Why take a cruise on the Mekong in Laos?
Taking a cruise in Laos is an ideal and comfortable option for discovering the country from the banks of the Mekong. You will have the opportunity to explore iconic sites such as the Buddhist temples of Luang Prabang or the caves of Pak Ou, all while enjoying a unique cruise. By choosing the package that suits you best, you can enjoy a superb all-inclusive experience on board a luxurious boat. Whether you are a couple, alone or with children, this cruise is suitable for everyone and will even give you the opportunity to meet people both on board and on land during visits.
What do our cruises in Laos involve?
Our cruise packages in Laos
The cruises in Laos that we offer are all-inclusive cruises that allow you to discover many sites and take part in many activities in a unique way. The concept is to book one or more cabins on a boat with a crew that will take great care of you. You share the boat with other people, but you have your own private and comfortable space. We offer 4 cruises in Laos, with different durations (from 4 to 10 days) and prices (between 3000 and 10,000 for 2 people) so that you can find the formula that suits you best.
On which boat do the cruises in Laos take place?
You will sail and live for a few days on board a traditional ship. This colonial-style ship is entirely made of exotic woodwork and offers a combination of charm and comfort. They will allow you to enjoy a rather intimate cruise, with a maximum capacity of 20 passengers on board. Each cabin is equipped with amenities and offers guests all the comfort they need during their stay. The ship's intimate restaurant, spa and café bar & lounge with terrace will allow you to relax while contemplating the landscapes of the Mekong.
What activities are available on a cruise in Laos?
During the cruise, in addition to sailing, daily activities are planned to immerse you in the culture of the region. You will explore Laotian towns and villages, Buddhist temples, caves and waterfalls while discovering the local culture in the company of your guide and through informative lectures. You will find yourself as close as possible to the local culture, with unique activities planned in the tours, such as kayaking trips, traditional dance shows, jungle hikes and many other surprises. All these activities are detailed in our cruise packages. Between two stopovers, meals are provided, followed by a few hours of navigation on the Mekong to regain your strength and let yourself be lulled by the water.
How much does a cruise on the Mekong in Laos cost?
For two people, the price may vary depending on the desired period and the chosen cabin. Here is our dead reckoning based on the program you choose for a classic cabin:
Dry season (November to April) | Rainy season (May to October) | |
| 4-day cruise | 4,233 USD | 3,386 USD |
| 8-day cruise | 9,500 USD | 8,000 USD |
| 10-day cruise | 11,000 USD | 9,500 USD |
- The price includes: visits and entrance fees to the sites according to the program, transfers, activities, meals and transfers included in the program, the presence of a tour guide, unlimited tea and coffee on the side of the boat.
- The price does not include: meals not included in the program, spa, visa fees, flights not included in the program, tips for crew and guides.
What are the must-sees on a cruise to Laos?
- Luang Prabang: This iconic Laotian city is a cultural jewel and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will have the opportunity to visit its magnificent Buddhist temples and explore its authentic atmosphere.
- The Pak Ou Caves: Nestled along the Mekong, these caves are home to thousands of Buddha statues. A fascinating visit for lovers of history and spirituality.
- Pakbeng: During your cruise, stop off at Pakbeng, a charming little town nestled on the banks of the Mekong. A unique opportunity to visit the nearby elephant sanctuary, fully committed to the principles of ecotourism and sustainability. Here, you can observe these majestic creatures up close, learn more about their conservation and interact with them in a responsible manner.
- Vientiane: The capital of Laos, Vientiane, offers a unique cultural experience. You can visit Buddhist temples, including the famous That Luang, and explore the Patuxai, an impressive Laotian triumphal arch. Don't forget to sample the local cuisine in the city's restaurants.
When to go on a cruise in Laos?
The climate in Laos is tropical, with high temperatures throughout the year, reaching their peak from March to May. It is recommended that you choose the dry season, which runs from November to April, for your cruise. During this period, the temperatures are milder and the days are sunny, offering ideal conditions for exploring the Mekong and its surroundings. The rainy season, which lasts from May to October, is the hottest and most humid, with sometimes heavier rainfall. It is less suitable for a cruise in Laos but can allow you to enjoy a unique experience with fewer tourists.
Here is an average of the temperatures encountered in recent years:
| Temperatures | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | June | July | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Min. air temperature (°C) | 18° | 19° | 22° | 24° | 25° | 25° | 25° | 25° | 24° | 23° | 20° | 18° |
| Air max (°C) | 29° | 31° | 33° | 35° | 33° | 32° | 32° | 31° | 31° | 31° | 30° | 29° |
Useful information for your trip to Laos
What is the currency used in Laos?
The official currency in Laos isthe kip. However, the currency used on board is the US dollar, and in the tourist areas of these countries, it is widely accepted and often preferred for transactions. Always have some cash on you for the various transactions in the local markets and tips for the crew.
What language is spoken in Laos?
The official language of the country is Lao. However, there is no need to worry because English is widely spoken on board the cruise ship and in the tourist areas of these countries.
Do I need a visa to go on a cruise in Laos?
French travelers require a visa to travel to Laos and the passport must be valid for at least six months after the date of departure from Laos. Applications can be made through our partners, online or directly upon arrival in Laos. Visa fees cost between 30 and 45 USD for a single-entry visa.
Are there any health requirements or recommended vaccinations before leaving?
Although there are no compulsory vaccination requirements for travel in the countries through which the Mekong flows, it is advisable to be up to date with vaccinations (notably typhoid, hepatitis A and B, and tetanus). We advise you to consult your doctor before departure to find out what precautions to take, particularly against malaria, which is present in the region. "Tropical zone" mosquito repellents are recommended.
How do I book a cruise in Laos?
To book your cruise in Laos, you can make a booking request from our website. Once we have received your request, an advisor will contact you by telephone to understand your plans (duration, budget and activities). They will then send you cruise suggestions by email. Once you have found the cruise you want, you can pay a deposit in your customer area to confirm the booking and secure the cabin.