Destination Laos

River Cruising in Laos

The mighty Mekong River is the longest river in Southeast Asia and is often referred to as the lifeblood of this region, with tens of millions of people said to depend on the river for their livelihood. In Laos the Mekong is known as the Nam Khong and runs the length of this land locked country. With less developed infrastructure and over 70% of the land area of Laos being mountainous and forested, the majority of Laos’ population is settled along the fertile river valleys, and local river transport has traditionally been an important means of travel for local people and supplies. As Laos opens its doors to foreign tourists and its reputation as one of Asia’s last unspoilt wilderness areas grows, river transport is becoming an increasingly desired way of travel for the discerning visitor wishing to truly experience this remarkable land.

For the more adventurous traveler, river travel is possible along many of Laos lesser waterways, including the Nam Khan and the Nam Ou in Northern Laos, in basic local style river boats. For those wishing to enjoy river cruising in more comfort and style there are now two comfortable options on the Mekong River which are fast gaining a reputation as ‘must-do’ experiences when visiting Southeast Asia.

Northern Laos – The Luang Say Cruise

Laos is perfectly situated to be combined with a visit to Northern Thailand, and the 2 day/1 night Luang Say Cruise down the mythical Mekong River is a relaxing, comfortable and increasingly popular way to link these two destinations. This is a journey through a remote, forested, mountainous region where small ethnic minority villages dot the riverbanks, and slow boat travel is the ideal way to appreciate the beauty of the landscape and timelessness of this land. This unforgettable journey commences near the Golden Triangle at the Laos border town of Huay Xai, situated across the Mekong from the Thai town of Chiang Khong, and finishes on arrival in Luang Prabang. The Luang Say is a comfortable purpose built river barge, and stops are made along the way to visit riverside hill-tribe villages and the sacred Tham Ting Caves at Pak Ou. Lunches are served on board, and dinner and overnight is at the Luang Say Lodge, built of wood in traditional Lao style on the banks of the Mekong at the small riverside town of Pak Beng.

Southern Laos – The Vat Phou Cruise

Commencing in Pakse this 3 day/2 night cruise aboard the Vat Phou is a leisurely way to discover the treasures of Southern Laos. Memorable days are spent cruising the Mekong and exploring small riverside villages, ancient temple ruins and the Mekong Islands, with nights spent on board the boat. Highlights of this memorable voyage include the UNESCO World Heritage site of Wat Phou Champassak - a pre-Angkorian Khmer temple ruin, Southeast Asia’s largest waterfalls at Pha Pheng, and cruising through the famous Si Phan Don, or 4,000 islands area of the Mekong near the Cambodian border. The Vat Phou is a 34 meter steel hulled craft which has been converted into a floating boutique hotel with 12 double berth cabins with hot water showers and western amenities.

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Tour products may change without notice from time to time so for further information on sightseeing and overland tour options in Laos, please contact Destination Asia’s Laos office.