Experience overview
Experience the quiet charm of northern Thailand and then cross into Laos to explore the sleepy villages and historic towns as a passenger aboard two separate Mekong River cruises. Fly first from Bangkok to Chiang Rai, where you will get acquainted with the famous Golden Triangle area. Visit the Doi Tung Hilltribe Project, where tribal groups maintain their cultural identity under the patronage of the Thai Royal Family. Then, cross into Laos and board the Pak Ou for an unforgettable two nights sailing down the Mekong, making stops in several tribal villages along the way. Upon your arrival in Luang Prabang, settle into your hotel for a four-night stay, long enough to truly become familiar with this cherished UNESCO World Heritage Site. Among the highlights during your stay are a day trip to Khouangsi Falls, an opportunity to see monks on their morning meal procession, and a thorough tour of this beautiful town. Fly next to Vientiane and tour the National Museum, Central Market, and most famous temple (Wat Sisaket) of the capital city. Fly from Vientiane to Pakse, your point of embarkation on the elegant Vat Phou Cruise. This French-managed vessel continues your journey down the Mekong, stopping at the ruins of Wat Phu, tribal villages, and other points of interest. When the cruise concludes, drive back to Pakse and then return overland into Thailand to catch your onward flight at the Ubon Airport.
Highlights
- Explore Northern Thailand and Laos by River: Experience the quiet charm of northern Thailand and Laos on two separate Mekong River cruises.
- Discover Chiang Rai and Golden Triangle: Fly from Bangkok to Chiang Rai. Visit the Doi Tung Hilltribe Project in the famous Golden Triangle area.
- Cruise Down the Mekong: Cross into Laos and board the Pak Ou cruise for two nights. Sail down the Mekong, stopping at tribal villages along the way.
- Explore Luang Prabang: Arrive in Luang Prabang for a four-night stay. Visit Khouangsi Falls, see monks on their morning procession, and tour the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Visit Vientiane: Fly to Vientiane and tour the National Museum, Central Market, and famous Wat Sisaket temple.
- Embark on Vat Phou Cruise: Fly to Pakse and embark on the elegant Vat Phou Cruise. Explore the ruins of Wat Phu and tribal villages along the Mekong.
- Return to Thailand: Conclude the cruise in Pakse, then return to Thailand by land to catch your onward flight from Ubon Airport.
Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket
Culinary highlights
Beach holidays
Exotic islands
Sample Itinerary
Day 1: Fly from Bangkok to Chiang Rai, Golden Triangle tour;
Day 2: Cross into Laos, board Luangsay Cruise, touring;
Day 3: Cruise to Luang Prabang, touring en route;
Day 4: Private tour of Luang Prabang;
Day 5: Morning meal procession, afternoon tour of Khouangsi Falls and Akha hilltribe;
Day 6: At leisure;
Day 7: Fly to Vientiane, introductory city tour;
Day 8: Fly to Pakse, introductory touring;
Day 9: Board Vat Phou Cruise;
Day 10: Vat Phou Cruise, touring en route;
Day 11: Disembark cruise, tour area, drive to Pakse, board departure flight