Along Mighty Mekong River

After arriving at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi International Airport and collecting your luggage, please proceed to the Arrival Hall where your guide will be waiting, holding a sign with your name. Transfer from the airport to the hotel.

Notes: For international arivals at Suvarnabhumi Airport, please procedd to Gate 6, where your guide will be waitting. Please check the link for the meeting airport map.

Overnight in Bangkok.

This journey allows visitors to not only see the city's highlights, but also immerse themselves in Bangkok's cultural diversity. Tour the Royal Grand Palace, one of Thailand's most recognizable and historically significant landmarks. The Grand Palace was built in 1782, after King Rama I, the founder of the Chakri Dynasty, moved the capital from Thonburi to Bangkok. The buildings, which were originally home to the monarchs of the early Chakri Dynasty, are now only used for exceptional ceremonial events.

Over a hundred buildings on the stunning 94ha (233ac) grounds are adorned with intricate decorations, bright murals, and golden spires. Wat Phra Kaew, often known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is among these, along with government offices, the Royal Residence, and the Throne Halls. The Emerald Buddha, a statue of the meditating Buddha crafted of jade or jasper instead of emerald, resides at this treasured location and is the most renowned Buddha image in Thailand. Take the public ferry for a short ride across the Chao Phraya River to see Wat Arun, also called the Temple of Dawn, on the opposite side of the river. The construction of this Buddhist temple lasted from 1809 to 1851, and it was named after Arun, the Hindu deity of dawn. The 82-meter (269-foot) Khmer-style tower stands out, and the intricate flower mosaics are created from shards of Chinese porcelain that were brought over as ballast by Chinese ships. Climb the main stairway for panoramic views of the bustling Chao Phraya River, the Grand Palace, and Wat Pho on the opposite bank. Kudichin, a neighborhood on the west bank of the legendary Chao Phraya River not far from Wat Arun, was already there long before the city was formally founded, but most travelers stop to enjoy the unique blend of Thai and Western influences that defines its multicultural heritage and enduring traditions. Prepare to immerse yourself in an intersection of Eastern and Western traditions as you stroll leisurely through a tranquil river neighborhood and marvel at the breathtaking architecture of some typical monuments: An important part of Bangkok's Portuguese heritage is the Santa Cruz Church, a famous Catholic cathedral. Kian Un Keng Shrine, a Hokkienese joss house, one of the oldest shrines in Thonburi; Windsor House, an antique riverside residence once owned by British merchant Louis Windsor, showcasing colonial-era architecture; Wat Kalayanamitr, a Buddhist temple built during the reign of King Rama III, which houses Phra Phuttha Trai Rattana Nayo. Pay a visit to the Baan Kudichin Museum, which is housed in the three-story restored wooden home of a prominent member of the community and serves as an archive for storytelling about the history of the area. The museum provides a glimpse into the illustrious past of the Thai-Portuguese community that has flourished in the region for more than 250 years.

Overnight in Bangkok.

Set out this morning for the Ayutthaya History Park, a 1.5-hour trip through the rural outskirts of Bangkok, noticing the breathtaking changeover from the bustling city to the picturesque town. Bang Pa-In Summer Palace a beautiful collection of European, Chinese and Thai buildings. Built in the 17th century and restored by King Rama V, Bang Pa-In Summer Palace is not only a historical treasure but also a testament to the creativity and architectural diversity that Thai kings incorporated into their royal residences. Take a tour of the palace and marvel at the stunning fusion of Thai, European, and Chinese architecture. Proceed to Ayutthaya, the site of the Thai kingdom's capital for 417 years. Established in 1350 by King U-Thong, the kingdom fell in 1767 when it was destroyed by the Burmese army. The site's designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site is a result of the consolidation, repair, and reconstruction of the ruins of all the most important buildings, which give visitors an idea of its historical splendor. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the ruins of various old temples, such as Wat Phra Si Sanphet, which was formerly a royal temple during the reign of Ayutthaya; Wat Mahathat, where a tree surrounds the Buddha's head; and, if time permits, Wat Chai Wattanaram, an exquisite example of Khmer architectural influence. Early afternoon, transfer back to Bangkok by private car. The rest of the day is free for you to relax or explore as you wish.

Overnight in Bangkok.

 At scheduled time, transfer from Bangkok Hotel to Suvarnabhumi Airport by private vehilce. After arriving at Chiang Rai Airport and collecting your luggage, please proceed to the Arrival Hall where your guide will be waiting, holding a sign with your name. Drive approximately 2 hours from the airport to your hotel in Chiang Khong. The remainder of the day is at your leisure to relax and unwind after the journey.

Notes: For domestic arrivals at Chiang Rai Airport, please proceed to Gate 2, where your guide will be waiting. Please check the link for the meeting airport map Overnight in Chiang Rai, Chiang Khong.

From 07:30-09:00, guests will meet our English-speaking guide holding a welcome sign at the Lao Immigration Office in Huay Xay. The guide will assist with the visa application process. After obtaining the visa, guests will join a shared minivan transfer to the slow boat pier. Our boat departs Huay Xay no later than 10:30 AM. Kindly note that the guide will not be able to wait for late arrivals. During the morning cruise, our guide will give a short briefing on Lao customs and etiquette (Do's and Don'ts), along with an introduction to the Mekong River and its origins. A traditional Lao lunch set will be served on board at approximately 12:00 PM. Before reaching Pakbeng, we will stop to visit a remote hill tribe village of either the Khamu or Hmong people. This is a unique opportunity to learn about rural life and traditional livelihoods in Laos. We expect to arrive in Pakbeng at around 17:00. Upon arrival, check-in hotel and relax.

Overnight in Pakbeng.

Note: Cruise Departure Schedule

From November to March: Daily departures - Monday through Sunday (7 days/week)

From April to October: Departures on Wednesdays and Saturdays only 

The boat departs Pakbeng at 08:00. Sit back and enjoy the scenic cruise along the Mekong River, passing lush jungle landscapes and peaceful riverside villages. Our first stop will be at Ban Baw Village, a culturally rich community where three ethnic groups: Lao Loum, Shan, and Tai Lue, live in harmony. The village is well-known for its traditional Lao Lao whisky production and handcrafted textiles.

After the visit, a traditional Lao lunch will be served on board at around 12:00. In the afternoon, we'll stop for a visit at the Pak Ou Caves (Tham Ting), home to more than two thousand Buddha statues. Nestled in limestone cliffs at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Ou rivers, this site is one of the most revered pilgrimage destinations for Lao Buddhists. Following the visit, our crew will serve a refreshing Roselle drink, specially prepared by our onboard team. We expect to arrive in Luang Prabang at approximately 17:00. Meet your driver and transfer to hotel by private vehilce.

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

The alms-giving ceremony (or Tak Bat in Lao) is a longstanding tradition of Lao Buddhist culture as well as a sacred ceremony for Luang Prabang's residents. Every morning, hundreds of monks in vivid saffron-colored robes leave their pagodas and walk barefoot down the streets, quietly line up and collect offerings from devout Buddhists. 05:30 wake up before dawn to witness and take in offering alms to hundreds of saffron-robed monks in the early morning light. This is also one of the ways that Buddhists can make merit, helping contribute good circumstances for the future. A gift of alms can be prepared if you wish to make an offering. Then observe the town come to life and continue to visit a bustling morning market to peruse a vibrant range of uniquely Lao ingredients.

Enjoy the sights and sounds of the local life before heading back to your hotel for breakfast. 09:00 get ready for a half-day touring some of the highlights of this incredibly magnificent town. Start the exploration with a visit to the Royal Palace featuring the combination of the French beaux-arts styles and traditional Laos architecture. The palace is now turned to a National Museum boating the precious collections of the Royal artifacts. Drive or enjoy a leisurely walk on through the peaceful tree-lined streets to admire some of Luang Prabang's famous temples. Considered as a significant religious symbol of the Buddhist architecture, Wat Xieng Thong is a great masterpiece of mosaics and carved wood featuring traditional Lao style. Wat Vitsoun, the most ancient temple of Luang Prabang, was built with simple architecture and housed the Prabang Buddhas ancient statues and steles. Conclude the tour with the visit to the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre, a private museum devoted to Lao ethnography. The museum houses a culturally rich display of informative and engaging exhibitions that provides a fascinating look into the diversity of Laos' ethnic cultures. Stroll around the museum and admire valuable artifacts, traditional textiles handicraft tools, household objects from the ethnic minority groups which inhabit the Luang Prabang area.

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Luang Prabang is not only famed for its UNESCO listed charming town but also for picturesque landscapes formed from spectacular waterfalls set amidst thick jungles, hidden hill tribe villages where the unique traditional customs and lifestyle have been maintained for hundreds of years despite the influence of outside modern life.

This morning, drive 30 minutes southeast of Luang Prabang along scenic countryside roads to a Hill tribe village where life is slow and simple with people living close to their farmlands and paddy fields. The village is only accessible by small hiking trails that have helped preserve its remote authenticity. Stroll around the village and engage in friendly conversation with Khmu and Hmong people to gain an insight into their lifestyle. Following the hidden trails winding through the local fruit orchards, rice fields, and vegetable farms, you will get inside the heart of a thick jungle where is nested one of Luang Prabang's most picturesque waterfalls, with a multi-tiered cascade of pale turquoise blue water flowing from the thick jungle above into perfectly sculpted limestone pools below. Follow the unpaved trail as it gradually climbs through the forest to reach different levels of natural blue pools, some are shallow and one central pool has a rope swing. Swimming in the refreshing waters is possible, although between November and January the water temperature is very cold.

Take a leisurely hike through the natural park past the Asian Bear Rescue Center, home to more than 20 Asiatic Black Bears rescued from dire circumstances. The bears live in an enclosure with lots of trees, swings, and other playthings. Stroll along with the wooden viewing platform and view the adorable beasts as they lazily lounge or play together or search for foods.

Notes: Trekking distance: 12-15km on the village roads and dirt trails

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

At the scheduled time, transfer to Luang Prabang Railway Station for your train journey to the capital city, Vientiane. Arrive Vientiane Railway Station, meet your driver at exit gate and transfer to city cnetre.

Situated on the banks of the Mekong River, Vientiane is the smallest capital city of Southeast Asia with a population of over 800,000 inhabitants. The city offers a blend of ancient gilded Buddhist temples, French colonial architecture, and excellent walking opportunities along its peaceful riverfront. Spend this half-day exploring some of Vientiane's most remarkable highlights.

Visit the serene Wat Sisaket, the only temple that survived the Siamese occupation and famed for its Siamese style of Buddhist architecture rather than in Lao style. This 19th-century temple is also the home to over 10,000 Buddha sculptures of myriad sizes and styles. The former royal temple of Wat Prakeo, which means “Altar of the Emerald Buddha”, is now a museum richly adorned with carved wooden features, a magnificent 16th century lacquered door with Hindu carvings, and a collection of Buddha statues. Continue your visit to That Luang, a gold-covered large Buddhist stupa in the center of Vientiane, generally considered as the national symbol of Laos. Cap off your visit at the Patouxay Victory Monument, which translates to “Victory Gate”, is a massive concrete war monument similar to in style to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, dedicated to who sacrificed their lives for the independence of the nation. Notice the typically Laotian design, decorated with many Buddhists mythological figurines such as of “kinnari” (half-female, half-bird figures). Opt to climb a stairway of 197 steps to the top of the monument to enjoy the panoramic view over Vientiane.

Overnight in Vientiane.

At meeting time, drive to Vientiane airport for flight to Pakse. Upon arrival at Pakse Airport, after collecting your luggage, please head to the exit gate and look for your guide who will be waiting for you. Then, you will be transferred to Wat Phou temple Situated in southern Laos, near the Thai border.

Pakse is the capital of Champasak province, set on the banks of the Mekong. The highlight of this one-street town is the picturesque pre-Angkorian Wat Phou Temple. Built between the late 10th and early 11th centuries, the temple was designated as a World Heritage Site in 2001, inscribed for being an outstanding example of the integration of symbolic landscape of great spiritual significance to its natural surroundings. Notice the most impressive carvings, cut deep into the stone.

Overnight in Champasak. 

This morning, venture to Si Phan Don, which means 'Four Thousand Islands' in the Lao language, is a scenic stretch of about 50km along the Mekong River. Si Phan Don is characterized by numerous islands, half of which are submerged when the Mekong River is in flood. The principal islands of Si Phan Don are Don Khong (the largest), and Don Det and Don Khone.

Arrive at Don Khon Island, visit the remnants of the French colonial area, including an old pier, a railway station, a former French hospital building, and the maritime office. After lunch, board the local boat for a slow journey on the Mekong River to visit Li Phi Waterfall (or locally called Taat Somhamit), nicknamed the “Corridor of the Devil”, a natural border between Laos and Cambodia. Enjoy the cool breeze from the Mekong River, feel the peace and serenity while your boat glides toward the pier close to the Voeunkham border between Laos and Cambodia where you will disembark the boat and travel by bus to visit the Khonphapheng Waterfall, the widest waterfall in all of South East Asia. After the visit, transfer to hotel on Don Khone Island for overnight.

Overnight in Don Khone 

Early in the morning, enjoy breakfast before taking a short boat ride back to Nakasang Pier, where your private car will be waiting to transfer you to the Laos-Cambodia border. After exiting Laos and completing immigration and customs procedures, you will be greeted by your Cambodian guide and driver for the overland transfer to Preah Vihear (approximately 6 hours). Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and enjoy some time to relax.

Overnight in Preah Vihear 

This morning, visit the magical temple of Preah Vihear gave its name to the province in which it is now located. Lying on a disputed area of land right on the border, the temple has been the subject of debate within Cambodia and Thailand since the late 19th Century.

You will be transferred by an enclosed pick-up truck up the steep track to the temple at the top. Start exploring the 'sacred sanctuary' while listening to your guide sharing a little bit more about the history of this incredibly inspiring temple. Recognized as the UNESCO World Heritage site since 2008, the Preah Vihear Temple is located in the heart of a plateau that dominates the plain of Cambodia. The complex has been well-preserved and adapted to the natural environment and religious function. Notice a system of pavements and staircases on an 800-meter-long axis which is an outstanding architecture, typical of Khmer architecture in terms of decoration, and connection to surrounding landscapes. Continue your journey with a 4–5-hour drive to Siem Reap. Upon arrival in the late afternoon, check in at your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Angkor complex is one of the most important archaeological sites in South-East Asia as it contains the outstanding remains of the different capitals of the Khmer Empire, from the 9th to the 15th Century.

Today, set off to encounter the beautiful temples which are considered as Angkor's jewel. Transfer from your hotel to Ta Prohm, perhaps most popularly known as The Tomb Raider temple. Built in the late 12th and early 13th Centuries as a Buddhist temple dedicated to the mother of Jayavarman VII, this beautiful temple is the photogenic and atmospheric combination of trees growing out of the ruins and the jungle surroundings. The magnificent tree roots have merged over the centuries with the temple's huge stone blocks, emphasizing a 'forgotten city' feeling.

Explore the ancient Angkor Thom, founded by King Jayavarman VII in the 12th Century and was one of the largest Khmer cities and remained the capital until the 17th Century. Get inside the reinforced city of Angkor Thom to admire the mysterious Bayon temple, crowned with the large number of serene faces sculpted on its towers. Also, take this chance to learn more about the intricate carvings of the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King.

Your temple exploration continues as you enter the gate of Angkor Wat, a vast temple complex originally constructed in the early 12th Century by King Suryavarman II. Originally constructed as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu for the Khmer Empire, it was gradually transformed into a Buddhist temple. Stroll through the intricate and astonishing bas-reliefs that represent hundreds of fine carvings of Apsara, Hindu mythology as well as key events in its narrative tradition. Be amazed by the sheer size of the temple and learn how the Khmer Empire prospered between the 9th and 13th Century. Your last stop is Artisans Angkor, preserving Cambodia's artistry with exceptional craftsmanship. It offers quality handmade products, enriching lives and heritage.

Overnight in Siem Reap 

Siem Reap is famed not only for a gateway to the ancient temple ruins of Angkor but also for its rural outskirt that offers plenty of interesting activities such as visiting traditional craft village and participating in a home-style cooking demonstration. Today, set off to take in the sights of the beautiful surroundings and paddy fields, engage in local life as it passes slowly by. Stroll around a peaceful village, passing through lush rice fields, fruit orchards, and vegetable farms to gain an overview of the local daily activities including planting rice, herding buffaloes, catching fish, or handicrafts…

Stop at a family-run workshop where local artisans will explain to you the importance of Rattan craft for thousands of families in the village and guide you on how to wave a rattan basket traditional way. Continue a short walk to the home of a local farmer surrounded by gardens and farms where you will engage with him and his family member to find out the truly Khmer lifestyle in the countryside. Get your hand busy to prepare with the host some traditional Khmer dishes. You will have a chance to experience each step, from selecting and seasoning to plating a typical Khmer meal which you will sample afterward. The host will be happy to share with you the delicious home cook recipes to take home as well.

Return hotel and spend afternoon at leisure.

17:00 pick up at hotel for “Phare, the Cambodian Circus”, one of the most unique, authentic, and top-rated evening entertainment options in Siem Reap. Much more than a circus, Phare artists share uniquely Cambodia stories by combining music, dance, and modern circus. This art is an amazing blend of traditional and modern theater, music, dance, acrobatics, and juggling, performed by young Cambodians who have underprivileged backgrounds and succeed in finding a new sense of purpose and hope. Several generations of performers have graduated through Phare's original Battambang campus and many of them have the touching personal stories of abuse and hardship, making their talents a triumph against the odds. Take in this inspiring night out that is perfectly created for adults and children alike.

Overnight in Siem Reap 

At schedule time, drive to Siem Reap airport for flight to Phnom Penh. Upon arrival at Phnom Penh Airport, meet your guide at exit gate . Then, you will be transferred to your hotel in town by a private vehicle. Once known as “The Pearl of Asia”, Phnom Penh used to be one of the finest cities in the region. Situated at the junction of Mekong River, Phnom Penh has been Cambodia's capital for a majority of the last six centuries. Rich in history, the city offers several cultural and historical sites to discover.

Start your day with the visit to the Royal Palace, originally built in 1866s by the grandfather of the current Cambodian King. The palace is a complex of splendid regal buildings with its classic Khmer roofs, ornate gilding, and intricate layout of defensive walls, featuring a great mixture of Khmer architecture and slight French touch. It includes the official residence of the royal family with parts of the massive palace compound, partially opened to the public. Visit the National Museum, which is designed in Khmer style by a French archaeologist and painter in 1917, dedicated exclusively to Khmer art and sculpture. Gain insight into Cambodian history from Cambodia's "Golden Age" of Angkor, with an excellent collection of Khmer art and sculpture from archaeological sites across Cambodia.

Overnight in Phnom Penh 

 Enjoy a leisurely morning at your own pace, relax at the hotel, take a walk around the neighborhood. At 11:30, transfer to the International Floating Port to board a speedboat for your cross-border journey to Chau Doc, Vietnam. This scenic boat ride along the Mekong River takes approximately 6 hours, offering a unique perspective of life along the waterway as you travel from Cambodia to Vietnam.

Arrive at the Chau Doc pier around 18:30, where your driver will be waiting to greet you. Situated on the border with Cambodia, Chau Doc enjoys a unique cultural mix of Vietnamese, Chinese, Cham, and Khmer ethnic groups. Take a short drive to your hotel for check-in. Spend the evening at leisure to rest and unwind after the day's travel.

Overnight in Chau Doc.

This morning, we drive 45 minutes to Tra Su Nature Reserve (open year-round, breeding birds are most plentiful between July and Feb). Travel by sampan through endless waterways flanked by mangroves and lush greenery. This sanctuary covers an area of approximately 850 hectares. A wide variety of colorful birds and other animals can be found here: storks, bats, snakes, turtles …

Particularly interesting to watch are birds that can walk on water: because of their low body weight they do not fall through the densely grown floating habitats. After lunch at a local restaurant, drive to Can Tho, the heartland of Mekong Delta. After hotel check-in, spend this evening free at leisure.

Overnight in Can Tho 

 Wake up early morning and board a local boat to visit Cai Rang floating market. The waterway becomes a maze of hundreds of boats, you will see an interesting trading activity by using a traditional “offering pole”-exchanging consumer goods hanging on the pole for Mekong fruit and vegetables with local sellers. Have your camera ready as this vibrant wholesale market on the water makes for excellent photo opportunities, especially from the unique vantage point of your boat.

Continue cruising to Ba Lang hamlet where you will hop on your bicycle for a leisure ride, along narrow village lanes. The highlight includes crossing over wooden bridges and taking a local ferry ride with other commuters. Make a stop at a local home for a tea break and interact with the host. Located not too far away from bustling Can Tho city, this village retained its bucolic beauty, typical of the countryside villages of the Mekong Delta where life is simple and slow with people living close to nature.

You will be transferred to Can Tho downtown and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant on the riverbank serving up delicious Mekong Delta specialties. Visit Binh Thuy Ancient House, filled with features that represent rural areas in the Mekong Delta region during the 20th century. Built in 1870, the house combines Eastern and Western-style with the inner architecture belonging to traditional Eastern culture and the exterior representing Western architecture.

Overnight in Can Tho 

This morning, head out to un-touched areas not well-known by tourists in Ben Tre. Board the Apricot Cruise, featuring open on all sides to allow the river breezes to flow freely. From the comfort of your Apricot Cruise, meander down the Mekong observing local life play out along the river banks. Visit some local families and see how local traditional methods utilize every bit of the coconut.

Visit a local farmer's house where you will have an interaction with the host to understand his daily farming tasks. It is a full day of interesting experiences: boat rowing through winding water-coconut canals, bike riding along lush rural roads, sampling tasty local cakes, tea with honey, and enjoying lunch served with Mekong specialties at Apricot Riverside Restaurant. Head back to Ho Chi Minh City after lunch.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh city 

Formerly known as “Saigon” before 1975, Ho Chi Minh City today is Vietnam's commercial centre that never sleeps. Although the city is a dynamic metropolis undergoing dramatic change, it still retain the strong link to the past through historic landmarks and beautiful French colonial buildings dotted throughout the city. Set off with your guide for a half-day excursion taking in some of the important sites of the city.

Visit the War Remnants Museum which presents a partial yet vivid view of the American War through the Vietnamese's eyes as it contains fascinating remnants and photographs of the past including US armored vehicles, artillery pieces, bombs, and infantry weapons. (Please note that some of the displays are very graphic and sensitive). Wind your way to one of the most significant historical sites of the city, the Reunification Palace which is former Residence of the Indochina Governor-General and later of the President of the Republic of Southern Vietnam until the down fall on April 30, 1975. Take a stroll around the Palace and admire the amazing work of its architecture while learning from your guide the untold stories connected to great changes in Ho Chi Minh City's history.

A short drive or walk away is one of Saigon's most historic landmarks, the Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires, based on the original construction from Paris. Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, designed by the French architect, Gustav Eiffel, before he had risen to fame for the Eiffel Tower.​This afternoon, drive out to the bustling China town, locally known as Cho Lon, with its colorful atmosphere and mysterious temples. Visit the lively Thien Hau Temple which was built by the Cantonese congregation in the early 19th Century honor the Goddess of the sea. Admire the enormous burning incense-coils that never fail to impress while your guide will explain to you how the Chinese have immigrated to Vietnam and brought their cultural, religious and philosophical thought to their new home-country. Opt to enjoy a leisure walk through the narrow streets to admire the Chinese architecture through the local houses, pagodas and temples, explore the sights and sounds of China town. Return to downtown and make a stop at Ben Thanh Market to enjoy shopping and discover your bargaining power and come away with unusual items that will always remind you of this exciting day.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh city

At meeting time, drive to Tan Son Nhat airport for departure flight.