Heritage Line Anouvong Cruise Upstream 10 days: Vientiane - Huay Xai

Morning

Heritage Line warmly welcomes our esteemed guests by arranging individual pickups from their hotels. A comfortable minivan transfer to the moored vessel located at Pak Lay. 

Upon arrival, you will step onto our ship. Once all preparations are complete, the captain sets the course for our captivating voyage along the Upper Mekong.

Afternoon

After enjoying a delicious lunch, take the opportunity to explore the ship and be captivated by the breathtaking landscape as we gracefully navigate the river's course. 

Our knowledgeable guide presents a fascinating lecture on the history of Lao royalty, with a special emphasis on King Anouvong, the distinguished namesake of our vessel.

As the sun begins to set, join us on the terrace deck for a delightful cocktail reception, marking the start of an unforgettable exploration of the Laotian Mekong.

Evening

Following a delightful dinner, our lounge transforms into a cozy cinema, where we feature a classic movie as evening entertainment - a perfect way to unwind and relax before retiring to your comfortable night.

Morning

Embarking on the first morning of your Upper Mekong adventure, our expedition leads us to the captivating village of Pha Liep. This hidden treasure is encompassed by majestic limestone mountains, creating a stunning backdrop that sets the stage for an utterly captivating experience.

In this particular area, the Lao Loum community primarily relies on agriculture. Let's witness the exquisite craftsmanship involved in the production of traditional longtail boats. 

Venture into a more enjoyable endeavor, a local whiskey distillery, which holds a significant place in the nation's culture, with every Laotian household having a bottle at home. 

Afternoon

Afterward, we continue our journey and arrive at Don Saynhan. Once on land, we will explore the surrounding area by taking a local "tuk-tuk" to venture inland and visit the remarkable Khao Cave.

Traveling through lush, jungle-like surroundings, this cave serves as the longstanding home to a population of bats and also acts as a vital source of fertilizer for the village. Step inside and witness the awe-inspiring stalagmites and stalactites that adorn the cave.

Evening

The ship will remain moored at this location overnight, providing a serene setting. Join us on the deck for some delightful prelude snacks at the bar, while our guide offers insights and outlook for the next day. 

Take pleasure in the evening ambiance or choose to unwind with a post-dinner reflexology session, ensuring a peaceful and restful slumber.

Morning

Commence your day by embracing a rejuvenating yoga session, setting the stage for a tranquil and leisurely morning.

We disembark for another excursion at Pak Yan, a charming village where Hmong, Lao, and Khmu people live together, reflecting a rich blend of cultures and traditions. Many Hmong families resettled here after the 1993 repatriation program, returning from Thailand to rebuild their lives in this close-knit community.

The elevated vantage point of the village offers splendid views of the meandering Mekong, providing ample opportunities to capture superb photos.

Afternoon

Returning to the vessel, as we cruise northbound towards the nation's famous first dam and hydroelectric power plant later in the day, our knowledgeable guide will share fascinating insights into the pivotal role of energy production in Laos' economy.

Discover its potential to become the 'battery' of Southeast Asia during an engaging evening discussion. The following morning, the journey will bring you up close to this significant structure as we pass through the huge water gate.

Evening

We take our mooring position near the dam to be ready for the next days’s early passage. After dinner, join us in the lounge for a cosy screening of "The Rocket", a 90-minute Lao film about a boy seeking redemption in a land scarred by war.

Morning

As the morning unfolds, our journey takes us past the Xayaburi Dam, with a bit of sailing upstream before we approach the lock.

During this time, guests are invited to a brief guided visit to the wheelhouse. Here, the captain unveils the intricacies of his instruments, offering insights into the challenges of navigating this dynamic river and piloting through the water gate.

Leaving the gate behind, this sailing day is dedicated to pampering and relaxation for mind and body. Become one with the therapeutic Mekong for a bit. The morning program offers a culinary indulgence: you’re invited to join a cooking class where you’ll learn to make a Lao-Thai dish simple enough to recreate at home later. 

The morning program extends to the deck or lounge, presenting guests with a comprehensive introduction to Laotian and Asian culinary delights. Discover exotic fruits, unique vegetables, special herbs, and distinctive spices that grace the kitchens of Laos and Asia.

Guests are encouraged to indulge their taste buds with likely unfamiliar or unseen food. At the same time, the bar opens its doors, enticing guests with an assortment of special fruit smoothies, allowing them to savour some of the locally popular, yet undiscovered, concoctions.

Afternoon & Evening

After a delightful lunch and maybe a soothing siesta in your stateroom, we take a stroll through the small village of Ban Hatsok, where our guide highlights seasonal fruits, vegetables, and local crops such as corn and tapioca.

Climbing the steps to a serene pagoda, we have the chance to engage with a monk for a deeper glimpse into the spiritual life of the community.

There remains plenty of time to continue the spoiling in the afternoon, for those seeking relaxation, a spa treatment beckons, offering a serene retreat for both the soul and body - a flawless choice for a leisurely finale of the pampering day.

Morning

Commence a delightful morning by engaging in a yoga session and savoring freshly brewed coffee or tea in the bar lounge or on the open deck, the perfect way to start your day. 

Indulge in a satisfying breakfast to recharge your energy for the exciting morning excursion that awaits.

We will visit the innovative and socially responsible Laos Buffalo Dairy Farm. Here, you can witness how Laos has transformed from a lack of dairy products in the past to becoming a producer of locally made cheeses, ice cream, and yogurt that are distributed to markets.

Our next destination today is the captivating Kuang Si waterfalls, located in a scenic natural park. These waterfalls offer a mesmerizing sight, with multiple cascades that differ from the conventional image of waterfalls, adding to their allure. The turquoise and shallow pools formed at the top of the falls invite you to take a refreshing dip. 

Upon returning to the ship, we will enjoy a late lunch as we continue sailing towards Luang Prabang, a town renowned as one of Southeast Asia's most enchanting destinations. 

Afternoon

Stroll through downtown Luang Prabang, capturing the magical hues of the sunset. For a panoramic view of the city and the approaching dusk, climb up Mount Phousi. Return to the ship's restaurant for dinner. 

If you wish to further explore downtown Luang Prabang, you can venture out again after dinner to immerse yourself in the town's serene atmosphere.

Morning

Start your day with the beauty of a sunrise, accompanied by freshly brewed coffee and a selection of teas in the bar lounge. Rejuvenate your mind and body with our daily Yoga class on the terrace deck, nestled at the footsteps of one of Laos' most iconic temples.

After breakfast, embark on an enchanting walking tour through Luang Prabang's UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the old town and its scenic peninsula, where the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers converge.

Then, marvel at Luang Prabang's distinctive architecture, accompanied by fascinating tales of the houses and landmarks. Walk leisurely along small roads adorned with antique structures and majestic mango trees.

Afternoon & Evening

Return to the ship for lunch and refreshment. The afternoon explores Luang Prabang's cultural heritage, visiting the former Royal Palace transformed into the National Museum with various intriguing artifacts, documents, etc. Admire local art and historical treasures once owned by the Lao royal family.

After the museum, explore the city center at your own pace or relax in one of the street cafés.

As evening approaches, a thoughtfully curated dining experience awaits - An invitation to embrace Luang Prabang’s serene tempo, wherever the night may lead.

Afterward, you may continue exploring the town, including a visit to the vibrant Night Market.

Morning

Experience the spiritual Buddhist tradition of the morning alms round, known as "Tak Bat" in Lao, before the sun fully rises. Wake up before dawn to witness the serene procession of hundreds of saffron-robed monks, an integral part of Lao culture. 

After bidding farewell to Luang Prabang, our journey continues upstream on the Mekong River towards the renowned Pak Ou Caves. During this time, our expert guide will deliver a captivating lecture on the diverse ethnic groups that inhabit the Mekong River region in Laos. 

Upon arrival at the Pak Ou Caves, you will discover the lower cave, which is the most impressive and easily accessible. 

After we visit the caves, Heritage Line offers two optional choices to enhance your excursion: an adventurous kayak tour along the serene Nam Ou River or a visit to the nearby village of Ban Muang Keo, known for its traditional silk weaving. 

Afternoon

We arrive at our overnight mooring and explore a picturesque village inhabited by Khmu people. Simplicity defines this locale, with bamboo huts elevated on stilts amidst vast rice fields.

In this serene setting, we can mingle and meet with different generations – old and young – in the village, both deeply rooted in the land, sustaining their livelihood through manual agriculture.

Let's peel back the layers of their daily existence, observe their way of life, and engage in insightful conversations to garner a profound understanding of their unique experiences.

Evening

The evening commences with a welcome cocktail on the sandbank, followed by a barbecue dinner set amidst the breathtaking natural beauty of the surroundings. Welcome to a memorable exploration of Laotian culture along the Mekong River.

Morning

For those who rise early, our daily yoga class on the terrace deck provides a refreshing start to the day, surrounded by the breathtaking backdrop of the Mekong River.

During the morning sail, you may opt to join a presentation on “Laos’s Fabrics and Textiles,” exploring the country’s intricate weaving traditions and the cultural stories behind them, or simply unwind on board as the scenery drifts by.

Later, today’s morning sojourn leads us to two traditional adjacent villages, where Lao Loum and Khmu communities have lived side by side for generations, each preserving their own traditions in quiet harmony. Most villagers are farmers, cultivating seasonal crops and tending small gardens, while in Ban Baw, a handful of women keep alive the intricate art of cotton and silk weaving.

During our visit, you can witness a demonstration of this enduring craft, observing weavers as they work on traditional handlooms using labor-intensive methods that have remained unchanged through the ages. The village also has a small temple tending to the community’s spiritual life, where those who wish can join the resident monks for a short private meditation session.

Afternoon

The sailing time into the mid-afternoon offers a breathtaking riverine cinema. We arrive at another village, which has a very interesting character to it. Here, three distinct ethnic groups: Hmong, Lao Loum, and Khamu, live together.

Each possesses its unique history, traditions, ways of life, family dynamics, and housing styles. Walk to a family home where representatives from each of these ethnic groups will show and explain to us their still-kept unique differences and characteristics in day-to-day life. 

Evening

Back on board, as the afternoon transitions to evening, gather at the bar to enjoy snacks while taking in an enriching experience as a traditional dance performance takes place on the sun deck.

Afterwards, we will share a preview of the upcoming day’s program before dinner.

Morning

Awaken with the rising sun and have the option to join an invigorating yoga class. 

Our voyage brings us in the morning to the serene town of Pakbeng. Along the riverside opposite the town and nestled in the jungle lies Laos’ most sustainable elephant sanctuary. Here, in an almost pristine natural setting, we have the privilege of encountering these majestic creatures.

Born in Laos and once employed as logging elephants, they now find sanctuary in a peaceful and natural environment, their ability to survive in the wild having been curtailed in captivity. The sanctuary, a symbol of ecotourism and sustainability, reflects a deep commitment to these principles.

Let's witness these gentle giants in the rainforest and learning about their unique stories, which makes for an unforgettable experience.

Afternoon & Evening

Our journey continues, gliding along the Mekong's gentle currents to our final overnight mooring spot. Feel free to take this time to unwind and enjoy the glorious riverview.

Subsequently, a farewell dinner is served on the terrace deck, marking the conclusion of this extraordinary voyage.

Morning

Today offers a more relaxed pace, allowing you to savor the memories created during our journey. 

Breakfast is served while we sail into the heart of the Golden Triangle. The morning is yours to relax or participate in our captivating presentation, unraveling the intricate history of the complexities of colonialism.

Pass the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Tha Rivers, a significant tributary known as the "Green River." Our skilled captain will expertly navigate through rocks, rapids, and sandbanks, providing a fascinating observation from the terrace deck.

Relax and enjoy the tranquil hours of our voyage's conclusion, with lunch being served until approximately an hour before arrival. You can enjoy it in the restaurant, lounge, or on the terrace deck.

Afternoon

In the mid-afternoon, as we dock at Huay Xai pier, we will ensure a smooth transfer to the Lao-Thai border, bidding you farewell in front of the Lao immigration office. We extend our best wishes for a pleasant onward journey.

Note: Please note that depending on the water level, the ship may not be able to sail all the way to Huay Xai, and disembarkation will take place at PAK THA instead. In such a case, Heritage Line will organize a land transfer to Huay Xai, which will take approximately 2.5 hours.