Mekong Sun

Mekong River, Laos

Duration

6 days

Departure

specific dates

Guaranteed

shared cruise

Star Rating

WHAT TO EXPECT

The Mekong Sun offers an unparalleled journey through the untamed beauty of Laos and Northern Thailand, navigating the legendary Upper Mekong River. As the region’s only boutique river ship, it combines adventure with exceptional comfort, featuring air-conditioned cabins, gourmet dining, and premium service. Travelers can immerse themselves in the region’s stunning landscapes, rich cultures, and vibrant local life, all while enjoying a peaceful and intimate setting. The Mekong Sun provides a unique opportunity to explore one of the world’s most remote and adventurous rivers in style, making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience for discerning explorers seeking both luxury and authenticity.

Mekong Sun

6 Days / 5 Night - Vientiane to Luang Prabang

  • Day 1: Vientiane – Embarkation (D)

    In the afternoon, you will embark on the Mekong Sun or Mekong Pearl, a comfortable Laotian cruise ship. These unique vessels are the first German-Laotian owned river ships with cabins on the upper Mekong. Settle into your accommodating cabin and unpack for a six-day cruise. (Check-in is at 2 pm). In the afternoon you will participate in a guided city tour including all highlights of the Laotian capital: amongst others the That Luang Stupa and the Victory gate. Back on board your river vessel, enjoy the spacious decks, lounge on board and attend your welcome reception and dinner this evening. A selection of Asian and European food will be provided throughout the cruise.
    Overnight on board.

  • Day 2: Wild Nature along the Mighty Mekong (B/L/D)

    Today your Mekong river cruise experience starts. During the day you will continuously cruise up-river, where you will discover some of the most remarkable, most impressive landscapes. In the afternoon enjoy the beautiful views and watch nature’s wonders along the shores before you stop at a remote place to stay for the night.
    Overnight on board.

  • Day 3: Fascinating rapids & the district town Salakham (B/L/D)

    Further north you will discover some of the most remarkable, most impressive landscapes of this stilluntamed river. The landscape becomes more and more spectacular: hills covered with tropical vegetation, awe-inspiring rock formations along the river banks, and a fascinating array of fast currents and www.cruisemekong.com 2 slower river parts. During the day you will visit the dreamy district town Salakham. The power of the mighty Mekong will give your cruise the feeling of a real expedition. Enjoy the beautiful views and watch nature’s wonders along the riverbanks before you head north again and stop for the night.
    Overnight on board.

  • Day 4: The farming village Ban Don Saingam (B/L/D)

    Upstream you will stop at the small farming village Ban Don Saingam, where you can participate in a 30 minutes trekking to explore a hidden cave visited exclusively by Mekong River Cruises guests. The purely natural landscape is only broken by the seldom sights of small villages and local herds of cattle. This evening we enjoy our famous Mekong River Cruises BBQ dinner in a beautiful riverside location.
    Overnight on board.

  • Day 5: Xayabouri Dam (B/L/D)

    During and after breakfast on board, enjoy the beautiful view and possibly watch local fishermen along the shore. Don’t miss passing the log of the Xayabouri dam, the biggest hydropower facility in the whole of Laos. In the afternoon you will meet the inhabitants of a small hill tribe village which is regularly visited by our guests and supported by donations. This last evening on board will be celebrated with a farewell dinner.
    Overnight on board.

  • Day 6: Kuang Si waterfall - Luang Prabang (B/L)

    During the morning a guided shore excursion will take you to the Kuang Si-waterfalls, some of the most attractive waterfalls in Laos. This afternoon you will reach Luang Prabang, the former royal capital of Laos, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In Luang Prabang you will say goodbye to your Lao crew. Check out and disembarkation. This is the end of the trip.

Additional Sailing Options

  • Seasonal Variations and Flexible Itineraries

    This cruise offers diverse alternatives tailored to the season, with distinct upstream and downstream options. The itinerary described above serves as a sample of the standard journey, highlighting the experiences the cruise has to offer. Seasonal conditions and local events may influence the exact route and activities, ensuring each voyage is unique and adapted to provide the best possible adventure.

  • Every river cruise on the upper Mekong is a pioneering experience and is subject to constantly changing river conditions, including floodwaters, low water levels, and morning fog. Therefore, please understand that we must reserve the right to alter the itinerary of this tour because of the logistical complexities involved. Small deviations in the tour program are sometimes necessary, depending on weather and river conditions. For safety reasons arising from the existing navigating conditions, these programs may be amended without previous notice

Cruise Images

Cabins

Restaurant and Facilities

Cruise Activities

Inclusions

  • Insider Experiences

    Guided city tour of Vientiane – Explore the Laotian capital's iconic landmarks, including the That Luang Stupa and the Victory Gate.
    Trekking to hidden caves in Ban Don Saingam – Enjoy an exclusive trek to a secluded cave rarely visited by outsiders.
    Visit a remote hill tribe village – Engage with a local hill tribe, learning about their traditions and customs while supporting their community.
    Mekong BBQ dinner by the riverside – Savor a traditional Laotian BBQ dinner in a scenic, serene riverside setting.

  • Accommodation

    Enjoy a five-night stay on board the cruise, with a range of cabin categories to suit different preferences.



  • Meals

    Daily breakfast
    5 local lunches
    5 local dinners

  • Transport

    Transportation is seamlessly included, with transfers provided from your hotel in Vientiane to the embarkation point on the Mekong Sun on Day 1, and from the disembarkation point in Luang Prabang to your hotel on Day 6, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey.

  • Touring

    English speaking tour guide
    All entrance fees
    All mentioned excursions

  • Pre-and Post Tours

    Enhance your cruise experience with a wide range of pre- and post-tour options designed to make your vacation even more unforgettable. Whether you're looking for additional tours, hotel accommodations for extra nights, or extended explorations, there are plenty of flexible combinations available.

    From guided sightseeing in nearby cities to immersive cultural experiences, these options allow you to tailor your journey to your interests. You can opt for leisurely stays or in-depth tours, ensuring that your trip is as relaxed or adventurous as you wish. Let us help you create the perfect itinerary with these exciting add-ons. Please contact us for more details and to customize your dream cruise experience.

  • Disclaimer

    Many cruise companies might operate various types of vessels. The itinerary and images provided represent the general category and classification of the cruise but do not guarantee a specific vessel. Variations may occur, and the exact vessel name will be confirmed upon booking for your final approval.

    Each vessel typically offers a range of cabin categories. The images shown are general representations of the available cabins and do not guarantee the specific cabin you will receive. Options usually range from standard to suite cabins. Please consult with your advisor to discuss available options and associated costs.

    All cruise itineraries are designed around a standard route. However, depending on the season, itineraries may be adjusted or, in some cases, may not operate. For the most up-to-date information and personalized assistance, please consult with our expert travel advisors.

Booking request

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The Mekong Sun offers an unparalleled journey through the untamed beauty of Laos and Northern Thailand, navigating the legendary Upper Mekong River. As the region’s only boutique river ship, it combines adventure with exceptional comfort, featuring air-conditioned cabins, gourmet dining, and premium service. Travelers can immerse themselves in the region’s stunning landscapes, rich cultures, and vibrant local life, all while enjoying a peaceful and intimate setting. The Mekong Sun provides a unique opportunity to explore one of the world’s most remote and adventurous rivers in style, making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience for discerning explorers seeking both luxury and authenticity.
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