Top Mekong Laos River Cruises 2026/2027

The dry season (November - January) is the most comfortable time for a Laos cruise, with cooler temperatures and stable river conditions. The wet season (May - October) means lush scenery but higher rainfall and possible itinerary changes.

There are 4 main river cruise routes within Laos and from/to Thailand. You can opt for a suitable cruise length and start/end point as follows:

• 2 - 4 days: Luang Prabang - Huay Xai 
• 6 days: Luang Prabang - Vientiane 
• 8 days: Huay Xai - Vientiane
• 10 - 11 days: Vientiane - Chiang Khong/ Golden Triangle 

Yes, Australian citizens require a visa upon arrival in Laos. You can get an eVisa online (cost about 75 AUD/pax) at laoevisa.gov.la/index or upon arrival at the airport (cost about 60 AUD/pax). Please prepare cash, a valid passport (for more than 6 months), and card photos in advance.

For a longer cruise that crosses the border between Laos & Thailand, the cruise will help with the Visa-on-arrival application (not included in the price).

Beyond highlights like Pak Ou Caves or Luang Prabang’s temples, many Mekong cruises in Laos include small village visits where you can observe daily life, such as weaving, rice farming, or local craft-making. These activities connect you with the community in a meaningful way. Unlike staged shows, these activities are designed to be low-impact and respectful, giving travelers genuine insight into Lao culture while also supporting local livelihoods.

The Laos Mekong River trip average price ranges from 351 to 7,386 AUD per person, depending on the cruise length and service provided:

• 2 - 6 days: from 351 to 2,983 AUD/pax
• 8 - 11 days: from 5,028 to 7,386 AUD/pax

The cost usually includes accommodation, shore excursions, entrance fees, hotel transfers, welcome drinks, and some onboard facilities.

Depending on different cruise types, budget ranges, and reviews from Aussie tourists, we offer the best choices for Mekong Laos cruises as follows:

• Shompoo Cruise Upstream 2 days: Luang Prabang - Huay Xai: from 351 AUD/pax
• Mekong Sun Cruise 6 days: Highlights of Northern Laos: from 403 AUD/pax
• Mekong Pearl Downstream 6 days: Golden Triangle - Luang Prabang: from 2,746 AUD/pax
• Heritage Line Anouvong Upstream 4 days: Luang Prabang - Huay Xai: from 2,983/pax