10 day Luxury Upper Mekong Journey through Laos

Awaken early to witness your first sunrise over the Mekong River in Laos. Early risers are invited to join our daily morning exercise on the terrace deck, where you can participate in Tai Chi or Yoga. There's no better setting for a refreshing start to the day than amidst the breathtaking river scenery. This invigorating open-air activity is available each morning around sunrise.

After a few hours, we will make a stop at Phalat village, a quaint settlement overlooking the Mekong River and Thailand. We will use local transportation, “Tok Tok,” to visit a nearby chopstick factory. Ever wondered how chopsticks achieve their perfect roundness and uniform size? This visit offers a fascinating insight into the manufacturing process and a behind-the-scenes look at a local factory.

As the ship continues along the Thai-Lao border, you'll be greeted by a large Buddha statue on the opposite shore. Following lunch onboard, we navigate through a serene section of the Mekong with shallow waters and numerous small sandy islands, perfect for exploring by kayak on your own during this active river outing.

In the evening, we will anchor on a sandbank in the middle of Laos, setting the stage for a unique culinary experience. Step off the ship onto a secluded island surrounded by the river, and enjoy an aperitif as the sun sets. Our team will prepare an unforgettable long-table dinner, festively arranged mid-river in this tranquil setting. Afterward, you can continue to enjoy the outdoors with an open-air cinema on the terrace deck, where we will screen a popular classic movie.

The morning is yours to enjoy as the ship slowly progresses upstream, allowing ample opportunity to observe both river and riverside life. We will soon pass by Pak Lay on the west bank. Located about 10-15 kilometers inland from Pak Lay is the Nam Phouy National Biodiversity Conservation Area, which hosts the largest population of wild elephants in Laos. Despite its modest size, Pak Lay is the last major town with access to a national road along the Mekong River until we reach Luang Prabang in two days, covering nearly 200 kilometers.

In the afternoon, we will visit Don Saynhan village, where a brief local “Tuk Tuk” ride will take us to the intriguing Khao Cave. This cave, home to a large bat colony for generations, provides the village with a potent natural fertilizer. Inside, you can explore the impressive stalagmites and stalactites.

Upon returning to the ship, we will continue our journey until we find a serene spot to anchor for the night. Weather permitting, we will set up an al-fresco dinner on the terrace to fully embrace the Laotian ambiance. If conditions are not favorable, dinner will be served in our onboard restaurant.

The day begins with an option for sunrise Tai Chi or Yoga on deck, or you can simply enjoy a few extra moments of rest in your cabin as the sun gently starts to rise. The Anouvong continues its journey north towards Laos’ renowned hydroelectric power plant. This morning, we invite you to participate in an engaging lecture about the significance of energy in Laos’ economy and its ambition to become Southeast Asia’s energy hub.

After lunch, you have the choice of two different excursions or activities:

1. Embark on a long-tail boat for an exciting adventure upstream along the pristine Nam Fuang River, surrounded by lush jungle. We’ll make stops along the way to discuss the local tribes and their jungle life.

2. Alternatively, visit the riverside village of Khok Akha, home to the “Lao Loum” people, known for rice farming, fishing, and wood selling. The elevated position of the village offers spectacular views of the winding Mekong River, perfect for memorable photographs.

In the late afternoon, we arrive at the Xayaburi Hydroelectric Dam. The ship navigates through two locks, elevating us by approximately 30 meters. We will also have a brief guided tour of this impressive structure.

Tonight, the vessel will anchor in a serene spot a few kilometers upstream from the dam.

The morning is yours to enjoy at a leisurely pace. Start your day with a relaxed breakfast while taking in the scenic views of the Mekong River. Spend some time on the terrace or in the lounge, savoring a good book and a cup of coffee.

In the early afternoon, we embark on a sightseeing excursion to visit the innovative and socially responsible Laos Buffalo Dairy Farm. Once scarce in Laos, dairy products like cheese, ice cream, and yogurt have become increasingly popular in recent years. Witness the production process and see how these products are made locally and distributed to nearby markets.

Next, we head to the stunning Kuang Si Waterfall, renowned for its cascading turquoise waters. Enjoy a leisurely hike through the surrounding natural park, and take a refreshing dip in the natural pools at the base of the waterfall.

Returning to the ship, we set sail for Luang Prabang, reaching this charming town by early evening. After dinner, you might want to explore the enchanting streets of Luang Prabang on a leisurely evening stroll.

After breakfast this morning, we set out to explore one of Southeast Asia's most enchanting cities. Our walking tour will take us through the historic heart of Luang Prabang, covering nearly flat terrain and lasting approximately 3.5 hours, including breaks for refreshments.

In honor of the 20th anniversary of Luang Prabang's UNESCO designation in 2015, a commemorative book was published highlighting the many facets of this World Heritage Site. Our guided walking tour will lead us through the old town and its peninsula, where the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers converge. We will admire the city’s unique architecture and hear fascinating stories about the buildings and landmarks we encounter. As we meander through a maze of charming streets and alleys lined with centuries-old buildings and lush mango trees, we'll pass structures that evoke a bygone era. Notably, the Lamache house, once home to noble families and later the royal family's ice cream supplier, provides a perfect setting for a “Lao Tea Break,” featuring Lao coffee or herbal tea, traditional snacks, and artisanal ice cream.

Following our exploration, we'll return to the vessel for lunch and some relaxation. In the afternoon, we will continue our journey with a visit to the former Royal Palace, now the National Museum. This museum offers a glimpse into the local art and artifacts that once belonged to the Lao royal family. After the museum visit, you'll have some free time to explore the city center or unwind at a local café, enjoying the relaxed, "sabai-sabai" atmosphere before heading back to the ship.

In the early evening, join us on the terrace deck for a sunset aperitif accompanied by a traditional local dance or music performance. Later, we will dine at one of the city's fine restaurants, offering an authentic Lao-style dining experience. After dinner, you can either explore the night market or return to the ship for the evening.

For early risers, today offers a special experience. Before the town is bathed in the soft glow of dawn, you can witness the traditional “Tak Bat” ceremony, where saffron-clad monks walk silently through the streets collecting alms. After participating in this serene ritual, take a leisurely walk through the morning market and observe the town coming to life. Return to the ship in time for breakfast and then meet Mr. Francis Engelmann, a former UNESCO heritage preservation expert. Having lived in Laos for over two decades, Mr. Engelmann, who hails from Paris, will share his extensive knowledge of Laos’ rich cultural heritage and intriguing history.

As we reach the point where the Mekong meets one of its major tributaries, adventurous guests have the option to embark on a kayak tour along the Nam Ou River. Enjoy the effortless glide of the kayak as you soak in the scenic beauty of the river.

Our next stop is the renowned Pak Ou Caves, nestled on the Mekong's rocky banks across from the Ou River's mouth. These caves contain around 4,000 Buddhist statues, ranging from small figures to those standing over 2 meters tall. We first explore the larger cave before ascending approximately 200 steps to the smaller one.

At the caves, we will also meet a local "medicine man" from a nearby village. A short trek through the jungle follows, during which our guide will provide insights into the local flora and nature. Upon reaching the village, observe traditional weaving and the local whisky-making process. (Note: The trek is about 45 minutes long and involves some uphill and downhill walking. Those preferring to avoid the hike can return to the ship.)

As we continue our journey up the river in the golden evening light, we may have time to visit another charming village along the way. This riverside community, inhabited by both Lao Loum and Lao Theun, features a Buddhist temple, though many local tribes follow animistic traditions.

Tonight’s highlight is a special BBQ dinner on a picturesque sandbank. Our chefs will prepare a feast while local villagers provide entertainment with traditional dance and music. Enjoy an unforgettable evening with new friends, embracing the unique atmosphere of dining in the heart of Laos.

As we set sail in the morning, our local expert will give an engaging lecture, providing valuable insights into the diverse cultures of the tribes residing along the upper Mekong River.

We reach a quaint, rural village inhabited by the Khmu people. This charming community includes a small primary school for the few children living here with their families. A leisurely walk through the village reveals simple bamboo stilt houses scattered across rice fields. The local residents continue to practice traditional methods, manually processing their agricultural products.

After our village visit, we return to the ship, which continues its gentle journey upstream. Following lunch, we arrive at a picturesque sandbank. Here, in the tiny village of Kok Aek, local ethnic groups including Lao, Khmu, and Hmong cultivate an array of organic vegetables, fruits, and herbs. They maintain a small organic garden near the riverside, protected by bamboo fencing. Despite occasional flooding, the fertile Mekong soil ensures a rich harvest. As we interact with the villagers showcasing their gardening skills, don't miss the opportunity to taste kai paen, a local delicacy made from dried freshwater “seaweed” topped with sesame and vegetables—a unique and delightful treat!

We will spend the night at this serene location. The village features a small temple where you can opt for a meditation session (availability limited). After a tranquil period of relaxation, dinner will be served in the elegant De-Lagree Dining Hall on the Anouvong. Post-dinner, you might enjoy some leisure time in the lounge or experience an open-air cinema on the terrace deck. Tonight’s film, "Chang," a 1927 Laotian movie about elephants and produced by the same creator as the original King Kong, was filmed in this very region. Enjoy a peaceful night’s rest on the river, far from the hustle and bustle.

Awaken early to witness the magical first light of the sun reflecting on the river. For those eager to start the day actively, join our morning exercise session on the terrace deck, featuring Tai Chi or Yoga.

After breakfast, as we journey towards Pakbeng, our local guide will present a lecture on the role of Laotian elephants, exploring their historical significance and the current challenges they face, which have pushed them to the edge of extinction. This will serve as an insightful prelude to our close encounter with these magnificent creatures tomorrow. Enjoy the remainder of the morning and your lunch as we continue our leisurely cruise.

By early afternoon, we reach the quaint town of Pakbeng, located midway between our starting point in Huay Xai and our destination of Luang Prabang. This riverside town serves as a crucial stop for locals transporting goods and travelers. On the opposite bank, we find the country’s premier elephant sanctuary, renowned for its sustainable management practices. If we arrive early enough, we might catch a glimpse of elephants roaming the shoreline and taking a bath. To deepen your understanding from the morning’s lecture, we will visit the sanctuary. Here, elephants that once worked as logging animals now live in peace and safety. Although these elephants cannot be reintroduced to the wild due to their lack of survival skills, the sanctuary is dedicated to eco-tourism and sustainability principles.

We’ll cross the river to explore Pakbeng further and drive up to a picturesque hilltop temple offering stunning views of the Mekong River’s twists and turns.

Back on the boat, we continue our cruise for a few more hours. Relax and savor the breathtaking scenery or enjoy some tranquility in our serene spa. We will anchor in a sheltered area mid-river. Enjoy an aperitif on the open deck before our final dinner aboard. Our culinary team will treat you to a gala farewell dinner in an al-fresco setting on the terrace deck. Spend a memorable evening with new friends, immersing yourself in the unique atmosphere of the river and the soothing sounds of nature.

Savor your final sunrise aboard with another morning exercise session. Take your time to enjoy a leisurely brunch, which we can serve on the terrace deck, as we continue our journey toward the Thai-Lao border.

Before lunch, the ship will navigate past the confluence with the Nam Tha River, a significant tributary of the Mekong. The Nam Tha, known as the "Green River," originates near the Chinese border, approximately 325 km to the northeast, and merges with the Mekong at this junction.

Relax and make the most of these final tranquil sailing hours as the river scenery gradually opens up. While the river widens in this region, our captain must remain vigilant for rocks, stones, and sandbanks to ensure a safe passage, providing an engaging view from the open deck. As we continue, the landscape and river will shift, becoming more mountainous and narrower.

We also offer a Lao cooking class where you can learn to prepare some delicious and simple local snacks and dishes. The remaining cruising time, until we arrive in Huay Xai around 15:00, is yours to enjoy as you please.

Upon arrival and after checking out, we will assist with your luggage and transfer you to the Lao-Thai border. We’ll help you with the border crossing and bid you farewell on the Thai side in front of the immigration building.

This concludes our services.