Mekong River Cruise

Why take a river cruise on the Mekong?

Sailing on the Mekong is undoubtedly the best way to discover the hidden treasures of Southeast Asia. This river, which flows through Vietnam and Cambodia in particular, offers you authentic access to the many wonders of the region. From rice paddies to ancient temples, via the floating markets, each stopover is an invitation to explore. Whether you are alone, with your partner or with your family, this adventure is suitable for everyone, offering a delightful blend of culture, history and nature.

What do our cruises on the Mekong consist of?

Our river cruise packages on the Mekong

The cruises on the Mekong that we offer are all-inclusive cruises that allow you to discover many sites in a unique way. By choosing our package, you will board a boat with your own private cabin, while sharing the friendly atmosphere of the ship with other travelers. The professional and attentive crew will ensure that your stay is as pleasant as possible.

Depending on your preferences and your budget, we offer a wide range of cruises on the Mekong, with sailing itineraries that include stopovers to visit Vietnam and Cambodia, as you wish. Cruises range from 2 to 19 days with a wide range of prices, from USD1,000 to USD12,000 for two people, so you can find the cruise that suits you.

What type of boat is used to navigate the Mekong?

The Mekong is usually navigated on the side of the boat of traditional cruise ships, large motorboats that can accommodate around fifty passengers. Another type of cruise is on traditional sailing boats, which can accommodate between two and ten people. These cruises cover shorter routes and offer a more personalized and intimate experience. All these colonial-style boats are spacious and well appointed, offering luxurious cabins with private bathrooms and pulpits and an upper deck with a bar to make the most of the sailing.

What activities are on offer during our cruises on the Mekong?

During the cruise, in addition to the sailing, daily activities are planned to immerse you in the culture of the region. These activities include cultural visits such as visits to temples, cities and local markets. But unique experiences are also included in different tours, such as cooking workshops, tea tastings, visits to rice workshops, tai chi classes or tuk tuk rides. These activities are all detailed in our cruise packages. French-speaking guides will be at your side for each visit. Between two stops, 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 river cruise on the Mekong cost?

For 2 people, the price of a cabin can vary depending on the boat, the period chosen and the cabin selected. Here is a dead reckoning of the price based on the duration of your cruise for a classic double cabin:

The price includes: hotels, internal flights, transfers, meals and activities mentioned in the program, the service of local guides and repatriation insurance.

The price does not include: visa fees, cancellation insurance and luggage insurance, tips for the crew (allow $5/day/passenger as a guideline) and meals and activities not mentioned in the program.

What are the must-sees on a cruise on the Mekong?

• Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon): This vibrant Vietnamese metropolis is a striking blend of modernity and colonial heritage. From its bustling markets to Notre-Dame Cathedral, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the country's evolution.
• Phnom Penh: The Cambodian capital combines ancient charm with modern renewal. Its glittering royal palace and poignant past, especially S-21 prison, tell the country's complex story.
• Hanoi: The capital of Vietnam is a treasure trove of history and culture. Its winding streets in the old quarter, teeming with shops, street stalls and street vendors, stand alongside French colonial buildings, ancient temples such as the Temple of Literature, and modern sites such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.

What is the best time to take a river cruise on the Mekong?

The best time for a cruise on the Mekong is from November to April, and particularly from November to February. It is during these months that the region enjoys the dry season, offering a mild climate, fewer floods and splendid flowering. By contrast, the rainy season, which lasts from May to October, is marked by the monsoon between April and September, resulting in heavier rainfall and sustained winds. But it can be interesting to take a cruise on the Mekong during this period, outside the tourist season, for a different experience.

The region has an average temperature of 33°C throughout the year, with the hottest months being between February and June. Note that conditions may vary depending on the region of Vietnam or Cambodia.

Here is an average of the temperatures encountered in the Mekong region in recent years:

Useful information for your cruise on the Mekong

What is the currency used in the Mekong region?

In Vietnam, the official currency is the Dong, while in Cambodia, the Riel is commonly used. However, in the tourist areas of these countries, the US dollar 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 the region?

In Vietnam, the main language spoken is Vietnamese, while in Cambodia, Khmer is predominant. However, there is no need to worry, as English and French are commonly spoken in the tourist areas of these countries.

Do I need a visa to take a cruise on the Mekong?

• Vietnam: French travelers are exempt from visa requirements for stays of up to 45 days. You will therefore not need one for a cruise. Visa required: Belgium / Switzerland.
• Cambodia: a visa is required to enter the country. The tourist visa on arrival is generally valid for 30 days and costs $30 for a period of one month. Visa applications can be made online or directly on arrival at the airport.

Are there any health requirements or recommended vaccinations before leaving?

Before setting off on a cruise on the Mekong, it is advisable to consult your doctor or a travel clinic for health recommendations. Although there are no compulsory vaccination requirements for traveling in the countries through which the Mekong flows, certain vaccinations such as those against typhoid fever and hepatitis A and B may be recommended. In addition, the Mekong flows through areas where malaria is present, so it is a good idea to take preventive measures such as anti-malarial drugs.

What clothes should I wear for a cruise on the Mekong?

Due to the tropical climate and to respect local traditions, it is advisable to wear light clothing but covering the shoulders and knees, especially when visiting temples.