MEKONG CRUISES
Authentic Mekong River Cruises in Laos Since 1999
THE UNIQUE MEKONG RIVER CRUISES
Discovering the wonders of the Mekong since 1999
For over two decades, we have been creating unforgettable journeys along the legendary Mekong River, connecting Huay Xai on the Thai border to the charming UNESCO World Heritage city of Luang Prabang in Laos. Our Mekong cruises in Laos offer a truly authentic slow boat experience through one of Southeast Asia’s most pristine waterways.
Step aboard and discover a region rich in colour and steeped in history, largely untouched by the modern world. Whether you’re looking for a slow boat to Luang Prabang or a Huay Xai to Luang Prabang boat journey, your Mekong adventure starts here.
2-DAY CRUISE WITH LODGE OVERNIGHT
FROM
182$ / passenger
2 Days / 1 Night
Bungalow at Luang Say Lodge
The Journey Begins
An adventure on the mekong in three stops
From Huay Xai to Luang Prabang, or in reverse, our laos river cruise itineraries invite you to discover Laos from the water. Whether for a single day or a two-day slow boat Mekong voyage with an overnight stop in Pakbeng, enjoy a journey blending spectacular scenery, the gentle pace of life, and authentic experiences.
The Gateway to Laos
Houayxay
Located on the eastern bank of the Mekong, facing the Thai town of Chiang Khong, Huay Xai is the capital of Bokeo Province. Its quiet charm, French colonial architecture and Buddhist temples make it a perfect introduction to Lao culture.
It is here, on the banks of the river, that your adventure begins aboard our traditional teak boats. Before boarding your Huay Xai to Luang Prabang boat, take time to discover Wat Chom Khao Manilat, perched on its hilltop, or wander through the local markets.
Not to be missed
Not to be missed
◆ Wat Chom Khao Manilat — 19th-century wooden temple
◆ Fort Carnot — Remnant of French colonial history
◆ Marché du matin — Authentic local immersion
◆ Réserve de Bokeo — Black gibbon sanctuary
Province
Bokeo
Population
~17 000
Altitude
370 m
The Jungle Riverside Refuge
Pakbeng
Halfway between Huay Xai and Luang Prabang, Pakbeng is a riverside village clinging to a hillside where the Beng River flows into the Mekong. Far from the bustle, it is a timeless haven where silence is broken only by birdsong and the gentle lapping of the river.
This is where our Luang Say Lodge is located — an exclusive eco-lodge where travellers spend the night during our two-day mekong river cruise itineraries. Its wooden bungalows, organic garden and breathtaking views over the Mekong offer a rare moment of communion with nature.
Unique experiences
◆ Luang Say Lodge — Our exclusive eco-lodge
◆ Villages Khamu — Encounters with ethnic minorities
◆ Marché du matin — Local flavours and colours
Province
Oudomxay
Population
~3 000
Type
River village
The Spiritual Heart of Laos
Luang Prabang
Former royal capital of Laos, Luang Prabang has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995. Nestled at the confluence of the Mekong and the Nam Khan, it gracefully combines gilded Buddhist temples, French colonial architecture and living traditions.
At dawn, hundreds of monks in saffron robes file silently through the streets for the Tak Bat ceremony. In the evening, night markets light up and the alleyways come alive with a thousand scents. This is also where our boutique hotel, the Maison Dalabua, is located, surrounded by lotus ponds. For those taking the slow boat to Luang Prabang, arriving by river offers an unforgettable first impression of this magical city.
Must-sees
Must-sees
◆ Wat Xieng Thong — The most iconic of the royal temples
◆ Mont Phousi — Panoramic sunset views
◆ Cascades de Kuang Si — Turquoise pools in the heart of the jungle
◆ Cérémonie du Tak Bat — Morning alms-giving to monks
Statut
UNESCO
Population
~56 000
Temples
+30
WHAT OUR GUESTS SAY
Real guests · Real reviews
Our Fleet & Amenities
The onboard experience
The onboard experience
Panoramic Views
Open-air covered decks offering stunning 360-degree views of the spectacular Mekong gorges.
Authentic Cuisine
Savour freshly prepared traditional Lao dishes alongside international fare, served on board.
Comfort
Spacious seating, relaxing daybeds, and well-maintained Western-style facilities.
Expert Guides
Passionate local guides accompany you, ready to share the rich history and legends of the river.
WILDERNESS WONDER
Luang Say Lodge: Our refuge in Pakbeng
Perched above the majestic Mekong River in Pak Beng, the Luang Say Lodge is a tranquil retreat where nature, culture, and comfort come together. Built in 1998 and set across four hectares of beautifully landscaped gardens, the lodge reflects the timeless charm of traditional Lao architecture while offering a peaceful escape between the river and the mountains.
Stay in one of 20 spacious teak and rosewood bungalows, thoughtfully designed to blend with the surrounding landscape and provide stunning views of the Mekong. Wander along wooden pathways through lush gardens, savour authentic Lao cuisine prepared with locally sourced ingredients, and experience the warm hospitality that has made the lodge a beloved stop on Mekong journeys for over two decades.
Whether as part of a Mekong cruise or a destination in itself, Luang Say Lodge offers an authentic and unforgettable immersion into the natural beauty and serenity of northern Laos.
