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Mekong Sun Cruise 4 days: Essence of the Mekong

  • Destination: Luang Prabang - Golden Triangle - Huay Xai - Pak Ou Caves - Ban Muang Keo
  • Cruise Ship: Mekong Sun Cruise

Discover the highlights of Northern Laos on an unforgettable 4-day Mekong River cruise. Journey from the legendary Golden Triangle to the UNESCO-listed town of Luang Prabang, passing through remote and once-hidden stretches of this iconic river. Along the way, explore colorful local markets, experience authentic Laotian traditions, and immerse yourself in the region’s timeless charm. Relax onboard your exclusive vessel and soak in the unspoiled natural beauty of the upper Mighty Mekong.

Cabin & Rates

Economy Cabin

Economy Cabin

2 pax
12.0 m2
Twin
  • All board - meals included
Cabin detail
Classic Cabin

Classic Cabin

2 pax
12.0 m2
Twin
  • All board - meals included
Cabin detail
Superior Cabin

Superior Cabin

2 pax
18.0 m2
Twin/ Double
  • All board - meals included
Cabin detail
Booking Policy
Price Includes
  • 3 overnights in selected cabin type aboard your boutique river cruise vessel
  • Local English-speaking guides
  • Entrance fees for sightseeing mentioned in the itinerary
  • Excursions as mentioned in the itinerary
  • Tours and transfers as mentioned
  • Gratuities for local guides, drivers, performers and porters
  • Water in the vehicles and on the ship
  • Meals as indicated in the itinerary (B= Breakfast, L=Lunch, and D=Dinner)
  • Coffee, tea, and table water is complementary onboard your boutique river cruise vessel
  • Presentations and lectures onboard by the cruise director
Price Excludes
  • Flights
  • Meals and services other than those noted in the itinerary
  • Visas for Laos
  • Laundry, telephone calls, and personal expenditures
  • Gratuities for boat crew
  • Personal, non-itinerary services
  • Alcoholic and soft drinks other than mentioned
  • Personal Insurance
  • Transfers from/to Chiang Rai and Luang Prabang airports or hotels within city limits
Cancellation Policy

Cancellation by Customer

  • Cancellation before 120 days prior to the start of the cruise:30 % of the total rate
  • Between 120 and 61 days prior to the start of the cruise: 50 % of the total rate
  • Between 60 and 30 days prior to the start of the cruise: 70 % of the total rate
  • Less than 30 days prior to the start of the cruise: 90 % of the total rate
Children Policy
  • Mekong River Cruises allows children from 8 years and above on board (please contact us for special permission for children below 8 years of age).
  • A cabin cannot be occupied solely by children under 12 years of age. One adult must always stay with a child in the same cabin.
  • Children under 18 years must be accompanied by an adult over 18 years of age.
  • An adult must always be present in the cabin.
  • Children on board must be supervised at all times by a parent or legal guardian.
  • Adults are fully responsible for their children and must supervise them at all times.
  • Please note our cruises are not suitable for young or small children as the ships have railings but no netting. The structure of our trips is generally not suitable for small children. On board, no special entertainment programs, supervision or toys are offered

Cruise Itineraries

Day 1Luang Prabang Boarding - Pak Ou Caves

Morning

At 10:00, your journey begins as you step aboard your comfortable Laotian cruise ship. Settle into your well-appointed cabin, unpack, and prepare for a 4-day voyage into one of Southeast Asia’s most untouched river landscapes.

The cruise then heads upstream to the legendary Pak Ou Caves, home to thousands of Buddha statues placed by pilgrims over centuries. From here, choose between a jungle trek through lush forest leading to Ban Muang Keo Village or a short boat transfer for a more leisurely experience.

Arriving in Ban Muang Keo, gain insight into local life with a visit to a traditional village home. Learn the ancient craft of distilling Lao-Lao, Laos’ iconic rice whiskey, guided by Miss Somechan Khonpachith, a master distiller who will share the secrets of this time-honored process, followed by a tasting experience.

Afternoon & Evening

After the village visit, return to the ship as it continues cruising upstream toward Oudomxay Province, passing the Pak Ou dam construction site along the way.

As the river scenery unfolds, relax onboard and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the Mekong. Spend the evening at leisure—unwinding on deck, savoring dinner, and taking in the peaceful rhythm of life along the river as the ship sails deeper into northern Laos.

Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Mekong Sun Cruise

Day 2The Mighty Mekong

Morning & Afternoon

As the journey continues further upstream, river traffic gradually disappears, allowing you to savor the Mekong’s untouched serenity.

Relax in your comfortable cabin, the elegant lounge, or on deck beneath the sun, as the scenery unfolds into a dramatic panorama—lush tropical hills, striking rock formations along the riverbanks, and a mesmerizing interplay of rushing currents and gentle rivulets. The raw power of the mighty Mekong lends the voyage the spirit of a true river expedition.

Evening

As evening falls, a signature highlight awaits: the celebrated Mekong River Cruises BBQ dinner, served beneath a canopy of stars on the riverbanks, offering a truly unforgettable dining experience in the heart of nature.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Mekong Sun Cruise

Day 3Relaxing on Board - Discover Village Life

Today is dedicated to relaxation as you unwind on deck, immersed in the serene beauty of northern Laos—a true retreat from the rhythms of everyday life. Cruising past emerald hills, the ship approaches a charming Laotian village seemingly untouched by time, where an engaging shore excursion offers insight into local life.

Returning onboard, a flavorful lunch is served before the journey continues through ever-changing river scenery. As evening arrives, a carefully prepared dinner awaits, bringing the day to a refined and satisfying close.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Mekong Sun Cruise

Day 4Pak Tha - Huay Xai

Morning

Enjoy breakfast as you take in the final, breathtaking vistas of the Mekong during the closing moments of your river journey toward the Thailand–Laos border. Soon, the ship arrives in Huay Xai, the vibrant border town of Bokeo Province, named after the region’s sapphire heritage.

Explore the local market and visit a hilltop temple overlooking the Mekong, where sweeping river views provide a memorable farewell to the journey.

Afternoon

In the early afternoon, your unforgettable cruise experience concludes with a transfer to the Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge or onward to your Huay Xai hotel.

Meals: Breakfast

Important Notes:

  • PROGRAMS & SCHEDULES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE

Our Customers Say

9.3

Excellent

3 reviews

Write your review
9.5Excellent05/09/2025

Katya W

Cambodia

Luang Prabang-Vientiane trip

There are many options for an amazing sail along the Mekong River. Only a small group of about 20 persons were on the boat. We therefore had a terrific time and enough room to unwind and take in the scenery downstream. We were accompanied by a kind and accommodating guide who was prepared to assist any visitor.
With stops at towns, caverns, and other noteworthy locations, the program was engaging and well-planned. We stopped at Pakbeng, which has a variety of lodging options, eateries, and pubs. With the Lao people's kindness, this is a fantastic introduction to Laos. To experience the splendor of the Mekong River, I heartily suggest this cruise.

9.2Excellent04/07/2025

Freddy E

United States

Best way to travel around Luang Prabang

We thoroughly enjoyed our six-day sail in Luang Prabang. The ship was outfitted with really comfy seats, a clean washroom, and a pleasant ambiance. Viewing the scenery of the Mekong from a traditional boat like this was one of our trip's highlights. The meal was also amazing. Highly recommended, especially if you aren't ready for public boats or can't afford the pricey cruise.

9.3Excellent13/07/2024

Jenny H

Australia

Vientiane - Luang Prabang via Mekong Sun, 6 days

Laos is a wonderful country, and we had a dream come true: a trip along the Mekong River. There was little information, and we had trouble identifying a cruise line. There were few options. Rosie from Bestprice Travel booked this ship and land vacation of Laos for us. We did not have anything to complain about. Amazing beauty along the river, and a pleasant cruise, however modest. Like Mekong Sun's meals and trips.

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