Pandaw Laos Cruise Mekong River

Afternoon

• Guests are advised to arrive at the embarkation point at 12:30. Upon arrival, guests will be warmly welcomed by our staff and will have the opportunity to meet fellow travelers.
• Before the tour of Vientiane begins, we will serve a delicious lunch with local specialties.
• Our experienced tour guide will introduce the history of the city and the significance of each site.
• After lunch, we will explore the beautiful city of Vientiane and discover its hidden gems. The itinerary includes visits to several notable attractions, such as Pha That Luang Stupa, Sisaket Temple, the President's Hall, Wat Prakeo Temple, and the Phatouxay Monument. Each of these locations offers a unique insight into the rich cultural history of the region, with fascinating stories and historical significance waiting to be discovered by visitors.

Night

• Afterward, guests will set sail late afternoon, and enjoy a welcome dinner on board
• Spend the night near Vientiane.

NOTE: From December 2022 to March 2023, the RV Pandaw Cruise in Laos will operate a low water itinerary due to the low water levels around Vientiane. As a result, the ship will be unable to sail into Vientiane, and alternative river transportation will be provided, along with overnight stays in a hotel during the time spent in Vientiane.

Morning:

• Cruise upstream on the Mekong River, you will be surrounded by lush jungle scenery and tiny riverside villages, making for a serene and picturesque journey. Have the opportunity to attend an engaging morning presentation on the Lao language.

Afternoon:

• After a morning full of beautiful scenery and learning, take some time to relax on the upper deck. Enjoy an afternoon cooking demonstration, where you will learn how to prepare delicious Lao dishes.
• This is the perfect opportunity to unwind and enjoy the calm surroundings of the Mekong River.

Night

• As the sun sets, the boat will arrive in Ban Xanakham to moor overnight, providing a peaceful and tranquil setting for a good night's rest. Cruise upstream on the Mekong River, passing through lush jungle scenery and tiny riverside villages.

• Take a leisurely stroll around the charming French administrative town of Pak Lai. This town is known for its numerous colonial buildings, which stand as a testament to its rich history. If you happen to be visiting the town in February, you're in for a treat, as Pak Lai is home to the largest elephant festival in South East Asia. This exciting festival features a parade of decorated elephants, cultural performances, and delicious local food, making it a must-see event for anyone visiting the town during this time of the year.
• After that, visit the bustling local market and immerse ourselves in the lively atmosphere of the town.

Morning:

• During the morning, guests will have the opportunity to visit a Khamo tribal village and take a walking tour. Experience the local culture and learn about their traditional way of life. See how the locals make their living. Learn how they cope with the challenges of living in such a remote area.

Afternoon:

• In the afternoon, we will travel to the Xanyaburi Hydro Electric Power Plant. This plant is one of the largest hydroelectric power plants in Southeast Asia and provides a significant amount of electricity to the region. Here, we will learn about the process of generating electricity from water and the technology behind it. We'll see the turbines and generators in action and witness the power of nature harnessed for human use.

Night:

• Enjoy tasty local dishes and stay overnight on cruise

Morning:

• Begin your day by delving deeper into the handicrafts of Laos. Start at Ock Pop Tok, a remarkable social enterprise dedicated to empowering women from local weaving villages through sustainable employment and training.
• Immerse yourself in the art of traditional weaving, learning about the intricate techniques and cultural significance behind these exquisite creations.

Afternoon:

• Continue your exploration of Laos' rich cultural heritage at TAEC (Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre). Gain a deeper understanding of the country's musical traditions as you discover a diverse array of musical instruments on display.
• Enjoy a delightful lunch on board the ship, savoring the flavors of the region while cruising along the Mekong River.
• Set sail toward Ban Chan, where a captivating pottery workshop awaits. Engage in a hands-on pottery demonstration, guided by skilled artisans who will reveal the secrets of their craft.

Evening:

• As the day draws to a close, embark on a serene sunset cruise on the Mekong River. Admire the enchanting vistas of Luang Prabang from the water, capturing the city's picturesque beauty. Return to the ship and spend the night moored in the heart of town, surrounded by the tranquil ambiance of Luang Prabang.

Morning:

• Start your day with an enchanting early morning walking tour to witness a sacred tradition in Luang Prabang. Observe the alms offerings as hundreds of monks make their solemn procession through the city. Experience the serene and spiritual ambiance that surrounds this daily ritual.

Afternoon:

• After a satisfying breakfast, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the morning market. Engage with local vendors and discover an array of fresh produce, handicrafts, and cultural delights.
• Embark on a captivating city tour of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its well-preserved heritage. Hop on tuk-tuks and explore the city's treasures, including Buddhist temples, libraries, and the majestic royal palace. Marvel at the architectural splendor and rich cultural heritage that permeates every corner.

Evening:

• Indulge in the freedom of the afternoon to further explore the beauty and unique atmosphere of Luang Prabang. Take your time to wander through the charming streets, immerse yourself in the local culture, or simply relax and soak in the captivating ambiance of this enchanting city. Embrace the tranquility and charm that make Luang Prabang a truly remarkable destination.

Morning:

• Enjoy a leisurely morning in the captivating city of Luang Prabang. Take your time to relax, explore the local surroundings, or engage in activities of your choice, immersing yourself in the unique atmosphere this city has to offer.

Afternoon:

• Embark on an exciting sightseeing adventure in the afternoon, as you board a local boat to explore the remarkable Pak Ou Caves. These caves, nestled amidst breathtaking limestone cliffs, serve as a revered Buddhist sanctuary. Marvel at the natural beauty and spiritual significance of this sacred place.

• Visit the Whisky village and gain insight into the production process of local Laos whisky. Learn about the traditional methods used and witness the craftsmanship behind this cultural delicacy. Additionally, take the opportunity to browse and shop for locally produced handicrafts, supporting the local artisans and taking home meaningful souvenirs.

Evening:

• As the day draws to a close, savor the enchanting ambiance during your return journey on the boat. Embrace the tranquility of the Mekong River as you sail back to Luang Prabang. Reflect on the memorable experiences and cultural encounters you've had throughout the day, and prepare for a restful evening in this captivating city.

Morning:

• Embark on a delightful day of sailing upstream along the majestic Mekong River. As you cruise through its tranquil waters, take a morning stroll through the charming Ban Ton village. Immerse yourself in the local surroundings, interact with the friendly residents, and gain insights into their way of life.

Afternoon:

• As the day progresses, continue your journey along the Mekong, appreciating the scenic beauty that unfolds around you. Witness the changing landscapes and immerse yourself in the serenity of the river.

Evening:

• As the sun sets, your ship will gracefully moor alongside a picturesque sandbank. Here, a special riverside barbecue and cocktail party await you. Indulge in a delectable feast, savoring the flavors of local cuisine, and enjoy refreshing beverages amidst the tranquil riverside setting.

• To add a touch of magic to the evening, participate in the tradition of lighting paper lanterns with the crew. As the lanterns illuminate the night sky, experience the enchantment and embrace the sense of wonder. Additionally, engage in a lively dance, immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of remote Laos.

• After a memorable evening of celebration and cultural exchange, retire to your comfortable accommodation on the ship, cherishing the memories created throughout the day's journey.

Morning:

• Today, we have the opportunity to explore the incredible world of elephants in Laos, famously known as 'The land of a million elephants.' Our destination is a rescue sanctuary dedicated to preserving these majestic creatures and offering sustainable employment for the Mahouts, who were once responsible for training and riding them. Witness the important conservation efforts being undertaken to protect these beautiful animals and learn about their significance in Laotian culture.

Afternoon:

• After our inspiring visit to the elephant sanctuary, we continue our adventure with a leisurely walk through the charming Ban Pak Sith Khummu village. Immerse yourself in the local atmosphere, interact with the welcoming villagers, and gain insights into their daily lives and traditional customs. Explore the village's unique features, appreciate its natural beauty, and connect with the warm-hearted locals.

Evening:

• As the day draws to a close, return to the comfort of your accommodation, reflecting on the enriching experiences of the day. Take the time to appreciate the memories created and the profound impact of the sanctuary visit, as well as the cultural exchange in Ban Pak Sith Khummu village. Prepare for a peaceful evening, rejuvenating yourself for the adventures that lie ahead.

Morning:

• Today marks the final leg of our upstream journey as we set sail toward the enchanting town of Huayxay. As we navigate the Mekong River, soak in the serene beauty of the surroundings and reflect on the incredible experiences we've had throughout our voyage. Marvel at the landscapes and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the river.

Afternoon:

• As we approach the border between Laos and Thailand, we cross over via the iconic Thai-Laos Friendship Bridge, symbolizing the harmonious relationship between the two countries. Upon reaching Chiang Khong, we reunite with our beloved Pandaw vessel. Take this opportunity to embark on a ship tour, exploring its intricacies and learning more about its fascinating history. Additionally, our skilled Pandaw Chef will delight you with a fruit carving demonstration, showcasing their culinary artistry.

Evening:

• To celebrate our final evening together, a memorable farewell awaits us on board. Indulge in a delightful array of cocktails, savoring the flavors and mingling with fellow travelers.
• Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Thailand as you witness a captivating Thai traditional dance performance. Let the rhythmic movements and vibrant costumes transport you to the heart of Thai culture, creating lasting memories of your time on the Pandaw vessel. Cherish this special evening and reflect on the unforgettable journey we've shared.

• The final day of our journey begins with an early morning disembarkation in Chiang Khong. By 8.30, we bid farewell to the Pandaw vessel and embark on a group transfer to either a hotel or the airport, depending on your travel arrangements.
• As we make our way to our destination, we have a unique opportunity to explore the renowned Golden Triangle region. Along the route, we will stop and immerse ourselves in the rich history and cultural significance of this area. One of our stops includes a visit to the opium museum, where we can gain insights into the historical impact of opium production and trade.

• Our journey continues as we proceed to the vibrant cities of Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai. The approximate travel time to Chiang Rai is around 2 hours, allowing you to reach the city by approximately 15.30. For those heading to Chiang Mai, the travel time is approximately 6 hours, and you can expect to arrive in the city around 17.30. Whether you have chosen to explore the cultural wonders of Chiang Rai or the bustling city of Chiang Mai, this marks the end of our remarkable voyage through the Mekong River.