Mekong Cruise in Northern Laos
The Mekong River is a beautiful and iconic waterway that flows through several countries in Southeast Asia, including Laos. A cruise along the Mekong in Northern Laos can offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, as well as opportunities to explore local villages and experience the unique culture of the region.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing journey or an adventure-filled experience, a Mekong Cruise in Northern Laos is sure to be a memorable one. If you have any specific questions or need more information, feel free to ask our Trip design Expert at: sales@wander-laos.com
You can request for a 1 day cruise that combines the visit to Oudomxay and other nearby cities in the north-east part of Laos, or travel to the “off the beaten track” Sayaboury – The least tourist destination. Below is the common classic 2 days cruise that most tourists do.
Mekong River Cruise Day 1 – Houayxay to Pakbeng
The first leg of our Mekong River cruise was from Houayxay to Pakbeng (~6 hours). Though you will spend most of the day on the boat, however the cruise will stop at a local village after lunch on board.
How to get pickup by your guide and driver.
We offer pick-up, the two options you can choose from are:
1) Meet a guide on the Laos side of the border at 8:00 am then, transfer to the boat pier at the start of your journey.
2) Be picked up from a hotel in Houayxay between 8:00 am – 9:00 am and go directly to the boat pier.
Stop at Khmu Village
A couple hours after lunch (~2:30 pm), we arrived at the first stop on our trip – a Khmu village along the Mekong River.
Visiting the Village with your local guide.
This village is only accessible by boat, it was still very traditional and rustic – no electricity or running water.
To get to the village from the river, you will trek up a steep, dusty hill. We’d recommend sneakers for a visit like this as flip flops might be too slippery. Especially on the way down! You will walk around the village, stopping to see the local one-room kid’s school.
You will arrive in Pakbeng at the Sunset.
Mekong River Cruise Day 2 – Pakbeng to Luang Prabang
The second leg of our Mekong River cruise will take you from Pakbeng to Luang Prabang (~7 hours) like first leg you will spend a long morning on the boat, a couple stops – Pak Ou Cave and Whisky Village in the afternoon.
Early Rising in Pakbeng
Despite Pakbeng is a small town with its small farmer market about 15 minutes from your hotel, your guide can take you there. You will stroll down the market with your guide explaining of the fresh and green herbal ingredients that locals use for their cooking.
After the visit, head back to your hotel for a delicious breakfast before boarding the boat to Luang Prabang.
Departure from Pakbeng
Since your hotel is just above the pier, it only takes a few minutes to walk down to the boat or the hotel to provide transfer by Tuktuk to the boat per.
Because the second day’s stops are quite close to Luang Prabang, you will spend most of your time on the boat before the stops. This is a great time to read, chat or play games with your traveling companions, and admire the scenery.
Travel in Laos during the winter can be cold in the morning! however, the boat crews normally provide blankets on the boat, your can grab a hot cup of coffee, and / or tea during the journey, Lunch will be served on board.
Stop at Pak Ou Cave
The first stop of the day at Pak Ou Cave around 1:30 pm. Your will spend approx ~45 minutes exploring the upper and lower caves.
Stop at Whisky Village “Ban Xanghai”
Next you will stop at the Lao Lao Whisky Village, which is approximately 20 minutes from the Pak Ou Cave.
After walking around the village, you can taste some of the laolao – a Lao rice whisky. Behind the tasting table, you can see where they make it. Beware of that clear one that is 50-55% – it burns!
You’ll also find plenty of handicrafts in this village like scarves and material to make the Lao skirt. The patterns are so beautiful.
Arriving Luang Prabang!
After our final stop, you will pursue your river cruise approx ~45 minutes to reach Luang Prabang. After you arrived in Luang Prabang, say good-bye to the wonderful boat crews. Your driver will meet and transfer you to your accommodation in Luang Prabang.
