Mekong Pearl Cruise Downstream 6 days: Golden Triangle - Luang Prabang

Morning

08:00-09:00: You will be picked up from Chiang Rai Airport or at your hotel to transfer to the Golden Triangle Area.

After arriving at the Golden Triangle, you will join a fascinating sightseeing tour at the Golden Buddha of Sop Ruak and the Hall of Opium. This intriguing museum offers an in-depth look into the history and politics of the opium trade as well as the effects of opium usage on one's health.

Afternoon

Then, you will be welcomed onboard warmly by the Mekong Pearl Cruise Team.

Let's settle in your cozy cabin and immerse yourselves in the tranquil scenery of the Mekong River while the ship begins your fantastic 6-day downstream journey on the Mekong River.

Evening

After enjoying a welcome dinner onboard, you can relax on the spacious deck to take a deep breath in the middle of the majestic Mekong River or sip a cocktail in the onboard lounge.

Morning & Afternoon

This morning is the departure to the Laotian-Thai Border. You'll arrive at Huay Xay Town, where you will really enter the People’s Democratic Republic of Laos.

Northern Laos' breathtaking landscapes, including lush greenery, mist-covered mountains, and peaceful riverside villages, will captivate you. We travel to Pak Tha, a significant Mekong estuary, where we will anchor for the night amidst the tranquility of this remarkable region.

Evening

Have dinner and overnight onboard while the ship moors at a sand or riverbank. 

Morning

After breakfast, embark on a journey to one of the local hill tribe villages in the Pak Tha area, where you will have the opportunity to experience their distinct way of life.

When you return to the vessel, you will be greeted with refreshing drinks on the upper deck, providing an ideal opportunity to unwind and enjoy the peaceful river atmosphere before lunch is served.

Afternoon

As we continue downstream, we pass through remote and untouched Laotian regions that can only be reached by water.

The Mekong River reveals some of its most beautiful landscapes here: lush hills covered in tropical vegetation, dramatic rock formations, and a fascinating mix of fast currents and calm waters.

Evening

Whether you choose to relax on deck, retreat to the comfort of your cabin, or unwind in the lounge, you will be surrounded by the beauty and tranquillity of these breathtaking surroundings.

Morning & Afternoon

After a quiet morning, we arrive at a charming riverside village around midday. We visit the legendary Pak Ou Caves, which house thousands of small Buddha statues lovingly placed by pilgrims over the centuries.

From this sacred site, you can embark on a jungle trek through lush greenery to the nearby village of Ban Muang Keo. For a more leisurely pace, a short boat ride will take you to the village.

Miss Somechan Khonpachith, who has dedicated her life to mastering this craft, will show you how to distill Lao-Lao, Laos' traditional rice whiskey. She'll not only reveal the secrets of this time-honored technique, but also invite you to a tasting.

Evening

As the day comes to a close, our ship remains anchored, surrounded by majestic limestone mountains, creating a picturesque backdrop for your evening.

Morning & Afternoon

Today, you'll visit Luang Prabang, the former royal capital of Laos and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Your adventure begins with a guided walk through the city, which will lead you to the famous Wat Xieng Thong, a stunning example of Laotian architecture and one of the city's most iconic landmarks.

As evening falls, you'll ascend Mount PhouSi, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Mekong and Khan rivers, the ideal way to end the day.

Following that, you can take a leisurely stroll along the peaceful Mekong promenade or immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the colorful Hmong Night Market.

Evening

Back on board, a special farewell dinner will mark the end of your cruise. This is an opportunity to bid farewell to the Laotian crew, cruise director, and captain, signaling the end of an unforgettable journey.

Morning

In the early morning, you can visit or attend the Tak Bat, a traditional almsgiving ceremony in Luang Prabang's streets, during which dozens of orange-robed monks and novices walk through the streets and alleys of the old town.

Your guide will then take you through the bustling local morning market, which is filled with the fragrant aromas of exotic spices, locally grown teas, and freshly brewed Laotian coffee.

After breakfast, you will check out and disembark, bringing with you unforgettable memories of your journey along the Mighty Mekong. Our shared adventure ends with a transfer to the airport or a city hotel in Luang Prabang.