Heritage Line Anouvong

Morning

• Morning arrival at the Thai immigration office where the Heritage Line Anouvong team assists with immigration procedures (please see details in our embarkation guide) on both Thai and Laos sides.
• Transfer to the ship at Huay Xai pier on the Laos riverside, with luggage taken care of and available in your room.
• Settle into your room and familiarize yourself with the ship as we begin the journey.
• Sail southbound from the Thai-Lao border, observing the wide river and the captain’s careful navigation to ensure a safe passage.

Afternoon

• The first stop is Khon Teun, a modern Laotian village known for wooden sculptures and home to the Tai Lu ethnic minority.
• Experience a traditional Laotian greeting with a “Baci ceremony” performed by village elders, and witness the weaving traditions passed down through generations.
• Optional meditation session available at the nearby temple, where resident monks and novices welcome interaction.
  Enjoy a lecture by the local guide on Laotian elephants and their cultural significance

Evening

• Dinner is served in Anouvong’s elegant De-Lagree Dining Hall.
• Relax in the bar or join the outdoor cinema screening of the movie “Chang,” filmed in the region in 1927.
• Spend the first night on a secluded sandbank in the middle of the river, surrounded by tranquility.

Morning

• Wake up early to catch the breathtaking sunrise over the Mekong River. Join a revitalizing morning exercise session (Tai Chi or Yoga) on the terrace deck, surrounded by the stunning river scenery.
• After breakfast, we arrive at Pakbeng, a small riverside town that serves as a vital stop for locals traveling between Huay Xai and Luang Prabang.
• On the opposite side of the town, you’ll find Laos’ most sustainable elephant sanctuary. If we’re lucky, we may witness elephants freely strolling along the shoreline and bathing.
• Visit the sanctuary to learn more about these majestic animals and their conservation efforts.
• Enjoy lunch while admiring the picturesque riverside views from the dining room.

Afternoon

• Further down the river, we encounter the tiny village of Kok Aek, where the local Lao, Khmu, and Hmong communities have an organic garden, growing vegetables, fruits, and herbs.
• Sample the local specialty, kai paen, made with dried freshwater “seaweed” topped with sesame and vegetables.
• Relax and take in the breathtaking scenery or indulge in some spa time onboard as we continue cruising.
• We anchor near a secluded village for the night, offering an opportunity to explore the charming community.

Evening

• Experience a cultural treat as local villagers come aboard to serenade us with traditional music played on the Khene instrument, made of bamboo.
• End the day with a memorable dining experience on the terrace deck, surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature.

Morning

• Engage in a morning lecture after breakfast, gaining fascinating insights into the diverse tribes and cultural traditions along the upper Mekong.
• Reach a rural and enchanting Khmu village, where bamboo huts on stilts dot the rice fields and manual agricultural practices prevail.
• Take a leisurely walk through the village’s neighborhood, accompanied by locals who share their daily lives and agricultural methods.
• Explore a nearby waterfall, immersing yourself in the serene beauty of the surroundings while learning more about the locals’ way of life.

Afternoon

• Continue the journey downstream, basking in the golden evening sun, and potentially visit another charming riverside village before sunset.
• Discover a village inhabited by a mix of Lao Loum and Lao Theun communities (lowland and midland Laotians), known for their traditional basket weaving and an unassuming Buddhist temple.

Evening

• Anticipate a memorable culinary experience as the culinary team prepares a special farewell BBQ dinner on a picturesque sandbank.
• Delight in the company of villagers who entertain with traditional dance performances, creating a truly unique ambiance in this remote setting amidst Laos.

Morning

• Begin the day with a sumptuous breakfast before embarking on a unique activity to explore the lower Mekong from a different perspective.
• Hop into a kayak and paddle along the peacefully flowing stream, immersing yourself in the natural beauty and tranquility of the surroundings.
• Optional: Paddle to the famous Pak Ou caves, where we make a stop and disembark to meet the local “medicine man” for a jungle trek, learning about the flora and nature of the area.
• In the village, witness local weaving and discover the art of local whisky distilling.
• Trek through the “backdoor” to reach the Pak Ou Caves, limestone grottoes housing around 4,000 sacred Buddhist statues and images. (Kindly note a basic fitness level is required for the approx. 45-minute trek which is relatively easy walking but does involve some uphill terrain; guests may opt to stay on the ship to reach our next stop, the Pak Ou caves).
• Return to the ship to refresh and enjoy a delicious lunch onboard.

Afternoon

• Spend the remaining three hours sailing, during which Mr. Francis Engelmann, an expert on Laos’ cultural heritage, presents his fascinating insights on the country and Luang Prabang.
• Enjoy a meal onboard before reaching the enchanting town of Luang Prabang in the afternoon (around 15:00).
• Complete the check-out process with the assistance of the onboard team, bidding farewell and expressing gratitude for cruising with Heritage Line on the upper Mekong in Laos.

Morning

• Experience the spiritual Buddhist tradition of the morning alms round, where saffron-robed monks walk along the streets in the “Tak Bat” ceremony.
• Take a leisurely stroll through the morning market, observing the town come to life before returning to the ship for breakfast.
• Meet Mr. Francis Engelmann, a former UNESCO heritage preservation expert, who shares his knowledge of Laos’ rich cultural heritage and captivating history.
• Optional: Embark on a kayak tour on the Nam Ou River, effortlessly drifting downstream while admiring the natural beauty.

Afternoon

• Explore the renowned Pak Ou Caves, housing approximately 4,000 sacred Buddhist statues and images within two limestone grottoes.
• Encounter a local “medicine man” in the nearby village, embarking on a jungle trek to learn about the area’s flora and nature. (Kindly note a basic fitness level is required for the approx. 45 min trek, relatively easy walking downhill with some short uphill terrain. Guests can also skip the hike and return to the ship moored in front of the Pak Ou caves.)
• Witness traditional weaving and the art of local whisky distillation in the village.
• If time permits, visit another charming riverside village, home to a mix of Lao Loum and Lao Theun communities (lowland and midland Laotians), who follow beliefs in ancestorship and nature.

Evening

• Anticipate a special culinary event as the culinary team prepares a BBQ dinner on a peaceful sandbank, accompanied by traditional dance and music performances by local villagers.
• Enjoy the unique atmosphere of dining on a remote sandbank in the heart of Laos, creating lasting memories with newfound friends.

Morning

• Participate in a lecture by a local expert, gaining insights into the cultural diversity of the tribes residing along the upper Mekong.
• Visit a rural village inhabited by the Khmu people, taking a leisurely walk through the surrounding neighborhood and observing the manual agricultural practices performed in simple bamboo huts.

Afternoon

• Continue cruising upriver, reaching a secluded sandbank spot in the afternoon.
• Encounter the ethnic Lao, Khmu, and Hmong villagers of Kok Aek, who maintain an organic garden by the riverside, showcasing their gardening achievements and offering a taste of the local specialty, kai paen.

Evening

• Stay overnight at this pleasant location, with the option of arranging a meditation session in the village temple (limited availability).
• Enjoy dinner in Heritage Line Anouvong’s elegant De-Lagree Dining Hall, followed by the opportunity to relax in the lounge or join an outdoor cinema experience on the open terrace deck, featuring the Laotian film “Chang,” shot in the region in 1927.
• Experience a night’s sleep on the tranquil mid-river, surrounded by serene surroundings in the heart of nature.

Morning

• Witness the magical moment of the sun’s first rays on the river, and early risers can join the daily morning exercise on the terrace deck, either Tai Chi or Yoga.
• After breakfast, listen to a lecture by our local expert guide about Laotian elephants, their cultural significance in the past, and their current endangered status, in preparation for our upcoming encounter with these magnificent animals.
• Enjoy the morning and lunchtime as we continue sailing towards Pakbeng.

Afternoon

• Upon reaching Pakbeng in the early afternoon, observe the small town situated halfway between Houay Xay and Luang Prabang, where locals often stop during their river travels.
• Visit the country’s most sustainably managed elephant sanctuary located opposite the town, where former logging elephants now live in peace and safety. Learn more about these majestic creatures and the sanctuary’s commitment to ecotourism and sustainability.
• Cross the river and explore Pakbeng, including a visit to a hill-top temple that offers fantastic river views.
• Continue cruising, taking in the breathtaking scenery or indulging in relaxation at the onboard spa.

Evening

• Anchor at a protected area mid-river, savor an aperitif on the open deck, and prepare for the final dinner onboard.
• Experience a gala and farewell dinner in al-fresco style on the terrace deck, creating cherished memories with newfound friends amid the captivating sights and soothing sounds of nature.

Morning

• Start the day with a morning exercise and enjoy the last sunrise aboard.
• Indulge in a leisurely and relaxed brunch, which can be served on the terrace deck as we continue our voyage towards the Thai-Lao border.
• Witness the junction with the Nam Tha River, one of the major tributaries of the Mekong, as the ship passes by.
• Appreciate the quiet sailing hours, observing the changing river scenery and the captain’s skill in navigating through potential obstacles.
• Participate in a Lao cooking class, learning how to prepare delicious local snacks and dishes.

Afternoon

• Enjoy the remaining cruising time until reaching Houay Xay (approximately 15:00), with the freedom to engage in activities of your choice.
• Upon arrival and check-out, receive assistance with luggage and transfer to the Lao-Thai border.
• Receive support for the border crossing process before bidding farewell on the Thai side in front of the immigration building.

We thank you very much for cruising with Heritage Line Anouvong on the upper Mekong in Laos and wish you a pleasant onward journey.

(Please note that we can arrange transfers to Chiang Rai city or airport or to a resort/hotel in Chiang Sean if you extend your stay in the Golden Triangle on the Thai side.)

Morning

• Morning arrival at the Thai immigration office where the Heritage Line Anouvong team assists with immigration procedures (please see details in our embarkation guide) on both Thai and Laos sides.
• Transfer to the ship at Huay Xai pier on the Laos riverside, with luggage taken care of and available in your room.
• Settle into your room and familiarize yourself with the ship as we begin the journey.
• Sail southbound from the Thai-Lao border, observing the wide river and the captain’s careful navigation to ensure a safe passage.

Afternoon

• The first stop is Khon Teun, a modern Laotian village known for wooden sculptures and home to the Tai Lu ethnic minority.
• Experience a traditional Laotian greeting with a “Baci ceremony” performed by village elders, and witness the weaving traditions passed down through generations.
• Optional meditation session available at the nearby temple, where resident monks and novices welcome interaction.
  Enjoy a lecture by the local guide on Laotian elephants and their cultural significance

Evening

• Dinner is served in Anouvong’s elegant De-Lagree Dining Hall.
• Relax in the bar or join the outdoor cinema screening of the movie “Chang,” filmed in the region in 1927.
• Spend the first night on a secluded sandbank in the middle of the river, surrounded by tranquility.

Morning

• Wake up early to catch the breathtaking sunrise over the Mekong River. Join a revitalizing morning exercise session (Tai Chi or Yoga) on the terrace deck, surrounded by the stunning river scenery.
• After breakfast, we arrive at Pakbeng, a small riverside town that serves as a vital stop for locals traveling between Huay Xai and Luang Prabang.
• On the opposite side of the town, you’ll find Laos’ most sustainable elephant sanctuary. If we’re lucky, we may witness elephants freely strolling along the shoreline and bathing.
• Visit the sanctuary to learn more about these majestic animals and their conservation efforts.
• Enjoy lunch while admiring the picturesque riverside views from the dining room.

Afternoon

• Further down the river, we encounter the tiny village of Kok Aek, where the local Lao, Khmu, and Hmong communities have an organic garden, growing vegetables, fruits, and herbs.
• Sample the local specialty, kai paen, made with dried freshwater “seaweed” topped with sesame and vegetables.
• Relax and take in the breathtaking scenery or indulge in some spa time onboard as we continue cruising.
• We anchor near a secluded village for the night, offering an opportunity to explore the charming community.

Evening

• Experience a cultural treat as local villagers come aboard to serenade us with traditional music played on the Khene instrument, made of bamboo.
• End the day with a memorable dining experience on the terrace deck, surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature.

Morning

• Enjoy breakfast followed by a morning lecture, providing insights into Laotian culture and the diverse tribes residing along the upper Mekong.
• Spend the rest of the morning at your leisure as we sail through lush vegetation and picturesque hills.

Afternoon

• After lunch, embark on a unique activity and kayak along the lower Mekong, immersing yourself in the peaceful flow of the river and enjoying the natural beauty that surrounds you.
• Optionally, paddle to the famous Pak Ou caves, a highlight of the trip.
• Stop near Pak Ou and go ashore to meet a local “medicine man” who will guide you on a jungle trek, sharing interesting facts about the flora and nature of the area. You may also observe local weaving and learn about whiskey distilling. (Kindly note a basic fitness level is required for the approx. 45-minute trek, which is relatively easy walking but does involve some uphill terrain; guests may opt to stay on the ship to reach our next stop, the Pak Ou caves).
• Reach the Pak Ou caves, housing approximately 4,000 sacred Buddhist statues and images. Explore the upper cave and descend approximately 200 steps to the lower, more impressive grotto.
• Return to the ship to refresh and enjoy lunch. Continue sailing for approximately three hours, during which Mr. Francis Engelmann, an expert on heritage preservation, shares his knowledge and expertise on Laos and Luang Prabang’s cultural heritage and history.

Evening

• Arrive in the enchanting town of Luang Prabang in the early evening.
• Dinner is served onboard, followed by the opportunity to experience the captivating charms of the old town on a leisurely stroll through its small streets.

Morning

• Begin the day with breakfast and embark on a guided walking tour in ancient Luang Prabang, a unique and charming city in Southeast Asia. (almost flat terrain, easy walking, tour duration about 3.5 hours including refreshment stops).
• Explore the old town and its peninsula, where the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers converge, discovering the distinct architecture and hearing captivating stories about the houses and landmarks along the way.
• Enjoy a leisurely stroll through small roads and streets adorned with antique structures and mango trees, immersing yourself in the ambiance of bygone eras.
• Experience a “Lao Tea Break” at Lamache, a house that once belonged to noble families and was the royal family’s ice cream supplier. Indulge in Lao coffee, herbal tea, traditional snacks, and artisan ice cream.
• Return to this luxury cruise Mekong for lunch and refreshments before continuing the exploration in the afternoon.

Afternoon

• Visit the former Royal Palace, now the National Museum, showcasing fascinating local art and exhibits that were once part of the Lao royal family’s collection.
• Enjoy some free time to wander around the city center or relax at a street café, embracing the laid-back atmosphere of Luang Prabang.

Evening

• In the early evening, savor a sunset aperitif on the terrace deck accompanied by a classical local dance or music performance.
• Venture out for an evening dining experience at one of the city’s exquisite venues, immersing yourself in a distinctively Lao-style ambiance.
• After dinner, you have the option to explore the night market or return to the vessel for the remainder of the evening.

Morning

• Wake up early to witness the spiritual Buddhist tradition of the morning alms round, where saffron-robed monks receive offerings in Luang Prabang. Experience the serene procession before exploring the lively morning market and returning to the ship for breakfast.
• Bid farewell to Luang Prabang and continue the downstream journey on the Mekong River.
  Visit the innovative and socially responsible Laos Buffalo Dairy Farm, where local dairy products like cheese, ice cream, and yogurt are made and distributed to the markets.
• Explore the magnificent Kuang Si waterfall, known for its cascading turquoise waters. Take a leisurely hike through the natural park and enjoy a refreshing swim in the natural pools at the waterfall’s base.

Afternoon

• The Heritage Line Anouvong cruise carries on towards the nation’s famous dam and hydroelectric power plant.
• Learn about Laos’ energy production and its role in the country’s economy through an informative lecture before reaching the Xayaburi Hydroelectric Dam.
• Experience passing through two ship locks, descending approximately 30 meters, and take a short guided tour of the impressive dam structure.

Evening

• Sail further into the evening and anchor near a sandbank on the southern side of the dam.
• Enjoy cocktails with the sand beneath your feet.

Morning

• Start the day with morning exercise options like Tai Chi or yoga on the terrace, followed by breakfast.
• Embark on a thrilling long-tail boat ride upstream along the lush jungle of the Nam Fuang River. Learn about the local tribes residing in the area and make a stop to explore their fascinating jungle life.
• Alternatively, you can take a leisurely stroll through the charming village of Khok Akha, located on the riverside plateau. Enjoy panoramic views of the meandering Mekong River and capture memorable photos.
• Continue sailing along the rocky shorelines and navigate through narrow channels.

Afternoon

• Visit Don Saynhan village and take a short local “Tuk Tuk” ride to explore the Khao Cave, known for its large bat population and the potent fertilizer it provides to the village.
• Discover the stunning stalagmites and stalactites inside the cave.

Evening

• Return to the ship and cruise until reaching Pak Lay village, where we will spend the night.
• Enjoy an open-air cinema experience under the stars on the terrace deck after dinner, featuring a classic movie.

Morning

• Start the morning with a hearty breakfast to prepare for an exciting kayaking excursion.
• Explore the calm and shallow waters of the Mekong River, dotted with small sandy islands, providing an ideal opportunity for independent exploration.
• Sail along the Thai-Lao border, with a large Buddha statue welcoming us from the opposite shore.

Afternoon

• After lunch, visit Phalat village, a quaint settlement overlooking the Mekong, within sight of Thailand.
• Take a local “Tuk Tuk” ride to a nearby chopstick factory and gain insights into the production process and craftsmanship behind perfectly round and uniform chopsticks.
• Continue to a deserted sandbank, where the ship will anchor for the final night.

Evening

• Experience a memorable culinary delight as the kitchen team prepares a barbecue dinner on the sandbank, creating a remote and romantic ambiance for a delightful evening.

• Join the daily morning exercise session (Tai Chi or Yoga) on the terrace deck, taking advantage of the magnificent river backdrop.
• Enjoy a leisurely breakfast as the ship continues its voyage towards Vientiane, the capital of Laos.
• During the morning, a local guide provides a lecture on the history of Lao royalty, with a special focus on King Anouvong, after whom the vessel is named.
• Around midday, the ship arrives in Vientiane. The crew is available to assist with check-out and luggage handling.

We thank you very much for cruising with Heritage Line Anouvong on the upper Mekong in Laos and bid you farewell wishing you a pleasant onward journey.

Morning

• Guests are welcomed in the early morning at the ship docked at the pier in Vientiane.
• Check-in assistance and luggage handling are provided by the Heritage Line Anouvong team, ensuring a smooth start to the journey.
• After settling into the cabins, the ship departs from Vientiane, embarking on a leisurely exploration of the Laotian upper Mekong.
• Enjoy a full day of sailing, allowing for relaxation and contemplation amidst the picturesque countryside.
• Indulge in a delightful brunch served on the terrace deck or inside the lounge, catering to personal preferences.

Afternoon

• A local expert guide delivers a lecture on the history of Lao royalty, with a special emphasis on King Anouvong, the vessel’s namesake.
• Take this opportunity to unwind in the comfortable cabins or public lounge, or opt for a wellness treatment at the ship’s spa area.

Evening

• Dinner is served in the ship’s elegant De-Lagree Dining Hall tonight.
• Following dinner, guests can choose to spend time in the lounge or enjoy an open-air cinema experience on the terrace deck under the stars.

Morning

• Wake up early to witness the stunning sunrise over the Mekong River in Laos.
• Join the daily morning exercise session (Tai Chi or Yoga) on the terrace deck, taking advantage of the magnificent river backdrop.
• Visit Phalat village, near the Thai border, and take a local “Tok Tok” ride to a nearby chopstick factory to learn about the production process.
• Sail along the Thai-Lao border, with a prominent Buddha statue on the opposite shore.
• Enjoy lunch on board as the ship glides through a calm and shallow stretch of the Mekong, dotted with small sandy islands.

Afternoon

• Explore the river at your own pace with a kayak excursion.
• Moor at a sandbank in the middle of Laos for a special evening event.
• Delight in an aperitivo during sunset

Evening

• Enjoy a memorable long-table dining experience set up mid-river.
• Continue the outdoor enjoyment with an open-air cinema on the terrace deck, featuring a popular classic movie.

Morning

• Enjoy a leisurely morning as the ship sails upstream, providing an opportunity to observe life along the shores of the Mekong River.
• Pass by Pak Lay, a town on the west bank that serves as the last significant settlement with access to a national road along the river until reaching Luang Prabang, which is two days and nearly 200 km away.
• Note the proximity of Nam Phouy National Biodiversity Conservation Area (approx. 10-15 km from the river) to Pak Lay, home to the largest wild elephant population in Laos.

Afternoon

• Make a stop at Don Saynhan village and take a short ride in a local “Tuk Tuk” to visit the renowned Khao Cave, inhabited by a large bat population and a source of potent fertilizer for the village.
• Explore the cave and admire the stalagmites and stalactites.

Evening

• Resume the cruise and find a serene location for the evening mooring.
• If weather permits, dinner will be set up al-fresco style on the terrace, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the serendipity of Laotian surroundings.
• Alternatively, dinner will be served in the restaurant.

Morning

• Choose between a sunrise Tai Chi/Yoga session or a peaceful morning in your room as the sun gently rises.
• Heritage Line Anouvong sails north towards Laos’ famous hydroelectric power plant.
• Join an engaging lecture on Laos’ energy role in the economy and its potential as Southeast Asia’s battery.

Afternoon

• After lunch, opt for an adventurous long-tail boat ride along the scenic Nam Fuang River, exploring the jungle and learning about local tribes.
• Alternatively, stroll through the riverside village of Khok Akha, known for its stunning views of the meandering Mekong.
• Arrive at the Xayaburi Hydroelectric Dam in the late afternoon. Experience the ship passing through two ship locks, ascending by approximately 30 meters. Enjoy a guided tour of this impressive structure.

Evening

• Moor in a peaceful section of the river, several kilometers upstream from the dam, for the evening.

Morning

• Start your morning at your own pace, indulging in sunrise Tai Chi/Yoga or just snooze a bit longer in your room as the sun gently wakes you up.
• Heritage Line Anouvong sails further north towards the nation’s famous hydroelectric power plant.
• During the morning hours you should join our interesting lecture about the role of energy in Laos’ economy and how the country is set to become Southeast Asia’s battery.

Afternoon

• Embark on a visit to the Laos Buffalo Dairy Farm, an innovative and socially responsible establishment.
• Witness the local production of dairy products like cheeses, ice cream, and yogurt, which have gained popularity in Asia and Laos.
• Explore the breathtaking Kuang Si waterfall, known for its turquoise cascades. Take a leisurely hike through the natural park surrounding the waterfall and take a refreshing swim in the inviting natural pools.
• Return to the ship and set sail toward Luang Prabang, with an anticipated arrival in the early evening.

Evening

• After dinner, take an enchanting self-guided promenade through the narrow streets of Luang Prabang’s old town, soaking in its captivating charm.

Morning

• Begin the day with breakfast and embark on a guided walking tour in ancient Luang Prabang, a unique and charming city in Southeast Asia. (almost flat terrain, easy walking, tour duration about 3.5 hours including refreshment stops).
• Explore the old town and its peninsula, where the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers converge, discovering the distinct architecture and hearing captivating stories about the houses and landmarks along the way.
• Enjoy a leisurely stroll through small roads and streets adorned with antique structures and mango trees, immersing yourself in the ambiance of bygone eras.
• Experience a “Lao Tea Break” at Lamache, a house that once belonged to noble families and was the royal family’s ice cream supplier. Indulge in Lao coffee, herbal tea, traditional snacks, and artisan ice cream.
• Return to this luxury cruise Mekong for lunch and refreshments before continuing the exploration in the afternoon.

Afternoon

• Visit the former Royal Palace, now the National Museum, showcasing fascinating local art and exhibits that were once part of the Lao royal family’s collection.
• Enjoy some free time to wander around the city center or relax at a street café, embracing the laid-back atmosphere of Luang Prabang.

Evening

• In the early evening, savor a sunset aperitif on the terrace deck accompanied by a classical local dance or music performance.
• Venture out for an evening dining experience at one of the city’s exquisite venues, immersing yourself in a distinctively Lao-style ambiance.
• After dinner, you have the option to explore the night market or return to the vessel for the remainder of the evening.

Morning

• Experience the spiritual Buddhist tradition of the morning alms round, where saffron-robed monks walk along the streets in the “Tak Bat” ceremony.
• Take a leisurely stroll through the morning market, observing the town come to life before returning to the ship for breakfast.
• Meet Mr. Francis Engelmann, a former UNESCO heritage preservation expert, who shares his knowledge of Laos’ rich cultural heritage and captivating history.
• Optional: Embark on a kayak tour on the Nam Ou River, effortlessly drifting downstream while admiring the natural beauty.

Afternoon

• Explore the renowned Pak Ou Caves, housing approximately 4,000 sacred Buddhist statues and images within two limestone grottoes.
• Encounter a local “medicine man” in the nearby village, embarking on a jungle trek to learn about the area’s flora and nature. (Kindly note a basic fitness level is required for the approx. 45 min trek, relatively easy walking downhill with some short uphill terrain. Guests can also skip the hike and return to the ship moored in front of the Pak Ou caves.)
• Witness traditional weaving and the art of local whisky distillation in the village.
• If time permits, visit another charming riverside village, home to a mix of Lao Loum and Lao Theun communities (lowland and midland Laotians), who follow beliefs in ancestorship and nature.

Evening

• Anticipate a special culinary event as the culinary team prepares a BBQ dinner on a peaceful sandbank, accompanied by traditional dance and music performances by local villagers.
• Enjoy the unique atmosphere of dining on a remote sandbank in the heart of Laos, creating lasting memories with newfound friends.

Morning

• Participate in a lecture by a local expert, gaining insights into the cultural diversity of the tribes residing along the upper Mekong.
• Visit a rural village inhabited by the Khmu people, taking a leisurely walk through the surrounding neighborhood and observing the manual agricultural practices performed in simple bamboo huts.

Afternoon

• Continue cruising upriver, reaching a secluded sandbank spot in the afternoon.
• Encounter the ethnic Lao, Khmu, and Hmong villagers of Kok Aek, who maintain an organic garden by the riverside, showcasing their gardening achievements and offering a taste of the local specialty, kai paen.

Evening

• Stay overnight at this pleasant location, with the option of arranging a meditation session in the village temple (limited availability).
• Enjoy dinner in Heritage Line Anouvong’s elegant De-Lagree Dining Hall, followed by the opportunity to relax in the lounge or join an outdoor cinema experience on the open terrace deck, featuring the Laotian film “Chang,” shot in the region in 1927.
• Experience a night’s sleep on the tranquil mid-river, surrounded by serene surroundings in the heart of nature.

Morning

• Witness the magical moment of the sun’s first rays on the river, and early risers can join the daily morning exercise on the terrace deck, either Tai Chi or Yoga.
• After breakfast, listen to a lecture by our local expert guide about Laotian elephants, their cultural significance in the past, and their current endangered status, in preparation for our upcoming encounter with these magnificent animals.
• Enjoy the morning and lunchtime as we continue sailing towards Pakbeng.

Afternoon

• Upon reaching Pakbeng in the early afternoon, observe the small town situated halfway between Houay Xay and Luang Prabang, where locals often stop during their river travels.
• Visit the country’s most sustainably managed elephant sanctuary located opposite the town, where former logging elephants now live in peace and safety. Learn more about these majestic creatures and the sanctuary’s commitment to ecotourism and sustainability.
• Cross the river and explore Pakbeng, including a visit to a hill-top temple that offers fantastic river views.
• Continue cruising, taking in the breathtaking scenery or indulging in relaxation at the onboard spa.

Evening

• Anchor at a protected area mid-river, savor an aperitif on the open deck, and prepare for the final dinner onboard.
• Experience a gala and farewell dinner in al-fresco style on the terrace deck, creating cherished memories with newfound friends amid the captivating sights and soothing sounds of nature.

Morning

• Start the day with a morning exercise and enjoy the last sunrise aboard.
• Indulge in a leisurely and relaxed brunch, which can be served on the terrace deck as we continue our voyage towards the Thai-Lao border.
• Witness the junction with the Nam Tha River, one of the major tributaries of the Mekong, as the ship passes by.
• Appreciate the quiet sailing hours, observing the changing river scenery and the captain’s skill in navigating through potential obstacles.
• Participate in a Lao cooking class, learning how to prepare delicious local snacks and dishes.

Afternoon

• Enjoy the remaining cruising time until reaching Houay Xay (approximately 15:00), with the freedom to engage in activities of your choice.
• Upon arrival and check-out, receive assistance with luggage and transfer to the Lao-Thai border.
• Receive support for the border crossing process before bidding farewell on the Thai side in front of the immigration building.

We thank you very much for cruising with Heritage Line Anouvong on the upper Mekong in Laos and wish you a pleasant onward journey.

(Please note that we can arrange transfers to Chaing Rai city or airport or to a resort/hotel in Chiang Sean if you extend your stay in the Golden Triangle on the Thai side.)