (BLD)
Today, as we cruise deeper into the heart of Laos, the scenery shifts dramatically, revealing towering cliffs, dense jungle, and hidden villages along the riverbanks. One of the highlights of the day is passing by the Xayabouri Dam, Laos’ largest hydroelectric project, a testament to the country’s modernization while balancing nature and progress.
From here, we begin our journey upstream, heading toward a remote Hmong hill tribe village. This special visit offers a rare and heartfelt encounter with the local community. Explore their traditional way of life and visit the village school, which receives ongoing support from the kind donations of our Mekong River Cruises guests.
As the day winds down, relax with a sundowner on the deck or take part in an engaging cultural program led by our Cruise Director, offering deeper insights into the history, traditions, and diverse cultures of the Mekong.
Overnight on board.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, and dinner (BLD)
As the sun rises, enjoy a leisurely breakfast on board while our cruise continues upstream. We arrive at Ban Muang Khai, a charming farming village, where a traditional tuk-tuk ride awaits to take you on an exciting excursion to the breathtaking Kuang Si Waterfalls.
Cascading through lush greenery into turquoise pools, these famous falls offer a perfect setting for relaxation and stunning photography. Right beside the falls, we visit the “Free the Bears” rescue center, dedicated to the conservation of endangered sun bears and moon bears. Learn about the inspiring efforts to rehabilitate these gentle creatures and protect them from poaching and illegal wildlife trade.
Back on board, enjoy a delicious lunch as the tranquil scenery of northern Laos drifts past. That evening, we drop anchor earlier than usual to prepare for a special Mekong River Cruises barbecue—an unforgettable riverside dining experience under the stars.
Overnight on board.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, and dinner (BLD)
After breakfast, our journey takes us to one of Laos’ most sacred spiritual sites—the Pak Ou Caves. Nestled within towering limestone cliffs, these ancient caves house thousands of Buddha statues, placed by devoted pilgrims over the centuries.
From here, you have two options:
- For the adventurous: Embark on a scenic jungle trek through the lush surroundings to the nearby village of Ban Muang Keo.
- For a more relaxed experience: Enjoy a short boat ride to the village, where you’ll discover the fascinating art of Lao-Lao distillation.
In Ban Muang Keo, meet Miss Somechan Khonpachith, a master of traditional Lao-Lao rice whiskey making. She will unveil the secrets of this ancient craft and invite you to taste the locally brewed spirit, a cherished part of Laotian culture.
As we sail back toward Luang Prabang, indulge in a delightful lunch onboard. The afternoon is yours to explore the city at your own pace. Before dinner, gather on the sundeck to enjoy a traditional Lao dance performance, followed by a heartfelt Baci well-wishing ceremony, a beautiful farewell tradition in Laos.
Overnight on board.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, and dinner (BLD)
Savor your final breakfast on board as we make our way back to Luang Prabang. By 10:00 AM, it’s time to bid farewell to the crew, cruise director, and captain, marking the end of your unforgettable journey. You will be transferred to the airport or your hotel, carrying with you the memories of an extraordinary adventure along the Mekong River.
Overnight on board.
Meals included: Breakfast (B)
Check rate
Important Notes
Tour Prices Include
- 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, porters and performers
- 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 latest)
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, and personal, non-itinerary services
- Alcoholic and soft drinks other than mentioned
- Personal Insurance
Other itineraries
(D) 11-Day Mekong River Cruise Through Laos and Thailand from Chiang Rai to Vientiane
Downstream
Destination : Golden Triangle – Huay Xay – Pak Tha – Pak Ou – Luang Prabang – Kuang Si Falls – Xayabouri Dam – Salakham – Vientiane
(U) 11 Day Mekong River Cruise Through Laos and Thailand from Vientiane to Chiang Rai
Upstream
Destination : Vientiane – Salakham – Xayabouri Dam – Kuang Si Falls – Luang Prabang – Pak Ou – Huay Xay – Pak Tha – Golden Triangle
(D) Laos Revealed - 6-Day Mekong River Cruise from Golden Triangle to Luang Prabang
Destination : Golden Triangle – Huay Xai – Pak Tha – Pak Ou – Luang Prabang
(U) Laos Revealed - 6-Day Mekong River Cruise from Luang Prabang to Golden Triangle
Upstream
Destination : Luang Prabang – Pak Ou – Pak Tha – Huay Xai – Golden Triangle
(D) Impression of the Mekong 6-Day Mekong River Cruise from Luang Prabang to Vientiane
Downstream
Destination : LUANG PRABANG – KUANG SI FALLS – XAYABOURI DAM – PAK LAY – VIENTIANE
(U) Impression of the Mekong 6-Day Mekong River Cruise from Vientiane to Luang Prabang
Upstream
Destination : VIENTIANE – PAK LAY – XAYABOURI DAM – KUANG SI FALLS – LUANG PRABANG