Laos: Upper Mekong Cruise aboard Anouvong

This morning, we welcome you after clearing Lao immigration. Once all guests have arrived, we transfer by minivan to our ship, Anouvong, moored at Huay Xai Pier. After check-in and settling into your cabin, we set course downstream to begin our unforgettable seven-night voyage along the Upper Mekong. As the scenery unfolds, our expert guide introduces the rich diversity of Laos’ ethnic communities who call the riverbanks home. Our first stop is Huay Phaluang village, where the Khmu people have lived for generations. Here, we take part in a traditional Baci ceremony, a moving local ritual led by village elders to bless your journey. Later, we continue cruising to Huay Ting, where we moor beside a peaceful sandbank. This evening, join us for a welcome cocktail followed by dinner surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the Mekong.

Meals:  L,D

Begin the day with sunrise over the river, or join our gentle morning yoga session on deck. By late morning, we arrive in Pakbeng, home to one of Laos’ best-managed elephant sanctuaries. Here, we meet rescued elephants living in a protected forest environment — a powerful example of sustainable tourism and conservation. After lunch onboard, enjoy a hands-on bamboo weaving workshop, learning a traditional craft and creating a small keepsake to take home. This afternoon, we visit a unique riverside community where Hmong, Lao Loum and Khmu cultures live side by side. Meeting local families brings yesterday’s cultural insights vividly to life. As evening falls, gather for drinks and a preview of tomorrow’s adventures, followed by a traditional performance featuring the haunting melodies of the kene flute.

Meals:  B,L,D

Rise early for yoga or simply enjoy the first light across the Mekong. As we sail toward Luang Prabang, our guide shares the fascinating history of the Golden Triangle — a region shaped by trade, conflict and colonial influence. We stop at the quiet village of Khok Luang, where bamboo homes sit above wide rice fields. Take time to meet local residents and gain insight into rural life along the river. After lunch, we visit the sacred Pak Ou Caves, home to thousands of Buddha statues nestled within limestone grottoes. From here, you may choose an optional kayaking excursion along the Nam Ou River, or visit Ban Muang Keo village to see traditional silk weaving and local crafts. By early evening, we arrive in Luang Prabang. After dinner, enjoy your first stroll through this enchanting UNESCO-listed town — perhaps with a coffee as life drifts by at its gentle pace.

Meals:  B,L,D

Wake to the calm beauty of Luang Prabang and enjoy coffee or tea in the lounge before joining optional morning yoga beside one of Laos’ most iconic temples. After breakfast, we set out on a guided walking tour through the peaceful streets of this World Heritage city. Explore the old town peninsula where the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers meet, and admire the distinctive blend of Lao and colonial architecture. Return onboard for lunch, then spend the afternoon discovering more of Luang Prabang’s cultural treasures, including the former Royal Palace, now the National Museum. This evening, we dine ashore at one of the town’s renowned restaurants before returning to the ship — or perhaps continuing on to the vibrant night market.

Meals:  B,L,D

Before dawn, those who wish may witness the moving alms-giving ceremony known as Tak Bat, as saffron-robed monks process silently through the streets. We farewell Luang Prabang and continue cruising downstream. Our first stop is the innovative Laos Buffalo Dairy Farm, a wonderful example of community-based social enterprise. Later, we visit the spectacular Kuang Si Waterfalls, where turquoise pools tumble through the jungle. Enjoy a gentle walk through the park, and perhaps a refreshing swim at the base of the falls. Back onboard, we cruise toward the impressive Xayaburi Hydroelectric Dam. This evening, enjoy a fascinating talk on Laos’ growing role as Southeast Asia’s energy hub, followed by dinner and a film screening in the lounge.

Meals:  B,L,D

This morning, we witness the remarkable passage through the Xayaburi Dam water gates — an unforgettable engineering moment on the Mekong. During today’s cruise, enjoy onboard activities including a presentation on Lao royalty and King Anouvong, after whom our vessel is named, as well as a Lao–Thai cooking demonstration. By afternoon, we arrive at Don Saynhan. After mooring, we explore the village and travel by tuk tuk into lush surroundings to visit the atmospheric Khao Cave, home to generations of bats and striking limestone formations. This evening, relax on deck, enjoy drinks at the bar, or indulge in an optional reflexology treatment before bed.

Meals:  B,L,D

On our final full day, we visit the lovely village of Pha Liep, framed by dramatic limestone mountains. Here, we discover local livelihoods — from traditional longtail boat building to a small village whiskey distillery, offering a lively glimpse into everyday Mekong culture. This afternoon, we sail onward to a secluded sandbank, our special final anchorage beneath the open sky. Tonight, celebrate the journey with a farewell cocktail reception and a romantic barbecue dinner under the stars — a perfect Mekong finale.

Meals:  B,L,D

Enjoy one last sunrise on the Mekong, with breakfast served on deck if weather allows. We arrive in Pak Lay this morning. After checking out by 9:00am, we transfer by minivan to Vientiane, arriving around midday.

Meals:  B