A pioneering voyage of discovery between Vientianne and the Upper Mekong, crossing the Thai border to finish in Chiang Khong. The ever changing backdrop contains caves, mountains and riverside life as you sail. The Laos Pandaw, built in 2015, is an intimate river cruise exuding colonial charm with all the comfort of today's luxuries. On board, the local master chef and his experienced culinary team will create wonders from each region as you relax on deck and gaze at the majesty of the Mekong.
CRUISING THE UPPER MEKONG
HIGHLIGHTS
- Laotian cooking demonstrations on the upper deck as you cruise up the Mekong River.
- Visiting local markets and experiencing the riverside life of Northern Laos.
- Exploring the wonders of UNESCO-protected Luang Prabang.
- Jungle walks and ethnic villages of the Upper Mekong.
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Arrive
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Day 1 Vientiane
Your voyage starts today with lunch on board before exploring the highlights of Laos' capital city including Sisaket Temple and the Phatouxay Monument. Set sail this afternoon and enjoy dinner on board as you moor near Vientiane.
Overnight: RV Laos Pandaw
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Day 2 Cruising The Mekong
Cruise upstream, passing lush jungle and riverside villages. Enjoy a cooking demonstration on the Upper Deck before mooring overnight in Ban Xanakham.
Overnight: RV Laos Pandaw
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Day 3 Pak Lai
This afternoon visit the French administrative town of Pak Lai with its colonial buildings and bustling local market. Pak Lai is home to the largest elephant festive in SE Asia, usually in February. Return to the ship at Ban Muang for overnight.
Overnight: RV Laos Pandaw
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Day 4 Ban Park Bor Village
This afternoon enjoy a walking tour of Ban Park Bor (Kmu Tribal) Village; a typical village set on the banks of the Mekong amidst lush jungle.
Overnight: RV Laos Pandaw
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Day 5 Ban Mouang Khai Village and Luang Prabang
In the morning sail pass the newly constructed lock that forms part of the Xanyaburi Hydro Electric Power Plant. Continue upstream to the village of Ban Mouang Khai. Visit the jungle pools and dramatic Kuang Si Waterfalls, before arriving in Luang Prabang to wander around the buzzing Night Market.
Overnight: RV Laos Pandaw
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Day 6 Luang Prabang
Morning walking tour visiting the National Museum and morning market. Afternoon free to enjoy the beauty and unique atmosphere of Luang Prabang. Enjoy traditional Laos dancing on the upper deck late afternoon.
Overnight: RV Laos Pandaw
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Day 7 Pak Ou Buddha Caves
Early morning walking tour to see the alms offering by the local people to hundreds of monks who walk around the city every morning. Morning sightseeing by local boat exploring the unique Pak Ou Caves, a Buddhist sanctuary with spectacular limestone cliff faces. Sail upstream on the beautiful Mekong towards Ban Bo. After lunch, enjoy a cooking demonstration on the upper deck.
Overnight: RV Laos Pandaw
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Day 8 Pak Beng
Morning walking tour of the market town of Pak Beng. After lunch, if time permits, explore Ban Pak Sip, a traditional riverside village full of charm and life.
Overnight: RV Laos Pandaw
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Day 9 Ban Houayxay
This morning enjoy a walking tour in a Khamo village before cruising through the mountainous landscapes to the Thai border. The night is spent on the Lao side in the Huay xay area where you can take a late afternoon village walk. Enjoy cocktails and dinner on board.
Overnight: RV Laos Pandaw
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Day 10 Chiang Khong
Cross the Laos-Thai border on foot over Friendship Bridge before rejoining the ship on the other side in Chiang Khong. This evening there will be farewell cocktails and Thai traditional dancing on board for your last night.
Overnight: RV Laos Pandaw
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Day 11 Disembark
Disembark after breakfast for your onward journey home.
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Depart
GUIDELINE PRICE - Per Person
| Mid | £ 5,132 |
| High | £ 5,645 |
BOOKING NOTES
- Based on two people sharing a twin/double cabin.
- Early booking discounts and Single Supplement waivers apply on certain cruises.
- Cruises go both upsteam and downstream.
- Not suitable for those with walking difficulties.
- In low water (December to March) the itinerary might vary.
INCLUSIONS
- All accommodation as detailed in the itinerary.
- All meals on board the Pandaw and breakfast at the lodges.
- Private transfers throughout.
- All sightseeing, entrance fees and guide services as detailed in the itinerary.
EXTRAS
- International flights.
- Meals not indicated in the itinerary.
- Items of a personal nature such as laundry, drinks, gratuities (discretionary).
- Entrance fees and excursions not specifically mentioned as included.
- Travel insurance or visa fees.
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REASONS TO BOOK
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