Upper Mekong River

Group members from across Canada gather in Toronto or Vancouver on Wednesday evening, then fly to Bangkok, losing a day en route.

Upon arrival at the Bangkok airport, we will be met by a local representative and transferred to our hotel. The rest of the day is free until we gather for our welcome dinner.

Chatrium Hotel Riverside (3 nights)

In the morning, we visit Bangkok's Chinatown, a renowned culinary hotspot. After wandering through the area, we enjoy a traditional Yum Cha (light lunch) consisting of tea and dim sum. Next, our journey takes us on a boat tour through Bangkok's klongs (canals), along the Chao Phraya River to experience the city's diverse neighbourhoods. We will make a stop at the Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun), whose towering spire has become an iconic symbol of Bangkok.  Tonight, we will participate in a Thai cooking class. Remember to pay attention, as the dishes we prepare will be our dinner.

Fly to Vientiane, then savour lunch at a local restaurant before boarding our Mekong River cruise. After a guided tour of Vientiane's highlights, we will return to the ship for a welcome reception and dinner.

rv Mekong Pearl (10 nights)

Unwind on deck as our boutique cruiser glides up the Mekong River, the jungled landscapes and rural vistas unfolding before us. We will anchor at a tranquil location for a serene night's stay.

Venturing further north, the landscape transforms, with rolling green hills and ancient rock formations rising gently from the earth. The Mekong River winds its way through the terrain, alternating between rapid currents and peaceful stretches. Its mighty power adds a genuine sense of adventure to our cruise. We will briefly stop in the town of Salakham during the day, then continue our journey north for the night.

We stop upstream at the small farming village of Ban Don Saingam, where you can join a 30-minute trek to explore a secluded cave rarely visited by travellers. Here, the pristine natural landscape remains untouched except for the occasional views of tiny villages and local cattle roaming free.

Enjoy breakfast on board while taking in the stunning views. Keep an eye out for local fishermen along the shore and do not miss the impressive Xayabouri Dam, the largest hydroelectric power plant in Laos. In the afternoon, we will have the chance to meet the inhabitants of a small hill tribe village.     

We start the day with a guided tour of Kuang Si Falls, one of Laos' most stunning waterfalls. Later, we reach Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former royal capital. In the evening, we hike up Mount Phou Si for panoramic views of the Mekong and Khan Rivers, along with the surrounding mountains. Afterwards, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Mekong promenade and visit the colorful night market of the local Hmong minority.     

Early risers can witness the traditional morning alms ritual where hundreds of monks collect their daily sustenance. Following breakfast on board, our guided city tour includes the National Museum in the former royal palace and a visit to a local handicraft village. After lunch, our exploration of Luang Prabang's charms continues. In the evening, enjoy the town’s diverse culinary offerings, from quaint eateries to riverside dining along the Mekong.

In the morning our cruise ship will stop at the famous Pak Ou Caves, which house thousands of Buddha statues. You can take a short trek through the forest to a small riverside village and visit its distillery. Alternatively, if you prefer, you can reach the village by boat. You might even have the chance to see working elephants nearby.

As our journey progresses, the river’s hustle fades, revealing breathtaking landscapes all around us. Whether on deck, in your cozy cabin, or the lounge, find tranquility bathed in the warmth of the sun.

Unwind on deck taking in the peaceful northern Laos scenery, a perfect respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life back home. As we glide past verdant hills, we start heading towards the small village of Pak Tha. You can join a long-tail boat excursion on the Namtha River, which takes you to a nearby Khmu village, whose school has been supported by donations from Mekong River Cruises’ guests for many years. End the day with Mekong River Cruises’ famous riverside barbecue dinner in a beautiful riverside location.   

Enjoy our final onboard breakfast before disembarking in Huay Xai. After visiting a temple and a traditional market, we will cross the Thailand–Laos border at Friendship Bridge before transferring to our local hotel in Chiang Rai.

The Riverie by Katathani (3 nights)

Today's sightseeing includes a cruise along the Kok River, a tricycle ride through the city, a visit to Boon Rawd Farm, one of the largest tea producers in Thailand, and visits to the Three Coloured Temples.

Winding through Doi Tung, we catch glimpses into the lives of hill tribe villagers. En route, enjoy spectacular scenery of farming terraces and admire the Palace of the Princess Mother. Located at the top is the Wat Phra That Doi Tung temple, offering magnificent views of the rice fields below. Continuing to the Golden Triangle, where Laos, Myanmar, and Thailand meet along the Mekong River. Here, we will visit the Hall of Opium museum to explore the complex 5,000-year history of opium.    

After a relaxed morning we transfer to the airport for our flight to Bangkok. Upon arrival, we check into our airport hotel for an overnight stay.

Novotel Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel (1 night)

All too soon, our journey has come to an end, and we catch our return flights back home.