Mekong Star Cruise Upstream 11 days: Vientiane - Chiang Rai/Golden Triangle

Afternoon

13:00 - 14:00: Upon arrival in Vientiane, you will be transferred by minivan to the boutique Mekong Star Cruise, where the crew will welcome you on board for your 11-day Mekong journey.

During the low-water season, you will stay overnight at a comfortable hotel in the heart of Vientiane.

After settling into your cabin, set out on a guided city tour to discover Vientiane's cultural highlights. 

• Visit Pha That Luang, the country's most sacred Buddhist monument and national symbol
• Admire the elegant Ho Phra Keo, a former royal temple housing Buddhist artifacts
• Stop at the impressive Patuxai Monument, often called Vientiane's Arc de Triomphe.

Evening

As the sun begins to set, return to the ship and take time to relax on the sun deck or in the cozy lounge before joining a welcome reception. The day concludes with a gourmet dinner featuring a selection of Asian and European dishes, marking the beginning of your Mekong adventure.

Morning

Your Mekong adventure begins as the cruise sails upstream through the awe-inspiring landscapes of northern Laos. 

During the low water levels, today's journey combines a scenic overland transfer with a traditional Lao longboat.

You may choose to admire the ever-changing riverside scenery from the sun deck or indulge in a relaxing treatment at the onboard spa.

Afternoon & Evening

Continue cruising through the untouched upper Mekong, where dramatic landscapes and remote villages unfold along the journey. As you sail, your cruise director will share fascinating insights into the region's history, geography, and local cultures.

The ship moors at a peaceful riverside location for the night, allowing you to enjoy a peaceful evening surrounded by the unspoiled beauty of the Mekong.

Morning & Afternoon

Continue cruising as the mountainous scenery gradually gives way to wider riverbanks, fascinating rock formations, and calmer lowland landscapes. Along this stretch, watch the experienced captains skillfully navigate the Mekong's powerful rapids and changing currents.

Arrive in Salakham, a lively market town known for its traditional wood and spice trade. Take a stroll through the bustling local market, where colorful stalls, aromatic spices, and everyday trade offer an authentic glimpse into the region's traditional way of life.

As the cruise continues, pass a striking golden Buddha statue perched on a hillside, marking the beginning of Thailand along the Mekong River.

Morning

The cruise arrives at Ban Don Saingam, a peaceful farming village nestled among lush hills along the Mekong River. From the village, join a 30-minute walk—or a local tractor ride, depending on the season—to a hidden cave. Equipped with torches, explore the cave's fascinating chambers before returning to the ship.

Afternoon

Continue cruising upstream through the scenic Mekong, where tranquil riverside landscapes and forested hills accompany your journey toward the overnight stop.

Morning

Enjoy breakfast on board as the cruise passes peaceful riverside scenery. By mid-morning, arrive at the Xayabouri Dam, Laos' largest hydroelectric power plant, and experience a fascinating 45-minute crossing through this remarkable engineering achievement.

Afternoon

Visit a small hill tribe village, where the cruise has built a long-standing relationship with the local community. Meet the villagers and gain a deeper understanding of their traditions, daily life, and unique culture.

Morning

Embark on a guided tuk-tuk to the spectacular Kuang Si Waterfalls, where turquoise cascades flow into a series of natural pools surrounded by lush forest.

Visit the nearby "Free the Bears" rescue center, where endangered Malayan and Tibetan bears are rescued and rehabilitated. Learn about the organization's inspiring conservation efforts to protect these remarkable animals across Southeast Asia.

Afternoon

Arrive in Luang Prabang, the former royal capital of Laos and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the city's charming historic streets and visit Wat Xieng Thong, the most celebrated temple in Luang Prabang, renowned for its exquisite Laotian architecture.

Return to the ship to relax on the sun deck while enjoying a traditional Lao dance performance, followed by a Baci ceremony, a meaningful local ritual that offers blessings for health, happiness, and a safe journey.

Morning

Rise early to witness or participate in Tak Bat, the centuries-old alms-giving ceremony, as saffron-robed monks walk silently through the old town streets. Afterwards, stroll through the vibrant morning market, where local produce, aromatic spices, teas, and freshly brewed Lao coffee showcase the city's authentic atmosphere.

After breakfast on board, visit the National Museum, housed in the former Royal Palace, to discover the history and royal heritage of Luang Prabang.

Later, visit a traditional handicraft village, where skilled local artisans preserve Laos' rich artistic heritage through generations of craftsmanship.

Afternoon

After lunch, visit the Ock Pop Tok Living Crafts Centre and join the Silkworms to Nagas seminar, where you'll discover the fascinating process of traditional Lao textile weaving and the cultural significance behind its handcrafted garments.

Evening

Join an interactive Lao cooking class, where you'll prepare authentic local dishes under expert guidance before tasting your creations afterward.

Morning

Cruise upstream to the sacred Pak Ou Caves, home to thousands of Buddha statues placed by pilgrims over the centuries.

From the caves, you may choose a scenic jungle trek to Ban Muang Keo or take a short boat ride to the village. There, visit a local distillery to learn how traditional Lao-Lao rice whisky is crafted and meet a local expert, who will demonstrate the centuries-old distillation technique before inviting you to taste the finished product.

Afternoon

Continue cruising upstream toward Oudomxay Province, passing the construction site of the Pak Ou Dam along the way. Spend the remainder of the afternoon at your leisure, relaxing on deck or joining the Cruise Director for an engaging presentation on the region's history and culture.

Morning & Afternoon

Spend a leisurely morning cruising through the tranquil landscapes of northern Laos. Relax on deck as lush hills, peaceful riverside villages, and untouched scenery unfold along the upper Mekong.

Arrive at the Mekong Elephant Park near the Nam Tha estuary, where you can observe rescued elephants in their natural habitat and learn about the sanctuary's conservation efforts.

Evening

Enjoy the cruise's signature barbecue dinner at a scenic riverside setting, creating an unforgettable evening surrounded by the beauty of the Mekong.

Morning & Afternoon

Today, the cruise continues along the final stretch of the upper Mekong toward the Thailand–Laos border, offering one last opportunity to admire the region's spectacular river scenery.

Sail through the scenic upper Mekong toward Huay Xay, the lively border town in Laos' Bokeo Province. Take time to explore a bustling local market and visit a hilltop temple overlooking the Mekong River.

*If time permits, cross the Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge into Thailand for a glimpse of the neighboring country.

Evening

Celebrate the final night of your journey with a special farewell dinner, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences and memories made along the Mekong.

Morning

After breakfast, complete check-out and bid farewell to the crew as you disembark in Chiang Khong. From there, travel to the legendary Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar converge. Visit the impressive Golden Buddha of Sop Ruak and explore the Hall of Opium Museum to gain fascinating insights into the region's history and the legacy of the opium trade.

After the tour, transfer to Chiang Rai Airport or your hotel, marking the end of your unforgettable Mekong River journey.