Travel through Laos and Thailand on an 8-day Mekong River-Upstream cruise aboard Anouvong. Begin in Luang Prabang, where you witness the Tak Bat ceremony, and explore the town. Board Anouvong for an in-depth journey along the Mekong, stopping at remote villages, the Pak Ou Caves, and cultural sites. Engage with diverse ethnic communities, experience a Baci ceremony, and visit an elephant sanctuary for a rare wildlife encounter. In the Golden Triangle, cruise past the borders of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos, explore local markets and visit ancient temples. Enjoy a guided elephant experience and a cultural deep dive into the region’s history. End your journey in Chiang Rai, where you can visit the Opium Museum before departure. This adventure blends culture, adventure, and relaxation for an unforgettable experience.
Highlights
Witness the sacred Tak Bat ceremony at sunrise in Luang Prabang
Explore Pak Ou Caves, home to thousands of Buddha statues
Enjoy a private elephant encounter at a jungle sanctuary in Pakbeng
Cruise the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos meet
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
Arrive in Luang Prabang and transfer to the Rosewood Luang Prabang. Settle in and make use of the hotel’s top-tier amenities. If you’re up for exploring, join a private cooking class or use a complimentary bicycle to navigate the quiet streets. Stop at a local cafe for a coffee break. In the evening, enjoy dinner at the hotel or head into town for a meal (not included) and a visit to the bustling night market.
Choose pickup from the airport, train station, or anywhere in Luang Prabang. Check-in begins at 14:00 (early check-in is available if rooms allow).
Start the day before sunrise by observing Tak Bat, a sacred tradition where monks collect food offerings from locals. Arrange transport via the hotel’s tuk-tuk and watch the quiet ceremony from a respectful distance. Afterward, return for a full breakfast. Spend the rest of the day however you prefer—take advantage of a complimentary spa treatment or simply relax. In the evening, enjoy a multi-course Laotian dinner at Manda de Lao, one of the city’s top restaurants. End your time in Luang Prabang before setting off on the next stage of your journey—a Mekong River cruise into the Golden Triangle.
After a delightful breakfast, you will be transferred to the downtown pier to embark on a four-day voyage aboard the boutique ship, Heritage Line ‘Anouvong.’ As
you sail along the Mekong River through the Golden Triangle toward Northern Thailand, and settle into your luxurious cabin before attending an insightful lecture on Laos’ diverse ethnic groups in the ship’s lounge. The first highlight of the journey is a visit to the sacred Pak Ou Caves, home to around 4,000 revered Buddhist statues. Explore the impressive lower cave before choosing from two optional excursions: an adventurous kayak tour along the tranquil Nam Ou River or a visit to the nearby village of Ban Muang Keo, renowned for its traditional silk weaving and Lao whisky distillation. The voyage then continues to the 200-year-old village of Ban Khok Phou, where the locals, part of the Lao ethnic group, practice mountain farming. The visit culminates with a traditional Baci ceremony, performed by village elders to bestow blessings upon your journey. As night falls, enjoy a welcome cocktail on an elevated sandbank, followed by a mouthwatering barbecue dinner amidst the breathtaking natural surroundings.
Start your day with a refreshing yoga session on the terrace deck before enjoying a delicious breakfast. The morning brings a stop at a picturesque village inhabited by Khmu people. Here, you can mingle and meet with different generations who are deeply rooted in the land, sustaining their livelihood through manual agriculture. In the afternoon, the journey continues to another village along the Mekong, where the Hmong, Lao Loum, and Khamo ethnic groups live in harmony. A visit to a family home provides an intimate look into the distinct histories and traditions of each group, offering a vivid complement to the insights from earlier lectures. As evening approaches, enjoy a traditional dance performance on the open deck, followed by a cozy cinema night in the lounge. The featured film, “Chiang,” which was shot in this region in 1927, will transport you back in time and set the tone for the next day’s adventure.
As the Anouvong continues its upstream journey, start your day with a post-breakfast bamboo weaving workshop. The rest of the morning is yours to enjoy
at your leisure—whether it’s indulging in the spa, working out in the gym, or simply daydreaming as the stunning scenery passes by. After lunch, the ship arrives at Pakbeng, where you’ll visit Laos’ most sustainable elephant sanctuary, nestled deep in the jungle along the riverside. In an almost pristine natural setting, you have the privilege of encountering these majestic creatures. Learn about the sanctuary’s vital work and meet elephants roaming freely in their natural habitat, offering an unforgettable wildlife experience. As the ship continues its northbound course, it will anchor for your final night on board. The evening concludes with a relaxed aperitif and a joyful long-table dinner on the terrace deck, where you can enjoy the serene beauty of the Mekong River one last time.
Day 6: Mekong River, Laos | Golden Triangle, Thailand | Disembark
Feel free to enjoy a leisurely morning and extend your snooze if you wish, as breakfast is kept light in anticipation of a lavish culinary brunch later. As you sail deeper into the heart of the Golden Triangle, the day is yours to unwind at your own pace. You can also join a fascinating presentation that delves into the rich and complex history of the Golden Triangle, covering the effects of colonialism, the opium trade, and the intricate roles played by Burma, Thailand, Laos, Britain, and China in shaping this region. As you prepare for the lifestyle highlight of your final day on board, a Lao cooking class will introduce you to the region’s culinary delights. This leads into a sumptuous brunch buffet, featuring an array of flavorful dishes and indulgent desserts served in the restaurant, lounge, or on the terrace deck, ensuring a relaxed dining experience up until an hour before our arrival. Upon docking, you will check out and be transferred to the Lao-Thai border, where you’ll pass through immigration. Awaiting you on the other side is staff from the Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle, ready to take you to your next luxurious destination.
After breakfast, start your day with a guided exploration of local life. Accompanied by an expert camp guide, cruise along the Mekong River in a traditional long-tail boat, venturing into the heart of the Golden Triangle where Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos meet. Immerse yourself in the vibrant local scene by traveling like a native—hopping between Songtaews and Tuk-tuks to explore bustling markets and hidden gems. Find serenity at the ancient Chedi Luang temple before returning to the resort for lunch. In the afternoon, choose to embark on another thrilling adventure: the “My Elephant & I” experience, where you’ll accompany elephants in their natural habitat for an unforgettable encounter. As the day winds down, enjoy a sunset cocktail during happy hour or indulge in a soothing treatment at the resort’s spa before savoring your final dinner of the trip.
Excursions included at the Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle can be arranged as per individual arrival or departure time. The resort concierge will consult and assist.
Day 8: Golden Triangle | Chiang Rai, Thailand | Return Home
1 Breakfast
After a relaxing breakfast, enjoy your remaining time before midday—consider visiting the intriguing Opium Museum for a final cultural highlight. When you’re ready, you will be transferred to Chiang Rai, either to the airport or the city center, marking the end of your journey.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$7,550
Rates are subject to change without notice. Book early to get the best rate.
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Deluxe Stateroom
Room Size: 20 sqm/215 sqft. Comfortable bed (Twin Bed 100 x 200 cm, Double Bed 180 x 200 cm), These gorgeous air-conditioned suites feature panoramic sliding doors that open up to a french style balcony, offering guests breathtaking views. The spacious bathroom is fully equipped with a walk-in shower and a vanity holding luxurious toiletries.
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Deluxe Executive
Room Size: 20 sqm/215 sqft. Comfortable bed (Twin Bed 100 x 200 cm, Double Bed 180 x 200 cm), These staterooms are decorated with handpicked Laotian artwork giving them an exquisite look. They also feature large windows with amazing views allowing maximum natural light to flow in the room. The gorgeous bathrooms are equipped with luxurious amenities to ensure guests enjoy their showers.
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Signature Suites
Room Size: 30 sqm/323 sqft. Comfortable bed (Double Bed 200 x 200 cm), private balcony (3 sqm). These spacious rooms come with a private balcony featuring a coffee table and chair for guests to enjoy the fantastic scenery. The vast floor-to-ceiling windows light up the room naturally, and the luxurious bathrooms feature a walk-in shower and a jacuzzi overlooking the amazing landscape.
Initial deposit is 15%, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 100 Days prior to departure by Bank transfer or credit card. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge
Kate was great to work with in the planning stage. She was prompt, helpful, and efficient. Our tour guide, Edwin, was knowledgeable and passionate. We were very happy to have traveled with Adventure Life, it made the trip easy and a true pleasure. We could concentrate on enjoying the experience rather than the details of travel.
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